#competition for employee of the month will be fierce

[calvin-pascal]

“I’ll give you some time.” Tatum murmured, pressing a kiss to her boyfriend’s cheek before stepping out.

The restaurant was empty now, save for Calvin Pascal standing in the middle of it, surrounded by silence. It was the last night, the last time he’d ever lock these doors. The chairs were stacked neatly on the tables, the polished wooden floors reflected the dim glow of the hanging lights, and the kitchen—his kitchen—was cleaner than it had been in months. All traces of life, the noise, the laughter, the frantic energy of a dinner rush, had faded into stillness. It felt wrong. The restaurant had always been alive, always bustling with movement, and now it was nothing but a hollow shell.

He ran his hand over the counter, feeling the smooth surface beneath his fingertips. He could still remember the first time he set foot in this space, the excitement thrumming through him at the idea of building something his. It had been a dream, one that he’d nurtured, fought for, and poured every ounce of himself into. And now? Now it was closing for good. He’d failed.

The word echoed in his mind, sharp and cold. Failed.

He glanced around, taking in the details of the space he had once been so proud of. The tables, handpicked by him and arranged just so. The art on the walls, reflecting the atmosphere he had wanted to create—warm, inviting, sophisticated. Every decision, every piece, had been chosen with care. And yet none of it had been enough. The restaurant couldn’t survive, not in a city like Paris where competition was fierce, and margins were razor-thin. He thought he could make it, thought he had something special to offer. But here he was, turning the lights out for the last time.

His employees had scattered by now, finding new jobs or moving on in other ways. He’d told them with as much grace as he could muster, but the guilt had eaten away at him. They had relied on him, trusted him to steer the ship, and he’d let them down. Each of them had bills to pay, families to support, and now they were without a paycheck because he hadn’t been able to make it work. It felt like a betrayal, like he’d failed them as much as he’d failed himself.

The dream had been bigger than just owning a restaurant. It had been about building a legacy, creating a space where people came for the food but stayed for the experience. He wanted to be remembered for something more than just another failed business owner. But dreams don’t always line up with reality, and he was staring at the wreckage of his.

New York awaited him now. A Michelin-starred restaurant had offered him the head chef position—a dream job for many, but it felt like a hollow victory. He’d be walking into someone else’s kitchen, executing someone else’s vision. The allure of the title wasn’t enough to erase the sting of closing his own place. He couldn’t shake the feeling that, despite the new opportunity, he was running away, leaving behind the mess he had made.

What gnawed at him most was that deep, unshakable sense of loss. He wasn’t just leaving behind a business. He was leaving behind a part of himself, a part that he had worked so hard to create, and now it was slipping away like water through his fingers. The dreams he once held close felt distant now, unattainable. New York was supposed to be a fresh start, but all he could feel was the weight of what he was leaving behind—the failure, the regret, the dreams he couldn’t quite reach.

Calvin moved to the front of the restaurant, standing at the door. His hand hovered over the light switch. Once he flicked it, it was over. No more second chances, no more trying to fix what had gone wrong. It was final. He took a deep breath and flicked the switch. The lights dimmed, casting the restaurant in shadows. It was done.

As he turned the key in the lock and stepped out into the Paris night — into Tatum’s waiting arms — the familiar streets felt strange to him now. This city, this life—it wasn’t his anymore. He was moving on, to something bigger, something more stable. But as he walked away from the restaurant, from the dreams he had once held so close, all he could feel was the weight of his failure pressing down on him. And despite everything waiting for him in New York, he wasn’t sure he could ever escape it.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Kelby Vera at HuffPost:

Vivek Ramaswamy got quite a strong reaction from conservatives when he tried to explain hiring trends across the tech sector in a culturally-charged social media post on Thursday. In an extended post shared on X, the tech entrepreneur wrote about how “top companies often hire foreign-born & first-generation engineers over ‘native’ Americans,” claiming the imbalance “isn’t because of an innate American IQ deficit (a lazy & wrong explanation)” but rather because of differences on the societal level. “A key part of it comes down to the c-word: culture,” Ramaswamy continued, before telling readers, “Tough questions demand tough answers & if we’re really serious about fixing the problem, we have to confront the TRUTH.” The CEO-turned-politician’s assessment? That “American culture has venerated mediocrity over excellence for way too long.” Ramaswamy suggested that entertainment has had an outsized impact on shaping mainstream American values “at least since the 90s and likely longer.”

“A culture that celebrates the prom queen over the math olympiad champ, or the jock over the valedictorian, will not produce the best engineers,” he claimed. Comparing and contrasting characters from several popular ’90s sitcoms, Ramaswamy went on to say, “A culture that venerates Cory from ‘Boy Meets World,’ or Zach & Slater over Screech in ‘Saved by the Bell,’ or ‘Stefan’ over Steve Urkel in ‘Family Matters,’ will not produce the best engineers.” His solution? “More math tutoring, fewer sleepovers. More weekend science competitions, fewer Saturday morning cartoons. More books, less TV. More creating, less ‘chillin.’ More extracurriculars, less ‘hanging out at the mall.’” While Ramaswamy’s point about pop culture seemed reasonable enough, the entrepreneur’s diagnosis veered into problematic overgeneralizations when he claimed the difference boiled down to families’ cultural and geographic backgrounds. “Most normal American parents look skeptically at ‘those kinds of parents,’” he wrote. “More normal American kids view such ‘those kinds of kids’ with scorn. If you grow up aspiring to normalcy, normalcy is what you will achieve.”

[...] Ramaswamy then tried to rally readers to help shift the status quo by envisioning a future where America “once again prioritizes achievement over normalcy; excellence over mediocrity; nerdiness over conformity; hard work over laziness.” While he pinned demographic disparities across the tech world on supposed cultural differences, the imbalance is more likely about dollars and cents. In 2020, a study by the Economic Policy Institute found that employers that rely on America’s H-1B visa program to recruit temporary employees with “highly specialized” skills and technical education often pay those workers well below the market wages. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Walmart, Google, Apple and Facebook have all made robust use of the program to fill job shortages. With President-elect Donald Trump preparing to implement a draconian deportation strategy when he assumes office next month, conservatives still seem to be at odds over how to approach the labor shortages troubling many of America’s biggest and most profitable businesses. Though Tesla CEO Elon Musk, like Ramaswamy, has vowed to be behind Trump’s harsh immigration policies, on Wednesday he posted that “the number of people who are super talented engineers AND super motivated in the USA is far too low,” and the country needs “to recruit top talent wherever they may be.”

DOGE co-chair Vivek Ramaswamy helped spark MAGA-on-MAGA violence over his X post on cultural differences on work expectations between native-born and foreign-born Americans.

[ultraversetechnologies]

BENEFITS OF CONTINGENT STAFFING SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSES

Adaptability is essential in this constantly changing market structure, where competition is fierce. Being a business owner, you must attend to challenges like market changes, project demand, and workforce balance for smooth production flow. And contingent staffing is one of the strategies applying which you can counter such risk factors, ensuring flexibility, cost savings, and talent accessibility in your company. You can easily monitor productivity, and participate in market competition using our contingent staffing model. There are various benefits of contingent staffing solutions you can leverage for your business growth. Read the entire blog to discover them in detail.

1. Flexibility to Adapt to Business Needs

One of the most significant benefits of contingent staffing solutions is flexibility. Businesses often face fluctuating workloads and seasonal projects that require additional resources. Hiring full-time employees for short-term needs can be costly and inefficient. Contingent staffing allows companies to scale their workforce up or down based on demand. For example, retailers can hire temporary workers during peak shopping seasons, while tech firms can bring in specialists for project-based work. This flexibility helps businesses manage staffing levels without long-term commitments.

2. Access to Specialized Talent

Contingent staffing provides companies with access to a diverse pool of specialized professionals. Many contingent workers have niche expertise in areas like IT, data science, marketing, and engineering. When a business needs skills that are not readily available in-house, a contingent staffing solution can fill the gap quickly. Additionally, companies can hire industry-specific experts without the burden of permanent employment, allowing them to benefit from specialized knowledge without investing in long-term training.

3. Cost Efficiency

Cost savings are one of the other benefits of contingent staffing solutions, where businesses can turn profit. Hiring permanent employees involves expenses such as salaries, benefits, and onboarding costs. With contingent workers, companies pay only for the services they need, avoiding the overhead associated with full-time staff. This model reduces payroll costs, employee benefits, and administrative expenses. Additionally, staffing agencies often handle recruitment, payroll management, and compliance, further lowering the operational burden on the business.

4. Faster Hiring Process

Traditional hiring processes can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Sourcing candidates, conducting interviews, and completing onboarding can take weeks or even months. In contrast, contingent staffing solutions streamline the hiring process. Staffing agencies or platforms provide pre-screened candidates, allowing businesses to fill roles quickly. This is particularly valuable for urgent projects or when a business experiences an unexpected spike in workload. Faster hiring means less downtime and greater efficiency.

5. Reduced Risk and Liability

Employing full-time staff comes with legal and financial responsibilities, including benefits, severance, and compliance with labour laws. Contingent staffing reduces these risks because the staffing agency often assumes employer responsibilities. This arrangement minimises a company’s exposure to employment-related liabilities, such as wrongful termination claims or benefits disputes. Additionally, contingent workers are usually contract-based, making it easier for businesses to end engagements when projects are complete.

