Digital marketing has quickly become pivotal in modern business strategies, particularly among startups seeking to establish themselves in highly competitive environments. Given that an average person sees a staggering 5,000 ads a day, effective digital marketing for startups can mean the difference between success and failure. 

Reaching customers online through various platforms is vital in order to build brand recognition, generate leads, and foster growth. Leveraging digital marketing effectively may even determine their eventual business fate. Utilizing online tools and strategies effectively, businesses can maximize their potential while reaching their desired audience. Applying effective techniques allows startups to expand quickly with limited resources – digital marketing is often seen as a game-changer in all industries. 

This article elaborates on ways to utilize the strength of digital marketing to grow startups with ease in a super competitive landscape.

Tailoring Digital Marketing to Different Industries

Digital marketing can be tailored to fit the specific needs of different industries, helping each one effectively connect with its intended audiences. Startups in retail, healthcare, technology, and hospitality sectors can all take advantage of tailored digital strategies designed specifically to overcome unique challenges or exploit opportunities within these specific niches. In retail in particular, digital strategies help build an online presence to compete against established brands by emphasizing customer retention via eCommerce platforms as well as customer engagement initiatives.

Healthcare marketing strategies that emphasize trust and expertise can attract patients and partners; for technology startups, digital marketing can show innovation while emphasizing solutions. Moreover, in the hospitality industry, for example, PR plays an indispensable role, especially given that customers tend to be skeptical about exploring new opportunities. In this context, leveraging the services of a well-rounded PR hospitality digital marketing agency can make all the difference in reaching potential guests while improving the overall experience.

By customizing digital strategies specifically to an industry need, startups can better connect with target audiences while driving growth.

Utilizing Social Media for Brand Growth

Social media platforms have revolutionized how businesses communicate with their customers. Startups especially find social media an indispensable asset when building brand recognition and direct engagement with target audiences. Setting up business pages on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter (X) provides businesses an instantaneous outlet to communicate values, showcase products and interact with prospective buyers – not to mention immediate feedback channels to address concerns while forging lasting relationships.

Additionally, consistency is key when building an engaging social media presence for startups. Posting regularly and engaging with followers helps startups remain visible to their target market and remain relevant. Generating shareable content such as videos, blogs and infographics increases brand visibility while drawing in new followers. Social media platforms also offer paid advertising options which enable businesses to target specific demographics – ideal for smaller budgets.

Furthermore, social media offers startups valuable data about customer behavior and preferences. Through engagement metrics such as likes, shares and comments analysis, startups can better understand their audience needs and preferences – data which enables marketing strategy refinements designed to reach prospective customers while contributing towards business expansion.

SEO and Content Marketing Solutions Provided

Search engine optimization (SEO) is a crucial element of digital marketing that can have a dramatic effect on startup growth. SEO involves optimizing a website so it ranks higher on search engine results pages so customers can easily locate it online. Startups that prioritize SEO may experience greater online visibility while drawing in organic visitors without resorting solely to paid advertisements.

Content marketing plays an essential role in SEO efforts for startups. By producing valuable and informative articles or blog posts that address audience needs and build credibility with potential investors or clients, startups can establish themselves as experts while meeting customer demands. Blog posts, articles, or videos that provide solutions or insights that address common problems can drive traffic back to a startup’s website and foster engagement; producing more high-quality and relevant material increases the chances of being noticed in search engines’ rankings.

Also, keyword research and implementation are vital in SEO efforts; companies can identify which terms customers search for to incorporate those words or phrases in their content to increase visibility, eventually driving more visitors to their website. Such efforts increase the chances of conversion into customers. Analytics tools help measure SEO efforts over time so companies can refine their approaches for maximum effectiveness over time.

The Bottom Line

Digital marketing provides startups with numerous opportunities to expand and reach new customers. By understanding the specific requirements of their industry, using social media effectively and investing in SEO/content marketing efforts, startups can establish themselves online effectively while competing successfully within their marketplaces. 

Hospitality startups leveraging digital marketing services can find that working with an expert PR and digital marketing agency provides them with an edge to compete. By having a plan in place and understanding its complexities, startups can ensure themselves success on the path toward future expansion.

When applying for a receptionist role, your CV for receptionist is your first chance to make a good impression on potential employers. A well-written CV highlights both your personal and professional qualities, showing how you are the ideal candidate for the job. But what exactly are the key qualities employers look for in a receptionist? Here are some of the main personal and professional attributes that contribute to receptionist success.

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Friendliness and Approachability

One of the most important personal qualities for a receptionist is being genuinely friendly, welcoming and approachable. As the first point of contact for customers or clients entering a business, the receptionist sets the tone. A warm smile and polite greeting makes people feel valued and comfortable right away. Even when dealing with frustrated or impatient customers, great receptionists remain pleasant and professional. This trait shows you have strong interpersonal skills and the right service-focused attitude.

