When the Covid-19 pandemic struck in 2020, it put many professionals out of work. Others faced cutbacks on hours or began working remotely, which allowed more time for pursuing multiple income streams. These factors led to a major uptick in startup and small business launches, many of which are still thriving as we enter 2022.

With this fact in mind, a panel of 11 Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) experts answered the following question:

“The pandemic saw a major uptick in startup and small business launches. What’s one trend you’re excited about seeing in this sector in 2022, and why?”

Here’s what they think will impact small businesses this year.

1. People-First Attitudes and Values

“The pandemic has helped people reassess what they value the most. People are now opting to spend more time with their family and friends, so they don’t want to choose jobs that offer no work-life balance. The 2022 trend for business owners will be to create stronger workplace values with a people-first attitude. Not doing that might mean losing your best employees.” ~ Thomas Griffin, OptinMonster

2. Avid Online Community Support

“Small businesses are agile and connect with their audiences better than big businesses can. I’m excited to see the formation of avid online communities around small businesses. Such businesses and communities can collaborate better to create more personalized offerings. This phenomenon also makes way for small business-driven social change.” ~ Syed Balkhi, WPBeginner

3. The Balance of Voice Search and SEO

“I’m curious to see how small businesses will balance voice search and traditional SEO. More people are using voice-activated devices than ever before. At the same time, this technology has advanced considerably in recent years. I can’t wait to see how new business owners use these advancements in voice search to grow their brands in 2022.” ~ John Brackett, Smash Balloon LLC

4. Increased Hiring of Freelancers

“One exciting trend that I want to see grow is the increased hiring of freelancers and greater flexibility for workers. We’re seeing power go back to the workforce, which means a better work-life balance for all, as well as a better quality of life.” ~ Blair Williams, MemberPress

5. Skyrocketing Use of Marketing Automation

“In 2022, we’ll continue to see marketing automation skyrocket with startups and small businesses. Automation is a crucial part of a growing business’s success, so it’s important to learn how to use these tools for the best results.” ~ Stephanie Wells, Formidable Forms
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6. Easier Access to Virtual Promotional Tools

“The use of virtual tools to promote products and services will continue to innovate the way consumers shop and conduct business on a daily basis. More free or inexpensive augmented reality selling tools will be available to startups and small businesses that in the past would have required custom development.” ~ Jordan Edelson, Appetizer Mobile LLC

7. Hybrid Online-Offline Business Models

“One trend that looks like it’s going to continue well into the future is the hybrid online-offline business model. In 2020, even retail businesses were forced to sell more online. I think consumers like being able to move freely between online and offline shopping. For example, many customers like to do thorough online research before going to a store, auto dealership or other business.” ~ Kalin Kassabov, ProTexting

8. Cryptocurrency and NFTs Going Mainstream

“I am excited about the mainstreaming of cryptocurrency and NFTs. This revolutionary monetary system is fascinating, and so many people are engaging in the creation of NFTs. At Art Basel in Miami where we are headquartered, AI and NFTs were celebrated, and it really got me excited for the possibilities for small businesses and businesses launched utilizing these technologies and currencies.” ~ Matthew Capala, Alphametic

9. The Democratization of E-Commerce Tech

“One trend in the startup and small business sector that I’m most excited about for 2022 is e-commerce growth. With e-commerce website creation platforms like Shopify becoming ever more robust, it’s never been easier for entrepreneurs to get started on their next big product launch. This democratization of e-commerce tech is helping fuel more product innovation than we’ve ever seen before.” ~ Richard Fong, PageKits.com

10. Remote-First Job Opportunities

“I am excited to see more remote-first businesses and more democratized access to jobs enabled by technology. The remote trend has a chance to shake up the workforce by providing flexibility and access to a diverse but largely untapped pool of candidates.” ~ Daria Gonzalez, Wunderdogs

11. Unique Perspectives on Long-Standing Issues

“I’m worried that many of the new businesses and startups created during the lockdowns will be short-lived as people return to their normal lives. However, I’m excited for the possibility that some of these new startups will be able to provide unique perspectives on long-standing issues, not the least of which being the creation of a new work culture that emphasizes equity and inclusion.” ~ Bryce Welker, Real Estate Schooler




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Source: https://smallbiztrends.com/
Images: Depositphotos

Businesses can and should update their strategies as needed throughout the year. However, the start of a new year is often a natural place to evaluate your need for changes. The past year saw many tech advances and changing customer sentiments that could affect businesses. Members of the online small business community share tips for adjusting below.

