The Problem with Touchscreens

Touchscreens were once the epitome of innovation, but their limitations have become glaringly apparent. They require our full attention, which can be dangerous, especially in cars. The European automotive safety body has even declared that vehicles must have physical switches and buttons to receive its highest safety rating. This is a clear indication that the tide is turning against touchscreens in critical applications.

The Benefits of Physical Controls

Physical controls offer a range of benefits that touchscreens cannot match. They engage our sense of touch and spatial awareness, known as proprioception, allowing us to interact with devices without needing to look at them. This is particularly important in vehicles, where drivers need to keep their eyes on the road. Companies like BMW Mini are leading the way by incorporating physical controls and customizable head-up displays in their vehicles.

The Shift in Design Philosophy

The return of buttons is not just about utility; it's also a vibe shift. Physical controls are now seen as a sign of thoughtfulness and exclusivity, whereas touchscreens are becoming tacky and overused. Apple, the company that popularized touchscreens with the iPhone, is now adding buttons back to its devices, including the iPhone 16 with its new "action button".

The Future of Interaction

The resurgence of buttons is not a step backward; it's a leap forward in design thinking. By combining physical controls with touch features, companies are creating more intuitive and enjoyable user experiences. For example, the Playdate portable video-game system uses a hand crank and physical buttons to introduce new game mechanics that would be impossible on touchscreens alone.

What's Next for the Return of Buttons Trend

The return of buttons is a significant trend that's changing the way we interact with technology. By embracing physical controls, companies are creating safer, more intuitive, and more enjoyable user experiences. As we move forward, it's clear that the return of buttons is not just a nostalgic throwback but a bold step into the future of tech

P.S. The following graph is measuring things that have more than 2 physical buttons on all electronic devices. This includes cars to appliances. This counts the flat buttons as well that use touchscreen tech as well.

The Veto of the AI Safety Bill: Sets the Course For AI Regulation

On September 29, 2024, Governor Newsom vetoed the AI Safety Bill, citing concerns that the legislation would impose overly stringent regulations on low-risk AI applications, potentially stifling innovation. The bill, designed to establish rigorous safety standards for creators of cutting-edge AI models, aimed to prevent catastrophic risks associated with AI deployment. The bill would have enforced heavy regulations meant for the most large and expensive models on all AI models. This would have strangled AI innovation, increasing the cost significantly to develop the smallest of AI models.

Implications for AI Development and Public Safety

The veto has significant implications for AI development and public safety. Without enforceable regulations, companies developing powerful AI models are left largely unmonitored, leading to a "concerning reality" for the public and policymakers. Senator Scott Wiener, who sponsored the bill, expressed disappointment, stating that the veto is a "missed opportunity" for California to lead on innovative tech regulation.

Expert Reactions and Future Directions of AI Regulation

Experts and industry leaders have weighed in on the veto, emphasizing the need for flexible regulations that differentiate between low- and high-risk AI applications. Governor Newsom has committed to formulating legislation that imposes guardrails on AI, working with academic luminaries and private businesses. The veto has also sparked a broader conversation about the complexities of AI regulation and the need for a balanced approach that protects the public without stifling innovation.

New Legislative AI Measures

Despite the veto, Newsom signed several significant bills:

• AB 1008: Clarifies that personal information under the CCPA includes data stored by AI systems.

• AB 1831: Expands child pornography statutes to include AI-generated content.

• AB 2013: Requires AI developers to disclose data used for training on their websites.

• AB 2355: Mandates disclosures in political ads altered by AI.

• SB 942: Requires GenAI developers to include provenance disclosures

These measures aim to protect privacy, combat misinformation, and ensure transparency in AI deployment.

The Future of AI Regulation in the United States

The veto of California's AI Safety Bill marks a pivotal moment in the debate over AI regulation in the US. As the tech industry continues to evolve, it is crucial that policymakers, industry leaders, and experts work together to develop effective and adaptable regulations that ensure public safety while fostering innovation.

If you've been on social media lately, you've probably seen a post circulating that claims to protect your personal data and photos from being used by Meta AI. The post, which has been shared extensively across Instagram and Facebook, reads:

"Goodbye Meta AI. Please note an attorney has advised us to put this on, failure to do so may result in legal consequences. As Meta is now a public entity all members must post a similar statement. If you do not post at least once it will be assumed you are okay with them using your information and photos. I do not give Meta or anyone else permission to use any of my personal data, profile information or photos."

But here's the thing: this post is a hoax. Sharing it won't provide any legal protection against Meta using your personal data for AI training. In fact, it's just a clever way for scammers to spread misinformation and potentially phish for your personal info.

So, what's really going on here?

It's no secret that social media companies like Meta collect and use our personal data to train their AI algorithms. But sharing a post like this won't stop them from doing so. Instead, it's just a way for scammers to take advantage of people's concerns about online privacy.

