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16 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in E-learning, News Permalink

Unlock Lifetime Access to a Library of 1,000+ E-learning Courses for Just $19.97

Sticky Post By On December 16, 2023


Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

For those still on the hunt to buy holiday gifts, why not consider the more universal and appealing options out there? For example, a broad-spanning e-learning subscription could apply to virtually anybody because education is universally valuable. And if it encompasses a diverse enough curriculum, then you could assume they’d find something of interest and value there. For example, you could get lifetime access to StackSkills Unlimited, which is on sale for just $19.97 (reg. $600) through Christmas Day.

This exclusive price makes a wide-ranging subscription available for a low rate. Whoever you gift this to will get instant access to StackSkills’ library of over 1,000 e-learning courses. Taught by hundreds of the internet’s top-rated instructors, these courses cover topics in IT, graphic design, development, business, finance, marketing, and a ton of adjacent and unique topics for professional and personal growth. The user will get access to the new courses StackSkills adds to its platform every month, as well as top-of-the-line customer support, course certifications, quarterly instructor webinars with Q&A sections, and more.

StackSkills isn’t just any e-learning network. It’s been raved about on a variety of the top platforms and publications online. It has an average rating of 4.9/5 stars on Trustpilot. Endgadget published that the “StackSkills Unlimited plan offers lifetime access to over 1,000 courses that will help you get promoted, change careers or start a side hustle.”

This is that rare blend of a gift that’s unique and affordable. It’s also available for instant download without having to wait anxiously for shipping.

Act fast while lifetime access to StackSkills Unlimited is on sale for just $19.97 (reg. $600), which will be through Christmas Day at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Prices subject to change.



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14 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in Burnout, News Permalink

Boost Productivity with Coworking Spaces to Prevent Burnout

Sticky Post By On December 14, 2023


Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

This story originally appeared on Under30CEO.com.

People who work remotely often overwork. In just roughly two months, there is every chance of professional burnout. An interesting paradox arises: when a person spends a couple of hours traveling to work and back, he feels freer. How do we identify the symptoms of burnout, enjoy work again, and make remote work comfortable? Let’s look into burnout and coworking spaces as thoroughly as possible.

What problems can coworking solve?

Professional burnout is not an empty phrase and not an excuse. This is a real state in which a burnt-out employee begins to work worse, loses interest in the business, and a previously attractive profession becomes unbearable for him. If nothing is done, a person may even develop depression. Therefore, the fight against burnout is also the responsibility of the employer. How can coworking spaces help with this?

Coworking allows to go beyond the walls of the employee’s home. There will be more development opportunities. The employee will still be able to go to work at workshare offices and leave it at will. But at the same time, he will begin to meet people, make useful acquaintances, and exchange experiences.

Working from home is likewise fraught with distractions. Trips to the grocery, obnoxious neighbors, and youngsters – the employee is in the thick of it all. Productivity declines since there is no conducive environment for work. Employees will benefit from coworking. Distractions are removed here, so people may concentrate only on their tasks. The house will become a comfortable location to unwind and spend time with family and friends. Finally, there will be a clear separation between their personal life and professional obligations, which will prevent stress and overwork.

Coworking will help increase the company’s income. All visitors to the shared workspace can be potential clients or partners. They will help you find contacts of people who will provide profitable orders. You can also hold negotiations and business meetings within the walls of a coworking space. It has the necessary facilities for conferences, meetings with customers, and establishing long-term relationships with partners.

What else does coworking offer?

Friendly atmosphere

Coworking spaces typically maintain a friendly business environment. Employees are surrounded by working people, which in turn allows them to get into a working mood. Moreover, the spaces are fully equipped with the necessary equipment and look great thanks to high-quality repairs and daily cleaning.

Flexible working options

Coworking is an opportunity to create a flexible office, one in which there are no strict regulations and employees are not tied to a specific location. Now the office sphere is changing in principle: people more often work from home, from cafes, from coworking spaces. Many people are introducing a flexible start to the working day so that both night owls and early risers can start at a time that suits them. This flexibility will allow the employee to organize their working time more comfortably, and therefore get more pleasure from work.

