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How easy is it to market online?
Zoho Projects is an online task and project management tool designed for small businesses scalable enough for enterprise use.
Projects enables users to organize project activities, assign tasks, and manage resources to reach goals on-time and under budget. It also allows collaboration among team members, clients, and outsourced providers, granting access to information on an as-needed basis. The platform can be simple to use or as comprehensive as business needs require.
“Our company’s aim is to minimize the amount of work needed to use Projects and increase collaboration among businesspeople by making an accessible and affordable productivity solution,” said Aravind Rajkumar, Product Marketing Manager for Zoho Projects, in an interview. “We think a project management tool shouldn’t be too complicated for people to use or too expensive. You have to strike a balance. That’s what we’re trying to do with Projects.”
Zoho Projects
Zoho Projects is replete with features that make it one of the most all-inclusive project management tools on the market.
The product is:
Comprehensive – Projects has nearly everything needed for effective project management and collaboration, including task management, in-depth reporting, chat, and a social media style feed.
Highly Customizable – Users can customize nearly every aspect of the platform, from user interface (UI) colors to views to reports and more.
Scalable – Zoho Projects can grow with the customer’s business operations. “They can use it as a simple task management application or choose to use it as a full-blown project management application to manage their entire portfolio,” Rajkumar said.
(It’s worth noting that Zoho tracks all of its operations in Projects, including product development of the company’s vast ecosystem — more than 50 applications.)
Task Management
Projects started its life in 2006 as a stand-alone task management tool used internally by Zoho employees. (Self-reliance is a core part of Zoho’s ethos, so it develops the tools it needs in-house rather than using third-party applications.)
Since then, Projects has gone through six different UI revamps and is on the verge of going public with the seventh iteration, set for release in January 2021.
“Projects was first called Challenger, and then Tasks,” Rajkumar said. “We then brought in advanced features and rebranded it to be much bigger than just a task management tool.”
Security
Because Zoho provides software to millions of users worldwide — 50 million at last count — it places special emphasis on securing user data and privacy. That includes locking down everything from the organization (e.g., conducting employee background checks) to the physical plant, from its network and data to operations, and each of its more than 50 applications.
All of Zoho’s products, including Projects, is GDPR and CCPA compliant. HIPAA compliance is currently in the works to enable use by healthcare professionals.
A dedicated security team closely monitors all aspects of development, workflows, and user data. User’s emails, even those on the free plans, are not used for advertising.
On the product side, Zoho ties security and privacy to Projects in various ways.
Customized roles and profiles (including client profiles) allow complete control over what information users can see or activities they can perform.
Workflow security via Blueprint (a workflow automation component) enables people to work on various facets of a given task, specifically the part where they are involved.
Fields marked as PII (Personally Identifiable Information) ensure data is encrypted, and administrators can create a log file to check access details.
(Learn more about how seriously Zoho takes security by visiting this page.)
Affordability
Affordability is another key feature. The platform is free for up to three users and two projects. Premium pricing starts at $3 per user per month for the Standard plan and goes to $6.00 per user per month for the fully-loaded Enterprise edition.
Additional Features
Other key platform features include:
Social Project Management
Zoho has added social elements to Projects, such as feeds, forums, a knowledge base, and chat rooms.
Time Tracking
Projects has several tools to help users stay on schedule and account for work hours. These include timesheets, invoicing, and a planning calendar.
Task Automation
A new drag-and-drop interface makes automating tasks easier to visualize and deploy.
Third-party App Integration
Zoho may not rely on third-party apps to run its operation but does allow Projects to integrate with apps like Slack, Google, Dropbox, Microsoft Office, and many more.
New Version Set for January Release
Zoho has set the release of the newest version of Projects (the seventh) for January 2021. Currently, in beta, it features a complete UI makeover. It provides a seamless, consistent user experience across all devices: web and mobile. It also incorporates artificial intelligence (Zoho has its own AI platform called “ZIA”) for forecasting and reporting. Current Projects users can request early access by filling out the form on this page.
Visit Zoho.com to learn more about the company and its product portfolio.
Image: zoho.com
This article, “Zoho Projects: Comprehensive Project Management Tool Focused on User Security, Privacy and Affordability” was first published on Small Business Trends
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What will successful B2B marketing look like in a post-pandemic world, and what can we as marketers do today to be as ready as possible?
Here are 28 quotes from some of the best in the B2B marketing business, taken from our two seasons of Break Free B2B Marketing video interview episodes, that will help keep your efforts on track, energized, and filled with the subtle humanizing elements sometimes neglected in the B2B landscape.
Keep posted for the launch of an all-new season three of Break Free B2B Marketing video interviews, and now let’s dig right in with an array of B2B marketing insights to help you prepare for a successful 2021.
1 — Hal Werner of Mitel
Hal Werner
Global Manager of Digital Marketing and Strategy
Mitel
“If you want to create a piece of content about a topic, but you can’t create the best one, why are you creating it? If you don’t truly believe that you can outdo your competitors in the space for that function, then what are you wasting your time on?”
“Whether you earn it or whether it’s paid for, you’re going to need more voices putting out there what you’re about so that not only people see you, but you begin to be associated with that thing at a critical mass.”
[bctt tweet=”“If you want to create a piece of content about a topic, but you can’t create the best one, why are you creating it?” @halwerner” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Hal in “Break Free B2B Series: Hal Werner on the Intersection of Marketing Creativity and Analytics.”
2 — Stephanie Stahl of Content Marketing Institute
Stephanie Stahl
General Manager
Content Marketing Institute
“As content creators, sometimes we try to do everything that we possibly can on every channel. I think it’s important for content teams and marketing teams to go back and say, ‘What do we need to stop doing? What are we doing that really isn’t giving us the result that we’d like? And how can we then focus more on the things that are working?’ So ask yourselves, ‘What can we stop doing today, so we have more time to do the things we’re really good at?’”