How to protect yourself from social media scams

So, what can you do to protect yourself from scams like this? Here are a few tips:

• Verify information before sharing it. If a post seems too good (or bad) to be true, it probably is. Take a minute to fact-check it before sharing it with your friends and family.

• Be cautious of posts that use urgent language. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly. Legitimate companies usually communicate in a clear and professional manner.

• Check for grammar and spelling errors**. Scams often contain mistakes that can be a red flag.

The impact of scams like Goodbye Meta AI

Scams like the "Goodbye Meta AI" post can have serious consequences. They can lead to phishing attempts, where scammers try to steal your personal info or login credentials. They can also spread misinformation, causing unnecessary panic and confusion. And, of course, they can damage the reputation of companies like Meta AI.

Goodbye Meta AI is just another example of misinformation

The "Goodbye Meta AI" post is just one example of how scams can spread quickly on social media. By being aware of the tactics used by scammers and taking steps to verify information, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to these deceptive strategies.

What you can do about the "Goodbye Meta AI" Scam

If you've already shared the post, don't worry. Just delete it and move on. And if you see it popping up in your feed again, take a minute to fact-check the scam in that post comments to help people be informed. By being vigilant and cautious, we can all help create a safer online environment.

The Growing Trend of High-Income Renters

Recent data reveals a significant increase in the number of wealthy individuals opting for rental properties. Between 2018 and 2022, the percentage of households earning over $750,000 annually that chose to rent jumped to 10.5%. This marks the highest level since the mid-2000s, indicating a notable shift in housing preferences among the affluent.Even more striking is the trend among the highest earners.

This surge in high-income renters represents a paradigm shift in how wealth and real estate intersect in today's economy.

Why Are High-Income Earners Choosing to Rent?

Several factors contribute to the growing preference for renting among high-income individuals:

1. Financial Flexibility: Renting allows wealthy individuals to keep their capital liquid for other investments. Instead of tying up substantial funds in real estate, high-income renters can diversify their portfolios and pursue potentially more lucrative opportunities.

   
   

2. Career Mobility: In today's fast-paced business world, the ability to relocate quickly for career advancement is crucial. Renting offers the flexibility to move without the complications of selling a property, making it an attractive option for ambitious professionals.

   
   

3. Market Uncertainty: With real estate markets experiencing volatility, some high-income earners are choosing to rent to avoid potential market risks. This strategy allows them to sidestep concerns about property value fluctuations and market downturns.

   
   

The Impact on the Luxury Rental Market

The influx of high-income renters is transforming the luxury rental sector:

• High-End Rentals on the Rise: There's been a notable increase in rentals priced at $20,000 or more per month, catering to this affluent demographic.

  
  

• "Forever Renter" Properties: Developers are creating luxury rental properties with high-end amenities specifically designed for long-term, wealthy tenants.

  
  

Implications for Young Professionals

This trend of high-income renters offers valuable insights for emerging business leaders and young professionals:

• Asset Allocation Strategy: Consider how renting might allow for more diverse investment opportunities.

  
  

• Career Flexibility: Evaluate how housing choices can impact your ability to pursue career opportunities in different locations.

  
  

• Risk Management: Assess the potential benefits of avoiding real estate market risks through renting.

  
  

Is buying a home still the best way to build generational wealth?

The rise of high-income renters represents a significant shift in the real estate landscape. As more wealthy individuals opt for the flexibility and financial advantages of renting, it's clear that traditional assumptions about homeownership and wealth are evolving.

For young professionals and business leaders, understanding this trend can inform better decisions about housing, investments, and career strategy in the years to come. By staying informed about these changing dynamics, you can position yourself to make smarter choices in both your personal and professional life. Keep an eye on this trend of high-income renters - it may just reshape your perspective on real estate and wealth building.

Percentage change or renters in each income bracket from 2017-2022.

Air travel can be frustrating, especially when faced with long delays. But there's potentially good news on the horizon for US passengers. The Biden Administration is working on a groundbreaking rule that could revolutionize how airlines handle flight disruptions.

The Proposed Rule: A Win for Passengers

The White House is developing a regulation that would require major US airlines to compensate passengers for significant flight delays and cancellations. This rule could take effect as early as January 2025.

What's Covered?

Under the proposed rule, airlines would be required to provide compensation for:

- Controllable cancellations

- Delays of three hours or more

The compensation would include a set cash amount for each passenger on a disrupted flight, as well as coverage for meals and lodging.

Why Now?

This move comes in response to a surge in passenger complaints. In fact, complaints against US airlines have quadrupled in the last four years, reaching a record high of over 96,000 in 2023. The administration's goal is clear: incentivize airlines to provide better service.

How Does This Compare Globally?

Interestingly, the US is relatively late to the game. Similar compensation schemes have existed for about 20 years in regions like the European Union, where passengers can receive up to €600 (about $641) for long delays.