Reliability and Responsibility

Employers need receptionists who are reliable, organised and responsible. This means being punctual and prepared for every shift, following procedures consistently and taking ownership of your role. Responsibilities like answering phones, managing schedules, distributing mail and coordinating with other staff require meticulous attention to detail. Showing you can juggle these administrative tasks efficiently demonstrates your professionalism and work ethic.

Discretion and Confidentiality

Receptionists frequently handle sensitive information and interactions with customers or clients. Maintaining confidentiality and discretion is crucial. Any breaches could damage the business’s reputation and trust. Highlight your integrity, maturity and ability to remain professional even when privy to private details. This will assure employers you understand the importance of discretion.

Communication Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for receptionists. Greeting visitors, answering phone enquiries, liaising with colleagues and drafting correspondence all require being articulate, courteous and professional. Active listening helps you determine people’s needs. Clear written communication ensures important messages are conveyed accurately. And speaking politely keeps conversations productive. Showcasing these abilities proves you can represent the company positively.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving

The receptionist role requires adaptability as you juggle diverse tasks, interact with many different people and respond to changing daily demands. When problems arise, great receptionists think critically to find solutions rather than just passing issues along. Give examples of how you’ve managed unexpected situations, reacted quickly and shown resilience under pressure. This displays your resourcefulness and composure.

Technical Proficiency

Most receptionist roles require competency with office equipment, computers, phones, photocopiers, printers and other technology. Experience using scheduling and database software is also valuable. Highlight your ability to adeptly use relevant technical tools and programs. This shows you can smoothly handle the administrative and organisational aspects of the job.

Multitasking and Organisation

Juggling a high volume of tasks simultaneously is central to succeeding as a receptionist. You may need to answer calls while checking in visitors, confirm appointments while sorting mail and respond to emails while coordinating with colleagues. Detail how you prioritise and organise your work to efficiently multitask. Give examples of how you ensure nothing falls through cracks even during busy or hectic periods. This proves you can handle the daily demands of this fast-paced role.  

Teamwork and Collaboration

While much of the receptionist role involves independent administrative work, you still need strong teamwork skills. This means collaborating and communicating with colleagues from across the organisation. Give examples of how you build rapport with team members, work cooperatively to solve problems and support others to enhance productivity. This shows you can help maintain a positive, professional work environment.

Enthusiasm and Dedication

Finally, hiring managers look for genuine enthusiasm for the receptionist profession. Convey your passion for welcoming guests, ensuring smooth office operations, supporting staff needs and representing the business professionally. Share what excites you about this opportunity and the company’s mission. This enthusiasm and dedication will make you a valued contributor who helps the organisation thrive.

Additional Skills

Here are some additional skills that can help enhance a receptionist’s effectiveness in the workplace:

• Foreign language skills – Being able to communicate in multiple languages allows a receptionist to assist a diverse range of clients and visitors. Even basic fluency in common languages like Spanish or Mandarin can be a major asset.
• Typing/keyboarding skills – Quick and accurate typing helps a receptionist efficiently handle data entry and other computer-based tasks. Familiarity with shorthand typing can also help take accurate phone messages.
• Event planning/coordination – Skills in event planning enable a receptionist to successfully coordinate meetings, conferences, office functions and visitor appointments. 

Developing expertise in these additional areas makes a receptionist even more capable and valuable in supporting their organisation’s success. Companies benefit from receptionists with versatile skill sets.

Highlighting both your winning personal qualities and technical capabilities will make your receptionist CV stand out. Use concrete examples to demonstrate how you possess the above traits and would excel in this vital role. With a compelling CV and genuine enthusiasm, you can land the perfect receptionist job for you!

In the digital age, many people assume that letter writing is an antiquated form of communication with little relevance anymore. Emails, texts, instant messaging, and video calls seem to have made traditional letters obsolete.

However, the art of letter writing using a formal letter format still retains significant importance in the business world today. Here’s why.

The Personal Touch Leads to Stronger Relationships

Well-crafted business letters can help build and maintain critical relationships in a way that digital communication often cannot. Taking the time to put thoughts into a letter shows care for the recipient and the relationship. Letters are tangible and permanent, underscoring the significance of the message. The personal touch of a handwritten or typed letter signifies that extra effort was made to connect. This helps strengthen bonds between colleagues, partners, clients, and suppliers.

Letters Allow Thoughtful, Targeted Communication

Unlike brief emails or texts, letters provide ample space to communicate detailed, thoughtful content. Senders can carefully shape ideas, align structure and language to the recipient, and integrate supporting data or materials. The focused, tailored communication possible in a letter often makes these messages more meaningful. Letters allow senders to thoughtfully convey ideas, proposals, apologies, congratulations, and more in a sincere and resonant way.