[bctt tweet=”“It’s important for content and marketing teams to go back and say, ‘What do we need to stop doing? What are we doing that isn’t giving us the result we’d like? How can we then focus more on the things that are working?’” @EditorStahl” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Stephanie in “Break Free B2B Series: CMI’s Stephanie Stahl on Data-Driven Event Planning and Promotion.”
3 — Jon Miller of Demandbase
Jon Miller
Chief Product Officer
Demandbase
“The explosion of digital noise means that traditional marketing channels like ads are becoming less and less effective. What marketers need to think about is, how do I orchestrate multiple channels together?”
[bctt tweet=”“The explosion of digital noise means that traditional marketing channels like ads are becoming less and less effective. What marketers need to think about is, how do I orchestrate multiple channels together?” @jonmiller” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Jon in “Break Free B2B Series: Jon Miller on How ABM Can Help Marketers Keep Their ‘Ship’ Together.”
4 — Adi Bachar-Reske of 20x
Adi Bachar-Reske
Founder and CMO
20x
“These days, the way you build the trust is showing how nimble and flexible you can be. Both in your development and your product, but also it has to be reflected in your marketing and your digital presence.”
[bctt tweet=”“The way you build the trust is showing how nimble and flexible you can be. Both in your development and your product, but also it has to be reflected in your marketing and digital presence.” @AdiBacharReske” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Adi in “Break Free B2B Series: Adi Bachar-Reske on Taking the Lead in the Evolution of B2B Content Marketing.”
5 — Emily Thompson of EST Creative
Emily Thompson
Owner
EST Creative
“When an organization can deliver strong content that helps inform people, it only builds that trust. Ultimately, people just want information that’s helpful to them. Especially with digital, it’s very easy today to try a new type of message, or a new way of communicating to someone. Let’s say you never blogged before, why not try a blog? Let’s say you never did email marketing, why not try it? Or a new type of message? The worst that can happen is you measure it, you learn from it, and you try something new.”
[bctt tweet=”“When an organization can deliver strong content that helps inform people, it only builds that trust. Ultimately, people just want information that’s helpful to them.” @BosCreativeCopy” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Emily in “Break Free B2B Series: Emily Thompson on the Power of Content Marketing in Health Care.”
6 — Margaret Magnarelli of Morgan Stanley
Margaret Magnarelli
Executive Director of Digital Product Evolution and Growth Marketing
Morgan Stanley
“We have to be able to give our customers as much information as we can, and take them as close to the line of purchase — to the experience of purchase — as we can.”
“People can see through fake attempts to build trust. It’s hard for consumers to just believe a brand when they say they can do a thing. So if you have other people who say you can do a thing and you can do it well, and they can be your advocates, that’s really powerful.”
[bctt tweet=”“It’s hard for consumers to just believe a brand when they say they can do a thing. So if you have other people who say you can do a thing and you can do it well, and they can be your advocates, that’s really powerful.” @mmagnarelli” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Margaret in “Break Free B2B Series: Margaret Magnarelli on the Psychology of Trust for Better Content Marketing.”
7 — Gary Gerber of nClouds
Gary Gerber
Head of Product Marketing
nClouds
“It’s about building a relationship that’s built on trust, not on hype. If you’ve built that trust and you’re adding that value to them that they trust you’re interested in their success, and you’re providing information and content and messaging and whatever it is, that will help them be successful.”
[bctt tweet=”“It’s about building a relationship that’s built on trust, not on hype.” @Gary_Gerber” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Gary in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Gary Gerber on Scaling ABM without Losing Focus.”
8 — Kelvin Gee of Oracle
Kelvin Gee
Senior Director, Modern Marketing Business Transformation
Oracle*
“We believe that data is the future of B2B marketing. If the goal is to deliver a better customer experience, you’ve got to break down those data silos.”
“Once you consolidate all your data silos onto one bed, so to speak — in this case a customer intelligence platform or customer data platform or whatever you want to use — once you combine all that data, that’s when you start to see all the insights of your customers. All marketers should have empathy. What drives customer-centricity is empathy.”
[bctt tweet=”“We believe that data is the future of B2B marketing. If the goal is to deliver a better customer experience, you’ve got to break down those data silos.” @kgee” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Kelvin in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Oracle’s Kelvin Gee on Winning with Enterprise ABM.”
9 — Danny Nail of Microsoft
Danny Nail
Account Based Engagement
Microsoft
“Historically, marketing and sales have kind of been at odds a bit, which is unfortunate, but ABM brings the two together. The key to that is understanding the sales cycle, and understanding how sellers think and what they’re up against. The continuum should be from target account marketing, to ABM, to one-to-one ABM, all the way across that scale.”
“You have to let go of templatized, old ideas. You have to break free of thinking about things the way we’ve always thought about them, and start really digging into how you can change what you’re doing and make it more efficient, more effective, but be creative about that.”
[bctt tweet=”“You have to let go of templatized old ideas to break free of thinking about things the way we’ve always thought about them and start digging into how you can change what you’re doing and make it more efficient and effective.” @DannyNail” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Danny in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Danny Nail of SAP on Creating a Global ABM Platform.”
10 — Julie Brown of Johnson Controls
Julie Brown
Institutional Market Leader
Johnson Controls
“It really starts with understanding what customer needs are — where are their pain points — are there new and creative ways that we can help address those needs and pain points?”
[bctt tweet=”“It really starts with understanding what customer needs are — where are their pain points — are there new and creative ways that we can help address those needs and pain points?” — Julie Brown” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Julie in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Julie Brown of Johnson Controls on Proving the EBIT of Your Marketing.”
11 — Andre Ortolon of Dell Outlet
Andre Ortolon
eCommerce and Marketing Manager
Dell Outlet*
“There’s so much data out there. We’re so busy with emails and meetings that you can really get stuck in a rut and forget to take the time to step back and look at the bigger picture.”
“You also have to take stock sometimes and really look at your overall process, you can’t always be in the execution mode, you have to look at end to end, the processes and making sure that you’re developing kind of a holistic approach and not just selling a unit. You’ve got to think about your strategy and make sure you’re still aligned with that in what you’re doing day to day.”
