The Quattro Development Philosophy on Corporate Philanthropy

Home Business Magazine Online

As the public demands more accountability from businesses, many corporations find themselves giving to charity or starting philanthropic campaigns almost as an afterthought. But for the co-founders of Quattro Development, one of the premier small-shop developers in the United States, philanthropy is a core value of their business.

Whether it’s sponsoring Little League teams, assisting at homeless shelters, or offering a leg up to people who want to get started in real estate, Rob Walters and Mike Liyeos believe giving back is a smart way to conduct life and business.

“I spent half of my honeymoon in Prague with some kids from the west side of Chicago that I had met at a YMCA, where I did a Big Brother program. I met my wife at a women’s shelter. Personally, I’ve been involved in quite a bit of different types of philanthropy,” Rob Walters says.

Walters and Liyeos share some of the most recent philanthropic projects they’ve supported through Quattro Development, as well as the impact these initiatives have had on a national scale.

The Quattro Impact Fund

It’s difficult for Walters and Liyeos to invest in philanthropy as much as they would like, but the duo does their best to put charity work at the top of their list. Before founding Quattro Development, Walters got a taste of philanthropy by establishing the nonprofit First Chance.

‘“I had co-foundedthis nonprofit out of college called First Chance to raise money for kids who just don’t get the opportunities to study abroad or volunteer abroad to be able to do that as juniors in high school,” Rob Walters explains. Eventually the nonprofit wound down as Walters and his co-founder moved into different phases of their lives, but Walters always wanted to try philanthropy again.

When Quattro Development got on its feet, Walters and Liyeos knew that giving back was something they were eager to pursue, so they set up the Quattro Impact Fund.

They didn’t necessarily have a goal for the fund, but they knew they wanted to use the cash when there was a cause that needed their help. “The whole point was to set up a fund where we could set aside money for giving away,” Walters says. “Over a few years, we ended up giving well into the six figures.” The pair gave away to multiple deserving causes, ranging from donating to food pantries, to helping fund a documentary that an army veteran suffering from PTSD was creating to paying for the funeral of a friend that was made at a homeless shelter.

The Quattro Impact Fund lapsed as Quattro grew because it complicated the company’s tax filings. But the co-owners have plans to restart a similar initiative in the future. “It’s still the goal to continue to do things like that and be able to share in the profits of our company with things that we find valuable outside of business,” Rob Walters explains.

Little League Team Sponsorships and Giving Back

Rob Walters and Mike Liyeos also believe that it’s important to get kids involved in charitable actions.

“When my son was 12 years old, his baseball team was going to an out-of-town tournament in Cooperstown, New York, which is where the Baseball Hall of Fame is. It’s expensive to go and not all families could afford to go,” Mike Liyeos explains. “ I thought it’d be great if Quattro Development could sponsor part of that to allow that trip to happen. Rather than just put up the money, I thought it’d be more rewarding for each of the kids to know that they were working and contributing to the world to earn this sponsorship.”

In exchange for paying the team’s way to Cooperstown, Quattro Development asked the athletes to volunteer once a month at a homeless shelter. The experience was a home run for everyone. The homeless shelter got a team of eager volunteers, and the athletes were able to attend the game without worrying about finances.

One-on-One Outreach

Walters and Liyeos have also done personal outreach to those in need. One year, while attending the International Council of Shopping Centers in Las Vegas, they met a man on the street who was experiencing homelessness. “He ended up telling us his life story and explained how he was trying to find a job, but he didn’t have a driver’s license because he didn’t have a home address. If he could get a driver’s license, that would just be the first step to getting a job and changing his life,” Mike Liyeos says.

Liyeos and Walters drove the man four hours to meet with a family member who could give him a place to stay. “We took him to Walmart and we bought him clothes and lunch at Subway and heard more about his life story,” Liyeos says. “I’ll get a call from him once or twice a year. He reminds us every time we talk to him how he was able to change his life because we had faith in him, and he totally believes that us taking that chance on him redirected his life to move in a more positive direction.”

Building a Brighter Future Through Corporate Philanthropy

Walters and Liyeos give back through Quattro Development because they feel it’s the right thing to do. But giving back has permanently changed how the two-approach business as well.

They believe it’s added more humility and fairness to how they conduct business. “I think we try to be humble,” Liyeos says. “We’re probably fair to a fault,” Walters chimes in.

