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An 8-step marketing action plan for small businesses
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An 8-step marketing action plan for small businesses

The success of a business depends mainly on how the brand is received and perceived by customers. An influential marketing strategy determines the nature and extent of perception and audience reach, especially for small businesses, and hence forms an integral part of its success. The essence of small-business marketing lies in harnessing channels to garner maximum exposure for products or services. Here are some key components and steps for designing an effective marketing action plan. What does a marketing action plan include? Usually, a startup marketing plan includes the following: Brand strategy: This step establishes the company’s identity and stand-out features in the market, which is why it is often considered the foundation of a marketing action plan. Content: Content in different forms, whether digital or print, sets the tone of the company’s offerings, like products or services, and helps to establish the brand image in the market. Advertising: This step allows the content to reach a wider audience by strategically promoting it through various channels. Tips to develop a small business marketing plan Research the market It’s important to research the market one is planning to enter thoroughly. This step involves a SWOT analysis – strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats.
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8 mistakes to avoid while filing tax returns
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8 mistakes to avoid while filing tax returns

The end of the financial year sees people rushing to file income tax returns in adherence to the strict guidelines of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The guidelines are meant to ensure a smooth and quick tax filing process. IRS also offers ample time and information to get the job done. However, one can still make missteps in the return filing process, leading to delays and rejection. So, here are common mistakes to avoid: 1. Filing the returns too early One might enjoy getting work done before deadlines. However, it isn’t the best idea when filing tax returns, as the latest tax forms could be issued later than usual. So, filing tax returns too early could result in one missing out on any vital updates to the process or documentation, which could delay the whole tax refund process. So, one should ensure they have the latest information before filing for returns. 2. Choosing the wrong filing status One of the most common mistakes in filing income tax returns is choosing the incorrect filing status. There are five tax filing statuses to choose from: head of household, married filing jointly, qualified widow(er), married filing separately, and single. The status determines the tax bracket, tax credits, and amount of standard deductions one can claim.
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9 benefits of educational toys for child development
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9 benefits of educational toys for child development

Children are imaginative, curious, and energetic. With never-ending curiosity about the world, they often seek avenues for exploration. There are numerous ways to enhance their overall development, and parents and educators can make learning fun and engaging. Among these approaches, educational toys are one of the most effective ways of improving their cognitive, motor, and social skills. Here are some proven benefits of these toys that contribute to holistic growth and learning: 1. Boosts IQ Educational toys help stimulate the minds of children, make new neurological connections, and gradually increase IQ levels. They are to improve their memory and literacy while making learning enjoyable and engaging. Some games that boost the intelligence quotient include memory cards, board games, and matching games. 2. Enhances sensory development Children use all of their five senses, including touch, smell, taste, hearing, and sight, to explore the world around them. Toys include different textures, colors, and noises, which can help develop these senses. For example, musical instruments for children can develop their auditory perception, while bright-colored toys can enhance their visuals. 3. Improves motor skills Motor skills refer to one’s ability to perform physical movements and effectively coordinate the muscles and limbs to carry out various tasks.
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9 common coupon codes that brands must try
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9 common coupon codes that brands must try

Coupon codes act as virtual keys to unlock  savings and are an integral part of the modern e-commerce ecosystem. A popular part of promotional strategies for online stores, these codes help customers buy their preferred products at a cheaper rate. Although coupon codes are generally intended to be unique, research indicates that many brands use common names. Here are some of the most common ones that (almost) always work for most brands: What is a coupon code? A coupon code is a set of numbers, letters, or symbols that brands often use to provide customers discounts, special offers, promotions, deals, or other incentives during the online shopping experience. It is also known as a discount code or voucher code and is often availed during checkout. A customer first adds their intended purchases to the cart and then enters the code at the checkout page before making a payment, which ensures a reduction in the overall purchase price. There are percentage-based discounts, fixed amount reductions, buy-one-get-one-free offers, free shipping, or exclusive sales and promotions access. These can be made available to the customer through coupon codes, making this a flexible and versatile promotional tool. Where does one usually receive coupon codes?
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Top 6 online meat delivery services
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Top 6 online meat delivery services

Online meat delivery services can be tempting when looking for premium meat with specific cuts and exciting membership rewards. From grass-fed beef to high-quality poultry and seafood, one can get a wide range of meat from these online services. With a list of options available, picking one online store that ticks all boxes can get overwhelming. So, let’s explore some of the best meal delivery services below and see which ones made the cut. Omaha Steaks One of the most popular online meat delivery services, Omaha Steaks, is undoubtedly the go-to online store for all types of meats. Known for their hand-cut, premium meats, they offer a wide range of options, including numerous combination packs. From poultry, beef, and pork to bison, fish, and seafood, one can get every meat and seafood under one umbrella. It stocks plenty of chicken and charcuterie, full meal kits, a la carte side dishes, desserts, and dog treats. Customers can either choose the pre-select products and packages or make a custom selection as per their choice. With a delivery service in all 50 states, Omaha Steaks offers free shipping for orders above $139. With the sales and special deals section, one can also find great discounts on their top sellers.
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9 common mistakes to avoid with a debit card
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9 common mistakes to avoid with a debit card