[bctt tweet=”“There’s so much data out there. We’re so busy with emails and meetings that you can really get stuck in a rut and forget to take the time to step back and look at the bigger picture.” — Andre Ortolon” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Andre in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Dell Outlet’s Andre Ortolon on Microinfluencers for Hyper-Relevant Content.”
12 — Amanda Todorovich of Cleveland Clinic
Amanda Todorovich
Senior Director of Digital Marketing Health Content
Cleveland Clinic.
“I think it’s really important content marketing is not a campaign, it’s not a project, it’s not a one-off. We like to talk about our content channels and process like products, you know, you really need to invest in them. It’s a long-term strategy. It’s something that you really have to think about how you build a long-term committed relationship with that user – it’s not a one-and-done. There’s never really an end to it. It’s continuous and iterative.”
[bctt tweet=”“You really have to think about how you build a long-term committed relationship with the user – it’s not a one-and-done. There’s never really an end to it. It’s continuous and iterative.” @amandatodo” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Amanda in “Break Free B2B Series: Amanda Todorovich on Creating Content that Pays Off.”
13 — Amisha Gandhi of SAP Ariba
Amisha Gandhi
Vice President of Influencer Marketing and Communications
SAP Ariba*
“Do not just start calling influencers and say, ‘I’m doing this campaign, do you want to be a part of it?’ and be very prescriptive. You want to invite people to be in your program first and then do some brainstorming with them and see what they like, how they like to interact or what they like to do for companies.”
[bctt tweet=”“You want to invite people to be in your program first and then do some brainstorming with them and see what they like, how they like to interact or what they like to do for companies.” @AmishaGandhi” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Amisha in “Break Free B2B Series: Amisha Gandhi on Global B2B Influencer Marketing.”
14 — Brody Dorland of DivvyHQ
Brody Dorland
Co-Founder
DivvyHQ
“The holistic content marketing world, which is non-campaign focused, continues to proliferate. It’s going to get better, but most agencies out there are still so campaign focused — that’s what they’ve been doing for decades. Getting out of that mindset, even from a logistics standpoint, is harder for an agency to do. Not to say that agencies can’t continually be involved in longer-term content marketing engagements, but it’s just it’s a different beast, a different animal than the typical world that they’ve been in for decades.”
[bctt tweet=”“Most agencies out there are still so campaign focused —that’s what they’ve been doing for decades. Getting out of that mindset, even from a logistics standpoint, is harder for an agency to do.” @brodydorland” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Brody in “Break Free B2B Series: Brody Dorland on Creating Long-Lasting Content Marketing Strategy.”
15 — Clare Carr of Chief
Clare Carr
Vice President of Marketing
Chief
“It takes a human element that cannot be taken out of this equation. If you can make data something that people associate with you, they trust you more, you can connect with them more, and you can tell better stories. All those things you want as a content marketer, as a B2B marketer, data can actually do for you. It’s not just good writing, good storytelling, and good creative anymore.”
[bctt tweet=”“All those things you want as a content marketer, as a B2B marketer, data can actually do for you. It’s not just good writing, good storytelling, and good creative anymore.” @clareondrey” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Clare in “Break Free B2B Series: Clare Carr on Using Data to Drive Content Marketing Success.”
16 — Janine Wegner of Dell Technologies
Janine Wegner
Global Thought Leadership Program and Activation Manager
Dell Technologies*
“What’s the customer journey? And what are the content pieces we want to develop? And what are the voices we want to have in each of them, and how to then activate and amplify those?”
[bctt tweet=”“What are the content pieces we want to develop? What are the voices we want to have in each of them, and how to then activate and amplify those?” @JanineWegner” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Janine in “Break Free B2B Series: Janine Wegner on Building Brand Thought Leadership With the Help of Influencers,” and in our Inside Influence series with “Inside Influence: Janine Wegner from Dell on Thought Leadership and Influencer Relations.”
17 — John Joyce of Brennan Industries
John Joyce
Global Marketing Director
Brennan Industries
“We try to do mainly two things: build trust and also provide value. We want them to trust this and to think of us as the place to go that provides value from the very beginning of the relationship, from the first time they go to the website – oh yeah, this is really good. It’s providing me the answers to my questions and knowledge I need, it’s saving me money”
[bctt tweet=”“We try to do mainly two things: build trust and also provide value. It’s providing me the answers to my questions and the knowledge I need, and saving me money.” @mrjohnjoyce” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with John in “Break Free B2B Series: John Joyce on Taking B2B Content Marketing Back 2 Basics.”
18 — Judy Tian of LinkedIn
Judy Tian
Marketing Manager
LinkedIn*
“Relevancy and engagement are what’s important. Are the influencers actually experts in the areas you want to talk about? And are they going to have credibility with their end users? And then are they going to shed credibility onto your brand as a result?”
[bctt tweet=”“Relevancy and engagement are what’s important. Are the influencers actually experts in the areas you want to talk about? And are they going to have credibility with their end users?” @judytian07″ username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Judy in “Break Free B2B Series: Judy Tian on Humanizing B2B Through Influencer Marketing.”
19 — Maliha Aqeel of Fix Network World
Maliha Aqeel
Director of Global Communications
Fix Network World
“Focus on culture. There’s still a misconception that culture is about only HR. But culture is something that’s pervasive throughout the organization, and why we choose to work somewhere, why we choose to engage with the brand.”
[bctt tweet=”“There’s still a misconception that culture is about only HR. Culture is something that’s pervasive throughout the organization, and why we choose to work somewhere, why we choose to engage with a brand.” @MalihaQ” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Maliha in “Break Free B2B Series: Maliha Aqeel on How to Ace B2B Company Culture.”
20 — Tom Treanor of Arm Treasure Data
Tom Treanor
CMO
Arm Treasure Data*
“You can’t solve personalization before you solve customer understanding. At the top of the funnel, keep it very basic and personalize at a high level.”