For example, because of their unique perspective, the two haven’t taken developer fees on their deals in recent years. “I think a lot of developers think that’s crazy,” Walters says. Instead, Quattro earns a living by doing profitable projects. “If a project works out then we’ll get paid. If it doesn’t, then we should have done a better job,” Walters concludes. Quattro has yet to lose money on any of its projects.

Whether it’s through philanthropy or their humble approach to business, the co-owners of Quattro Development believe that treating people well will bring something good back to the firm. “If we service their needs, then the business will take care of itself,” Mike Liyeos concludes.

The post The Quattro Development Philosophy on Corporate Philanthropy appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/success-tips/quattro-development-philosophy-corporate-philanthropy/

Make money from the local elections – be a poll clerk

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The local elections will be held on Thursday, May 4th this year. Many people don’t realise that local elections are more than a chance to cast your vote — they are an opportunity to make money.

When you vote in any election, you’ll almost certainly have noticed the poll clerks overseeing everything.

However, have you ever considered making a bit of extra cash as a poll clerk yourself? Can you make yourself free for the whole day?

If so, you can earn around £250 for a day’s work in a polling station.

It’s a quick and easy money-making idea and ideal if you are retired or a student.

In this article, we explain how to become a poll clerk. Read on to learn how you can be a part of political history — and get paid for it.

Who can become a poll clerk?

Make money from elections - be a poll clerk

Anyone is eligible to act as a poll clerk, providing they are over 18, literate and numerate and not a member of a political party participating in the election.

The only other requirement is that applicants must be on the electoral roll – if you’re not, you really should be. Not being on the electoral roll can damage your credit rating!

If you’re not on the electoral roll you can register to vote on the Government’s official website. You can also find your local Electoral Registration Office by clicking here. Alternatively, give your local authority a call. 

What’s involved?

As a poll clerk, you are there to set-up the polling station and make sure correct procedure is followed throughout the day, including after voting closes.

Your duties include checking people are eligible to vote, checking and marking electoral numbers, stamping and issuing ballot papers, and, crucially, making certain that votes are cast in secret and put into the ballot box. 

You answer to the  Presiding Officer, who is the official in charge of a polling station.

It’s a long day, usually from early morning (before 7am) till at least 10pm when the voting finishes.

You can also apply to help count the ballot papers in the evening, but be aware that this is, as you can probably imagine, pretty frantic work.

For more information on the duties of a poll clerk, and the requirements to become one, things are summarised well by Croydon Council or you can look at the Handbook for Polling Station Staff here.

Make money from elections - be a poll clerk

 

How much can I make?

The amount you earn varies from council to council so it depends on where you apply.

You should be getting at least £100 for the day and councils who pay the most will offer £250 or more.

To find out how much your local council pays, simply visit their website and search ‘poll clerk’. For a list of local authorities in England and Wales, click here.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that if you have worked at a polling station on at least two other occasions, you can apply to become a Presiding Officer, which means more money!

Leeds City Council gives a good summary of the duties of a Presiding Officer and what you must have to become one.

How do I apply?

Usually, poll clerks have worked for their local council, but this experience is not a prerequisite.

Most councils and local authorities have information on how to become a poll clerk on their website

Either visit their website and search ‘poll clerk’, or simply Google ‘become a poll clerk’ followed by your town, city, or council. For a list of council websites, click here

Alternatively, you can call your local authority and ask for the Elections and Registration Office, or send them an email telling them that you’re interested. They’ll send you a form if they need clerks.

Don’t leave it until a week before an election to apply because the positions will probably already be filled – it’s better to apply sooner rather than later.

Some local authorities recruit all year round so you can keep applying and be put on a waiting list for the next election.

If you are selected as a poll clerk you will attend a training/briefing session and then be sworn in the day before the election.

On Election Day, a Presiding Officer oversees the whole station and will supervise and instruct you.

Have you ever made money as a polling clerk? Do you have any other good money making ideas? Let us know in the comments section below – we love to hear from you!

The post Make money from the local elections – be a poll clerk appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/poll-clerk-make-money-from-the-local-elections

Join the Zoo-normous Easter egg Hunt this April

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Join the zoo-normous Easter egg hunt at London Zoo this April!

Looking for somewhere fun to take the little ones this Easter break? Hop on down to London Zoo for an Easter egg hunt like you have never seen before! 

Now is the time to put on your thinking caps and switch on detective mode. Families visiting the conservation zoo will be tasked with cracking secret codes. This will help to find the golden egg, hidden amongst the 36 acres of wildlife. 

