CUSTOMER RETENTION STATISTICS – The Ultimate Collection for Small Business

CUSTOMER RETENTION STATISTICS – The Ultimate Collection for Small Business

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We’ve collected these customer retention statistics for small businesses from a variety of sources. Enjoy the list and see if any catch your attention that might be especially relevent to your company.

What is Customer Retention?

Customer retention refers to the strategic efforts a business makes to keep existing customers engaged and loyal over time. It’s about nurturing positive relationships with customers to encourage repeat purchases, foster brand advocacy, and reduce customer churn.

This involves consistently providing exceptional experiences, personalized services, and addressing customer needs proactively. Effective customer retention strategies aim to create a loyal customer base that contributes to long-term revenue and maximizes customer lifetime value.

By understanding and meeting the evolving preferences and expectations of their existing customers, businesses work to build a stable and loyal clientele.

Last updated: October 16, 2016

CUSTOMER RETENTION STATISTICS

customer retention statistics

 

CUSTOMER RETENTION AND MARKETING

  • 80 percent of businesses surveyed rely on email marketing for customer retention.
  • 56 percent of survey respondents considered email marketing to be the most effective method of reaching customer retention goals.
  • 36 percent of U.S. retail professionals said organic search drives customer retention.
  • 43 percent of U.S. retail professionals said paid search drives customer retention.
  • 44 percent of U.S. retail professionals said social media drives customer retention.
  • 37 percent of U.S. retail professionals said retargeting drives customer retention.
  • 21 percent of U.S. retail professionals said affiliates drive customer retention.
  • 18 percent of U.S. retail professionals said referral marketing drives customer retention.
  • 8 percent of U.S. retail professionals said mobile marketing drives customer retention.

CUSTOMER RETENTION AND THE COST OF SALES

customer retention statistics

 

  • It costs 5 percent more to acquire a new customer than it does to keep a current one.
  • It costs 16x more to bring a new customer up to the same level as a current one.
  • 82 percent of companies agree that retention is cheaper to execute than acquisition.
  • A mere two percent increase in customer retention can lower costs by as much as 10 percent.

CUSTOMER RETENTION AND CUSTOMER SERVICE

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  • 82 percent of consumers in the United States said they stopped doing business with a company due to a poor customer experience.
  • Companies lose 71 percent of consumers due to poor customer service.
  • 68 percent of customers leave you because they perceive you are indifferent to them.
  • 60 to 70 percent of customers will do business with a company again if it deals with a customer service issue fairly even if the result is not in their favor.
  • 47 percent of customers would take their business to a competitor within a day of experiencing poor customer service.
  • 66 percent of consumers who switched brands did so because of poor service.

CUSTOMER RETENTION AND YOUR BOTTOM LINE

customer retention statistics

  • The average repeat customer spends 67 percent more in months 31-36 of their relationship with a business than they do in months 0-6.
  • A five percent increase in customer retention can lead to an increase in profits of between 25 and 95 percent.
  • Lowering your customer churn rate by five percent can increase your profitability by 25 to 125 percent.
  • Repeat customers spend 33 percent more than new customers.
  • A 10 percent increase in customer retention levels results in a 30 percent increase in the value of the company.

Customer Retention Statistics Summary

Customer Retention Statistics Percentage
Probability of selling to existing customer 60-70%
Probability of selling to new prospect 5-20%
Future profits from 20% of existing customers 80%
Business from existing customers 65%
Executives prioritizing customer retention 32%
Annual customer churn rate 15%
First-time customers not returning 11-20%
Businesses using email marketing 80%
Most effective method for customer retention Email marketing (56%)
Organic search driving customer retention 36%
Paid search driving customer retention 43%
Social media driving customer retention 44%
Retargeting driving customer retention 37%
Affiliates driving customer retention 21%
Referral marketing driving customer retention 18%
Mobile marketing driving customer retention 8%
Cost to acquire a new customer compared to keeping a current one 5% more
Cost to bring a new customer to the level of a current one 16x more
Companies agreeing retention is cheaper than acquisition 82%
Increase in customer retention leading to increased profits 25-95%
Lowering customer churn rate leading to increased profitability 25-125%
Repeat customers spending more than new customers 33%
Increase in customer retention levels leading to increased company value 30%

The Importance of Customer Retention

Customer retention is a critical aspect of any successful business strategy. While acquiring new customers is essential for growth, retaining existing customers is equally crucial for sustained business success and long-term sustainability.

