Category: Entrepreneurs

5 TOP ITEMS YOUR SMALL BUSINESS NEEDS ON ITS CYBERSECURITY TO-DO LIST

Posted on by Franchise Strategist

No matter the size of your business, you can take practical steps to help defend against cyberattacks, which will save your company time, effort and money in the long term.

5 top items your small business needs on its cybersecurity to-do list

(BPT) – If you run a small to medium-sized business, you may think your risk of cyberattacks is slim to none. But just because your business is smaller and you have your data stored on-premises does not exempt you from risk. According to the Ninth Annual Cost of Cybercrime Study by Accenture, 43% of cyberattacks are now aimed at small businesses — but only 14% of those businesses are prepared to defend themselves. Since the pandemic, cybercrime has increased by 600%, according to Embroker.com. And the cost of cyberattacks — from business disruption and lost data to system downtime, damage to your company’s reputation and even legal liability — is higher than ever. Cyber defense needs to be a major component of your business strategy.

What can your business do to help prevent these attacks in the first place?

Types of cyberattacks

It helps to understand where cybercriminals are most likely to strike, which is at most companies’ biggest point of vulnerability — the human factor. The Ponemon Institute’s State of Cybersecurity Report has identified the most common types of cyberattacks on small businesses:

  • Social Engineering/Phishing (57%): This can take the form of an email that appears to be from a trusted source, like a co-worker or supervisor, asking for help and requesting you click a link or download something.
  • Compromised/Stolen Devices (33%): Devices without sufficient security safeguards in place can be vulnerable.
  • Credential Theft (30%): Hackers obtain usernames and passwords to access accounts. Having strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication to access accounts can help prevent unauthorized access.

Strategies to safeguard your business

No matter the size of your business, you can take practical steps to help defend against cyberattacks, which will save your company time, effort and money in the long term.

Here are 5 tactics that should be on your cyber defense checklist:

1. Educate your employees about security best practices

Make sure everyone in your business understands common cyberthreats, and is well trained on how to identify typical phishing and social engineering scams. In addition, help remote employees secure their home networks by offering training on setting up secure Wi-Fi.

2. Keep business and personal devices separate

Especially as many employees continue working remotely all or part of the time, reduce security risks by emphasizing the importance of everyone in your organization using only company devices for work purposes.

3. Beef up security measures for employee accounts and network access

Require only strong, unique passwords for employee access, as well as implementing multi-factor authentication practices for an extra layer of protection.

4. Get a unified software platform for security and patch management

Make sure your entire system is more secure by using a single, effective software platform that can manage identity, access and devices in the cloud — as well as managing security upgrades and patching. For example, JumpCloud offers IT admins at any business the ability to control and manage a wide variety of configurations with Zero Trust security to secure your organization.

JumpCloud provides an easy, frictionless solution for small to medium-sized business requirements to hedge against increasing cyberthreats, with several security features to help your business improve its security posture, including:

  • Multi-Factor Authentication
  • Single Sign-On
  • Device Management
  • Zero-Trust
  • Patch Management

Even better, JumpCloud lets customers use all premium features for free, for up to 10 users and 10 devices.

“Any business owner today needs to be aware of and take active measures to protect against cyberattacks,” said Benjamin Garrison, technical evangelist at JumpCloud. “For any size business, JumpCloud provides an effective solution, all in one place.”

5. Monitor for security breaches

In case of a cyberattack, your business will recover and overcome the loss much more quickly the earlier you can detect the problem. Set up a system for frequent monitoring of your network for any potential breaches, and keep working to defend against them with regular updates and trainings for all staff.

Don’t wait until a security breach happens to get serious about cyber defense. Being proactive about the security of your business will be well worth it to defend everything you’ve created.

JumpCloud gives IT admins a single cloud directory platform to secure all their users in any device environment, wherever work happens. Visit JumpCloud.com to learn more.

5 Digital Media and Entertainment Habits in 2022

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Photo by Brandpoint

5 Digital Media and Entertainment Habits in 2022
By Brandpoint

(BPT) – Consumers have more options for digital media entertainment than ever before, but what kind of content are they looking for, how are they finding it and how are they interacting with it? Each year, Deloitte – a global professional services organization – surveys consumers to answer these questions.

In its latest report, titled “2022 Digital Media Trends, 16th edition: Toward the metaverse,” Deloitte surveyed consumers globally and found there is a growing preference for more personalized, interactive, and social experiences, especially among younger generations. Below are five key findings that underscore this trend.

1. Consumers are tired of chasing content

Despite the sizable content budgets of streaming video on demand (SVOD) services, consumers are growing more frustrated with SVOD content discovery and subscription fees. SVOD services often require consumers to juggle multiple subscriptions at increasing costs. But on social media platforms, content discovers the user, offering free passive and interactive experiences with near-infinite streams of personalized content that are continuously refined.