[bctt tweet=”“You can’t solve personalization before you solve customer understanding. At the top of the funnel, keep it very basic and personalize at a high level.” @RtMixMktg” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Tom in “Break Free B2B Series: Tom Treanor on Perfecting B2B Marketing Personalization.”
21 — Zari Venhaus of Eaton
Zari Venhaus
Director of Corporate Marketing Communications
Eaton
“I see the IT space and the marketing space are starting to come together so much more — particularly when you think about martech. We learned that it wasn’t enough to just be marketing coming to IT with an answer. We really needed to involve our IT partners upfront in the process.”
[bctt tweet=”“The IT space and the marketing space are starting to come together so much more — particularly when you think about martech.” @zvenhaus” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Zari in “Break Free B2B Series: Zari Venhaus on How to Scoot Your Way to Martech Transformation Through Storytelling.”
22 — Adam Dunn, Oscar-Winning VFX Editor
Adam Dunn
Oscar-winning VFX Editor
Evil Ice Cream Productions
“Video marketing is intriguing, because it brings in real-life storytelling. The biggest factor in successful video content is cohesiveness of vision.”
[bctt tweet=”“Video marketing is intriguing, because it brings in real-life storytelling. The biggest factor in successful video content is cohesiveness of vision.” @adamjdunn” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Adam in “Break Free B2B Series: Adam Dunn on Creating Blockbuster Video Content in B2B.”
23 — Carol-Lyn Jardine of Alteryx
Carol-Lyn Jardine
Vice President of Marketing Operations and Productivity
Alteryx
“Assume good intent from the people around you as you’re going through change behaviors.”
[bctt tweet=”“Assume good intent from the people around you as you’re going through change behaviors.” @cljardine” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Carol-Lyn in “Break Free B2B Series: Carol-Lyn Jardine and Heather Hurst on Effectively Managing Change in B2B Marketing.”
24 — Sruthi Kumar of Sendoso
Sruthi Kumar
Associate Director of Field and Partner Marketing
Sendoso
“It’s about bringing all the channels together to create that seamless experience for the end user, and that person who you want to book a meeting with or have a signed contract with or whatever else you need from them. I think it’s just about being okay with being yourself and incorporating that into your whole corporate brand.”
[bctt tweet=”“It’s about bringing all the channels together to create that seamless experience for the end user, and that person who you want to book a meeting with or have a signed contract with or whatever else you need from them.” @sruthikkumar” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Sruthi in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Sruthi Kumar on Creating Memorable Experiences.”
25 — Latané Conant of 6sense
Latane Conant
Chief Market Officer
6sense
“You look at the tools that we have at our disposal as CMOs, and it’s sort of like we are a Model T trying to get to the moon. I think the challenge that we have is only 13 percent of sales and marketing teams have any confidence in their data.”
[bctt tweet=”“You look at the tools that we have at our disposal as CMOs, and it’s sort of like we are a Model T trying to get to the moon.” @LataneConant” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Latane in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Latane Conant of 6sense on Reinventing the CMO Role.”
26 — Mark Bornstein of ON24
Mark Bornstein
Vice President of Marketing
ON24
“It’s the experience you give, it’s the way you’re able to connect and interact with audiences that matters. Because that’s where you’re going to get the real data. That’s where you’re going to learn a lot about them. You want to create an environment where people are doing stuff, and it’s a multi-touch content experience.”
“We need to find ways to get people who want our marketing to opt into our marketing. At a time when all of this digital noise is scaring them away. We need to bring them back in through more authentic, more human, more experiential marketing.”
[bctt tweet=”“We need to find ways to get people who want our marketing to opt in. At a time when all of this digital noise is scaring them away, we need to bring them back in through more authentic, human, and experiential marketing.” @4markb” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Mark in “Break Free B2B Marketing: “Webinerd” Mark Bornstein of ON24 on Dialing In Digital Experiences.”
27 — Sofia O’Malley of Dell Technologies
Sofia O’Malley
Global Marketing Director
Dell Technologies*
“You really have to be cognizant of what is unique to each market. What’s the consumer behavior? Or what’s the consumer expectation within a given market or appetite for a type of execution. Be very much aware of the environment and the key nuances that are needed to effectively drive marketing in a region.”
[bctt tweet=”“You really have to be cognizant of what is unique to each market. What’s the consumer behavior? Or what’s the consumer expectation within a given market or appetite for a type of execution.” — Sofia O’Malley” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Sofia in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Sofia O’Malley of Dell Outlet on Creating a Global B2B & B2C Marketing Team.”
28 — Sean Crowley of Dun & Bradstreet
Sean Crowley
Leader of Integrated Marketing and Sales and Marketing Solutions
Dun & Bradstreet
“When you look at being able to bring people together, it’s about creating a common message, a common purpose, and a common effort with everything that you do and how you go to market. Ensure that you have consistency of messaging to a target persona and target audience, regardless of what channel they’re choosing to interact with you on.”
“The balance of power of information has shifted from the vendors to the consumers, to the buyers, and they can now go and search for information much more readily — much more freely — and they want that choice of how and when they choose to interact with you.”
[bctt tweet=”“When you look at being able to bring people together, it’s about creating a common message, a common purpose, and a common effort with everything that you do and how you go to market.” @seantcrowley” username=”toprank”]Watch our full interview with Sean in “Break Free B2B Marketing: Sean Crowley of Dun & Bradstreet on Cracking the Alignment Code.”
Embrace An Energized 2021 B2B Marketing Landscape
Use the energizing advice we’ve highlighted here from 28 B2B marketing innovators to spark your own marketing ideas that will take you to electrifying new heights in 2021 and beyond.
One powerful way to combine many of these energizing marketing elements is by harnessing the power of B2B influencer marketing, as we outline in our groundbreaking 2020 State of B2B Influencer Marketing Report, featuring insights from hundreds of marketers surveyed as well as expert analysis by the TopRank Marketing team and contributions from top B2B influencer marketing professionals from SAP, LinkedIn, AT&T Business, Adobe, Traackr, IBM, Dell, Cherwell Software, monday.com and more.
