Reevaluate How You Engage at Conferences

Great things can come from attending conferences when you approach it inthe right way.

These Tunes Were Written By Artificial Intelligence. Can You Hear the Difference?

An A.I. learned to compose traditional folk tunes that sound anything but digital.

How to Make Any Job Interview (Instantly) Less Awkward on the Phone

This one tip will put you and the hiring manager at ease.

20 Inspiring Quotes to Help You Rise Above Failure and Fulfill Your Dreams

Success may be sweet, but failure is essential. Here are 20 inspiring quotes from famous people about the value of failing.

These Three Indicators May Be Projecting The Next Financial Collapse

While there is nomagic indicator of the the market's future these three may provide some of the best insight into the current state of the market.

3 Apps to Help You Avoid a Major Twitter Fail (They Could Have Even Helped Elon Musk)

Elon Musk might never use these apps. The rest of us? They could save a lot of headaches.

Want To Make Faster Decisions Like Amazon? Jeff Bezos Asks One Simple Question.

The simple truth is you can be an innovator, a follower or out of business.

20 Inspiring Quotes From the Most Successful People

Here's a list of twenty powerful and inspirational quotes that every entrepreneur and leader should read.

This Startup Is Using AI to Help Nonprofits Raise More Money

Nonprofits have used spreadsheets and CRM systems to track potential donors. This startup is using AI to help them do their job better.

This Fortune 500 Exec Thinks We Should Stop Trying to Convince Everyone Diversity Matters

Studies have proven that diversity in the workplace, especially the boardroom, drives success. Here is what you should do to promote inclusion.

Tim Ferriss Says This Simple 12-Word Phrase is the Best Advice He Ever Got

Tim Ferriss is an entrepreneur with massive success, and a strong sense of leadership. His advice is valuable.

5 Ways To Fall In Love With Your Job

As a society, we tend to like our weekends to last long and our weeks to go quickly. Why?

American Airlines CEO: More Crowded Planes are 'Much More Comfortable'

Is it all a joke? Is it gaslighting at its finest? Or does he really believe this?

Why Multi-localism Matters and How It Impacts Your Business

Three tips to captivate and engage your audience.

11 Best Social Media Scripts and Plugins to Streamline Your Workflow

4 Principles Of Digital Transformation

Before you can change actions, you must first transform values, beliefs and skills

Want to Manage Your Energy Better and Avoid Burnout? Do These 3 Things

Entrepreneurs have a lot on the plate which leads to experiencing burnout and chronic fatigue. But it doesn't have to be this way with these 3 habits.

How to Draw Natural, Textured, Afro Hairstyles (Afros, Locs, Braids, Twists)

5 Steps Every Marketing Team Should Take to Drive Sales

If sales ain't happy (and enabled), ain't nobody happy.

Delta Air Lines Just Made a Stunning Announcement That Passengers Will Love (American Says It Won't Match It)

One airline thinks of customers. The other, it appears, thinks of money.

18 True Tales of Ridiculous Performance Appraisals

Performance review season is around the corner, and you're not the only one who hates it.

I Went to Starbucks and Its New Open Door Policy Drove Me Out

The law of unintended consequences?

This Sheraton Customer Says He Came Back to His Room and the Hotel Had Put Someone Else in There (and Removed His Things)

This is the story of a nightmare.

Southwest Just Made a Surprising New Announcement (Are They Just Trolling American Airlines?)

It seems like just a little thing really. But if you view it in context, it's a lot more.

Want to Experience More Happiness? Try Any of These 33 Habits of Happy and Successful People

The key is to actually apply these habits into your daily work life.

Best Office Perk Yet? Startup Gives Employees $200 a Month to Go Out on Dates

Employees ofdating app startupHinge go out on dates then pay it back by doing this.

Beloved Chicago Grocery Chain Treasure Island Foods Is Closing After 55 Years

Is Amazon the reason?

Don't Let Guilt Stop You: How to Successfully Take Time Off From Work

If you take a week off, the world will keep spinning--and so will your business. Here's how to make it happen.

In a Bittersweet Week, Tesla Meets Production Goals Just as Elon Musk Must Step Down as Chair

The company made 51,000 Model 3 cars in the third quarter with two days to spare.

The 3 Skills Leaders Need to Succeed in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Successfully implementing key technologies like AI requires considerations beyond modeling & data. New skills may be necessary to ensure success.

In SEC Deal, Elon Musk Steps Down as Tesla Chair for 3 Years. If He'd Faced Reality, It Could Have Been 2

You can't just ignore the federal government.

The Shocking Truth That HR Groups Never Admit

Never mind what it says in your employee handbook. There's a huge hidden agenda.

United Airlines CEO Say Customers Don't Get That Higher Baggage Fees Are For Their Own Good

You see, dear customer, you just don't understand how caring United is.

6 Lessons I Learned Giving Away A Tesla In An Incentive Competition

Contests are brilliant for another reason. Through the process, you immediately have tons of testimonials you can use for the rest of your business life.

7 Reasons to Attend Startup Weekend, Even If Your Business Isn't a Startup

Startup Weekends have been hosted in more than 1,000 cities around the world. Here are 7 reasons to attend a Startup Weekend even if you don't run a startup.

Here's the Stunning New Change JetBlue Says It Has Planned (Passengers on Delta, American and United Already Hate It)

This kind of service is almost intentionally bad. So why is JetBlue going to try it?

15 Best Photoshop Templates for Creative Photo Effects and Quick Picture Styles

Why the CEO of $5 Billion Unicorn Wix Embraces Startup Culture

Startups can learn a lot from large corporations, but large corporations shouldn't ignore startup culture either.

15 Top Sport Video Project Templates for Adobe After Effects

How to Make a Photo Slideshow in Photoshop for Instagram Stories

7 Compelling Reasons to Make Friends With Your Competitors

Small businesses find sharing resources & information between competitors can be mutually beneficial. 7 reasons to get friendly with the competition.

Where Big Money is Made Licensing Product Ideas

It all comes down to distribution.

Get Over Your Fear of Self-Promotion With Advice From These Three Impact-Driven Entrepreneurs

Overcome your barriers to self-promotion with advice from these three impact-driven entrepreneurs

1 Powerful But Simple Technique That Ray Dalio Uses To Make Better Decisions

The playing field is mostly leveled, but there are a few things you can do to separate yourself. And it starts with focusing on these 8 words.

What Are Color Fonts?

What's Next for Steve Blank and the Lean Startup?

The Silicon Valley guru is on a never ending search to find a better way to solve problems

What Is Integrity? +7 Reasons Why It’s So Important in Business

4 Steps You Need to Take Before You Quit Your Job to Start a Company

Find out what you need to have in place before you quit your job to start a business.

5 Things to Consider Before Taking the Plunge Into Freelancing

The life of an independent contractor isn't all sunshine and roses, but the good news is, job satisfaction is up to you.

5 Things Employees Displaying Emotional Intelligence Do When People Push Their Buttons

How do you handle conflict?

12+ Best Sports Team Logos to Quickly Make Online

American Airlines Just Announced It's Changing One of Its Most Popular Perks (Oh, Why This?)

Nothing is sacred when it comes to making money.

5 Useful Ways to Reduce Your Workplace Stress and Anxiety, According to a Mental Health Expert

Your mental health is serious business, and can seriously affect how you perform.

Honda and Acura Recall 1.6 Million Cars Over Faulty Airbags and Backup Cameras

30.7 million cars were recalled in the U.S. last year.

Do You Hate It When a Company Changes Its Name? Turns Out There's a Scientific Explanation

WW, Oath, and Joann, take note.

Ever Notice All Apple Product in Photos Show 9:41 AM? Turns Out There's a Really Good Reason

It's something we can all learn from.

Kevin Hart Didn't Find Success Until People Started Stealing His Work. Here's Why

Popular comedian Kevin Hart tells Oprah Winfrey that his biggest breakthrough came from people bootlegging his precious work, creating his big following

Hands-on With ARIA: Accessibility for eCommerce

This App Will Sell Your Products, Just Ask GaryVee

Plotaverse is revolutionizing the way we see and share photographs and getting 2-8x more engagement.

5 Amazing Assets for Fantastic Fitness Vlogs

The Portrait Photographer's Quick-ish Guide to Lighting Ratios

Why Woz Believes Blockchain Will Grow Innovation

The inventive creators of the world might benefit the most from the new value and trust economy.

This Hot New Source of Talent Could Solve Your People Woes, Says a New LinkedIn Study of 76 Million Jobs

Once you've exhausted all other recruiting channels, try tapping into this rapidly emerging source of new talent.

5 Indispensable Tools for Successful Cold Emailing

Struggling to find success when it comes to cold emails? Here are five worthwhile resources to help you along the way.

These 3 Employee Habits Are Hurting Your Company's Growth

What may seem like great attributes are actually harmful habits. Spot them now before it's too late.

Want to Become a Better Leader? Adopt These 5 Traits

Want your business to thrive in the post-digital era? These are the five leadership traits you'll need in your arsenal.

This 1 Thing Is Stopping You From Making Great Decisions

Decision fatigue accumulates as we go through our day. Learn how to make the best decisions and do more with less.

These 5 Marketing Books Changed How I Do Business

Read these five marketing books to stay ahead of the curve and remain relevant as a founder.

Want to Motivate Someone? Reward Them Immediately, Says New Research From Cornell

Most companies wait until year-end to give bonuses. New research from a marketing professor at Cornell University suggests they should hand them out earlier in the year.

You May Not Need It Now, But You Need to Build Your Communications Team. Here Is Why.

It only takes one major piece of "bad press" to start negating your reputation. Make sure your communications team is in place.

15+ Best Business Proposal Templates: For New Client Projects

4 Tips for Building a Team You Can Trust

One secret to success? Assembling and maintaining a trusted team.

Flying Cars Won't Ever Be Mainstream. Don't Waste Your Money Trying to Create a Startup Around Them

Thinking of investing next year's tax refund in a car with wings? Save your money. This toy for billionaires won't be a transportation game-changer anytime soon.

6 Reasons Your Business Hasn't Grown in Months and How to Fix It

Is your sales stagnant? Has your web traffic remained the same for ages? Perhaps you're doing something wrong.

How to Use Data Analytics to Understand Your Customers and Make More Money

A consumer research guru shares four ways to use data analytics and consumer research to better understand customers and make more money.

How to Use Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type to Your Advantage

If you know your personality traits, you can master career and life challenges that come your way.

Facebook Hack Exposed 50 Million Users' Accounts

The social media site has yet to find the source of the attack.

According to Ray Dalio, Jeff Bezos, and the Dalai Lama, This One Thing Is the Foundation of Trust

We often think of trust as something we inject into a relationship. Not so. Trust is an output built on somethignmuch deeper.

Slack Is Planning for a 2019 IPO at a $7 Billion Valuation

It will most likely take place within the first two quarters of 2019.

3 Things I Learned From Working in My Family's Small Business

Work outside the family business first.

