The Miami Small Business Expo 2024 is a premier business-to-business trade show and educational event designed exclusively for entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners. It will take place on March 14, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST at the Miami Airport Convention Center.
Here are some of the key features of the Miami Small Business Expo 2024:
Exhibitors: Over 300 exhibitors will showcase their products and services, providing you with the opportunity to network with potential partners and suppliers.
Seminars and workshops: Learn from industry experts and gain valuable insights on a variety of topics, such as marketing, finance, business growth, and more.
Networking opportunities: Connect with fellow business owners and entrepreneurs to build relationships and share ideas.
Speed networking: Get face-to-face with dozens of potential customers and business partners in a short amount of time.
Live panel debates: Hear from business leaders and experts as they discuss the latest trends and challenges in the small business world.
Small Business Expo is Miami’s BIGGEST business networking & educational event for Small Business Owners & Entrepreneurs. Come join other passionate Miami Business Owners and learn how to increase revenue & grow your business.
With a 16-year legacy, Reuters Events: Strategic Marketing West 2024 unites 250+ senior marketing leaders to master data-driven creativity: effectively manage data to capture customer insight, evolve culture alongside consumer trends, and harness cutting-edge technology to its fullest potential.
Apple Podcasts has unveiled its list of the most popular podcasts of 2023. These year-end charts, localized for listeners in nearly 100 countries and regions, present a fascinating glimpse into the varied interests and preferences of podcast audiences globally.
The Top Shows of 2023
The list of top shows features a mix of genres and topics, reflecting the diverse tastes of podcast listeners. Leading the pack in the U.S. are:
Crime Junkie: A staple for true crime enthusiasts.
The Daily: Offering daily news insights from The New York Times.
Dateline NBC: Another hit for true crime fans.
SmartLess: A blend of humor and celebrity interviews.
This American Life: A journalistic non-fiction show that tells fascinating stories.
Other notable mentions include Morbid, Up First, Huberman Lab, Hidden Brain, and Stuff You Should Know.
Standout New Shows of 2023
New podcasts that debuted this year also grabbed listeners’ attention. Top new shows include Scamanda, The Retrievals, and The Deck Investigates, among others, showcasing a strong interest in investigative and narrative storytelling.
Most Followed and Most Shared
In terms of engagement, Huberman Lab and SmartLess emerged as some of the most followed shows. When it comes to sharing, Scamanda and Sold a Story lead the way, indicating their impact and resonance with listeners.
Curated Collections and Anticipation for Show of the Year
Listeners in over 15 markets have access to “Shows We Love,” a curated collection of standout series. Additionally, Apple Podcasts is set to reveal the Show of the Year on December 5, further highlighting the best in podcasting for 2023.
The Top Channels
The top free channels list includes familiar names like iHeartPodcasts, audiochuck, and The New York Times, while top subscriber channels feature Wondery, Dateline NBC, and Pushkin.
Apple Podcasts’ 2023 charts offer a comprehensive look at what’s resonating with listeners, from gripping true crime stories to in-depth interviews and insightful news coverage. As podcasts continue to grow in popularity, these charts not only celebrate the creators but also guide listeners towards new and exciting content.
If you buy something through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more.
Running a small business can be expensive. But if you dedicate your resources to the right expenses, those investments can pay off and ultimately help you earn more revenue. So, how can you tell what costs are worthwhile? Check out some recent insights from members of the online small business community below.
Learn All About Franchise Royalties
When buying into a franchise model, royalties are usually part of the deal. While franchisees generally don’t like paying these fees, they do serve an important purpose in many systems. Joel Libava dives into the concept in this post on The Franchise King blog.
Get a Startup Business Loan
A business loan can help a new business make valuable investments to get their idea off the ground. But it’s not always easy to get an influx of cash with no credit history. Learn more in this Ideamotive post by Kamil Osiecki.
Choose the Right Paid Media Agency for Your Business
If you’re investing your business’s hard-earned money into paid media, you want to be sure you’re trusting the right people. Agencies can be incredibly helpful in navigating the paid media options and building campaigns. But how do you know you’re choosing the right one? Check out this Noobpreneur post by Ivan Widjaya for tips.
Check Out These Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals for Entrepreneurs
Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren’t just for buying gifts. For entrepreneurs, these holidays can provide an ideal opportunity to save money on large purchases. Read about some upcoming deals in this 99signals post by Sandeep Mallya. Then head over to BizSugar to see what members are saying.
