How to Choose the Best Virtual Business Bank Account?

The way we manage money has evolved rapidly over the past decade. Gone are the days when you had to visit a physical branch for every banking need. Today, many entrepreneurs are turning to virtual business bank accounts to streamline operations, reduce fees, and keep pace with a digital-first world.

But which virtual bank account is right for you—especially if you have $10,000 or more …or less to deposit? What if you are just starting? In this extended companion, we’ll explore the pros and cons of virtual banking, top account options, and what to watch out for as you grow your business.

The Shift from Brick & Mortar to Virtual Business Bank Accounts

A Changing Financial Landscape

Traditional brick-and-mortar banking used to be the gold standard for business owners. You’d walk in, meet a teller, and handle transactions face-to-face. However, the rise of fintech (financial technology) has revolutionized the way businesses manage their finances. Now, you can open an account, transfer funds, and even deposit checks—all without leaving your office.

Advantages of Virtual Banking

• Lower Fees: Online banks often have reduced overhead costs, which can translate to fewer or lower fees.

• 24/7 Accessibility: Manage your account around the clock, from anywhere with internet access.

• Streamlined Processes: Automated workflows for invoicing, payroll, and expense management integrate seamlessly with most virtual banks.

Potential Downsides

• Limited Physical Access: Depositing large sums of cash or handling urgent matters might be more complicated without a local branch.

• Customer Service Challenges: Some online banks rely heavily on email or chat support, which may not be ideal for urgent issues.

• Learning Curve: Adopting new platforms and technologies can take time, especially if you’re used to in-person banking.

Key Considerations for Virtual Business Bank Accounts

1. FDIC Insurance
   Make sure the bank you choose is FDIC-insured so your deposits (up to $250,000) are protected. This helps mitigate risk if the bank ever faces financial issues.

2. Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements
   Pay close attention to transaction fees, monthly fees, and minimum balance requirements. While many online banks have lower fees than traditional banks, it’s crucial to read the fine print.

3. Access to Cash
   If your business deals with physical cash, check for ATM networks or partner institutions that enable hassle-free cash deposits and withdrawals.

4. Technology Integration
   The best virtual business bank accounts offer integrations with accounting software (like QuickBooks or Xero), payment processors, and other tools you already use to keep your financials in sync.

5. Customer Support
   Look for robust support channels. Some online banks have limited phone support, which might be problematic if you need immediate help.

6. Bank Failure Protocols
   With any bank—virtual or traditional—understanding what happens in case of a bank failure can save you stress. Ensure you know about FDIC insurance, backup systems, and how quickly you can access your funds in an emergency.

Best Virtual Business Bank Accounts for Deposits of $10,000 or More

1. Mercury

Why Mercury Stands Out

• Heavily Focused on Startups and Tech Companies: Mercury is designed with modern, fast-growing businesses in mind, offering tools that cater specifically to startups.

• No Monthly Fees or Minimum Balances: Ideal for businesses that want to avoid hidden costs. Even if you’re depositing more than $10,000, you won’t be penalized if your balance dips occasionally.

• Robust Integrations: Mercury integrates seamlessly with platforms like Stripe, QuickBooks, and PayPal, making it easy to manage incoming and outgoing payments.

• Virtual Debit Cards: Instantly create virtual cards for online expenses, offering better security and easy tracking.

• FDIC Insured via Partner Banks: Mercury partners with multiple institutions, distributing your funds across them to maximize FDIC coverage beyond the standard $250,000 limit if your balances grow.

Potential Drawbacks

• No Direct Cash Deposit: Mercury doesn’t support direct cash deposits, which can be an issue if your business regularly handles physical currency.

• Limited International Options: While Mercury does support domestic and international wires, the platform is primarily focused on U.S. banking solutions.

Marketing Note: If you’re a growing entrepreneur looking for a sleek, tech-forward solution, Mercury is a go-to choice. They pride themselves on customer-centric design, making it simpler than ever to manage your finances.

2. Bluevine (A Financial Advisor and Attorney’s Perspective)

Why Bluevine Is a Strong Option

• High-Interest Checking: Bluevine’s business checking often offers competitive interest rates, enabling you to earn money on your balance.

• Easy Online Application: The streamlined application process lets you open an account in just a few minutes—no tedious paperwork required.

• FDIC Insured: Through Bluevine’s banking partner, your balance (up to $250,000) is protected.

• Broad ATM Network: Bluevine offers fee-free access to a large network of ATMs, which can be a lifesaver if you need cash on the go.

• Bill Pay Features: Robust bill payment options let you settle invoices quickly and securely.

Potential Drawbacks

• Fees for Certain Transactions: Be mindful of fees for outgoing wires or excess transactions.

• Limited Cash Deposit Options: Similar to many online accounts, depositing cash can be more complicated.

Attorney & Advisor Insight: Bluevine’s emphasis on high-yield checking and straightforward digital tools can help you optimize your cash flow. Just keep track of any fees that may chip away at your earnings.

Should You Keep Money in a Local Brick-and-Mortar Bank?

While virtual accounts excel in accessibility and lower fees, having a local bank account can still be beneficial. Physical branches allow you to quickly deposit cash, obtain certified checks, and handle urgent banking matters face-to-face. A balanced approach—where you keep a portion of your funds in an online account and a portion in a local bank—offers the best of both worlds. This way, you’re not locked out of traditional banking services in case of emergencies or widespread technology outages.

What Happens If There Is a Bank Failure?

Financial institutions are heavily regulated, and most reputable online banks ensure your deposits up to $250,000 are FDIC-insured. If the bank fails, the FDIC typically reimburses you promptly for your insured funds. However, any funds above the insured limit could be at risk if the bank collapses. That’s why it’s vital to confirm FDIC coverage and avoid single institutions if you’re managing large balances.

For Businesses with Less Than $10,000: Consider Novo Bank

If your business hasn’t hit the $10,000 mark just yet, Novo Bank is a solid alternative. Novo is designed for freelancers, small business owners, and entrepreneurs who are just starting to grow their revenue.

Why Novo Bank Is a Good Fit

• No Hidden Fees: Novo aims for transparency with no monthly fees and free ACH transfers.

• Easy-to-Use App: Manage your finances on the go with Novo’s intuitive mobile interface.

• Stripe and QuickBooks Integration: Simplify invoicing and accounting without leaving the app.

• Multiple Perks: Novo frequently partners with popular services (like Slack, HubSpot, and others) to offer discounts and promos that help you run your business more efficiently.

Potential Downsides

• Limited Cash Handling: As with most digital banks, depositing large amounts of physical cash can be a hurdle.

• Wire Transfer Fees: Outgoing wire fees may apply, so review the terms carefully.

Key Takeaways:

Choosing the best virtual business bank account largely depends on your deposit size, transaction habits, and tech-savviness. Concerned about safety? Make sure you pick a bank with FDIC insurance and read up on their security measures. Wondering if you should split your funds between multiple banks?

Many entrepreneurs diversify across more than one institution to spread risk and tap into different perks. Worried about cash deposits? A local branch account or a bank with a user-friendly ATM network might be a good backup plan. Wondering how to grow your money while it sits in an account? Look for high-interest checking or savings options, and check for potential fees to ensure your gains aren’t offset by hidden charges.

In the end, virtual banking can be a powerful tool if you choose the right platform. Whether you’re eyeing Mercury for its tech-forward features, Bluevine for its higher interest rates, or Novo for its beginner-friendly approach, do your homework and stay vigilant about security. Combine strong digital options with a traditional backup, and you’ll have the flexibility to weather any financial storms while keeping your business running smoothly.

Is User-Generated Content (UGC) Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Expert Strategies

Ever wonder how your customers’ own voices can drive your brand’s growth? You’re not alone. In this Q&A, a Founder, a VP of Growth, and other pros spill their secrets on leveraging User-Generated Content (UGC) to build trust and boost sales.

From tips on improving conversion rates to tapping into TikTok Shop creators, these nine expert insights will help you transform customer stories into marketing gold. Ready to learn how the pros do it? Let’s dive in.

1. UGC Boosts Conversion Rates and Sales

UGC (User-Generated Content) is like a friend’s recommendation—it just feels more genuine. Positive reviews, testimonials, and even photos from real customers can dramatically increase your conversion rates because people see evidence that your product or service actually works. Think of it as social proof on steroids.

“UGC has been transformative for us at Sirge.com, especially in elevating Shopify brands. A roadblock we faced was in getting consistent high-quality content from users. 

To solve this, we set up an automated email sequence triggering post-purchase that incentivized users with discounts for submitting photos or videos of them using the products. This not only improved the content quality but also increased its frequency. By focusing on creating a seamless process for customers to share content, we replicated these results with other clients, proving that UGC is not only a trend but a measurable way to improve trust and engagement.”
Chase Chappell, Founder, Sirge

2. Do UGC Campaigns Often Fail?

It’s exciting to imagine your fans enthusiastically posting rave reviews, but the reality can be different. Sometimes campaigns flop because they’re too complicated, lack clear instructions, or simply don’t inspire genuine participation. If you don’t tackle those issues early on, your UGC efforts might never get off the ground.

Many brands launch UGC campaigns with sky-high hopes, only to find that reality can be much harsher than anticipated. Often, this happens because objectives aren’t clearly defined—if you don’t know whether your goal is to boost sales, increase brand awareness, or drive engagement, you’ll struggle to measure success.

Another common pitfall is failing to connect with what truly motivates your audience: a campaign that doesn’t resonate with their interests won’t inspire meaningful participation.

Timing can also throw a wrench into your plans; launching a UGC push during a busy holiday season, for example, may bury your message under a mountain of competing promotions. Complicated rules and vague instructions further discourage submissions. Even if your campaign instructions are clear, inadequate promotion can leave potential participants in the dark.

Perhaps the biggest oversight is neglecting to follow through after you collect the content—if you don’t show gratitude or highlight user contributions, you lose a valuable opportunity to nurture lasting connections and goodwill.

To overcome these hurdles, start by setting clear, measurable goals so you’ll know exactly what you’re aiming for, whether that’s increasing your number of UGC submissions or boosting clicks to a specific landing page. Speak the language of your audience and create campaigns that align with their values—whether that’s fun, creativity, or a sense of community.

Make it easy for them to join in by offering simple, straightforward guidelines, and make sure your campaign is visible on multiple channels, from social posts and emails to influencer shout-outs.

Finally, show genuine appreciation for participants by featuring their contributions publicly, awarding small prizes, or offering personal shout-outs. By tackling these challenges head-on and implementing solutions that speak to real-world user behavior, you set the stage for a dynamic UGC campaign that resonates, engages, and ultimately drives results.

3. Clear Guidelines Ensure Quality UGC

Providing straightforward dos and don’ts sets everyone up for success. Your audience appreciates a roadmap for what you’re looking for—whether it’s image size, video length, or brand messaging. Clear guidelines help ensure the end result is polished, on-brand, and ultimately usable in your marketing.

“We've used UGC to showcase real customer experiences with our services, creating authentic and relatable content that drives engagement. For instance, we've encouraged homeowners to share their savings stories, which we've turned into testimonials and short-form videos for social media and ads.

A roadblock we encountered was ensuring the quality of UGC matched our brand standards. To solve this, we provided contributors with clear guidelines and storyboards, helping them maintain authenticity while delivering content that aligned with our messaging.

My advice: Make it easy for users to share their stories and offer light direction to ensure quality without stifling creativity.”
Jason Martin, VP of Growth, Abode

4. Engage Authentically in Reddit Communities

Reddit can be a goldmine for user insights, but authenticity is non-negotiable. Rather than selling, focus on connecting. Answer questions, offer honest feedback, and be transparent about your brand. People on Reddit have a radar for anything spammy, so your best move is to join conversations like a genuine community member.