Apple Asks This Simple Interview Question That Gives Them a Glimpse Into Your Soul

InterviewHRProductivityStrategyJoseph PearlmanBusiness Apple Asks This Simple Interview Question That Gives Them A Glimpse Into Your Soul

10 Myths of the Secret Neighborhood Millionaire

When the time comes, will you be able to retire? This wealth management expert says building toward a comfortable retirement is easier than you think.

The SEC's Lawsuit Is Just One of Many Legal Battles Elon Musk Is Fighting

From workplace injuries to defamation, Musk and Tesla are facing a growing list of lawsuits and investigations.

Almost 50 Percent of Hires Are Failures. Here's How to Bounce Back After Letting a Bad Hire Go

Bad hires can have a negative impact on team morale, productivity and overall company profitability. Here's how to ensure bad hires don't have a negative impact on your team.

How to Use Grids in Photoshop to Create a Typographic Poster

Why Did Bezos Do It? An Inside Look at Whole Foods and Amazon

An in-depth look of the Whole Foods Acquisition on the one-year anniversary of this dynamic pairing.

8 Ways to be More Efficient, Get More Done and Have an Awesome Day

Here are a handful of simple things you should be doing every day if you want to get ahead in business and life.

What Is Art Nouveau?

10 Best Photo Effects to Create Blurs, Cracks, and Shattered Glass in Photoshop

Want to Be a Great On-the-Spot Communicator? Learn to Self-Edit.

You won't always have time to get a second set of eyes on yourwriting. Here's how to edit yourself in a pinch.

3 Things We Get Seriously Wrong About Toxic People in the Office

They are pure evil. They are beyond all help. Really? As a leader, avoid these common misconceptions about toxic people. Everyone might benefit in the end--e.g., the good employees.

New App-Only Banks Are Here. Here's How to Know If They're a Good Fit for Your Small Business

The banking industry is primed for a shakeup and it may finally be coming. Here are 7 things to consider when choosing a new online-only bank.

4 Words That Significantly Boost the Odds of Getting the Support You Need From Others

Don't let differences in the team prevent you from being an effective leader.

How to Set an Out of Office Message in Outlook (Automatic Away Reply)

Elon Musk, the SEC, National Coffee Day, and Everything Else You Want to Know Today

The SEC sued Elon Musk. Here are the key takeaways, plus everything else you want to know today.

5 Mindfulness Habits of the Happiest People

Five easy and fast ways to add more mindfulness to your life and enjoy the benefits.

4 Reasons Why Podcasting Is a Strong, Authentic Platform for Your Business

With so much evidence about podcasting benefits and listener loyalty, podcasting for entrepreneurs starts to feel like a no-brainer. Here are five concrete tips to doing it well.

3 Seemingly Easy Things That Are Difficult for Small-Business Employees

Working for a small business isn't always an easy job.

How to Define, Analyze, & Seize a Market Opportunity

Joining Another Company's Board Is a Major Decision. Here's What to Consider Beforehand

Becoming a board member is a commitment of your time and mental energy. The last thing you want to do is join the board of a company you don't feel a connection with or don't fully understand.

How to Ensure You're Getting the Most Out of Your Influencer Marketing Strategy

With more available content than consumers, the influencer bubble is set to burst -- and bring down a score of wannabe entrepreneurs with it.

5 Tips for Building a Startup Culture within an Established Company

Think you have to choose between an energetic startup environment and well-established core values? Choose both!

How to Thrive During a Tough News Cycle

We should be thoughtful businesspeople no matter what the political or economic climate. Here's how to stay focused on the difference you want to make

Want to Become a Self-Made Millionaire? Do This for 30 Minutes Every Day

While exercise may not directly cause success... where self-made millionaires are concerned, the two are definitely linked.

Here's Why Venture Capitalists Are Pouring a Record $1 Billion Into Coffee Startups This Year

The nation officially marks its love affair with caffeine on Sept. 29 every year. This year, investors' infatuation with coffee startups will reach a new peak--more than $1 billion.

This Blood-Sucking Startup Is Coming for You, Millennials

The new clinic might not have a peer reviewed study to back it up, but it already has clients.

5 Signs That Will Instantly Identify Someone With Terrible Leadership Skills

It makes you wonder why we continue to promote these people into leadership roles.

What Do Creative Geniuses Have That Others Don't? Surprisingly, Not Much

Creative genius could be more common than you think. Here's what you need to know to foster genius-level creativity.

20 Best Corporate Stock Videos for Motion Graphics Projects

How This Classic Miles Davis Complement (or Insult!) is the Perfect Gauge for Your Business

The trumpeter Miles Davis was known for his cutting insight as much as his music. His strong feedback of musician Herb Alpert is killer business advice.

50 Habits That Will Make You a Millionaire

If you save, invest, and spend wisely, a million dollars is within reach.

Why This Founder Decided to Scrap Years of Work to Radically Reinvent His Product

As Anthony Caselena grew Squarespace, he was forced to recognize when he could no longer do everything himself--and when it was time to radically reinvent the product he had spent years developing.

The CEO of Boxed Uses This Simple Job Interview Question to Instantly Rule Out Jerks and Idiots

It's rather disarming for job candidates, and that's why it works.

Build an HTML Email Template From Scratch

Will Smith Bungee Jumped From a Helicopter. What Have You Done to Face Your Fears?

Challenged by YouTube stars Yes Theory, Smith finds his bliss.

4 Crucial Things You Must Do to Stay on Good Terms With Your Investors

Congrats on finding investors. Now, how should you keep them happy?

Sick of Spammy Robocalls? Here's the Truly Surprising Thing the FCC Just Did to Fight Them

They say by next year almost half of incoming calls will be scams. At least these guys won't be doing it anymore.

15 Best eCommerce Android App Templates

Top 3 Slideshow Video Templates for Final Cut Pro

7 Weird and Entirely Useless Facts About Coffee

Sure coffee is good for you and everything but did you know about the monkey spit?

So You've Found Some Success! Here's How to Make It a Trend, Not a Fluke.

Your company is in great shape, with strong sales and happy customers. But if your practices aren't sustainable, your success will be fleeting.

5 Amazing Assets for Fantastic Fashion Vlogs

10 Best Collage and Mosaic Templates to Combine Pictures in Photoshop (for Social Media)

What's Real and What's Fake? The Questions You Need to Start Asking

A new look at collective consciousness, your brain and reality that is turning traditional thinking upside down.

Burger King Skewers AI Mania in Hilarious Ads though Hits One Tone-Deaf Note

It's a great marketing combination of wit and latching onto a trend with one potential problem.

The 5 Biggest Bombshells From the SEC's Lawsuit Against Elon Musk

The alleged details are even crazier than you thought.

The SEC Is Suing Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Wants to Ban Him From Running a Public Company

The suit claims that Musk's tweet about taking Tesla private was "false and misleading."

5 Ways to Make a Small Team More Efficient

The truth is that when you work with a lean team, there's always more work to be done than people to do it. Here's how to get the most of every member of your team.

Is Your Candidate A Culture-Faker?

Ask these questions during the interview to find out.

Ten Years Ago I Published My First Major Book. Here Are the Secrets I Learned After Having Best-Sellers

Writing a book is still one of the most powerful moves an entrepreneur can make. After a few best-sellers, I have learned 3 big secrets to making an impact

4 Strategies to Prepare for a Lateral Career Move

Thinking of making a sideways move in your career? Here a several items to take into consideration to make the transition possible (and a bit easier).

5 Things You Need to Know About Raising Startup Funds

Think of the process as a machine.

Hiring Unpaid Interns? 3 Things You May Not Have Considered...but really should

Hiring Unpaid Interns? 3 Things You May Not Have Considered...but really should

How to Make a Terrifying Zombie Portrait in Photoshop

Do You Budget Like a Millennial, a Gen-Xer, or Both? Here's How to Know

I'm a 'Xennial.' Here's how I manage my personal finances.

Here's Exactly How Brands and Influencers Should Disclose Sponsored Content

Thought you could just hashtag it #spon? Better hope the FTC doesn't spot that gram. Save yourself the hassle (and the fines!) by handling influencer content like a savvy marketer.

Microsoft Just Announced Four New Reasons Why It's Already 2028

microsoft, office, office 365, microsoft 365, AI, hololens, excel, word powerpoint

What New York City's 'Typewriter Boom' Can Tell You About Connecting With Your Audience

Sometimes, high-tech and instantaneous isn't the best way to lead

It's Official: Kids' Most Valuable Learning Is Happening Outside the Classroom

The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs report is out, and the skills outlook for 2022 is... interesting.

Create Custom Maps With the MapSVG Plugin

Stanford Professor: How Great Leaders Give Their Teams 'Hierarchical Agility'

Leading teams is an essential aspect of management in any organization, whether it's a five-person startup or a sprawling multinational.

Knowing When it's Time for You and (Your Business) to Get Out There and Network

Networking, conventions, small business owners, make connections, build relationships, Where to start and how to get the most of your networking experience

How to Negotiate a Better Salary in Just 2 Simple Sentences

Put on your negotiation shoes. Get closer to your desired salary.

Online Payment Company Stripe Just Raised a $245 Million Funding Round Valuing the Startup at $20 Billion

The new money will be going toward building out Stripe's international payments network.

Amazon Knows You Like Online Reviews. But Will You Like Them Offline, Too?

The e-commerce giant is rapidly expanding its presence in the offline world.

A New NAFTA Is Coming. Here's What You Need to Know

The wait is nearly over for American companies anxious to learn about how the new trade treaty will change the way they do business.

5 Fears That Sabotage Your Success (and How to Stop Them)

Stop sabotaging yourself and limiting your true greatness.

How This Company Grew by 30% with Fewer Salespeople

Follow these three steps to achieve remarkable growth while still having fun.

Is Two-Factor Authentication a Silver Bullet or Lead Balloon for Cybersecurity?

Hackers are everywhere. Two-factor authentication is a crucial tool for holding them at bay, yet many companies don't use it.

If You Win Every Job You're Too Cheap

It might feel counter-intuitive, but it's true.

A Round-Up of the Best Health and Wellness Apps to Keep You Fit and Calm

A healthy mind and body facilitates emotional resilience.

4 Simple Things You Can Do To Lead With Integrity

Business integrity is a lost art. It's time to bring it back. Are you following these 4 integrity non-negotiables?

A United Airlines Flight Attendant Told a Mom Babies Are Only Allowed to Cry For 5 Minutes (In Business Class, That Is)

Should customer service tolerance extend to babies in the posh seats?

How to Create a Hand-Lettered T-Shirt Design in Adobe Illustrator

Powerful Career and Startup Advice from 6 Highly Successful Leaders

Real life advice from six leaders who have reached incredible success and want to give back to you.

Tips to Optimize Your Business for Voice Search

Consumers are increasingly searching for businesses through voice assistants.