Consider Starting a Freelance Business
Freelancing can be an ideal business opportunity or an extra source of income for existing entrepreneurs. But there are many factors that go into starting this type of venture. Nellie Akalp of CorpNet details several important steps here.
Find the Best Ecommerce Platforms for Beginners
Starting an ecommerce shop can open tons of new revenue opportunities for businesses. But choosing the right platform is paramount. If you’re just getting started, read this Blogging Wizard post by Adam Connell for a full list of options for beginners.
Consider the Cost of Mobile App Development
There’s no doubt that mobile app development can transform a business. But there are costs involved. Before making the investment, it helps to understand the types of expenses and what they cover. In this Decipher Zone post, Mahipal Nehra shares a guide for businesses.
Learn How to Form an LLC
Selecting a business structure is one of the most important early decisions for any entrepreneur. LLCs offer plenty of protections and financial benefits, but there may also be expenses involved. To understand the details, read this Crowdspring guide by Ross Kimbarovsky.
Use These Tips to Optimize Amazon Campaigns
Paid campaigns on Amazon can provide a great way to boost sales. To truly optimize your investment, it’s important to understand metrics like average cost of sales. In this Noogata post, Jaron Seijffers dives into the concept and provides helpful insights.
Patent Your Mobile App Idea
If you have an idea for a new mobile app, you may need to patent it to protect yourself. So how can you take the steps needed to claim this idea? See the guide in this MindInventory post by Vivek Zala.
If you’d like to suggest your favorite small business content to be considered for an upcoming community roundup, please send your news tips to: sbtips@gmail.com.
Small business grants can provide hugely valuable resources to small businesses. However, the extra influx of cash can only have a major impact if entrepreneurs use funds wisely. Luckily, many small business grant programs also provide educational resources like courses and mentorship to help entrepreneurs through this part of their journey. Learn more about some recent programs offering grant funding and educational resources to small businesses.
Verizon Digital Ready Grants
The Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program offers $10,000 grants to small businesses. Recently, Houston area entrepreneur Diedre Mathis received a surprise $10,000 grant from the program to support her business, the Wanderstay Houston Hostel. She is one of many entrepreneurs that has benefitted from the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program in recent years. In addition to grant funding, the program offers free courses, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Small businesses have until December 20, 2023, to apply for the current grant cycle. To qualify for a chance to win a $10,000 grant, participants need to complete two modules in any combination – courses, coaching sessions, or community events. This step makes them eligible for grant consideration.
Women Business Center of Fayetteville Verizon Digital Ready Partnership
The Women Business Center of Fayetteville (WBCFAY) Program, operated by the Center for Empowerment and Economic Development (CEED), is teaming up with Verizon’s Small Business Digital Ready program to offer a unique chance for small businesses. This collaboration brings $10,000 grants and an online learning platform to small business owners. Key features of this program are:
Open and Free Registration: Any small business is welcome to sign up without any cost or need to engage with Verizon services.
On-Demand Learning: The program provides materials that users can access whenever they want, allowing them to learn at a pace that suits them best.
Tailored Experience: Business owners have the flexibility to customize the program according to their specific requirements, making it easier to adapt to changing interests and challenges.
State College Small Business Grant Program
The Downtown State College Improvement District in State College, Pennsylvania recently unveiled a fresh grant initiative, designed to assist small business owners and property managers with various capital enhancements. Set to begin in early 2024, this initiative focuses on facade and internal refurbishments, playing a key role in the rejuvenation of the downtown area. Through the Small Business Grant Program, eligible downtown participants will have access to grants between $1,000 and $5,000. Recipients of these grants will need to provide a matching amount as well.
Southeast Queens Entrepreneur Grant Program
Southeast Queens small businesses currently have the chance to secure a grant from the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation. This $2,500 grant is part of the Southeast Queens Entrepreneur Grant Program, designed to support BIPOC-owned businesses. Eligible businesses can access up to $2,500 in grant funding to assist with operational expenses. To qualify, businesses should be operational for at least one year, for-profit, have no more than ten employees, and report annual gross receipts ranging from $50,000 to $500,000. The grant is available to businesses in various neighborhoods, including Bellaire, Brookville, Cambria Heights, Hollis, Hollis Hills, Holliswood, Jamaica, Jamaica Estates, Jamaica Hills, South Jamaica, Rochdale Village (Cooperative Housing Development), St. Albans, Laurelton, Queens Village, Rosedale, Meadowmere, and Warnerville.