Related: The 6 Best Non-Coffee-Shop Sites for Remote Work

Equipped rest areas

Coworking spaces allow you to relax and change your surroundings at any time. They are often equipped with kitchens and special relaxation areas, cozy and comfortable, allowing you to relax and not think about the difficulties of work for some time. Periodic breaks have a beneficial effect on the quality of work, so do not think that this will reduce efficiency. On the contrary: the experience of many large companies shows that employees who take better and more frequent rest, as a result, work more productively and are less prone to burnout. In addition, a pleasant environment, aesthetic design, and good views from the window are also factors that influence employee satisfaction.

Wrap up!

Protection against burnout is important and helps not to lose valuable employees, but at the same time increase their productivity. Coworking spaces can help with this – along with the competent organization of processes, entertainment events, and good working conditions.

In addition to moving employees to coworking spaces instead of working from home, implement wellness programs.

Many coworking space members enjoy perks like good Wi-Fi, coffee, and a nice desk. However, additional wellness benefits can go a long way toward helping members feel happier and healthier, which can help prevent burnout. This could include things like holding yoga classes indoors, bringing in someone to provide massages for members, or partnering with local spas and offering special deals on services for your members.

You can also offer healthier beverages, host fitness classes or partner with a local gym, encourage walk breaks (or coordinate a group walk or run for lunch), and create outdoor spaces where participants can get some fresh air and vitamin D.

Again, these are simply suggestions; how you implement them is ultimately up to you, but the main goal is to empower employees to deal with the stress that might contribute to burnout.



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13 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in Finance, News Permalink

How to Create Generational Wealth With AI

Sticky Post By On December 13, 2023


Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the world, and it’s no secret that those who master and harness this technology can create immense wealth for themselves and their clients. The rapid evolution of AI has brought about a new era where countless business opportunities can be pursued. This article will discuss why AI is the key to becoming wealthy in five years and how you can take advantage of this technological revolution.

Understanding AI and Its Impact

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, refers to developing computer systems that can perform tasks usually requiring human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. AI can be broadly classified into two types: narrow AI, which is designed to perform specific tasks, and general AI, which possesses the cognitive abilities of a human being.

In recent years, AI has rapidly advanced and is being integrated into various industries and businesses, disrupting traditional methods and processes. From self-driving cars and voice assistants to smart algorithms and robotic automation, AI is driving tremendous progress and becoming an essential part of our everyday lives.

Reasons Why AI is the Key to Wealth Creation

There are several reasons why mastering AI can lead to significant wealth within a relatively short time frame:

1. High Demand: With the rapid advancement of AI technology, businesses across all sectors are eagerly seeking skilled AI professionals to help them stay ahead of their competitors. As a result, considerable demand for AI experts leads to lucrative job opportunities and high salaries.

2. Limited Supply: There are not enough qualified AI professionals to meet the growing demand. This skills gap presents a unique opportunity for those willing to invest their time and effort in learning AI, as they can command premium salaries and secure high-paying jobs or consulting opportunities.

3. High-Growth Industries: AI is integrated into various industries, driving innovation and growth. Healthcare, finance, automotive, and e-commerce sectors continually seek AI-driven solutions. As an AI expert, you can leverage these high-growth industries and pave the way to wealth creation.

4. Entrepreneurial Opportunities: AI presents multiple business opportunities for entrepreneurs. From developing AI-based software solutions to launching AI consulting services, skilled AI professionals can create profitable enterprises, set prices, and accumulate wealth.

5. Long-term Potential: AI is not just a flash in the pan; it’s here to stay. As technology evolves, AI will become more sophisticated and integrated into our lives, creating new possibilities and opportunities for wealth creation.

How to Get Started in AI

To begin your journey towards mastering AI and creating wealth, follow these steps:

1. Learn the Basics: Start by acquainting yourself with the fundamentals of AI, machine learning, and data science. Gain knowledge in programming languages such as Python, which is widely used in AI development.

2. Acquire Advanced Skills: After grasping the basics, delve deeper into specialized areas such as neural networks, natural language processing, and computer vision. This advanced understanding will make you more valuable and in-demand in the AI job market.