How to Group Objects, Items, & Pictures in PowerPoint (In 60 Seconds)

10 Ways You Bring The Spirit Of Halloween To Your Business

Halloween is coming--here's how you can incorporate the spirit of the season in your marketing efforts this Fall.

Amazon's New Store Has a Gigantic Built-In Advantage (and Only Amazon Could Have Dreamed It Up)

It's called Amazon 4-star.

How to Build Serverless GraphQL and REST APIs Using AWS Amplify

1 Crucial Thing You Need to Know Before Buying a New Business

Entrepreneurs often wonder whether it's better to start a business from scratch or get a head start and buy an existing business.

Court: In-N-Out Doesn't Have the Right to Control Employee Uniforms

The NLRB is serious about workers' right to concerted activity.

The Best Way to Ask for Help (And Actually Get It)

Reaching out for help? Here's the best way.

4 Lessons You Can Learn From Author Elizabeth Gilbert About Creativity in Business

Elizabeth Gilbert shares lessons on how the process of creativity can benefit both you and your business.

Amazon Just Donated $1 Million to Wikipedia. Here's Why It Matters

No man (or company) is an island.

3 Tips to Picking the Best Swag for Your Business (Hint: It isn't Stickers)

3 Tips to Picking the Best Swag for Your Business (Hint: It isn't Stickers). Want the perfect swagto make your company stand out? Ditch the stickers and candy, and think about filling your customer's immediate needs.

Squarespace Describes Their Pivotal, Make-or-Break Marketing Move

When it came to marketing, Squarespace founder Anthony Casalena decided to go big. He describes the company's pivotal journey to making a Super Bowl commercial.

How Anthony Casalena Built Squarespace From a Dorm Room (Thanks to $30,000 from His Parents)

Anthony Casalena describes the journey of launching Squarespace, growing from his college dorm room in 2006 to having more than 800 employees today, and the pivotal decision to make a Super Bowl commercial.

Want to Sell More? Stop Thinking About Sales

Your mindset matters more than you think.

Two Women Just Made History As the First Female Duo Announcing NFL Games (Reactions Aren't As Inspiring)

It's long overdue, excellent news. But some of the reactions are exasperating.

17 Quotes About the Remarkable Power of Reading

To put it quite simply, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." -- Dr. Seuss.

New Short Course: A Designer’s Guide to Cookies

These 4 Traits Determine Whether a Company Will Dominate Its Industry

A failure to change can more simply be explained as a failure to grow.

How Can You Tell When a Leader Truly Walks the Talk? You'll See 5 Inspiring Things Happen Daily

This helps to challenge our beliefs and assumptions about what real leaders actually do best.

3 Ways to Make Contacting Your Customer Support Department a Delightful Experience

It starts with treating your customers like you do your best friends.

Google Did Some Internal Research and Found Its Top-Performing Teams All Had These 5 Traits

There are five critical questions every manager should ask their team.

There Is Actually a Startup in New York City That Only Employs Grandmas to Hand-Knit Beanies

Wooln's cozy handmade accessories are made by grandmas--and only grandmas.

Royalty-Free Music for Personal Projects and Commercial Use

Dunkin' Donuts Is Changing Its Name and It's Just Confusing

Just what are we supposed to be dunking?

Here's Why Warren Buffett Recommend Prioritizing The Process Not The Result

Here's why your actions are far more important that your outcomes.

This 1 Simple Approach Makes Negative Feedback More Appealing

Avoid disguising critical feedback with empty praise.

Follow These 6 Essential Steps to Turn Leads Into Paying Customers

A disciplined process can help you get the biggest sales payoff by feeding well-qualified leads to account executives

Airbnb Wants to Give Equity to Its Hosts. Here's What That Means for the Gig Economy

Airbnb has petitioned to be able to offer stock to its hosts. If approved, other gig economy businesses might follow suit. But would that be a good idea for those who hire contractors? Answer these six questions before deciding.

The CEO of LinkedIn Says This Is the No. 1 Reason Why Most Employees Quit

CEO of LinkedIn Jeff Weiner says a sense of belonging is missing for most workers who quit their jobs.

Elon Musk Thinks One of His Companies Is Going to Fail. Here's Why He's Building It Anyway

Elon Musk teaches entrepreneurs why it's okay to fail, and why it's an important step towards new innovation and discovery.

Why You Should Never Hire a Publicist

I've been emailed hundreds of so-called "story pitches." About 3 percent are worth considering. At best.

Will Smith Jumping Out of a Helicopter Over the Grand Canyon, Shows the Perfect Way to Produce Remarkable Customer Experiences

You don't have to be a movie star to deliver remarkable experiences that delight your customers.

4 Ways to Stay Calm Under Intense Pressure

If You Want To Be Successful In Business - Or Fishing - Remember Not To Choke

Obama Says These 3 Things Are Crucial for a Successful Business

Here's Obama's advice for startups to make a greater impact.

Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie, and What Should Take Its Place

Work-Life Balance is something many strive for, but what does that mean exactly? Does one measure the amount of time, energy, passion spent at each? How about we just live, and let the balance, well, balance itself out.

Didn't Get Promoted? Here Are 5 Ways to Recuperate

Not getting the promotion doesn't mean that all of your doors are closed. There are a few things you can do to help you manage the next steps.

College Students Can Now Study This NFL Team's Business

Students interested in learning about the business of the professional sports industry now have a new option.

How This Novelty Gift Company Gets Open Innovation Right

How Kikkerland Design Inc. practices open innovation to find and develop 300 clever new products each year.

The Anatomy of an Authentic Apology: Here's What to Say When You Mess Up

We all make mistakes. Here's how to get your apology right, the first time.

Strangely, the First Apple Computer and Apple's Stock Have Increased in Value by Nearly the Same Colossal Amount

Getting in early with Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak seems like a good way to have become rich, one way or another.

6 Things Entrepreneurial College Seniors Must Do During Their Final Year

While entrepreneurial college seniors are busy getting school matters wrapped up, here's how they can build a foundation for success.

4 Ways to Make Your Content Marketing Successful in 2019

You need to know whether your strategy will include video, artificial intelligence, SEO or all three.

Why Some Tesla Owners Are Volunteering to Work for Elon Musk

Elon Musk is trying to speed up Tesla sales before the end of the third quarter--with some help from Tesla customers.

Why Baby Boomers and Millennials Are Driving Each Other Crazy at Work (and How to Fix It)

We have to update the old bargain in a way that Boomers can understand and Millennials can use.

Ikea Rolls Out Self-Driving Car Concepts. There's Absolutely Nothing Car-Like About Them

This is Ikea's vision for the future of autonomous self-driving cars.

This Most Important Lesson Parents Teach Successful Kids

Our kids look to us for answers, advice, and guidance, but what if the best advice was letting them figure it out?

Whatsapp Founder Brian Acton Finally Speaks Publicly About His Difficult Relationship With Mark Zuckerberg and Facebook

Mark Zuckerberg told Acton "This is probably the last time you'll ever talk to me."

Want to Be More Likable? Try This Simple Technique, Say Cornell and Yale Researchers

Many people are self-conscious about how others perceive them during and after a conversation. New research should put these concerns to rest.

Bonobos' Departing CEO Shared 1 Truth All Entrepreneurs Need to Know

An entrepreneur's work only keeps growing, unless you choose not to let it.

Any HR Professional Should Consider Brett Kavanaugh's Approach a Nightmare. Here's Why

HR pros are taught to spot someone who lacks this key attribute.

How to Become a More Patient Person (In Both Work & Life)

Raygun APM: Annihilate Performance Issues

13 Tips to Keep Up with the Speed of Change (Without Sacrificing Team Morale)

Markets are changing faster than ever, but your success as a leader still depends on this fundamental leadership skill: the ability to hold others accountable for results.

8 Things That Every Entrepreneur Is Tired of Hearing

A list of the most annoying things you can say to an entrepreneur, and what to say instead.

Anxiety Is Common Among Entrepreneurs. Here Are 4 Tips to Help Soothe Your Nerves

Running a business is hard enough without throwing anxiety into the mix. Here are the top 4 things that I coach our business owners to do when they feel an anxiety attack coming on.

6 Formal Policies Every Startup Should Put in Writing

Formalize processes sooner rather than later to protect your business.

How to Quickly Insert a Calendar in PowerPoint With Templates

Do This 1 Thing to Make Internal Communication More Inclusive

Practical Tips for Effective Design Critique

The Best Job Interview Question Most Interviewers Never Ask

Here's one job interview question only the best candidates will answer well.

1 Tiny Thing That Highly Successful Leaders Do Differently

Leadership garners recognition and fame, but it also has a potential dark side. You can avoid this dark side by addressing this one tiny thing.

Do CEOs Really Want to Learn?

In candid conversations with CEOs, one truth comes to the forefront that answers this question.

This Weird Way We Could All Go to Space is Getting Its First Test in Orbit

Going to orbit without a rocket could be possible, and an experiment in space now could get us all one step closer.

What Exactly Should You Do to Improve Your Happiness? Science Has Some Unique Suggestions You Should Try Out

These techniques can take mere minutes and have a long-lasting impact.

How to Master the Art of Adherence

Follow the adherence equation of focus, competence and passion, and your team will see results start to grow.

Hackathons Aren't Just for Engineers. Here's How to Use Them to Inspire Your Whole Team

The events aren't programmer-only clubs anymore.

Don't Make The Mistake Of Thinking You Can Do Your Boss's Job Better Than He Or She Can. Here's Why.

The great insight I received earlier in my career might surprise you and even make you a little frustrated, but it also ensure you are truly ready to do your boss's job.

7 Valuable Life Skills You Are Teach Your Children, Just by Being an Entrepreneur

An entrepreneur's vision, grit, and entrepreneurial know-how are not lost on their children. Here's what they learn from you each and every day.

Every Entrepreneur Should Hear This Message Warren Buffett Gave His Pilot About Setting Goals

When we set too many goals, our priorities fight each other for our attention. Setting more than three goals is s threat to your own success.

This is the Most Emotionally Stunted Email Reply From a Famous CEO You'll Read This Week (Or Maybe Even This Year)

Why, oh, why would you write something like this?

Millennials Are Setting an Example in This 1 Crucial Area and the Rest of You Just Aren't Listening

So I've been deputed the make sure you get with the program.

Wish Flying Cars Were Real? Uber Just Announced a Real Timeline to Make It Happen

You read that right. As Uber gets more detailed in its plans for flying cars, the reality becomes more vivid.

Want to Improve Your Family Life? Do This Counterintuitive Thing with Your Email Right Now

A new study shows that simply expecting to check work email can have major detrimental effects on your health, well-being, and family relationships.

Hate Giving Negative Feedback? Next Time, Try This Simple 4-Step Method

Learning to give great feedback--both positive and negative--completely alters the effect you have on others.

3 Ways Drawing More Will Make You Smarter (Even If You're Terrible at It)

Even just smileys and stick figures can help you think through tough problems, according to science.