Current Airline Policies

As it stands, major US airlines have varying policies for handling delays:

- All 10 major airlines will rebook passengers on the same airline and provide meals

- 9 out of 10 will provide hotels and ground transportation

- 6 will rebook passengers on another airline

- 3 in 10 will provide a voucher

- None currently pay cash for cancellations or delays

What This Means for You

While the exact compensation amounts are still being determined, this rule could significantly change your air travel experience. It's part of a broader effort by the Biden Administration to protect travelers and hold US airlines more accountable.

Stay tuned for more developments on this potential air travel revolution. As we move closer to 2025, keep an eye out for updates that could make your future flights a little less stressful and potentially more rewarding when things go wrong.

Citations:

[1] https://apnews.com/article/airlines-complaints-transportation-department-7c6ddcec4ebadd4d7222350f6513e6be

[2] https://www.airhelp.com/en/flight-delay-compensation/

[3] https://claimflights.com/flight-delay-compensation-email/

[4] https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2024/7/5/passengers-to-us-government-air-travel-is-getting-worse

[5] https://www.lufthansa.com/us/en/passenger-rights

[6] https://www.bts.gov/newsroom/air-travel-consumer-report-june-2024-numbers

[7] https://onemileatatime.com/guides/american-airlines-delay-compensation/

[8] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-09-10/us-airlines-face-new-flight-delay-compensation-rules-in-2025

This experience got me thinking about the future of digital payments and how restrictive payment systems can be.

Imagine a reality where you can only pay with certain cards on specific apps, leaving you scrambling when you’re out and about. Unfortunately, this could become the norm as the battle over digital wallets heats up.

The Changing Landscape of Tap-to-Pay

Recent developments in the tech world indicate that we might be on the brink of a significant shift in how we handle payments. The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of monopolizing the digital wallet market through its exclusive control over the NFC chip in iPhones.

Currently, Apple Pay is the only tap-to-pay option available, which limits competition and innovation in the payment space.

With the upcoming iOS 18.1 update, Apple has announced that third-party developers will finally gain access to the NFC technology, allowing them to create their own tap-to-pay apps. This change could lead to a more diverse ecosystem of payment options, giving consumers the freedom to choose how they pay.

However, it also raises concerns about fragmentation, as companies may pull their cards from Apple Pay to promote their own apps, potentially complicating the payment process for users. Think about how complicated it is to find your favorite show or watch your favorite team play with all the streaming apps.

What Does The Update to Apple Pay coming to iPhone on iOS 18.1 Mean for Consumers?

As we move towards a future where multiple wallet apps may coexist, it’s crucial to consider the implications. While more choices can be beneficial, they can also lead to confusion and inconvenience. Just like my experience at Walmart, consumers may find themselves in situations where they cannot pay because they don’t have the right app or card linked.

The antitrust lawsuit against Apple is a pivotal moment that could redefine the payment landscape.

If successful, it could empower consumers with more options, but it also risks creating a fragmented system where users must navigate different apps and payment methods for various retailers.

Does This Forced Update to iPhones Help the Consumer, or Make Tap-to-Pay More Complicated?

As we stand on the cusp of this digital payment revolution, it’s essential to stay informed about the changes coming our way. Will we embrace a future of diverse payment options, or will we find ourselves in a chaotic landscape where convenience is sacrificed for competition? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the way we pay is about to change dramatically.

What are your thoughts on this update to Apple Pay in iOS 18.1? Are you excited about the potential for more options, or do you prefer the simplicity of a single payment app?

Why This Matters for AI

Many AI models, including popular generative AI systems, are trained on vast amounts of data, including books and other copyrighted materials. Often, this training occurs without explicit permission or compensation to the original authors and publishers.

The ruling against the Internet Archive's digital lending program raises critical questions:

1. Will AI companies now need to purchase rights for every book used in training?

2. How will this impact the cost and pace of AI innovation?

3. Could this stifle the rapid progress we've seen in generative AI?

The Internet Archive Case: Generative AI vs Copyright Laws

The Internet Archive, a nonprofit organization dedicated to universal access to knowledge, operated its Open Library program by digitally lending out books it physically owned. Users could borrow these digital copies for free, adhering to the same rules as a physical library.

However, the court has now deemed this practice illegal, citing copyright infringement. This decision could set a precedent that affects how AI companies access and use training data.

Potential Consequences for AI Development

If AI models are required to obtain explicit permission and potentially pay for every piece of copyrighted material used in training, we could see:

- Significantly increased costs for AI development

- Slower innovation in the field of artificial intelligence

- A shift in how AI companies source and use training data

The Bigger Picture AI vs Intellectual Property Rights

This ruling highlights the ongoing tension between technological innovation and intellectual property rights. As AI continues to advance, we're likely to see more legal challenges and debates surrounding the use of copyrighted materials in machine learning.

What's Next for Generative AI?

The tech industry is closely watching how this ruling will be interpreted and applied. It could potentially lead to:

- New licensing models for using copyrighted materials in AI training

- Increased collaboration between AI companies and content creators

- A reevaluation of fair use in the context of machine learning

Your Thoughts Matter

As we navigate this complex intersection of technology, law, and innovation, your perspective is crucial. What do you think about this ruling? How might it impact the future of AI development?