Between Saturday 1st and Sunday 16th April 2023, you can join the search for the zoo’s egg-laying animals in the heart of the capital city. From Humboldt penguins, ostriches and clown fish to beautiful and elegant flamingos, there are stunning and interesting species to see wherever you look. 

Cunning wildlife-themed riddles and clues will be used to test the most devoted of animal lovers. So, get your friends and family involved for an egg-citing day out. 

Biotechnology & Medical Research (NEC)

The zoo is home to Critically Endangered Sumatra tiger cubs Zac and Crispin. You’ll also see Galapagos tortoises Polly, Dolly and Priscila. You’ll find clues all over the establishment, seeing cheeky gibbon Jimmy along the way. The whole family will be inspired and gain a real passion for wildlife in this unique day out. 

Children will be given special code-cards at each spot, which they can stamp. This will help them un-scramble the code and decipher the top-secret location of the Golden Egg Garden – home to a magnificent golden egg. Step aside, James Bond – your little ones will take on this mission. 

After all the excitement of the Easter fun, you can check out new arrivals at the zoo, including Amara the pygmy hippo and baby sloth Nova. You can also listen to interesting talks from zookeepers and let your little monkeys burn off steam at the Animal Adventure play area. 

Plus, the Zoo-normous egg hunt is free – meaning there are no additional costs to join in. You just need to pay zoo entry, and under 3s go free. Find out more. 

The post Join the Zoo-normous Easter egg Hunt this April appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/join-the-zoo-normous-easter-egg-hunt-this-april

5 must-know Reddit Ads tactics for B2B marketers

Millennials and Gen Zers are set to dominate B2B buying committees this year, so keeping up with them is a must.

More than knowing the latest trends, we must continually assess:

  • Where this target audience is. (What platforms are they on?)
  • Where they are engaging with content.
  • What type of material they are consuming.
  • And most importantly, how to win their trust and keep it. 

On the flip side, all marketers know many platforms today are overcrowded with advertisers.

This is an uphill battle for B2B marketers competing against the often punchier and eye-grabbing creative for B2C brands. 

Enter Reddit Ads. B2B marketers can leverage Reddit to stand out from the crowd and stay in front of target audiences.

This article will outline tactical recommendations if you want to test the platform for the first time or need help to improve current campaigns.

1. Conversation placement ads > standard ads

Why use standard promoted ads when you can engage prospects when they are the most engaged? 

Conversation placement ads, positioned immediately after the original post and before the first comment, were created in 2021 to get brands where users spend most of their time – in a conversation thread.

Picture this. You’re a business interested in placing an ad on Reddit.

You go to the platform, learn about “Google Ads” and navigate to a conversation thread comparing three solutions you believe are right for your business.

Surprise, you can place your ad right there to add more information about your business. 

Reddit conversation placements

Since Reddit ranks organically, this increases your chances of showing up at the right time, especially when prospects are actively researching – particularly important for niche searches or verticals.

2. Instead of uploading emails lists, create website remarketing pools

B2B marketers love good email remarketing. While it’s available on Reddit, match rates for business emails are very low. 

Since email domains are not a popular option – unless you are paying for a solution like Liveramp – there is only one other alternative.

Set up the Reddit pixel across your website. You only need 50 users to start promoting your ads, and you can say hello to untapped niche audiences. 

The Reddit pixel is also a great window to confirm your best audience, whether it’s your current customers (if you have a login section on your website) or customers who land on your confirmation page (if you are a B2B ecommerce site).

Other advantages of using the Reddit pixel include:

  • Ability to set up lookback windows between 1 and 90 days.
  • Option to include and exclude pixel events to make sure you are not overlapping audiences
  • Flexible conversion events ranging from pageviews and view content to lead and purchase.

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3. Find the right subreddits to target

Reddit is formed by communities called subreddits, typically denoted by a “r/” prefix preceding the category’s name. 

Subreddits can also be bucketed into larger topics, for example, gaming, crypto, or television, among many others.

You might be wondering how to find the best subreddits to place your ads.

This interactive tool allows users to map out subreddits and see how they connect to other related or more specific subreddits. 

For example, you can start by searching for the r/emailmarketing subreddit, and the tool will auto-generate a web of related subreddits, which you can then sort by category (i.e., new, hot, rising, and top). 

For marketers, this means easily finding niche audiences that fall under subreddits you may otherwise not have known existed.