Facebook's 7,500 Moderators Protect You From the Internet's Most Horrifying Content. But Who's Protecting Them?

Allegations that Facebook failed to keep its content moderators safe from the physical and psychological trauma of viewing graphic images shines light on a dark side of the social-media industry.

How to Use Clipping Masks in Adobe Illustrator to Create a Sliced Text Effect

This Company Made $4.5 Million, Thanks to the Most Comfortable Mouthguard Ever

Akervall Technologies landed at no. 2318 on the 2018 Inc. 5000, thanks in part to their SISU Mouthguards. The guards claim to be the thinnest on the market and allow wearers to speak clearly. We put two to the test.

How Do You Know Someone Has True Leadership Qualities? In the End, It Really Boils Down to 1 Word

Fair warning: It may make the H.R. and legal folks at your company a bit nervous.

Google to Say It 'Made Mistakes' at Senate Hearing on Privacy

Amazon, Apple, Twitter, AT&T, and Charter Communications will also testify.

Instagram's Co-Founder is Resigning to Rediscover His Creative Power. Here's Where He's Looking

Neuroscientists have discovered the best environments to find breakthrough ideas.

How to Create a Realistic Wine-Bottle Mockup Template in Adobe Photoshop

7 Easy Ways to Boost Your Immune System, According to Harvard Health

Your success depends on your health, both professionally and personally. You can't thrive as a CEO or a founder if you aren't healthy and thriving.

How to Write an Attention-Grabbing Article on LinkedIn

Take advantage of this platform to show off what you know.

How This Body Armor Business Grew From One Man in a Garage to $5.4 Million

Business broker Todd Meeks knew Spartan Armor Systems would be a tough company to sell. So, he bought it himself.

Almost 40,000 People Applied for This 'Dream Job' on a Greek Island Paradise. Now Meet the Woman Who Got Hired

They thought they might get 25 applications, maybe 50. Then it went viral and they got 40,000.

Two Words That Will Help Your Team Perform Better, According to LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner

He got it from Duke's legendary "Coach K," Mike Krzyzewski.

5 Ways to Beef Up Your Cybersecurity Right Now

Only 38 percent of small businesses have a cybersecurity plan to protect their data and their business. If you are not one of them, this checklist will help you get started

Bird is Planning on a New York Opening

The Big Apple is a transport nightmare. Some New York City Council members think e-scooters can help, even though e-scooters aren't legal. Yet.

Create a Database Cluster in the Cloud With MongoDB Atlas

Is Your Company Built on Cold Calling? Here Are 5 Things You Can Do to Close More Deals

It's all about getting to the real decision maker.

3 Counterintuitive Ways to Build Buzz for Your Personal Brand

You can dramatically increase your CEO brand with these 3 slightly unusual branding actions.

My Work Laptop Was Stolen in San Francisco. Here's What I Wish I'd Known

Having your business laptop stolen can feel as if someone punched you in the gut. Here's what to do if it happens to you.

If You Haven't Started Your Holiday Marketing, You're Already Late

The holidays are right around the corner. Is your business prepared for the festive frenzy?

3 Brilliant Marketing Tools Google, HBO, and Starbucks Are Using Urge People to Vote

Take a look at the smart marketing techniques these brands use ask their audience to register to vote.

How to Create High-Quality Marketing Videos for Cheap

Video marketing is on the rise. Here's how you can get involved and create high-quality video content at an affordable price.

Beleaguered But Not Out, Snap Forms Shopping Union With Amazon

The companies are helping Snapchat users find Amazon products by taking a picture of them with their phone..

6 Things the World's Best Bosses Have in Common

Wish you could live up to the "World's Best Boss" coffee mug sitting on your desk? These 6 tips will have you accepting the nomination in no time.

5 Key Practices For A Diverse and Inclusive Company

Diversity and inclusion are being emphasized more than ever before in the workplace--and that's a good thing. Here are five tips for legitimately practicing both within your company.

5 FinTech Trends You Need to Know About in 2018

The FinTech industry is evolving with the latest technologies.

4 Things You Can Do to Make Your Team More Productive

How to Improve my team's productivity, how to be more productive, how to manage, how to lead,

If You're Over 50 and Want to Change Careers, You'll Need To Do This 1 Thing Well

If you don't do this, you won't be able to convince employers to give you a chance.

3 Ways to Become a Better Communicator, According to an FBI Hostage Negotiator

Show confidence by speaking slowly, lowering your register, and adding pauses.

5 Fun and Free Ways to Keep Your Employees Happy

These strategies will help shake up the nine to five. Best of all, they don't cost a thing.

Jeff Bezos Has a Simple Framework to Avoid Regret--Here's How You Can, Too

It totally makes sense.

Apple and Salesforce Are Teaming Up to Enable Siri for Enterprise Business Use

The program will help millions of developers build their own apps.

These Startups are Making Otherwise Boring Industries Extremely Attractive--Here's How

Boring is the new attractive.

How to Digitally Paint Dimension and Texture in Adobe Photoshop

Columbus Isn't the Next Business Destination, It's Already Happening

Columbus is the Midwest's capitol for capital and that's just the beginning for why it's becoming a hub for small businesses.

The Daily To-Do That Inspires Team-Wide Trust, Engagement and Respect

Boost productivity with this simple daily exercise that transforms team culture sustainably.

7 Ways to Keep Your Business Practices Competitive

Business-as-usual means obsolete business practices and non-competitive processes. Here are some best practices for today's age of rapid change.

Technology Companies Are Leaving Silicon Valley in Droves: Here's Where They're Going

The exodus from Silicon Valley continues. Here are the surprising places where innovators are planting their roots.

How to Stay Mentally Strong When Your Career Isn't Advancing As Fast as You'd Like

Ask yourself this one question every day to ensure you're growing mentally stronger.

My Office Contacts Me All Weekend Long

Here's what to do when your office emails you 24/7.

35+ Awesome French Design Tutorials and Articles on Envato Tuts+

My First Fax Machine Cost Me $5000

But that's no reason to still be using it today.

How to Record a Webinar on Your Mac or PC (In 2018)

Best in 2018: Professional Resume Design Templates (Cool + Modern)

How to Build Serverless Web Apps With React and AWS Amplify

A Dash of Dosh How This Cash Back Marketplace is Getting You Paid

Dosh believes they have attribution modeling down to a science and are helping put money in consumer's pocket at the same time

Why Partnering With Competitors Is Often the Best Move for Your Company

Sure, you're competing for the same customers and dollars. But sometimes working with your competition can be mutually beneficial.

How to Start Your Own Restaurant: 10 Tips From a Successful Restaurantrepreneur

Will Malnati grew up working in his family's pizza chain... and went on to start restaurants in NYC, Boston, Dubai, and Bangkok.

What We All Can Learn From Israeli Entrepreneurs

Here is what I learned about entrepreneurship on my sabbatical teaching in Israel.

If Employees Aren't Reading (or Even Opening) Emails, Here Are 5 Things to Do Differently

Email isn't dead. But a lot of emails are barely breathing. That's why you need to make these changes.

How Your Business Benefits From Creating a Culture of Accountability

One of the best ways to move your company forward is to create a culture of accountability. But how?

The Post-It Note System To Achieve Your Dreams

The Post-It Note System To Achieve Your Dreams and Harness the Law of Attraction to Achieve Your Goals

Jeff Bezos Says It's Always Day 1 at Amazon. Here's the Big Problem With That Philosophy

Founder and CEO of Amazon, Jeff Bezos, believes every day at Amazon should be treated like day 1. Is the day 1 philosophy brilliant or missing a key ingredient?

Avoid the Perils of Overpromising

Given the power of technology to radically change the way businesses operate, companies have a tendency to overwhelm customers with solutions they're not yet sure they need. So consider backing off a bit on what you offer. Don't confuse them while you're trying to convince them.

How to Declutter Your Workspace in 5 Minutes or Less

You can clear your area without spending tons of time organizing, filing or disinfecting.

This Is Millennials' Number 1 Life Goal

Millennialsnumber one life goal outranksa meaningful career, owning a home, and raising a family.

These 4 Girl Bosses Are Investing Millions in Female Entrepreneurs--Here's How to Get Funded.

From Tory Burch to Sophia Amoruso, female entrepreneurs are paying it forward by providing women in business with the capital to launch their greatest ideas.

3 Ways Leaders Can Become Outstanding Advocates for Their Team

Leaders must be consistent and effective advocates for their staff in order to increase engagement and performance levels.

This No. 1 Employee Perk Beats Out On-Site Cafeterias and On-Site Fitness Centers

This is the No. 1 rated perk businesses can offer employees, as voted by them. Are you offering it at your business?

Are You Working on Your Business While Commuting? You Should Be--Here's How

I used to waste a lot of time sitting in the back of cabs. Now, it's one of the most productive parts of my day.

Entrepreneurs From Other Countries Get These 4 Things Right. You Should Try Them, Too

It comes down to promoting employee health. Are you doing that for your team?

How Will Google Shopping Compete With Amazon? With Sci-Fi Warehouses Run With Almost No Humans

The search giant signed an astonishing partnership with Chinese e-comm player JD.com--and it could change the face of online business.

It's Mickey Mouse's 90th Birthday -- Here Are 17 Wise Walt Disney Quotes to Inspire Your Success and Happiness

Walt Disney was a remarkably visionary and creative entrepreneur and businessman. Here's just a small sample of his profound wisdom.

New Course on Kotlin Android Services

Create Your Own WordPress Theme Option Panel With Redux Framework

7 Reasons Why Seats on American, United and Delta Are Likely to Get Smaller, Not Bigger After the New Congressional Bill

Breathe in, don't breathe out.

Want to Lead Like a Navy SEAL? These Former Navy SEALs Reveal the Surprising Secret

Former Navy SEALsJocko Willink and Leif Babinknow a lot about leadership--and how to win.

How to Create Floral Typography With Ink

Nike Sinks Its Great Colin Kaepernick Ad with Conservative Campaign Contributions

Your PR can be smart, but it won't last if your brand doesn't follow through.

Spanx Founder Sara Blakely Just Identified the No. 1 Reason Why People Don't Succeed (and It's Quite Brilliant)

The billionaire head of the intimate apparel brand surprises us with a unique take on success most of us rarely think about.

8 Mantras to Live More Confidently

A big part of taking risks which result in success involves the dialogue which happens in your mind.

Making a Business Decision? Science Says Go With Your Gut

New research shows that feelings, rather than thoughts, can help you make better choices. In other words, go with your gut. Here's how.

This Is the Number 1 Sign of High Intelligence, According to Jeff Bezos

This is what the Amazon founder looks like when he wants to know if someone is really smart.

Instagram Founders Are Latest to Depart Facebook Amid Rumors of Conflict With Mark Zuckerberg

WhatsApp founder quit a couple of months ago.

New Research on How Leaders Make Decisions Differently Than Everyone Else

Not everyone is comfortable making decisions that affect a group rather than only themselves.