Aurora Small Business Equity Fund
Business owners in Aurora, Colorado who are interested in enhancing their eco-friendly practices have an opportunity to apply for a new small business grant program to help. The Small Business Equity Fund, initiated by the Colorado Green Business Network in 2022, is being offered by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This initiative aims to assist small businesses in Aurora and Commerce City with energy-efficient upgrades. The fund provides a range of upgrades, such as LED lighting installation and up to 70 percent cost coverage for replacing refrigeration equipment, with a maximum of $10,000 per business. The evaluation of applications by officials is slated to commence in January.
Oneonta Community Development Block Grant
Oneonta, New York is seeking $200,000 from a state fund to provide microenterprise grants for small businesses. This effort would mark the city’s eighth receipt of a Community Development Block Grant, which is overseen by the New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal. Of this funding, $178,000 is expected to be allocated for business grants by the spring, while the remaining $22,000 would cover the administrative expenses of the city staff. Businesses with up to five employees, including the owner, can apply for these grants, which are expected to range from $5,000 to $35,000. Grants may also require a 10 percent additional contribution from the business owners. To be eligible, the business owner must have a low to moderate income, or the business should create a job that supports a low to moderate income individual. The grant can be used for various expenses, including purchasing machinery, equipment, furniture, inventory, and providing operating capital.
A Chief Operating Officer (COO) is essential in translating a business’s goals and vision into actionable strategies. They allocate budgets, technology and manpower and oversee procedures across different departments.
A successful COO streamlines operations to make them more efficient and productive. They make sure businesses meet regulatory requirements and quality standards.
The Role of a Chief Operating Officer in Business
These experts carry on a variety of different roles at once. A chief operating officer who manages daily operations in a retail company will control inventory systems and oversee supplier relationships.
They’re also responsible for implementing strategic plans. A COO in a tech startup could work with the marketing department to identify opportunities and conduct research.
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Key Responsibilities of a Chief Operating Officer
The core duties of a chief operating officer are:
Managing the allocation of resources like technology, personnel and finances.
Developing and executing strategies that are implemented across different departments.
Overseeing the day-to-day operations of a business by optimizing productivity and workflows while maintaining quality standards.
A COO takes on a more hands-on approach when compared to other C-suite positions. A CEO might focus on setting a vision and direction, while a CFO will concentrate on finances.
The COO is tasked with executing strategies and day-to-day management. Improving processes and focusing on operational excellence is the goal.
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The Impact of a COO on Business Strategies
Chief operating officers are instrumental in executing different business strategies. They drive organizational success by collaborating with CEOs and other executives on long-term plans. They serve as a bridge between various departments to ensure everyone is aligned with a business’s goals.
They foster a culture of continual improvement. For example, a COO can introduce automation to a manufacturing company to reduce production times.
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Identifying the Need for a COO in Your Business
You’ll need to check a few boxes to determine if a business requires one of these experts.
When management finds it hard to oversee the daily operations, consider bringing in a COO.
A chief operating officer can be significant when a company grows or decides to expand.
A COO is a good idea if a small business’s production lines, locations or departments are becoming intricate and complicated.
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Hiring a COO: Essential Qualities and Qualifications
A good COO has specific qualifications, skills, and qualities like the following:
Data-driven decision-making abilities that include analyzing analytics and metrics to identify operational inefficiencies.
Sound financial skills include allocating resources, optimizing operational costs, and managing budgets. All of these matter to a coo role.
The ability to anticipate and identify trends and opportunities and use them for business planning. It’s also beneficial to utilize a training plan template to further develop the skills of a COO, ensuring they stay ahead in their role.
A good COO should also be equipped with strategies to reduce hiring bias in their team-building efforts, ensuring a diverse and effective workforce within the company.
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What Makes a Successful Chief Operating Officer
Here are some traits and skills that can make one candidate better than another.
Leadership
Look for individuals who show resourcefulness and adaptability. Ask specific questions about how they’ve led small teams and managed operations.
Operational Strategy
The best candidates have a proven track record of optimizing resources and scaling operations. Look for individuals who have managed small businesses through growth phases.
Strategic Thinking
Businesses should look for candidates who have hands-on experience. Look for people who have adapted to changing markets and created effective solutions.
Quality
Description
Importance in Role
Evaluation Methods
Leadership Skills
Ability to inspire and lead a team effectively.
Essential for managing operations and driving company growth.
Assess through past leadership experiences and references.
Strategic Thinking
Capability to devise and implement strategic plans.
Vital for aligning operations with overall business goals.
Evaluate through case studies or strategy discussions.
Operational Expertise
In-depth knowledge of industry-specific operations.
Ensures efficient and effective management of daily activities.
Review past operational roles and achievements.