Professional Image from Proper Letter Format

Following the standard business letter format reflects positively on the sender. Using the appropriate structure, style and conventions shows an attention to detail and professionalism. Use a formal style for the majority of your business communications, as this looks more professional.

Formal formats apply to both print and email letters. When crafting substantial messages to clients, partners, suppliers and others, using proper business letter formatting lends an air of credibility. This can support positive perceptions of an individual or brand.

Memorable and Meaningful Messages

Unlike fleeting verbal conversations, letters present ideas and sentiments in a documented, lasting form. Important messages conveyed through letters remain tangible. The recipient can revisit the communication and reflect on its meaning well after initial receipt. Key proposals, welcome letters, expressions of gratitude, and other letters can carry significance due to their form. Individuals are more likely to recall and keep letters than emails. Thoughtfully crafted letters thereby create memorable, enduring exchanges.

Demonstrates Respect for the Recipient

Taking the time to write a letter demonstrates respect for the recipient. Carefully considered writing shows that the sender valued the individual or company enough to invest substantial attention in crafting the message. The structured format also exhibits respect for the reader’s time, organisationally moving through letter sections in a logical progression. Thoughtful tone and style also signal respect. Overall, well-composed letters affirm the worth of the recipient. This helps build positive business relationships.

Letters Can Enhance Credibility

It is important for building credibility when it comes to networking with business clients and colleagues. Putting key information or persuasive messaging in a letter can boost credibility if you want to expand your professional network or gain new clients. The structured letter format inherently lends legitimacy. The permanence of letters also helps underscore the important or serious nature of the content. Signed letters are official records representing the sender and organisation. Certain letters, like legal correspondence or official notices, gain authority through their form. The credibility carried by letters can make them powerful communications.

A Versatile Communication Tool

From goodwill messages to formal legal correspondence, letters serve many purposes. They enable substantial communications about deals, partnerships, legal matters, promotions, new hires, and much more. Letters can be used to update key stakeholders, respond to enquiries, or convey important decisions. This versatility makes business letters relevant for countless scenarios. The wide utility of letters underscores their enduring value.

How to Improve Your Letter Writing Skills

Here are some tips to improve your letter writing skills for business communication:

• Study standard business letter formats. Follow conventions for structure, style, tone and formatting. Mimic excellent example letters.
• Ensure clarity of purpose. Every letter should have a clear purpose and message. Know what you want to achieve with each letter.
• Focus on the audience. Consider their needs, interests and level of knowledge. Use language and structure suited to them.
• Be concise yet comprehensive. Include all relevant details but without excessive wordiness.
• Adopt a professional, respectful tone. Be formal yet friendly. Avoid overly casual language or stuffiness.
• Proofread extensively. Refine writing and fix errors. Double check for mistakes before sending.

With practice and application of these tips, your business letter writing abilities will continue to improve. Mastering this foundational communication skill is vital for any profession.

An Enduring Communication Medium

Despite the prominence of digital communication, traditional letters still have a place in the business world. Letters enable sincere, thoughtful messaging that deepens relationships. They convey respect and professionalism in their format. And they provide a versatile, credible communication medium with a consistent structure. Above all, letters create meaningful exchanges that recipients treasure long after receipt. For these reasons, the enduring art of letter writing retains importance for modern business.

There’s a world lurking beneath the surface of online gambling—a world filled with tantalizing chances and whispered promises of fortune.

In the shadows of the internet, two names echo in the ears of seasoned players: Slot Gacor and Toto Togel. These games, wrapped in mystery, are gateways to unimaginable wins. But what truly lies behind the allure of these games? What makes them so captivating, so… elusive?

Step carefully as we pull back the curtain on Slot Gacor and Toto Togel, revealing their secrets, and perhaps, showing you the path to fortune.

Slot Gacor: The Enigma of “Easy Wins”

The Legend of Slot Gacor

In the dimly lit corners of the online gambling world, the term Slot Gacor has taken on a life of its own. Some say it’s a myth, while others swear by its existence. The name “gacor” whispers of victory, meaning “easy to win” in the tongues of those in the know. But what makes a Slot Gacor machine stand out from the rest?

Many believe these machines are blessed by the random number gods, programmed to give out more frequent wins than their standard counterparts. They say that if you find a Slot Gacor, you’ve found a machine that’s “hot”—on a streak that could make even the unluckiest player feel like fate is on their side.

The Hidden Mechanics of Slot Gacor

The truth behind Slot Gacor is cloaked in algorithms and coded mysteries. Every slot machine operates with an RNG—Random Number Generator—and the slots deemed “gacor” are said to have an edge, an unseen hand nudging the odds in your favor. But these machines are rare, like finding a golden needle in a haystack of ordinary slots.