6. Access to a Global Talent Pool

With the rise of remote work, contingent staffing solutions offer access to talent from across the globe. Businesses are no longer limited to local candidates. They can collaborate with professionals from different regions, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to their projects. This global reach enhances creativity, problem-solving, and the ability to tackle complex business challenges. And that's another one of the vital benefits of contingent staffing solutions. 

7. Better Workforce Management

Contingent staffing supports strategic workforce planning by providing greater control over resource allocation. Businesses can allocate contingent workers to specific tasks or projects, optimizing team efficiency. This targeted approach improves productivity and helps companies meet deadlines more effectively. Additionally, contingent staffing allows organizations to focus their full-time employees on core business functions while outsourcing specialized or temporary tasks.

Conclusion

The benefits of contingent staffing solutions are wide! It offers a wide range of benefits for businesses of all sizes and industries. From flexibility and cost savings to faster hiring and access to specialized talent, this staffing model empowers companies to adapt, innovate, and thrive in a dynamic marketplace. By embracing contingent staffing, organizations can enhance their agility, reduce risks, and maintain a competitive edge while efficiently managing their workforce. So do you want to enjoy our contingent staffing solutions benefits? Contact us today!

Visit Now: ultraversetechnologies.com Mail Us: info@ultraversetechnologies.com Contact Now: +1 470-451-0575

[coochiequeens]

Ladies please share this with any women you know starting their own business or non-profit

Business grants for women can help you grow your business for free, as opposed to small-business loans or other types of debt-based funding that you must pay back. But competition for small-business grants is fierce, and it takes considerable time and effort to win them. 

If you’re up for the challenge, though, grants can be a great way to fund your new or existing business. Here are 18 places women entrepreneurs can look for small-business grants and other free financial resources.

Private small-business grants for women

Some private corporations and organizations offer business grants for women. Here are six to consider:

1. Amber Grant

Every month, WomensNet awards a $10,000 Amber Grant to a woman-owned business in a specific, rotating category. The categories for 2023 are as follows:

January: Skilled trades

February: Health & fitness

March: Food & beverage

April: Sustainability

May: Mental & emotional support

June: Business support service

July: Animal services

August: Hair care & skincare

September: Education & child care

October: Creative arts

November: Technology

December: Fashion & interior designers

On top of that, the organization awards a second $10,000 monthly grant to a woman-owned business and a quarterly $10,000 grant to one startup and one nonprofit.

At the end of each year, two of the 12 general grant winners and one of the industry-specific grant winners are awarded an additional $25,000. 

The application is relatively simple: Explain your business, describe what you’d do with the grant money and pay a $15 application fee. The foundation’s advisory board chooses the winners, looking for women with passion and a good story. Businesses operating in the U.S. and Canada are eligible.

Because there’s no time in business requirement, companies seeking startup business grants for women may want to prioritize the Amber Grant.

2. IFundWomen Universal Grant Application Database

IFundWomen is a grant marketplace that specializes in funding and coaching for women-owned businesses. You can submit one application and when IFundWomen adds a grant from an enterprise partner, it will match the partner’s grant criteria to applications within the database.

If your business is a match, you’ll receive a notification and invitation to apply. Previous grant partners have included companies like Visa, Neutrogena and American Express.

3. SoGal Black Founder Startup Grant

The SoGal Foundation — along with company sponsors like Bluemercury, Twilio and others — offer startup grants to businesses owned by Black women or Black nonbinary entrepreneurs. Grants are available in amounts of either $5,000 or $10,000.

Awardees also receive fundraising advice, with a focus on investor financing, and lifetime access to the SoGal Foundation team. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so you can apply on the SoGal website at any time.

4. Fearless Strivers Grant Contest

The Fearless Fund, in collaboration with Mastercard, offers $20,000 grants to businesses owned by Black women through the Fearless Strivers Grant Contest. The winners also receive digital tools to help them get and sustain their businesses online and one-on-one mentorship with a Mastercard small-business mentor.

The Fearless Fund runs a national grant program, as well as city-specific grant contests in Atlanta; Birmingham, Alabama; Dayton, Ohio; Los Angeles; New Orleans; New York City; and St. Louis. To qualify for this small-business grant, you must have a U.S.-based business, 50 or fewer employees and have made $3 million or less in annual revenue in the past year.

» MORE: Best business grants for Black women entrepreneurs

5. Cartier Women's Initiative Awards

Every year, Cartier awards three grants to women-owned businesses in nine different regions around the world. The Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards program is designed to support early-stage businesses that are focused on a range of social, economic and environmental development issues.

The first-place business is awarded a $100,000 grant, second place receives $60,000 and third place gets $30,000. Winners also receive executive coaching and the opportunity to participate in a variety of training workshops.

6. Comcast RISE

Comcast awards $10,000 grants to businesses owned by women and people of color several times per year. Each Comcast RISE Investment Fund application cycle is open to entrepreneurs in specific target cities. You can also apply for “marketing services and tech makeovers,” which don’t include cash prizes but can still help your business grow.

7. High Five Grant for Moms

The Mama Ladder organization — along with co-hosts Proof, Belly Bandit and Caden Concepts — offer an annual small-business grant specifically for moms. This grant, called the High Five Grant, is designed to support women caregivers with child(ren) of all ages, including first-time expecting moms, stepmoms and foster moms.

Entrepreneurs can submit an application online and share the story behind their business on social media. Finalists will be chosen by a panel of judges and then a public vote will determine the top three winners. The top business will receive a $25,000 grant, the runner up will receive a $10,000 grant and the third place finalist will receive $5,000.

Additional private business grant options

Although these options aren’t specifically for women, they’re good small-business grants to consider for any entrepreneur.

8. FedEx Small Business Grant

FedEx awards up to $30,000 apiece to 10 small businesses annually. One veteran-owned business from among those 10 winners can receive an additional $20,000 from USAA Small Business Insurance. Winners also receive money to use toward FedEx Office print and business services.

The application requires an explanation of your business, how you’d use the money, photos of your business and — this part is optional — a short video explaining your business. To be eligible, you must operate a for-profit business with fewer than 99 employees and at least six months of operating history.

9. National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grant

Every quarter, the NASE awards up to $4,000 to up to four small businesses via its growth grants. These funds can be used for a variety of business needs, including marketing, advertising and hiring employees.

To apply for this grant, you must be a NASE member in good standing for at least three months. Annual members can apply at any time.

10. Halstead Grant

The Halstead Grant is an annual award for entrepreneurs looking to break into the silver jewelry industry. The winner receives a $7,500 startup grant, as well as $1,000 in jewelry merchandise. Five finalists and semi-finalists also receive $250 or $500 and help with promoting their businesses.

Both men and women-owned businesses are eligible for this small-business grant. To apply, you must answer 15 business-related questions and submit a design portfolio. Applications are due August 1 each year.

11. Fast Break for Small Businesses

These $10,000 grants — funded by LegalZoom, the NBA, WNBA and NBA G League and managed by the Accion Opportunity Fund — are available twice a year. Winners also receive LegalZoom services worth up to $500. You can sign up on LegalZoom’s website to be notified when applications open.

Federal small-business grants for women

Some federal government grants for small-business owners are designated for specific purposes, such as research and development projects, or for businesses in rural areas. Government grants typically can’t be used for startup costs or day-to-day expenses.

12. Grants.gov

Grants.gov is a database of federally sponsored grants, including grants for small businesses. Although these grants are not exclusive to women-owned businesses, this database is a great place to start if you’re looking for free financing.

To apply, you must obtain a Unique Entity ID for your business (a 12-character alphanumeric identification number), register to do business with the U.S. government through its System for Award Management website and create an account at Grants.gov.

To view grants specifically for small businesses, filter the results on the left side of the page under “eligibility.”

13. Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs

The SBA facilitates these two competitive programs, which provide grants to small businesses that contribute to federal research and development. Eleven federal agencies — including the departments of Agriculture, Defense, and Health and Human Services — post business grant opportunities on their websites. You can search current grant opportunities on the SBIR website.

To qualify, you must operate a for-profit business with no more than 500 employees and meet other eligibility requirements.

14. Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME)

Although the SBA coordinates some grant programs, the agency doesn’t typically offer grant funding directly to small businesses. With the PRIME program, however, the SBA provides federal grants to microenterprise development organizations so that they can offer training, technical assistance and coaching to disadvantaged small-business owners.

These grants are available to nonprofit, private, state, local or tribal-run organizations, including those that focus on working with women-owned small businesses. The Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation, for example, was awarded a $200,000 grant in 2022.

» MORE: Business grants are ‘just not that easy.’ Here are some tips to help

State and local small-business grants for women

Because federal small-business grants are limited in number and often very competitive, you may have better luck seeking out grants for women at the state and municipal levels. You’ll have to do your own research to pinpoint specific grant programs in your area, but here are some places to help you get started:

15. Women’s Business Centers

The SBA sponsors more than 100 Women’s Business Centers nationwide, designed to help women entrepreneurs with business development and access to capital. Some, such as the California Capital Financial Development Corp., lend money directly while others help you find small-business grants and loans that you may qualify for.