Check Out These Web Development Trends for 2022

The online world is constantly shifting with new tech innovations. So businesses need to keep up with these improved capabilities to provide the best possible experience to customers. 

Make Money on Instagram

Instagram is likely to continue to be a powerful business tool in 2022. But the platform has recently introduced new features to help businesses make money directly on the app. 

Add Outsourcing to Your Small Business Strategy

The gig economy has added more opportunities for both remote workers and businesses. Small business owners that want to get more done have a larger pool of candidates to choose from when outsourcing certain functions. 

Get Your Branding Right

Social and tech trends come and go. But a solid brand is always an important element of running a business. However, many companies struggle with branding. 

Move Away from Ad Tracking

Ad tracking involves gathering information about consumers to create more targeted advertising experiences. However, many consumers are not on board with this practice. 

Automate Sales Processes

Automation makes businesses more efficient. And the technology behind these software programs is constantly improving. If you’re still operating your sales processes manually, 2022 may be the perfect time to make a change. 

Make the Most of Employee Advocacy on Social Media

Today’s consumers care about how businesses treat their employees. So if your team actively advocates for your brand on social media, it can make a major impact. 

Keep Employees Engaged

One way to create more active employee advocates is by engaging employees at work. Employee engagement trends have dramatically shifted with the changing workforce. 

Learn About Freelance Writing Agencies

Freelance writing agencies can help both writers and businesses. It’s becoming easier to find qualified writers due to increased remote workers. And some entrepreneurs may even want to start their own agencies. 

Consider Virtual Vs. Physical Events

Many events have switched to virtual over the past two years. But some companies are now starting to go back to in-person models. There are pros and cons to each. So each business must choose the best options for their needs. 





Source: https://smallbiztrends.com/
Image: ​Depositphotos

WiFi marketing works with what’s often called guest Wi-Fi. It’s where a small business offers a free connection in retail locations and other places. Then, they use that connection for marketing campaigns like promotions and messages.

WiFi marketing allows shoppers to gain access to the whole web. Or just your mobile app and online store. Some guest network sites show specific content before they grant WiFi access.

Read on to find out more about WiFi marketing solutions.

What is WiFi Marketing?

This is also free WiFi provided in a store to get contact information to build a customer profile. Customers are prompted to fill out a survey, supply an email address, or give other info.

How does WiFi marketing work?

Wifi marketing is all about making a guest WiFi hotspot an automatic marketing platform. You provide guest wifi to enhance the customer experience. In return you get analytics to build profiles and track visits. The number of visits, purchases and other metrics get included.

11 Ways WiFi Marketing Can Help Your Small Business

his tool can be a revenue-driving marketing machine. Set up a splash page to drive revenue. That’s the way to let prospects in.

Scent marketing can be controlled through WiFi marketing too. Below you’ll find other ways this tool boosts your existing customers.

1. Increases Customer Satisfaction with Free WiFi

Wifi connection guests are more apt to buy when the internet sign on is free. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a splash page. Make it user friendly and include tabs to social media accounts. This is the gate that allows prospects in.

2. Makes Customers More Likely to Spend Money with WiFi Access

Convenience makes a big difference. Customers save on data usage. They’re likely to spend. Make your network faster than the one they pay for. It’s another way to open their wallets.

3. Collects Customer Data and Gains Valuable Insights

WiFi access points get customers engaged. A small business gets powerful marketing data and customer analytics in return. These detailed customer profiles help with marketing.

4. Kick Starts Email Marketing

Having your customers use your guest WiFi a great way to get them to opt in for email marketing. Remember to nurture your customer relationship by providing valuable content and not just product offers.

Another way this tool is miles ahead of the old phone based on hold marketing.