Related subreddits

On the map above, the starting category is marketing automation which is highly correlated to other big categories such as digital marketing, email marketing, content marketing, and growth hacking. 

But the map indicates that marketing automation can also be tied to more niche subreddits such as CRM, B2B SaaS, B2B marketing, and HubSpot, to name a few.

4. Content is king

While all the tactics we’ve reviewed are very helpful performance drivers, at the end of the day, a truly successful Reddit ad is contingent upon content quality.

Reddit users visit the platform to find “their people” – communities with a shared interest. 

These communities are the lifeblood of the platform and the source of the raw, honest information users seek. 

As marketers, we simply can’t use the same whitepaper or demo we might leverage on Google or LinkedIn Ads. 

This doesn’t mean advertising on Reddit or creating powerful content for Reddit has to cost you a lot of money. 

Rather, we need to shift our mindset to creating content that will be engaging and interactive, such as: 

  • Free trials: The Reddit community is all about learning about new products or brands, so let them try you for free! No strings attached. This will boost conversion rates and puts you in a position to target niche communities and untapped audiences.
  • Alphas or betas: Get honest feedback you can then upsell. This is magic content for B2B promotions via Reddit Ads. You can also set up a sales nurture track with your business development and product teams (it wins you points internally, too!) to automate follow-up time and get prospects on the phone engaged with the right stakeholders, which makes the prospect feel like a partner versus just another lead. Win-win! 

5. Control is key: Inventory types for sensitive B2B markets

Some industries are deemed sensitive within the B2B umbrella (i.e., healthcare, government, and pharmaceutical). 

Controlling where your content might appear is of the utmost importance if you’re part of one of these industries. 

To address this, Reddit released a feature called “inventory type” in 2020, which allows you to control your reach within the platform.

There are three inventory types on Reddit:

  • Expanded inventory.
  • Standard inventory.
  • Limited inventory.

The limited inventory category, created in partnership with Oracle Data Cloud’s contextual intelligence, goes through Reddit rules and systems and third-party filtering, thanks to Oracle. This ensures advertisers can strengthen their brands through a regulated approach.

Many marketers have also expressed concerns about brand safety on Reddit, which often stem from a lack of understanding and the misconception that Reddit ads can appear almost anywhere and in any community. 

This isn’t true. Ads on Reddit can only appear in hand-picked communities, and you can even enable or disable comments on your ads. 

For even more control, marketers can include or exclude audiences so only the right people to see your ads.

Your target audience is very likely on Reddit! 

Sometimes an overlooked platform, Reddit is a great opportunity for B2B advertisers to reach niche communities while strategically diversifying media plans. 

Wondering if your audience is on the platform? Reddit is the fifth most visited website in the U.S., according to Semrush.

Follow the tactics outlined above and experiment with what’s possible on Reddit. It just may be the opportunity you’ve been looking for to fuel your marketing efforts.

The post 5 must-know Reddit Ads tactics for B2B marketers appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/reddit-ads-tactics-b2b-marketers-394963

2023 Salary & Career guide: How much search marketers make

Search marketers earn anywhere from $60,000 to $220,000 in annual compensation (salary and bonuses), on average, according to a new Search Engine Land survey. 

Why we care. Search marketing is an attractive and satisfying career choice that can, over time, become increasingly lucrative. The keys to earning that higher compensation? Seniority, role and the size of the company or organization you work for.

By the numbers. VP and C-level positions earn the most – $220,613 in annual compensation, on average. Directors and senior directors earn $122,760; managers $87,688; and staff $60,866, all on average.

Average search marketer salaries in U.S. dollars.
Average search marketer salaries in U.S. dollars.
  • Those who hold the position of VP or higher make 3.62 times more than their staff, according to our survey. 
VPs and higher make 3.62 times staff
VPs and higher make 3.62 times staff

Salaries vary greatly within roles. Averages sometimes can be misleading. So let’s break that down a bit further to get a more nuanced view:

  • VP and C-level positions range from $50,000 to $400,000.
  • Director and senior director-level salaries range from $25,000 to $300,000.
  • Manager-level salaries range from $15,000 to $300,000.
Salaries vary greatly within roles

Why the variance? Location is one big reason (see our Methodology section below). But there are more factors, such as the size of the organization and years of experience.

Case in point. Respondents who work at the largest companies get greater compensation. Search marketers at organizations with more than 10,000 employees earned $169,988, on average.