16. Economic Development Administration

Every state and many cities have economic development resources focused on promoting strong local economies. For example, New York has several economic development districts, such as the Lake Champlain - Lake George Regional Planning Board, which helps local businesses access state and federal funding.

17. Small Business Development Centers

There are hundreds of SBA-sponsored Small Business Development Centers around the country, typically housed at colleges and universities. SBDCs offer free, one-on-one business consulting, such as help with developing a business plan, researching markets and finding financing — including grants, business loans and crowdfunding.

Some SBDCs offer training on certification programs like the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program and Minority and Women Business Enterprise Certifications. These programs can help businesses level the playing field when competing in the public and private sector.

18. Minority Business Development Agency Centers

The MBDA operates a network of business centers across the country that are designed to help minority business owners access capital, secure contracts and develop financial strategies. Your local MBDA business center can work with you to identify the right financing options for your business, including federal, state and private small-business grants.

The MBDA also runs the Enterprising Women of Color Initiative, or EWOC, to support minority women in their business endeavors. The EWOC provides access to resources, events and other opportunities for women minority-owned businesses.

» MORE: Find small-business grants for minorities

Alternatives to small-business grants

Finding and applying for business grants can be difficult, as well as time-consuming. If you don’t qualify for certain grants — or simply want to explore other ways to fund your women-owned business — here are some avenues to explore:

Best small-business loans for women: Compare SBA loans, online term loans, lines of credit, microloans and learn about other available resources for your business.

Crowdfunding for business: Tap into the power of the internet to raise money for your business and promote your company’s product or service.

Small-business credit cards: Compare dozens of cards and find the best choice for financing your everyday business purchases — and earn rewards in the process.

SBA microloans: Work with a nonprofit financial institution to apply for these government-backed loans, which can be a good choice for new or very small businesses.

[yamuna111]

Using Chatbots for Enhanced Customer Service in Tamil Nadu Businesses

In today’s fast-paced world, customers expect quick, efficient, and personalized service at all times. For businesses in Tamil Nadu, keeping up with these demands can be a challenge. Enter chatbots—an innovative tool that can significantly improve customer service by automating communication and providing real-time assistance.

A digital marketing agency in Tamil Nadu can help businesses integrate chatbot solutions, ensuring seamless customer interactions 24/7. In this blog, we’ll explore how chatbots can revolutionize customer service in Tamil Nadu businesses, providing valuable insights on implementation, benefits, and real-world success stories.

What Are Chatbots and How Do They Work?

Chatbots are AI-powered software programs designed to simulate human conversation. They interact with customers through messaging platforms like websites, mobile apps, and social media channels. Using Natural Language Processing (NLP), chatbots understand customer queries and respond accordingly, offering solutions, answering questions, or directing them to the appropriate department.

Why Chatbots Are a Game-Changer for Tamil Nadu Businesses

The adoption of chatbots can be especially beneficial for businesses in Tamil Nadu, where customer expectations are high, and competition is fierce. By automating customer service tasks, chatbots offer several advantages:

1. 24/7 Availability

With a chatbot in place, Tamil Nadu businesses can offer round-the-clock service, ensuring that customers can get help at any time of day, even outside of regular business hours. This availability increases customer satisfaction and reduces the likelihood of missed opportunities.

2. Cost-Effective Customer Support

Traditional customer service often involves hiring multiple employees to handle customer queries, which can be expensive. Chatbots can handle a high volume of inquiries simultaneously, reducing operational costs for businesses in Tamil Nadu while ensuring quick responses.

3. Instant Responses

Customers no longer have to wait in long queues for a human representative. Chatbots provide instant answers to common questions, such as product availability, order status, and business hours, significantly improving the customer experience.

4. Personalized Interaction

Modern chatbots can analyze previous interactions and customer data to provide personalized responses. For example, a chatbot may remember a returning customer’s preferences and recommend products accordingly, creating a more tailored experience for the user.

Real-World Example: How Chatbots Are Transforming Businesses in Tamil Nadu

Several businesses in Tamil Nadu have already embraced chatbots and seen remarkable results. Take, for instance, a local retail store in Coimbatore that integrated a chatbot into their website. By doing so, they saw a 30% increase in customer engagement within the first month. The chatbot handled frequently asked questions about product availability, promotions, and return policies, freeing up human agents to focus on more complex queries. As a result, customer satisfaction skyrocketed, and sales improved significantly.

Key Benefits for Tamil Nadu Businesses

1. Improved Efficiency

By automating repetitive tasks, chatbots help businesses save time and resources. Tasks like answering FAQs, scheduling appointments, and processing orders can be done without human intervention, allowing employees to focus on high-value activities.

2. Lead Generation and Qualification

Chatbots are not just for customer support—they can also assist in lead generation. By asking qualifying questions and collecting contact details, chatbots can help businesses in Tamil Nadu build a strong pipeline of potential customers.

3. Enhanced Customer Insights

Chatbots can gather valuable data on customer preferences, behavior, and pain points. This information can then be analyzed to improve products, services, and marketing efforts, providing a better understanding of the local Tamil Nadu market.

How a Digital Marketing Agency in Tamil Nadu Can Help

Implementing a chatbot requires technical expertise and a deep understanding of customer behavior. A digital marketing agency in Tamil Nadu can help businesses design and deploy a chatbot solution that aligns with their brand voice and customer service goals. With the right integration, chatbots can be deployed across multiple platforms, including websites, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp, ensuring that businesses can engage with customers wherever they are.

Key Steps to Implement a Chatbot for Your Business

Define Your Objectives

Are you looking to improve customer service, generate leads, or both? Defining clear goals will help guide the development and deployment process.

Choose the Right Platform

There are several chatbot platforms available, ranging from simple ones like Chatfuel to more advanced AI-driven options. Your digital marketing agency in Tamil Nadu can help you select the right one for your business needs.

Create a Knowledge Base

A chatbot works best when it has access to a comprehensive knowledge base. Collect FAQs, product information, and common inquiries to feed into your chatbot’s system.

Test and Optimize

Once the chatbot is live, continuously monitor its performance, collect feedback, and make improvements to ensure it’s delivering the best results for your customers.

Conclusion: The Future of Customer Service in Tamil Nadu

Incorporating chatbots into customer service can help Tamil Nadu businesses boost efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and reduce costs. Whether you’re running a small business in Chennai or a growing startup in Madurai, a well-designed chatbot can enhance customer engagement and ensure that no inquiry goes unanswered.

If you’re interested in learning more about how chatbots can improve your customer service, contact a digital marketing agency in Tamil Nadu today. They can help you develop a chatbot strategy that fits your unique business needs and helps you stay ahead of the competition.

Call to Action: Ready to enhance your customer service with a chatbot? Get in touch with a trusted digital marketing agency in Tamil Nadu and take the next step toward improving your business's efficiency and customer satisfaction.

[glapplebloom]

Let’s change things up...

Yeah, I’m doing the Pony Life Episodes now instead of doing them after the Series ended. I’ve decided that I’m going to start reviewing Generation 5 after the last episode of Generation 4. While I was mostly doing so since I wanted to keep the two apart, between Generation 5’s sudden cancellation and them going back to the G4 well (at least in the IDW Comics) I’ve decided to use the fact it is supposed to be a continuation to justify my review of it now.

So what about Pony Life? There are 40 episodes in total (ignoring the fact some of them are two different stories), so I’m going to review 2 episodes at a time (which I will most likely do for Tell Your Tale as well as the Clip Shows). I’ll be moving on to Generation 5 after the Last Problem. So before we begin these reviews, what is Pony Life anyway?

It’s basically Generation 4.5. A little series to hold people over until Generation 5 begins proper. It has the same characters as Generation 4, but you can throw away anything you remember before as this is a completely different continuity. And if you saw the manga, this timeline happened because Discord was messing with time. So if you want to consider Generation 5 a true continuation of Generation 4, then Generation 4.5 would actually explain why things are so different. Now to the episodes...

Princess Probz

So unlike Generation 4, Pony Life does not have the episodes on Youtube, at least straight up. They’re part of compilations of various clips put together, so finding the episodes as intended is difficult. Episode 1 is found on Dailymotion. Speaking of Episode 1, it begins with Pinkie Pie working up a storm at Sugar Cube Corner. This also introduces us to the pony’s new quirks.

Pinkie Pie is basically the same (and explodes randomly). Rarity’s drama is cranked up to eleven. Applejack can break the 4th Wall now (she maybe is part Pie after all) and everyone drinks random potions for some reason. We also get to the plot of the episode: Pinkie Pie is going to a reality show: Royal Jelly Juggernaut. While Pinkie is excited, Twilight is Twilighting hard since Celestia is the judge and the competition is fierce.

And after seeing how Pinkie Pie has her stuff organized, Twilight is EXTREMELY Twilighting Hard now and gathered the girls to try to help Pinkie Pie with the auditions by giving her advice. After an incident with Flan, the girls are stuck while Pinkie goes to the Audition sad. She wanted her friends to come support her. Basically, they realized they should have believed in her from the start, they wouldn’t be in this mess in the first place. 

