Category: Internet Marketing

Home Business Magazine Online

The traditional 9–5 job is quickly becoming a relic of the past, as more and more people are embracing home businesses to make a living. Running a home business is now the new norm, with more people than ever before launching their own businesses, freelancing, and working from home. Technological advances make this trend possible. They enable people to work remotely and make a living from the comfort of their own homes.

In this article, we explore eleven facts that demonstrate how running a home business is now the new norm. We will dive into the digital economy, the rise of self-employment, the advantages of working from home, the growing appetite for freelancing and side hustles, and for home offices and remote working. By the time you finish reading this article, you will have an in-depth understanding of why running a home business is now the norm.

The Rise of the Digital Economy

The digital economy is now a major force in Ireland, with the Technology Ireland IBEC 2021 Report revealing that it accounted for about 13% of Ireland’s GDP. Advances in technology drive this growth, with the internet enabling businesses to access new markets, automate processes, and reduce their overheads. This enables more and more people to set up their own businesses and work from home, creating a new wave of self-employed people and home-based businesses.

Self-Employment and Home-Based Businesses on the Rise

Self-employment in the UK has steadily increased since the late 2000s. Moreover, it continues to rise. According to the ONS, there were 4.96 million self-employed people in the UK in 2019, accounting for 15.1% of the UK’s workforce. This is a significant increase from 2014, when there were just 4.3 million self-employed people in the UK, accounting for 13.7% of the workforce. The increasing popularity of home-based businesses drives this trend, with more and more people launching their own businesses and freelancing.

The Benefits of Working from Home

Working from home has a number of advantages, both for individuals and businesses. It allows people to work flexibly and avoid the costs and stresses associated with commuting. It also enables them to create their own working environment and set their own hours, allowing them to be more productive and better manage their work-life balance.

Working from home also eliminates the need for expensive office space, enabling businesses to reduce their overheads and become more profitable. What’s more, it also allows people to experience a better work-life balance, as they can work from home and still have time for their families.

Many of the benefits of working from home and trends in home working are featured in this infographic from Corcoran’s of Ireland:

The Growing Popularity of Freelancing and Side Hustles

More and more people are now turning to freelancing and side hustles to supplement their incomes. This is largely thanks to the internet, which enables people to connect with clients and customers from all over the world.

This growth is being driven by the increasing popularity of gig economy jobs, such as Uber and Deliveroo, as well as the growing number of people launching their own businesses and freelancing. What’s more, advances in technology have also enabled people to work remotely and access new markets.

Home Offices and Remote Working Are Now Commonplace

Home offices and remote working are now commonplace, with more and more businesses allowing their employees to work from home. According to the ONS, over half of all employees in the UK worked from home in 2020. In addition, this number is expected to rise. This trend is driven by the increased use of technology, which has enabled businesses to reduce their overheads and increase their productivity by allowing their employees to work from home.

Remote working has also enabled businesses to access new markets, as they can now employ people from anywhere in the world.

Flexible Working and Virtual Offices Are Increasingly Popular

Flexible working and virtual offices are becoming increasingly popular. More businesses take advantage of the cost savings and increased efficiency they offer. Flexible working allows employees to work from home or wherever they choose and set their own hours, while virtual offices allow businesses to use technology to create an office environment without needing to rent physical office space.

This has enabled businesses to become more flexible and reduce their overheads. In addition, it is becoming an increasingly popular option for home businesses. What’s more, it has also enabled businesses to access new markets, as they can now employ remote workers from any location.

Independent Contractors and Solopreneurs Are Thriving

Independent contractors and solopreneurs are now becoming more and more common. This trend is being driven by the increasing popularity of freelancing and side hustles, as well as the rise of the gig economy and the growing number of people setting up their own businesses. This is being made possible by advances in technology, which have enabled people to access new markets, automate processes, and reduce their overheads.

Online Businesses and Remote Working Are on the Rise

Online businesses and remote working are becoming increasingly popular, with the number of people working remotely in Ireland rising in recent years. The rise of the digital economy drives this trend, as well as advances in technology, which have enabled more and more businesses to move online and allow their employees to work remotely. Remote working has enabled businesses to access new markets and reduce their overheads. Moreover, it is becoming a popular option for businesses of all sizes.

Home-Based Careers and Freelance Economies Are Growing

Home-based careers and freelance economies continue to grow rapidly. This is thanks to the increased use of technology and the internet. The freelance economy in the UK estimates to be worth £125 billion a year. In addition, this number is only set to rise as more people turn to freelancing and side hustles to make their livings.

The increasing popularity of the gig economy and the increasing number of people setting up their own businesses both drive this trend. Technology makes it easier than ever before for these businesses to succeed. They are able to access new markets, automate processes, and reduce their overheads.