Share your thoughts by posting this on your favorite social media platform with your thoughts!

Stay informed on this evolving story – it could shape the future of AI and how we interact with technology in our daily lives.

Recently, I embarked on an experiment: I sent over 100 sales messages on LinkedIn in a single month. The results were enlightening—1 client landed, 30 rejections, 64 no responses, and 5 phone calls.

This experience underscored a crucial lesson in brand strategy: the power of organic content.

The Power of Organic Social Media Content

Building trust with high-value customers takes time and effort. Organic social media content, along with free blogs and podcasts, plays a pivotal role in this process.

By consistently providing valuable content, you establish a foundation of trust and credibility. Over time, those who engage with your page, blog, or podcast are more likely to become loyal customers.

The Impact of Content on Engagement

When you reach out to potential clients, they often review your profile. If they find consistent, high-quality content that resonates with them, they are more inclined to respond positively.

Last month, several people mentioned they replied to my messages because they appreciated the content I shared.

Building a Strong Brand Strategy

Organic social media serves as the bedrock for improving conversion rates in ads and direct outreach efforts, such as email and LinkedIn messages. By focusing on delivering consistent value, you can enhance your brand strategy and attract more high-end clients.

Organic Social Media is Not Dead

To attract high-value customers, prioritize creating and sharing valuable content. This approach not only builds trust but also lays the groundwork for successful customer acquisition.

Organic content is not just an add-on; it’s a fundamental component of an effective brand strategy.

By integrating these tactics into your LinkedIn approach, you can effectively get more customers and build lasting relationships with high-end clients.

As these systems have become more prevalent, so too have the complaints from customers who find them cumbersome and inefficient for large grocery runs. This dissatisfaction has reached a point where California is proposing legislation to limit the number of self-checkout stations a single employee can oversee, highlighting the need for businesses to listen to their customers.

The Self-Checkout Frustration

For those tackling a large weekly grocery haul, self-checkout can be a nightmare. Limited space for scanning and bagging items, coupled with the frequent absence of barcode tags on produce, makes the process tedious. When assistance is needed, there are often only one or two employees available, who are usually busy with in-person checkouts. This leaves self-checkout users waiting for help, exacerbating the frustration.

A Decade of Growing Pains

Over the past decade, major grocery chains have increasingly relied on self-checkout systems without making significant improvements. This has led to a growing disconnect between what customers want and what businesses provide. As a result, California's proposed bill aims to address these issues by ensuring that self-checkout stations are adequately staffed, reflecting the frustrations of shoppers who feel ignored by businesses prioritizing cost-cutting over customer experience.

Rethinking Automation and AI

The reliance on automation and AI in grocery stores is a double-edged sword. While these technologies can enhance efficiency, they should not come at the expense of customer satisfaction or employee workloads. Instead of using AI to replace employees, businesses should focus on how it can boost overall capacity and improve the shopping experience. Transitioning employees to new roles that complement AI can lead to a more efficient and customer-friendly environment.

A Call for Change

California's legislative action serves as a wake-up call for businesses to reevaluate their approach to customer service. By listening to customer feedback and adapting their strategies, grocery stores can enhance the shopping experience and potentially attract high-value customers who appreciate a seamless and efficient checkout process. This shift in mindset could lead to a win-win situation for both businesses and consumers, fostering loyalty and satisfaction.

In conclusion, the proposed California bill is a clear indication that customer frustrations with self-checkout systems have reached a tipping point. By prioritizing customer experience and leveraging AI responsibly, grocery stores can not only address these concerns but also position themselves as leaders in customer satisfaction.

This change is highlighted by U.S. Representative Maxine Waters, a key figure in financial regulation, who has recently expressed a pro-crypto agenda. Known for her cautious approach, Waters now prioritizes fostering innovation in cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence, especially if Democrats regain control of the House.

Why This Shift in U.S. Crypto Policy Matters

The move towards a pro-crypto stance could have profound implications for the U.S. economy:

Economic Growth

A supportive regulatory environment can stimulate the growth of the cryptocurrency market, fostering innovation and economic expansion.

Financial Inclusion

Cryptocurrencies offer decentralized financial tools that empower marginalized communities, providing new opportunities for wealth-building and financial sovereignty.

Global Competitiveness

By embracing these technologies, the U.S. can maintain its competitive edge in the global digital economy.

Empowering Marginalized Communities

Cryptocurrencies have the potential to transform financial landscapes, particularly for communities historically marginalized by traditional financial systems.

By offering decentralized alternatives, cryptocurrencies can bypass traditional gatekeepers, providing greater access to financial tools and opportunities for economic empowerment. This is especially significant for Black and Latino communities that have faced systemic barriers to wealth-building.

A Collaborative Future

Waters' shift suggests a more collaborative relationship between regulators and the cryptocurrency industry.