2. SVOD services struggle to attract and retain subscribers

SVOD providers face greater pressure to attract and retain subscribers who have become savvier about chasing content and managing their subscription costs. The average churn rate (the rate at which consumers have cancelled, or both added and cancelled, a service during the past six months) in the United States remains consistent at 37% across all paid SVOD services. In the United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil, and Japan, the average overall churn rate is closer to 30%. In an effort to compete, consumers may find media companies diversifying their approach, offering ad-supported tiers and bundles, or pairing premium content with more immersive experiences.

3. Growing popularity of user-generated content

Short-form and user-generated social video feeds are incredibly engaging. Nearly half (46%) of U.S. consumers say they watch more user-generated content online than they did six months ago. Fifty percent (50%) also say they always end up spending more time watching user-generated content online than they had initially planned. This figure jumps to 70% among the youngest generation, Gen Z. About four in 10 (41%) U.S. consumers surveyed spend more time watching user-generated video content online than TV shows and movies on video streaming services, a sentiment that increases to about 60% among the younger generations (Millennials and Gen Zs).

4. Social media usage continues to rise across generations

In the U.S., 81% of social media users use social media services daily, and 59% use these services several times a day. Across all five countries surveyed, Gen Zs, Millennials, and Gen Xers are consistently more likely to say they use these services. Also, 70% of U.S. respondents say they follow an influencer online, and more than half of U.S. Gen Zs and Millennials surveyed say online personalities influence their buying decisions.

Social media platforms are also affecting consumer spending habits. About 53% of U.S. respondents and around 40% in the U.K., Germany, and Japan say they see ads on social media for products or services they were searching for, a figure that jumps to 72% in Brazil.

5. Younger consumers prioritize interactive experiences

Younger generations who have grown up with smartphones, social media, and video games prefer entertainment experiences that are more social and interactive. User-generated social media streams and social video games may meet their needs better than streaming video.

According to the report, Gen Z respondents prefer playing video games as their favorite entertainment activity in all five countries. In the U.S., Gen Z and Millennial gamers play the most, logging an average of 11 and 13 hours per week, respectively.

Looking to the future

As streaming video audiences juggle more subscriptions and higher costs to chase entertainment, social media is free and available anywhere, anytime.

Deloitte’s report suggests that to prepare for the next generation of digital entertainment, streaming video companies should think hard about how people socialize around entertainment. Will younger generations and the generations to follow them dismiss entertainment that isn’t social or interactive in some way? Or will the passive and somewhat isolated experience of streaming video always offer a meaningful form of entertainment? Only time will tell.

To learn more about the 2022 Digital Media Trends, 16th edition: Toward the metaverse survey, visit Digital Media Trends for the full report.

Trends Affecting The Restaurant Industry In 2022

Posted on by Franchise Strategist

Photo by Alex Haney on Unsplash

According to the National Restaurant Association, Wholesale food costs were up 7.9 percent in 2021, and hourly labor costs were up 8.6 percent for the year.

Trends Affecting The Restaurant Industry In 2022
By Gary Occhiogrosso

Like many industries, COVID 19 greatly affected the restaurant industry. Since it was unable to operate normally for an extended period due to the lockdown and other restrictions imposed by the government, the industry faced a significant setback in 2020 that, for many, continued into 2021.

Lasting Restaurant Industry Trends in 2022
As we are coming out of the most significant pandemic in generations, restaurant owners still face many challenges operating their businesses. That said, I believe the most effective & positive trend in the industry is how restaurants of all sizes now embrace technology. Much of the technology, such as apps, third-party ordering, and direct online ordering, has been used for several years. Still, it took Covid 19 to force the industry to exploit its use to a fuller extent. This adaptability of technology is paving the way for recovery and growth in 2022. By the end of 2022, the food industry expects to reach $899 billion in sales.

Home Delivery System
Another trend carrying into 2022 is restaurant delivery. Food delivery services became immensely important but brought unique challenges. Trust of the food handling process, delivery methods, and demand for contactless transactions became front and center for those using restaurants for home delivery. Remembering that more than 900,000 people died in the U.S. makes the ongoing situation a long-term consideration for food service workers, field workers, and other employees related to the field.

Labor Shortage
From servers to cooks, and other restaurant workers to agriculture and the meatpacking production workforce, labor shortages still significantly affect the industry and the cost associated with running a restaurant—the number of employees willing to work is such a critical situation that many restaurants are forced to operate with shorter hours and fewer days. In addition, continuing trucker shortages and delays in delivery have created congestion in restaurants’ delivery processes, causing some restaurants to modify their menu.

Supply Chain and Food Supply
Supply chain issues also raised multiple problems for restaurant owners, from fresh produce to meats to paper products such as coffee cups, straws, and takeaway containers. As a result, restaurant owners continue to experience shortages and increasing prices as we approach the second quarter of 2022.