Mark Cuban Would Save This One Thing If His House Was Burning Down

In an excerpt from Bill Shapiro and Naomi Wax's 'What We Keep,' Mark Cuban and Melinda Gates share their most personal and inspiring possessions.

Here Are the 10 Fastest-Growing Companies in Boston

Beantown has stayed strong in its reputation as home to some of the fastest growing companies in America.

Here's the Psychology That Explains Why We Keep Trying Longer Than We Should

It's human nature to try to stick things out even when it isn't good for us, psychologists say.

Neuroscience Says Power Naps Work. Why Aren't We Taking Them?

We've known for decades that short naps improve performance but workplaces still make it difficult to take them.

These Are the 1,000 Most Iconic Large Private Companies in the U.S.: Warby Parker, Levi Strauss, In-N-Out Burger and More

In this inaugural list, Inc. and Grant Thornton have teamed up to create an exclusive roster of the 1000 largest, most vital American companies that are not public. These companies maintain growth and relevance as they continue to thrive.

What do you get when you combine innovation with cost-cutting? Costovation.

The best innovations reduce costs while adding value at the same time.

Can You Retire on Cryptocurrency?

Can You Retire on Cryptocurrency?

Captain Sully Sullenberger Warns That the Push to Smaller Seats by American, JetBlue, and Other Airlines Raises Serious Safety Concerns

Retired Captain Sully Sullenberger is worried that increasingly cramped airline cabins will make expeditious evacuation of an entire airliner difficult.

5 Ways Night Owls Can Flourish in Their 9 to 5 Workday

Here are a few strategies to help you be more effective during your daytime working hours if you tend to prefer working at night.

Weight Watchers Changes Its Name to Something So Stupid It Will Remind You of New Coke

WW is not a name. It's two letters.

5 Amazing Assets for Elegant Real Estate Videos

Employers Can Now Receive Tax Credits for Giving Their Workers Paid Time Off

The cuts encourage companies to offer paid time to their employees for family responsibilities.

Want to Be a Better Leader? Add These 5 Questions to Your Weekly Meetings

Motivated and Inspired employees are possible. But do you have the guts to ask your employees these five questions?

4 Things Every Business Owner Should Do at the End of the Year

There are key tactics and strategies to start thinking about in order to finish your year strong.

3 Things You Can Do to Boost Your Company's Growth

Scaling your company is essential for growth, but poor scaling strategies kill more companies than they save. Try out these tips to grow your company without draining your funds.

A Navy Seal Outlines 4 Ways Your Team Is Dysfunctional and You Don't Know it Yet

Oftentimes, companies don't even realize their teams' behaviors have slipped into dysfunctional territory until they're knee-deep in the damage.

How Facebook and Others Are Looking to Modernize Hiring (and Make Job Hunting Easier)

Ah, the power of modernization.

Lyft, Patagonia Gear Up Effort to Make It Easier for Workers to Vote

Less than half of eligible voters went to the polls in 2014. These companies are trying to change that.

Love Them or Boycott Them, Nike's Leading in One Critical Way. What Is It?

Yeah, the shoe giant's getting valuable press. But that's not why it ran the Kaepernick ad.

Want Your Employees to Like Their Jobs More? This 1 Technique Could Help

This Yale Professor offers a simple technique to make employees feel more satisfied.

Why Your Next Business Will Be Funded by a Digital Coin

Entrepreneurs have more funding options than ever.

Why Gig Workers Are Now Looking for More Traditional Jobs

With more jobs available fewer people are turning to gig work as their primary source of income.

6 Ways to Choose the Right Colors for Your Marketing Campaign

Color palette can make all the difference for marketers seeking to connect with audiences. These 6 considerations will help you pick the right colors.

How to Create a Surreal Poster Design in Adobe Photoshop

In 6 Words, Tiger Woods Reveals How a Champion's Mind Works

Relentless focus is a hallmark of great athletes and great entrepreneurs.

The Case for Women's Spaces and the Rights of Trans Folks to Work

Being a trans person and Black in America is complicated--particularly in the world of work.

Is Your Best Employee Burning Out? Here Are 7 Ways to Reignite Their Spark

Even top performers need a little extra motivation sometimes.

Flight Attendants Wanted This Small Change for 20+ Years. Then Congress Gave Them a Big Surprise at 3 A.M

It really goes to the core of a flight attendant's identity. Is their job safety first, or something less crucial?

4 Great Ways Entrepreneurs Improve Public Speaking Skills

Public speaking gigs can seriously increase an entrepreneur's exposure, and your business' visibility. Here are four tips for doing it well.

10 Best Print-Inspired Halftone Effects (Color and Black-and-White) for Photoshop

Meet the Company Tackling the Tragic Aftermath of the Fentanyl Epidemic

Michael Wiseman's business, 24Trauma, has cleaned up after national tragedies like the Boston marathon bombing and several school shootings. Host Gerard Adams rides along with him on a busy day in the world of his industry: crime scene cleanup.

This Is What It Was Like to Be the Youngest Employee at Google

I learned the importance of steering your own ship.

Your Company Doesn't Have to Be the First to Market to Be Successful

Canopy and Tilray are each worth more than $14 billion, but took different routes to get there--proving that being a first mover isn't everything.

Ask Your Salespeople to Do This Surprising Thing If You Really Want to Jumpstart Your Revenues

Ask Your Salespeople to Do This Surprising Thing If You Really Want to Jumpstart Your Revenues

Adobe Unveils AI Assistant So Marketers Can Use 100 Percent of Their Data, Not 1 to 3 Percent

Growth marketers currently only use 1-3 percent of their data to make decisions. Adobe's new tech helps entrepreneurs learn what they didn't know they didn't know.

Here's How Outgoing PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi Summed Up Her Career (and Why Small Business Owners Should Relate)

Owning and running a business can be risky, grueling and downright dreadful. And that's why we love it.

The Great, Glorious, and Profound Key to All Leadership and Management

There is a foundational strategy for all leaders to follow.

Amazon Set to Become 3rd Largest Online Ad Seller in US

Though a distant third behind Google and Facebook, ads on Amazon are becoming more attractive to marketers.

This Travel Writer Who Doesn't Fly Will Demolish Your Beliefs About Adventure

World traveler Evelina Utterdahlreveals the underlying nature of travel, adventure, culture, and growth

Tell Your High School Senior Not to Apply to that Stretch School

Going to the best school possible isn't always the best advice.

My Employee is Chronically Late to Work

..And four other tricky workplace dilemmas.

Render Text and Shapes on Images in PHP

Build a Team of Leaders in 3 Easy Steps

Build A Stronger Team By Letting Your Staff Take The Lead . Put properly trained people in positions to make decisions that stick.

25+ Inspirational PowerPoint Presentation Design Examples (2018)

Running on Empty? Here's a Simple Way to Harness Some Excess Energy

The key to keeping yourself -- and your team -- charged up and focused is to master the transitions between activities. Here's how.

How to Build a Login UI with Angular and Material Design

Is Your Heart in the Right Place as a Leader? Here's How You'll Know

There is a big difference in being a manager and a leader. At the center of it is your heart.

Prototyping in Design Thinking: Fail Fast, Fail Often

No Matter Your Game, Ultimately This 1 Thing Separates You From The Pack

Every team needs skills, training, and a game plan, but in the end this matters more.

When Jeff Bezos Made His Grandmother Cry, His Grandfather Stopped the Car to Teach Him a Powerful Lesson About Kindness

You may not always be smart. You may not always be clever. But you can always be kind.

Is Lazy Marketing Hurting Your Business? Here's How You'll Know

While they may be shy to admit it, many a small businesses owner and entrepreneur are lazy when it comes to marketing, pinning their business on passive referrals and other more passive means of marketing.

How to Attract and Retain Talent According to a 13-Time "Best Company to Work For”

Intuit's Chief Talent Officer shares what makes their company such an ideal place to work.

This Is What a Great Book Does to Your Brain

The neuroscience of deep reading will make you want to curl up with a great book.

New Survey Shows How Tragically Busy Workers Are (and It Doesn't Look Good for Innovation)

New ideas are the centerpiece of business, but most employees don't have any spare time to dream them.

8 Apps to Help You Deliver Killer Speeches and Presentations

These 8 apps will help you to calm your nerves and increase audience participation in your next speech.

Jeff Bezos Just Shared His 3-Step Formula for Solving Problems--and It's Absolutely Brilliant

Yes, Amazon even gets its famous founder's orders wrong once in a while. Here's what Bezos does when that happens.

This Company Put Microchips in Employees. Now They've Made a Controversial App So Parents Can Track Their Kids

Three Square Market is at it again with interesting new technology--this time for parental monitoring. Which brings to mind "old technology" tactics.

Expanding Your Org Chart? These 5 Steps Will Help You Build a System That Delivers Results.

CEOs have great vision when it comes to planning their organizations. These 5 steps will help leaders create an infrastructure that delivers results.

Poor Sleep is Making You Feel Lonely and May Shorten Your Life -- Here's Why

Who would have ever dreamed -- excuse the pun -- that a lack to sleep could have such a huge impact on your life.

Want to Improve Your Life Instantaneously? Try These 7 Simple Habits (1 Habit Per Day for 1 Week)

One habit per day, some which can be done in just a few minutes.

Don't Build a New Employee Onboarding Program Without Accounting for These 3 Things

When executed correctly, onboarding programs can help your company deliver against its strategic goals.

Typography: The Anatomy of a Letter

How to Create a Letter Characters Text Effect in Adobe Illustrator

5 Tips For Pitching Reporters -- From Someone Who Used to Be One

These tips will help your email get read and acted upon, rather than sent unopened into the trash.

4 Steps Companies Must Take to Encourage Data-Driven Thinking

When you teach employees in tech-light roles to employ data management properly, you open the door for innovationat every level of the company.

This Decades-Old Toy Company Is the Last of Its Kind. Here's How It Survived

Pummeled by outsourcing and video games, Marble King finds new homes for its products in spray paint cans, women's boutiques, and the occasional blockbuster movie.

This Is the Biggest Reason People Aren't Saving Enough for Retirement

Americans don't put away as much cash as they used to. That's a problem.

The Most Innovative Companies of the 2018 Inc. 5000

These companies found creative ways to make money--and lots of it.

Can't Afford Free Food in the Office Anymore? Here's How to Cut Work Perks Tactfully

Can you cut a workplace perk without making your employees hate you? Here's how five CEOs responded.

This Company Offered All of Its Employees $200 To Ask for a Raise

The Motley Fool asked employees to go ask their manager for money. If they failed, they'd still be awarded.

The 1 Brutal Question Every Leader Should Be Able to Answer, According to Steve Jobs

If you can't, your business could suffer.

After What Congress Did at 2:52 A.M. Saturday, Life Will Change Radically for Airline Passengers and Flight Attendants. Here Are the Details

A 1,200-page bill, released on a weekend in the middle of the night, would mean sweeping changes for airline travel--plus some other things if it's passed as expected before Sept. 30.