3. Hands-on Experience: Practical application of your skills is crucial in honing your AI expertise. Work on real-world projects, develop and implement AI algorithms, and collaborate with other AI professionals.

4. Stay Updated: AI is a rapidly evolving field. Continually update your knowledge by attending workshops, conferences, and online courses. Keep an eye on the latest AI research and breakthroughs.

5. Networking: Build connections with other AI professionals, attend industry events, and join AI-focused online communities. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and expand your knowledge.

6. Personal Branding: Develop an online presence showcasing your AI skills and expertise. Create a blog or website to share your projects, research, and insights. This will boost your credibility and help you attract potential employers or clients.

Conclusion

By harnessing the power of AI, you can stand at the forefront of one of the most transformative technologies in human history. As an AI expert, you can create value for businesses, develop innovative solutions, and command lucrative compensation, paving your way to wealth within a short time frame. Begin your AI journey today and unlock endless personal and professional growth opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to developing computer systems that can perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. AI can be classified into two types: narrow AI, which performs specific tasks, and general AI, which possesses the cognitive abilities of a human being.

Why is AI the key to wealth creation?

AI is the key to wealth creation due to high demand for AI professionals, limited supply of qualified experts, integration into high-growth industries, numerous entrepreneurial opportunities, and long-term potential. Mastering AI can lead to lucrative job opportunities, high salaries, and wealth accumulation within a short time frame.

How can I get started in AI?

To get started in AI, learn the basics of AI, machine learning, and data science. Acquire advanced skills in specialized areas, gain hands-on experience, stay updated with the latest AI developments, network with AI professionals, and build a personal brand showcasing your expertise.

What industries can benefit from AI?

AI is being integrated into various industries, driving innovation and growth. Sectors like healthcare, finance, automotive, and e-commerce continually seek AI-driven solutions, creating opportunities for AI experts to leverage these high-growth industries and create wealth.

What programming languages are commonly used in AI development?

Python is one of the most widely used programming languages in AI development. Learning Python and other relevant programming languages can help you build a strong foundation in AI and increase your value in the job market.

The post How to Create Generational Wealth With AI appeared first on Due.



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12 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in News, News and Trends Permalink

Company Congrats Cake Goes Viral Thanks to a Wife’s Message

Sticky Post By On December 12, 2023


An Oregon man is going viral after his wife gave him a cake to celebrate a big work accomplishment.

Reddit user @BobbyIke posted a photo of a cake that his wife bought him from the local bakery, Hungry Hero, in Sherwood, Oregon, to celebrate the completion of the website for his printing company, which took about three years to complete.

Except, the congratulations message on the cake was a little unorthodox.

My wife got me a cake for what I thought was a big accomplishment.
byu/BobbyIke infunny

“Nobody Cares,” the cake exclaimed in blue writing accompanied by rainbow sprinkles.

“Over the years while I was building [my website], every time I completed any small thing like a button or something like that, I would show one of my employees,” the Redditor told Today. “Eventually, I think they just got tired of hearing about me, showing them these small, tiny tasks that I had accomplished.”

One day, one of his employees shouted out, “Nobody cares!” in response to his menial updates on the construction of the website.

“That kind of just became the mantra of me building this website over the past three years,” he explained to the outlet.

Naturally, people in the comments were laughing at the ridiculousness of the cheeky joke.

“I’m sure someone cares. I don’t,” one user joked. “But I’m sure someone somewhere cares.”

“Jokes aside Congrats,” another said with a heartwarming sentiment. “Honestly, I don’t know you or have seen the website, but It shows that you care about your website and are proud of it, and im proud of you!”

@BobbyIke told one user in the comments that his wife had told him to pick up the cake on the way to a party, telling him she was getting a cold and couldn’t make it.

“I burst out laughing when I saw it,” he said on the platform.

Hopefully, the cake was less dry than his wife’s sense of humor.