Taylor Morabito, the owner of New York’s famed Friend of a Farmer restaurant, said, “While labor shortages have begun to improve, I think the biggest challenge the industry currently faces is the drastic increase in food cost, specifically within the world of poultry, meat & fish.

Products that used to cost $11 or $12 a pound have doubled &, in some cases, nearly tripled in price. Unfortunately, with the current supply chain issues & rising inflation, I believe that restaurant owners & management will be navigating around this particular challenge for quite some time.”

According to the National Restaurant Association, Wholesale food costs were up 7.9 percent in 2021, and hourly labor costs were up 8.6 percent for the year.

“Vaccinated Only” Restrictions Lifted
The “No Vax, No Entry” restrictions are changing in major cities like New York. The easing of regulations resulting from vaccinations worldwide and people following social protocols has finally started to move the restaurant business towards the pre-pandemic normal.

Over 68% of the American population has received complete vaccination. The fact is; the vaccinations led the government to lift restrictions allowing people to sit and enjoy meals in a pre-pandemic style.

Digital Work Models
The past two years have completely changed the way people think and function. The pandemic has also altered people’s expectations of the restaurant business. With contactless payment methods and online orders, people have become more dependent on technology than before. To survive during the pandemic and shutdowns, restaurants offered enhanced discounts as many customers shifted to online or app ordering. However, in 2022, many customers still expect restaurants to continue discounting, extra reward incentives, and other programs to connect to their favorite eateries.

Digitalization has helped all types of industries in different ways. Like other industries, the food industry gained numerous benefits by shifting to a digital working model. It helped them reduce costs and increase performance. With restaurant workers quitting jobs in significant numbers and business owners struggling to retain them, digital technology became helpful with recruiting, retention, and reducing the number of employees required to service the guest.

Regarding the data-driven trends in the industry, Fred Kirvan, the founder of Kirvan Consulting, a New Jersey based restaurant consulting firm, stated, “Now more than ever, it’s vital that you analyze the data available to ensure your business is fully optimized. As an example, valuable information exists within your point of sale to help you determine what changes could streamline your menu offerings. Streamlining your menu offering could result in improved profitability, the need for less staff, and fewer items from your distributor, so you’re using more of what you do use. But, so often, I find that business owners aren’t using the data to drive the decisions that could help them navigate these challenging times.”

The Restaurant Industry Impacts America’s GDP
Since the restaurant industry contributes significantly to America’s economy, one cannot ignore its difficulties for the past two years. Unfortunately, the food industry is still working to recover the losses. Still, unless there is a recurrence of Covid, restaurant sales in 2022 are trending in a very positive direction.

The United States Census report stated that the ongoing pandemic had damaged the sales of restaurants and bars up to $280 billion. Even though the restaurants, eateries, and bars managed to follow all protocols, the various mandates negatively impacted the entire food industry’s economy. Therefore, restaurateurs look to 2022 as the turnaround year.

Conclusion
Technology became a crucial answer in addressing issues restaurants faced during the pandemic. The tech-savviest operators shifted their menu online and increased delivery, which allowed them to stay open. However, to continue the positive trend in 2022, we need to address inflation, supply chain, and labor issues. Overall the first quarter of 2022 is proving to trend in the right direction, demonstrating the resiliency of our industry.

Sources:

GLOBAL FRANCHISE
Key takeaways from the 2022 State of the Restaurant Industry report | Global Franchise

RESTAURANT DIVE
7 restaurant trends that will define 2022

WORLDOMETERS
United States

Franchisors Shouldn’t Confuse Franchisee Validation with Endorsement

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Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

Successful franchisee validation is so important, it’s common for most franchisor development staff to be aware who their best franchise validators are. Franchisor staff might even recommend which franchisees to contact, because some franchisees don’t want to be bothered while others are flattered to offer their feedback.

By Ed Teixeira

It’s an established fact that to develop a franchise system the franchisor needs to have franchisees who will validate the value of the franchise, including franchisor services, support and quality of the franchise program.

Most of the literature that offers advice to prospective franchisees states that the most valuable source of information on a franchise system is from existing franchisees. In fact, it’s often said that franchisees help sell new franchises as much as franchise development staff and brokers.

Successful franchisee validation is so important, it’s common for most franchisor development staff to be aware who their best franchise validators are. Franchisor staff might even recommend which franchisees to contact, because some franchisees don’t want to be bothered while others are flattered to offer their feedback. I recall a franchisee who was often critical of our franchise support, yet surprisingly was one of top franchise program validators.

It’s important to recognize the difference between franchisee validation and using franchisees to endorse the franchise brand. When a franchisor utilizes existing franchisees in ads or social media to endorse and promote the franchise brand there can be risks. For example, I recall an incident when one of the franchisees in our franchise system helped to obtain a prized national account contract. For his efforts, he was granted a financial benefit from the specific National Account revenues. However, as a further show of appreciation, the franchisor President had the franchisee thanked in a marketing piece and on the franchise web site. A few months later, a dispute led the same franchisee to file a lawsuit against us. It’s one lesson I’ll never forget.