The Last Airline You'd Ever Expect Just Lowered Its Fees (Yes, I Said Lowered)

How can this be?

Olive Garden Is Doing Very Well Again. Here's an Astonishing Reason Why

No, it's not just the fine food.

With a Single Sentence, Walmart Just Turned an Amazing Idea Into an Epic Fail

If Walmart wants employees to keep giving feedback, it must figure out what to do with it.

This Delta Flight Attendant Was Assaulted By a Passenger, Police Say. Here's the Other Thing That's Disturbing

A Flight Attendant's job is rarely easy.

Sad at Work? Good!

Sad at work? Good! Sadness and grief are powerful emotions, and we should embrace them in business, too. They help us be more human--and more effective leaders.

The Secret Behind Amazon's Uncanny Ability to Out Innovate Just About Every Other Company on the Planet

It's not any one practice, but how its culture and practice are so deeply intertwined that makes the difference.

How to Get Over 5 Mental Blocks That Drain Creativity

How to Create a Beer Text Effect in Adobe Photoshop

3 Ways to Find the Leaders Within Your Company

Anyone from a junior sales rep to your administrative assistant could have latent leadership potential. Here's how to bring it to light.

I Went to McDonald's to Try the New Menu Item Customers Are Angry About. It Was a Shock

This wasn't what I'd expected.

Reports Said the Wind Blew This Plane Dramatically Sideways. Oh, No, It Was Better Than That

The true skills of many professionals only come out in difficult circumstances.

American Airlines Wants Customers to Know It Will Never, Ever Be Like Southwest (You Know, Reasonable)

This is quite a declaration from the airline's CEO.

4 Ways You May be Alienating People With These Annoying (and Common) Habits

Part of getting ahead in business and life is acknowledging that no one is perfect and there are certainly things you do which annoy the people in your circles.

The 3 Lessons Every Founder Should Learn From Elon Musk's Bad Example

All founders make mistakes--just ask Elon Musk. Some cause lasting damage. Learn to spot these three blunders before they bring your company down.

Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines Just Won a Staggering Victory Worth Billions of Dollars (And Most of Us Didn't Even Notice)

How was your weekend? Did Congress make a decision that means billions to you? If not, the airlines had a better one.

This CEO's Sunday Ritual Helps Keep Employees Engaged. You Should Try It Too

Uptake co-founder Brad Keywell tells LinkedIn's Chip Cutter he hasn't missed a Sunday in almost three years.

American Airlines Has Changed Something Very Basic About Its Service. It Just Hasn't Told Passengers Yet

Now why would American do this?

7 AI Tools You Can Use to Increase Online Sales

AI apps and programs can help boost your conversion optimization -- that is, increase the number of people who purchase things on your website, and help you sell more of your products with less effort.

The Data Shows Your Self-Esteem Peaks At This Surprising Age

New research also finds that what we think about self-esteem in adolescence might be wrong.

This Guy Works From Home and Makes Big Money On iTunes, Spotify and Amazon. (Here's His Brilliant Trick)

He has 73 different stage names, 19,000 songs, and he does it all from a basement studio while taking care of his two kids.

The Cleveland Browns Prove You Should Never Give Up. These 18 Quotes Will Inspire You To Keep Going.

See, America?! Good things can come eventually...even to Cleveland.

Trump Considers Antitrust Look at Google and Facebook Over Political 'Bias' Claims

Tech companies face a danger that this time is not of their own doing.

How To Prepare Your Organization For Innovation

It's always better to prepare than adapt. By the time you realize you need to adapt, it might very well be too late.

How to Motivate Employees Without Bossing Them Around

Use this compelling method to engage employees in change

How to Create a Surreal Water Photo Manipulation in Adobe Photoshop

All This Baggage Handler Had to Do Was Get the Luggage on the Trolley. Instead, He Did This

This isn't a man putting in his best effort.

American Airlines Said They'd Offer This Free Perk Last Year. Want to Guess If They Actually Followed Through?

When Delta said they'd do this, American said "Us too!" But only one airline actually did it.

Think You Just Can't Win? These 60 Seconds Brilliantly Prove That You're Wrong

The idea that you've lost is an easy feeling to bathe in. This real-life piece of action says it's not over.

Experts Say Millennials are Changing the Face of This Multi-Million Dollar Travel Trend

Travel is a multi-billion dollar industry. Competition is fierce for the best vacations people take, and this unexpected trend is returning in style.

Stay In-The-Know About The NCAA Tournament With These Apps

March and early April have a certain magical quality. All around the country, sports fans of all stripes take part in that great workplace tradition -- the NCAA Tournament Office Pool. People fill out their brackets, sometimes guessing, sometimes picking their favorite team even when they’re a hopeless underdog, but [...]

7 Things Introverts Wish Extraverts Knew

They're not going to figure it out on their own, so let's just spell it out for them.

6 Strategies to Help You Beat Imposter Syndrome

Feeling like a fraud that will be found out is more common than you may think. Here's how to overcome it.

Jeff Bezos Just Revealed How the 'Smartest Guy at Princeton' Radically Changed His Life 34 Years Ago. (He Never Knew Until Now)

You never know the major impact you might have on somebody else. But this story has another chapter.

Just How Much Trouble Is Elon Musk In?

This week, Inc. editors and writers talk about how a tweet is causing major issues for Elon Musk.

This Successful Entrepreneur and Mother Points Out 6 Ways You're Wasting Time and Don't Even Realize It

Some people struggle with having it all, because there's never enough time. This CEO says you can be your own worst time enemy.

Battle of the Sneakerhead Startups

An analysis of how sneakerhead startups StockX, GOAT, and Stadium Goods compete, and what other retailers can learn from their showdown.

This Simple Technique Will Make You a Much More Successful Negotiator

The smartest thing to focus on during a negotiation is giving yourself time to step away.

Why Some App Developers Can Still Read Your Gmail

The company admitted that app developers can gather data from Gmail accounts and share it with third parties.

Leaders Should Never Do These 3 Things to Someone Coming Forward With Sexual Assult Claims

Here are a few simple things to avoid if this incredibly difficult situation arises in your place of work.

5 Ways You Can Use Personality Tests to Boost Your Leadership Skills

Do your research to make sure the test is respected, and that it actually provides insight into your life and career.

New NAFTA Terms Could Boost Your E-Commerce Business. Here's How to Take Advantage

Understanding duties and shipping can be a hurdle for online retailers. E-commerce shipping under a new NAFTA can equip businesses to conduct cross-border trade and go global

3 Traps New Entrepreneurs Fall Into That You Can Avoid

Play against the odds by learning from who've been there and done that.

Here's How I Make Every Single Second Count After a Business Conference

Some of the biggest benefits of attending a conference actually come in the days following the event. Here's how to maximize that precious time.

Why Every Founder Needs a Community. Here's How to Build One

Create the community you want to see, together everyone is better.

20 Different Fonts to Make Stylish Graphic Design Projects in 2018

Amazon Is in the Crosshairs of EU's Top Antitrust Regulator. Why That Matters for You

Margrethe Vestager wants to know what Amazon does with all its sales data.

Secrets to Healthy Growth from the CEO of a Seven-Time Inc. 5000 List Company

Rapid growth exposes the cracks in the seams holding your company together. Here's how to fix them.

17 Wise Mister Rogers Quotes That Will Inspire Your Success and Happiness

You will love and accept yourself -- and your neighbors -- a lot more after reading these truly inspiring Mister Rogers quotes.

50 Free Lightroom Presets for Black-and-White Photography and How to Create Your Own

Success Is A Marathon. Here's How to Win.

The path to success is paved with consistency.

Most Employees at Amazon, eBay and Other Major Tech Companies Don't Trust HR. Here's Why That's Dangerous

Lack of trust between your HR team and employees can cause your business growth to take a hit. Here's what you can do to build trust.

On the Shores of Lake Erie, these Innovators are Remaking Springsteen Country

Entrepreneurs and civic leaders are creating an exciting innovation district that is redefining an iconic Rust Belt city.

Securing Communications on Android

With all the recent data breaches, privacy has become an important topic. Almost every app communicates over the network, so it's important to consider the security of user information. In this post, you'll learn the current best practices for securing the communications of your Android app.

Use HTTPS

As you are developing your app, it's best practice to limit your network requests to ones that are essential. For the essential ones, make sure that they're made over HTTPS instead of HTTP. HTTPS is a protocol that encrypts traffic so that it can't easily be intercepted by eavesdroppers. The good thing about Android is that migrating is as simple as changing the URL from http to https. 

URL url = new URL("https://example.com");
HttpsURLConnection httpsURLConnection = (HttpsURLConnection)url.openConnection();
httpsURLConnection.connect();

In fact, Android N and higher versions can enforce HTTPS using Android’s Network Security Configuration.

In Android Studio, select the app/res/xml directory for your project. Create the xml directory if it doesn't already exist. Select it and click File > New File. Call it network_security_config.xml. The format for the file is as follows:

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<network-security-config>
  <domain-config cleartextTrafficPermitted="false">
    <domain includeSubdomains="true">example.com</domain>
  </domain-config>
</network-security-config>

To tell Android to use this file, add the name of the file to the application tag in the AndroidManifest.xml file:

<application android:networkSecurityConfig="@xml/network_security_config"

Update Crypto Providers

The HTTPS protocol has been exploited several times over the years. When security researchers report vulnerabilities, the defects are often patched. Applying the patches ensures that your app's network connections are using the most updated industry standard protocols. The most recent versions of the protocols contain fewer weaknesses than the previous ones. 

To update the crypto providers, you will need to include Google Play Services. In your module file of build.gradle, add the following line to the dependencies section:

implementation 'com.google.android.gms:play-services-safetynet:15.0.1'

The SafetyNet services API has many more features, including the Safe Browsing API that checks URLs to see if they have been marked as a known threat, and a reCAPTCHA API to protect your app from spammers and other malicious traffic.

After you sync Gradle, you can call the ProviderInstaller's installIfNeededAsync method:

public class MainActivity extends Activity implements ProviderInstaller.ProviderInstallListener
{
  @Override
  protected void onCreate(Bundle savedInstanceState)
  {
    super.onCreate(savedInstanceState);
    ProviderInstaller.installIfNeededAsync(this, this);
  }
}

The onProviderInstalled() method is called when the provider is successfully updated, or already up to date. Otherwise, onProviderInstallFailed(int errorCode, Intent recoveryIntent) is called. 

Certificate and Public Key Pinning

When you make an HTTPS connection to a server, a digital certificate is presented by the server and validated by Android to make sure the connection is secure. The certificate may be signed with a certificate from an intermediate certificate authority. This certificate used by the intermediate authority might in turn be signed by another intermediate authority, and so on, which is trustworthy as long as the last certificate is signed by a root certificate authority that is already trusted by Android OS.