Contact us to find out why TopRank Marketing is the only B2B marketing agency offering influencer marketing as a top capability in Forrester’s “B2B Marketing Agencies, North America” report, and discover how we can help create award-winning marketing for you.
* Oracle, Dell Outlet, SAP Ariba, Dell Technologies, LinkedIn, Arm Treasure Data, are TopRank Marketing clients.
The post 28 B2B Marketing Insights To Energize & Humanize Your 2021 appeared first on B2B Marketing Blog – TopRank®.
How easy is it to market online?
A logo is one of the most important elements of a business’s branding. And none more so than with an agriculture business.
Certain colors and imagery denotes agriculture. By incorporating such recognizable features into a logo, it becomes instantly identifiable as an agriculture business to audiences.
LogoDesign, professional logo makers, provide tips on how to create agricultural logo designs. The infographic looks at the best types of logos for an agricultural business. Some of the best type of logos for agriculture ventures include:
Monogram Logos
These logos combine the initials of a brand into the design of the logo.
Wordmark Logos
Another font-type logo, which combines the brand’s name with a distinctive typeface.
Iconic Logos
Iconic logos use real-world objects that are easily recognized as an agricultural item, such as a farm or field.
Abstract Logos
These graphic-led logos represent a concept embodied by the agriculture business.
Mascot Logos
These logos use a mascot, animal, or person – real or fictional – to depict the brand.
Combination Mark
Combination mark logos combines words and picture using both a monogram and wordmark to represent an agriculture business.
Choosing the Right Font
Different fonts denote different messages. The choice of font for a logo is important in creating the right image and message for any business, including an agriculture business.
If, for example, an agriculture business is trying to create a serious, formal tone to establish trust and authority, they might want to opt for Serifs. Serifs is a traditional, classic font, which provides an authoritative and formal branding message.
By contrast, Sans-Serif is more informal, creating a modern, fun and creative feel, which could be more suitable for newer businesses.
Think About the Color
Being ‘at one’ with nature, agriculture is an inherently colorful industry. The choice of logo color is therefore significant and important. Green is an obvious choice for a logo for an agriculture business, denoting the environment and an aura of vitality.
Brown is another ‘safe’ agriculture color, recognizable as being ‘at one’ with nature. In psychological terms, brown also imbues reliability and authenticity.
Organic Farm Logos
Organic is a buzzword in farming. For agriculture businesses that pride themselves on being organic, they might want to get this message across in their logo. Organicity can be achieved by making green the dominant color of the logo. The logo could showcase a connection to nature through the choice of imagery. The logo could also incorporate company achievements or certifications to prove it offers organic farming.
You might want to “think outside the box” somewhat and create a logo that doesn’t comply with conventional agriculture branding. Either way, your logo should reflect your agriculture business’s brand, personality, message and mission.
Images: LogoDesign.net
This article, “Tips for Creating a Logo for an Agriculture Business” was first published on Small Business Trends
How easy is it to market online?
A logo is one of the most important elements of a business’s branding. And none more so than with an agriculture business.
Certain colors and imagery denotes agriculture. By incorporating such recognizable features into a logo, it becomes instantly identifiable as an agriculture business to audiences.
LogoDesign, professional logo makers, provide tips on how to create agricultural logo designs. The infographic looks at the best types of logos for an agricultural business. Some of the best type of logos for agriculture ventures include:
Monogram Logos
These logos combine the initials of a brand into the design of the logo.
Wordmark Logos
Another font-type logo, which combines the brand’s name with a distinctive typeface.
Iconic Logos
Iconic logos use real-world objects that are easily recognized as an agricultural item, such as a farm or field.
Abstract Logos
These graphic-led logos represent a concept embodied by the agriculture business.
Mascot Logos
These logos use a mascot, animal, or person – real or fictional – to depict the brand.
Combination Mark
Combination mark logos combines words and picture using both a monogram and wordmark to represent an agriculture business.
Choosing the Right Font
Different fonts denote different messages. The choice of font for a logo is important in creating the right image and message for any business, including an agriculture business.
If, for example, an agriculture business is trying to create a serious, formal tone to establish trust and authority, they might want to opt for Serifs. Serifs is a traditional, classic font, which provides an authoritative and formal branding message.
By contrast, Sans-Serif is more informal, creating a modern, fun and creative feel, which could be more suitable for newer businesses.
Think About the Color
Being ‘at one’ with nature, agriculture is an inherently colorful industry. The choice of logo color is therefore significant and important. Green is an obvious choice for a logo for an agriculture business, denoting the environment and an aura of vitality.
Brown is another ‘safe’ agriculture color, recognizable as being ‘at one’ with nature. In psychological terms, brown also imbues reliability and authenticity.
Organic Farm Logos
Organic is a buzzword in farming. For agriculture businesses that pride themselves on being organic, they might want to get this message across in their logo. Organicity can be achieved by making green the dominant color of the logo. The logo could showcase a connection to nature through the choice of imagery. The logo could also incorporate company achievements or certifications to prove it offers organic farming.
You might want to “think outside the box” somewhat and create a logo that doesn’t comply with conventional agriculture branding. Either way, your logo should reflect your agriculture business’s brand, personality, message and mission.
Images: LogoDesign.net
This article, “Tips for Creating a Logo for an Agriculture Business” was first published on Small Business Trends
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Consumer habits have changed dramatically in the past seven months. And it is not going to be any different for Halloween in 2020. This according to the study from RetailMeNot in its annual report and infographic about Halloween.
According to the study, COVID-19 will impact the plans Americans have for Halloween. A clear majority or 80% say their plans will change because of the Pandemic. And when it comes to shopping, 34% say they do not plan to shop for costumes. However, they are looking for ways to celebrate safely in their homes.