  • Sustained Revenue and Profitability
  • Cost-Effectiveness
  • Brand Advocacy and Word-of-Mouth Marketing
  • Increased Customer Lifetime Value (CLV)
  • Competitive Edge
  • Insights for Improvement
  • Stability in Turbulent Times
  • Building Trust and Relationships
  • Nurturing Customer Loyalty Programs
  • A Platform for Growth

Sustained Revenue and Profitability

Retaining existing customers ensures a steady flow of income, as they are more likely to make repeat purchases and are generally less sensitive to price changes. These customers also tend to buy more over time, as they develop trust and loyalty towards your brand. Cultivating this loyalty not only stabilizes your revenue stream but also provides a predictable financial landscape for planning future growth strategies.

Cost-Effectiveness

Acquiring new customers involves marketing, advertising, and promotional efforts, which can be costly. Studies suggest that it can be five to 25 times more expensive to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one. By investing in customer retention, businesses can maximize the value of their existing customer base, making it a more cost-effective strategy in the long run.

Brand Advocacy and Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Satisfied customers often become brand advocates, sharing their positive experiences with others. This word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly valuable as it comes with the trust and credibility of personal recommendations. It’s a powerful tool that can drive new customer acquisitions more effectively than traditional marketing methods.

Increased Customer Lifetime Value (CLV)

Focusing on customer retention strategies, such as loyalty programs or personalized customer service, can significantly increase the CLV. This metric represents the total revenue a business can expect from a single customer over the course of their relationship, making it a crucial indicator of long-term business success.

Competitive Edge

In a crowded marketplace, the ability to retain customers can be a key differentiator. A business that nurtures and maintains customer relationships is more likely to withstand market competition and changing consumer trends, setting it apart from competitors that continually need to invest in new customer acquisition.

Insights for Improvement

Engaging with and retaining customers provides a wealth of insights into customer preferences, behaviors, and feedback. This information is invaluable for continuous improvement of products and services. It allows businesses to make data-driven decisions that are more likely to meet customer expectations and needs.

Stability in Turbulent Times

During economic downturns or market shifts, a loyal customer base acts as a buffer. These customers provide a reliable revenue stream, allowing the business to maintain stability and weather challenging periods more effectively.

Building Trust and Relationships

Trust is the foundation of customer retention. Consistently delivering on promises, providing high-quality products and services, and engaging in transparent communication help in building strong, long-lasting customer relationships. This trust translates into customer loyalty and retention.

Nurturing Customer Loyalty Programs

Implementing loyalty programs is an effective way to reward repeat customers and encourage continued business. These programs can offer discounts, exclusive access, or other perks that not only incentivize purchases but also enhance the customer experience.

A Platform for Growth

A strong base of loyal customers provides a stable platform from which a business can explore new markets, innovate products, and expand services. With a reliable revenue stream from existing customers, businesses can allocate resources toward growth opportunities with greater confidence.

 

The significance of customer retention extends across various facets of your business, from enhancing your bottom line to influencing your marketing strategies, including SEO. It also plays a pivotal role in optimizing your sales costs and elevating the quality of your customer service. For more insights into customer retention, explore the resources linked below:

Retain Customers Photo via Shutterstock



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Apple’s 2023 App Store Awards Spotlight 14 Apps and Games

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The 2023 App Store Awards are a significant highlight as they spotlight 14 apps and games, each embodying innovation, creativity, and cultural impact, offering small business owners unique insights into the ever-evolving digital marketplace.

Apple CEO Tim Cook praises the winners for their ingenuity and quality, stating, “It’s inspiring to see the ways developers continue to build incredible apps and games that are redefining the world around us.” This sentiment is a beacon for small business owners striving to leverage digital tools for growth and customer engagement.

The Winners: A Diverse Range of Apps and Games

AllTrails, awarded the iPhone App of the Year, exemplifies how apps can foster community engagement. Its trail guides and outdoor exploration features are not just for adventure seekers but also offer business insights into user engagement and community building.

