6 Efficient Ways To Market Your Business On Instagram

There are more than 800 million active users on Instagram worldwide. This massive figure is generated per month. Imagine how many billion likes are collected per day? It is no wonder that Instagram’s international market can enable your brand to reach new heights.

For business purposes, carefully crafting your Instagram profile can lead to viral marketing success. On the other hand, your efforts may go to waste when you use the platform for the wrong reasons.

CONSISTENCY IS THE KEY

Let us start with the basics! As you market your budding business, it is important to maintain consistency through your profile handle as well as your featured photo. Potential followers or clients can easily find you online if you use the same moniker across all platforms. Choose a name that best suits your brand. You may select a name as straightforward as @airbnb, @playdoh, or @adobe.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

All your interactions on Instagram are accompanied by a little round thumbnail of your account. Choose a featured photo that is both recognizable and professional. It is easier to display your brand if all these pieces fit coherently well.

MAKE THINGS ACCESSIBLE

One of my main goals when I set up a professional Instagram account is to sell convenience. You can turn Instagram users to your potential clients by providing significant company information such as your contact number and location. You can display these information through the Instagram Business Profile. This specialized profile allows you to gain access to the extensive analytics data as well. Use said data to tailor your posts among your targeted audience.

Another strategy that enables you to sell convenience is to post a picture of your product launch or your current promotion. Just take some notes from the trending Kylie Cosmetics.

BOOST TRAFFIC TO YOUR SITE

There is an element of truth to the age-old saying that “first impression lasts”. Send a potent message to your followers by creating an enticing Bio. Aside from your cheesy thumbnail, Instagram users focus on the contents of your Bio.

Directly under your name is a description box that can either make or break your brand. This is why you must carefully contemplate on its contents. Remember to include a link to your online shop or website to increase traffic.

INTEGRATE TESTIMONIALS

A surefire way to be as relatable as possible is to show your loyal clients’ great experiences. People are more likely to be patronizing a product if they heard about it from an existing satisfied client.

Integrate honest testimonials by using the Instagram stories and its multiple slides. There are many ways to showcase said testimonials. Firstly, you can stream the clients’ reviews on Instagram live. Secondly, you can post a 60-second testimonial video on your feed. Lastly, you can feature your clients’ tagged photos by posting multiple slides.

 

PICK A PROPER HASHTAG

Whenever I am given the opportunity to spearhead an event, I would suggest to designate a specific hashtag. Having an Instagram hashtag enables you to have a gold mine of photos – especially because you can follow #’s now. Apply the same tactic for your business.

Run an exciting campaign that includes a unique hashtag (e.g., #annagiveway2k18 or #ezrasugarcane). Doing this not only promotes your contest, but also allows the participants to connect with each other.

FOCUS ON THE SOLUTION

Put a spotlight on the solutions that your company can bring instead of solely showcasing items. Show the process behind your famous products and services by uploading behind-the-scenes videos. It is possible to do this by uploading short videos or creating interesting Boomerangs. People have always been fascinated by the “how-to videos” (as seen in the millions of Youtube views that this theme receives).

Image Credits: pixabay.com

On Instagram, you are expected to add value to your clients while looking aesthetically pleasing. Tailoring your visual content is vital to your social media presence.

Sources: 1, 2 & 3

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4 Steps To Overcome Family-Related Money Problems

The extent of your economic slowdown may vary from eating out less to changing your living conditions. Parents may not have enough money to put toward rent or school fees. These financial problems can take a toll on one’s mental and physical health. Thus, overcoming said hurdles is important.

To tackle these family-centered issues head-on, you must start with these four steps:

#1: DETERMINE THE ISSUE/S

It goes without saying that it is difficult to defeat the enemies that you cannot see. Try asking the ninjas! Similarly, how can you find solutions to a problem that you are not aware of?

Thus, the first step to overcoming family-related money problems is to identify the underlying issues. Financial problems are usually parts of a larger issue. Here are some common issues that you may think about:

a. Newborn (of first-time parents)
b. Unemployment
c. Addiction / Substance Abuse
d. Divorce

#2: OPEN THE COMMUNICATION STREAMS

As a child who sees his or her parents fighting constantly about money, talking about your worries can help. Find an appropriate time to discuss about the financial matters with your parents. If you cannot approach them right now, you may lean on a trusted friend or a credible counselor.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Do not hesitate to seek for professional help if the need arises.

#3: RANK YOUR FINANCIAL PRIORITIES

After addressing your triggers, it is best to create a path towards active resolution. Begin by writing down and ranking your financial priorities. Some may be as direct as paying off your credit card bills. While, others may focus on your lifestyle goals such as repairing your aesthetically pleasing home.

Nevertheless, it is important to create a realistic budget suited to controlling your financial problems.

#4: CREATE A SAFETY NET

The future of your wealth is up to you! As the above steps have illustrated, you must review your current financial circumstance and create a straightforward path. To prevent further damage or cushion unforeseen events, consider cultivating an emergency fund.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Families are recommended to have a sufficient amount worth at least 6 months of your income. Do not rely solely on credit cards for emergencies!