They try to eat their way out while Pinkie Pie is at the Audition. She tries to follow their advice but it is failing. The majority of the second part is this. Pinkie Pie has finished making her upside down flan cake as the girls arrived. Celestia loved it. Honestly, it's kind of refreshing to see Celestia like this. At Sugar Cube Corner, the girls apologize to Pinkie Pie. 

For the first episode, it does its job to introduce you to the kind of stuff to expect from this series: Slice of Life Cranked up to Eleven. The girls are wackier, the situation is wackier, and they use modern technology. We got reality shows, TVs, and in the future we’ll be seeing the Canternet.

The Best of the Worst

Rainbow Dash is being Rainbow Dash and talking about why she is so awesome. She’s so awesome, she’s Sugar Cube Corner’s employee of the Month and she doesn’t even work there. Then we meet Dishwater Slog who wants to see if Rainbow Dash can live up to her title of being the best of the best: by being the best at being the worst. He challenges her to a Fail Off and while she didn’t think highly of doing it, after being called a chicken she accepts. 

Already she’s losing as you have to lose the most to win and she won a Rhyming Competition. There are three categories in this competition:  Athleticism, creativity, and emotions. Basically the episode is Rainbow Dash trying to fail but succeeding while Slog fails and wins. The Majority of part 1 is this fact, though only two of the competition as we moved on to the emotions round. For Dash to win, she must not express emotion.

So Fluttershy can randomly shrink now. We’ll also see her randomly grow, and without a potion. Guess she got a little bit of Discord in her. Rainbow Dash is successfully not showing emotion until Slog trips the fan from earlier. A kid. Dash can’t help herself from worrying because she does this for her fans, which he is one. But this means she loses. This is where they decide to turn the tables on Slog. Because he’s so prideful of being the worst, they show him he is the best at being something: a jerk.

This somehow makes it a tie and they have a tie breaker: a race. Dash can’t help but accept a challenge and can’t figure out a way to make herself worse. At the race, she does her best to be last, but the fan requested her to beat the bully and she couldn’t help herself but win the race. Which means she loses. So when he went to brag about losing (thus winning), Dash was being humble. It ends with Dash reaffirming she’s the best and Slog going to spoil the ending to the book Twilight was interested in reading.

Overall, while I am a Rainbow Dash fan I was not a fan of this episode. It's basically this guy bragging about doing nothing. So he doesn’t try and tries to use reverse logic to make himself feel bigger when he’s just a jerk. Basically he lives up to his name: it was a slog to get through.

Two episodes down, more to go.

[australiadoors]

Protect Your Business: The Advantages Of Commercial Roller Shutters In Melbourne

In a bustling city like Melbourne, where businesses are continually evolving and competition is fierce, ensuring the security of your commercial property is paramount. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your business from potential threats is by installing commercial roller shutters. These robust shutters are not only a practical security measure but also offer a myriad of additional benefits that can significantly contribute to the efficiency and safety of your business operations.

Enhanced Security

The primary purpose of commercial roller shutters is to provide an enhanced level of security. In Melbourne, where businesses can be targets for vandalism and break-ins, these shutters act as a formidable barrier against unauthorised access. Made from high-quality materials like aluminium or steel, commercial roller shutters are designed to withstand significant force, making it extremely difficult for intruders to breach your premises. The presence of these shutters alone can act as a deterrent, reducing the likelihood of an attempted break-in.

Energy Efficiency

Beyond their security benefits, commercial roller shutters contribute to your building's energy efficiency. In a city known for its variable climate, these shutters play a crucial role in temperature regulation. During Melbourne’s scorching summers, the shutters help to block out excessive heat, keeping the interior cool and reducing the strain on air conditioning systems. Conversely, in the colder months, they provide an additional layer of insulation, helping to retain warmth within the building. This dual functionality can lead to significant energy savings, lowering your operational costs and contributing to a more sustainable business.

Noise Reduction

Another advantage of commercial roller shutters is their ability to reduce noise pollution. Whether your business is located in a busy urban area or near a major road, these shutters can help to minimise the intrusion of external noise. This creates a quieter, more conducive environment for both employees and customers, enhancing productivity and comfort.

Customisable and Aesthetic Appeal

In addition to their functional benefits, commercial roller shutters are also highly customisable. Modern shutters are available in a variety of designs, colours, and finishes, allowing you to choose an option that aligns with your business’s brand and aesthetic. Whether you want a sleek, modern look or something more traditional, there are commercial roller shutters to suit your needs. This ensures that while your premises are secure, they also maintain a professional and appealing appearance.

Increased Property Value

Installing commercial roller shutters can also increase the value of your property. Prospective buyers or tenants are likely to see these shutters as a valuable asset, recognising the security and energy efficiency benefits they offer. This can make your property more attractive in the real estate market, potentially leading to a higher sale or rental price.

Conclusion

In a competitive and ever-changing business environment like Melbourne, taking proactive steps to secure your commercial property is essential. Commercial roller shutters offer a comprehensive solution that goes beyond mere security. With their ability to enhance energy efficiency, reduce noise pollution, and add aesthetic value, these shutters are a worthwhile investment for any business owner. By choosing to install commercial roller shutters in Melbourne, you are not only protecting your assets but also improving the overall functionality and appeal of your business premises.

[truetech1]

Why Should Professionals in Mumbai Rent Laptops? Top Benefits Unveiled!

In the dynamic and fast-paced city of Mumbai, professionals and businesses are constantly seeking ways to enhance productivity while managing costs effectively. One smart solution that’s gaining popularity is renting laptops. Whether you’re a freelancer, startup, or corporate professional, opting for a laptop on rent in Mumbai offers several benefits that can streamline your operations, save money, and ensure you always have access to the latest technology.

1. Cost-Effectiveness

One of the primary reasons why professionals choose to rent laptops is the significant cost savings. Buying high-quality laptops outright can be expensive, especially when you need multiple devices for your team. Renting eliminates the need for a large upfront investment, making it an affordable option for professionals. With a laptop on rent in Mumbai, you only pay for the duration you need, which is ideal for short-term projects, temporary employees, or event-specific requirements. This allows businesses to allocate their budgets more effectively and avoid overspending on technology.

2. Access to Latest Technology

Technology is evolving rapidly, and what’s cutting-edge today might become outdated in just a few years. For professionals who rely heavily on high-performance laptops, keeping up with these changes can be challenging and costly. Renting a laptop ensures you have access to the latest models without the burden of upgrading every few years. Rental companies regularly update their inventory, offering professionals the newest devices to meet their needs. In a city like Mumbai, where competition is fierce, having a laptop on rent in Mumbai keeps you equipped with top-notch technology without the financial burden of constant upgrades.

3. Flexibility and Scalability

Business needs can fluctuate, especially in a city as dynamic as Mumbai. Renting laptops provides the flexibility to scale up or down as needed. Whether you’re hiring extra staff for a specific project or managing a temporary team for an event, renting allows you to quickly adjust the number of devices without being tied down by permanent purchases. Once the project is complete, you can easily return the laptops, avoiding the hassle of maintaining excess equipment. This flexibility is particularly valuable for professionals and businesses that need to adapt to changing workloads without the commitment of buying new laptops.

4. Hassle-Free Maintenance and Support

When you rent a laptop, maintenance and support are typically included in the rental package. This means that if any technical issues arise, the rental provider will handle repairs, replacements, or troubleshooting, ensuring minimal downtime for your work. In a bustling business hub like Mumbai, downtime can be costly. Having a reliable rental partner means that you can focus on your work without worrying about hardware malfunctions or software glitches. For professionals, this hassle-free service adds immense value, ensuring smooth operations at all times.

5. Short-Term Projects and Events

Many professionals and businesses in Mumbai undertake short-term projects or host events that require temporary IT equipment. In such cases, renting laptops is a convenient and cost-effective solution. You can rent the required number of devices for the duration of the project or event and return them afterward, without the long-term commitment or maintenance burden. Whether it’s for a few days, weeks, or months, a laptop on rent in Mumbai provides the flexibility to meet your temporary technology needs seamlessly.

Conclusion

Renting laptops offers a range of advantages for professionals in Mumbai. From cost savings to flexibility, hassle-free maintenance to access to the latest technology, renting is a practical and efficient solution for modern business needs. Whether you’re a freelancer looking for a temporary setup or a corporate professional managing a team, a laptop on rent in Mumbai allows you to stay competitive, agile, and focused on your core business tasks without being bogged down by the challenges of purchasing and maintaining equipment.

[bankzonestaffingsolutions]

Relationship Manager Job at HDFC Bank Limited – Edappadi, Salem

In today's competitive job market, finding a fulfilling and stable career can be challenging. For those seeking a dynamic and rewarding position in the banking sector, the role of a Relationship Manager at HDFC Bank in Edappadi, Salem, presents a compelling opportunity. This article delves into the details of this role, highlighting the qualifications, responsibilities, and the invaluable support provided by the "Best Bank Exam Course Training Institute that provides the Best Job Assistance in Tamil Nadu."

Overview of HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank is one of India's leading private sector banks, renowned for its robust banking operations and commitment to customer service. With branches across the country, HDFC Bank offers a wide range of financial products and services to its customers. The bank's focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and employee development makes it an attractive employer for aspiring banking professionals.