“I've used Reddit to market an AI automation tool, primarily by engaging in communities and threads where people discuss related problems and solutions. Reddit's strength lies in its authenticity—users value honest, helpful contributions, and I've tried to respect that by focusing on adding real value rather than simply promoting my product. As a marketer, that's really really important. 

A big challenge has been finding a way around strict moderation. It's there for a reason—many people flood subreddits with blatant self-promotion, which understandably frustrates communities. But this also means that even if your response is thoughtful and genuinely helpful, there's still a risk of getting flagged or banned. 

I've learned to work around this by being intentional about how I participate. Instead of jumping in with, "Hey, use my tool," I approach each post or question as a fellow user. I think, "What would I want to hear if I were in their position?" This means offering advice or sharing insights without even mentioning the product. If I do reference it, I make sure it's only as one possible solution and focus on why it might help in their specific situation. 

This has been slow work—it's not a quick ROI kind of strategy—but it's meaningful. It's taught me to really listen, to step away from a "sales" mindset, and to respect the communities I'm engaging with. When people respond positively, or better yet, when they come back later to thank me, it reminds me that UGC isn't just about marketing; it's about building trust. And that takes time.”
Sakshi Chetule, Growth Strategy

5. Incentives Encourage Customer Participation in UGC

Need more content from your customers? Sweeten the deal. Small perks like discounts, freebies, or even public recognition can go a long way. When customers feel appreciated for their contributions, they’re far more likely to create—and share—great content that benefits your brand.

“One roadblock we encountered was the initial reluctance of customers to participate in UGC campaigns. Many were unsure about sharing their experiences publicly or felt their content wasn't "good enough." To address this, we launched a campaign that included incentives, such as discounts or entry into a sweepstakes for those who shared their content using our designated hashtag. We also showcased UGC on our website and social channels, highlighting the contributions of participants to encourage more involvement.

This strategy not only increased the volume of UGC we received but also fostered a sense of belonging among our customers, making them feel valued and appreciated. By overcoming this hurdle, we significantly enhanced our brand's visibility and engagement, demonstrating the power of community-driven marketing.”
Sheraz Ali, Founder & CEO, HARO Links Builder

6. TikTok Shop Creators Provide Affordable UGC

TikTok is all about creativity and authenticity, making it a perfect channel for UGC. Collaborate with TikTok Shop creators for affordable, relatable content that speaks to a massive audience. The best part? You don’t need a Hollywood budget—just authentic partnerships and engaging ideas.

“UGC is one of the cheapest marketing options out there, but the big issue? Quality often sucks because there's no incentive to create good content.

Paid creators are great but pricey, and the ROI can be hard to justify, and not often it'll be profitable if you calculate ad cost and usage rights in.

How we solve it is by reaching out to creators who are used to working on affiliates, specifically TikTok Shop creators. They're used to working on affiliate commissions, so you only pay for results. They're affordable, authentic, and know how to create content that actually converts. Plus, you can test a bunch of styles without breaking the bank.”
Victor Hsi, Founder & Community Manager, UGC Creator Agency

Don’t underestimate the power of UGC—it’s the modern-day word-of-mouth, fueling trust and boosting your bottom line. Curious how to get started without overwhelming your audience? Begin with simple approaches and a small incentive, then scale as you see engagement rise.

Worried about trolls or negative feedback? Address concerns openly and use constructive criticism to refine your product or message. Unsure if TikTok Shop is worth it? Experiment with micro-influencers to see if short-form video resonates with your community.

Think Reddit might be too tricky? Dive in authentically, offer real value and watch how fast people respond to genuine engagement. By staying transparent, offering incentives, and embracing new platforms, you’ll harness the true potential of your customers’ voices.

Seasonal Dropshipping: How to Keep Your Brand Fresh and Profitable Year-Round

Integrating dropshipping products into your brand can offer flexibility and variety without the need to hold inventory. Yet, keeping these products cohesive with your brand requires a strategic, year-round approach. Here, we’ll break down practical steps to align dropshipping products with your brand’s identity and offer seasonal strategies to help you stay relevant to your customers through the year.

For many new entrepreneurs, dropshipping is often viewed as a quick, low-risk way to launch an online store without the need to manage inventory or shipping. But dropshipping isn’t a “get rich quick” business model that fits every need or vision for brand growth. Understanding this can set you apart from the countless online stores offering the same dropshipping products.

For dropshipping beginners, tools like Spocket simplify the process by connecting your store to reliable suppliers worldwide. With access to thousands of high-quality products and fast shipping options, Spocket is a solid foundation as you establish your dropshipping business. But remember, dropshipping should be a strategic element in your brand’s journey, rather than the end goal.

While dropshipping does have advantages—low upfront costs, flexibility, and the chance to test a wide range of products—it's important to think of it as a stepping stone, rather than a permanent pivot, in your business journey. Relying solely on dropshipping can limit your control over crucial factors like product quality, shipping times, and customer satisfaction, all of which are vital to brand reputation. When dropshipping, you're essentially at the mercy of suppliers. If they encounter inventory issues or delays, your brand’s credibility can suffer, leaving customers disappointed and potentially harming your hard-earned trust.

Moreover, dropshipping tends to yield lower profit margins because you’re splitting revenues with the supplier. As your brand grows, you’ll want to create higher-margin opportunities, which often come from offering your own products and managing the shipping process yourself. Taking control of your supply chain allows you to provide a unique customer experience, maintain quality control, and tailor every aspect of your brand.

Typically it’s best for the longevity and customer centric perspective to integrate dropshipping products seamlessly into your brand with a seasonal approach. You’ll learn to use dropshipping to complement your brand’s existing products or serve as a testing ground for new ideas. But remember, dropshipping should be a strategic part of your brand’s journey—not the final destination. Now, let’s explore how to make dropshipping work for you without losing sight of the big picture.

1. Defining Your Brand’s Identity

Before adding dropshipping products, establish a solid brand foundation:

• Identify Core Values: List out the key values your brand represents, such as sustainability, innovation, or affordability.

• Target Audience Persona: Define your ideal customer to ensure the products resonate with their needs and lifestyle.

• Visual Cohesion: Think about your brand’s aesthetic—colors, fonts, and style. These elements should be consistent, whether for dropshipped or owned products.

Pro Tip:

Create a style guide for dropshipping suppliers to follow. It can help ensure visuals, descriptions, and promotional strategies align with your brand’s identity.

2. Seasonal Product Integration Strategy

Integrating seasonal products is an effective way to keep customers engaged year-round. Let’s dive into each season’s strategy.

Selective Dropshipping for Demand Testing

“We're a supplement retailer; we carry over 5,000 SKUs and have a warehouse. However, we do drop ship with some select products. This is sometimes for new brands that want to get their name out there but aren't big enough for us to want to buy inventory, so they'll drop-ship for us while we gauge demand. We also have a drop shipper who ships large bulk bags of plain whey protein, i.e., 50- and 100-pound bags, and those are drop shipped for us, which saves on expensive shipping costs to us, only to be re-shipped out to our customers.”

John Frigo, eCommerce Manager, Best Price Nutrition

Spring: Fresh Beginnings and Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Consider using DropGenius to find trending, eco-friendly products that align with the fresh start of spring. Its AI-powered recommendations can help you identify high-demand, sustainable items that resonate with environmentally conscious customers.

• Product Ideas: Spring-cleaning products, eco-friendly items, gardening tools, outdoor gear, and wellness products.

• Brand Connection: Spring is associated with renewal, so focus on products that support a fresh start or eco-conscious lifestyle.

• Marketing Tips: Host a “Spring Refresh” campaign, highlighting dropshipping products that align with new beginnings and environmental awareness.

Summer: Adventure and Outdoor Fun

For summer’s outdoor focus, Smartli can elevate your product descriptions by tailoring them to adventure and travel themes, making your items more enticing. With Smartli’s SEO-optimized content, you’ll capture attention and boost summer sales effortlessly.

• Product Ideas: Beachwear, outdoor games, travel accessories, fitness gear, and lightweight apparel.

• Brand Connection: Summer often means travel, adventure, and outdoor activities. Curate products that inspire fun and practicality for your audience.

• Marketing Tips: Create a “Summer Essentials” collection or bundle. Leverage influencers for lifestyle photos of dropshipping products in use. Run limited-time promotions for Father’s Day, July 4th, or summer vacation season.

Fall: Cozy Comforts and Back-to-School

• Product Ideas: Cozy clothing, home décor, study essentials, tech gadgets, and kitchen tools for fall recipes.

• Brand Connection: Fall is the season for comfort, warmth, and preparing for cooler days. Products should reflect that theme while adding value.

• Marketing Tips: A “Back-to-Comfort” campaign can tap into the back-to-school and cozy vibes. Showcase drop-shipped items that help people settle into the fall season, from comfy blankets to home décor.

Winter: Holidays and New Year’s Resolutions

Winter is the perfect time to leverage DropGenius for holiday and New Year’s products, identifying what’s trending in gifts and wellness. For added visibility, use Smartli to create compelling descriptions that highlight these items as ideal gifts or New Year’s essentials, encouraging last-minute sales.

• Product Ideas: Winter apparel, fitness gear, holiday decorations, personal development tools, and kitchen gadgets.

• Brand Connection: Winter focuses on holidays, warmth, family gatherings, and New Year’s resolutions. Products should cater to gifting needs or support new beginnings.

• Marketing Tips: Plan ahead with holiday promotions, including Black Friday and Christmas gift guides. Use dropshipping to scale product offerings without over-investing. In the New Year, focus on “New Year, New You” promotions with health and wellness products.

3. Curate Products That Tell a Consistent Brand Story

Choose dropshipping items that complement each season but still fit the overall narrative of your brand:

• Brand-Driven Storytelling: Integrate storytelling into product descriptions, blogs, and social media. Explain how each product fits into your brand and why it’s relevant to your audience’s lifestyle.

• Visual Cohesion: Use consistent photography styles and templates. When possible, get custom images from suppliers or influencers that match your brand’s look.

• Cross-Selling Opportunities: Create bundles or suggest complementary products. Dropshipping can help expand offerings without upfront costs, allowing you to test what resonates with customers.

4. Building a Brand Experience with Dropshipping

To create a seamless experience:

• Use Custom Packaging or Inserts: Some suppliers offer custom packaging options, even for dropshipping. Add a branded touch to elevate the unboxing experience.

• Leverage Email Marketing: Segment email lists based on customer behavior, such as previous seasonal purchases. Promote upcoming seasonal collections and offer early-bird discounts for loyal customers.

• Customer Support: Prioritize customer service by communicating clear return policies and tracking information to maintain customer trust.

Pro Tip:

Set up automated emails for each season, showcasing new seasonal products that align with your customers’ interests.

5. Keeping Inventory and Supplier Relationships in Check

Dropshipping allows flexibility but requires strong supplier relationships:

• Product Quality Checks: Order samples to ensure product quality aligns with your brand.

• Consistent Supplier Communication: Maintain a strong relationship with suppliers, so they’re aware of seasonal demands and can accommodate your needs.

• Seasonal Inventory Planning: Check stock availability with suppliers ahead of each season. Limited seasonal products can create urgency but ensure availability to avoid frustrating customers.

Strategic Dropshipping for Product Validation

“As the founder of an online skincare brand, I have used dropshipping to test new products before fully integrating them into our lineup. For example, when we were exploring a new retinol-based serum, we did a limited dropship campaign to gauge customer interest before manufacturing it ourselves. The pros were low risk and overhead, while the cons were lack of quality control and profit margins. 

Once we saw the strong response, we manufactured the serum and now offer it as a core product. Dropshipping allowed us to validate the concept at a low cost, though we prefer manufacturing products in-house when possible. Our brand is built on natural, non-toxic ingredients, so dropshipping synthetic products wouldn't align with our values.