For creative professionals and businesses, the Prêt-à-Makeup app on iPad stands out. As the iPad App of the Year, it offers a glimpse into the future of digital interfaces in the beauty industry, emphasizing inclusivity and self-expression.

On the Apple Watch, SmartGym takes the crown, showcasing how health and wellness apps can be innovatively integrated into daily life – a growing market for businesses in the fitness sector.

Gaming: A New Frontier for Storytelling and Engagement

In the gaming category, titles like Honkai: Star Rail (iPhone Game of the Year) and Lost in Play (iPad Game of the Year) demonstrate the power of narrative and imaginative gameplay. These games highlight how engaging storytelling and user experience can captivate audiences, an essential lesson for businesses aiming to make a lasting impression in the digital space.

Cultural Impact: Driving Positive Change

This year’s Cultural Impact winners, including apps like Pok Pok and Too Good To Go, showcase how apps can drive societal change. These winners exemplify how businesses can align with social causes and sustainability, resonating with modern consumers who favor brands with a purpose.

The Trend of the Year: Generative AI

2023 has also been marked as the year of generative AI in the App Store. This trend highlights the burgeoning role of AI in app development, offering small businesses a glimpse into the future of automated, intelligent solutions.

The 2023 App Store Awards winners not only reflect technical brilliance and creativity but also offer small business owners valuable insights into market trends, user engagement, and the potential of digital platforms. As the App Store continues to be a cornerstone of the digital economy, its role in shaping and inspiring small businesses remains more significant than ever.

Image: Apple




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Become an Amazon Flex Driver to Earn Cash

Become an Amazon Flex Driver to Earn Cash

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Starting as an Amazon Flex driver offers an effective and flexible strategy to supplement your income. Whether you’re looking to fund an exotic vacation, make steady progress towards eliminating student loans, or meet other financial milestones, this role can act as a catalyst.

The beauty of being an Amazon Flex driver is the ability to choose how much time you wish to dedicate to this work.

As independent contractors, Amazon Flex drivers select delivery “blocks” of time when they’re available to pick up and deliver packages, with these blocks ranging anywhere from 2 hours to a whole day.

What is Amazon Flex?

Amazon Flex is a delivery program that is essentially Amazon freelance. Drivers pick up and deliver packages, using their own vehicles. Packages are picked up at delivery stations.

Amazon Flex serves as a freelance opportunity for drivers. They use their personal vehicles to pick up packages from delivery stations and ensure they reach the customers on time.

However, the job isn’t limited to delivering products purchased from Amazon. Flex drivers also handle orders from Prime Now, Amazon Fresh, and other stores.

To qualify, drivers must be at least 21 years old, and provide a valid driver’s license and social security number.

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How Much Do You Make with Amazon Flex?

Embracing the Amazon Flex job can prove more financially rewarding than most typical part-time work.

Expect to earn significantly more than the minimum wage.

However, you should account for your own vehicle expenses, including maintenance and fuel costs. As independent contractors, drivers can conveniently deduct these costs during tax filing.

Typically, an Amazon Flex driver can expect to earn from $18 to $25 per hour. Additionally, the role offers eligibility for special benefits that can boost your purchasing power.

How to Become an Amazon Flex Driver and Start Delivering Packages

Before you embark on this journey, ensure that Amazon Flex delivery routes are available in your locality. Although routes are currently available in 13 major cities, Amazon is proactively expanding its service areas and recruiting more drivers.

Check the list at https://www.flex.amazon.com/lets-drive.

become an amazon flex delivery driver

9 Crucial Steps

1. Make Sure You Meet the Requirements for Amazon Deliveries

Here’s a basic list to get you started as an independent contractor, Amazon flex driver:

  • Android or iPhone
  • Midsized sedan, SUV, truck or van, with all required registration and auto insurance. In some cities, such as New York City, you may need to add commercial vehicle registration and insurance. If you drive a truck, it must have a covered bed. You can use a rental or borrowed vehicle as long as it meets the requirements.
  • Valid driver’s license

No vehicle? In some areas, an Amazon Flex delivery drivers may use a bicycle. The bicycle must have a basket and the rider must wear a helmet. No motorized bicycles, motorcycles or scooters are allowed.