A swipe for a cup of coffee at one’s favorite cafe and a tap at the mall for a new gadget or movie tickets are just a few benefits of a debit card in addition to withdrawing cash on the go and international usage. However, the card is linked to one’s bank account and could affect finances if misused. So, here are some common mistakes to avoid with a debit card. Not paying attention to the balance An individual who uses their debit card for credit-based transactions may notice it takes a few days for the purchase to show up on the account. If one relies only on the account balance figure when they log into the account online, they may risk transactions getting declined. This may occur when the balance does not reflect the money present in the account in real-time. So, one should keep a close eye on each transaction and make a note of it, if needed regularly, to ensure they are always aware of their bank balance. Transacting at a hotel Many people use their debit cards to pay for the room costs and security deposits. The deposit usually holds an amount on the card to cover unexpected costs or expenses that do not immediately show up on the itemized bill.
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15 unusual questions to ask a gynecologist
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15 unusual questions to ask a gynecologist

Talking in detail about the nuances of each uncomfortable question one might ask a gynecologist can help them better understand their health. For this, effective communication remains paramount. Building trust, educating oneself, preparing questions, expressing discomfort, and understanding the importance of regular check-ups are crucial aspects of fostering an open and productive dialogue with a gynecologist. By approaching appointments proactively, women can ensure they receive the care and information they need for their overall well-being. Are my intimate hygiene practices keeping me healthy? Intimate hygiene is more than just a hygiene routine; it’s about understanding what products and practices are suitable for maintaining optimal intimate health. A gynecologist can provide detailed insights into the right cleansers, the frequency of cleansing, and how personal habits may impact intimate well-being. Individuals can make informed decisions that contribute to their overall health and comfort by delving into these specifics. It is, therefore, essential to initiate the conversation about hygiene practices, even if it seems uncomfortable. How can I improve my sexual health? Beyond the basics, this question encourages women to delve into the intricacies of sexual health. Discussions may include concerns about libido fluctuations, the intricacies of safe sex practices, and a detailed exploration of contraceptive methods.
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The complete guide to collecting and managing sports memorabilia
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The complete guide to collecting and managing sports memorabilia

Every sports enthusiast dreams of immortalizing a historical or iconic game in more than just their memories. One way to do this is by possessing certain souvenirs or collectibles associated with that particular game or player – these collectibles are called sports memorabilia. Collecting sports memorabilia has been a popular activity for sports enthusiasts for years. For those new to the world of sports memorabilia, here is a brief guide to collecting them. Sports memorabilia Sports memorabilia are cherished artifacts that hold a special place in the hearts of sports lovers. These items, often associated with iconic moments and legendary athletes, serve as tangible links to the world of sports. Sports memorabilia can be any item associated with a game, ranging from autographed baseballs to historic game tickets. Whatever the object may be, if it captures and contains the spirit and excitement of athletic achievements, it counts as a valuable piece of sports history. Factors that determine the value of different sports memorabilia To start collecting, trading, or selling sports memorabilia, it is necessary to understand the factors that determine the value of such items and contribute to their overall significance and desirability. Authenticity One of the most important factors contributing to the value of sports memorabilia is their authenticity.
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7 mistakes to avoid with life insurance
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7 mistakes to avoid with life insurance

One may consider buying life insurance for several reasons, be it due to a recent marriage, a newborn baby, or a large debt like a house mortgage. Life insurance can help loved ones tide over financial constraints if something happens to the insured individual. So, it is crucial to sign up for a plan that will give the best value for one’s money. In addition, one must avoid some common mistakes when buying life insurance. Waiting too long to buy the insurance An important factor that one needs to consider while buying life insurance is to know the coverage amount that one needs as well as the overall cost or premium of the insurance. In general, the life insurance premium depends on multiple factors including the overall health and age of the insured person. As one ages, the life insurance premium amount increases. Moreover, in case there are serious health problems or illnesses, one may become ineligible to apply for any coverage. Therefore, never wait around for too long to buy life insurance. Purchasing it earlier means one can get it at the lowest prices. Purchasing the cheapest life insurance policy It makes sense to buy an insurance policy that is affordable.
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5 mistakes new hearing aid users should avoid
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5 mistakes new hearing aid users should avoid

Hearing aids can be effective in improving quality of life as well as communication capabilities. However, it may take some time to get used to them. In addition to learning how to make the most of the tool, new hearing aid users may have to make several adjustments and avoid common mistakes to get the best results. So, here are some of the common blunders that first-time hearing aid users should avoid: 1. Not checking the instructions A common mistake that many new owners of hearing aids make is using the device straight out of the box without learning how to use it. Here, it is important to take some time to go through all the basics to learn how the aids work and use key features that increase ease of use. But if one just switches it on and starts wearing the hearing aids, they might not be able to utilize the device completely. For instance, one may miss out on some of the handy features, such as noise filters and Bluetooth connectivity. So, it is important that one reads the manual first and figure out the best ways to improve sound quality. In addition, one can experiment with the device settings to find the best way to improve the sound.
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A Look at the 5 Models of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Series
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A Look at the 5 Models of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Series