Relationship Manager Position

The Relationship Manager role at HDFC Bank in Edappadi, Salem, is a full-time position that demands a blend of sales acumen, customer service skills, and financial expertise. This role is pivotal in driving the bank's growth by acquiring and managing clients, providing financial advisory services, and meeting sales targets.

Job Details

Position: Relationship Manager

Qualification: Degree in any relevant field

Experience: Minimum of one year in sales, banking, finance, or insurance

Salary: Rs 24,000 to Rs 29,000 per month

Location: Edappadi, Salem

Skills Required:

Sales skills

Customer service skills

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Networking skills

Key Responsibilities

The Relationship Manager is responsible for:

Client Acquisition and Management:

Identifying and acquiring new clients to expand the bank's customer base.

Building and maintaining strong relationships with existing clients.

Financial Advisory:

Providing clients with tailored financial advice and solutions.

Assisting clients in understanding and selecting appropriate financial products.

Sales Targets:

Meeting and exceeding sales targets set by the bank.

Generating leads and converting them into successful sales.

Market Research and Reporting:

Conducting market research to identify opportunities and trends.

Preparing reports and providing insights to senior management.

Partnership Supervision:

Ensuring the bank meets sales targets across multiple channels.

Collaborating with branch managers to cultivate strong relationships.

Credit Assessment:

Assessing the creditworthiness of clients and approving loans.

Event Organization:

Organizing customer events and workshops to engage and educate clients.

Community Engagement:

Participating in community outreach programs to enhance the bank's presence.

Regulation Compliance:

Staying updated on banking regulations and ensuring compliance.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates applying for the Relationship Manager position must meet the following criteria:

Education: A graduate degree in any field.

Experience: At least one year of experience in sales, banking, finance, or insurance.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).

Communication: Strong communication skills.

Why Choose the Best Bank Exam Course Training Institute in Tamil Nadu?

Securing a position as a Relationship Manager at HDFC Bank requires more than just meeting the eligibility criteria. The competition is fierce, and candidates need to stand out. This is where the "Best Bank Exam Course Training Institute that provides the Best Job Assistance in Tamil Nadu" comes into play.

Comprehensive Training Programs

Our institute offers comprehensive training programs designed to equip candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in banking exams and job roles. Our curriculum covers all aspects of banking, from fundamental concepts to advanced topics, ensuring that our students are well-prepared for any challenge.

Experienced Trainers

Our team of experienced trainers includes industry experts and seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the classroom. They provide personalized guidance and mentorship, helping students understand complex topics and develop effective strategies for success.

Proven Track Record

We take pride in our proven track record of success. Over the years, we have placed more than 2,500 candidates in prestigious roles within private banks across Tamil Nadu. Our streamlined placement process ensures that candidates secure positions within 30 to 45 days.

Personalized Job Assistance

Our commitment to our students doesn't end with training. We provide personalized job assistance, helping candidates navigate the job market and find opportunities that match their qualifications and career goals. From resume building to interview preparation, we support our students every step of the way.

Top-Ranked Institute

Recognized as the top bank exam coaching center in Salem, our institute has earned a reputation for excellence. Our focus on quality education, practical training, and job placement assistance sets us apart as the preferred choice for aspiring banking professionals.

Conclusion

The Relationship Manager position at HDFC Bank in Edappadi, Salem, offers a rewarding career path for individuals with a passion for banking and customer service. By leveraging the comprehensive training and job assistance provided by the "Best Bank Exam Course Training Institute that provides the Best Job Assistance in Tamil Nadu," candidates can enhance their chances of securing this coveted role. With our support, you can embark on a successful career in the private banking sector and achieve your professional aspirations.

[fillycoder]

5 Signs your Business needs HR Automation

Consider a company that does not have a human resources department. From hiring new and training to payroll, HR manages all of these activities to ensure a positive employee experience. As a result, the human resources department is an essential component of any organization. A business organization will fail to meet the success it deserves if it does not have a proper Human Resources department. As a result, HR deserves credit for a well-managed company.

Nevertheless, there are lots of challenges that HR must solve, such as identifying and hiring the right person, retaining and motivating employees, providing training, making strategic initiatives, taking care of employee health and benefits, fast and reliable payroll, and so on.

In today's fiercely competitive business environment, staying ahead of the competition has become more of a requirement for organizations.

This is where HR automation comes in handy. HR Management software has demonstrated to be an effective tool for reducing the burden of the HR department.

Business process automation is the one technological trend that is rapidly spreading in the business world these days. This is why we see firms frequently seeking to automate their key company's operations and/or departments, and management of human resources is clearly no exception.

But before you choose to automate your HR process, it is advisable to carefully weigh the several factors involved such as company growth and operational efficiency of your current HR department. Here are some tell-tale signs your business needs HR automation:

Primary roles are becoming outdated and slow: Have you been repeatedly pestering your HR team about their slowness with recruitment and selection process or tax rates? If so, it's time to take a close look at your HR department's most significant roles and responsibilities and recognize any inefficiencies.

2. Your workforce has exceeded HR capabilities: The more organized and automated your HR processes are, the more time your HR crew gets to focus on sourcing and retaining a talented workforce.

3. Payroll and audits have become a nightmare: If your payroll process is becoming totally pointless and prone to errors, it's time to invest in automated payroll software to ensure accurate and error-free paycheck processing. Also, if HR audits and MIS reports are taking weeks or months, it's time to automate your HR operations.

4. Operational expenses are starting to take its toll: If capital costs are eating up too much of your HR department's budget, you can expect more of the same with a paper-based HR system. Changing to an automated HR system would eliminate paper while decreasing your spending on key operations.

5. Staffing budget is hitting a new low: Since an automated HR solution needs less human interference compared to a paper-based system, HR people can work in an efficient and agile manner even with a reduced workforce.

[onlineemenu-software]

Restaurant Solutions Software Cost: A Complete Guide

In today’s fiercely competitive restaurant industry, technology plays a vital role in optimizing operations, enhancing productivity, and ultimately driving revenue. Restaurant management software offers a plethora of features beyond simple order processing, making it indispensable for restaurants of all sizes. However, determining the exact cost of restaurant solution software can be challenging due to the myriad of options available.

To navigate this complexity, this comprehensive guide delves into the key factors influencing the cost of restaurant solution software, empowering you to make informed decisions for your establishment.

Factors Influencing Restaurant Solution Software Cost

The cost of restaurant solution software is not uniform and is influenced by various factors, including:

Type of Restaurant Software:

Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems:

These are foundational software solutions that manage core restaurant operations such as order processing, payment transactions, and inventory tracking.

Basic POS Systems: Suited for smaller establishments, offering essential functionalities at a lower cost range, typically starting at $50-$100 per month.

Advanced POS Systems: Tailored for larger restaurants with complex needs, providing additional features like employee management and reporting tools. Costs range from $200-$500+ per month.

Know How does a POS system work in a restaurant? Learn More

Restaurant Management Systems (RMS): Extending beyond POS functionalities, RMS offers a comprehensive suite of tools for managing all aspects of your restaurant, including inventory control, table management, labor scheduling, and marketing campaigns. Costs range from $1,000-$5,000+ per month, depending on features and users.

Additional Software: Restaurants may require supplementary software solutions such as online food ordering systems, reservation systems, and loyalty programs, each with varying pricing models.

Deployment Model: Choosing between cloud-based and on-premise solutions impacts cost structure, with cloud-based software offering subscription models and on-premise solutions requiring upfront licensing fees.

Looking for Best budget-friendly restaurant management software for UAE? Learn More

Number of Users: Pricing may be influenced by the number of users accessing the system, particularly in multi-user environments.

Customization: Custom development for specific needs may incur additional costs beyond pre-built solutions.

Additional Cost Considerations

In addition to software costs, other factors contribute to the total investment:

Hardware: Implementing the software may require additional hardware like tablets, receipt printers, or kitchen display systems.

Implementation and Training: Software providers often offer implementation services and employee training, which may involve additional fees.

Ongoing Support: Maintaining the software requires ongoing support contracts incurring monthly or annual costs.

Average Cost Ranges

While exact costs vary, here’s a general breakdown:

Basic POS Systems: $50-$100 per month

Advanced POS Systems: $200-$500+ per month

Restaurant Management Systems: $1,000-$5,000+ per month

Additional Software: Varies depending on the solution and features.

Popular Restaurant Solutions Software Providers

Several reputable providers offer restaurant management software solutions tailored to diverse needs:

Online eMenu

Olo

Seven Rooms

Toast

Lightspeed Restaurant

Revel Systems

NCR Silver

Conclusion

Investing in restaurant management software is a strategic decision with profound implications for your business. Prioritize solutions that offer long-term value, streamline operations, and enable exceptional customer service. Consider factors beyond cost, such as functionality, scalability, and provider reputation. Ultimately, the right software solution can propel your restaurant towards sustainable growth and success.