Consumer Behavior Changing for Halloween 2020
The issue of safety has always been a big concern during Halloween, but this year there is an added burden. How to keep kids and adults protected from the virus. In the study, 21% of the respondents say they will come up with creative ways for their children to celebrate.
Another 26% say they will still trick or treat while taking protective measures. This means small businesses that count on Halloween for a boost in sales will still get traffic through their door or eCommerce page. But it might be lighter than in past years.
Optimizing your website and social media channels is a great way to make up for the loss you are going to experience in your physical store.
The Economy of Halloween
Although Halloween is known for its fun, not many people are aware it is a multi-billion event in the U.S. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF) hallowing spending in 2019 was around $9 billion. And the average spend per person was $86.79.
The NRF forecasts this year the spending will go down to $8 billion, however, the average person is going to spend more at $92.12. The NRF has been keeping track of Halloween spending since 2005, and overall, it has been going up. A dip during the financial crisis of 2007/08 is the only noteworthy fluctuation.
For small businesses supplying their customers with Halloween paraphernalia, this bodes well. The overall sales might be slightly down, but each person is going to be spending more.
Take a look at the infographic from RetailMeNot below.
Image: Depositphotos.com
This article, “Consumer Habits Changing for Halloween 2020 – Is Your Store Adapting?” was first published on Small Business Trends
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A new report from ShipStation reveals a 33% jump over the past year in online shopping. And almost two-thirds say most of their shopping is now online because of the pandemic. As more consumers shop online, their shipping experience is becoming more important than ever.
The report, titled, “Last Touch, Lasting Impact: The 2020-2021 Edition,” outlines the shopping habits of consumers and the impact of brand perception when it comes to shipping. And in 2020, the delivery experience is more influential for consumers. So much so, 84% of the respondents say it stands out most in the e-commerce customer experience.
In the release for the report, Cindy Schulz, General Manager at ShipStation, highlighted yet another telling data point about shipping. Schulz goes on to say, “… 92 percent agree that knowing their order will arrive when expected is a key factor in their online purchase decisions.” This is more than nine in 10 customers.
ShipStation Survey on Customer Shipping Expectations
Consumers are more understanding because of the pandemic (79%) when it comes to shipping, however, six in 10 say this is just for the short term. And to compensate for the slow shipping, consumers say they want free shipping.
Shipping speed and cost are still important because 37% say speed influences their purchasing decision while 39% say it is cost. And surprisingly consumers are willing to wait up to eight days to get their package with 79% adding they expect delays because of COVID-19.
Additional findings:
- 87% say the shipping and delivery experience directly impacts their decision to shop with the merchant again
- 83% are less likely to re-purchase from a retailer after a negative delivery or shipping experience
- 54% say overall return policy is a major consideration when purchasing online
- 70% say a negative delivery or shipping experience negatively impacts their impression of the brand and not the carrier
- 1 in 3 consumers leave bad reviews or post on social media about a poor delivery experience
Making Up for Any Inconvenience
On the other hand, consumers are willing to give retailers another chance if they try to make up for any delivery inconvenience.
Over nine in 10 or 93% are more likely to shop with a brand again if the retailer acknowledges or rectifies a poor delivery experience. Even more consumers, 96%, say fast and honest updates about a shipping issue makes them less likely to be upset. Adding they are also less likely to have a negative perception of the brand.
Image: Depositphotos.com
This article, “A Customer’s Shipping Experience More Important Than Ever” was first published on Small Business Trends
How easy is it to market online?
A new report from ShipStation reveals a 33% jump over the past year in online shopping. And almost two-thirds say most of their shopping is now online because of the pandemic. As more consumers shop online, their shipping experience is becoming more important than ever.
The report, titled, “Last Touch, Lasting Impact: The 2020-2021 Edition,” outlines the shopping habits of consumers and the impact of brand perception when it comes to shipping. And in 2020, the delivery experience is more influential for consumers. So much so, 84% of the respondents say it stands out most in the e-commerce customer experience.
In the release for the report, Cindy Schulz, General Manager at ShipStation, highlighted yet another telling data point about shipping. Schulz goes on to say, “… 92 percent agree that knowing their order will arrive when expected is a key factor in their online purchase decisions.” This is more than nine in 10 customers.
ShipStation Survey on Customer Shipping Expectations
Consumers are more understanding because of the pandemic (79%) when it comes to shipping, however, six in 10 say this is just for the short term. And to compensate for the slow shipping, consumers say they want free shipping.
Shipping speed and cost are still important because 37% say speed influences their purchasing decision while 39% say it is cost. And surprisingly consumers are willing to wait up to eight days to get their package with 79% adding they expect delays because of COVID-19.
Additional findings:
- 87% say the shipping and delivery experience directly impacts their decision to shop with the merchant again
- 83% are less likely to re-purchase from a retailer after a negative delivery or shipping experience
- 54% say overall return policy is a major consideration when purchasing online
- 70% say a negative delivery or shipping experience negatively impacts their impression of the brand and not the carrier
- 1 in 3 consumers leave bad reviews or post on social media about a poor delivery experience
Making Up for Any Inconvenience
On the other hand, consumers are willing to give retailers another chance if they try to make up for any delivery inconvenience.
Over nine in 10 or 93% are more likely to shop with a brand again if the retailer acknowledges or rectifies a poor delivery experience. Even more consumers, 96%, say fast and honest updates about a shipping issue makes them less likely to be upset. Adding they are also less likely to have a negative perception of the brand.
Image: Depositphotos.com
This article, “A Customer’s Shipping Experience More Important Than Ever” was first published on Small Business Trends
Did you lose your job or business in this pandemic?
The Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council) is voicing its opposition towards what it called the nationalization of 5G by the Government.
SBE Council’s opposition joins a growing coalition of organizations urging the government to prevent the Department of Defenses’ (DoD’s) takeover of the 5G network in the U.S. The Global 5G Race
Small Business Advocate Speaks Against Nationalized 5G
The SBE is arguing that the government opting to deploy and experiment with untested models for 5G would lead to the U.S. not winning the global 5G race. It opposes the ’ DoD’s plan to what it called starting to deploy 5G networks from zero. Even though there are other initiatives that are already on the path towards rolling out 5G networks.