Sources: 1 &  2

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Exotic and Affordable Dishes In Singapore

Let me paint a common scenario in this day and age. One unsuspecting click to a single headline or YouTube video leads to another. It happens to the best of us! This rabbit hole of wonders led me to a video featuring celebrity’s favorite dishes. As it turns out, singer The Weeknd finds comfort in “Siga Wat”. Siga Wat is a traditional Ethiopian dish made with a spicy beef stew and a side-dish (e.g., bread).

Image Credits: The Come Up Show via flickr.com

Hearing about this dish opened my mind to other exotic dishes in the international scene. How adventurous are Singaporeans when it comes to their food? Well, many are eager to explore new things. On that note, here are deliciously exotic dishes that are under S$30.

#1: BRAISED SEA CUCUMBER WITH CHINESE MUSHROOM (S$26)

I was first introduced to the sea cucumber in my Biology class. My lecturer highlighted that sea cucumbers are marine animals from the animal class of Holothuroidea. It has a strong anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate pain in patients suffering from tendonitis and arthritis. Furthermore, historical Chinese beliefs considered it as an aphrodisiac due to its resemblance to the male’s genitalia.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sea cucumbers are eaten either fresh or dried up. Whichever way they are prepared, it has little to no taste and has a “fishy” smell. It is also rich in sand. A casual Cantonese restaurant in Singapore carries a dish that places it as their star. Cafe De Hong Kong serves Braised Sea Cucumber with Chinese Mushroom for S$26. Feel free to give it a try!

Location: 586 Balestier Road #01-01 Eastpac Building, Singapore 329898
Website: facebook.com/Cafe-De-Hong-Kong-48893444221

#2: CAUSA DEL MAR (S$19)

Contrary to popular belief, Peru holds more jewels aside from the renowned Machu Picchu! Its Peruvian cuisine fuses the Inca’s indigenous practices as well as the immigrant’s varied practices (i.e., immigrants from Asia, West Africa, and Europe). Corn and potatoes are staples to their dishes.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Taste authentic Peruvian dishes as you climb a vibrant rooftop joint – the Tiger’s Milk. Tiger’s Milk got its name after the traditional citrus-based marinade called “Leche de Tigre”. You must try the Causa Del Mar dish, which is a multicoloured potato-based starter filled with prawns, octopus, and avocado. Interesting combination, right?

Location: The Club, 28 Ann Siang Rd, Singapore 069708
Website: facebook.com/tigersmilksingapore

#3: GOBI MANCHURIAN (S$14.20) & STEAMED VEGETABLE MOMOS (S$9.80)

Centuries ago, the Chinese and Tibetans migrated to Bengal. The multicultural interactions brought dishes ranging from sweet to sour. Fifth Season Tangra Chinese is perfect for people who are deeply interested to witness the flavor play of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan cuisine. The restaurant includes award-winning dishes such as the Tibetan Momos.

Image Credits: fifthseason.com.sg

Steamed vegetable momos consists of dumplings stuffed with minced vegetable. It is served with a special chili that is roasted in tomato sauce. Another exotic dish is Gobi Manchurian. It consists of crisp cauliflowers seasoned with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. These dishes only prove that the restaurant will have you satiated with its extensive repertoire.

Location: 28 Race Course Road, Singapore 218550
Website: www.fifthseason.com.sg

Image Credits: Charles Haynes via flickr.com

“Exotic food is a term that is applied to culinary items which are considered unusual, novel, or taboo from the perspective of an individual’s native culture.” I, for one, am not afraid to try exciting and eccentric flavors. Some of the weirdest things that I have tried are Balut, crickets, frog’s legs, June beetles, and chicken’s intestines. Balut was my favorite among this exotic group.

How about you? How adventurous are you when it comes to food? Have you ever tasted or heard any of these dishes? Do not be shy to leave a comment below!

Sources: 1 & 2

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Don’t Share These Personal Issues In The Workplace!

Personal issues includes your family drama, emotional difficulties, boyfriend problems, and even your outstanding debt. These private issues can impact your ability to advance in your career. Thus, it is ideal to keep things on a balance beam. Put your “private life” on one end and the “work life” on another end.

It is inevitable to experience a crossover between these two, but you must deal with it in a healthy manner. Remember that oversharing is not always a good strategy!

#1: VARIOUS FINANCIAL WOES

As a financial writer, I respect the financial transparency between a husband and wife. I highly encourage open communication in a domestic setting. However, you must draw a thick line in a professional setting. Your co-workers do not want to hear about your financial woes as much as you do not want to hear theirs!

It is possible to earn similar salaries as your co-workers. Thus, you may perceive them as your allies who will emphatize with your financial circumstance. This is not always the case. Being in the same situation does not guarantee that they can provide decent advices to you. Seek professional help.

#2: PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT TURMOIL

Workplace dramas spread like wildfire. To prevent this, employers do their best to maintain group harmony. It goes without saying that you should skip stories revolving your previous workplace termoils. I can vividly remember staying away from my co-worker who was utterly open about her unhealthy sexual encounters.