2. Do You Have the Necessary Equipment to Work for Amazon?

Android or iPhone, operating on version 6.0 or higher, with a minimum of 2 GB of RAM. It should also have a camera with a flash and support GPS navigation.

As for vehicle insurance, Amazon requires liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and comprehensive and collision coverage.

A four-door midsize car is usually recommended due to the ample cargo space it offers for packages.

become an amazon flex delivery driver phone

3. Download the Amazon Flex App

The Amazon Flex App serves as your personal command center as an Amazon Flex driver. It’s the conduit through which you receive all essential information and updates.

You’ll plan your delivery routes, select the suitable job slots, and keep tabs on your earnings directly from this app.

Crucially, you’ll also receive live updates during your delivery process – information about additional deliveries that might have cropped up, particularly with services like Amazon Fresh and Prime Now.

Finally, the Amazon Flex App handles your compensation by facilitating direct deposits to your designated Amazon Flex debit card twice a week.

4. Complete the Amazon Signup Tutorial

After you’ve successfully installed the app, you’re required to complete an interactive signup tutorial. This step-by-step guide acquaints you with the app’s functionalities and provides essential insights into the job.

The tutorial is designed to help you swiftly get a grip on the necessary tasks and expectations. If you run into issues during the download or need assistance with the tutorial, Amazon Flex support is readily available at 888-281-6906 from 9 am to 9 pm EST.

Moreover, within the app, you can access a library of concise training videos aimed at aiding new drivers.

5. Pass a Background Check

Amazon takes the safety of its customers and integrity of its services very seriously. To this end, all potential drivers are subject to a thorough background check carried out by Accurate Background.

This process involves verifying your driving record for any moving violations and checking your criminal record for the past seven years. The aim is to ensure that you’re a responsible driver and trustworthy individual.

The duration of the background check typically varies, but you can expect to hear back anywhere between 2 to 5 days.

6. Schedule Amazon Delivery Blocks and Availability

Once you’ve cleared the background check, you can start setting up your work schedule using the app.

Amazon operates on a ‘delivery block’ system, and you can choose blocks that fit your availability. A delivery block estimates the time it will take for you to complete the deliveries.

You’ll find blocks varying from a minimum of 2 hours (for Prime Now and Amazon Fresh) to 3 hours for Amazon.com deliveries.

These blocks provide you with a fair estimate of the expected duration and the potential earnings per hour, although actual compensation can vary.

7. Pick Up the Packages from the Amazon Delivery Station

Next, you’ll head over to the nearest Amazon delivery station, which might be a warehouse, to pick up the packages for your chosen block.

It’s important to remember that your earning clock starts ticking once you begin deliveries, not during the commute from the station to your first drop-off. Keep this in mind when calculating your expected earnings and associated travel expenses.

become an amazon flex delivery driver parcels

8. Deliver Amazon Packages

During your chosen block, you’ll make deliveries to customers, guided by the Amazon Flex app’s GPS navigation.

As you successfully deliver each package, you’ll take a photo of the delivered package and upload it to the app. This serves as a digital proof of delivery, ensuring there’s a record of each delivery within the block you’ve completed.

This verification process helps maintain transparency and accountability for both the driver and Amazon.

9. Earn Extra Cash and Get Paid

With Amazon Flex, your earnings will be deposited directly onto your Amazon Flex debit card twice a week.

But the benefits don’t end there. Once you have an Amazon Flex debit card, you’ll gain access to a range of discounts, accumulate points with each delivery block completed, and earn cash back on purchases made with the card.

This card is accepted at over 19,000 ATMs nationwide, allowing you to conveniently withdraw your earnings or transfer them to your personal bank account.

How does the Amazon Flex Job Work?

Let’s review:

  • Make sure you have the right equipment needed by Amazon flex drivers, such as the right kind of phone and car.
  • Use the Amazon app to find an available block or blocks to deliver. Using the app is like interacting with a supervisor.
  • Pick up packages at an Amazon delivery station (pickup location) near your location. The station may be a warehouse.
  • Take images of deliveries, proving packages left at the correct location.
  • Work with a smile, knowing you are making money as the deliveries are completed.

Navigating the Amazon Flex App

The Amazon app is fairly straightforward, with a design aimed at making your job as a driver easier and more efficient.