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11 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in News, The Business Traveler’s Journal Permalink

9 Travel Hacks That Will Save You Time and Money

Sticky Post By On December 11, 2023


For even the most frequent traveler, tackling busy air travel can be an exercise in extreme patience and frustration. Having an arsenal of airport and airline flight hacks can be the difference between a smooth and turbulent journey.

So we spoke to Megan Gougeon, founder of the Portable Professional, a popular YouTube travel vlog with 102,000 subscribers. Gougeon has taken more than 300 flights and worked remotely from 50 countries, so she knows her way around airports and an airplane.

“My videos are all about helping travelers feel confident and capable so they can turn every aspect of their trip, from packing to airport navigation to the flight itself, into an enjoyable and stress-free experience,” she says.

Here are nine travel hacks to make your next trip cheaper and hassle-free.

Related: 6 Secret Tools for Flying First Class (Without Paying Full Price)

1. Turn left at the TSA line

Waiting in long lines to clear security can be a hassle. Some services allow for expedited airport security, such as TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, but they cost money and require you to complete a lengthy application beforehand. Savvy travelers know that another solution to avoid longer lines is to always turn left at the security checkpoint. Why?

“Most people are right-handed and tend to veer to the right naturally. This means the left line might be shorter and faster,” Gougeon explains.

2. Don’t buy water at the airport

After clearing security, many thirsty travelers feel compelled to buy bottled water at the airport to manage the dry cabin air — a big mistake. Thanks to a monopoly by certain water companies at airports, the cost of a 20-ounce water bottle can be anywhere from $2.50 to $5.

Gougeon suggests bringing a collapsable water bottle and filling it up for free at water fountains after passing through security. Another trick: You can ask the staff at Starbucks or one of the coffee shops to refill your water bottle.

3. Wear layers

What do you do if your carry-on luggage is too large or heavy to take on the flight? Gougeon recommends wearing heavier items on the flight and then stashing them away in an overhead compartment if you’re too warm. Another hack is to pack an extra shopping back in your luggage. Use it to carry additional items you must remove from your bag. Most airlines will let you board with a carry-on, backpack and shopping bag.

4. Mark your luggage as “fragile”

Putting a “Fragile” sticker on your luggage encourages baggage handlers to treat it more carefully. “This might also lead to your bag being placed on top of others, potentially resulting in it being among the first to come out at baggage claim,” Bougeon says.

Related: Boomer Women Are Leaving Their Husbands Behind to Travel Solo — Here’s What’s Behind the Unprecedented Trend

5. No power? No problem.

We’ve all been there. We get to the airport, and our phones or computers cling to 8% battery power. Most airport waiting areas have charging stations with USB charging ports. But what if you forgot to pack a charging cord, or it’s in the bag you already checked? Gougeon recommends you head to the airport’s lost and found. “Travelers leave their chargest behind all the time, and they probably have one you can borrow,” Gougeon says.

6. Don’t book an Uber or Lyft from the airport

“It’s often more expensive to book an Uber or Lyft directly from the airport due to additional airport service charges. Walking a short distance from the airport before booking your ride can help you avoid these fees,” Gougeon says.

7. Check these sites before you travel

According to Gougeon, you should check several sites before traveling to get the most bang for your buck.

  • SeatGuru offers detailed airplane seating advice specific to the exact plane you are flying on.
  • Sleeping in Airports is excellent for finding airport amenities, gates and the best sleeping spots.
  • Expert Flyer provides real-time notifications on seat availability, which is especially useful for those looking to snag a more comfortable seat or wanting to monitor the availability of flights for potential changes or upgrades.

8. The best seats for working and sleeping

If you want to sleep, try a window seat at the back of the plane, Gougeon says. “It’s usually quieter and less crowded there, so you might get more space or even a whole row to yourself. Plus, the window gives you something to lean on.” She recommends picking the side of the plane that matches where you usually rest your head to sleep.

If you plan on working during the flight, Gougeon suggests an aisle seat in the middle of the plane. It’s smoother flying over the wings, and you can stretch your arms into the aisle to make working on your laptop easier.