5. Increases Your Online Presence

Offering free WiFi to customers increases your digital footprint too. For example, restaurants can use Instagram to get more social media followers to promote specials.

6 . Increases Customer Loyalty with Free Guest WiFi

Repeat customers is the name of the game. Increase customer loyalty by setting up a loyalty program. Discounts work well.

7. Attracts More Customers to Your Business

With a physical location, you need to consider day to day traffic that comes in . And one of the benefits of offering WiFi is more foot traffic and even more sales.

8. Gets More Online Reviews (and Better Reviews!) from WiFi Users

Better digital word of mouth means less churning customers and good sales. Get guests connected quickly with a good wifi login. Then ask for a review to improve online ratings.

9. Promotes Your Brand with Targeted Ads

Relevant ads promoting your own brand are sent to phones. Online ads can target devices from shared routers. Providing internet access in your store means you can display relevant ads to laptops and tablets too.

10. Improves Customer Engagement

Local businesses need to engage at risk customers. Guest data you put together will tell you what promotional material works. And what they generally buy.

11. Offers Sell and Upsell Promotions

Up selling through your guest WiFi promotions helps to increase your sales. Try personalizing your sales recommendations through the customer information you have. Use targeted email campaigns.

How much does WiFi marketing cost?

Social WiFi is big in places like the restaurant industry. There’s lots of software to choose from. A comparison has free trials. And prices ranging from $25 per month up to over $4,ooo.

How to Get Started with WiFi Marketing

There’s more to getting started with marketing WiFi than throwing together a splash page and some video ads. Here’s the steps involved.

1. Choose a credible ISP.
2. Choose a plan that offers the most bandwidth and speed at an affordable price.
3. Set up your network with a secure password. Don’t forget encryption.
4. Alert your customers with some kind of digital signage

WiFi Marketing Software

Choosing the right WiFi marketing automation platform is next. Look for software that helps with marketing campaigns. Products that can automate surveys are good. Look for features like exportable marketing lists too.

Bloom Intelligence

This is the WiFi marketing platform that offers excellent features like guest dwell time. It’s a good way to find new customers.

Gazella

This tool helps restaurants, coffee shops and bars turn their guest Wi-Fi into analytics they can use. Small businesses can take advantage of webinars and live online training.

Facebook WiFi

Use an existing Facebook WiFi network to get started here. Other social media logins like Instagram shares your biz profile, target ads as you gain customer insights.

Purple

Create a wifi network where the visitor numbers are counted and monitored. That prevents overcrowding and increases customer loyalty.

Spectrio

This guest WiFi solution is used by names like Hewlett-Packard and Subway. Brick-and-mortar locations can track the average number of customers who visit their store daily. Get detailed wifi analytics and mobile coupons.

Beambox

You’ll get automated email marketing campaigns asking guests for a rating after their first visit. This tool automatically increases your followers on social media.

WiFi Garden

This guest WiFi tool doesn’t interrupt browsing with ads. Create banners to keep customers coming in from templates. Or you can create your own.

Tripadvisor WiFi

This guest WiFi is designed for restaurants. Patrons in these brick and mortar businesses go a page and enter their info. A notification asks them to publish a review.

They get free WiFi and your business gets data on their habits.



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Source: https://smallbiztrends.com/
Image: Depositphotos​

It’s one thing to have an idea for a business, but another thing entirely to secure the small business startup funding needed to make that dream a reality. Financial ups and downs are common, with 66% of small businesses reporting financial challenges. Still, each year, 582 million entrepreneurs find a way to secure funding and keep their businesses running. 

Whether you’re a microbusiness, with fewer than nine employees on your team, or a small business with up to 1,500 employees, this guide will help you learn new strategies to secure funding, improve sales, and grow your business. 

8 strategies for funding a small business startup

One of the best ways to armor yourself against financial challenges is to be proactive when it comes to securing funding. Having a number of different funding strategies up your sleeve can protect you against unexpected expenses or hardships.

Here are eight creative strategies for small business startup funding that you can use to maintain a steady income stream from a variety of sources.

1. Offer product pre-sales

If you offer a product, begin your small business funding by offering product pre-sales. This strategy only requires a website and can be a great way to get your small business off the ground.