If any of the certificates in the chain of trust are not valid, then the connection is not secure. While this is a good system, it's not foolproof. It's possible for an attacker to instruct Android OS to accept custom certificates. Interception proxies can possess a certificate that is trusted, and if the device is controlled by a company, the company may have configured the device to accept its own certificate. These scenarios allow for a “man in the middle” attack, allowing the HTTPS traffic to be decrypted and read. 

Certificate pinning comes to the rescue by checking the server's certificate that is presented against a copy of the expected certificate. This prevents connections from being made when the certificate is different from the expected one.

In order to implement pinning on Android N and higher, you need to add a hash (called pins) of the certificate into the network_security_config.xml file. Here is an example implementation:

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<network-security-config>
  <domain-config cleartextTrafficPermitted="false">
    <domain includeSubdomains="true">duckduckgo.com</domain>
    <pin-set>
      <pin digest="SHA-256">lFL47+i9MZkLqDTjnbPTx2GZbGmRfvF3GkEh+J+1F3g=</pin>
      <pin digest="SHA-256">w9MWhhnFZDSPWTFBjaoeGuClsrCs7Z70lG7YNlo8t+s=</pin>
    </pin-set>
  </domain-config>
</network-security-config>

To find the pins for a specific site, you can go to SSL Labs, enter the site, and click Submit. Or, if you're developing an app for a company, you can ask the company for it.

Note: If you need to support devices running an OS version older than Android N, you can use the TrustKit library. It utilizes the Network Security Configuration file in exactly the same way.

Sanitization and Validation

With all of the protections so far, your connections should be quite secure. Even so, don't forget about regular programming validation. Blindly trusting data received from the network is not safe. A good programming practice is “design by contract”, where the inputs and outputs of your methods satisfy a contract that defines specific interface expectations. 

For example, if your server is expecting a string of 48 characters or less, make sure that the interface will only return up to and including 48 characters.

if (editText.getText().toString().length() <= 48)
{
    ; //return something...
}
else
{
    ; //return default or error
}

If you're only expecting numbers from the server, your inputs should check for this. While this helps to prevent innocent errors, it also reduces the likelihood of injection and memory corruption attacks. This is especially true when that data gets passed to NDK or JNI—native C and C++ code.

The same is true for sending data to the server. Don't blindly send out data, especially if it's user-generated. For example, it's good practice to limit the length of user input, especially if it will be executed by an SQL server or any technology that will run code. 

While securing a server against attacks is beyond the scope of this article, as a mobile developer, you can do your part by removing characters for the language that the server is using. That way, the input is not susceptible to injection attacks. Some examples are stripping quotes, semicolons and slashes when they're not essential for the user input:

string = string.replace("\\", "").replace(";", "").replace("\"", "").replace("\'", "");

If you know exactly the format that is expected, you should check for this. A good example is email validation:

private final String emailRegexString = "^[A-Za-z0-9._%+\\-]+@[A-Za-z0-9.\\-]+\\.[A-Za-z]{2,4}$";
private boolean isValidEmailString(String emailString)
{
     return emailString != null &&   Pattern.compile(emailRegexString).matcher(emailString).matches();
}

Files can be checked as well. If you're sending a photo to your server, you can check it's a valid photo. The first two bytes and last two bytes are always FF D8 and FF D9 for the JPEG format.

private static boolean isValidJPEGAtPath(String pathString) throws IOException
{
    RandomAccessFile randomAccessFile = null;
    try
    {
        randomAccessFile = new RandomAccessFile(pathString, "r");
        long length = randomAccessFile.length();
        if (length < 10L)
        {
            return false;
        }
        byte[] start = new byte[2];
        randomAccessFile.readFully(start);
        randomAccessFile.seek(length - 2);
        byte[] end = new byte[2];
        randomAccessFile.readFully(end);
        return start[0] == -1 && start[1] == -40 && end[0] == -1 && end[1] == -39;
    }
    finally
    {
        if (randomAccessFile != null)
        {
            randomAccessFile.close();
        }
    }
}

Be careful when displaying an error alert that directly shows a message from the server. Error messages could disclose private debugging or security-related information. The solution is to have the server send an error code that the client looks up to show a predefined message.

Communication With Other Apps

While you're protecting communication to and from the device, it's important to protect IPC as well. There have been cases where developers have left shared files or have implemented sockets to exchange sensitive information. This is not secure. It is better to use Intents. You can send data using an Intent by providing the package name like this:

Intent intent = new Intent();
intent.setComponent(new ComponentName("com.example.app","com.example.app.TheActivity"));
intent.putExtra("UserInfo", "Example string");
startActivity(intent);

To broadcast data to more than one app, you should enforce that only apps signed with your signing key will get the data. Otherwise, the information you send can be read by any app that registers to receive the broadcast. Likewise, a malicious app can send a broadcast to your app if you have registered to receive the broadcast. You can use a permission when sending and receiving broadcasts where signature is used as the protectionLevel. You can define a custom permission in the manifest file like this:

<permission android:name="com.example.mypermission" android:protectionLevel="signature"/>

Then you can grant the permission like this: 

<uses-permission android:name="com.example.mypermission"/>

Both apps need to have the permissions in the manifest file for it to work. To send the broadcast:

Intent intent = new Intent();
intent.putExtra("UserInfo", "Example string");
intent.setAction("com.example.SOME_NOTIFICATION");
sendBroadcast(intent, "com.example.mypermission");

Alternatively, you can use setPackage(String) when sending a broadcast to restrict it to a set of apps matching the specified package. Setting android:exported to false in the manifest file will exclude broadcasts that are received from outside of your app.

End-to-End Encryption

It's important to understand the limits of HTTPS for protecting network communications. In most HTTPS implementations, the encryption is terminated at the server. For example, your connection to a corporation's server may be over HTTPS, but once that traffic hits the server, it is unencrypted. It may then be forwarded to other servers, either by establishing another HTTPS session or by sending it unencrypted. The corporation is able to see the information that has been sent, and in most cases that's a requirement for business operations. However, it also means that the company could pass the information out to third parties unencrypted.

There is a recent trend called "end-to-end encryption" where only the two end communicating devices can read the traffic. A good example is an encrypted chat app where two mobile devices are communicating with each other through a server; only the sender and receiver can read each other's messages.

An analogy to help you understand end-to-end encryption is to imagine that you want someone to send you a message that only you can read. To do this, you provide them with a box with an open padlock on it (the public key) while you keep the padlock key (private key). The user writes a message, puts it in the box, locks the padlock, and sends it back to you. Only you can read the message because you're the only one with the key to unlock the padlock.

With end-to-end encryption, both users send each other their keys. The server only provides a service for communication, but it can't read the content of the communication. While the implementation details are beyond the scope of this article, it's a powerful technology. If you want to learn more about this approach, a great place to start is the GitHub repo for the open-sourced Signal project.

Conclusion

With all the new privacy laws such as GDPR, security is ever more important. It's often a neglected aspect of mobile app development.

In this tutorial, you've covered the security best practices, including using HTTPS, certificate pinning, data sanitization and end-to-end encryption. These best practices should serve as a foundation for security when developing your mobile app. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them below, and while you're here, check out some of my other tutorials about Android app security! 

• Security
  Keys, Credentials and Storage on Android
  Collin Stuart
• Security
  Storing Data Securely on Android
  Collin Stuart

10 Ways to Increase Your Emotional Intelligence

Developing your EQ skills is essential to professional success today.

How to Properly List Promotions & Certifications on a Resume

8 Ways to Significantly Improve Your Writing

The key to better writing: being able to edit your own work

What Serena Williams' U.S. Open Match Can Teach Women in Business

The tennis great's comments and actions at the U.S. Open offer valuable lessons for how women should navigate the workplace.

Want to Improve Company Engagement and Morale? Start By Addressing This 1 Huge Issue

Companies looking to improve will resort to various perks. But, without addressing this 1 huge issue, companies will continue to waste money.

Airbnb Just Revealed 3 Statistics That Will Change the Way You Lead

The surprising travel preferences say tons about collective employee mindset, how to win their loyalty and how to expand your business.

New Course: Adobe Illustrator for Beginners

Want to Boost Your Career This Fall? These 9 New Books Will Help

Need inspiration for fall? These titles by Seth Godin, Bren Brown, and others will deliver.

How to Make Your Small Business Supply Chain Socially Conscious?

Now more than ever consumers are demanding corporate social responsibility and conscious consumerism. How can your business keep up.

Is Subway Suggesting McDonald's Will Kill You?

If you're going to do this, make it good.

Psychologists Have Finally Discovered 4 Research-Backed Personality Types

Forget Myers Briggs and the latest Facebook quiz, these are the only personality types that are actually backed by science.

How to Create an Eco Bulb and Butterfly Illustration in Adobe Illustrator

Here's How Highly Successful People Generate Their Own Good Luck

More than a dozen founders and executives share their advice on how to open more doors than everyone else.

9 Things Likable People Do Differently Than Most People

How do you compare with the most likable people?

How to Create Urgency Without Ruining Your Culture

When big projects are on the line, it's time for you and your team to join together and work like never before. But there are right ways and wrong ways of going about it.

A #MeToo Scandal Rocked the Dallas Mavericks. Mark Cuban's Response Was Perfect

Some believe he should have been suspended from the NBA. Here's why that didn't happen.

How to Be a Freelancer and Not End Up Homeless

If you can get through the first two or three years, you can make good money and have more control over your life.

Here's the Truly Surprising Thing American Airlines Just Told an Angry Passenger (It All Came Down to 1 Word)

The rapper Wale complained that American Airlines employees were racist toward him. Here's what American has to say in response.

This Company Had the No. 1 Product on Amazon. So Why Is Their Follow-Up Exclusively at Walmart?

If you made millions on Amazon, where do you think you'd launch your next product? Not these people.

American Airlines Just Raised Its Baggage Fee and Offered an Incredible, Maddening Explanation

The airline couldn't wait more than a day longer than Delta. But its logic is quite something.

Female Candidates Dominated the Primaries--Demonstrating 2 Leadership Skills Every Entrepreneur Should Know

Women are making history for running for office at such a high rate, here are the strategies that got them on the ballot.

This Crazily Enjoyable Ad Takes Political Advertising In a Whole New (and Really Quite Good) Direction

It's rare I watch a political ad twice.

Smart Leaders Are Continuously Learning. Here's How to Get in the Habit

How do you prepare for a business career in a world where all your skills may soon be obsolete?. The challenge is continuous learning.

New Survey of 17,140 People Reveals the Top 3 Reasons Why Employees Are Unhappy at Work

Find work at which you excel, with colleagues you admire, doing work that inspires you.

IBM's Discrimination Lawsuit: Here's One Huge Issue That's Being Overlooked

Science and human nature provide some telling clues about the lack of age diversity in a company.

The Top 7 Messenger Apps in the World

The Top 7 Messenger Apps in the World: Connectwith your audience on the apps they use most!