Respondents who work at the largest companies get greater compensation.
  • 41% of the search marketers in our survey work at companies with more than 500 employees.
More than 40% of search marketers work at companies with more than 500 employees.

Compensation increases with seniority. Years of experience typically translate into higher compensation.

The first jump in salary comes around year six or seven (~$66,000 to ~$88,000), and the second salary jump comes when you reach year 10 (~$88,000 to ~$120,000), our data showed:

Compensation increases with seniority.

Graduate degrees don’t factor in compensation. Of the 276 respondents who answered this question, 66% said they did not have a graduate degree and earned $95,039, on average.

Meanwhile, 16% reported having a graduate degree in business, but their average salary was only slightly higher at $98,988, on average.

Graduate degrees not a factor in compensation
  • Context: In the U.S., 14.4% of those age 25 and older hold an advanced degree (master’s, professional or doctoral), according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

Meanwhile, more than 90% of search marketers have an undergraduate degree.

More than 90% of search marketers have an undergraduate degree.

64% work at brands; 32% at agencies. Nearly two-thirds of respondents worked at brands. 

Nearly two-thirds of respondents worked at brands. 
  • Almost half (47%) of those working at brands primarily reported into marketing, while 15% reported to digital or ecommerce.

The majority (72%) of respondents said their role was digital marketing.

7 in 10 said their role was digital marketing.

Of the 11% who answered “other,” more than half had “SEO” in their title.

Methodology. We surveyed 510 marketers between Jan. 11 to 23; 413 of those provided salary information. Invitations to take the survey were amplified on and by Search Engine Land.

Nearly 67% of the 510 respondents live in North America; 20% live in Western Europe. The conclusions in this report are limited to responses from those individuals only. Others were excluded due to the limited number.

The survey had more than 20 questions related to career roles, salary, technology, job satisfaction and challenges/frustrations. Respondents were given the opportunity to reveal their age and gender. 

More to come. Over the next two days, we’ll look at the differences in salaries and careers of women and men, and also dig deeper into roles and responsibilities.

The post 2023 Salary & Career guide: How much search marketers make appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/search-marketer-salary-career-guide-2023-394881

Stay in the Loop: How China Post Tracking Keeps You Updated on Your Parcel’s Delivery Journey

Home Business Magazine Online

One courier that is frequently used for shipping from China is China Post. In this article, we will delve into the ins and outs of tracking China Post packages and provide valuable insights to make your shipping experience hassle-free.

Tracking China Post Packages: What You Need to Know

China Post is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a dependable and affordable shipping option from China. To ensure that your package reaches its destination promptly and undamaged, it is necessary to track it throughout the shipping process. Here are some essential tips to help you track your China Post packages:

  • Use a trustworthy tracking website: There are numerous websites online that provide tracking services for packages sent by China Post. Not all of them, though, can be trusted or relied upon. It is advised to use a reliable website that provides real-time tracking data, such as PKGE.net.
  • Get a tracking number: A tracking number is necessary to follow the progress of your China Post package. This number is typically provided by the seller, or it may be written on your shipping invoice. It is essential to keep this number safe and secure as it is required to track your package.
  • Recognize the tracking procedure: China Post employs a complicated tracking system that can be difficult to comprehend for novice users. Understanding the tracking process is crucial if you want to receive accurate updates about the whereabouts of your package.
  • Check the tracking information frequently: To stay informed about the status of the package, it is advised to frequently check the tracking information. This will allow you to take necessary action in case of any delays or issues.

Simplify Parcel Tracking with PKGE for China Post Deliveries

If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to track your China Post parcel, PKGE is an excellent solution. To get started, all you need is the tracking number provided by China Post, and then you can simply input the code into PKGE’s tracking tool. With just a few clicks, you’ll be able to see the most up-to-date information about your parcel’s delivery journey, including estimated delivery dates and times, as well as any updates on potential delays or issues. Plus, PKGE provides real-time notifications so that you can stay in the loop on your parcel’s delivery status. Tracking your China Post deliveries has never been simpler.