It’s your one-stop-shop for everything from tracking pending deliveries to recording completed ones by location.

The app is also your personal finance portal, processing and tracking your earnings.

For new drivers, the app offers a trove of resources, including comprehensive tutorials covering every aspect of being a delivery driver.

Plus, in case of any additional questions or issues, you can easily reach an Amazon Flex associate via the app for assistance.

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Pros of Working for Amazon Flex

  • You get a pay twice a week. You start earning money the first week. In addition to your earnings, you can keep tips.
  • You can choose a schedule that fits for you. There are many options.
  • You don’t need a big delivery vehicle; you can use your car in most cases, if it’s big enough to hold the packages.
  • With the Amazon debit card you can get access to special Amazon discounts and earn cash back.
  • You can get cash from the debit card at ATMs. You can use the card to make a deposit to your bank account.
  • Your block is your block. You’ll get familiar with the area and the work. Once you’ve claimed the location, it is yours as long as you complete the work.
  • The app has many menu options. Any and all questions can be answered. If you are in the field, you can get questions answered immediately.

Cons of Amazon Flex

  • You are not reimbursed for wear and tear on your car.
  • Your block is your block – although you’re a contractor, you are responsible for availability to do the work on a daily basis.
  • The work is not available in all cities.
  • You may have to up your insurance coverage to higher than you currently carry.
  • The “best” blocks near your best pickup location may already be taken.
  • You may take a passenger but the passenger may not help with the work.

Security Benefits of Being an Amazon Flex Driver

One of the standout advantages of being an Amazon Flex driver is the security aspect, which is bolstered by Amazon’s robust and sophisticated security infrastructure. As part of the Amazon ecosystem, Flex drivers benefit from some of the most advanced security services available in the world. This includes:

  • Data Protection: Your personal information, from your driver’s license to your social security number, is safeguarded by Amazon’s comprehensive data security protocols.
  • Fraud Prevention: Amazon employs cutting-edge measures to prevent fraudulent activities. This includes the use of biometric verification like selfies, which are used for identity confirmation and fraud investigation purposes.
  • Trust and Safety: Amazon’s security measures extend to ensuring the trust and safety of both drivers and customers. The company’s commitment to security helps in creating a safe working environment for drivers and a reliable service for customers.

Diverse Delivery Options in Amazon Flex

Amazon Flex offers more than just package delivery from Amazon. It encompasses a variety of delivery services, each with unique features and requirements, providing drivers with diverse opportunities. These include:

  • Prime Now Deliveries: These are quick-turnaround deliveries available only to Amazon Prime members. As a Flex driver, you’ll handle one or two-hour delivery windows, which are often competitive due to the potential for tips. This service requires efficiency and speed.
  • Amazon Fresh: This service involves delivering groceries and requires regular interaction with customers. The orders are filled at the distribution center, and drivers then deliver these groceries directly to customers or a pickup location. The delivery blocks for Amazon Fresh typically range from 2 to 4 hours.
  • Store Orders: Flex drivers also pick up items from local stores and deliver them directly to customers. Like Amazon Fresh, these delivery blocks usually span 2 to 4 hours.
  • Instant Offers: Available in selected cities, these are quick delivery jobs that usually last between 15 to 45 minutes. They are often in proximity to Prime Now and Whole Foods locations and require the driver to be close to these spots to receive offers.

Amazon Flex Vs. Postmates

Postmates is another company that is part of the gig economy of using many temporary drivers. Here are some comparisons:

With Postmates, there’s no set schedule of jobs. You log on to the site whenever you are available.

Deliveries are assigned a flat fee and a gas mileage rate.

Deliveries can be made by walking, driving a car or bicycling.

With the Postmates company, independent workers typically make from $10 to $18 per hour. You can keep tips in addition to your per hour earnings.

Amazon Flex Vs. Doordash

Doordash deliveries can also be made by walking, bicycling or driving a car. As with Postmates, there is no car size requirement. Obviously, don’t choose the delivery if it won’t fit in your car.

There is no set schedule. You log on to the site when available.

Doordash if most frequently used for grocery orders.

Doordash jobs pay a flat fee, which ranges from $6 to $10 per delivery. Depending on what’s available when you log on to the site, you should make from $10 to $16 per hour. You can keep tips in addition to your per hour pay.