9. Get access to airport lounges for cheap

Most major airline hubs in the U.S. have airline lounges that offer ample seating, plenty of desk space and free food, coffee and WiFi. Some even had showers and napping spots. However, access to these lounges can cost anywhere from $99 to $499 a year. Some credit cards offer complimentary or discounted lounge access, so double-check yours. Gougeon also suggests “looking for discounted lounge passes on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist.”

Related: I Tried the Semi-Private Air Carrier That Lets You Arrive 20 Minutes Before Your Flight. Here’s What It Was Like — And How to Do It Affordably.

Photo courtesy of Megan Gougeon



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10 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in E-bike, News Permalink

The Coolest Way to Commute Is Less Expensive Than Ever

Sticky Post By On December 10, 2023


Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

For many people, commuting is the worst part of work. Sure, as an entrepreneur, you may not have to head into an office all the time, but you still have to go to meetings and get around town. Why suffer traffic and public transportation when you can have a better way to move about?

This holiday season, you can get a BirdBike eBike for one of the best prices you’ll ever find. Through December 17, it’s just $749.97 with free shipping, and as long as you order by December 14, it’s guaranteed to arrive by Christmas.

Made by that Bird, the ones who introduced the world to electric scooter ride-sharing, BirdBike is a precision performance bike that makes it easy to get around town, even when it’s hilly. BirdBike has a powerful 500W motor that supports a smooth ride and an instant boost to help you climb hills, reach top speed, and more. The high-performance carbon drive train and strong v-frame construction help meet the challenge of rough terrain and eliminate the need to maintain your chain like a regular bike.

BirdBike is loaded with a 36V/12.8Ah removable battery, which is more than enough to get you from home to the office and back. When you’re there, the 120db anti-theft alarm gives you some extra peace of mind, too.

User Cam writes, “I’ve been wanting an eBike forever and so happy I could get one from Bird! My favorite part is how easy it is to switch modes and all of the mode options – e-assist various levels, sport, eco, etc. The screen is also beautiful and very high-tech. I’m just under 5’2 and the v-frame fits me well.”

Now through December 17, you can get the BirdBike eBike for 67% off the regular $2,299 price at just $749.97 with free shipping — and order by December 14 for on-time holiday delivery.

Prices subject to change.



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09 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in News, Python Permalink

Get an Education in Python with This Top-Rated Bundle, Now Only $19.99 for the Holidays

Sticky Post By On December 9, 2023


Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

As an entrepreneur, you must constantly adapt to a changing business environment. Unfortunately, even if you want to learn new skills, it can be difficult to head back to the classroom with your busy schedule — that’s where online courses come in handy.

You can now learn to program from the comfort of your couch with the 2023 Complete Python Certification Boot Camp Bundle. This bundle is packed with 12 courses filled with over 130 hours of instruction. It’s taught by top instructors and can be yours for only $19.99.

Want to stop spending money outsourcing all of your programming needs? The 2023 Complete Python Certification Boot Camp Bundle provides a well-rounded education on all things Python, with brand new courses on the popular programming language available whenever best fits your busy schedule.

Taught by top instructors, like Zenva Academy, rated 4.4 stars, you can begin with a good intro, Python Foundations. This course, which has 4.9 stars from past students, shows you how versatile Python can be, ultimately instructing you how to set up your own Python project by the time you’re finished.

Keep up your Python education with other courses like Zenva Academy’s Intro to Coding with Python Turtle, which covers the basics of coding as you start implementing algorithms with programming. Once you have a solid foundation, you can advance to courses like Jose Salvatierra’s The Complete Python Course: Learn Python by Doing in 2023, which shows you exactly how Python can help you in today’s job market.

Master Python from home with The 2023 Complete Python Certification Boot Camp Bundle, on sale now for $19.99 (reg. $84) for a limited time.

Prices subject to change.



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08 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in News, Thought Leaders Permalink

How to Become the LinkedIn Thought Leader You’re Meant to Be

Sticky Post By On December 8, 2023


Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

LinkedIn is the preeminent platform facilitating connection and network-building among millions of professionals around the world.

With over 950 million members in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide, it’s easy to feel like your professional identity becomes lost in the crowd. However, the key to rising above the noise lies in finding and owning your thought leadership niche.