Benefits of Tracking China Post Packages

Tracking your China Post package offers several benefits, including:

  • Peace of mind: Knowing where your package is and when it will arrive at its destination provides peace of mind.
  • Improved communication: Tracking your package allows you to communicate effectively with the recipient and seller, providing updates on the package’s status.
  • Minimizes the risk of loss or damage: Tracking your package enables you to take necessary action if the package is delayed or lost. This minimizes the risk of loss or damage.
  • Saves time and money: Tracking your package saves time and money by providing accurate information on the package’s location, allowing you to plan accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tracking China Post packages is essential to ensure timely and hassle-free shipping. By following the tips mentioned above and using a reliable tracking website like PKGE.net, you can stay updated on your package’s status and avoid any issues during the shipping process. Remember, tracking your package not only provides peace of mind but also minimizes the risk of loss or damage, saves time and money, and improves communication with the recipient and seller. So, start tracking your China Post packages today and enjoy a hassle-free shipping experience.

The post Stay in the Loop: How China Post Tracking Keeps You Updated on Your Parcel’s Delivery Journey appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/business-spotlights/china-post-tracking-keeps-updated-parcels-delivery-journey/

Demystifying Digital Marketing Automation for Small Businesses – A Complete Guide

Home Business Magazine Online

Digital marketing is a specialism that can be completely transformed through automation, and so it’s worth taking note of if you run a small business and don’t have a huge in-house team to take care of promotional tasks manually.

To learn more about this influential niche of modern marketing, stick around and we’ll give you the lowdown on what you need to know.

What Is Digital Marketing Automation and Why Should Small Businesses Care?

Digital marketing automation (DMA) is a process of using technology to automate repetitive digital marketing tasks. It allows small businesses to save time, resources, and reach more customers by automating their online activities such as website visits, email campaigns, and social media interactions.

DMA also helps boost overall efficiency when it comes to managing customer relationships across multiple channels, from initial contact all the way through conversion. By taking advantage of this powerful asset, small businesses can stay ahead of the competition while still maintaining good customer service standards.

Identifying Your Goals: Crafting a Winning Strategy for Automated Digital Marketing

Before you can begin to take advantage of digital marketing automation, it’s important to understand your goals. What do you want to achieve? Are you looking to increase website visits and improve your conversion rates, drive more sales, or boost customer engagement?

Once these objectives are identified, they should be used as the foundation of your automation strategy. From there, you can pinpoint which channels will work best in reaching those goals, and create an action plan that outlines each step needed in order for them to be accomplished successfully.

By doing this upfront planning stage correctly, small businesses can develop a strong framework on which their automated campaigns will run smoothly and efficiently, providing maximum results with minimal effort.

Setting Up Your Systems: Tools & Platforms You Need for Successful Automation

In order to make the most of your digital marketing automation, you need to have the right tools and platforms in place.

Depending on your goals and needs, these may vary from one business to another, but popular choices include the salesforce marketing cloud for advanced personalization capabilities or Hootsuite for scheduling social media posts.

Other useful services are A/B testing software that helps optimize campaigns by allowing businesses to test different versions of their content against each other.

Gaining an understanding of how these systems work will allow small businesses to effectively set up automated processes.

Time-Saving Tips to Maximize Efficiency with Digital Marketing Automation

Utilizing digital marketing automation can be a great way for small businesses to save time and resources while still gaining the maximum returns. To ensure you are making the most of your automated processes, here are some helpful tips:

  • Set up triggers that will automatically kick off tasks at specific times — this could include emails or social media posts.
  • Schedule campaigns and promotions in advance so that they go out at a point that will maximize their reach and enhance engagement.
  • Harness AI-powered chatbots as another layer of customer service — these can provide answers to frequently asked questions quickly, and free up employees’ valuable time.
  • Create personalized content based on campaign data — this allows businesses to target customers more accurately based on their past interactions.

Final Thoughts

Even with all of the automation that’s achievable with modern digital marketing tools, you still need to be adept at putting them to work for you, and willing to accept that they aren’t infallible. Only by digging into the data of each campaign can you see whether you’re hitting the mark, or whether improvements are needed for the next batch of promotional content.

The post Demystifying Digital Marketing Automation for Small Businesses – A Complete Guide appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/marketing/internet-marketing/demystifying-digital-marketing-automation-small-businesses-complete-guide/

Cash for Trash? Currys extend scheme to your doorstep

Reading Time: 3 mins

Last year, tech giant Currys has launched a ‘Cash for Trash’ trial scheme. A year on, the scheme is still going. This is where customers can take their unwanted or unused electronic items to their nearest Currys store in exchange for a voucher worth at least £5 to use on their next in-store or online purchase.

Now, the UK’s largest tech retailer is bringing the opportunity directly to your door, announcing the new door-to-door recycling service, ‘Currys Collects’. So, what is this new initiative and what does it involve?