[techpedo]

Google Working to Fix Gemini AI as CEO Sundar Pichai Calls Some Responses 'Unacceptable'

Google is working to fix its Gemini AI tool, CEO Sundar Pichai told employees in a note on Tuesday, saying some of the text and image responses generated by the model were "biased" and "completely unacceptable".The company had last week paused the use of its tool that creates images of people following inaccuracies in some historical depictions generated by it.Pichai told employees that some of the tool's responses offended its users and had shown bias."Our teams have been working around the clock to address these issues. We're already seeing a substantial improvement on a wide range of prompts... And we'll review what happened and make sure we fix it at scale," he said.The company now plans to relaunch Gemini AI in the next few weeks. News website Semafor first reported the news, which was later confirmed by a Google spokesperson.Since the launch of Microsoft-backed OpenAI's ChatGPT in November 2022, Alphabet-owned Google has been racing to create a rival AI software.It released the generative AI chatbot Bard a year ago. Earlier this month Google renamed it Gemini and rolled out paid subscription plans, which users could choose for better reasoning capabilities from the AI model.Last week, social media platform Reddit struck a deal with Google to make its content available for training the search engine giant's artificial intelligence models.The contract with Alphabet-owned Google is worth about $60 million (roughly Rs. 497 crore) per year, according to a source familiar with the matter.The deal underscores how Reddit, which is preparing for a high-profile stock market launch, is seeking to generate new revenue amid fierce competition for advertising dollars from the likes of TikTok and Meta Platform's Facebook.© Thomson Reuters 2024Google I/O 2023 saw the search giant repeatedly tell us that it cares about AI, alongside the launch of its first foldable phone and Pixel-branded tablet. This year, the company is going to supercharge its apps, services, and Android operating system with AI technology. We discuss this and more on Orbital, the Gadgets 360 podcast. Orbital is available on Spotify, Gaana, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you get your podcasts. Affiliate links may be automatically generated - see our ethics statement for details.For details of the latest launches and news from Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme, OnePlus, Oppo and other companies at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, visit our MWC 2024 hub. Read the full article

[mamun258]

Fragrance industry: Fu Ke

Compared with the veteran Xing Wei, Fu Ke is much younger. This new brand specializing in fragrance products was established in HE Tuber July 2022 with only 6 employees. In 2023, it will have a revenue of 5 million on Xiaohongshu – founder Yuan Ye even set a target of 2024 on Xiaohongshu. The goal of doubling performance.

Everyone should know that the golden period of new consumer entrepreneurship has passed. Today, it is very difficult to start a new brand from scratch. When Fuke was first established, it inevitably encountered resistance: market competition was fierce, and it was very difficult to start public domain traffic.

While exploring the breaking point, Yuan Ye recalled an experience in 2021: Since he had been doing Chinese herbal medicine business with his family before starting a business, he would go to Xiaohongshu to post some health-related content out of interest, and it took only 3 months to start the business. 0 reached 9,000 followers.

So, he immediately set out to give Xiaohongshu a try. Unexpectedly, the note announcing the new product immediately went viral! And it’s not just one article that exploded by chance, the data performance of several consecutive articles is very good. In his own words: "It's very simple. It explodes as soon as you publish it, and the rate of explosive articles is extremely high."

After seeing initial results,

Fuke not only increased the operation of its official account, but also opened a flagship store on Xiaohongshu to directly realize the closed loop of e-commerce - today the transaction volume of Xiaohongshu e-commerce is already higher than that of Tmall. When Yuan Ye reflected on this experience of entering the game, he did not think it was just good luck, but that his unique product shape and oriental fragrance have strong visual elements, so that the content output is in line with the characteristics and species of the Xiaohongshu crowd. The grass atmosphere produces a high degree of fit and achieves "people-goods-yard" matching.

From the perspective of marketing strategy, Fu Ke’s core secret lies in “the right time, right place and right people”: promoting content and products in accordance with the current season, and taking advantage of the hot spots of solar terms. Xiaohongshu naturally has the attribute of planting grass, so whenever the corresponding season or festival comes, a large number of users will come to browse Xiaohongshu. For example, they come to search for gifts on Valentine's Day, and to keep warm in winter. If content that matches the solar terms and atmosphere is output in a timely manner, it will definitely be in line with the topicality of the season, thus attracting a large number of precise users. As an incense hanging product, Fu Ke can actually easily match the characteristics of the season through its image and scent.

For example, February to April is the spring tea season, so Fu Ke began to prepare products such as Longjing Incense and Spring Tea Incense in December of the previous year, and continued to produce related content from January onwards. In subsequent seasons, whatever flowers bloom will be followed by scented products: jasmine in spring, gardenia in summer, and osmanthus in autumn. Summer styles favor fresh scents, while autumn and winter styles favor warm, woody scents. In this way, a "series sense" can be created from a year-round perspective, making the entire brand's product line continuous.

It can be clearly seen from the picture below that in different seasons of 2023, Fu Ke will produce a large number of popular notes, and the effect is remarkable.

This content planting not only directly promoted the sales conversion of the Xiaohongshu flagship store, but also established a certain brand image and created market volume, which greatly reduced the resistance when Fu Ke expanded dealer channels. Many After the channels see the content, they will in turn come to you – for a new brand that has just entered the market, it is actually not easy.

However, in the subsequent development, Fuke also encountered considerable challenges: more and more brands and categories entered Xiaohongshu in the fragrance industry, and its own product line was relatively single, so traffic was easily diluted. Therefore, the first response strategy is to continuously strengthen its competitiveness through category expansion and product iteration.

Xiaohongshu has a unique advantage in product innovation. It is difficult to find a second public domain entrance with so much real user feedback.

As a result, Duke began to pay close attention to users’ feedback and suggestions, and established a community of experienced officers. Because Osmanthus fragrans products are relatively popular, users also hope to buy perfume products of the same scent, so a 2 ml perfume sample was released to try out the effect.

Unexpectedly, this product became a hit again, with a large number of users urging formal wear in the comments. Seeing such positive feedback, Fu Ke was not shy and immediately launched a formal perfume spray 2 months later – more than 1,600 pieces were sold at the Xiaohongshu flagship store just after it went online in December. It can be seen that the whole process from insight into real needs, to trial sales of small samples, to formal launch, is very natural, and it also greatly shortens the product innovation cycle. Yuan also set a new goal and decided to launch a new product every month in 2024.

Secondly, the second strategy to deal with competition is to adopt a diversified mix of marketing tools. This relies on a large amount of content creation and continuous material testing to screen out the ones with the highest potential for increased investment. In the past year, Fu Ke has published more than 1,000 notes, and the number of monthly notes has increased from 50 in January to 300 in December.

When you find that a certain note is very popular or has good data performance, adding French fries can effectively increase the exposure of the content. The use of French fries is similar to providing a boost, helping the content to gain wider attention more easily, effectively increasing user interaction and chances of entering the store.

The advantage of using ARK to directly place e-commerce ads in stores is that the operation is simple and user-friendly, and the overall ROI is relatively high, which effectively helps improve the conversion rate of ads and content.

Increase investment in spotlight platforms to achieve more refined crowd positioning and advertising bidding. But at the same time, more professional knowledge and skills are needed for effective management, and we are currently cooperating with service providers.

In the future, Fuke is also optimistic about three opportunities: first, to expand the multi-account matrix, targeting different product lines, host IPs, etc.; second, to upgrade the grass-rooted content, including scene-based expansion, different shooting styles, and diverse topics. Expansion; finally, the upgrade of the operation strategy. In the past, we mainly relied on the two simple tools of French fries heating and ARK to acquire customers. Recently, we have also increased our investment in the spotlight platform, and hope to use experts to plant grass and live broadcast. Come and get more new increments.

2.3 Home decoration industry: TOALDO

TOALDO is a studio specializing in villa design. The manager, Sun Kaixuan, has 10 years of experience in the design industry and chose to start his own business and become his own boss in 2017. To this day, the company has won many honors in the design industry, and Sun Kaixuan often attends industry summits as a guest. Since the establishment of the company coincided with the rise of domestic self-media, the TOALDO team began to study how to seize this wave of opportunities and create an online promotion and customer acquisition model. By comparing the four popular platforms of Douyin, Xiaohongshu, Dianping and Toutiao, they finally chose to focus their business on Xiaohongshu:

First of all, the content of TOALDO is mainly pictures and texts, which fits well with Xiaohongshu’s note-taking format and makes the operation simpler.

Secondly, the customer resources on Xiaohongshu match the tone of our own brand, and there is no shortage of high-quality traffic.

Finally, when Xiaohongshu first entered the game in 2018, it did have traffic dividends and lower customer acquisition costs.

Currently, 80% of TOALDO’s customers come from Xiaohongshu.

In 2017, the usual thinking in the architectural design industry is to "template" designs and then mass-copy new ones to expand the scale - it seems to be growing rapidly, but in fact it lacks originality and leads to lack of competitiveness.

TOALDO took a different approach after its establishment, insisting on original design and delving into design philosophy and logic, thus finding a foothold in the high-end market. Sun Kaixuan once described his work like this: "My working method is similar to a doctor writing a graduation thesis. I must make different cognitive points and innovation points in the industry, rather than copying bits and pieces here and there and piecing them together." You can graduate." What's more interesting is that this concept is very attractive to customers. There was even a customer in Beijing who came to work in the company directly after finishing the decoration of his new house with TOALDO! Therefore, TOALDO's business philosophy on Xiaohongshu is completely opposite to that of the public: it does not seek "more", only "fine", and makes customer acquisition more and more vertical.