The Gig Economy and Homepreneurship Are Booming

The gig economy and homepreneurship are both booming, with the number of people working in the gig economy in the UK estimated to be around 4.4 million. What drives this trend are increasing popularity of online platforms such as Uber and Deliveroo, as well as the rising number of people launching their own businesses and freelancing.

The gig economy and homepreneurship offer people the chances to make a living from the comfort of their own homes. Moreover, this trend is only set to continue as more and more people realise the potential of these opportunities.

Technology Making Home Business Easier and More Lucrative

Technology makes running a home business easier and more lucrative than ever before. With the help of technology, businesses can now access a global market, automate processes, and reduce their overheads. This has enabled more and more people to set up their own businesses and make a living from the comfort of their own homes. What’s more, technology has also enabled businesses to become more efficient. They can access new markets and automate processes with the help of automated systems and software.

Conclusion

The evidence is clear: Home businesses are now the new norm. Thanks to advances in technology and automation, self-employment and home-based businesses are both on the rise. More and more people turn to freelancing and side hustles to make livings. Home offices and remote working are also becoming increasingly popular, enabling businesses to reduce their overheads and increase their productivity. With the help of technology, running a home business is now easier and more lucrative than ever before. This makes them attractive options for anyone looking to make a living from his or her own home.

Those who are looking to take advantage of this should take the time to research the various opportunities available and find one that suits their needs and lifestyle. With a bit of hard work and dedication, it is now possible to achieve success with a home business and turn it into a profitable venture.

So why wait? Now is the perfect time to start your own home business and take advantage of the opportunities available.

Reference Sites:

• Home Business Magazine
• Office for National Statistics
• The Freelance Economy in the UK
• Gig Economy in the UK
• BBC News
• Forbes

Authorities on the Subject:

• Linda Bustos
• Mike Michalowicz
• Chris Ducker
• Steve Olenski
• Sujan Patel

The post 11 Facts That Prove Running a Home Business Is Now the New Norm appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/business-opportunities/11-facts-prove-running-home-business-new-norm/

Home Business Magazine Online

Effective customer service management is crucial for any business, and this is especially true for tradesmen. Tradesmen differ from HVAC contractors, plumbers, electricians, and builders. They provide essential services to households and are often called upon to make repairs.

For tradesmen to be successful, they need to provide excellent customer service that leaves a lasting impression on clients. Here are a few strategies to improve customer service and increase sales for tradesmen.

Communicate Effectively with Clients

Communication is crucial for providing excellent customer service and building trust with clients. Clear and timely communication can help to keep clients informed they need to make informed decisions.

This includes promptly returning phone calls and emails. It also includes keeping clients informed throughout the entire process ― from the initial consultation to the final invoice. Tradesmen should take time to listen to clients, answer their questions fully, and provide clients with the information they need.

The use of technology assists in sending out reminders of upcoming appointments. Moreover, it helps provide them with updates on the status of their job. Being available to clients lets them know how committed they are to their satisfaction and that they are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that they are happy with the work.

Build Trust with Clients

Building trust with clients is a basic aspect of providing excellent customer service and driving sales. Trust is the foundation of any business relationship. Clients need to trust that tradesmen will do quality work, finish on time, and charge a fair price.

A tradesman with a reputation for trustworthiness is more likely to get repeat business and referrals. To build trust, tradesmen should always be honest with their clients. This means providing accurate estimates and sticking to them, being upfront about any potential delays, and being responsive to any questions that clients may have.

Transparency helps build trust by showing clients that they have nothing to hide, and they are willing to be held accountable for their work. By going the extra mile, clients are reassured that tradesmen care about clients’ satisfaction. Clients are also reassured that the tradesmen are willing to do whatever it takes to make sure that clients are happy with the work.

Tradesmen should also be willing to fix any mistakes. This means even going back to job sites at no additional cost to the clients. By taking responsibility for their actions, tradesmen show clients that they come first. Tradesmen also show much they care about clients’ satisfaction and are willing to put things right if something goes wrong.

Use Technology to Improve Customer Service

Technology can be a great tool for improving customer service and increasing sales. One solution that can be particularly beneficial for tradesmen is CRM (customer relationship management) software.

The software can help tradesmen keep track of their client’s leads and appointments. It also provides a valuable understanding of customer behavior and preferences. CRM software for HVAC contractors allows HVAC contractors to manage their customer information, scheduling, inventory, invoicing, and more in one place.

CRM software for HVAC contractors can also help automate repetitive tasks, such as sending appointment reminders and keeping track of customer interactions and history. It provides HVAC contractors with a better understanding of their customers’ needs and preferences.