Although franchisors may utilize their franchisees to market its products or services to customers, its different from having their franchisees actively promote and endorse its franchise opportunity.

When it comes to franchisee validations and endorsements, a franchisor should:

Expect franchise candidates to contact a franchisee in an ad for validation. This means that franchisee must remain satisfied with the franchise and franchisor support and services.
When using a franchisee for an endorsement avoid statements that may represent an earnings claim. For example, ‘I’ve made lots of income from this franchise.”
Be wary of how franchisee advertising funds are being used. Using ad funds that single out certain franchisees could cause other franchisees to be upset by publicizing certain franchisees.
In franchise locations visited by customers who could become prospective franchisees the franchisor should promote the franchise opportunity by having tri-fold brochures describing the franchise opportunity and signage to announce the business is franchised.
When recruiting franchise candidates be sure to recognize the difference between positive franchise program validation and using existing franchisees to endorse and promote the franchise opportunity. In the case of franchisee endorsements, there is always the possibility that the franchisee if disgruntled, could be embarrassing to the franchise program.

About the Author: Ed Teixeira
Ed Teixeira is a recognized franchise expert with over 35 years experience in the franchise industry. He has served as a corporate executive for franchise firms in the retail, manufacturing, healthcare and technology industries and was a franchisee of a multi-million dollar home healthcare franchise. Ed is the author of Franchising From the Inside Out and The Franchise Buyers Manual. He has participated in the CEO Magazine Roundtable Meetings with business leaders from around the country and spoke at a number of venues including the International Franchise Expo and the Chinese Franchise Association in Shanghai, China. Over the course of his career, Ed has been involved with over 1,000 franchise locations and launched franchise concepts from existing business models. Ed can be contacted at 631-246-5782 or [email protected].

Franchisor Focus: The Franchise Development Process Must Be an Unbroken Chain

Posted on by Franchise Strategist

A successful franchise development process can be compared to a chain that consists of links that hold a sprocket or wheel together while they run. If one link in the chain is broken it can stop them from running like the franchise development process being interrupted.

Franchisor Focus: The Franchise Development Process Must Be an Unbroken Chain
By Ed Teixeira

When it comes to growing a franchise network, there are fundamental steps that every franchisor should have in place if they expect to grow their system with qualified franchisees.

Successful lead generation and an effective franchise development team are only part of the requirements needed to achieve system growth, along with components needed to attain positive franchise system growth. These other elements in the franchise development process in combination with lead generation and an effective franchise development team can be compared to links in a chain.

A successful franchise development process can be compared to a chain that consists of links that hold a sprocket or wheel together while they run. If one link in the chain is broken it can stop them from running like the franchise development process being interrupted.


(Click to enlarge diagram)

Franchise development chain diagram
The links in the franchise development chain:

1. Profitable franchisees. If franchisees aren’t profitable, it will be difficult for prospective franchisees to obtain positive validation. Even if the franchisor can have positive franchise growth unless the majority of franchisees are profitable it will only be a matter of time before the franchise prospect realizes the situation.

2. Positive franchisee satisfaction. The franchisor must must be aware of its franchisee satisfaction levels. Using their satisfaction surveys and obtaining personal feedback its essential that franchisors know how satisfied their franchisees are with their franchise. If there is negative feedback regarding franchisor support or other issues, they should be corrected ASAP.

3. Effective franchise development team. Whether the franchisor has in-house franchise development staff, uses brokers or employs a combination of both the development team must be experienced and effective. This requires that the results of the franchise development team are competent and achieve results.

4. Positive system growth. The franchisor should be achieving either positive franchise system growth or at least is not losing franchisees except in the case of a startup franchise. Prospective franchisees can be concerned when a franchisor has negative franchise growth or no growth at all.

5. Productive lead generation. It’s necessary that the franchisor is generating sufficient franchise leads for the franchisor team to work. Depending upon the franchise It can take 100 to 200 franchise leads to complete a franchise transaction. Without enough franchise inquiries or leads it can be difficult to recruit qualified franchise candidates.

6. Adhere to franchise qualification standards. Every franchise prospect should be properly qualified and able to meet the standards of the franchisee profile. Without adhering to the proper standards for qualifying its franchise leads there is a risk of granting a franchise to a poorly qualified individual.

7. Maintain Franchisee Engagement. When a qualified franchise candidate is found it is important that the franchisor representative maintain close contact with the candidate and respond to their concerns and questions. When engagement is not maintained the franchise candidate can lose interest in the franchise opportunity.

The franchise development process is akin to links in a chain if one link is broken the chain stops working. When franchisors follow the proper franchise development process it can lead to successful franchise system growth however, when one step in the process is not followed it can result in a lack of franchise growth.