According to the usual thinking of merchants, the more customers the better, so the content must be easy to understand, interesting enough or eye-catching, and then filter out the ones that can make a deal. But every note in TOALDO is like a "paper". It uses a lot of professional language starting from the title, and uses 400-1000 words of text to elaborate on its design logic and concepts.

This may be confusing to the public, but for potential customers who really have design needs and identify with their tastes, it can resonate highly, thus highlighting TOALDO's differentiation and originality. In one year, TOALDO updated hundreds of notes and constantly came up with new ideas.

In addition, TOALDO does not only do villa design, but also other interior designs. However, these contents on Xiaohongshu are all based on high-end villas, which is tantamount to establishing one's own brand tone. In this way, TOALDO hits it off with precise customers, saving a lot of business costs and allowing the team to focus all their energy on design work.

So, how to reach those precise customer groups on Xiaohongshu? If you only rely on natural traffic, you will face the problem of unstable traffic, and no one can guarantee that every piece of your content will be a hit.

So paid placement is essential. Before 2022, TOALDO will use the function of Xiaohongshu French fries to heat up the notes that are currently performing well multiple times, bringing a stable source of customers. After 2022, in order to make crowd targeting more accurate and larger, TOALDO will put more emphasis on the launch of spotlight platforms, including information flow push and keyword search.

Similar to the Xingwei illustration mentioned above, TOALDO essentially retains money from customers, guides private message openings through notes, and then leads WeChat to connect with the subsequent sales process. It can be seen that a note written three years ago can still reach new customers and bring new inquiries and interactions after being repeatedly heated and posted.

As a service-oriented company, TOALDO does not worry too much about marketing strategies. In the future, the focus will be on the deepening of original design – a successful work is actually the best marketing material.

3. What solutions does Xiaohongshu provide for small and medium-sized businesses?

After reading the above trends and cases, the question that everyone is most concerned about must be: If you want to start a business in Xiaohongshu, what should you do specifically? In fact, Xiaohongshu has officially come up with a simple and easy implementation method. Next, we will interpret it based on the current survey results and the needs of small and medium-sized businesses for low threshold and quick returns.

First of all, the meaning of scientific insight is relatively straightforward: use data to determine which group of people do business on Xiaohongshu, which products sell better, and which selling points are more popular. From the perspective of the crowd, Xiaohongshu itself provides many unique crowd tags. From the spotlight platform, you can filter and match to locate your own audience. For example, here we first target "people who are interested in reading notes in the beauty and personal care industry", and then overlap with "people with high-interaction content content" + "people with high-interaction behavior in advertising" to select 145 million potential users.

From the perspective of products and selling points, good products sold through other channels may not necessarily be promoted on Xiaohongshu, so you need to look at data to make decisions. The spotlight platform also comes with a built-in function: keyword search data. This represents the user's demand for a certain precise selling point and product SKU, and also reflects the degree of market competition. Then we can find blue ocean spaces with large search volume and low competition.

Download and upload the data here to chat gpt, which helped me screen out high-potential opportunities within 2 minutes:

Secondly, goal setting is not complicated for small and medium-sized merchants: lower cost, larger scale customer acquisition, and directly promotes transaction conversion. The most mature links we have observed are three types, corresponding to the models of different merchants:

First, guide users to private messages for consultation, and then guide them to add WeChat. Basically, they obtain traffic through the operation and placement of official accounts: private domain sales, guidance into stores, etc. through WeChat customer service personnel. Suitable for clue collection and offline store categories

By cultivating content to create a certain amount of buzz, the traffic will overflow to the e-commerce platform, mainly relying on bloggers’ investment: users will go to e-commerce channels to search for keywords and make transactions in stores. Suitable for common fast moving consumer goods

Directly through content planting links, live streaming and other methods, we can guide you to the Xiaohongshu store to complete the transaction. Bloggers can place it or use official accounts: it is similar to the closed-loop logic of other e-commerce platforms. Suitable for common fast-moving consumer goods, as well as virtual products or services

The third step of content delivery is the most difficult. Most small and medium-sized businesses are stuck here: how to create content and how to accelerate growth through delivery? I don’t know if you have noticed that for many small and medium-sized businesses (including the three mentioned above) that perform well, the performance distribution of official account notes is very extreme. Most of them have only single digits of likes, while a few have tens of thousands of likes. In other words, 80% of traffic actually comes from 20% of popular notes. In addition, these well-performing notes are promoted all year round and continue to bring traffic.

Therefore, what we have to do is to find a way to quickly create a hot product that can bring goods, and then spend money to promote it until its traffic no longer increases. However, if your content production capabilities are not mature, how can you get started? Then we might as well start with "copying the homework" and see what the structure of the popular products is in the industry. For example, the Focus platform provides high-quality content insight tools, in which we can find a large number of replicable hits by industry and scenario.

Of course, if you really can’t do it, there is an easier way: invest in experts and buy content from experts. As mentioned before, KOC accounts for the majority of Xiaohongshu’s ecology, so the entry threshold will be lower. Any hot item has a cycle of decline, and no one can guarantee that hot items will come out every day. For content that has been verified by natural traffic, increasing investment can make long-term traffic more stable, so advertising is the only way to expand scale.

If you have just entered the game in the early stages and do not have a full-time advertising team, you can start with French fries and heat up potential notes to quickly obtain traffic, or use ARK to convert store transactions. The operation is very simple. When the brand gradually develops and there is a dedicated person responsible for the placement of Xiaohongshu, then you can try:

The spotlight platform uses finer granularity and more diverse scenes to capture traffic. What is more friendly to small and medium-sized businesses is that although the recharge threshold of Juguang is 2,000, after the first recharge of 5,000, the official will match a service team of 3-5 people to assist in optimizing the note content and setting up subsequent advertising plans. Don't worry about the entry threshold at all.

Dandelion platform, to cooperate with bloggers. You can allocate the proportion of budget to bloggers and spotlight placement based on your own content production capabilities. For example, if the account note content is small, you can allocate 60% of the budget to Dandelion and 40% to Spotlight; when your content becomes more popular and the brand's voice becomes louder, you can allocate 80% to Spotlight and 20% to Dandelion.

Multiple combinations: first use French fries to heat up the content, test which note is more popular, and then screen it out and put it in the spotlight; or use Dandelion to put multiple bloggers, find one with potential, and then spend money to heat up his content.

The last step is to measure the effect: see how much value Xiaohongshu grass planting has on sales performance, and only then can we plan the budget. Feng Di, Xiaohongshu’s commercial technical director, once told a case that clearly demonstrated the value of effect measurement.

There is an overseas designer home furnishing collection brand Cabana, which mainly uses private messages to attract customers to retain funds, and then guides them to offline stores for transactions. The ROI of placing products on Xiaohongshu is 2.34.

However, there are still many people who come to the store with Xiaohongshu notes and ask about the same style, and they are not the customers who came from the advertisement.

This shows that Xiaohongshu’s grass planting has caused traffic overflow, but how much is the actual overflow? Later, through the newly launched data insight product, Cabana did some calculations and found that the ROI of the whole domain during the Xiaohongshu investment period reached 39! Sometimes the input and output of Xiaohongshu may seem ordinary on the surface, but after careful calculation, it can indeed be invested heavily.

Summarize

We believe that no matter how big or small a company is, it must have its own market strategic plan and think clearly before taking advantage of the trend. Therefore, we first sorted out the logic for entering Xiaohongshu:

Low entry threshold: weak head effect, low production cost of graphic notes, low advertising budget

Can make money: high-net-worth women are concentrated, sinking cities and male penetration are increasing, and a large number of segmented needs are unmet

Secondly, in order to more concretely demonstrate how small and medium-sized businesses can achieve success in Xiaohongshu, we also dissected three cases:

Education and training industry: Xingwei Illustrations solves the problems of online customer acquisition and enrollment by leveraging its own content capabilities and cooperation.

Fragrance industry: Fu Ke, planning marketing rhythm according to solar terms and creating hot products, resulting in rapid growth of Xiaohongshu e-commerce conversion

Home decoration industry: TOALDO does not follow the popular route, but digs deep into professional vertical fields to screen out more precise decoration customers.