Follow Up with Clients

Following up with clients is an often-overlooked aspect of customer service management. However, it is crucial for tradesmen. By following up with clients after completing jobs, tradesmen ensure the satisfaction of clients. In addition, tradesmen can use this as an opportunity to upsell or cross-sell additional services. Tradesmen follow up with clients through phone calls, emails, or surveys. Following up also helps to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.

The post How Tradesmen Can Drive More Sales through Effective Customer Service Management appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/sales/customer-service/how-tradesmen-drive-sales-effective-customer-service-management/

Home Business Magazine Online

Video conferencing became popular because of an immediate need: The COVID-19 virus had attacked the world so suddenly that people felt like they needed to save their jobs. When the pandemic was over, people were surprised to find that they missed online meetings. What makes secure video conferencing software that comfortable and relevant? The iMind service does.

Advantages of the iMind Service

The best advantage of the iMind service is the ability to record meetings and to be able to use them at a later date. The most annoying thing about online meetings is that they often go down, which means that everything gets lost forever. However, with this software, you can easily save your meeting for future use. It is so easy and convenient! In addition, iMind is:

• high-quality video and audio;
• instant connection and quick loading; and
• the possibility of sharing files.

First of all, the interface is extremely user-friendly. It has a nice design, and it is easy to navigate through different functions. You can start a meeting with just one click on the “Start a Meeting” button. Secondly, the platform has many different features for making your meetings more productive.

For example, you share your screen with other participants using iMind Toolbar. Moreover, it is very convenient that the platform allows you to share files, documents, and folders (even if your participants do not have access to them). You can also share links from other websites or applications during the conference call without any problems.

Plans That Empower Your Business

The iMind platform offers a range of plans that allow users to run their businesses efficiently. Currently, there are four main plans in the iMind platform:

1. The “Free” plan is suitable for individuals and small companies. It allows up to 100 attendees at a time and records the video conference.
2. The “Pro” plan is for small teams. It gives them the power to create, customize, and brand rooms. Moreover, it allows them to invite other people into those joined spaces as well.
3. The “Business” plan allows groups of up to 10 people to create group rooms. Moreover, it customizes the look of their virtual workspaces.
4. The “Enterprise” plan is a larger version of the above plans. It offers greater capacities for businesses with large file storage requirements.

Final Notes on iMind

iMind is an event management platform that allows you to create a private or public room, invite participants, and record all conversations simultaneously. In addition to helping you set up different types of collaboration, the iMind service also offers live streams and custom branding for your meeting format. Try out the free plan yourself and choose this service for your team as well.

The post iMind: The Future of Remote Work appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/home-office/computers-and-software/imind-service-future-remote-work/

Reading Time: 2 mins

Government Support.

With the Cost of Living crisis, saving money seems beyond the limits of most, but the government has a scheme offering eligible people some return on their savings, even if there isn’t much to spare. 

The UK Government’s Help to Save account will give eligible people £1,200 financial help from the UK Government with a special savings account. The government will DOUBLE any savings you put away over the course of four years – so for every £1 you save, the government will add 50p to the account. 

If you live in the UK and claim Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (and are entitled to Working Tax Credit), you should be eligible for the scheme, or if you claim Universal Credit (if you/you and your partner) with take-home pay of more than £658.64. 

You can put up to £50 into your Help to Save account each month, although note that you don’t HAVE to pay money into the account every month; you will then get 50p from the government for every £1 you put in. 

You will also get two tax-free bonuses, after two years and again after four years, which will be higher or lower based on how much you’ve saved. Your bonus after two years will be 50 per cent of the highest balance you’ve saved so far, while your bonus after four years will be 50 per cent of the difference between the highest balance you saved in the first two years and the highest in the last two years. 

You’ll also get any bonuses you’ve earned, even if you’ve had to take money out of the account. The most you can pay into your account each month is £50, or £2400 over four years. So the most you can earn in four years is £1200 in bonus money. Your bonus is paid into your bank account, not your Help to Save account. 

After four years, your Help to Save account will close and you will not be able to reopen it or open another Help to Save account, but you will get to keep any money in your account. You can keep using your Help to Save account even if you stop claiming benefits, providing you met the eligibility criteria at the time you opened the account. 

If you get payments as a couple, you and your partner can apply for your own Help to Save accounts. You need to apply separately. 

You also need to be living in the UK. If you live overseas, you can apply for an account if you’re either a: 

• Crown servant or their spouse or civil partner. 
• Member of the British armed forces or their spouse or civil partner. 

Further Reading.

All the things that you can get government support for. 

25 Financial Changes for 2023

 

 

The post Don’t Miss out on £1,200 In Government Support? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-eligible-for-this-extra-1200-in-government-support

Reading Time: 4 mins

Frankie & Benny’s offer free Valentine’s Day wedding worth £10k! 