For seasonal items with a short lifespan like holiday gift sets, dropshipping makes sense since we'd only sell them for a limited time. We can test different options to see what resonates best with our customers before investing in large-scale production. The downside is that dropshipped items may feel less cohesive with our brand image, though, with care taken in product curation and marketing, this can be minimized.

Overall, dropshipping has strategic uses for testing and seasonality, but as an emerging brand, we prefer to manufacture high-quality products in-house when able to have full control over the customer experience. The pros of higher profit margins and brand cohesion outweigh the cons of upfront investment and risk. With experience, dropshipping and in-house production can be balanced for optimal success.”

Ashley Gawley, CEO, Glow Therapy

With careful planning, dropshipping can become a valuable part of your brand, allowing you to offer products that resonate with customers’ seasonal needs and fit seamlessly into your brand identity. Keep your branding consistent, tailor your offerings to seasonal trends, and nurture customer relationships to create a loyal audience that sees your brand as a year-round resource.

Tools like DropGenius, Smartli, and Spocket are designed to streamline the dropshipping process and add value to your business model. As you build momentum, these platforms can act as the foundation for your product selection, content creation, and supplier network, supporting your growth until you’re ready to develop your own unique product line.

Integrating dropshipping products can be an incredible asset to your brand when used strategically and seasonally, allowing you to stay relevant and offer variety without overwhelming your resources. With the seasonal approach outlined here, you can keep your offerings fresh, meet your customers’ evolving needs, and build strong engagement year-round.

However, as your brand grows and customers look to you as a trusted source, think about moving beyond dropshipping. Developing your own line of products or taking greater control over your supply chain can transform your business from a simple online store into a reputable, independent brand. This evolution not only boosts profit margins but also grants you full control over quality and logistics, minimizing the risks of delayed shipments, out-of-stock items, or fluctuating product quality—all common pitfalls with dropshipping suppliers.

In the end, dropshipping is a powerful way to enhance and test your brand’s offerings without the typical overhead. But the ultimate goal should be to leverage it as a springboard toward a more stable, profitable business model where you call the shots on customer experience. By thoughtfully using dropshipping as a supplementary strategy, you can drive steady growth, maintain your brand’s unique identity, and set yourself up for long-term success.

Beyond the Brokerage: Development Strategies Every Real Estate Agent Should Embrace

In real estate, success isn’t solely about property sales or market transactions—it’s about developing oneself to deliver real value to clients. While brokerage-provided training offers a foundation, personal development as an agent, independent of the brokerage, can make a real difference in building trust and ensuring career growth. From mastering market trends to embracing fiduciary responsibility. Every agent should focus on their growth outside the brokerage walls.

Understanding Market Trends: The Core of Agent Success

A primary skill that every real estate professional should continually develop is the ability to read and interpret the market. Real estate markets are highly dynamic, with shifts influenced by interest rates, local economic factors, and even global events. By staying ahead and understanding these trends, agents can provide their clients with accurate, valuable insights, rather than simply following broker trends or hearsay.

Learning to analyze market reports, understanding economic indicators, and staying updated on local housing demands can set you apart as a trusted advisor. Remember, not every client needs you for the transaction. But every client expects you to perform better than what they can do or know on their own.

For example, an agent who understands the impact of fluctuating mortgage rates and economic reasoning on buyer behavior will be better equipped to guide clients on the right timing for buying or selling. This knowledge elevates your role beyond that of a typical salesperson to a strategic consultant who can anticipate and act on behalf of clients’ best interests.

Fiduciary Duty: Upholding Integrity and Trust

In real estate, fiduciary duty is the cornerstone of the agent-client relationship. It’s the agent’s ethical and legal obligation to act in the best interests of the client, often placing the client’s needs above their own. While fiduciary duty is a requirement, agents can benefit from exploring what it means in real-world situations beyond the contracts and paperwork.

Developing a strong sense of fiduciary responsibility through self-guided ethics courses, mentoring, or real estate ethics workshops reinforces your professional commitment and elevates your reputation. When clients know that their agent prioritizes their well-being over personal gain, they’re more likely to recommend your services and become repeat clients. In the long run, this integrity pays off by building a loyal client base founded on trust.

Prioritizing Client Interests in Multiple Offer Situations:

Suppose an agent is representing a seller who receives multiple offers on their property. The agent receives a higher commission on one offer due to a bonus from the buyer's agent. Despite this potential personal gain, fiduciary duty requires the agent to present all offers impartially, focusing solely on the benefits to the seller rather than personal financial incentives. The agent must explain the pros and cons of each offer based on the seller's needs and objectives, without bias.

Referral to a Home Inspector:

The agent recommends a home inspector who offers a referral fee to the agent for every client sent their way. In this scenario, the agent's fiduciary duty requires them to disclose this financial arrangement to the client.

Moreover, the agent should ensure that the referral is made based on the inspector's qualifications and the quality of service they provide, not the potential financial benefit to the agent. The client’s interest in getting a thorough and unbiased inspection must remain the top priority.

Handling Confidential Client Information:

An agent learns that their client, the buyer, has recently received a significant promotion that will substantially increase their income. This information is crucial because it affects the buyer's borrowing capacity.

Despite knowing this could make the buyer willing to offer more for a property, the agent must maintain confidentiality and negotiate in the buyer's best interest, rather than using this information to push for a higher price negotiation to close the deal quickly. This ensures that the buyer's financial capabilities are not used against them in negotiations, maintaining the agent's duty to act with integrity and prioritize the client's interests.

Prioritizing Service Over Profit

For agents truly invested in their careers, service should always come before profit. While a successful real estate career can be lucrative, clients can quickly sense when an agent is focused solely on the sale rather than genuinely helping them. Agents who develop a mindset of serving—seeking to match clients with properties that meet their unique needs—are more likely to see long-term success and satisfaction.

This mindset can be cultivated through various personal development avenues. Self-reflective practices, attending service-oriented workshops, and learning from other service-focused professionals outside real estate can all reinforce this philosophy. By putting clients’ interests first, agents can foster a more fulfilling career, driven by relationships and client satisfaction rather than transaction numbers alone.

Real Estate Events: The Pros and Cons of Attending for Professional Growth

Attending real estate events can offer excellent opportunities for networking, learning from industry experts, and gaining new perspectives.

No matter what event, or who is hosting it, do your own research. This is vital for all forms of development. Remember, you are there to grow and not be a “yes man”, per se. If your intuition tells you there is advice that doesn’t align with your values, morals, or ethics… take note of that. It is better to use your conscience than lose it.

When attending real estate conferences and workshops, the logistics of travel shouldn’t be a distraction from your learning goals. Utilizing Navan as a business owner traveling can streamline your travel arrangements, track your business expenses for tax deductions, and get exclusive hotel booking discounts without the extra fees. Focus on networking and absorbing knowledge. Explore Navan’s solutions to manage your travel efficiently, ensuring you arrive at your professional development events refreshed and ready to engage.

Book your Real Estate Hotel with exclusive hotel discounts for business owners and their teams.

Attend the 2024 ULI Fall Meeting

“The 2024 ULI Fall Meeting is one of them. With 6,000 professionals from all sectors of real estate expected to attend, this event is a prime opportunity to network with top industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from around the globe.

You'll gain firsthand insights into the latest trends, emerging markets, and cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of urban development. The meeting offers a wealth of educational opportunities, with workshops and sessions designed to deepen your knowledge in areas like sustainability, resilience, investment strategies, and urban design.”

Rudy Tjokrosuwarno, CEO, Multimo

Join the NAR Conference & Success Summit

“One excellent real estate event in the upcoming Fall '24 and Winter/Spring '25 seasons is the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Annual Conference & Expo. This event, scheduled for November 2024, is a must-attend for new agents looking to deepen their understanding of the industry, especially in the context of an economic downturn. The NAR Conference is renowned for its comprehensive sessions that cover everything from market trends to practical strategies for thriving in challenging economic conditions.

The NAR Conference provides new agents with the opportunity to learn directly from industry leaders who have navigated previous recessions successfully. The event features workshops and panels focused on building resilience, understanding shifting market dynamics, and leveraging technology to create more efficient and effective business practices. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on relationship building, with numerous networking events that allow agents to connect with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators.

What makes this conference particularly valuable for new agents is the focus on genuine relationship building. In an industry where connections are key, the NAR Conference facilitates collaborative possibilities through its interactive sessions and networking opportunities. Attendees can expect to leave with actionable insights on how to pivot their strategies in response to economic challenges while forming connections that can lead to long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships.

For those looking to extend their learning into the Winter and Spring of 2025, the Real Estate Success Summit in January 2025 is another excellent option. This event is specifically designed to help agents of all levels, but particularly newer ones, to refine their skills and strategies in a supportive environment. The summit offers in-depth training on how to sustain and grow a real estate business during times of economic uncertainty, with a strong emphasis on ethical practices and client relationships.

Both of these events provide the tools and connections necessary to not only survive but thrive in a recessionary market, making them invaluable opportunities for any agent looking to build a solid foundation in their real estate career.”

Samantha Easton, Chief Executive Officer, Blue Diamond Sales & Rentals, Inc

Experience Inman Connect in New York

“If you're a new agent looking to really get ahead and understand how to thrive during a recession, I highly recommend checking out Inman Connect in New York this January. This event is known for its forward-thinking approach, and with the market's volatility, there's no better place to learn how to adapt and build resilience. Inman Connect brings together top minds in real estate, from tech innovators to seasoned agents who've weathered previous downturns, so you're getting a full spectrum of insights.

But what really sets Inman Connect apart is the emphasis on genuine relationship-building. It's not just about exchanging business cards; it's about having meaningful conversations with people who are just as eager to collaborate and grow as you are. Whether it's through roundtable discussions, workshops, or even casual meetups, you'll find plenty of opportunities to connect with others who share your goals and values. For any new agent, this event isn't just a learning experience—it's a chance to start forming the kind of professional relationships that can carry you through any market conditions.”

JD Lloyd, Business Development Manager and Project Manager, Bella Virtual Staging

Not every event will be exactly what you expected. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Networking: Events allow agents to connect with a broad range of industry professionals. From seasoned agents to experts in real estate law, these connections can offer fresh perspectives and open doors for collaborations.

• Learning Opportunities: Many events feature workshops, panels, and speakers covering various topics, from emerging market trends to advanced negotiation skills. These sessions provide insights that can directly impact your daily work and client interactions.

• Inspiration and Motivation: Hearing success stories and lessons learned from industry leaders can be inspiring, helping agents stay motivated and committed to growth.

Cons:

• Cost and Time: Real estate events can be pricey, often with travel expenses on top of ticket prices. Time is also a factor, as events can take you away from your daily work.

• Unfulfilled Expectations: Sometimes, events may not deliver the expected value. This can happen if sessions are too general, if content doesn’t resonate, or if networking is minimal.

Maximizing the Benefits of Any Event

Even if an event falls short of expectations, you can still gain value by setting clear goals beforehand and focusing on specific outcomes. Here are ways to make the most of any real estate event:

• Set Clear Objectives: Identify a couple of skills you want to improve or topics you want to explore. This focus helps you prioritize the most relevant sessions and interactions.

• Network Intentionally: Have meaningful conversations, even if only with a handful of attendees. This focused networking approach can often be more impactful than broad attempts to meet everyone.

• Seek Practical Takeaways: Instead of aiming to absorb everything, focus on actionable ideas you can implement immediately. This could mean adopting a new market analysis technique or adjusting how you communicate with clients.

Personal development outside your brokerage is about more than career advancement; it’s about building integrity, skill, and service-oriented values that will set you apart as an agent. By honing market insight, upholding fiduciary responsibility, and prioritizing service over profit, you create a professional foundation that clients will trust and appreciate.