 

the scheme

This new initiative follows on from the success of the Cash for Trash scheme, which has seen over 46,500 tonnes of electrical goods, household appliances and tech recycled in the last year. However, understanding there may be thousands of potential customers unable to come into the store, Currys are bring the scheme to people’s doors.

Disregarded electrical items and tech is the fastest-growing waste stream in the UK. A whopping 155,000 tonnes of e-waste is thrown into household bins every year. We are one of the world’s largest producers of e-waste, producing 23.9kg per head on average.

With 190,000 tonnes of unused electrical items being hoarded by UK households at this very moment, Currys Collects is designed to raise awareness of how to correctly dispose of tech devices.

 

What will be collected?

This new scheme couldn’t come at a better time. New research has revealed that 76% of people feel guilty for not recycling tech properly. Another 38% admitted that they do not know how to dispose of electrical goods correctly, either. Shockingly, more than one in three 18 to 34 year olds (35%), said they had no idea small batteries, such as those from a TV remote, could be recycled. An estimated 600 million batteries end up in landfill each year.

The pilot scheme, currently taking place in Bradford sees a Currys Collects electric van driving around the city, collecting unwanted tech from people’s front doors. Additionally, the bank will park up at the local community centre. This is for drop-in centres, where experts will answer questions the public may have, as well as collect tech in exchange for £5 cash for trash vouchers.

The items being collected include a huge array of items, including anything that uses wiring or batteries, such as batteries, chargers, cables, beauty appliances such as hair straighteners and dryers. The scheme also happily collects kitchen appliances, including kettles and toasters.

cash for trash

what currys are saying

Mandeep Gobindpuri, Head of Circular Economy at Currys said:

We know that people want to recycle – our survey found that 84% of the nation said they would recycle their old tech – but more than half either don’t know how to or lack the means to do so. Our new service aims to address both issues by collecting and educating the public. And what better time than spring to look into your cupboards for all those idle cables, outdated phones, broken remotes and used batteries. Virtually anything that houses a plug or battery holds value through its materials, no matter how damaged it is. We’re hoping to make it as easy as possible to recycle your unwanted or broken tech – and in a small way, help us live more sustainably.“We are making great progress on educating the nation about tech recycling and going into 2023, Currys Collects takes that one step further by bringing it right to people’s doors. We hope the Currys Collects pilot is a success and that we can eventually take nationwide.’”

 

Where else can you take unwanted items?

There are other ways to get cash for things like smartphones, satellite navigation systems, speakers, headphones, laptops and cameras. Businesses including CeX, Cash Generator and MoneyMyTech are a good place to start. MoneyMyTech gives people the chance to sell certain unwanted tech goods. All you have to do is review the quote you’re offered, and complete a sequence of steps.

We offer you a guide to is another way of getting cash for your old unwanted CDs here, while WeeeCharity is a not-for-profit UK charity that recycles nearly every kind of electrical item, regardless of condition. They provide these items to businesses, consumers and education facilities in need of them.

Where is my nearest Currys?

Once we have decided what we want to take, literally just take the items to your nearest Currys store. Find out where it is here.

You can also find out more about the Cash for Trash scheme here.

The post Cash for Trash? Currys extend scheme to your doorstep appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/currys-offer-cash-for-your-trash

Get a free cup of tea this April

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Get a free cup of tea this April.

It’s no secret that we Brits love a good cup of tea. Whether you are a herbal tea person, prefer an Earl Grey or are a fan of the classic English breakfast builder’s tea, it’s no surprise we drink a staggering 36 billion cups of the stuff every year. 

Forget the debates about the order you put tea, water and milk into your mug, this National Tea Day, let’s just enjoy the good stuff. National Tea Day is on Friday 21st April, and Bird & Blend Tea Co. are offering a free cup of tea in stores across the UK between 11 am and 12pm. 

When we say there is more tea available than you could even fathom, we mean it. Bird & Blend stores offer over 100 tea blends, showcased on the famous tea walls. With that many blends on offer, you are bound to find something suited to your taste buds. Plus, the fact that it will be free will make it taste just that bit better. 

Flavours include Chocolate Digestives, Blue Raspberry, Whisktea, Birthday Cake, Peppermint Cream, Cherry Bakewell, Jasmine Poached Pears, Tea & Toast, Honeycomb Cookie D’oh, Cherry Cola Bottles, Earl Grey Crème and Great British Cuppa. You may even opt to try something new and enter a world of flavours you never knew existed. 