Popular Italian American restaurant chain Frankie & Benny’s has been inundated with applications after offering a free wedding this Valentine’s Day. The restaurant say they have had thousands of people wanting to say ‘I do’ this February 14th. 

Many people wanting to be wed may find the cost-of-living crisis has paused or slowed their plans to have a wedding. However, now Frankie & Benny’s are offering the ultimate chance for couples to save serious cash on their impending nuptials. 

Many of the applicants have shared stories of having a first date at Frankie & Benny’s, with many lovebirds wanting to come back to the place their love story began to celebrate their special day. The team at the restaurant chain said they have been astounded at the reaction to the offer that they will play Cupid for a pair of lucky lovers. 

• What’s included?
• How to apply
• What Frankie & Benny’s say
• Terms and conditions

 

What’s included?

With disposable incomes at an all-time low, this could be a life saver for many. Although money might now buy love, it could buy you a free Frankie & Benny’s wedding reception, with food, drink and a photographer included. Plus, there may just be a special secret celebrity guest ready to crash your wedding! 

The spectacular event, affectionately named ‘With Love From Frankie’s’ is worth a tidy £10,000. It includes a tailored ceremony for one lucky couple, who can invite up to twenty friends and family. It is important to note, however, the tailored ceremony will not be legally binding. 

The chosen Frankie & Benny’s restaurant will be decorated for the big day, with the happy couple and their guests being greeted with mouth-watering nibbles and a glass of fizz upon arrival. Plus, the wedding party will be treated to Frankie and Benny favourites. These include anything from popular garlic pizza bread with gooey mozzarella to crowd-pleasing carbonara. There are also extensive vegan offerings! 

The restaurant chain will also work with the couple to create their perfect menu for their wedding day, tailoring it to their wants, needs and preferences. 

On top of all this, a videographer will be present to capture all of the magical moments from the special day. You can remember the moment forever with footage to watch back at your leisure. 

So, whether you have recently tied the knot, are about to get married or have a one-of-a-kind love story, why not apply for a free Frankie & Benny’s wedding? 

How to apply

To enter the prize draw, you must complete the following steps on either Facebook or Instagram before January 29th 2023. 

If you want to apply via social platform Instagram, you must follow @frankienbennys and like the account’s competition posts. Then, direct message @frankienbennys via Instagram and share your love story with the team. Don’t forget to include the reason why you and your partner deserve to win this once in a lifetime opportunity! For a bonus entry, share the Frankie & Benny’s competition post to your Instagram story and tag @frankienbennys. 

If you would prefer to apply via Facebook, you must follow Frankie & Benny’s on Facebook and like their competition posts. Direct message the Facebook account and again, share your love story and the reason you deserve to win with the team. 

The lucky winner will be selected from a pool of all valid entries received via both Facebook and Instagram. They will be notified by the official Frankie & Benny’s account on the social platform the entry was selected from. 

Winners will be drawn and contacted on 30th January 2023. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours, Frankie & Benny’s reserve the right to draw a new winner. So, check your message requests! 

 

What Frankie & Benny’s say

Sasha Storey, Frankie & Benny’s Head of Brand, said:  

“At Frankie & Benny’s we believe nothing should get in the way of love! We understand that with the current cost of living crisis it may be hard for couples and families to prioritise paying for a wedding when disposable income has become so squeezed. We’re thrilled to help take that pressure off and throw an all-out wedding and reception, bringing families and friends together in true Frankies style!” 

 

Terms and conditions

This spectacular event includes the following (but is not limited to): 

• Tailored ceremony for the beautiful couple (Please Note: This event is not a legally binding ceremony) 
• Decorated wedding reception for you & your partner, surrounded by 20 of your nearest and dearest. 
• Bites & drinks reception on arrival 
• Your Frankie’s favourite dishes* 
• And much more* 
• All participants may enter this competition from the 18th of January 2023 – 29th January 2023 
• This event is non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash. 
• We reserve the right to switch the inclusions for this event to an inclusion of equal value. 
• We reserve the right to amend the terms and conditions of this competition & event. 
• Those entering must be 18 or over. 
• All participants must be engaged to be married/ or recently married.  
• A videography and photography will be present during this event for marketing purposes (Content taken on the day can be provided to the winning couple if requested) 
• TRG are the promotors of this competition. 
• Wedding attire, hair & makeup are not included within this competition. 
• This event will take place on one of the following days 10th – 12th February 2023, between 9am -12pm (Changeable at our own discretion) 

*At our own discretion. 

The post Frankie & Benny’s offer free Valentine’s Day wedding appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/frankie-bennys-offer-free-valentines-day-wedding

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Original source: https://searchengineland.com/webinar-think-spiderwebs-not-funnels-for-remarkable-seo-results-392059