Attending real estate events, though not without potential drawbacks, can further enhance these qualities. And no matter the event’s quality, your commitment to growth will always ensure you walk away with something valuable.

“Amazon Ads Decoded: The No-Nonsense Guide to Skyrocket Your Brand—Even If You Don’t Sell on Amazon”

Article Overview: Key Takeaways

• Why Amazon Ads?: Are Amazon Ads a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes and can it help your brand grow, even if you're not selling on Amazon?

• Economic Impact of Amazon Ads: Understand how the current economic conditions.

• Amazon Ad Types Explained: Discover the differences between Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Display ads, and how each type can serve different business needs.

• Advertising Without Amazon Products: Learn how to use Amazon Ads to advertise your brand and drive traffic to your own website, even if you don’t sell on Amazon.

• Refine Strategy for Better Amazon Ads Results: Insights from business owner and contributor Susan B. Merry, Owner, Inner Joy Activewear

• Using Amazon Ads for Your Website: Find out how to leverage Amazon Ads if you sell digital or physical products on your own website.

• Maximize ROI With Amazon Ads: with contributor Ilker Dalgic, Business Owner, Edi Gourmet Spice

• Converting Amazon Traffic to Your Website: Practical strategies for turning Amazon's massive customer base into traffic for your own site.

• Best Strategy for Starting Amazon Ads: Step-by-step guide for setting up your first Amazon Ads campaign based on your budget.

• Transform Your Strategy With Amazon Ads: Not a win or lose, but how you utilize finding what works and what doesn’t with contributor Dimitri Zobnin, Managing Director, House of Enki

• Using Amazon Without Relying Solely on It: How to use Amazon Ads as part of a larger marketing strategy to grow your brand independently.

• Leverage Amazon Ads for Business Growth: First-hand strategy with contributor Faizan Khan, Public Relations and Content Marketing Specialist, Ubuy Australia

• Expanded FAQ: Detailed answers to common questions about using Amazon Ads effectively, even for businesses that aren’t on Amazon.

Amazon Ads is a powerful tool that can help businesses of all sizes gain visibility and increase sales. But what if your business doesn't sell on Amazon? Or, how can you leverage Amazon's platform while ensuring your brand grows independently of it? Let’s explore Amazon Ads and how you can use it strategically for digital marketing—whether you sell on Amazon or have your own website.

Why Amazon Ads?

Amazon Ads offers access to over 300 million active users, many of whom are ready to buy. The platform excels in targeting consumers who are actively searching for products and have high purchasing intent. Amazon’s rich data on customer behavior provides businesses with an invaluable edge in creating highly targeted advertising campaigns. But Amazon isn't just for businesses selling on its platform—you can use its ads even if your primary business exists elsewhere.

Economic Impact of Amazon Ads

As we teeter between inflation and recession businesses are tightening their belts due to inflation and market fluctuations, Amazon Ads offers a cost-effective and efficient way to reach customers who are in the mindset of purchasing. As competition increases online, Amazon provides a unique way to directly access buyers, making it a crucial tool in your digital marketing strategy. By using Amazon Ads wisely, you can navigate tough economic times and come out ahead of competitors.

Key Amazon Ad Types (And What They Mean)

To get the most out of Amazon Ads, it’s important to understand the different types of ads available and how each one works:

1. Sponsored Products: These ads promote individual products and appear within Amazon’s search results or on product detail pages. They are keyword-targeted, which means you can choose specific words or phrases that match your products and bid on them. Sponsored Products work well for driving traffic to specific products on Amazon.

2. Sponsored Brands: This type of ad allows you to promote a collection of products or your overall brand. You’ll see these ads at the top of Amazon search results, usually with your logo, a custom headline, and several featured products. This is a great option for businesses that want to build brand awareness.

3. Sponsored Display: Sponsored Display ads are unique in that they show your ads not only on Amazon but also on other websites and apps. These ads use audience targeting based on browsing behavior, allowing you to reach potential customers who may not have even visited Amazon yet.

How to Advertise Your Brand on Amazon (Even If You Don’t Sell on Amazon)

You may think Amazon Ads only work for products sold directly on Amazon, but that’s not the case. If your business sells digital or physical products on your own website, you can still use Amazon Ads to drive traffic to your site. Ensure your business is also ready to handle any form of customer support that is needed. Here's how to work with Amazon Ads:

• Sponsored Display Ads: Use Sponsored Display ads to promote your business or product off Amazon. By targeting customers based on their interests and behavior, you can direct them to your own website. This strategy is especially useful for businesses that sell digital products or services, such as online courses or software, which aren’t necessarily listed on Amazon.

• Brand Awareness with Sponsored Brands: Sponsored Brands ads can also promote your overall brand, even if you don’t have a presence on Amazon. Think of this as a way to introduce potential customers to your brand, leading them to your own site for more information or to purchase.

• Multi-Lingual Customers: A great way for ROI is being able to pivot your company to also support other languages like Spanish which can significantly boost your results. If offering courses try software like LearnWorlds which can convert your course creation into any language. Also use a program like Laxis, which allows you to have meetings like Zoom, but translates automatically for you, while using an AI note taker so you can focus on your new customers and clients.

• Set Your Budget: Whether you’re working with a small, medium, or large budget, Amazon Ads can be tailored to your needs.

  • Small Budget ($50-$500): Start with Sponsored Products. Keep your targeting focused. Pick long-tail keywords that are less competitive but highly relevant to your product. Set daily budgets that don’t strain your finances, and test different ad variations to see what works.

  • Medium Budget ($500-$5,000): Expand into Sponsored Brands and Sponsored Display. Create campaigns with a mix of automatic targeting (where Amazon selects relevant keywords) and manual targeting (where you choose the keywords yourself).

  • Large Budget ($5,000+): Maximize your exposure through multi-layered campaigns. Combine Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Display. Consider using Amazon DSP (Demand-Side Platform) for even broader reach across websites and apps.

Refine Strategy for Better Amazon Ads Results

When I first ventured into Amazon Ads for my small business, it felt like stepping into a whole new world of marketing possibilities. I had heard about the potential reach and targeted advertising that Amazon offers, so I decided to give it a shot. The initial setup was relatively straightforward. I signed up for an Amazon Seller account, navigated to the advertising section, and was greeted with a user-friendly interface that guided me through the process of creating my first campaign.

The learning curve was steep, though. Understanding keywords, bidding strategies, and how to effectively target my audience took some time. I spent countless hours reading guides, watching tutorials, and experimenting with different approaches. Initially, the results were modest. My ads were getting impressions, but the click-through rates and conversions were not as high as I had hoped. It was a bit disheartening, but I knew that patience and persistence were key.

Over the next few months, I refined my strategy. I started with automatic campaigns to gather data on which keywords were performing well and then shifted to manual campaigns to have more control. I also took advantage of Amazon’s reporting tools to track performance and make data-driven decisions. Slowly but surely, I began to see an improvement. Sales started to pick up, and my return on ad spend (ROAS) became more favorable. It was gratifying to see my efforts pay off.

Susan B. Merry, Owner, Inner Joy Activewear

Using Amazon Ads with Your Own Website and Products

If you sell both digital and physical products on your own website, you can leverage Amazon Ads to increase your visibility and sales. Here’s how:

1. Driving Traffic to Your Website: Use Sponsored Display ads to send potential customers to your website. Whether you're selling downloadable content, physical products, or services, this type of ad can target users who may have an interest in your offerings based on their behavior. You don’t need to sell on Amazon to use these ads.

2. Retargeting Ads: Sponsored Display allows you to retarget visitors who have previously viewed your products on Amazon but didn’t purchase. This works exceptionally well for higher-priced items or products that typically require more consideration before buying.

3. Promote Both Amazon and Non-Amazon Products: If you sell on both Amazon and your own site, you can run Sponsored product ads for your Amazon listings while also using Sponsored Displays to drive traffic to your website. This gives you the flexibility to use Amazon’s traffic while growing your own site’s sales.

Maximize ROI With Amazon Ads

Joining Amazon Ads for my business has been an impactful journey, offering the highest ROI among paid search channels due to the platform's strong purchase intent. As a new business, it was challenging to achieve high organic rankings, but Amazon Ads provided a crucial boost by increasing our product visibility. 

The key to success was meticulously monitoring ROI for each keyword and optimizing campaigns around the highest-performing ones. This data-driven approach allowed us to maximize our advertising spend and reach a highly targeted audience. 

For small businesses, Amazon Ads is a valuable tool for driving sales and building brand presence, especially in the early stages.

Ilker Dalgic, Business Owner, Edi Gourmet Spice

Converting Amazon Traffic to Your Own Website

One key challenge for businesses is how to use Amazon’s platform without becoming overly dependent on it. Here's how to use Amazon’s customer base to build traffic to your own site:

1. Incentivize Off-Amazon Sales: Offer exclusive promotions, discounts, or bundles on your website that aren’t available on Amazon. Use your ads to direct traffic to those offers. This creates a sense of exclusivity and can entice Amazon shoppers to explore your own website.

2. Leverage Customer Data: Amazon Ads provides detailed insights into customer behavior. Use this data to understand your audience better and create more personalized campaigns that direct them to your site. Remember, the goal is not just to make sales on Amazon, but to bring customers back to your own platform.

3. Grow Your Email List: Encourage visitors from your Amazon ads to sign up for your email list on your website. Offering a free download, exclusive tips, or special deals can incentivize them to share their contact information, allowing you to follow up and build a relationship outside of Amazon.

Insider Tips Many Don’t Know

• Utilize Amazon’s A+ Content: If you’re registered with Amazon Brand Registry, you have access to A+ Content. This feature allows you to enhance your product listings with more visuals and detailed descriptions. Well-designed A+ content can boost conversion rates by up to 10%.

• Leverage Retargeting: Sponsored Display ads allow you to retarget customers who have previously viewed your products but didn’t buy. Retargeting can dramatically increase your sales, especially for higher-priced items.

• Look Beyond Keywords: Amazon’s advertising platform allows you to target customers by interests and behaviors. Targeting by interest can be an excellent strategy if your product serves a niche market or seasonal demand.

• Optimize for Mobile: Most Amazon users browse and shop via mobile. Ensure your product images and descriptions look great on smaller screens. Even your ad copy should be short and to the point.

The most useful Strategy for Starting with Amazon Ads

Regardless of your budget, the best strategy is to start small and grow based on data. Begin by testing with Sponsored Products or Sponsored Display ads, adjusting your bids and targeting as you learn what works. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Set Up Your Amazon Ads Account: If you already have an Amazon Seller account, great! Otherwise, sign up for an Amazon Ads account through the Amazon advertising portal.

2. Start with Sponsored Products (if you sell on Amazon): This ad type is perfect for beginners because it promotes specific products in search results and product pages.

3. Experiment with Sponsored Display (for off-Amazon traffic): If you don’t sell on Amazon, start with Sponsored Display to target potential customers based on their browsing habits and drive them to your website.

4. Monitor and Optimize: Watch your ad performance closely using Amazon’s robust analytics. As you gather data on which keywords and ad types work best, adjust your bids, targeting, and budget to maximize returns.

Pro Tip: Use negative keywords to avoid spending money on clicks that won’t convert to sales. For example, if you sell premium products, you may want to exclude keywords like “cheap” or “budget.”

Transform Your Strategy With Amazon Ads

Joining Amazon Ads was a transformative journey for us. Initially, we were apprehensive but determined to make it work. We started with sponsored product ads and learned through Amazon’s tutorials. Keywords were crucial, and automated targeting helped us discover new ones, enhancing our campaigns. 