About the Author:
Ed Teixeira is a recognized franchise expert with over 35 years experience in the franchise industry. He has served as a corporate executive for franchise firms in the retail, manufacturing, healthcare and technology industries and was a franchisee of a multi-million dollar home healthcare franchise. Ed is the author of Franchising From the Inside Out and The Franchise Buyers Manual. He has participated in the CEO Magazine Roundtable Meetings with business leaders from around the country and spoke at a number of venues including the International Franchise Expo and the Chinese Franchise Association in Shanghai, China. Over the course of his career, Ed has been involved with over 1,000 franchise locations and launched franchise concepts from existing business models. Ed can be contacted at 631-246-5782 or [email protected].

Guests Are Back: How The Restaurant Industry Has Changed Forever – And For Good

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The guests are back: 77% of U.S. consumers in Lightspeed’s poll are dining out at least once a month or more, with 40% dining out more than two to four times a week, and 30% saying they are dining out more than they were before COVID, taking advantage of what they’ve missed.

Guests are back: How the restaurant industry has changed forever – and for good

(BPT) – In this new era of hospitality, technology is driving customer retention, automation and efficient food costing, which have all become key to profitability. The pandemic forced restaurants to adapt to not only a new, leaner business model but new consumer behavior as well. With customers opting for alternatives to dine-in, restaurants adapted to build solutions to offer takeout, delivery and curbside pickup options. Meanwhile, restaurants are struggling with staffing challenges, government mandates and dynamic reopening in different regions.

In a recent Lightspeed and OnePoll survey of Global hospitality merchants, 90% feel that technology has helped their business survive the last two years, and 92% feel their business is more efficient today than it was one year ago. Peter Dougherty, GM, Lightspeed Hospitality, offers three ways tech is reshaping the hospitality industry:

1) Once seen as a job killer, automation will save an understaffed industry.

In a recent JobList survey of 13,000 hospitality employees, nearly half said they had left their job for good, and a third said they were done with the industry. This aligns with Lightspeed’s U.S. research which shows 55% of operators struggling to retain staff.

Amid this shortage, restaurant operators and customers are seeing the value in automation technology. This means saving time by automating functions like taking orders or processing inventory with a solution like Lightspeed Restaurant. Lightspeed found that 67% of hospitality merchants in the U.S. see more automation as the best way to combat employee turnover, 50% plan to utilize some form of automation technology within the next two to three years, and another 50% also see a future with more flexibility for hospitality employees.

2) Guests’ behavior drives technology, but also staff shortages.

The guests are back: 77% of U.S. consumers in Lightspeed’s poll are dining out at least once a month or more, with 40% dining out more than two to four times a week, and 30% saying they are dining out more than they were before COVID, taking advantage of what they’ve missed.

QR codes, once seen as outdated tech, were one of the big winners of distanced dining. And with restaurants and bars more short-staffed than ever, guests are suddenly more comfortable ordering through a QR code while a smaller floor staff maintain a level of guest service. When it comes to U.S. consumers dining out, ordering through a QR code (21%) or contactless payments (31%) made them feel “safer.”

But this rabid return has had its consequences: 62% of hospitality professionals in the U.S. report that guests have been more demanding, and 40% said they were tipping worse. 48% of U.S. merchants say “more patience and empathy” from guests would help them retain staff.

3) Technology helps merchants diversify their business.

The pandemic forced a tremendous amount of change in the hospitality industry, with 90% of U.S. merchants surveyed noting they feel that technology has helped their business survive the last two years.

When asked what technology had the biggest positive impact on their business, nearly half of merchants (47%) noted online ordering; a habit once relegated to urban millennials that became a necessity during COVID-19. Lightspeed’s survey found that 37% of U.S. merchants have brought their online ordering technology in-house to avoid third-party fees, and 60% say guests are still ordering more takeout than before COVID.

Looking ahead to the future, 78% of the merchants surveyed see online ordering technology vastly improving in the next two to three years, which will likely be a time of consolidation and automation for the industry, as stand-alone players will struggle to compete with larger integrated solutions.

3 Trends Poised For Growth In 2022 And The Tech Startups Helping To Fuel Them

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3 trends poised for growth in 2022 and the tech startups helping to fuel them

(BPT) – The past year has brought a flurry of changes for many people. Maybe you’ve embraced online shopping and want to start to incorporate meal planning into that experience. Perhaps you’ve gotten into selling things from the comfort of your home or you’re now working remotely with people around the world.

Digital solutions meet modern needs so you can do these types of things successfully, whether you’re a consumer or an entrepreneur. Three of the top digital trends of 2022 showcase the growth of technology solutions by innovative startups focused on making life better.