In this article, you will learn the importance of carving out your niche on LinkedIn and explore how identifying and establishing yourself within a specific industry niche can be the game-changer you need to boost your career.

Related: Avoid These 8 Mistakes Leaders Make on LinkedIn Every Day

What is an industry niche?

An industry niche is more than just a buzzword — it’s a strategic focal point within a specific sector that demands specialized knowledge, skills, and expertise.

This can include particular products, services or even segments of the market that have yet to be adequately addressed by existing players in the industry. At its core, an industry niche represents an opportunity for innovation and differentiation.

Honing in on a niche is a proactive step toward establishing yourself as a thought leader. Such deliberate focus allows businesses and individuals to distinguish themselves from the competition, creating a unique space that resonates with a specific audience. It’s a conscious decision not to be a generalist but rather an expert in a particular domain.

Positioning yourself as a go-to authority in a specific realm sets you apart from the broader market. It enables you to address the nuanced needs of a particular audience, fostering a deeper connection with clients, collaborators and stakeholders.

Essentially, embracing an industry niche is a pathway to unlocking new professional opportunities and fostering meaningful collaborations within your chosen sector. As we navigate the landscape of thought leadership on LinkedIn, it becomes increasingly evident that owning your niche is not just about specialization — it’s a strategic move to shape your brand identity.

What are the most important industry niches on LinkedIn?

In a recent industry study by LinkedIn, a comprehensive analysis of user engagement and trends revealed intriguing insights into the platform’s most influential niches.

According to the study, the top ten industries collectively command a significant portion of LinkedIn’s user base, accounting for approximately 29% of all users. These industries, from technology and finance to healthcare and marketing, serve as hubs for professionals to connect, share insights and establish thought leadership.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that these top industries are broad, encompassing various topics and niches under each umbrella. While these large-scale industries may attract a substantial audience, the key to making a meaningful impact on LinkedIn lies in drilling down into specific topics that align with your unique expertise and insights.

Related: 3 Tips to Become a Thought Leader on LinkedIn

For instance, let’s consider the broad industry of sustainability.

While working within this overarching field provides ample opportunities for engagement to truly stand out and find your community on LinkedIn, it’s imperative to focus down on specific topics that resonate with your background, interests and expertise. In this context, you might delve into the niche of the circular economy within the broader sustainability umbrella.

Finding your niche is not only about aligning with a broad industry but also identifying the core topics that genuinely speak to your strengths and interests. Doing so allows you to connect with a more targeted audience who shares your passion and values. LinkedIn becomes a space not just for professional networking but for fostering meaningful conversations within a niche that matters to you.

Why should you care?

Finding and owning your niche on LinkedIn isn’t just a recommended strategy — it’s necessary for anyone seeking to maximize their impact on this influential platform.

LinkedIn continues to see a staggering surge in users and interactions. By defining your niche, you carve out a distinct identity amidst the multitude, allowing you to stand out and have a more significant impact.

But finding your niche is not just about standing out — it’s about building authority.

When you focus on a specific topic that aligns with your core career or business objectives, you position yourself as an expert. This intentional specialization enhances your professional credibility and establishes your thought leadership. If you consistently contribute valuable insights within your niche, you can become a go-to resource for industry-related discussions, further solidifying your authority in the eyes of your peers and followers.

Defining your niche on LinkedIn is also about strategically positioning yourself within a community of like-minded professionals. Identifying and engaging with industry leaders, company founders and subject matter experts within your niche opens doors to invaluable connections.

These connections will enrich your network and provide opportunities for collaboration, mentorship and knowledge exchange. Connecting with individuals who align with your personal goals and broader community interests ensures that your interactions on LinkedIn aren’t just quantity-driven but rich in quality and value.

Related: Why You Can’t Ignore LinkedIn for Thought Leadership

Navigating the LinkedIn landscape with your niche

In the ever-expanding nature of LinkedIn, discovering and embracing your niche transcends the confines of personal branding — it emerges as a deliberate strategy to thrive amidst the platform’s burgeoning user base.