This could lead to the creation of clearer regulatory guidelines, providing the industry with the certainty it needs to innovate and grow within the U.S. Such a framework would ensure that the U.S. remains at the forefront of technological innovation and economic growth, solidifying its role as a leader in the Web3 economy.

Looking Ahead

As the U.S. government embraces these technologies, the potential benefits are profound: promoting economic inclusion, empowering consumers, and enhancing the nation's position in the digital economy.

This shift marks a significant departure from previous skepticism and suggests that cryptocurrencies are here to stay. Policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders will be closely watching how this evolution unfolds and what it means for the future of crypto assets and blockchain technology in America.

This shift has major implications for how you get more customers and, more importantly, get high-value customers and clients. Your website needs to be designed for phones first, not as an afterthought.

Many websites are still stuck in the desktop era, leading to a frustrating mobile experience that drives potential customers away. Remember, people want to find what they need and buy it quickly. A clunky mobile experience will cost you sales and damage your brand reputation.

How to Make Your Mobile Website Shine and Attract High-Value Customers:

• Cut the fluff: Less text, more impact. Mobile users have short attention spans.

• Prioritize visibility: Make your products or services easy to find. Don't make people hunt.

• Streamline the buying process: Short forms, easy checkout. Remove any friction.

The average purchase on mobile is 32% smaller than on computers. People trust mobile websites less. This represents a huge opportunity for businesses who want to get high-value clients by building trust through a seamless mobile experience.

Gen-Z is growing in buying power and influence, and they're mobile-first. A great mobile experience is no longer a luxury; it's vital for any business to succeed and attract the next generation of high-value customers.

Prioritize mobile optimization to get more customers, get high-value customers, and get high-value clients in today's fast-paced digital landscape.

Grok-2: The AI That Breaks the Rules

The world of artificial intelligence is evolving at a breakneck pace, and with each new advancement, we're forced to confront challenging ethical questions. Elon Musk's latest venture, Grok-2, an AI model with unprecedented image generation capabilities, is a prime example of this. The AI's ability to create hyper-realistic and even controversial images has ignited a debate about the role of tech companies in regulating AI and the potential consequences of unfettered AI use.

The Power and Controversy of Grok-2

Grok-2 is not just another AI model; it's a technological marvel that's pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Unlike its more cautious counterparts, Grok-2 generates hyper-realistic images without the usual ethical guardrails. It can produce images that are both awe-inspiring and deeply unsettling, blurring the lines between reality and fiction in ways we've never seen before.

This unrestrained power has raised serious concerns. In an era where misinformation and deepfakes are already rampant, Grok-2's ability to create convincing yet false images could have far-reaching consequences. It raises the question: should tech companies act as moral gatekeepers, or should users have the freedom to use AI however they see fit, even if it leads to misuse?

The OpenAI Story: A Microcosm of the AI Ethics Debate

The internal turmoil at OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, mirrors the broader ethical dilemmas surrounding AI. Founded with the noble mission of ensuring AI benefits all of humanity, OpenAI initially prioritized safety over profit. However, the financial realities of developing cutting-edge AI forced them to compromise, leading to internal divisions and concerns about the company's direction.

The release of ChatGPT further intensified these tensions. The chatbot's immense popularity and potential for misuse highlighted the challenges of balancing innovation with responsibility. The recent brief ousting and subsequent reinstatement of OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, underscores the complexities of navigating the AI landscape.

The Big Question: Who's Responsible?

The story of Grok-2 and OpenAI brings us to a crucial question: who should be responsible for ensuring AI is used ethically? Should tech companies act as moral gatekeepers, implementing strict controls and limitations on their AI models? Or should users have the freedom to explore AI's full potential, even if it means some will inevitably misuse it?

There's no easy answer. On the one hand, unchecked AI development could lead to disastrous consequences, from the spread of misinformation to the creation of autonomous weapons. On the other hand, excessive restrictions could stifle innovation and limit AI's potential to solve some of humanity's most pressing problems.

The Path Forward

The future of AI is being shaped right now. It's a story of technological marvels, ethical dilemmas, and the delicate balance between progress and responsibility. As we move forward, it's crucial that we engage in open and honest conversations about the implications of AI. We need to develop robust regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation while safeguarding against potential harms. And most importantly, we need to foster a culture of responsible AI use, where individuals and organizations understand the power of this technology and use it for the betterment of society.

The story of Grok-2 is a stark reminder that AI is not just a tool; it's a force that has the potential to reshape our world in profound ways. It's up to us to ensure that this reshaping is a positive one.

 Sources and related content

As AI-powered tools become more integrated into search and e-commerce, businesses need to adapt their marketing and SEO strategies to thrive in this new environment.

Content is Still King, but with an AI Twist

High-quality, relevant content remains crucial, but with LLMs, it's not just about keywords anymore. It's about understanding how these models process and interpret information. SearchGPT is designed to provide accurate and compelling responses to customer queries, and businesses need to align their content strategy accordingly.