Some players say that the trick to finding Slot Gacor lies in timing. Certain hours of the day, or even certain days of the week, are when these machines come alive, spitting out rewards with almost supernatural accuracy. Is it coincidence, or is there a hidden rhythm to the way they operate? Only the most patient and observant players seem to uncover this pattern.

How to Spot a Slot Gacor

There are whispers among the experienced that there are telltale signs of a Slot Gacor. Keep your eyes open for:

1. Frequent Payouts: If you’re noticing that a slot machine is paying out often, it could be a sign that you’ve found a gacor machine.
2. Player Traffic: Watch where others play. Machines with higher traffic could be slots that are currently “in the zone.”
3. Bonus Round Frequency: Slot Gacor machines are rumored to trigger bonus rounds more frequently, giving players even more chances to win big.

But remember, not all treasures reveal themselves easily. Slot Gacor machines may be out there, but finding one is a game of patience and perseverance.

Toto Togel: The Numbers That Speak

The Mysterious Origins of Toto Togel

In the ancient art of numerology, people have long believed that numbers hold hidden powers. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that Toto Togel has become the chosen game for those who believe that numbers can predict fate. Toto Togel—a lottery game born from the cryptic combination of digits—is said to be as much about intuition as it is about chance.

For centuries, people have attempted to decode the future through numbers. The origins of Togel stretch back to ancient times when diviners would cast lots and interpret the results as signs from the gods. Today, players tap into that ancient energy, hoping that their chosen digits will unlock the doors to fortune.

The Ritual of Playing Toto Togel

Unlike other forms of gambling, Toto Togel feels like a ritual. Players must carefully select their numbers—2D, 3D, or 4D combinations—believing that certain digits are charged with luck or carry meaning beyond the visible world. Every draw becomes a moment of tension, where the universe might just align with the numbers on your ticket.

But there’s more to Toto Togel than meets the eye. Experienced players say that it’s not just about picking numbers randomly. Patterns, lucky dates, and even dreams are consulted before placing bets. Some even claim to receive visions or signs, urging them to pick specific numbers for reasons they can’t fully explain.

The Hidden Strategies of Toto Togel

While chance rules the world of gambling, there are those who believe that Toto Togel can be cracked through patterns. They study previous results, searching for recurring numbers and hidden connections. To the untrained eye, these numbers may seem random, but to those who know what to look for, they speak of cycles and rhythms waiting to be unlocked.

1. The Rule of Recurrence: Players often study past draws to spot numbers that seem to appear more often than others.
2. Dream Interpretations: Some cultures believe that dreams offer clues about the future. Many players rely on dream analysis, interpreting symbols and events to guide their number selection.
3. Numerology and Personal Meaning: Players often select numbers based on birth dates, anniversaries, or numerological beliefs, trusting that these digits hold the key to their fortune.

Why Toto Togel is Different

The allure of Toto Togel isn’t just the size of the prize—it’s the sense of control players feel. Unlike other gambling games where chance alone dictates the outcome, Toto Togel allows players to feel like they’re part of the process, selecting numbers that resonate with them on a deeper level. It’s a blend of logic, intuition, and mystery that keeps people coming back for more.

Slot Gacor and Toto Togel: The Mysterious Intersection

Though Slot Gacor and Toto Togel seem like different beasts entirely, they share an undercurrent of mystery that draws players in. Both offer more than just the chance of a financial reward; they offer the allure of hidden knowledge and the possibility that, with the right timing or the right numbers, you might just crack the code of fate.

These games tap into a primal desire to predict the unpredictable, to uncover secrets buried within numbers and machines. Whether you’re spinning the reels on a Slot Gacor machine or carefully selecting your digits in Toto Togel, there’s always the sense that you’re on the verge of unlocking something bigger than the game itself.

For the initiated, both Slot Gacor and Toto Togel represent more than just a game—they are portals to hidden worlds where luck, destiny, and mystery intertwine. And for those willing to explore these hidden paths, the rewards may just be more than they ever imagined.

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games, both in physical casinos and online platforms. The appeal of blackjack lies in its blend of skill and chance, offering players a real opportunity to influence the outcome of each hand.

To become a successful blackjack player, understanding the odds is crucial. This knowledge can significantly improve your strategy and increase your chances of winning. In this guide, we’ll explore how to read the odds and use this information to enhance your online blackjack strategy.

Understanding the Basics of Blackjack Odds

What Are Blackjack Odds?

In blackjack, odds refer to the probability of certain outcomes occurring during the game. These probabilities are influenced by the rules of the game, the cards in play, and the decisions made by both the player and the dealer. Understanding these odds is essential because it helps you make more informed decisions, such as whether to hit, stand, double down, or split.

The Role of the House Edge

The house edge is a term used to describe the mathematical advantage that the casino has over players in the long run. In blackjack, the house edge typically ranges between 0.5% and 2%, depending on the rules of the game and the player’s strategy. By understanding and reading the odds, you can minimize the house edge and increase your chances of winning.