We saw a modest traffic increase initially, but significant gains came with constant tweaking and budgeting adjustments. Positive reviews boosted our ad rankings, and engaging with customers built trust and improved our reputation. The process required continuous learning and adaptation. Staying updated with Amazon’s features and experimenting with different ad types kept our strategy effective. 

For other small businesses, I recommend starting small, being patient, and using customer feedback to refine your approach. Amazon Ads opened new opportunities for us and became a key part of our growth strategy.
Dimitri Zobnin, Managing Director, House of Enki

Amazon Without Relying on It

While Amazon Ads can provide an incredible boost to your business, it’s important not to rely solely on the platform. Instead, use it as one part of a larger strategy to grow your own brand:

• Build Brand Recognition: Use Amazon Ads to introduce customers to your brand, but always aim to bring them back to your own website where you have full control of the customer experience.

• Develop a Multi-Channel Marketing Strategy: Incorporate Amazon Ads alongside other marketing efforts like Google Ads, social media, and email marketing. This creates a well-rounded strategy that isn’t dependent on any single platform.

• Focus on Customer Loyalty: Once you’ve attracted customers through Amazon Ads, nurture those relationships through personalized email campaigns, customer service, and exclusive offers available only through your website.

Amazon Ads offers a powerful platform for businesses, whether you’re selling products on Amazon or driving traffic to your own site. From understanding the different ad types—Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Display—to knowing how to leverage them strategically, you now have the tools to create campaigns that fit your budget and goals.

Leverage Amazon Ads for Business Growth

My experience when I joined Amazon Ads as a small business was eye-opening. First, I introduced myself confidently and started learning about Amazon's advertising model, which is the cost-per-click (CPC) model. This knowledge helped me create effective advertising campaigns that increased the visibility of small businesses and their products on the platform. 

I used contextual product-category targeting and referred to various sources to understand the customer journey better. I also focused on creating A+ content and sponsored ads and paid attention to metrics like ACoS to ensure our ad campaigns were efficient and cost-effective for our small-business clients. 

Additionally, I kept up with updates in the digital marketing industry to make smart decisions and predict future trends for our small-business clients. The experience has transformed the small businesses I work with, increasing their visibility and driving growth.

Faizan Khan, Public Relations and Content Marketing Specialist, Ubuy Australia

Here’s a quick recap of actionable steps to get started:

1. Set Up Your Amazon Ads Account: Whether you sell on Amazon or not, sign up for an account and choose the right ad type based on your goals.

2. Start Small and Scale Fast: Begin with a limited budget, test your campaigns, and optimize them as you gather data. Focus on Sponsored Products for direct sales or Sponsored Display to drive traffic to your site.

3. Leverage Amazon’s Customer Base: Even if you don’t sell on Amazon, use their vast customer network to build brand awareness and drive conversions to your own site.

4. Diversify Your Strategy: Don’t rely solely on Amazon Ads—integrate it into a broader marketing plan that includes other channels like social media, email, and Google Ads.

5. Measure and Optimize: Continuously monitor your performance and adjust your campaigns for maximum return on investment.

As you take these steps, remember that every great business starts with a vision and faith in its purpose. Don’t let worries about budgets, competition, or economic uncertainty cloud your path. Instead, focus on your mission and trust that you’re building something meaningful. Amazon Ads is a tool that can support your growth, but it’s your dedication to your business’s purpose that will drive your success in the long term.

Stay persistent, keep refining your strategies, and know that every challenge you face is an opportunity to learn and improve. The road may not always be easy, but it is purposeful, and with faith in your business vision, the rewards will come. Believe in the value you bring to your customers, and trust that your efforts, guided by wisdom and strategy, will bear fruit in time.

Keep pushing forward—your business has the potential to achieve great things, and Amazon Ads is just one step in your journey toward lasting success. Since such platforms are not owned by you, be ready to pivot on a dime when it no longer serves your company mission, purpose, or customer base. Remember, if it is not your own platform, it can change at anytime without notice.

Expanded FAQ

Q: How do I get started with Amazon Ads if I’ve never advertised before?
A: Start by signing up for an Amazon Ads account through their advertising portal. If you sell on Amazon, your seller account is already connected. Choose a simple ad format like Sponsored Products, set a small budget, and monitor performance closely. For non-Amazon sellers, use Sponsored Display ads to drive traffic to your website. Start small, analyze data regularly, and optimize your campaigns based on what works.

Q: What’s the difference between Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Display ads?
A:

• Sponsored Products: These ads promote individual products, targeting specific keywords to appear in Amazon’s search results and product pages. They are perfect for direct sales.

• Sponsored Brands: Promote your brand and a collection of products. These ads appear at the top of Amazon search results, often with your logo and several products listed. Ideal for businesses looking to build brand awareness.

• Sponsored Display: Target users based on their interests and behavior, displaying ads both on and off Amazon. These are excellent for businesses driving traffic to their own websites or increasing awareness.

Q: Can I use Amazon Ads even if I don’t sell products on Amazon?
A: Absolutely! Sponsored Display ads allow you to target Amazon users based on their behavior and interests, even if you don’t sell on Amazon. You can direct them to your own website where you sell products or services.

Q: How do I drive traffic from Amazon to my own website?
A: Sponsored Display ads can direct potential customers to your website. You can also offer exclusive promotions or content on your site that Amazon users won’t find on Amazon, encouraging them to visit your site directly. Using retargeting strategies helps bring back visitors who’ve shown interest in your product or service.

Q: I have both digital and physical products on my own website—can I still use Amazon Ads?
A: Yes, you can use Amazon Ads to promote both digital and physical products even if they are hosted on your own site. Sponsored Display ads are great for driving potential customers to your website where they can purchase these items. You can customize ads based on the type of product you're promoting, whether it’s a digital course or a physical item.

Q: How can I convert Amazon traffic to my own platform?
A: To convert traffic from Amazon to your own site:

1. Use Incentives: Offer exclusive deals, promotions, or content on your website that customers can’t get on Amazon.

2. Create a Seamless Experience: Ensure your website is user-friendly and optimized for mobile since many Amazon users browse via mobile devices.

3. Leverage Retargeting: Sponsored Display ads allow you to retarget users who viewed your products on Amazon but didn’t purchase, nudging them to complete the sale on your website.

Q: How can I advertise my brand if I don’t sell on Amazon but want to use their platform?
A: You can use Sponsored Display and Sponsored Brands to advertise your business without selling on Amazon. Sponsored Display ads can target specific customer segments and lead them directly to your own website. Sponsored Brands, on the other hand, are a great way to build overall brand awareness by showcasing your company logo, headline, and multiple products.

Q: What are the best practices for targeting the right audience on Amazon?
A:

• Use manual targeting for precise control over which keywords or audiences see your ads.

• Utilize Amazon’s automatic targeting to allow the platform’s AI to identify relevant customer searches you might not have considered.

• Implement negative keywords to exclude terms that don’t result in conversions, helping you avoid wasting your budget on non-relevant clicks.

Q: How can I measure the success of my Amazon Ads campaign?
A: Amazon provides detailed analytics that allow you to track performance through metrics like impressions, clicks, click-through rate (CTR), and conversions. Use this data to adjust your bids, keywords, and targeting strategies. You can also calculate your Advertising Cost of Sales (ACoS)—this measures the effectiveness of your ad spend in relation to your sales.

Q: Should I rely solely on Amazon Ads for my business growth?
A: No, Amazon Ads should be one part of a broader marketing strategy. While it’s a powerful tool for reaching potential buyers, diversifying your advertising across platforms (like Google Ads, Facebook, or email marketing) can help ensure your business is resilient and not reliant on one source of traffic.

Q: How do I set my Amazon Ads budget for maximum impact?
A:

• For small budgets ($50-$500), start with Sponsored Products to promote individual items. Use manual targeting to keep costs low while focusing on high-intent keywords.

• With a medium budget ($500-$5,000), diversify into Sponsored Brands and Sponsored Display, testing automatic and manual targeting.

• Large budgets ($5,000+) should maximize exposure with a combination of all ad types, including Amazon DSP (Demand-Side Platform) for broader reach beyond Amazon itself.

Q: How can I use Amazon Ads data to improve my overall marketing strategy?
A: Amazon Ads offers deep insights into customer behaviors and preferences. Use this data to:

1. Refine your targeting strategies on other platforms like Facebook or Google Ads.

2. Identify high-converting keywords or audience segments that could perform well on your own site.

3. Improve product listings or offerings on your website based on what performs well on Amazon.

Q: What’s a "negative keyword" and how does it help my Amazon campaign?
A: Negative keywords are search terms you exclude from your campaigns to prevent your ads from showing up in irrelevant searches. For example, if you sell premium goods, you might exclude keywords like “cheap” or “discount” to avoid attracting customers who aren’t your target audience. This helps reduce wasted ad spend and improves the effectiveness of your budget.

"Hidden Revenue: Boost Profits with What You Already Have"

We’ve all heard it recently and most of us have felt it already…the word “Recession”. It often triggers fear, and worry, but only a few see the gem of pivoting, learning, and thriving in times deemed “uncertain”, as if inflationary times are a good sign of certainty. Pause, think about it.

As self-employed and small business owners, we often have to think creatively to boost our bottom line, so we sought advice from owners and founders who've successfully done that.

From optimizing your online presence to running targeted email campaigns for leads, we've gathered 9 actionable strategies provided by seasoned entrepreneurs. Discover how to turn your existing resources into increased revenue with insights starting from leveraging partnerships to utilizing data to position your business as an industry expert.

• Optimize Your Online Presence

• Leverage Partnerships and Digital Optimization

• Double Down on Proven Marketing Channels

• Improve Customer Retention and Product Management

• Streamline Operations and Forge Strategic Partnerships

• Diversify Services Based on Client Feedback

• Listen to Customers for Expansion Ideas

• Utilize Data and Position as an Industry Expert

• Run Targeted Email Campaigns for Leads

Optimize Your Online Presence

Small businesses can leverage their existing resources to increase revenue by focusing on optimizing their online presence. From my experience, one of the most effective strategies is to enhance your website's SEO. This involves ensuring that your site is user-friendly, loads quickly, and is optimized for mobile devices. A few years ago, I worked with a local bakery that had a fantastic product but limited online visibility. By optimizing their website and creating content that targeted local search terms, we increased their website traffic significantly within six months, directly boosting their in-store sales.

Another key tactic is to utilize social media platforms effectively. Small businesses often overlook the power of social media as a free marketing tool. I once helped a small boutique clothing store revamp its social media strategy. By posting high-quality images, engaging with followers, and running targeted ad campaigns with a modest budget, the store saw a considerable increase in online sales. 

The key is to be consistent and authentic in your engagement, showcasing your unique products and telling your brand's story compellingly. These strategies demonstrate that by optimizing what you already have, you can significantly impact your revenue.

Brandon Leibowitz, Owner, SEO Optimizers

Leverage Partnerships and Digital Optimization

Strategic partnerships can exponentially increase your reach and revenue. Identify businesses that complement your services and explore cross-promotion opportunities. For example, a small marketing agency could partner with a web development firm, offering bundled services to clients. Further, optimizing digital tools—like CRM systems or project management software—can streamline these partnerships. By fully integrating your operations with your partners', both parties can offer more value to customers, creating a win-win scenario that boosts revenue without significant additional costs.

“As a longtime e-commerce entrepreneur, I've found leveraging partnerships and optimizing your digital presence is key. We partnered with influencers to promote our online courses, gaining thousands of new students and over $500K in revenue. 

We also analyzed our top students and tailored new courses to their needs. Courses on "sourcing products from China" and "selling on Amazon" increased enrollment in those areas substantially, along with revenue, within 6 months.

Finally, we optimized our website content and social media to rank for key terms our students searched. This increased organic traffic and sales from those sources.