Rather the SBE is arguing for the private sector to take the lead in rolling out 5G across America.
It is arguing that:
- DoD’s plan would cost tens of billions of taxpayer dollars and take decades to build a network from scratch
- Nationalizing the US’s communications system would thwart private-sector ingenuity and enterprise
- America’s private companies such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile have already invested billions of dollars towards building national 5G
- The 4G race was won by America because the private sector was empowered to build multiple competitive 4G networks by freeing up the necessary spectrum and eliminating unnecessary regulations
- Allowing the federal government control over the nation’s 5G spectrum would undermine the successful collaborative approach. This approach has enabled $2 trillion of private-sector investment in network infrastructure.
The 5G Challenge for the DoD
According to a report by the Defense Innovation Board, last year the DoD faced vulnerabilities in its supply chain both at the subcomponent level to the integrated network level in the 5G environment.
In previous decades, the DoD was able to operate on tailored systems. This fulfilled its unique security requirements as a large user relative to the rest of the commercial world. However, with 5G that privilege may no longer no exist.
North America had some 1.18 million 5G connections during the first quarter of 2020. This is set to reach 10 million 5G connections by the end of the year.
Image: Depositphotos.com
This article, “Nationalized 5G is Bad for Small Business, Advocacy Group Says” was first published on Small Business Trends
Did you lose your job or business in this pandemic?
There is no doubt 2020 has been a challenge. And that is putting it mildly for many small business owners that are struggling to stay afloat. If you have a doozy of a story to tell on how you are chugging along and persevering, it might just win you $50,000.
Just tell the world how have the events of 2020 affected your business. The winning stories will receive one of several cash prizes, with a Grand Prize of $50,000. You have to write your story with 500 words or less and provide a photo to go along with it. The photo is part of the giveaway and it is evaluated as part of the judging process.
Make sure to not use stock photos or materials with copyright you don’t own. If you do, you will get disqualified. Make sure to go over the full rules thoroughly before you submit your story.
Click the red button and register for a chance to win the $50K by telling your story.
Featured Events, Contests and Awards
Domain and Web Hosting Webinar
October 27, 2020, Online
Learn the basics of choosing and registering a domain name. We’ll also go over web hosting options so you can decide what’s best for your business.
Small Business Expo 2020 – PHILADELPHIA
October 28, 2020, Philadelphia, PA
Small Business Expo is a FREE one-day event to attend for small businesses to network, attend great business-growth workshops, build new business relationships, exchange ideas, shop from new vendors and learn from leading industry experts. If you are serious about starting or growing your business, Small Business Expo is a “must attend” event. Small Business Expo is the #1 Business to Business Networking Event for business owners, entrepreneurs, start-ups, decision-makers or anyone who works for a small business or is interested in starting a Small Business.
Small Business Big Wins: Share Your Story for a Chance to Win $50,000
October 31, 2020, Online
Barclays US Consumer Bank is asking small business owners to share how the events of 2020 have affected their business. Tell us your story for a chance to win $50,000 and other cash prizes!
Establishing Your Brand Story and Voice Webinar
November 3, 2020, Online
Learn how to find, incorporate, and use your brand’s voice throughout your website to increase website traffic, improve customer engagement, and drive brand loyalty. See how to write an awesome About Us page and use keywords for SEO.
Webinar: Elements of Design and How to Talk with a Designer
November 10, 2020, Online
Join to gain a basic understanding of visual hierarchy, how to use a grid, and how to effectively communicate with a designer. This webinar is a great resource whether you’re making your own website, hiring a web designer, or using a drag-and-drop website builder.
LinkUpConferenceShow
November 12, 2020, Online
LinkUpConferenceShow (LUCS) is a digital networking conference that merges the incredibly dynamic worlds of tech and comedy to provide informative and personalized networking opportunities designed to help executives, entrepreneurs, business leaders and tech professionals grow and scale their businesses. LUCS is the tech conference that combines Silicon Valley insights with New York’s nonstop energy to bring the technology community a totally new virtual experience designed to inspire, engage and entertain.
Zoho Webinar: Converting Visitors to Leads
November 17, 2020, Online
Want to learn how to turn website visitors into leads? Then look no further! We’ll go over CTAs, web forms, and Zoho PageSense so you can see how to optimize your website through iterative testing.
Getting Started with Zoho One
November 24, 2020, Online
A walk through overview of Zoho One using real case studies from Zoho customers to demonstrate different ways Zoho One can support your business. Join us!
DigiMarCon New Zealand 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
August 18, 2021, Auckland, New Zealand
Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference – August 18-19, 2021 – Auckland, New Zealand
More Events
- Miami’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 20, 2020, Online - Small Business Expo 2020 – CHICAGO
October 20, 2020, Chicago, IL - Healthy Minds Innovations to Host Virtual Healthy Minds@Work MasterClass on Mental Health and Stress Reduction
October 20, 2020, Online - Forbes School of Business & Technology Thought Leader Summit and Young Thought Leader Summit
October 20, 2020, Online - Running a Startup in a Down Economy (Webinar with Q&A)
October 21, 2020, Online - Atlanta’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 22, 2020, Atlanta, GA - The New Rules of Influencer Marketing (Panelists from Pinterest, Edeleman, SAP and more)
October 22, 2020, Online - MamaCon 2020– A Virtual Conference for Mamapreneurs
October 23, 2020, Online - Houston’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 24, 2020, Houston, TX - Austin’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 26, 2020, Austin, TX - Claims Innovation USA Virtual Event
October 26, 2020, Online - Virtual Client Attraction Bootcamp
October 26, 2020, Online - AI DevWorld 2020
October 27, 2020, Online - Responsible Business USA 2020
October 27, 2020, Online - World-Famous HR Technology Event, Oct. 2020
October 27, 2020, Online - Salt Lake City’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 31, 2020, Austin, TX - Denver’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
November 2, 2020, Denver, CO - San Jose’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
November 5, 2020, San Jose, CA - Oregon and Washington State and Local Tax Update for Real Estate Businesses
November 5, 2020, Online - San Diego’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
November 7, 2020, San Diego, CA
More Contests
This weekly listing of small business events, contests and awards is provided as a community service by Small Business Trends.