Reading the Odds in Online Blackjack

The Importance of Knowing the Odds

Knowing the odds in blackjack, especially when playing on the best blackjack websites, helps you determine the likelihood of winning a hand based on the cards you and the dealer hold. For example, if you have a hand value of 16 and the dealer shows a 10, the odds of winning that hand are low. However, if the dealer shows a 4 or 5, your chances improve because the dealer is more likely to bust.

Basic Blackjack Odds

Here are some basic odds that every blackjack player should know:

• Odds of Busting: The probability of busting when hitting varies depending on your hand. For instance, if you have a hand value of 12, the odds of busting are around 31%. But if you have a hand value of 16, the odds of busting increase to approximately 62%.
• Dealer’s Bust Odds: The dealer’s chance of busting depends on their upcard. If the dealer shows a 2 or 3, their odds of busting are around 37-40%. However, if the dealer shows a 4, 5, or 6, their bust odds increase to over 40%, making it more advantageous for you to stand on a lower hand total.

Using Odds to Decide When to Hit or Stand

Understanding the odds can guide your decision-making process. For example:

• Hit: If your hand totals 12 and the dealer shows a 2 or 3, hitting may be advisable because the dealer has a strong chance of getting a good hand. However, hitting with a hand value of 16 when the dealer shows a 7 or higher is risky due to the high bust probability.
• Stand: Standing is often the best option when the dealer shows a 4, 5, or 6, as the odds of the dealer busting are high. In this case, letting the dealer take the risk is a safer strategy.

Enhancing Your Strategy with Odds Knowledge

The Importance of Strategy Charts

Strategy charts are tools that help players determine the best action to take based on the hand they are dealt and the dealer’s upcard. These charts are based on the probabilities and odds of different outcomes, and following them can significantly reduce the house edge. While they don’t guarantee a win, strategy charts can help you make statistically sound decisions throughout the game.

Adjusting Your Strategy Based on the Odds

As you become more familiar with blackjack odds, you can start adjusting your strategy to suit different situations:

• Doubling Down: This is a powerful move when the odds are in your favor. For example, doubling down on a hand value of 11 when the dealer shows a lower card is often a good move because the odds of getting a 10 and making 21 are high.
• Splitting Pairs: Splitting can be advantageous depending on the cards. For example, splitting aces or eights is generally a good idea, as the odds of improving your hand are high. However, avoid splitting tens, as a hand value of 20 is strong enough to win most hands.

Counting Cards: A More Advanced Strategy

Card counting is a more advanced technique that involves keeping track of the cards that have been dealt to determine the odds of future hands. While card counting is more difficult in online blackjack due to the use of multiple decks and shuffling after each hand, understanding the concept can still be beneficial. It helps you become more aware of the likelihood of certain cards being dealt, allowing you to adjust your bets and strategy accordingly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the Odds

One of the players’ biggest mistakes is ignoring the odds and relying solely on gut feelings or superstition. While blackjack is a game of chance, it’s also a game of strategy, and understanding the odd is a critical part of that strategy. Failing to consider the odds can lead to poor decisions and increased losses.

Overestimating Winning Streaks

Another common mistake is overestimating the likelihood of winning streaks. Just because you’ve won a few hands in a row doesn’t mean the odds are in your favor. Each hand in blackjack is independent, and previous results do not influence the outcome. Always base your decisions on the current odds and not on past performance.

Conclusion

Improving your online blackjack strategy involves more than just luck; it requires a solid understanding of the odds and how to use them to your advantage. By learning to read the odds, you can make more informed decisions, reduce the house edge, and increase your chances of success. Whether you’re deciding when to hit, stand, double down, or split, having a grasp of the probabilities involved will enhance your game and help you achieve better results. With practice and a strategic approach, you can turn the odds in your favor and enjoy more winning sessions at the online blackjack table.

In today’s competitive landscape, effective business development hinges on your entire team representing your brand with conviction and clarity.

Simple right?

Well… not really. The challenge is, many leaders aren’t confident business developers themselves, so empowering their teams to ‘do BD’ is often goes in the ‘too hard’ basket.

Here’s a few quick tips for leaders to get more comfortable with business development and, in turn, create a culture of business development that empowers everyone in the business to hunt down new opportunities and bring them through the door.

So, what is a culture of business development and how do you create one?

I’ll let you into a little secret…it’s not a one-page cheat sheet with the core messages you want your team to parrot out to whoever will listen.

Creating a culture of business development begins with your team possessing a deep understanding of your organisation’s identity – its vision, purpose and core values – and genuinely buying into it.

Everyone should be clear on your long-term growth objectives and the type of clients and projects you are targeting. And everyone should be equipped with the skills to identify opportunities and convert prospects into clients – regardless of how tenuous those opportunities may appear.