Focus on partnerships, analyze your best customers, and optimize your digital presence. The opportunities are endless if you look for them.”

Will Mitchell, Founder, StartupBros

Double Down on Proven Marketing Channels

As the founder of a digital marketing agency, I’ve learned that focusing on a few key revenue-generating activities can have an outsized impact. For example, one medical practice saw its new patient consults increase by 32% in two months just by consistently posting on social media and optimizing their Google My Business listing. 

Many small businesses already have marketing channels that are working; they just need to double down on them. A specialty clothing retailer increased email list signups by 15% and online sales by 8% simply by redesigning their website to make the email signup more prominent and sending a weekly promotional newsletter.

Look for ways to generate more revenue from existing customers. A dentist's office saw a 12% increase in cosmetic procedure bookings after sending an email promoting teeth whitening specials exclusively to current patients. They were able to fill last-minute openings in the schedule and boost revenue with very little cost.

Small changes can drive big results. Don’t feel overwhelmed. Start with low-hanging fruit like optimizing your social profiles or sending a promotional email. Track results and build from there. Incremental progress will add up over time.

Jeff McGeary, Founder & CEO, PracticeVIP LLC

Improve Customer Retention and Product Management

Small businesses have a wealth of untapped potential within their existing resources that can be harnessed to boost revenue. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through improving customer retention. By investing in customer satisfaction and building strong relationships, businesses can increase the lifetime value of their clients. 

Simple actions like sending personalized follow-up emails, offering exclusive discounts to loyal customers, and soliciting feedback to improve services can make a big difference. Happy customers are more likely to make repeat purchases and recommend the business to others, generating additional revenue through word-of-mouth marketing.

Additionally, small businesses should look at their current offerings and identify opportunities for expansion. This could involve bundling products or services to create more appealing packages or introducing new features that enhance the value of what they already sell. Another tactic is to optimize pricing strategies by analyzing market trends and customer preferences to adjust prices accordingly. 

Implementing efficient inventory management practices can also free up capital tied up in stock, allowing businesses to invest in other revenue-generating areas. By focusing on customer retention and strategic product management, small businesses can effectively leverage their existing resources to drive revenue growth.

Jon Morgan, CEO, Venture Smarter

Streamline Operations and Forge Strategic Partnerships

Efficiency is key to maximizing revenue with existing resources. Start by auditing your current operations to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Streamlining these processes through automation or better resource allocation can free up time and capital. Additionally, consider forging partnerships that allow for shared resources, reducing costs, and expanding service offerings. For instance, partnering with a logistics company could reduce shipping costs, while collaboration with a tech provider could enhance your digital offerings.

“One approach is to maximize the efficiency of current operations. Often, small businesses can find new revenue opportunities by streamlining existing processes. We use Toggl Plan to optimize project timelines and resource allocation, which frees up our team to take on more projects without compromising quality. This increased efficiency directly contributes to our ability to scale our services and enhance revenue without incurring proportional increases in costs.

From a real-life perspective, consider the power of cross-promotions and strategic partnerships. At our company, we've partnered with complementary software providers to offer bundled services, which broadens our market reach and provides added value to our customers. For example, partnering with remote communication tools has been especially fruitful. These collaborations allow both partners to leverage each other's customer bases for mutual benefit, effectively increasing revenue with minimal investment.”

Alari Aho, CEO and Founder, Toggl Inc

Diversify Services Based on Client Feedback

Your existing clients are a goldmine of information. Regularly solicit feedback to identify unmet needs or potential service gaps. Diversifying your services based on this feedback can lead to new revenue streams. For example, if clients express a need for after-hours support, offering extended service hours could cater to this demand. By responding directly to client needs, you not only increase satisfaction but also create additional revenue opportunities that align with your core business.

“One actionable strategy for small businesses to leverage existing resources and increase revenue is to diversify services based on client needs.

In my legal process outsourcing company, we initially focused solely on document review. However, after receiving feedback and observing market demand, we expanded our offerings to include legal research and contract management without significant additional investment.

By training our existing staff and utilizing current technology, we maximized our resources and tapped into new revenue streams. This not only increased our profitability but also enhanced client satisfaction and loyalty.

Small businesses can similarly identify untapped potential within their current capabilities to diversify and grow their revenue base.”

Aseem Jha, Founder, Legal Consulting Pro

Listen to Customers for Expansion Ideas

As a small business, it has always been tricky to arrange cash flow to find extra money for new equipment or ideas. With the cost-of-living crisis and declining sales following the pandemic, in 2022, we began looking for opportunities for expansion into new areas while using only what we have on hand. The best way we've found to do this is to listen to what our customers ask us. They are an incredible resource for idea generation because they tell you exactly what they want. Most of the time, inquiries are about something similar to our current offering, so no new resources are required.

Before the pandemic, we only produced luxury laser-cut greeting cards on a made-to-order basis. We had been asked countless times if we would consider selling digital artwork and templates so that crafters could make their own versions of our products. We had always ignored these requests before, but, as times got harder, we started to pay attention. People were asking for these products for a reason, and if we were not prepared to help them, they would go to our competitors instead. We now have a whole new range of templates and digital artwork, and they have been really popular among a new audience for our brand.

Emma West, Founder and CMO, pogofandango

Utilize Data and Position as an Industry Expert

Though we are just starting out as a company, we are leveraging insights from our past work at NASA and other companies/agencies that have worked to promote funding and buy-in within different projects and departments. It's important to start wherever you are and grow from there so that you focus on the most applicable needs first.

Start by making the most of the data you already have, whether it's basic sales figures or required tax reporting information. If you lack detailed insights, begin analyzing whatever information is available and pay close attention to the thoughts that come while doing so, like, “It'd be great if we could assess X, Y, and Z.” Building internal systems to not only capture but also report information on X, Y, and Z should be your next priority. 

In our company, we had essentially nothing to start with, so we started generating pain points that our potential customers would face based on past experience in the field. This was our data. From there, we thought, “Gee, it'd be nice to know if this is accurate.” We got onto social media platforms, blogs, Reddit, and other sources and started chatting with people about their data, frustrations, and challenges. It was a slow process at first, but we got some anecdotal data to guide us.

Another strategy that has helped us, and our past employers, is positioning yourself as an expert in the field through the almost magical quality that comes from “conducting science.” Published studies are powerful marketing and sales tools, providing credibility and demonstrating expertise. When you reference peer-reviewed research or case studies, you can enhance your authority and trustworthiness. 

Additionally, planning and publishing your own studies can position your business as a thought leader in your industry. Engaging in this type of evidence-based marketing not only builds trust but also differentiates your brand in a crowded market. When I was working for NASA, this was one way we established ourselves as a leader in that specific field: know the current research, fill the gaps, and become the leader.

Michael Bishop, Founder, Managing Director, On Demand Stats

Run Targeted Email Campaigns for Leads

Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to reach your audience. However, the key is not in volume but in precision. Segment your email lists based on customer behavior, preferences, and purchase history. Craft personalized campaigns that speak directly to the needs of each segment, offering solutions that address their specific pain points. This targeted approach ensures higher engagement rates, better conversion rates, and ultimately, increased revenue.

“We have started to utilize our existing database of leads and clients by running weekly email campaigns to promote our services. The database has been built up over the years in the industry. With new leads, we tend to focus on some of the common frustrations managers face when dealing with outsourced cleaners, e.g., “Have you been let down by commercial cleaners before?” 

With our current client base, we promote the benefits of additional products and services, e.g., “How a periodic deep clean can add value to your brand.” This is a low-cost endeavor with a relatively good ROI. You generate leads directly from the email campaigns and also increase traffic to your company website. This helps your website rank well online in the search results.”

Sean McGrath, Managing Director, Cleaning Technique

The Wrap-Up

Your small business already possesses the tools needed for growth; it’s all about leveraging them wisely. By optimizing your online presence, deepening customer relationships, and strategically diversifying your offerings, you can unlock new revenue streams without significant additional investment. The time to act is now—don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start by implementing these strategies today, and watch as your business not only thrives but leads the way in your industry. Remember, every small step you take towards optimizing your resources brings you closer to greater success. The future of your business is in your hands—seize it with confidence and make the most of what you already have!

6 Must-Attend Fall Events for Small Business Entrepreneurs to Learn and Network

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, fall brings an array of exciting opportunities for small business owners and entrepreneurs to learn, network, and grow. Attending industry events is a fantastic way to stay updated on the latest trends, gain valuable insights, and make meaningful connections.

While planning your journey, consider using Navan for seamless hotel and flight bookings. With exclusive discounts and business-friendly services, Navan ensures a hassle-free travel experience tailored to your professional needs. Unlock business travel deals and repurpose funds back into your business!

To help small business entrepreneurs find the best events for learning and networking this fall, we asked CEOs and directors for their top recommendations.

From attending the VRMA Annual Conference to visiting the Small Business Expo, here are six events where you can build genuine relationships and explore collaborative possibilities.

Attend the VRMA Annual Conference

“As the CEO of a vacation rental management company, I highly recommend attending the VRMA Annual Conference. I have attended for years and built invaluable relationships with industry leaders. Last year in Chandler, AZ, I connected with the founder of a housekeeping training firm. We collaborated on an employee development program that decreased turnover by 43% for our managed properties. 

The VRMA curates world-class speakers on critical topics like marketing, operations, and customer service. One session revealed a new guest-screening system that decreased unpaid bills by 65% in its first month. The expo hall features cutting-edge tools for streamlining business. 

Vendors I met at VRMA became key partners, drastically improving productivity. For networking, learning, and growth in the vacation rental sphere, VRMA is the way to go.”

Garrett Ham, CEO, Weekender Management

Join the Digital Summit Series

Digital Summit 2024

“As the director of marketing operations for a digital agency, I highly recommend the Digital Summit conference series. 

Last fall at their Phoenix event, I connected with the founder of an SEO firm. We ended up collaborating on an integrated campaign that drove a significant increase in organic traffic for a mutual client. 

The Digital Summit curates world-class speakers and actionable insights. One talk revealed how to optimize Google My Business profiles for local SEO wins. We tested their tips and saw a 54% jump in calls and directions requests for local clients. 

The exhibit hall is a great place to find cutting-edge tools. I've found vendors at Digital Summit that became key parts of our marketing stack. Put Digital Summit at the top of your list.“

Joseph Yarber, Director of Operations, Limestone Digital

Experience HubSpot’s Inbound Conference

“As the founder of a digital marketing agency, I highly recommend HubSpot’s Inbound Conference. I've attended multiple times and built relationships. 

Last fall, I connected with an analytics expert. We collaborated on a campaign that increased organic traffic considerably for a client. The conference has world-class speakers sharing actionable insights. 

For networking and growth, HubSpot’s Inbound is top of the pack. The connections and lessons will fuel your business for months.“

Joe Amaral, Founder & COO, Anthem Software

Explore the Digital Marketing World Forum

“For small-business owners looking to network and learn, I highly recommend the Digital Marketing World Forum. It's held each fall in locations like New York and Amsterdam. 

As the founder of a digital marketing agency, I've found this conference to connect with other industry leaders and potential partners. Last year, I met another agency owner focused on paid ads—we ended up collaborating on several client campaigns that were mutually beneficial. The breakout sessions provide tactical advice you can implement right away. 

One talk on “video marketing hacks” revealed how to boost views and shares with ephemeral content—we tested that with a client and saw a 37% increase in video completion rates. 

The exhibit hall introduces you to new tools and vendors in a casual setting. I've found platforms at DMWF that became vital parts of our tech stack.