You can see a full list of events, contest and award listings or post your own events by visiting the Small Business Events Calendar.
Image: smallbizbigwins.com
This article, “Tell Your 2020 Small Business Survival Story and Win $50,000 Cash” was first published on Small Business Trends
Did you know you could market your business online at a very low cost?
There is no doubt 2020 has been a challenge. And that is putting it mildly for many small business owners that are struggling to stay afloat. If you have a doozy of a story to tell on how you are chugging along and persevering, it might just win you $50,000.
Just tell the world how have the events of 2020 affected your business. The winning stories will receive one of several cash prizes, with a Grand Prize of $50,000. You have to write your story with 500 words or less and provide a photo to go along with it. The photo is part of the giveaway and it is evaluated as part of the judging process.
Make sure to not use stock photos or materials with copyright you don’t own. If you do, you will get disqualified. Make sure to go over the full rules thoroughly before you submit your story.
Click the red button and register for a chance to win the $50K by telling your story.
Featured Events, Contests and Awards
Domain and Web Hosting Webinar
October 27, 2020, Online
Learn the basics of choosing and registering a domain name. We’ll also go over web hosting options so you can decide what’s best for your business.
Small Business Expo 2020 – PHILADELPHIA
October 28, 2020, Philadelphia, PA
Small Business Expo is a FREE one-day event to attend for small businesses to network, attend great business-growth workshops, build new business relationships, exchange ideas, shop from new vendors and learn from leading industry experts. If you are serious about starting or growing your business, Small Business Expo is a “must attend” event. Small Business Expo is the #1 Business to Business Networking Event for business owners, entrepreneurs, start-ups, decision-makers or anyone who works for a small business or is interested in starting a Small Business.
Small Business Big Wins: Share Your Story for a Chance to Win $50,000
October 31, 2020, Online
Barclays US Consumer Bank is asking small business owners to share how the events of 2020 have affected their business. Tell us your story for a chance to win $50,000 and other cash prizes!
Establishing Your Brand Story and Voice Webinar
November 3, 2020, Online
Learn how to find, incorporate, and use your brand’s voice throughout your website to increase website traffic, improve customer engagement, and drive brand loyalty. See how to write an awesome About Us page and use keywords for SEO.
Webinar: Elements of Design and How to Talk with a Designer
November 10, 2020, Online
Join to gain a basic understanding of visual hierarchy, how to use a grid, and how to effectively communicate with a designer. This webinar is a great resource whether you’re making your own website, hiring a web designer, or using a drag-and-drop website builder.
LinkUpConferenceShow
November 12, 2020, Online
LinkUpConferenceShow (LUCS) is a digital networking conference that merges the incredibly dynamic worlds of tech and comedy to provide informative and personalized networking opportunities designed to help executives, entrepreneurs, business leaders and tech professionals grow and scale their businesses. LUCS is the tech conference that combines Silicon Valley insights with New York’s nonstop energy to bring the technology community a totally new virtual experience designed to inspire, engage and entertain.
Zoho Webinar: Converting Visitors to Leads
November 17, 2020, Online
Want to learn how to turn website visitors into leads? Then look no further! We’ll go over CTAs, web forms, and Zoho PageSense so you can see how to optimize your website through iterative testing.
Getting Started with Zoho One
November 24, 2020, Online
A walk through overview of Zoho One using real case studies from Zoho customers to demonstrate different ways Zoho One can support your business. Join us!
DigiMarCon New Zealand 2021 – Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference & Exhibition
August 18, 2021, Auckland, New Zealand
Digital Marketing, Media and Advertising Conference – August 18-19, 2021 – Auckland, New Zealand
More Events
- Miami’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 20, 2020, Online - Small Business Expo 2020 – CHICAGO
October 20, 2020, Chicago, IL - Healthy Minds Innovations to Host Virtual Healthy Minds@Work MasterClass on Mental Health and Stress Reduction
October 20, 2020, Online - Forbes School of Business & Technology Thought Leader Summit and Young Thought Leader Summit
October 20, 2020, Online - Running a Startup in a Down Economy (Webinar with Q&A)
October 21, 2020, Online - Atlanta’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 22, 2020, Atlanta, GA - The New Rules of Influencer Marketing (Panelists from Pinterest, Edeleman, SAP and more)
October 22, 2020, Online - MamaCon 2020– A Virtual Conference for Mamapreneurs
October 23, 2020, Online - Houston’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 24, 2020, Houston, TX - Austin’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 26, 2020, Austin, TX - Claims Innovation USA Virtual Event
October 26, 2020, Online - Virtual Client Attraction Bootcamp
October 26, 2020, Online - AI DevWorld 2020
October 27, 2020, Online - Responsible Business USA 2020
October 27, 2020, Online - World-Famous HR Technology Event, Oct. 2020
October 27, 2020, Online - Salt Lake City’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
October 31, 2020, Austin, TX - Denver’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
November 2, 2020, Denver, CO - San Jose’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
November 5, 2020, San Jose, CA - Oregon and Washington State and Local Tax Update for Real Estate Businesses
November 5, 2020, Online - San Diego’s Largest MBA Event! QS MBA Tour
November 7, 2020, San Diego, CA
More Contests
This weekly listing of small business events, contests and awards is provided as a community service by Small Business Trends.
You can see a full list of events, contest and award listings or post your own events by visiting the Small Business Events Calendar.
Image: smallbizbigwins.com
This article, “Tell Your 2020 Small Business Survival Story and Win $50,000 Cash” was first published on Small Business Trends