[local-legal-marketing]

9. Instilling Marketing Mindsets Firm-Wide

Law firms today face more competition than ever before. Despite having expertise and capabilities, many struggle to consistently attract new clients. The issue often comes down to a lack of a pervasive marketing mindset across the firm. Missed Opportunities and Stalled Growth Too many law firms still see marketing as one person’s job. This leaves lawyers unmotivated to leverage their contacts, expertise, and activities to generate new business. Without a shared commitment to securing new clients, firms miss out on opportunities and growth stalls. The following is a DRAMATIZATION AND IS NOT AN ACTUAL EVENT: One firm had lawyers attend five industry conferences last month. Though lawyers made valuable connections, few meaningful conversations happened because attorneys didn’t view lead generation as part of their role. No follow-up took place and ripe opportunities evaporated. Instilling a Marketing Mindset Law firms wanting to tap new opportunities must build a culture where everyone understands marketing and contributes to the effort. Leadership Buy-In and Modeling Initiatives flounder without backed leaders motivating teams. Partners must vocally embrace marketing, discuss it positively in firm meetings, hold employees accountable for marketing metrics, and tie compensation to new business development. The following is a DRAMATIZATION AND IS NOT AN ACTUAL EVENT: One managing partner started bi-weekly emails highlighting a successful marketing activity. This kept marketing top of mind. He also convinced fellow partners to devote 15% of quarterly meetings to celebrating marketing wins. Marketing Training People support what they understand. Firms must train lawyers and staff on marketing basics through workshops, guest speakers, and bite-sized lunch & learns. This builds understanding fast. The following is a DRAMATIZATION AND IS NOT AN ACTUAL EVENT: A firm hired a marketing consultant to deliver a high-energy 2-hour intro to a marketing workshop. 95% of attendees said it helped them finally grasp effective marketing and their role. The presentation now runs quarterly for new hires. Building Habit & Culture Instilling mindsets happens through repeated experiences cementing concepts. To ingrain marketing, firms should celebrate marketing wins, publish marketing tip newsletters, use collaboration tools, and incorporate marketing responsibilities and skill assessments into hiring. Individual Empowerment Giving everyone, even administrative assistants, small marketing goals tailors the mindset shift to individuals. Assign mentors to advise on networking, content creation, and other duties. Recognize top marketing contributors to motivate participation. The following is a DRAMATIZATION AND IS NOT AN ACTUAL EVENT: One practice group assistant took on hosting quarterly luncheons for top clients. This led to the introduction of several cross-sell opportunities. The chairman sent a firm-wide congratulations email on the assistant's initiative. Addressing Concerns Overworked Lawyers Lawyers often cite having no time for marketing. Firms must help lawyers see marketing as supporting billing goals by building visibility and referrals. Small consistent efforts are key. Billing Focus To prevent marketing from distracting from billing targets, tie compensation to both. Lawyers see monetary rewards from marketing activity measured on top of billing requirements. This balances priorities. Leveraging Thought Leadership to Attract Clients In competitive markets, legal expertise alone is rarely enough. Savvy law firms use thought leadership to stand out. But what generates success? Client-focused content and consistency. Certainly, in today's fiercely competitive legal landscape, possessing legal expertise alone is seldom sufficient to thrive. Successful law firms distinguish themselves through thought leadership. To achieve this, they prioritize creating client-centric content and maintaining a consistent presence in the legal arena. This strategic approach not only helps them stand out but also fosters trust and engagement with their clientele. Lacking Focus Many firms muddle thought leadership. Lawyers write to impress peers not guide clients. Fancy jargon floods articles with no helpful advice. Content lacks regularity and relevance to buyers. The following is a DRAMATIZATION AND IS NOT AN ACTUAL EVENT: One firm set a goal for lawyers to write monthly articles. But lawyers focused on esoteric legal issues rather than business impacts. The content was too complex for clients and did nothing to attract work. Client-Focused Topics The best thought leadership directly helps buyers make decisions. Analyze target clients’ needs to identify issues keeping them up at night. Develop focused content addressing real-world concerns and guidance. Consistency Converts Sporadic posts don’t build mind share. Consistently publishing client-focused advice on blogs, news sites, and other channels generates interest. Converting follows. The following is a DRAMATIZATION AND IS NOT AN ACTUAL EVENT: One firm implemented an integrated thought leadership initiative publishing 2-3 new pieces monthly focused specifically on emerging client issues. Referrals jumped 46% year-over-year from content-converting readers to buyers. The Winning Combination When legal expertise intersects with buyer needs, new relationships follow. By publishing regular, practical content for clients rather than random esoteric issues, law firms attract more work using thought leadership. The approach simply works – schedule your online publication assessment to get rolling! The Bottom Line By instilling marketing mindsets firm-wide through leadership, training, culture, and empowerment, law firms can unlock new business opportunities. Imagine having an embedded capability to consistently attract clients rather than losing opportunities from internal capability gaps. Isn’t that compelling? The time is now – contact us for help building a marketing mindset culture tailored to your firm! Read the full article

[beardedmrbean]

PM Petteri Orpo's (NCP) government is already putting its austerity gears in motion. First up are changes to unemployment benefits, according to tabloid Iltalehti.

The government programme calls for earnings-related unemployment benefits to require 12 months of prior employment, instead of the current six. Other changes to unemployment benefits, such as decreasing benefit levels, will take longer to put into place, according to IL.

The level of earnings-related unemployment benefits will be staggered from the current level, so that after eight weeks of unemployment, the support decreases to 80 percent of the original amount, and after 34 weeks, to 75 percent of the initial amount.

Citing its own sources, the paper suggests that these reforms will come into effect during 2024.

Other planned changes include limits to industrial action and expansions to local labour agreements between employers and employees.

A crowded space

Next year's presidential race will be a 'fierce battle,' newspaper Ilta-Sanomat reports on Friday, citing its latest poll which suggests votes splitting among right-wing parties.

Green MP and ex-foreign minister Pekka Haavisto is a frontrunner, with 52 percent of survey participants saying they could imagine voting for him.

Mika Aaltola, the Director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, is the second most popular candidate (36%), but EU professor and former PM Alexander Stubb (NCP) is almost on par with him (35%). Not far behind them is Olli Rehn (Centre), the Governor of the Bank of Finland (33%).

Jussi Halla-aho (Finns), the Speaker of the Parliament, had a 20 percent backing among respondents.

"On the right, there seems to be increasing competition among the candidates, especially with Jussi Halla-aho in the mix," said Tuomo Turja, research director at pollster Taloustutkimus.

Industry perks

Helsingin Sanomat's big story on Friday features a report by environmental group Transport & Environment (T&E), which suggests that low taxes in the aviation sector caused Finland losses of 390 million euros last year. Across Europe, lost revenue amounted to 34.2 billion euros, according to HS, citing the T&E report.

Heikki Liimatainen, a transport expert at Tampere University, said the NGO's figures seemed plausible, noting that tax exemptions for aviation are often justified by the positive economic impacts of tourism.

"It's no secret that aviation is strongly supported through tax exemptions, which significantly impact the price of flying," he told the paper.

[epkrealty]

Before signing a commercial lease, keep these 9 essential factors in mind

Renting a residential home and leasing a commercial property for rent in Chennai present stark differences. Commercial leasing entails larger premises, higher rent, and increased agency costs, leading to a greater overall investment. Additionally, residential agreements typically last for 11 months, while commercial B2B or B2C agreements span longer periods. Given these complexities, it is essential to thoroughly examine these factors before finalizing a property choice. For those newly renting a commercial property, engaging a professional commercial property management company is highly recommended.

The real estate sector in India is fiercely competitive, making careful negotiation of rent agreements for commercial properties crucial. Familiarizing oneself with the right questions to ask and relevant laws for one's specific organization is essential to avoid costly mistakes and save money. The Transfer of Property Act governs all commercial property rent/lease agreements, and having a commercial property management company by your side can simplify the process and bring convenience to your life.

A commercial rental agreement involves leasing a property for commercial purposes, such as a store, office, industry, or other commercial structures. Unlike other contracts, retail leasing agreements lack a standardized format and can be tailored to fit specific needs, as long as essential elements are included. By employing a professional commercial property management company, all leasing aspects are expertly handled, ensuring a smooth and efficient process."

Signing a commercial space for rent in Chennai  is a significant step for any business owner. It involves entering into a legally binding contract that dictates the terms and conditions of your business's tenancy. Before putting pen to paper, it is essential to carefully consider various factors to ensure the lease aligns with your business needs and protects your interests. Here are nine critical things to bear in mind before signing a commercial lease:

Lease Terms and Duration: Thoroughly review the lease terms and understand the duration of the agreement. Commercial leases can vary in length, typically ranging from one to ten years. Ensure the lease's duration aligns with your business plans and growth projections.

Rent and Additional Costs: Be clear about the total rental amount and any additional costs, such as maintenance fees, property taxes, or insurance. Understand how rent increases will be calculated over the lease term and budget accordingly.

Location and Space: Carefully assess the location of the commercial property and how it aligns with your target market, accessibility for clients and employees, and proximity to suppliers or partners. Ensure that the space adequately accommodates your business operations.

Lease Flexibility: Consider whether the lease allows for any necessary changes or expansions to meet the evolving needs of your business. Flexibility is crucial to accommodate growth or downsizing, should the need arise.

Repairs and Maintenance: Understand your responsibilities regarding repairs and maintenance of the leased premises. Determine whether maintenance tasks fall under your obligations or the landlord's, and if any costs are involved.

Subleasing and Assignment: Check if the lease allows you to sublease the space or assign the lease to another business if necessary. This flexibility can be advantageous if you anticipate changes in your business circumstances.

Lease Termination: Review the lease termination clauses and understand the conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement. Consider negotiating exit terms that provide flexibility and minimize potential financial penalties.

Legal Review: Engage a legal professional experienced in commercial leases to review the document thoroughly. This step will help you understand any potential pitfalls and ensure your rights and interests are protected.

Negotiation: Remember that commercial leases are often negotiable. Don't hesitate to discuss terms with the landlord or their representative. Negotiation can lead to mutually beneficial adjustments that better suit your business's unique needs.

In conclusion, signing a commercial lease is a critical decision that can significantly impact your business's success and financial health. Take the time to carefully review the lease terms, seek legal advice, and negotiate where necessary to ensure a favorable and secure tenancy for your business.