With all these components in place you have the basis for a thriving and exciting business development culture.

The dreaded Elevator Pitch

Even as a leader, initiating conversations aimed at generating positive outcomes can be daunting.

How comfortable are you at succinctly introducing yourself and your business? Are you confident your team could do the same?

If the thought of this makes you squirm, it’s time to take action!

Opportunities to connect can arise unexpectedly – whether in a social setting or casual encounter, your ability to articulate your role and introduce your company succinctly is essential. The most coined phrase for this interaction is an elevator pitch – and no, you don’t have to be in an elevator to do it!

So, what are the components of a good intro elevator pitch?

1. Be succinct: you have 30 seconds max to give a quick overview of who you are (in a professional capacity – we’re not interested in star signs at this point!), your role, your company and the challenges you solve or value you create. Don’t get too specific at this stage, we’re looking for a brief overview, nothing more.
2. Body Language Matters: Maintain open and confident body language. Make eye contact and adopt a posture that invites trust and engagement – no arms crossed!
3. Authenticity is Key: Be genuine. People prefer to engage with those who come across as relatable rather than overly scripted.
4. Cultivate Curiosity: Conclude your introduction with an open-ended question to encourage dialogue. Listening attentively allows you to tailor your responses effectively.
5. Aim for an Outcome: Every interaction should lead to a tangible result, whether it’s exchanging contact details, scheduling a meeting, or identifying a potential project, try and come away with something useful.

First impressions matter

In a world where first impressions count, the art of confidently introducing yourself and engaging others in genuine dialogue is imperative.

When you have the opportunity to initiate contact, a warm greeting can pave the way for a quicker outcome because you can tailor your intro (elevator pitch) to your audience, leading with elements about your role or organisation which are more relevant.

A warm intro can literally be as simple as, “Hi, I’m XYZ, what’s your name?”, then be curious and ask some open questions to continue the conversation. If you’re at a networking event I can guarantee that you’re not the only person in the room feeling daunted, so be bold, break the ice and say hi, you’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

You don’t need to have all the answers

So, you’re in full flow having a great chat with a new or existing contact and they ask you a question about something you don’t know the answer to, don’t panic!

Don’t try and fudge the answer if you don’t know it. It’s much better to respond with something like, “I’m not 100% on that but I would love to introduce you to XYZ person in the office who could provide that insight for you”, or simply “I don’t know the answer to that off of the top of my head but I’ll find out and either drop you an email or we can meet up and I can go through it with you”. Either of these responses can still generate a positive outcome.

Don’t let your guard down, loose lips sink ships

You might be having a lovely chat with someone and be well on your way to generating a positive outcome but don’t get complacent. Sometimes there are confidential things you should never share outside of your organisation, so you  need to be conscious of what you’re divulging.

For example, if you’re working on a top secret project that’s under NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement), it is imperative that you keep that under wraps, no matter how much someone may probe you for intel or how much you’d love to share your excitement about it. One slip and you could ruin your client relationship, damage your company reputation or even face legal ramifications.

Another example might be around some company news which hasn’t yet been announced externally, for example, promotions/expansion/lay-offs, by sharing this information in an unplanned way can be detrimental both internally and externally.

But how do you know what you can/can’t say? Again, this is down to the leadership team to clarify. If you’re not sure, ask your boss before discussing outside of your organisation.

Diversion tactics

But what do you do if you’re being relentlessly quizzed by someone on something you know you can’t disclose?

Well, there are some simple rebuffs. For example, you could simply say, “I’m not at liberty to discuss that”, or, “I’m really not sure, but I can put you in touch with XYZ leader who may be able to provide some insight on this for you” thereby passing the tricky question to your leadership team who should be well-versed in dealing with diverting away from sensitive information.

No matter what, if you know you can’t share something, don’t share it. It is not worth yours or your company’s reputation.

Final Thoughts

Fundamentally, your team is already representing your business with every interaction they have with contacts and clients. Business development happens everywhere, and everyone is playing their part. As a leader, it’s your responsibility to ensure you support and guide them in this vital endeavour.

When you create a company where purpose is clear, culture and values are lived, and your people understand their roles, you position yourself for success.

By empowering your team with the knowledge of what they can and cannot share outside your organisation, you lay the groundwork for proactive business development.

In this environment, every team member becomes an ambassador for your brand, driving growth and forging meaningful connections. Embrace this potential, invest in your people, and watch as they turn everyday interactions into powerful opportunities for engagement and success. The future of your business depends not just on strategies and goals, but on the collective efforts of a motivated and informed team empowered to support your organisation to thrive.

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If you’ve been paying any attention to the news in recent years you will know that Britain has a productivity ‘problem’.