Trend 1: Simplified online grocery shopping

The food marketplace is an evolving space with two trends poised for continued growth: online grocery shopping and meal planning. Grocery Shopii is the solution for shoppers who want to integrate meal planning into a customized online shopping experience.

Today, meal solutions are helping consumers tackle meal fatigue and save time. Not only are Shopii recipes curated by top bloggers, they’re hyper-personalized to each client’s preferences, offering suggestions that align with existing shopping habits. Plus, Grocery Shopii utilizes machine learning to expedite meal planning and online grocery shopping to 5 minutes or less.

Grocery Shopii is free for shoppers and helps grocers provide a tailored experience, which in turn builds customer loyalty. Learn more at GroceryShopii.com.

Trend 2: Interactive fashion resale marketplace

What people choose to wear defines who they are, and today more people than ever want to stand out in their own unique way. That’s why interest in vintage clothing, upcycled fashion, and handmade accessories is soaring, and Galaxy is connecting passionate sellers with engaged buyers.

Galaxy is the first platform of its kind to fuse live shopping and fashion resale, creating a truly social, entertainment-geared shopping experience with sustainable fashion at its core. With Galaxy, shoppers can have conversations while buying, allowing them to make more informed decisions and understand the stories behind the pieces they’re browsing.

Galaxy enables the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs to find and build their community, plus, unlike other platforms, takes no commission or fees. Visit Galaxy.Live for more information.

Trend 3: Symbiotic solutions to labor needs and economic empowerment

The labor shortage crisis, the Great Resignation, diversity challenges — job economy topics continue to capture headlines. Companies of all sizes are struggling to fill roles with quality candidates who meet their needs.

Meaningful Gigs is one solution that solves many issues that companies are facing today. This tech-packed platform connects skilled African designers with companies seeking high-quality digital design work. Their vision is to create 100,000 remote skilled jobs in Africa by 2028.

Meaningful Gigs provides companies with a way to tap into global diversity while also delivering critical design solutions for their businesses for creative, product and marketing teams. By supplying people in Africa with skilled jobs, the company focuses on continuous economic empowerment and socioeconomic advancement. Discover more at MeaningfulGigs.com.

2022 is sure to be a year of continued change as people increasingly rely on digital solutions. Explore these trends to see how they impact your life, and consider new technologies to meet your needs.

HOW TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN EMPLOYEES AS WE EXIT THE PANDEMIC

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Some of the causes of the great employment disruption of 2021 are beyond the influence of employers. However, there are a number of initiatives that can be implemented by employers to retain employees and attract those who are looking for a change in what they do. So, how do you retain and attract employees? 

HOW TO ATTRACT AND RETAIN EMPLOYEES AS WE EXIT THE PANDEMIC
by Stan Silverman
Article originally published in the Philadelphia Business Journal on November 15, 2021.

Due to the effects of the pandemic, 2021 will be known as a year of immense employment disruption. This is especially acute in the restaurant, hospitality and other service industries, where employees now have higher-paying employment alternatives. 
The cause of the Great Resignation is not limited to dissatisfaction with pay. Many employees who are nearing retirement have decided to leave the workforce earlier than they had planned. Other employees have reevaluated their lives and decided what they were doing was not for them. 

Some employees are burned out dealing with hostile customers and working to meet pent-up demand. Others have left the workforce because they cannot afford childcare. There are those who point to governmental assistance as the reason people are not working, but that assistance ended in September.

Some of the causes of the great employment disruption of 2021 are beyond the influence of employers. However, there are a number of initiatives that can be implemented by employers to retain employees and attract those who are looking for a change in what they do. So, how do you retain and attract employees? 

Employees come before customers

In my columns for the Philadelphia Business Journal, I have emphasized the importance of delivering a great customer/client experience as a way to become the preferred provider in the marketplace. It’s your employees who deliver a great customer/client experience. 

Quoting Sir Richard Branson, co-founder of Virgin Group, “Clients do not come first. Employees come first. If you take care of your employees, they will take care of the clients.” Treat your employees well. They will help you become a preferred employer.
Nurture a culture in which your employees develop a sense of ownership in what they do. Listen to their ideas. Value their contributions. Never micromanage. Set expectations, empower them and cut them loose to do their thing. 

Compensate employees so your company is an attractive employment alternative

For years, many have advocated raising the federal minimum wage to $15/hour, with little success. Today, many businesses need to pay $20/hour or more to attract employees. Why? Employees have alternative employment opportunities not only within the same industry, but also within other industries that are rapidly growing. For example, an employee working at a restaurant can quit and go to work for Amazon instead. Pay employees competitively with their alternatives to keep them and attract others.
Will increasing the compensation of employees require companies to raise prices? Yes. The economy will adjust as it did after the dramatic increase in oil prices during the 1970s. 