Embrace the Power of the Prompt for SearchGPT

Think of your product descriptions and information pages as prompts for SearchGPT. Carefully crafted text sequences, strategically placed within your content, can influence how LLMs rank and recommend your products. This is where the concept of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) becomes critical.

Key Strategies for AI Search Success

• Strategic Content Optimization: Understand the LLM's "thought process" (discussed in last paragraph) and tailor your content to resonate with it.

• Structured Information: Present your product information in a clear, concise, and well-organized manner to make it easily understandable for SearchGPT.

• Authority and Credibility: Incorporate citations, quotations, and statistics from reputable sources to enhance your content's trustworthiness.

• User-Centric Approach: Never lose sight of the user experience. Provide valuable and relevant information that genuinely benefits your audience.

  
  

The Future is Now

The integration of LLMs into search and e-commerce is already happening, and SearchGPT is poised to revolutionize how customers search for products. Businesses that adapt their strategies to leverage these powerful tools will gain a significant competitive advantage.

It's not just about visibility; it's about building trust, delivering value, and creating meaningful connections with your audience in this new AI-driven landscape. 

Embrace the power of SearchGPT and position your business for success in the future of search and e-commerce.

The winds of change are blowing through the consumer landscape. Gen Z and Alpha, the rising generations of consumers, are challenging the traditional norms of spending. 

The era of mindless consumption and overspending is fading, making way for a new movement known as the “underconsumption core.” This shift is not simply about spending less; it's about spending smarter, valuing quality over quantity, and making mindful choices that align with personal values.

Conscious Consumption: The Driving Force

The underconsumption core reflects a growing awareness of the impact of our choices on the environment and society. 

Gen Z and Alpha are more likely to support brands that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and social responsibility. They seek products and services that provide genuine value, promote longevity, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

How Brands Can Connect with the Conscious Consumer

In this evolving landscape, businesses need to adapt to connect with these conscious consumers. 

It's no longer enough to simply offer a cool product or a trendy social media page. Brands need to demonstrate how their products and services contribute to a better world and provide lasting value.

Showcase Sustainability: Green is the New Black

Highlighting sustainability is crucial in today's market. Showcasing how your products or services promote longevity, reduce waste, and support eco-friendly practices can resonate strongly with Gen Z and Alpha consumers. Let them see how your brand is contributing to a healthier planet.

Celebrate Mindful Spending: It's Not Just About the Sale

Move beyond the traditional focus on sales and discounts. Share stories of how your brand encourages mindful spending and helps customers make informed choices. Highlight the value proposition of your products, emphasizing their quality, durability, and long-term benefits.

Foster Authentic Connections: Build Trust and Loyalty

Authenticity is key in building trust and loyalty with the underconsumption core. Be transparent about your practices, values, and impact. Engage in meaningful conversations with your audience, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to their needs and concerns.

The Underconsumption Core: A Call to Action for Brands

The underconsumption core is a significant shift in consumer behavior that presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. By understanding the values and priorities of Gen Z and Alpha, brands can adapt their strategies to connect with this conscious consumer base.

 It's not just about selling a product; it's about offering a solution, fostering a connection, and contributing to a better world. 

By showcasing sustainability, celebrating mindful spending, and fostering authentic connections, your brand can thrive in the era of the underconsumption core.

Before you go firing all of your marketing team to replace them with AI there are some things to consider! While AI can rapidly generate content, it often lacks the unique context, voice, and authenticity that truly engages audiences.

Tools like Loomly and Hootsuite have integrated AI to assist with caption creation, making it easier for those less comfortable with writing. However, the most successful social media posts today are personal and authentic, offering a glimpse into someone's life or business. This trend highlights the importance of storytelling and genuine connection over highly produced, generic content.

The Shift Towards Authenticity

The oversaturation of content has made professional-looking posts commonplace. As a result, the most engaging content is often lightly edited and focuses on authenticity. People crave real-world stories and are tired of being told how to live their lives by those with little real-world experience.

Personally, I've noticed this shift and am adapting my approach. As a marketer with four years of experience, I've had my share of failures and successes. I've realized that people want to see the real-life struggles and triumphs behind the scenes, not just the polished final product. That's why I'm trying to get better at documenting my journey and sharing the stories of successful businesses and individuals, focusing on their real-world marketing strategies and what set them apart.

AI's Impact on Marketing Jobs

AI will likely replace marketers who lack creativity and rely on regurgitating existing content. Marketing agencies with cookie-cutter approaches will also struggle to compete. However, marketers who can leverage AI for research and analysis, while still bringing creativity and unique storytelling to the table, will thrive.

In-house marketers with a knack for communication and storytelling, even without formal marketing experience, can use AI to create content that outperforms "professional" marketers. The key is to be willing to research, understand the company and industry, and adapt to create content that resonates with the target audience.

Using AI Effectively

The best use of AI in content creation is for research and analysis. It excels at identifying patterns in data and finding successful content trends. However, it struggles with more specific questions that require nuanced understanding.