Here’s a handy comparison of these three options:

Amazon Flex Postmates Doordash
Availability of Jobs Set schedule of delivery blocks available for drivers to choose from. No set schedule – drivers can log on to the site whenever they are available. No set schedule – drivers log on to the site when available.
Delivery Method Deliveries are made using a driver’s own vehicle, typically requiring a four-door car for cargo space. Deliveries can be made by walking, driving a car, or bicycling. Deliveries can be made by walking, bicycling, or driving a car. No specific car size requirement.
Earnings Drivers typically earn from $18 to $25 per hour. No mention of tips. Drivers typically earn from $10 to $18 per hour. Tips are kept in addition to hourly earnings. Drivers earn a flat fee ranging from $6 to $10 per delivery. Total earnings typically range from $10 to $16 per hour. Tips are kept in addition to hourly pay.
Delivery Type Drivers deliver packages from Amazon, including orders from Amazon Fresh and Prime Now. Flat fee assigned for each delivery along with a gas mileage rate. Most frequently used for grocery orders.
Compensation Model Paid bi-weekly via Amazon Flex app. Paid per delivery, with Instant Pay available. Paid per delivery, weekly or daily cashout available. Tips included.

Where is Amazon flex available?

Currently Amazon Flex is available in: Atlanta, New York City (Brooklyn and Manhattan), Portland (Oregon), Virginia Beach, Austin, Dallas, Miami, San Francisco, Boston, Los Angeles (Irvine and Hawthorne), Orlando and Tampa Bay.

Expansions are in the works for Seattle, Detroit, Worcester (Massachusetts),Boise (Idaho), and additional areas of New York City. If this is not an option, you can look into how to start an Amazon DSP business as an alternative.

Is working as an Amazon Flex driver a good job?

If you’re a self-disciplined freelance worker who like a schedule, it’s a great way to earn extra money.

You can count on getting a deposit of your pay two times a week, start earning money your first week, and you can keep tips.

become an amazon flex delivery driver

Does Amazon Flex pay for gas?

No, Amazon Flex does not pay for gas. But that doesn’t mean fuel costs are money down the drain.

As long as you keep mileage records, you can claim gas costs when you file taxes. You can also claim certain related costs.

So, while you don’t get pay for gas, it is possible to make up the difference when you file taxes.

Do you make your own hours with Amazon Flex?

In a way, yes. You choose the blocks when you are available. And the blocks are typically set for deliveries to be made within a certain time frame.

So, when you choose a block you are choosing the hours that work best for you.

Does Amazon Flex pay include tips?

The money you receive from Amazon through the Flex site doesn’t add on tips. But many customers may add tips to your pay, and you can keep that money.

Image: Depositphotos


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What is a Mobile Hotspot and How Does it Work?

What is a Mobile Hotspot and How Does it Work?

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A mobile hotspot is a technology that allows you to get on the internet for work or entertainment. You can use a cell phone hotspot or dedicated hotspot devices. That choice depends on your specific needs for internet access. Let’s start with basic definitions.

what is a mobile hotspot

What is a Mobile Hotspot?

A mobile hotspot is a portable device or feature on a smartphone that provides internet connectivity to other devices like laptops, tablets, or other smartphones.

It essentially creates a small, localized Wi-Fi network that multiple devices can connect to, allowing them to access the internet using the cellular data connection of the mobile hotspot device.

what is a mobile hotspot

Understanding the Technology Behind Mobile Hotspots

Mobile hotspots use cellular technology, such as 4G LTE or 5G, to connect to the internet. When activated, the device acts as a router, broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal to which other devices can connect.

Data requests from these connected devices are routed through the cellular network to access the internet.

what is a mobile hotspot

Mobile Hotspot vs. Wi-Fi Hotspot

Mobile hotspots and Wi-Fi hotspots essentially serve the same purpose, but there are differences:

  • Mobile Hotspot: Pros – Portability, doesn’t rely on external Wi-Fi networks, can work in remote areas. Cons – Limited data plans may drain smartphone batteries if used on the phone.
  • Wi-Fi Hotspot: Pros – Wi-fi hotspots are typically more reliable and faster if connected to a high-speed broadband connection. Cons – Limited to locations with Wi-Fi access, not as portable.