Communication Skills
Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
Crucial for internal coordination and external stakeholder relations.
Observe in interviews and seek feedback from previous teams.
Problem-Solving Skills
Proficiency in identifying and resolving operational challenges.
Key to maintaining smooth operations and business continuity.
Discuss problem-solving scenarios and past experiences.
Financial Acumen
Understanding of financial management and budgeting.
Important for overseeing operational budgets and profitability.
Verify through financial management experiences and achievements.
Adaptability
Ability to adapt to changing market conditions and challenges.
Essential in today’s fast-paced and evolving business landscape.
Assess through examples of past adaptability in professional settings.
Innovation
Aptitude for driving innovation within operations.
Helps in keeping the company competitive and efficient.
Explore innovative projects or initiatives they’ve led or contributed to.
People Management
Skills in managing, motivating, and developing a team.
Important for building a strong operational team and company culture.
Inquire about their management style and employee development examples.
Tech-Savviness
Familiarity with relevant technologies and digital tools.
Increasingly important for modernizing operations and processes.
Discuss familiarity with industry-specific technologies and digital transformation experiences.
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Hiring a Fractional COO
A fractional COO can be a good choice for a smaller business. For smaller enterprises looking to expand, building a team with contractors and freelancers can complement the strategic guidance provided by a fractional COO. Still, a business can leverage experience on a part-time basis. A part-time hire can bridge into a full-time employee as a company expands.
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How to Hire a COO: A Step-by-Step Guide
The following are some suggested steps to take to hire a good candidate.
Drafting the COO Job Description
A Chief Operating Officer ( COO) job description is critical. Understanding the chief operating officer job description in detail will help in creating a comprehensive and effective job listing.
It needs to identify primary responsibilities. Include everything from developing strategies to managing cross-functional teams and daily operations.
The job description must also be specific about the skills and qualifications you’ll need. Emphasize strong business acumen and strategic thinking.
Any additional details on the job description should include secondary duties like fostering a culture of innovation.
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Sourcing Candidates for the COO Role
Executive search firms are an excellent way to find good candidates. These firms specialize to help you narrow your choices. For example, if you’re looking for somebody in a tech leadership role, a company like Korn Ferry can help. Additionally, exploring unusual ways to promote a job opening can help in reaching a broader, more diverse pool of potential COO candidates.
The Interview Process for Chief Operating Officers
Using the right strategies and techniques in an interview will help narrow down candidates.
Techniques
During the interview process, it’s crucial to have interview questions to ask candidates that are specifically designed to evaluate the competencies and potential of a COO candidate. Behavioral interviewing should ask questions about how candidates implement strategic initiatives to assess problem-solving skills. Panel interviews can include team leaders and department heads to get multiple perspectives.
If a candidate is not selected, sending an interview rejection letter professionally is important to maintain goodwill.
Strategies
Case studies and or simulations work here. Presenting a candidate with a hypothetical challenge can evaluate their analytical skills. Reference checks are an excellent strategy to assess their leadership style and strengths.
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Assessing COO Candidates
Evaluating the candidate should be based on their process improvements, past performance metrics and experience. Analyzing their track record by using key performance benchmarks is the best technique. Ask for specific examples and look for candidates who understand Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
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Onboarding a New Chief Operating Officer
Integrating a new COO means helping them align with your company culture and executive team. Orientation sessions should introduce them to the company culture. A new COO should be encouraged to participate in cross-departmental meetings and team-building exercises.
Implementing onboarding best practices is extremely important for integrating a new COO into the company. This ensures they are well-aligned with the company culture and objectives. Utilizing a guide on how to onboard new employees can be particularly helpful in providing a smooth transition for a COO into their new role.
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FAQs: How to Hire a COO
Here are some concise answers to frequently asked questions.
What are the key differences between a COO and other C-suite roles?
The COO usually focuses on day-to-day strategies and operations. Other management roles look after marketing, financial management and other more narrowly focused departments.
What are the key considerations in hiring a chief operating officer?
While the hiring process has several key considerations, strategic alignment is critical. Ensuring a COO has experience and expertise that aligns with your operational needs and strategic goals is vital. Their leadership style needs to drive a productive and positive work culture.
How long does it take to hire a chief operating officer?
The time it takes to hire a COO can vary depending on availability, negotiations and assessment procedures. Typically, finding a good fit takes several months to half a year.
How does a COO oversee operations effectively?
An effective COO combines process optimization, team management and strategic planning by making data-driven decisions. Image: Envato Elements
Reuters Events: Strategic Marketing West 2024