August publications such as the Financial Times, and The Economist will tell you Britain’s ‘poor productivity’ is ‘holding us back’ as a country on the world stage.

Institutions from the London School of Economics, Economics Observatory and the National Institute of Economic and Social Research put it down to a ‘lack of investment’.

And if you look at the latest Office for National Statistics figures you can see it in black and white.

For every hour we work in the UK we make £46.92, while in the US they make £58.88, Germany makes £55.83 and France makes £55.50. If only we could work harder and more efficiently they bemoan.

But what if we look at those same statistics as a customer. Suddenly the UK looks the best value. All things being equal customers can buy an hour of work in the UK for the less than in some of our G7 neighbours.

When customers are global suddenly that ‘poor productivity’ is not a disadvantage its an advantage. The UK looks cheap.

Now some might argue that I am simplifying too much; economists also use a second measure of productivity and that is Gross Value Added (GVA). Simply put, it’s the difference between a raw product and the output after a worker has turned it into something.

This measure works really well in manufacturing. You just take the end price of a car, minus the cost of the raw materials in making that car and then divide the remainder by the hours worked. If the factory becomes more productive and they produce cars in less time then productivity is up.

But here’s the problem with using that measure in the UK. Our economy is 81 per cent services! Our service sector is an unusually high proportion of our economy. In France it is 70% and in Germany 62%.

Now the thing about services is the human hours generally is the product. And the price people can charge for those hours flexes according to the market.

If the raw materials of a car goes up, the overall price of all cars will go up so companies can make a profit.

But in the service sector, companies can cut back much further if the economy is doing badly because the hours are the only thing they are really selling.

So you can see what I am talking about let’s look at an example.

I run a professional services firm. One of the things my firm provides for its clients is PR services. Broken down in very simple terms we might say to a client that we can generate four high quality pieces of coverage for £X per month. And for simplicity I calculate that it is going to take my team 50 hours of work per month to achieve that.

Now this client is a global client and also needs to achieve the same in the US. Their agency takes the same amount of time and achieves the same result but charges twice as much.

According to the economist which company is more productive? That’s right, if you’ve been following you will know that the US agency has charged twice as much for its time even though the output for the end consumer was the same.

I’m no economist but I do understand value and I know that all things being equal something half as much is better value.

But it’s not just me spotting it, our customers do to. Despite my company being an agency of just 15 people, around a third of our customers are headquartered abroad. We don’t market ourselves outside the UK – they just know they get better bang for buck.

That’s also why after seven years in the UK we are looking to expand into North America. We already have interest in us setting up an office in Toronto.

I will be taking an exploratory trip out next month. And guess what, I’ll be taking two of my ‘unproductive’ British workers with me.

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The price of oil has surged this week, marking its largest weekly gain in over a year as investors react to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose 0.8% on Friday to reach $78.24, capping a 9% weekly increase and approaching the $80 mark last seen in August. West Texas Intermediate (WTI), another key benchmark, climbed 0.75% to $74.26.

The sharp rise in oil prices follows heightened conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which is inching closer to full-scale war. Iran’s military has fired nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, the most significant direct attack to date, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. In response, the United States and Israel have warned Iran of “severe consequences,” and discussions are reportedly underway about potential retaliatory strikes on Iranian oil facilities.

Oil prices had been trending lower earlier in the month due to concerns over weak global demand and a potential increase in supply. However, the latest developments in the Middle East have reignited market fears over supply disruptions, driving prices higher.

Shares of major oil companies have benefitted from the rally. Shell’s stock increased by 0.5% to £25.77½, while BP rose by 1.9% to 416¾p, with both companies seeing gains of over 5% throughout the week.

Before the escalation, oil had been trading near a two-week low, driven by expectations of weak demand, particularly from China, and a decision by Opec to gradually bring back production. The cartel has agreed to increase daily output by 180,000 barrels starting in December, after delaying production cuts by two months.

Market analysts have revised their forecasts for Brent crude, projecting it to average $81.52 per barrel this year, down from earlier expectations of $82.86. Both Opec and the International Energy Agency (IEA) have also downgraded their outlooks for global oil demand. Opec now expects demand to grow by 2.03 million barrels per day this year, slightly down from previous estimates, while the IEA has revised its forecast to 900,000 barrels per day, reflecting weaker demand growth.

The surge in oil prices has triggered inflation concerns, pushing the yield on 10-year UK government bonds to 4.07%, its highest level since July. Gold, a traditional safe haven during times of instability, has also seen a price increase, rising by $2.86 to $2,657.86 per troy ounce.

Meanwhile, the rise in oil prices has negatively impacted the airline industry. Shares of London-listed airlines such as Wizz Air and easyJet fell sharply, with Wizz Air dropping 3.7% to £12.74 and easyJet falling by 2.6% to 493p.

The ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East continues to drive volatility in oil markets, with investors closely watching for further developments that could impact global supply and demand.

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David Sullivan, chairman of West Ham United and one of Britain’s wealthiest individuals, has criticised the Government’s tightening of non-dom tax rules, blaming the changes for driving the super-rich out of the country.

Sullivan, who is the football club’s largest shareholder, has cut the asking price of his 21,000 sq ft London mansion by £10m to £65m, citing high interest rates and upcoming tax reforms as major factors.

The property, located in Marylebone, has been on the market since late 2023. Sullivan told Bloomberg: “What the Government is doing to the non-doms isn’t very nice, and a lot of rich people are leaving the country as a result of what they anticipate in the Budget. Three or four of my friends have already gone to Monaco or Dubai.”

At 75 years old, Sullivan now faces selling the mansion, which boasts luxurious features like a 12.7 metre swimming pool, hot tub, gym, and a sky lounge, at a loss. The businessman, worth an estimated £1.1bn, spent around £75m buying and renovating the property, which has served as the backdrop for films like The King’s Speech and Amy Winehouse’s Rehab music video.

The issue centres around non-doms—UK residents who hold tax domiciles elsewhere—who currently benefit from not paying local taxes on overseas earnings for up to 15 years. The government, however, under plans announced by former chancellor Jeremy Hunt, is set to phase out non-dom status by April 2025. The reforms would limit new arrivals to a four-year grace period before full taxation on global earnings kicks in, while existing non-doms would have a two-year transition period. The crackdown has raised concerns of a significant exodus of the wealthy from the UK.

Sullivan’s frustrations reflect a wider sentiment among the UK’s super-rich, who are worried about potential capital gains and inheritance tax hikes in the upcoming Budget. Christian Angermayer, a cryptocurrency billionaire, recently relocated to Switzerland, labelling the Government’s non-dom tax crackdown as a “huge mistake”. Charlie Mullins, Britain’s richest plumber, has also listed his £12m London penthouse for sale as he prepares to flee the country.

Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, is reportedly considering diluting the proposed non-dom reforms amid fears that the measures may not generate the expected £2.7bn by 2028. Treasury officials are concerned that the tax changes could backfire, triggering a mass departure of wealthy individuals from the UK.

Sullivan, who built his fortune in the 1970s through the adult entertainment industry before expanding into property, football, and media, co-owns West Ham United and is joint chairman of the club. His decision to reduce the price of his mansion reflects wider struggles in London’s super-prime property market. According to Knight Frank, only 10 properties priced above £30m changed hands in the year to July, compared to 38 in the previous year.

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US dockworkers have agreed to end a three-day strike that brought shipping to a standstill along the east and Gulf coasts, after reaching a tentative six-year pay deal with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX).

The strike, which began on October 1, halted container traffic at 36 ports from Maine to Texas, affecting major hubs like New York, Baltimore, and Houston.

Members of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) union, representing 45,000 workers, walked out for the first time since 1977. The economic cost of the strike was estimated at up to $5 billion per day by JP Morgan analysts. Workers returned to their posts after the USMX agreed to a wage increase of 62% over six years. The deal represents a significant improvement over the employers’ earlier offer of a 50% rise.

Despite this resolution, the dockworkers have only suspended their strike until January. The union has said it will return to the bargaining table to negotiate on other issues, particularly automation, which the ILA fears will lead to widespread job losses.

President Joe Biden welcomed the agreement, emphasizing the importance of the dockworkers to the nation’s economy. “Today’s tentative agreement on a record wage and an extension of the collective bargaining process represents critical progress towards a strong contract,” Biden said. Vice-President Kamala Harris also praised the deal, reiterating the power of collective bargaining and the importance of fair wages for essential workers.

The strike began amid frustrations over automation projects at certain ports, which the ILA claims threaten employment. ILA President Harold Daggett, a vocal critic of these automation initiatives, warned the shipping lines that workers were indispensable. “We’re going to show these greedy bastards you can’t survive without us,” he said at the start of the walkout.

The strike exacerbated supply shortages, particularly in southern states struggling to recover from Hurricane Helene. Shipping lines and port operators were under pressure to resolve the dispute to ensure critical supplies reached affected areas. By midday on the third day, shipping companies agreed to the improved wage offer, paving the way for the tentative agreement.

The ILA’s success in securing a significant pay rise has drawn attention, as many dockworkers already earn six-figure salaries. Over half of the workers at the New York-New Jersey port reportedly earn more than $150,000 annually, with some earning more than $250,000. ILA President Daggett himself earned more than $900,000 last year and is known for his luxurious lifestyle, including owning a Bentley and a 76-foot yacht.

While the pay deal has averted an immediate crisis, negotiations over the future of automation at the ports are expected to be contentious as the union seeks to protect jobs amid evolving industry practices.

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