 

Which stores are offering this?

  • Brighton North Laine 
  • Brighton Beach 
  • Bristol 
  • Cardiff 
  • Exeter 
  • Glasgow 
  • London Angel 
  • London Borough 
  • London Portobello 
  • Manchester 
  • Norwich 
  • Nottingham 
  • Oxford 
  • Worthing 

 

How to make the perfect cuppa

Tea really is ingrained in cultures across the world. It has a long and rich history dating back thousands of years to the Zhejiang province in China.  

But for those in the UK today, a cup of tea is a vital part of everyday life. It can bring comfort to everyone, with the first thing most of us do when we arrive home is put the kettle on, ready for a nice brew. 

Plus, a cup of tea really is appropriate for any occasion. Having a bad day? Cup of tea. Have a headache? Cup of tea. Enjoying a nice slice of cake? Well, it wouldn’t be the same without a cup of tea. 

Whether you’re a milk first or last, a tea bag squeezer, a scoop-er or a loose-leaf connoisseur, here’s how to ensure you get that perfect cup of tea every time. 

Select your perfect tea

Tea as to suit the mood. Need an energy boost? A classic breakfast tea might be the one for you. Want to relax after a long day? Chamomile may be the hug in a mug you’re looking for. If you are cutting back on caffeine, try a fruit infusion.  

Choose your teacup

We all have that one, particular mug we reach for first when going to make tea. Somehow, we find comfort in that special teacup, a fondness we cannot quite explain. Whether it’s the ‘Worlds Best Mum’ mug, the one that you have had so long you can’t even remember where it came from, or the posh one you splashed out on in a high-end department store on a whim, your vessel of choice determines your whole experience. 

Boil fresh water

Now hear us out. We want to save you money, so don’t go boiling a full, fresh kettle full of water every time you make yourself a cup of tea. We don’t want to send your electricity bill through the roof! Instead, measure out the exact amount of water you need using your mug. This allows for great, oxygenated tea, which tastes just that bit better. 

Read the instructions

Instructions? For tea? We sense you are scoffing… 

Well, everyone enjoys their tea differently. However, if you are trying a new brew that you aren’t too keen on, check the instructions. You may have brewed it too much, or not enough! Try following the recommended brewing times – you may just find this helps! 

 

Now sit back, relax, put your feet up, and enjoy every sip of your perfectly made tea. Oh, and remember to pic up your free cup of tea on April 21st!

The post Get a free cup of tea this April appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/get-a-free-cup-of-tea-this-april

Google launches Perspectives, About this author and more ways to verify information

Google is officially rolling out some new features designed to help searchers better and more easily verify information within the search results.

What’s new. Google is:

  • Rolling out the About this result globally.
  • Launching Perspectives for top stories.
  • Launching About this author.
  • Making it easier to access the About this page feature.

Let’s dig in.

About this result expands globally: The Google About this result feature, which launched in 2021 to help searchers learn more about the sources and sites they see in Google Search, is now expanding to all languages. If you don’t see it yet, you should within the next few days.

By clicking the three dots next to most search results, you can learn more about where the information is coming from and how Google determined it would be useful for a query

Perspectives. Google has been testing Perspectives in Google Search since August 2022 and now it is rolling out in the English US results. The Perspectives carousel will appear below Top Stories and showcase insights from a range of journalists, experts and other relevant voices on the topic you’re searching for.

Here is what it looks like:

Alphabet Inc.

About this author. The About this author will be in the About this result. Now when people tap on the three dots readers will be able to find more information about the background and experience of the news voices surfaced on Google Search, Google explained.

So maybe your authors might matter a bit more with this feature?

Access to About this page. Google also said it is making it easier to access the About this page feature. You can now type in the URL of the organization in Google Search and information from About this page will populate at the top of the Google Search results.

You’ll be able to quickly see how the website describes itself, what others on the web have said about the site and any recent coverage of it.

Here is how it looks:

artificial intelligence

Why we care. With Google surfacing more information about your site, the authors and your page to searchers, making it clear to searchers that you can trust the site, the authors and the content on the page have become more and more important.

Not only that, Google can surface other perspectives around topics that already are ranking well in top stories, which gives publishers and content creators more visibility within the Google Search results.

Dig deeper. Read Google’s official announcement: Five new ways to verify info with Google Search.

The post Google launches Perspectives, About this author and more ways to verify information appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-launches-perspectives-about-this-author-and-more-ways-to-verify-information-394920