Being strategic about your core thought leadership topics, values and the community you represent becomes paramount to enjoying the benefits of LinkedIn. Making an ongoing commitment to curate content and foster engagement will build a community that resonates with your unique voice.

As you embark on this strategic approach, remember defining your niche is not just a choice. Rather, it’s a pathway to ultimately unlock the full potential of your LinkedIn experience.



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07 Dec 2023
Sticky Post By Posted in Business Models, News Permalink

How to Make High-Priced Products Accessible to Working-Class Families

Sticky Post By On December 7, 2023


Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

There are times when products are inherently expensive. Homes are a classic example. So are vehicles. In those cases, the constant human needs for shelter and transportation have created natural solutions in the form of mortgages and auto loans.

But what about companies outside of staple product niches? Here are three examples of how companies with high-priced products designed for larger consumer markets can make them accessible to working-class families.

Leasing expensive equipment to customers

Leasing is a classic business model. It involves renting an asset under a contractual agreement at a certain price for a set amount of time.

When leasing comes up, it’s usually referencing major assets such as a house or car. However, it’s completely possible to lease a wide variety of additional products.

Related: 5 Major Leasing Deal Points to Know Before Signing a Lease

One example of this is solar panels. NerdWallet reports that the average solar panel installation can cost as much as $35,000. The renewable source of energy can save money over time, but its barrier to entry is inhibitive and has made solar power inaccessible to lower-income homeowners for over a decade.

Some companies aim to combat this by leasing solar panel systems to homeowners. The end result is lower energy bills that ideally cover both the leased equipment and reduce the original cost of energy for the home.

This approach to solar panel installation saves consumers tens of thousands of dollars in up-front fees. This makes it possible for homeowners to tap into the long-term savings of solar power without breaking the bank in the process. The same model is easy to reproduce for any brand that has a solid product and enough capital or investors to front the cash for equipment.

Related: How to Invest In Real Estate Amid High Interest Rates and Inflation

Offering interest-free payments

Interest is a major detracting factor that makes larger purchases unappealing. For example, if an individual purchases a car in New York and takes out a five-year $25,000 auto loan at 5% interest, they’ll end up paying over $2,600 more in interest.

Broken down over 60 months, this is nearly $45 per month in interest alone. To a working-class family, this is a legitimate cost that they must factor into their financial plans.

Savvy companies that sell big-ticket items have caught onto the toll that interest payments take on their customers. Some have opted to offer interest-free payments as an alternative.

Home Depot, for instance, regularly offers its customers coupons for 12-month and even 24-month interest-free financing. The Home Depot credit card also provides a round-the-clock six-month interest-free financing option. That means a customer can hold a balance with the company for that entire period (whether it’s six, 12 or 24 months). As long as they pay off the total before the payment period ends, they won’t pay a penny in interest.

This model assumes a certain degree of risk on the part of the company. However, when managed well, the interest-free financing model more than makes up for the risks in the amount of larger purchases it encourages from those customers with limited up-front funding.

Breaking things into smaller bundles and á la carte pricing

Sometimes, a grouped product selection can push something out of reach of working-class family budgets. When this is the case, splitting a product up into multiple components can help reduce the financial barrier to entry.

The exorbitant cost of cable television is a good example of this issue. Cable provider Spectrum has found a solution to the problem of its excessively priced full television packages by offering its Spectrum TV Choice bundle.

This allows users to choose from a variety of channels to fill up a smaller quota of total channels. They can change their selection once a month, making the arrangement sustainable and accessible.

Not all products come in individual pieces. Whenever that is the case, though, companies should consider innovative ways to repackage the individual components to make them accessible to customers without losing their collective value.

Related: How Businesses Can Empower Consumers to Make Sustainable Choices

Making high-priced products accessible to everyday consumers

The middle class in America is able to make larger purchases. But they cannot do so with the same laissez-faire attitude as those with ample wealth and disposable income.

Companies that want to market higher-priced products to middle-class consumers must be willing to find unique and innovative ways to help them make a purchase. From leasing and financing options to á la carte and “buffet style” offerings, consider how you can make your brand’s big-ticket items accessible to your target audience.



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