The best way to create content with the help of AI is to give AI content that you have posted and tell it to create more post based on this post. Even better, give AI a blog or podcast transcript and tell it to create social media post from it. If you want to focus on a certain topic discussed in the blog or podcast, tell the AI that in the prompt.

The Future of Marketing

In the age of AI, ideas, creativity, and uniqueness are what will set brands apart. Generic posts created with simple AI prompts won't achieve the desired results. Businesses should expect more from their marketers, demanding unique content that tells a compelling story. Treat social media posts like TV episodes, each one revealing something new or reinforcing the brand's identity.

My Adaptation

To stay ahead of the curve, I'm focusing on honing my storytelling skills, using AI as a tool to enhance my research and analysis, and constantly learning new ways to connect with audiences authentically. I believe that by embracing both AI and human creativity, marketers can create truly engaging content that resonates with people on a deeper level.

Businesses who fail to tell their story and be personal will lose big time to those who take the time and tell their story.

One of the major ways in which they did this is having influencers market their products. However, most companies give influencers a script which they must read. Olipop simply asked the influencers to include Olipop in the content in which they already create.

The lesson that all business owners can take from this is that our content needs to be more authentic and relatable rather than highly produced and polished.

Olipops rise to fame begs the question that most small business owners are asking. Do I need to hire an employee to do my marketing or do I get outside help like an agency?

Olipop did a mix of both. They had inside people posting on the Olipop social media pages, and other marketing avenues. However, the real driver of their rise to fame was the outside help of micro influencers.

Working with small businesses has shown me how many people try to sell them marketing services, often with dubious expertise. It's no wonder many owners end up hiring a family member or friend to handle marketing, rather than a "so-called" expert.

If you've tried hiring an agency with no results, you're probably skeptical of anyone claiming to be a marketing guru. Yet, you know marketing is crucial for growth, so you're caught between doing it yourself or hiring outside help.

Here is a simple guide to help you decide:

If you do not have any idea what you need for marketing your business and need a marketing strategy built from scratch, hire a marketing director. The downside to this is that most marketing directors/managers are going to be great at developing a strategy, graphic design, and posting on social media. However, they are going to need help with anything else. Therefore, with this option, eventually you are going to need outside help.

If you know what you are doing with marketing and just need someone to carry out your vision, then an agency is the best way to go. The pitfalls of this is that most agencies are very limited in personalization and use a cookie cutter graphics and just put your branding on them. Therefore, if you are looking for something very specific you will have to find an agency willing to do it or again find an individual who could carry out your vision.

A New Approach:

Many businesses want a more robust marketing service than what one or even two individuals can provide. That's why my agency offers a unique solution. We act as an extension of your team, attending meetings, collaborating directly, and creating a custom strategy tailored to your company.

We don't do cookie-cutter packages like most agencies. We're so confident in our results that we offer a guarantee: if we don't increase your online sales within 90 days, you get the next three months free.

Ready to Exceed Your Sales Goals?

Schedule a 30-minute call to discuss how we can help your business thrive. What have you got to lose?

Olipop, a healthy soda company, was able to break the barriers that most healthy drink companies face and became a mainstream brand in the soda industry. The question that many people are asking is, how did they do it?

Rather than going on about the details of its healthiness, Olipop talks about how their beverages help you poop.

Ok, that is mainly on TikTok because of TikTok’s laid back nature, but across all platforms they are clear and concise with the benefits, less sugar, more fiber. That’s it. Most companies give way too many details about the benefits of their products.

But still, how did a healthy soda company break the barriers of the healthy consumer niche and become mainstream?

Olipop’s rise to fame can be attributed to leaning into cultural trends such as when health and wellness drinks exploded, along with the rise of mocktails.

Olipop forms much of their marketing around mocktails, due to the lack of alcohol consumption from Gen Z compared to the older generations. Most of their highest viewed videos are about how to make a mocktail with an Olipop beverage.

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Ben Goodwin in an interview with Forbes made it clear they were NOT chasing trends. Rather they just were aware of what culture was doing and they inserted themselves to where they fit.

Goodwin goes onto say what really separates Olipop from the rest of not only the functional drink industry, but the entire soda industry - emotional connection. Goodwin tells Forbes, “OLIPOP is leveraging deep childhood memories and our aim was to tap into nostalgia and shared social moments.” Olipop leverages this nostalgia in all their marketing and branding by giving everything from their cans to their Instagram post a vintage vibe.

What this shows us is that we need to take the focus off our awesome products and find ways to insert our products into the current cultural climate.

Action steps:

Stop saying, “look how awesome we are” and find ways to communicate in a concise way how your product solves your consumers problems.

What is happening in culture that you can insert your product into? For Olipop it’s mocktails, what is your?

Find an emotional connection point. Every business has a vehicle to emotionally connect with your customers. You just have to identify it.

Working is not a sign of irreverence or disrespect. Rather, we are continuing to build the very thing in which those brave men and women died – a better America.