Differentiate your company and its culture 

Just as you differentiate your company so customers/clients want to buy from you instead of your competition, differentiate your company so employees want to work for you rather than their alternatives. 
Treat all employees as important to your success. Show your appreciation for what they do. Where practical, depending on the job, institute a hybrid model, giving them flexibility to work remotely or at the office. There are companies that have been operating 100% virtually with great effectiveness for many years without adversely impacting employee collaboration. Saved commuting time is spent working on business issues, as well as taking care of personal matters, which reduces employee stress and increases morale.

Differentiate your company from others. Treat your employees as you would like to be treated. Make it part of your brand. Your reputation will attract the employees you need to run your business. 

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About the Author
Stan Silverman is founder and CEO of Silverman Leadership and author of “Be Different! The Key to Business and Career Success.” He is also a speaker, advisor and widely read nationally syndicated columnist on leadership, entrepreneurship and corporate governance. He can be reached at [email protected].

HOW BUSINESS AND CONSUMERS CAN STAY SAFE DURING THE ONLINE HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON

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Doing holiday shopping or making financial transactions when a device is on a public network can be risking identity theft.How are companies safeguarding consumers from identity theft and other forms of fraud? With a thoughtful approach that combines forward thinking with cutting-edge technology.

How businesses and consumers can stay safe during the online holiday shopping season
COURTESY OF BRAND POINT

(BPT) – The 2021 holiday shopping season is bound to break records. The National Retail Federation predicts an increase in sales between 8.5-10.5% over last year, and a record 87% of shoppers plan to shop online, according to PYMNTS.com. That’s an increase of 13% in online holiday shopping compared to last year.

In fact, approximately 263 million people in the U.S. are currently online shoppers. This dramatic growth in online shopping, especially over the holidays, brings with it increasing concerns about keeping accounts safe and secure from fraud — both for consumers and for the companies where they do their shopping. More than four out of ten (42%) consumers expressed concerns about security when shopping online, according to recent reports.

According to Juniper Research, retailers could lose over $20 billion in 2021 due to online fraud, which includes identity theft, illegal access to online accounts, using forged or stolen credit cards, SIM card theft and more.

Customers and companies can play an important role in protecting themselves from fraud over the busy holiday shopping season.

How customers can help defend their accounts from fraud

From the customer point of view, here are three things that can help keep accounts safer while shopping online:

1. Be password smart. Using stronger passwords, such as phrases, and making sure each password is unique for each account will improve security. A password manager is a good way to beef up security, as it generates stronger, unique passwords and keeps track of them.

2. Shop with trusted vendors. Buying from familiar retailers is usually safer, as is going straight to the website, and avoiding clicking on links from ads on social media or random emails. This comes down to KYB (“Know Your Business”): Customers need to ensure that the website where they do their shopping is secure. Does the web address begin with “https”? Are user authentication protocols in place, and do they offer secure checkout?

3. Stick with secure networks. Doing holiday shopping or making financial transactions when a device is on a public network can be risking identity theft.

How are companies safeguarding consumers from identity theft and other forms of fraud? With a thoughtful approach that combines forward thinking with cutting-edge technology.

How companies are working behind the scenes to help protect consumers

Companies today take identity theft and fraud seriously, as it affects their bottom line — and jeopardizes their relationships with customers. Fortunately, technology is constantly advancing to help safeguard against fraud and stay one step ahead of the criminals. This is more crucial than ever when holiday shopping online is at an all-time high, and online fraud and identity theft are, too.

“Protecting companies and customers against predatory behavior is increasingly difficult, as online fraudsters continue evolving and adapting,” said John Troutman, director, Digital Identity Expert Team at TeleSign. “Just as fraud attempts become more complex, protection for any business must keep up with that complexity. We use multiple approaches, tailored to each client, to find the most effective, up-to-date solutions.”

Here are three ways companies use innovative technology to guard against theft and fraud:

1. Two-factor authentication

Companies and financial institutions improve security by adding another step to verify customer identities. With two-factor authentication, the business sends a single-use authentication code to a customer’s email, phone (voice) or text (SMS).

However, even two-factor authentication has one area of vulnerability: Identity thieves trying to access an account could enter their own phone number to obtain the authentication code, or in some cases, can even swap out the SIM card on a customer’s cell phone.

Fortunately, TeleSign, an authority on fraud protection and safe e-commerce practices, helps corporations guard against these and other threats with products and services to help them evaluate customer behavior and detect signs of fraud.

For example, behavioral attribute insights determined using TeleSign’s Score product can identify safe and unsafe activities. This technology helps companies “see” into network actions to determine the answers to these questions:

  • Is the text behavior abnormal?
  • Is abnormal activity happening at off hours?
  • Are numbers calling or texting a customer from unusual area codes?
  • Is a customer’s number being used for malicious purposes?

These insights help detect unusual use of a cell phone to let companies know that there’s a problem. This high-level analysis helps keep customers safer, and works to avoid account takeovers and fraudulent activities.