The goal of product pre-sales is to begin establishing your brand, get people excited for your product, and receive feedback before your business goes live.

2. Look for investors in your community

Your community can be a great source of funding. Consider holding an investors meeting to see if any big names in your community are willing to invest in your company.

For this strategy to work, you have to have a strong business pitch, including who your competitors are, how you plan to market your business, and estimates for how long it will take for your company to turn a profit.

3. Apply for grants

Small businesses are one of the cornerstones of the American Dream. Each year, small businesses provide approximately 67% of all new jobs in the United States. As a result, the federal government allocates a portion of funds each year to help small businesses reach their full potential.
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This small business startup funding is available in the form of grants. You can apply for grants by drafting a strong grant proposal.

Get started by examining the list of available federal grants and determining which ones might be a good fit for your business. Then, work on your grant applications. It may be a good idea to hire an experienced grant proposal writer to help you.

4. Use purchase order financing

Purchase order financing (PO financing) helps businesses pay suppliers in advance for the supplies they need to create their products. This is a short-term funding source for small businesses that need to improve their cash flow until they’re able to sell their first products.

5. Try crowdfunding

More than half of consumers agree that shopping at small businesses gives back to the community, and 74% look for ways to support small businesses in their community.

How does this help your business secure funding? It means that your community most likely wants you to succeed. They simply may not know how to make it happen.

Creating crowdfunding campaigns through sites like Crowdfunder, Fundable, or Kickstarter can offer members in your community a feel-good opportunity to invest in your brand. Once your crowdfunding page is set up, you can advertise it on social media or at community events. 

6. Ask for peer-to-peer lending

Peer-to-peer lending allows small business owners to get loans from individuals rather than banks. This is a good option if you don’t have a lot of credit with your business or a proven track record of success and can’t secure a small business loan through your local credit union.

7. Enter contests

The federal government isn’t the only entity willing to fund small businesses. Numerous large businesses offer contests to help small businesses get off the ground.

Prizes for small business contests generally range from $5,000 to $100,000. Although winning a small business contest isn’t a steady source of income, it can help you overcome a current expense, invest in a business upgrade, or secure the funding you need to launch your business.

8. Host fundraisers

Fundraisers aren’t just for nonprofits and schools. Hosting a fundraiser in the community is a good way to gain recognition for your brand while also securing money for your small business.

Whether you choose season-specific fundraising ideas or a virtual fundraising event, the key to a successful fundraiser is to plan ahead and create a strong advertising platform.

3 tips to continue growing your business

Although it’s always a good idea to leverage multiple strategies for funding a small business startup, your business will ultimately live or die based on your ability to grow and support it.

This is where many businesses struggle. For most small businesses, cash flow is the biggest issue, with 86% reporting that they would need to supplement funding or cut costs if they lost revenue for a mere two months.

1. Invest in your social media marketing strategy

Social media marketing is a great way to grow your small business. Facebook is the most popular social media tool for small businesses, but don’t discount other sites. Instagram can be especially profitable, with 60% of people discovering new products on the platform.

2. Provide customer service worth raving about

Word-of-mouth recommendations and referrals are still a strong way to grow your business. One survey found that 61% of people recommended a local business to someone else, while 73% of customers looked at reviews written in the last month when deciding on making a purchase.

The best way to get people talking about your business is to offer both value and service worth raving about. You’ll also want to know how to ask for referrals to help your business thrive. 

3. Look for creative ways to grow your business without spending money

Even if you don’t have any extra funding to invest in your business, you can still help it thrive. Look for creative ways to grow your business for free, such as:

• Spending more time posting on social media

• Crafting high-quality blog content to improve your website’s search engine results

• Spending time out in your community so that people can get a sense of what your brand represents

• Creating a mutually beneficial barter system with other local businesses

Begin securing your small business startup funding today

The more revenue sources you can find for your small business, the more likely it will thrive.

Get started today by creating a small business startup funding calendar to plan out which fundraising strategies you want to focus on throughout the upcoming year.

Once you’ve established your small business startup funding plan, begin working on your first strategy to help get your business off the ground.



Source:blogs.constantcontact.com