If networking and education are priorities, I highly recommend attending DMWF. The connections and takeaways are worth far more than the cost of attendance.“

Josh Cremer, CEO, and Creative Director, Redfox Visual

Participate in the Inc. 5000 Conference

“The Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala during the fall is among the greatest small-business events for entrepreneurs. The occasion is hosted by Inc. magazine and marks the fastest-expanding private firms in America. Consequently, it serves as a great platform where small-business owners can take lessons from renowned industry captains, attend helpful workshops, and engage in networking sessions meant to foster real friendships and collaborations. 

Through this conference, important insights on issues such as scaling a business are provided. Thus, an entrepreneur who wants to grow his or her enterprise and network with professionals of similar ideas cannot miss it for anything in life.“

Sumit Raghav, Event and Exhibition Planner, NS Events and Exhibitions Fzc.

Visit the Small Business Expo

“One of the best business events in the fall for small-business entrepreneurs is the Small Business Expo. This event offers a unique blend of learning opportunities and networking. A few years ago, I attended the Expo in New York and was impressed by the range of workshops and keynote speakers. I vividly remember a session on digital marketing trends that provided actionable strategies, which I implemented to boost our online presence.

What makes the Small Business Expo particularly valuable is its focus on practical business growth. The event features a diverse array of exhibitors, from financial services to tech solutions, offering tailored advice and resources for small businesses. During the Expo, I had the chance to engage in one-on-one consultations with experts who helped refine my business strategy.

The networking aspect is also exceptional. The Expo facilitates meaningful connections through structured networking sessions and casual meet-and-greets. I met a fellow entrepreneur who shared insights on streamlining operations, leading to a fruitful partnership that improved our efficiency. The genuine, collaborative atmosphere makes it easy to build lasting relationships. For small-business owners looking to expand their knowledge and network, the Small Business Expo is a must-attend event.“

Rodney Steele, CEO, Dinsmore Steele

Upcoming Small Business Events in Fall 2024

Quick Tip: Keep all business and personal expenses separate!

1. RMA Annual Conference

Description: The RMA Annual Conference is a premier event for risk management professionals. It focuses on strategies and best practices in financial services and risk management. Attendees can participate in interactive sessions and network with industry leaders.

Dates: December 9-12, 2024

Location: Virtual

Website: RMA Annual Conference​ (RMAHQ)​ (RMAHQ)

2. Digital Summit Series

Description: The Digital Summit Series brings together marketers, digital strategists, and business leaders to discuss the latest trends and tools in digital marketing. The series features multiple events across the country, providing ample opportunities for learning and networking.

Dates and Locations:

• Philadelphia, PA: September 24-25, 2024

• Atlanta, GA: October 3-4, 2024

• Boston, MA: October 29, 2024

• Raleigh, NC: November 4-5, 2024

• Los Angeles, CA: November 14-15, 2024

• Dallas, TX: December 4-5, 2024

• Portland, OR: December 11-12, 2024

Website: Digital Summit​ (Digital Summit)​ (Digital Summit)​ (Digital Summit)​ (Digital Summit)

3. HubSpot’s Inbound Conference

Description: Inbound is a vibrant conference hosted by HubSpot, focusing on inbound marketing and customer engagement. It features keynotes, breakout sessions, and workshops from industry experts, providing valuable insights into marketing, sales, and customer success.

Dates: September 17-20, 2024

Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Website: Inbound Conference

4. Digital Marketing World Forum (DMWF)

Description: The Digital Marketing World Forum is a leading conference for digital marketers, featuring insights into content marketing, social media strategies, AI, and data analytics. It offers a platform to explore the future of digital marketing with global leaders.

Dates: October 25-26, 2024

Location: New York City, New York

Website: Digital Marketing World Forum

5. Inc. 5000 Conference

Description: The Inc. 5000 Conference celebrates the fastest-growing private companies in America. It's an excellent opportunity to learn from top entrepreneurs, gain insights into business growth strategies, and network with other ambitious business leaders.

Dates: October 31 - November 2, 2024

Location: Phoenix, Arizona

Website: Inc. 5000 Conference

6. The Small Business Expo

Description: The Small Business Expo is the largest networking event for small business professionals, providing resources, insights, and strategies to help businesses grow. It's a fantastic platform to connect with vendors, explore new products, and learn from industry experts.

Dates and Locations:

• New York, NY: September 19, 2024

• Los Angeles, CA: November 14, 2024

Website: Small Business Expo

Attending these events is more than just a chance to learn; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in your industry, connect with like-minded professionals, and expand your horizons without the usual business pressures. You'll return with fresh insights, new connections, and renewed energy to drive your business forward.

Make the most of your experience by booking with a platform designed specifically for business travel, offering competitive discounts and seamless coordination of your travel arrangements. Whether you're seeking inspiration, education, or collaboration, these events provide the perfect backdrop for your professional growth.

Consider turning your trip into a “Workcation”, taking time for yourself during or at the end of any business event to be present and envision the adjustments and pivots you plan to make.

Book Your Business Event Trip with Navan!

The Power of Accounting Software and Handwritten Ledgers: Tools for "Future-Proof" Tax Success

In finance, particularly for small businesses and freelancers, tax season can oftentimes seem more overwhelming than the task actually could be. However, with your simple record-keeping “old-school style” and the merger of accounting software, navigating through tax obligations has become significantly more manageable. Businesses need efficient and dependable tools to guide the complexities of finance and taxation.

Tax season doesn't have to be synonymous with chaos and confusion. By using the right tools and resources even from your phone, individuals and businesses can streamline their financial processes, gain deeper insights into their financial health, and ultimately achieve greater peace of mind. Preparation is key when it comes to tax season, stay organized throughout the year, making tax filing a seamless process rather than a frantic scramble as the deadline approaches. Making the change to being organized and prepared can start any time of year.

How businesses can benefit from using streamlined accounting software:

1. Keeping a Ledger: Always keep a list of what money is coming in, from where, the obligations of where it must go (taxes included), what is left over, and where that also should go.

2. Automation of Financial Tasks: Accounting software automates redundant tasks like invoicing, bills & expense tracking, and banking. Saving time and can reduce the risk of errors, allowing business owners to focus on core activities. As much as we believe online tools are error-proof they are not. Be sure to manually review automations regularly. Take note of any expenses that may have risen. Even pay attention to if any of your service providers have changed their pricing. You are ultimately the main and most capable of accounting for where your money goes.

3. Real-Time Financial Insights: With accounting software, you have access to real-time financial data and reports. This visibility enables you with informed decision-making, as you track cash flow, monitor expenses, and assess profitability at any given time.

4. Enhanced Accuracy and Compliance: Accounting software helps ensure accuracy and compliance with tax regulations. It automates tax calculations, generates compliant financial statements, and facilitates easy tax filing, reducing the risk of errors and penalties.

5. Improved Cash Flow Management: By tracking income and expenses in real-time, accounting software enables better cash flow management and accountability. Business owners can identify trends, anticipate financial needs, and make proactive adjustments to optimize cash flow.

6. Facilitated Business Growth: Streamlined accounting processes facilitate business growth by providing scalable solutions. As businesses expand, accounting software can accommodate increased transactions, users, and reporting requirements without compromising efficiency.

7. Integration with Other Systems: Accounting software often integrates seamlessly with other business systems, such as payroll, inventory management, banking and CRM software. This integration streamlines workflows, eliminates data silos, and enhances overall operational efficiency.

8. Accessibility and Mobility: Cloud-based accounting software offers anytime, anywhere access to financial data via the Internet, your phone included. This accessibility allows business owners to manage finances on the go, collaborate with team members remotely, and respond promptly to business needs.

QuickBooks stands out as a game-changer in financial management software. It offers a user-friendly interface, powerful features, and full-bodied functionality tailored to the needs of small businesses and self-employed individuals.

Strength of Handwritten Ledgers Alongside Digital Tools

At a time when technology reigns supreme, the thought of using a pen and paper to record financial transactions might seem out-of-date. However, blending handwritten ledgers with digital tools offers a diligent approach to financial management and ensures no “sneak leaking” of funds. Do not limit the advantages of this hybrid method and it's worth implementing for anyone in personal and business finances.

The Internal & Emotional Sensory Experience:

There's a certain fulfillment that comes with the act of writing by hand. Unlike typing on a keyboard, physically recording transactions engages multiple senses, enhancing understanding and retention of information. For entrepreneurs seeking a deeper connection with their finances, the process of manually jotting down transactions in a ledger can provide valuable insights into cash flow, expenses, and overall financial health. Oh, and writing has this effect in general!

Enhanced Security and Backup:

While digital tools offer convenience, they also come with the risk of technological glitches or security breaches. By maintaining a handwritten ledger alongside digital records, entrepreneurs create a reliable backup system. In the event of a digital failure or loss, having a physical record ensures the continuity of financial data and provides peace of mind. It's an extra layer of security in an increasingly digital world.

Synergy of Analog and Digital:

The combination of handwritten ledgers and digital tools offers the best of both worlds. Online platforms provide automation, real-time insights, and seamless integration, while handwritten records offer a personal touch and serve as a backup. By welcoming this hybrid process, entrepreneurs can enjoy the benefits of modern technology while retaining the authenticity of handwritten records.

Promoting Financial Literacy:

Understanding the intricacies of financial management is essential for entrepreneurs. By actively engaging with financial data through handwritten ledgers, individuals can deepen their financial literacy and make more informed decisions about their businesses. It's a hands-on approach that fosters a deeper connection with one's finances and promotes a greater sense of control and understanding.

Why QuickBooks is a Game-Changer for Tax Season

QuickBooks streamlines tax season by automating monotonous tasks, delivering real-time understandings of financial data, and offering extended reporting abilities. Its instinctive design and accessibility make it an integral tool for businesses of all sizes. QuickBooks is a top accounting software that provides users with tools for invoicing, expense tracking, payroll management, and more. Its user-friendly interface and customizable features make it an ideal solution for businesses of all sizes.

Tool #1: QuickBooks Online

Features that Make a Difference

QuickBooks Online boasts an array of features designed to facilitate financial management and tax preparation. From automated expense tracking to seamless invoice management, it simplifies the entire process from start to finish.

• Automated Expense Tracking: QuickBooks Online automatically categorizes expenses and syncs with bank accounts, saving time and reducing manual entry errors.

• Invoice Management: Users can create professional invoices, track payments, and send automatic reminders, improving cash flow management.

Step-by-Step Guide to Maximizing QuickBooks Online

Opening the full potential of QuickBooks Online is easier than you might think. By following a few simple steps, users can harness its features to optimize their tax preparation efforts and drive business success.

To maximize the benefits of QuickBooks Online during tax season, businesses should:

1. Set up bank account syncing for seamless expense tracking.

2. Customize invoice templates to reflect branding and ensure professionalism.

3. Utilize reporting tools to gain insights into financial performance and tax liabilities.

Tool #2: QuickBooks Self-Employed

Tailored for the Freelancer and Solopreneur

QuickBooks Self-Employed caters particularly to the unique needs of freelancers and solopreneurs. Its characteristics, such as mileage tracking and simplified tax deductions, empower individuals to take control of their finances with ease.

QuickBooks Self-Employed caters to the unique needs of freelancers, providing features such as:

• Mileage Tracking: Users can track mileage automatically using the mobile app, ensuring accurate deductions for business-related travel.

• Tax Deductions Simplified: QuickBooks Self-Employed categorizes expenses and identifies potential deductions, helping users save money during tax season.

Navigating QuickBooks Self-Employed for Tax Advantages

With QuickBooks Self-Employed, tax preparation becomes a breeze. By accurately tracking expenses, maximizing deductions, and staying organized year-round, freelancers can minimize our tax liability and maximize our financial well-being.

To leverage QuickBooks Self-Employed effectively for tax advantages, freelancers should:

1. Use the mobile app to track mileage for business-related travel.

2. Categorize expenses accurately to maximize deductions.

3. Utilize the tax preparation feature to estimate quarterly taxes and avoid surprises at year-end.

Tool #3: QuickBooks Payroll

Ensuring Employee Satisfaction and Tax Compliance

For businesses with employees, QuickBooks Payroll offers invaluable assistance in managing payroll taxes and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Its automated features streamline the payroll process, saving time and reducing the risk of errors.