TeleSign can also help determine the status of a customer’s phone number to see if it is active, and can do a recent SIM card check to see if a SIM card was swapped.

2. Knowing their customers

With millions of transactions being conducted over a busy holiday shopping season, how does a company know their customers well enough to detect fraudulent activity on their accounts? They need to use Know Your Customer (KYC), an approach which relies on A.I. and machine learning to accurately assess patterns in behavior — and detect changes in those patterns, which could signal fraud or identity theft.

TeleSign uses advanced Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to help companies know their customers better. APIs deliver user verification, data insights and communications to help companies prevent account takeovers, support company ecosystems inside and out, minimize fraudulent transactions and securely verify customer phone numbers.

3. Companies need to leverage the best possible support for effective fraud prevention solutions

TeleSign’s technology uses complete in-depth data analysis to identify and prevent possible breaches, helping businesses set up and prepare fraud prevention solutions to create a frictionless, E2E customer journey. TeleSign’s solutions are trusted by some of the world’s largest platforms, including Citrix, Skype, Electronic Arts (EA), ByteDance and Salesforce.

To learn more about how companies can protect their holiday shoppers from fraud and identity theft, visit TeleSign.com.

THAT 1 PAINTER CONTINUES TO GROW AT AN INDUSTRY RECORD PACE

Posted on by Franchise Strategist

His desire to lift his community up merged with That 1 Painter’s vision for giving: “My goal is to create jobs for the people around me, so when I read the statement Steven gave about Paint It Forward, I liked the idea of giving back to the community in that way.”

That 1 Painter Signs Franchisees in Houston, San Antonio & Las Vegas
By That 1 Painter

That 1 Painter has officially signed three more franchisees, bringing its total to five signed franchisees in their first four months of launching, paving the way for upcoming locations in Houston, San Antonio, and Las Vegas.

These franchisees aren’t shying away from big goals. Motivated by the challenge of growing with a new enterprise, they’re looking forward to seeing That 1 Painter’s proven systems play out in their hometowns to offer jobs to their communities and offer resources to those in need.

That 1 Painter Signs Three More Franchisees
At That 1 Painter, we work hard to build a culture in which everyone thrives because everyone lends a helping hand.

We Show You How To Build Your Team to Build Your Business
For Houston’s Donald Nguyen, knowing this local business thrives in a competitive market is what pulled him to T1P: “I looked at a few of the competitors and liked that That 1 Painter is local. Because That 1 Painter is a new franchise company, the market is more open – compared to the older ones. Also, I like challenges and that’s another reason I want to go with a new one!”

His desire to lift his community up merged with That 1 Painter’s vision for giving: “My goal is to create jobs for the people around me, so when I read the statement Steven gave about Paint It Forward, I liked the idea of giving back to the community in that way.”

Vegas’ own Jose Mendoza sees similarity of vision between he and T1P’s founder “I was looking for a business that was fairly new for opportunities to grow. Steven seems very hands on and shares the same goal to expand.” and knows he’s the best guy to serve his hometown community: “I have been in Vegas for over 30 years and have seen it grow. I enjoy working with people and have extensive customer service skills.”

Josh Montana brings his love of people to San Antonio, “That 1 Painter offers services that help a homeowner make their vision a reality. Our work has a positive ripple effect that starts with the customer and permeates into their neighborhood. The joy achieved by renewing our living space creates a chain reaction of positivity in our neighborhood and personal life.”

That 1 Painter’s dedication to fantastic service is a huge part of what draws people to sign on for a franchise. Evidenced by a multitude of stellar reviews and their doubling revenue during the pandemic, this company has proven their systems work and that they know how to teach them. With an extensive training program that involves personal coaching, a remarkable Brand Team, and seamless scheduling systems, franchisees have enough support to hit the ground running before their business even launches.

That 1 Painter is offering a $10,000 discount off of the regular price of $39,000 to the first ten franchises they sign. That means there are only 5 spots left! Visit that1painterfranchise.com to learn more, and if you’re interested in taking advantage of this limited time special, contact Gary Occhiogrosso at FRANCHISE GROWTH SOLUTIONS [email protected] today.

About That 1 PainterBorn out of a passion and purpose to help people, That 1 Painter has grown since its founding in 2011 to offer over 18 painting services to the communities of Austin, San Marcos, Tyler, Longview, Frisco, and Plano with other locations already in the works. T1P uses its resources and talents to offer free painting to those in need, through their Paint It Forward program and extends it’s missional outreach to refugees in Africa. The very core of this business is to spread love and generosity throughout the world and to bless their customers with outstanding service while achieving their mission
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Franchise Your Business and Expand Your Brand Learn more here: www.frangrow.com

Learn Why Your Should Franchise:https://www.forbes.com/sites/garyocchiogrosso/2020/12/09/5-key-reasons-to-franchise-a-restaurant-concept/?sh=3b4686245309