Types of Mobile Hotspot Devices

Mobile hotspots can be created using smartphones, dedicated mobile hotspot devices (Mi-Fi or Jetpacks), and some tablets or laptops with built-in mobile hotspot functionality.

what is a mobile hotspot

What is a Mobile Hotspot Used for?

Mobile hotspots are useful in various scenarios:

  • Business travelers need internet access on the go.
  • Remote workers in areas with unreliable Wi-Fi.
  • Small business owners at trade shows or outdoor events.
  • Emergency backup internet in case of network outages.
Use Case Description Ideal Settings Tips for Optimization
Remote Work Access internet for work purposes when away from a stable connection. Outdoor locations, coffee shops, or while traveling. Ensure secure connections and prioritize tasks requiring more bandwidth.
Online Learning Attend virtual classes or access educational resources. Areas without Wi-Fi, like parks or in a vehicle. Use during off-peak hours for better speed, and ensure device charging options.
Travel Connectivity Stay connected for navigation, bookings, and communication while traveling. Road trips, overseas travel, or in remote areas. Keep a power bank handy and monitor data usage to avoid overages.
Backup Internet Use as a backup when primary internet connection fails. Home or small office settings. Test the hotspot regularly to ensure it’s ready for emergency use.
Streaming Media Stream music, videos, or podcasts. Locations without Wi-Fi, like in a car or at a campsite. Optimize streaming quality settings to conserve data usage.
Gaming Online gaming on consoles or mobile devices. Any location without a stable Wi-Fi connection. Use Ethernet cable if possible for stability and reduce background data usage.
Business Meetings Conduct video calls or virtual meetings. Business trips, co-working spaces, or in transit. Ensure a quiet environment and good lighting for video calls.
Outdoor Events Provide internet access for events like fairs, markets, or outdoor weddings. Event locations without Wi-Fi facilities. Place the hotspot in an elevated position for wider coverage.
File Sharing Upload or download large files when away from office networks. Fieldwork locations, client sites.

what is a mobile hotspot

Dedicated Mobile Hotspots vs. Cell Phone Hotspots

The choice depends on your specific needs:

  • Cell Phone Hotspot: Convenient if you already have a smartphone, but it may drain your phone’s battery faster.
  • Dedicated Mobile Hotspot: Designed for this purpose, it offers longer battery life and can connect more devices, making it ideal for heavy use.

what is a mobile hotspot

Is a Mobile Hotspot Needed?

When is a mobile hotspot needed? Using a mobile hotspot can save you money and also ensure that you remain connected even when traveling.

Consider the following factors:

  • Data requirements and data plan cost.
  • Portability and convenience.
  • Battery life (if using a smartphone).
  • Network coverage in the area.
  • Speed and reliability of the connection.

what is a mobile hotspot

Unlimited Hotspot Data Plans

Some mobile carriers offer unlimited data plans that include a certain amount of high-speed hotspot data before throttling the speed. In other words, the data plan is unlimited, but the amount of time you can enjoy high-speed data is limited.

The availability of these plans varies by carrier and location, so you should check with your carrier for the latest options.

what is a mobile hotspot

Mobile Hotspots on Cell Phones

The process of how to turn your phone into a hotspot can vary slightly depending on your phone’s operating system, but in general:

  • On Android: Go to Settings > Network & internet > Hotspot & tethering > Portable hotspot. Turn it on and configure the settings.
  • On iPhone: Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot, then turn it on and set up the hotspot options.

Setting Up a Wireless Network with a Phone Hotspot

Once you’ve enabled the mobile hotspot on your phone, other devices can connect to it as if it were a regular Wi-Fi network. Simply go to the Wi-Fi settings on the device you want to connect and select your phone’s hotspot network from the available options.

You may need to enter the hotspot’s password if you’ve set one. You should have a password to protect your wireless network. Understanding the benefits of offering free wifi can also be advantageous, especially for small business owners or professionals who frequently host clients and meetings.

what is a mobile hotspot

Managing Hotspot Data

To manage hotspot data effectively, monitor your data usage regularly through your carrier’s app or settings on your phone. Be aware of your data plan limits to avoid overage charges. You can also set data usage warnings or limits on your phone to help you stay within your plan’s limits.

what is a mobile hotspot

Choosing the Right Hotspot Device for Your Needs

Consider factors like network coverage in your area, the number of devices you need to connect, battery life, and data plan pricing. As a basic guideline, choose a dedicated hotspot device for heavy use and a smartphone hotspot for occasional use. Read reviews and check for promotions or deals from carriers.