Around five years ago, Samsung launched its first foldable smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold. Over time, the Fold Series has expanded to include four more devices, the latest being the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, launched earlier this year. These foldable phones have pushed the boundaries of technology and design and are considered the future of smartphones. Here’s a quick look at the different Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Series models. 1. Galaxy Z Fold Launched in 2019, Samsung’s first foldable phone was the tablet-sized Galaxy Fold. This device did not have an ideal beginning, as the initial batch sent to reviewers malfunctioned within days of use. Consequently, the brand recalled them, delaying the product’s official launch. In September that year, the Galaxy Z Fold was finally launched for $1,980. The 7.3-inch inner AMOLED display of the Galaxy Fold can be folded in a book style. It features a 4.6-inch secondary display, Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 855 processor, three rear cameras (12 MP wide-angle, 12 MP telephoto, and 16 MP ultra-wide), and two front cameras (10 MP selfie and 8 MP depth). The Galaxy Z Fold has 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. 2. Galaxy Z Fold2 In September 2020, Samsung upgraded the series with the Galaxy Z Fold2, which was more robust and had a refined design. The device has a larger 7.6-inch foldable screen, a bezel-less 6.2-inch cover panel, a higher refresh rate of 120 Hz, a new Snapdragon 865 processor, a 4400 mAh battery, and improved cameras compared to the original Fold. Flex Mode is a talking point of the Fold2, which provides better functionality and serves as a tripod for hands-free selfies or video calls. Samsung also adopted a UWB chip for the first time in this foldable smartphone. 3. Galaxy Z Fold3 The Galaxy Z Fold3 was unveiled in August 2021 as the third generation of Samsung’s folding phones.
6 exciting offers on the iPhone 14 Pro series
smartphones

6 exciting offers on the iPhone 14 Pro series

The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are Apple’s most technologically advanced Pro lineup. These phones have been launched with exciting new features like Dynamic Island and an Always-On display, which create an immersive user experience. They are powered by the A16 Bionic chip, which is the fastest chip available on the market. Additionally, the phones have cutting-edge features that are perfect for managing everyday tasks and creative projects. These Apple models come in different storage options and color variants. The prices of the phones depend on the storage option chosen.  Let’s explore the various offers provided by different service providers. Pricing and availability The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max are available in different storage options. The starting price for the iPhone 14 Pro is $999, which includes 128GB of storage. The starting price for the iPhone 14 Pro Max is $1,099, also with 128GB of storage. The price increases as one chooses higher storage options. One can purchase these models from the online Apple Store, offline stores, and third-party sellers. Deals on the iPhone 14 Pro 1. AT&T Limitless Plan AT&T is also providing the best trade-in savings of up to $1,000, which matches the carrier’s best deal to date. Even though this specific deal doesn’t include any bonuses or extras, customers will find one of the greatest offers at AT&T. The trade-in rebate for the basic iPhone 14 is set at a maximum save of $700, so if AT&T is the preferred carrier, we strongly advise getting the Pro model. 2. Walmart (with $100 off carrier devices) Walmart is providing a great deal on carrier smartphones. A $100 price reduction for monthly payments over 36 months is accessible for AT&T and Verizon users. This could be an attractive option for those who don’t want to trade in a previous model for a lower price at one of the leading carriers.  3.
Top 8 Features of the iPhone 15
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Top 8 Features of the iPhone 15

Apple has unveiled the iPhone 15 and its equally terrific counterparts – the iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. By now, users must have played around with several new features, especially those on iOS 17, such as the Standby Mode or NameDrop. But other exciting features and specifications added this year need a mention. Here are some specifications to get the most out of the iPhone 15’s brilliance. Performance The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are powered by the same A16 Bionic processor found in the iPhone 14 Pro series. One can witness a similar level of performance as last year’s high-end phones. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max come with Apple’s latest A17 Pro processor. According to Apple, this new processor is “10 percent faster” in terms of CPU and “20 percent faster” in terms of GPU (graphics) compared to the A16 Bionic processor. Apple has emphasized the smoother graphics and gaming performance of the iPhone 15 Pro models, thanks to the A17 Pro processor’s hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This technology allows for impressive lighting effects in games. Design All iPhone 15 models have received the latest design that features softer contoured edges compared to the sharper one on the iPhone 14. There is a titanium frame with brushed metal that looks shiny and polished on the Pro and Pro Max variants. Moreover, these models also feature thinner bezels, giving a premium look. Colors The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus come in five color options, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and black. Another key feature to look out for is Apple’s new color-infused back glass with a frosted matte texture. Camera Apple has significantly upgraded the cameras on its latest iPhone 15 lineup. The primary cameras on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus have been increased from 12 megapixels (MP) to 48MP.