In a country where the people hold the power, it is up to the people, not the government, to move America forward. Local businesses are the greatest expression of this. A business can be defined as a group of people in a community coming together with an idea, a vision, a goal, to serve their fellow citizens.

Small local businesses are the heartbeat of America and the weight of keeping this great country going falls to the small business owners. No amount of government programs can replace the role of local business. Small businesses make up 44% of the total economic output of the U.S, and are responsible for creating every 2 out of 3 jobs in the U.S.

Those stats are only the surface of everything a small business provides for America. Small businesses are where new ideas and products are created more so than in any corporation. Small businesses submit 16.5 times more patents per employee than large corporations and every one of the large corporations which have changed America and the world started as a small local business.

So small business owner, do not feel bad for keeping this great country moving today. You continuing to do your job is the most honorable thing you can do today for every fallen American soldier. Because of you they did not die in vain. Because of you, America lives on.

https://advocacy.sba.gov/2019/01/30/small-businesses-generate-44-percent-of-u-s-economic-activity/

https://advocacy.sba.gov/2022/04/26/small-business-facts-small-business-job-creation/

https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/innovationresearch

How to Navigate and Utilize Your Google Shared Drive Effectively

Navigating through Google Drive and making the most of its shared drive feature can sometimes be confusing, especially if you're new to the platform. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the essential steps of finding your shared drive, as well as how to upload and create files within it, ensuring your documents are well-organized and accessible to your team.

Starting Point: Understanding Your Google Drive Interface

When you first log into Google Drive (drive.google.com), you're greeted with the 'Home' page. It's crucial to recognize that this is not your shared drive area; instead, it's your personal space where items shared with you, your own documents, or items visible only to you are stored. Avoid the urge to immediately start uploading or creating new files here if your intention is to use the shared drive.

Finding Your Shared Drive

Before you proceed with uploading or creating anything, it's essential to navigate to the correct location:

- Do Not Rush to Upload: When on the 'Home' screen or within 'My Drive', resist the temptation to start uploading or creating new files.

- Navigate to Shared Drive: To begin working with shared files, scroll down to the 'Shared Drives' section and select the desired shared drive or folder within it for your uploads or new documents.

Creating and Uploading Files and Folders

Once you're in the correct shared drive, here's how you can create or upload files and folders:

- New Folder: Simply click on 'New' > 'New Folder' to create a new folder within the shared drive.

- New File: For creating new documents (e.g., Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, or Forms), click on 'New' and choose the type of file you want to create. This is particularly useful for a variety of purposes, including employee or customer questionnaires.

- File or Folder Upload: Use the 'New' button and select 'File upload' or 'Folder upload' to add existing files or folders from your computer to the shared drive.

- Drag and Drop: Alternatively, you can drag files or folders directly from your computer and drop them onto the Google Drive interface for a quicker upload process. Ensure you wait for the 'Upload complete' notification before navigating away.

To keep your shared drive tidy and your files easy to find:

- Drag Folders Directly: Besides using the upload options, you can also drag entire folders into the shared drive interface without explicitly selecting the 'New' and 'Folder upload' options.

- Create Files in Their Destination Folders: For efficient organization, navigate to the specific folder where you want a new file to reside before creating it. This way, any new document (Google Docs, Sheets, etc.) you create will automatically save in the chosen folder, eliminating the need to move it later.

Conclusion

Effectively using Google's shared drive feature can significantly enhance your team's collaboration and document management efficiency. By following these steps, you'll ensure that your files are not only well-organized but also easily accessible to all members of your team. Remember, the key to a successful digital workspace is not just in creating and uploading content but also in how effectively you manage and organize that content for ease of access and collaboration.

While a lot of their statement is correct, that hard work is the only path to success. Many of them take it overboard. Some content creators go as far to say for a season you need to just tell your family you won't be around much and that you just have to miss out on that part of your family's life.

While when you put that much work in you are bound to get something out, the cost of that way for many is just too high, so they don't even try. While I am not saying that there won't be weeks where you don't spend a lot of time with your family and that you need to put your head down and go. What I am saying is that you can leverage other things than time to be successful.

There are many who work hard, but do not succeed. Why? Because they aren't working smart. They are aimlessly grinding away, going in the wrong direction. People sacrifice the things that matter most in pursuit of their goals, and still never get there.

They not only wasted time, but that time working hard was wasting money. The money of the opportunities that would have come their way if they would have slowed down and been strategic about their efforts. Therefore, it takes learning and strategy to reach your dreams and learning to leverage efficiency and productivity will get you much further than just working hard.

It takes practical know to do this, which is why so many fail. Many are so busy working hard they don't take a step back and take the time to learn how to be effective.

This is why I am helping business owners leverage efficiency and productivity to help them grow their business. To help them leverage these so they can still be successful, but also not missout on this season of their family's life.

If you feel as if you have no time and in your pursuit of being successful and you are missing out on this season of your family's life, click here and fill out the form. I can help you be more effective, giving you more time to be with the people you love while getting more results for your business.