Yes! Stories such as a cheating boss, a dishonest co-worker, and a crazy office party are juicy. However, employers and other individuals tend to frown upon staff members with these type of past. Letting out your dramatic past will affect other people’s perception of your character and your worth ethics. Are you willing to risk those?

#3: DEEPEST DARKEST WEAKNESSES

In the animal kingdom, a dog manifest its submission by rolling over and exposing its belly. The dog freely reveals his weakness to other trusted beings. You may unintentionally doing the same thing when you share too much about yourself.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Some of your subordinates may take advantage of your weaknesses by giving you tasks that are beyond your capabilities. Furthermore, it may influence your employer’s decision when considering you for a promotion. Seek to do the opposite by demonstrating your strengths. Demonstrate your worth to the company today!

#4: SERIOUS RELATIONSHIP DISASTERS

Let us face it – no marriage is perfect! Just listen to Beyonce’s “Lemonade” album. Not even Queen B and legendary Jay Z were spared from cheating scandals. A cheating party, a messy divorce, and a harsh breakup are all parts of life. You are bound to fight with these tides and thrive soon after.

No matter how seemingly acceptable these serious subjects are, you should not blurt out these issues to the workplace conversations. Digging up your relationship disasters communicates that you have a difficulty in separating your workplace and personal lives. This inability to discriminate between the two is a career-limiting trait.

#5: STRONG RELIGIOUS OR POLITICAL VIEWS

While I was in a recent reunion with my ex-colleagues, our random topics led to sharing our personal views. It was the first time that we talked about our political and religious stances. You see, we usually steer away from these hot-button topics that trigger distinct reactions. Our current social positions allowed us to be more open about these topics. However, sharing our thoughts may have a different impact back when we were in the same workplace.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

It is easy for a casual comment on a particular religious sector to turn into a negative commentary. The negative effect may affect your professional opportunities. As much as possible, you must exercise religious sensitivity and political correctness. Keep these strong beliefs out of the workplace!

Sources: 1& 2

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5 Mind Tricks That Restaurants Employ To Make You Spend

There are important things to consider while designing a new restaurant’s interior and its minor details such as the menu. One thing is for sure – you are building a business to boost your income. You may consider employing these Psychological tricks to help your sales.

#1: DROP THE DOLLAR SIGN

What I told you that you can entice your customers to spend more with minor alterations? Yes, it is possible! Simply drop the dollar signs found on your menu. Customers become more aware of their spending when they are bombarded with currency indicators (i.e., $ or S$).

Research suggests that customers who were given a menu without “$” significantly spent more than those who received a menu with currency indicators in them. You may write out the price in words too (e.g., ten dollars). These techniques reduce the negative feelings associated with paying.

#2: TRIGGER THE FAMILY TIES

The Asian culture puts a great value on the closeness of family. Most of us work to aid our family members’ expenses. Restaurant owners and managers can use this unified value to their advantage by tailoring their brand.

You may either put the “names” of the relatives on the menu or on the establishment. Having “grandma’s soup” or “uncle’s supreme burger” on the menu can add a hint of nostalgia. While, you can name your establishment something similar to Papa John’s Pizza or Auntie Anne’s.

#3: PUT THE APPETIZING COLORS

Whenever you are out to eat, you see wonderful colors that vary from the lightest to the darkest shades. It is no secret that colors can impact one’s spending. The sight of it automatically stimulates you and increases your memories, color-motivated behaviors, and social influences. For instance, green is associated with nature and other elicit relaxing feelings. It is used by cafes that want people to sit down for a long time. Just take a cue from Starbucks!

Image Credits: pixabay.com

From the logos to the interior, two colors seem to stay at almost every fast food chains. These two colors are red and yellow. Red and yellow stimulate appetite, which probably explains why your stomach starts to make noises as soon as you see the yellow arches or the red logo. You cannot resist spending more inside!

#4: PLACE EXPENSIVE DISHES FIRST

Previous research showed that customers scan through a menu and focus their attentions on the main course. With this in mind, you may influence the fixation of their eyes. Put the expensive dishes on the first page. People are likely to order the first few items that they are drawn to. You may add colorful pictures to tempt your customers with the dishes’ delectable flavors.

This technique works because of the Primacy Effect. Primacy Effect, in Psychology, is the tendency for the first items (presented in a series) to be remembered better than the rest. Another reason why this is effective is the utter comparison between the expensive dishes and the rest of the menu. The succeeding dishes seem to be reasonably priced compared to the aforementioned. People will pay more for good deals!

#5: MAKE YOUR FONTS FANCY

The beauty premium is the idea that attractive individuals receive higher salaries compared to the other side of the spectrum deemed as the “ugliness penalty”. Physical appearance is crucial to boosting a restaurant’s sales too. Having attractive fonts can add an irresistible tone to your menu and branding.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

You can highlight dishes using different colors or fancier fonts. The addition of pizzazz to the visual presentation increases its perceived specialty. However, high-end restaurants tend to avoid this technique. They tend to stick to minimalism as they do not want to appear “tasteless”.

Sources:  1,2 &3

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