QuickBooks Payroll offers features such as:

• Automated Payroll Taxes: The software calculates and withholds payroll taxes automatically, reducing the risk of errors and penalties.

• Employee Payment Features: Users can pay employees via direct deposit or printed checks, streamlining the payroll process and improving employee satisfaction.

Leveraging QuickBooks Payroll for Smooth Tax Seasons

By integrating QuickBooks Payroll into their operations, businesses can mitigate the stress associated with tax season. With features like automated tax calculations and employee payment capabilities, they can focus on running their business with confidence.

To leverage QuickBooks Payroll effectively during tax season, businesses should:

1. Ensure accurate employee data and tax withholdings to avoid discrepancies.

2. Use the reporting feature to generate payroll reports for tax filing purposes.

3. Stay updated on tax regulations and deadlines to ensure compliance.

Integrating QuickBooks Tools into Your Business

Tips for Seamless Integration

Successfully incorporating QuickBooks tools into your business requires careful planning and execution. By following best practices and seeking aid when needed, businesses can maximize the benefits of these powerful software solutions.

• Customize Settings: Tailor QuickBooks settings to align with business preferences and workflows.

• Training and Support: Provide employees with training and support to ensure proper utilization of QuickBooks tools.

• Regular Updates: Stay informed about new features and updates to take full advantage of QuickBooks' capabilities.

Future-Proofing Your Business

Adding a Personal Touch:

In an increasingly automated world, the personal touch of handwritten records adds a sense of authenticity to financial management. It's a reminder of the human aspect behind every transaction and serves as a reflection of individuality and creativity. For entrepreneurs who value authenticity and personal connection, maintaining a handwritten ledger is a meaningful way to infuse personality into their financial processes.

Blending handwritten ledgers with digital tools offers a powerful approach to financial management for modern entrepreneurs. By harnessing the strengths of both analog and digital methods, individuals can enjoy the sensory satisfaction of pen and paper while leveraging the efficiency and convenience of technology. So, whether you're a small business owner or a solopreneur, consider embracing this hybrid approach to unlock new insights and streamline your financial processes.

Staying Ahead of Tax Legislation Changes

Tax laws and regulations are constantly evolving. Businesses should stay informed about changes in tax laws, regulations, and filing requirements at the local, state, and federal levels. This includes keeping abreast of updates from tax authorities, legislative bodies, and professional associations. Review and update tax policies, procedures, and internal controls regularly to align with changes in tax laws and regulations. This ensures that businesses remain compliant and minimize the risk of non-compliance penalties or audits.

Consult with Tax Professionals

Working with tax professionals, such as accountants or tax advisors, can provide valuable insights into regulatory changes and their implications for businesses. Tax professionals can offer personalized guidance, help interpret complex tax laws, and recommend appropriate strategies for compliance and tax optimization. Establishing open communication channels with tax advisors and legal experts fosters collaboration and enables businesses to address tax-related concerns promptly. Regular consultations with advisors can help businesses navigate complex tax issues and adapt to legislative changes effectively.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Proactive tax planning can help businesses minimize tax liabilities and maximize tax savings opportunities within the bounds of the law. By leveraging tax planning strategies such as deductions, credits, and incentives, businesses can optimize their tax position and preserve financial resources. By staying informed about new features and best practices, businesses can future-proof their operations and maintain their competitive edge.

With the evolution of sophisticated accounting software, navigating through tax obligations has become more manageable than ever before. By leveraging streamlined solutions, individuals and businesses can transform tax season into an opportunity for greater financial empowerment and success.

While online tools offer automation, real-time insights, and seamless integration, incorporating a handwritten ledger alongside these digital resources can provide additional benefits. The tactile experience of physically recording transactions can enhance understanding and retention of financial data. Additionally, a handwritten ledger serves as a backup in case of technological failures or data breaches, ensuring the continuity of financial records.

Preparation is paramount. Whether utilizing online tools, a handwritten ledger, or a combination of both, staying organized throughout the year and remaining vigilant about tax legislation changes are essential. By doing so, entrepreneurs can future-proof their businesses, minimize tax liabilities, and achieve their financial goals. With the right tools and strategies, you're equipped to conquer tax season and stride toward greater success.

FAQ:

1. How can accounting software streamline tax preparation?

Modern accounting software simplifies tax preparation by automating tasks, providing real-time insights, and offering comprehensive reporting capabilities. By tracking expenses, managing deductions, and ensuring compliance, entrepreneurs can navigate tax season with ease and accuracy.

2. Why should entrepreneurs consider using both online tools and handwritten ledgers for financial management?

Combining online tools with handwritten ledgers offers a comprehensive approach to financial management. While online tools provide automation and real-time insights, handwritten ledgers offer tactile engagement and serve as a reliable backup in case of technological failures.

3. How can a handwritten ledger complement online accounting software during tax preparation?

A handwritten ledger enhances understanding and retention of financial data while serving as a backup in case of technological failures. By incorporating both methods, entrepreneurs can ensure the continuity of financial records and minimize the risk of data loss.

4. What are the benefits of maintaining a handwritten ledger alongside online tools?

In addition to providing a backup for digital records, a handwritten ledger offers tactile engagement and can enhance comprehension of financial data. This dual approach combines the convenience of online tools with the reliability of handwritten records.

5. How can entrepreneurs effectively integrate a handwritten ledger into their financial management processes?

Integrating a handwritten ledger into financial management processes requires careful coordination with online tools. Entrepreneurs can designate specific transactions for manual entry in the ledger while utilizing online tools for automation and real-time insights. This hybrid approach maximizes the benefits of both methods and ensures comprehensive financial management.

13 Best Business Activities To Grow As An Entrepreneur: Spring & Summer

Co-authored by: Mike Khorev Managing Director at Nine Peaks Media

There is always a task; most of the time, it must be done immediately. That's what an entrepreneur has to do all the time: move pieces, organize activities, lead projects, put out fires, and make things happen. The famous book The Seven Habits of Extremely Effective People by Stephen Covey is right about this. 

We should devote more effort to the tasks that are Not Urgent but important. Every item on this list is firmly in the 2nd & 3rd business quarters, where things are not urgent but are still very important.

Finding time for these things is hard, and you must change how you think about them. But if we want to create, dream, and do well as entrepreneurs, we have to push aside things that are urgent but not important.

5 Activities for Entrepreneurs to Build Business:

1. Make Time for Yourself & Your Team

• Make time for yourself; take regular breaks away from work so you can stay fresh mentally and physically during busy times. Consider setting aside time like this also for your team.

2. Analyze

• Analyze customer data from last year to gain insights into how people responded during those times and use that data to inform decisions this year. Make sure all systems are updated so they’re ready for peak usage periods.

• Review budgeting plans for upcoming projects and promotions taking place over these seasons in order to ensure you have adequate resources allocated for them but also stay within budget limits set forth by your company/team/department managers or executives at large.

• Utilize digital marketing techniques such as SEO, PPC advertising, etc., to maximize visibility online and drive more website traffic during this favorable season.

• Increase staff where necessary, such as call center or customer service departments if there is an increase in demand expected for support services/inquiries due to any campaigns launched or deals offered during this period.

3. Seasonal Trends

• Take advantage of seasonal trends. Identify products or services that are in high demand during this time and create marketing campaigns around them.

• Promote events and activities related to the season. Utilize social media platforms to spread awareness about any upcoming events, special offers, discounts, or activities related to the time of year.

• Create new product launches. Take advantage of the warmer temperatures and longer days by having product launch events outdoors and connecting with customers in unique ways.

4. Get & Stay Ahead

• Stay ahead of the competition by staying up-to-date with market trends and consumer preferences. Monitor competitor activity so you can adjust your marketing strategy when necessary.

• Plan out a content calendar for blog posts, newsletters, emails, etc., that give customers an inside look into what’s going on within your business as well as share helpful resources and advice related to the season.

5. Collaborate

• Look into sponsoring local community events or supporting charities while doing good for others in need and seeing tangible ways your organization can serve; this could include hosting donation drives or charity runs as well as providing discounts on goods/services for those involved with certain causes.

• Reach out to influencers who have a following in your industry and collaborate on content that promotes both your business as well as theirs.

• Find ways to incorporate fun activities into workdays (outdoor lunch breaks, team building outings).

8 Activities to build the Business Owner

1. Preparing the Next Product

The money is in making new things. More and better sales will come if you can make more and better products. Let's say your business is open and doing well. You have customers already. Make another product to better serve these customers and grow your business. They'll purchase it. Your company will do well. You have to plan for the next product before you can make it.

2. Mentoring

If you've ever had someone help you with your business, you know how powerful mentorship can be. There are a lot of people who admire your skills and want to learn from you. The person you mentor could be a friend, an employee, or a co-founder.

Spend time with these people anywhere you find them. There are always two sides to mentoring. You also have things to learn, and it's always good to have someone to discuss your ideas with.

3. Examine your competitors

The best results come from a lot of competition. To be successful, you can't be afraid to look at what your competitors are doing and learn from them. Still, they could be doing something correctly that you can use to make more money in your own business. If you own a restaurant, you might be able to get information by eating at your competitors' places and asking other customers what they think. 

But you could be a company like a chemical company that has much less access to its competitors. In that case, you would collaborate with a business expert and an accountant to look at not only what the business shows the world but also any financial data you can find about the company.

4. Planning the Next Marketing Step

Not every business owner is naturally good at marketing, but every business owner has ideas for marketing. Some of the best business people in the world are not good at business, technology, or making products. They are skilled at marketing.

For example, Steve Jobs was a genius in almost every part of the business.

Looking at his life and work, you can see that he was a great marketer. He started the age of the hyped-up keynote, the suspense of waiting for the next big thing, and TV ads that changed the world. If you spend time dreaming and coming up with new ideas for your marketing, you can have the same degree of success.

5. Human Behavior Research

I'm sure that every business owner should learn about how people act. Studying psychology, motivation, actions, development, or how people think is never a waste of time. You'll know yourself better, for one thing. Also, you'll be able to understand people better. When you know how people think, you can start figuring out what they desire and how to get it.

You know how they make decisions and how to assist them in making good ones. You know how they get into fights and how to keep them from getting worse. You know what makes them confused and how to clear that up. The more you know about people, the better an entrepreneur you will be.

6. Networking

I have something to say. I don't like the word "networking" very much. The way most people think about networking, it seems fake and slick. But we have to use the word. We still need to meet people. To use John Donne's words, no business owner is an island.

Looking at every business you've started, you can probably find someone with a key connection who helped it succeed. You can meet people like this in the strangest places, so it pays to be friendly. You should network all the time, not just at events.

7. Reading

There are some good things about reading books and some bad things. The good news is that some very smart and talented people write powerful and exciting books. The sad fact is that we don't have enough time to read them all because we're too busy.

We can read some of them, thank goodness. It's better to read one book a year than none. A book can change the way you think and your business and give you an idea for your next business. If you don't have time to read, try listening to books. You can likely find a few minutes to listen to just a few minutes of audiobooks on the way to work or during other daily tasks.

8. The Hard Part: Taking Time Off - Ding Ding Ding

The last "activity" isn't significant or much of a business activity. Ah, but it's no less essential. Take a break. Just stop working. Turn off one's phone, leave the house, and don't come back for one day, a week, or even a month. Do it, please. Entrepreneurs must turn off their devices, relax, and do something new. You can complete additional things on this list when you have time off. One unexpected benefit of taking a break is that we sometimes have our most insightful and creative moments during those times.