FAQs: What is a Mobile Hotspot?

What is a Personal Hotspot?

A personal hotspot is another name for the mobile hotspot that you set up on your smart phone or mobile device. A mobile hotspot is a portable device or feature on a smartphone that provides internet connectivity to other devices like laptops, tablets, or other smartphones.

It essentially creates a small, localized Wi-Fi network that multiple devices can connect to, allowing them to access the internet using the cellular data connection of the mobile hotspot device.

How Secure Are Mobile Hotspots?

Mobile hotspots are generally secure, as they use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption to protect the connection. However, it’s essential to use a strong, unique password and avoid public Wi-Fi spots when possible to minimize security risks.

How Does a Wireless Access Point Differ From a Mobile Hotspot?

A wireless access point (WAP) is a stationary device that connects to a wired network and provides Wi-Fi connectivity in a specific location, such as an office. A mobile hotspot, as discussed earlier, is portable and uses cellular data to provide internet access on the go.

What Affects the Speed of a Mobile Hotspot?

The speed of a mobile hotspot can be affected by factors like your proximity to a cellular tower, network congestion, the quality of your device’s hardware, and the data plan you’re using. Although plans are called Unlimited, and do provide data, the speed at which the data is delivered can be slowed, or throttled, after you reach a certain data usage limit.

Can Mobile Hotspots Work with Any Cellular Network?

The compatibility of mobile hotspots with different cellular networks and phones may vary. Ensure that your hotspot device is unlocked or compatible with your chosen network. Not all phones can function as mobile hotspots, so check with your carrier and phone manufacturer for specifics.

Image: Depositphotos, Envato Elements




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TikTok’s Artist Account GivesMusic Makers a New Outlet

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TikTok has introduced the Artist Account, which is designed to transform how musicians and small business owners in the music industry interact with their audience and promote their work.

The Artist Account: A New Era of Music Discovery

TikTok, already a powerhouse for music discovery, is enhancing this journey with the Artist Account. This feature suite, as explained by Paul Hourican, Global Head of Music Partnerships & Programming at TikTok, is set to “empower artists by providing them with the tools they need to reach new heights on TikTok.” This development is particularly crucial for independent artists and small music businesses, offering them a platform to compete on a level playing field.

Key Features Tailored for Growth and Engagement

  1. Artist Tag: A simple yet powerful tool, the Artist Tag, will appear under the account name, signaling the TikTok community and potential new fans that the user is an artist. Eligibility requires having four songs uploaded.
  2. New Release Tool: This feature allows artists to spotlight a new track for up to 14 days before and 30 days after its release, thereby amplifying its reach. This tool was successfully trialed by BTS, highlighting its effectiveness.
  3. Music Tab: A curated tab on the artist’s profile, making it easier for fans to access and discover their music.
  4. By Artist Feature: It lets artists pin a preferred post to the discovery page top, enhancing visibility for a chosen TikTok video or new release.
  5. Behind the Song: This feature allows artists to share the stories and inspirations behind their songs, deepening the connection with their audience.

Impact on Small Business Owners in the Music Industry

For small business owners in the music industry, such as independent labels, producers, and emerging artists, the Artist Account offers a significant opportunity. It’s a digital marketing tool that can elevate their music’s visibility without the hefty costs typically associated with promotion. Cat Burns, an artist who has utilized these features, shared, “The new artist features have helped me to connect to fans in different ways…being able to highlight new releases makes it easier for me to introduce my newer songs.”

TikTok’s Artist Account is more than just a new feature; it’s a potential game changer for small business owners in the music industry. It levels the playing field, allowing independent artists and small labels to harness the power of TikTok’s vast audience for music discovery and engagement. This development not only empowers artists but also contributes to a more diverse and vibrant musical landscape on the platform. For small business owners in the music industry, embracing this new tool could be the key to unlocking unprecedented growth and engagement in the digital age.

Image: Tiktok




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