Free Credit Freezes Start Now: Here's How to Avoid the Frustration that Comes With Them

Credit freezes are an important tool to battle identity theft, but they can take a toll on your patience.

My Co-Founder Had to Leave Unexpectedly to Deal With a Personal Crisis. Here's How I Handled It

While the first reaction might be panic, the second should be that your company can get through this

4 Things Newly Promoted Leaders Need to Do Right Away

There is much written about how to get a promotion at work, but what about right after you get your dream promotion? Think about what you need to do right away, and how to avoid self sabotage.

Yes You Can Use Reddit to Sell Your Products. Here's How to Get Started

Selling products Redditcan be daunting and seem impossible, but when done right it can be incredibly effective and successful.

How to Use Colour Balance for Better Black and White Conversions in Lightroom

5 Things All Businesses Should Know About Disaster Recovery

Don't forget to call your insurance provider as soon as possible.

Marc Benioff Just Joined the Ranks of Silicon Valley's Press Barons. Here's What We Know About How He'll Use His Power

The Salesforce CEO and new owner of Time magazine has all the makings of a benevolent press baron.

Jack Ma Said Trump's Trade War With China Nulls Alibaba's Plans to Create 1 Million U.S. Jobs

According to Ma the promise was made on the premise of a friendly U.S.-China partnership.

Want to Be Happier Right Away? Science Says to Start With These Changes to Your Living Space

Symmetry is one of our deepest hardwired aesthetic preferences.

Eventbrite Is Set to Go Public at $23 a Share

The event management company has raised $332 million in the past 12 years.

These Free Marketing Hacks Will Help You Grow When Cash is Tight

Giving away your time or even a free version of your product can lead to eager new customers.

18+ Cool PowerPoint Templates (To Make Presentations in 2018)

After Slapping Google and Apple With Major Fines, the EU Is Now Investigating Amazon

The EU is most concerned about Amazon's data from third-party sellers.

As a College Professor and a Psychotherapist, I've Seen The Damage Lawnmower Parents Can Do To Kids

They're like helicopter parents--except worse.

How to Create a Stylish Magazine Layout in Affinity Publisher

New York Startups Already Have Raised More Than $9 Billion This Year

So far in 2018 Silicon Alley companies have closed around 850 deals.

Don't Let Neediness Lead to Bad Paying Customers

Which can in turn lead to a serious financial crisis.

Looking Back, Michael Phelps Wouldn't Change a Thing (But He Does Want You To Make 1 Small Change)

My interview with Michael Phelps about water conservation, sacrificing in pursuit of a huge goal, and how for the first time, he likes who he is as a person.

How to Edit a Brain Infographic PowerPoint Template in 60 Seconds

How to Recruit People Who Want to Be a Part of Your Startup Dream

Authority. Responsibility. Opportunities to learn and grow. Startup employees get those things, and a whole lot more. Here's how to find people eager to embrace what your startup has to offer.

Follow Through On Follow Up

We all have stacks of business cards collecting dust on our desks. We have the best possible intention of getting to them some day don't we? It's crazy, but the statistic around the water cooler is that almost 90% of people fail to follow up after meeting someone. What a gigantic waste of time and energy! Lack of follow up really hurts you both personally and professionally. Here's why:

How To Make Pipelines and Sales Funnels Work For You

We've all heard more times than we can count - work smarter, not harder. Well with a thoughtful and well-executed pipeline and sales funnel everyone's favorite overused phrase can become your reality.

Amazon May Open 3,000 Cashier-Less Stores by 2021

Amazon, AmazonGo, retail, convenience stores, IoT, Internet of Things, Panera, Subway, 7-11, 7-Eleven

Sales isn't about Emotional Intelligence Anymore

Customers are smarter than ever, your sales team may need to revolutionize

Over-Simplify Your Operations Can Actually Hurt Your Business, Says Netflix Founder Reed Hastings

Everyone wants a business that is easy to operate. But the unintended consequence of too much instruction might surprise you.

1 Powerful But Simple Rule That Jeff Bezos Uses To Think and Perform Better

Ask someone if they want to think and perform better. You'll likely get a "yes". However, odds are, this person isn't using this simple rule.

10 Reasons Why You Aren't Growing As a Leader (and Why You Should Still Try)

If you aren't getting better at leadership, you shouldn't give up just yet.

What No One Tells You About Perseverance That Will Bring You Peace

It might sting at first, but eventually, there's nothing but relief.

Are You a Tech Dinosaur or Pioneer? Four Industry Experts Share What's Hot

Top tips for engagement beyond the traditional media platforms

One Thing That Will Make You More Persuasive (But That You Might Not Like So Much)

The most important thing in persuasion might not be what you say but who says it. And sometimes that person might not be you.

Appreciate Friendship More With These 17 Wise Quotes

Whether you are surrounded by friends or looking for friendship, these wise words will inspire you.

Quick Tip: 10 Audio Mastering Tips Every Engineer Should Know

Mastering is considered to be a dark art. A dark art that's seen an increasing number of mastering engineers enter the fray. 

In this tutorial, I'll shed light on how you can become a better mastering engineer with ten straightforward tips.  

1. Room Treatment  

Room treatment is vital. I'd choose budget monitors in a well treated room over high end monitors in a gymnasium. 

However you treat the room, the goal is always the same—to have a listening environment that is neutral, that results in even frequencies.  

2. Multiple Monitors 

One pair of monitors isn't enough. Monitors present their own individual view of a master.

You should invest in a good pair of monitors, but also a budget pair like the Avantone MixCubes, found in both home and pro studios. These are an excellent substitute for checking in the car, due to their limited bandwidth. 

You should also check the master on a laptop, on headphones and even whilst wearing earbuds. 

3. References

Listen to a lot of well mastered music from various genres and engineers. Create a collection of diverse references and put them into a playlist. My rock/pop playlist includes:

• Dance-Pop: Don't Stop the Music by Rihanna 
• Bass Heavy Pop: Drunk in Love by Beyoncé and Jay Z 
• High Fidelity Pop Rock: Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel
• Classic Rock: Back in Black by AC/DC 
• Acoustic Rock: Back on Your Side by Chris Isaak 
• Alternative Light Rock: Here It Comes by Doves
• Alternative Heavy Rock: Drunken Butterfly by Sonic Youth

You may want follow the complete playlist to use as your own reference material.   

4. Know the Gear

Know every aspect of the equipment you use and how it interacts with other equipment. 

If you're just starting out, try working with software before moving to hardware. The reason for this is that it is quicker to experiment and to check A/B comparisons using software. 

5. Know the Sequence

It helps if you know your track order before you begin. This can help with consistency in sound, ensuring the songs sit side by side sonically and dynamically. That doesn't mean that you should start work on track one first. 

My preference is to start work on the track that sounds the best sonically to me. This will become the benchmark track, the one that the remaining tracks will be judged against. 

6. Work in the Present and the Future

Consider the formats that it might get converted to and platforms it might get uploaded to. Consider the effect of converting from 24-bit to mp3 may have on the audio. 

Consider the uploading of music to iTunes, YouTube and SoundCloud and how each affects the sound. 

7. Less is More

The general rule of thumb for mastering is that you shouldn't boost or attenuate no-more than 3dB at any given frequency. This might seem very little, however when you do the math, it really isn't. 

For example, attenuating 3dB on a complete mix in the low mids is the same as attenuating 3dB on each individual instrument that lives in that frequency range. 

This might include the kick drum, snare drum, electric guitar, bass guitar and whatever else that often resides in the low-mids.    

8. Trust Through Respect

For me, trust is vital, more so then the equipment or skills an engineer might possess.

Trusting the mastering engineer to do his research into the artist and to be honest about the mix and to feedback to the mix engineer if there are any problems. If a mastering engineer says to themselves, "This is the way they have sent it, so this is the way they must want it", then work should not proceed without communication about the mix or whatever aspect is making the mastering engineer feel that it's not ready for mastering.  

9. Don't Master Your Own Mixes

If budget allows, don't master your own mixes. Even if you're a mastering engineer. 

It would go against one of the principles of what makes a great master, that is 'fresh ears' in a different environment to the one in which it was mixed. 

10. Sleep on it

This isn't one thats employed by all mastering engineers. 

Whenever a mastering session feels complete, I would listen the next day with fresh ears and a fresh mind. 

Bear in mind that, when a listener hears it, they most likely haven't played it at least five times that day. I feel you need to hear it, in the same way a new listener would before approving the final master.  

Conclusion 

In this Quick Tip Tutorial, I've given you ten tips improve your craft as a mastering engineer and in addition, encourage you to seek more information. 

LinkedIn's CEO Just Identified the Single Biggest Email Mistake You Can Make (and We're All Guilty)

I guarantee you see this mistake every. Single. Day.

Let's Stop Pretending Our Automated Systems Are Secure

All I wanted to do was change an address.

Art for All: Celebrate Diversity in Design—Volume 13

A Delta Customer Asked an Airline Employee For Her Manager's Name. The Employee Asked For Police To Be Called

The customer, who was black, filmed the interaction. She believes the employee's behavior was racially motivated.

You Might Be Encouraging a Toxic Workplace Without Realizing It. Here's How to Tell

Being emotionally available is good. Being an emotional mirror is not.

Onboarding a New Employee? Make Sure You Address These 4 Emotional Needs, Or They'll Leave

Nearly 40 percent of employees who leave their jobs do so within the first six months.

Want to Be a Better Public Speaker? Stop Talking and Do This Instead

Your silence is a gift to yourself and your audience.

7 Ways to Embrace Discomfort and Face Your Fears

Difficult situations can paralyze us until we are forced to change. These 7 strategies help us lean into discomfort and face our challenges head on.

30 Airline Passengers Began to Bleed From Their Noses and Ears. All Because of 1 Careless Crew Decision

This sounds a touch disturbing.

Data Science and Analytics for Business: Challenges and Solutions

As more companies discover the importance of data science and advanced analytics for their bottom line, a clash of cultures has begun. How can these quickly growing fields become part of a company’s ecosystem, especially for established companies that have been around for a decade or longer? 

Data scientists and IT professionals have vastly different needs when it comes to infrastructure. Here, I’ll lay out some of those requirements and discuss how to move beyond them—and evolve together.

Department Perspectives

When starting up data science programs within companies, the biggest issues often arise not from the technology itself, but from simple miscommunication. Interdepartmental misconceptions can result in a lot of grudge-holding between fledgling data science teams and IT departments. 

To combat this, we’ll examine both perspectives and take each of their needs into account. We'll start by defining what an IT professional requires to maintain a successful workflow, and then we'll look at what a data scientist needs for maximum efficiency. Finally, we'll find the common ground: how to use it to implement a healthy infrastructure for both to flourish.

IT Needs

Let’s start by taking a look at a typical data infrastructure for IT and Software Development.

Regarding data, there are three essential prerequisites that any IT department will focus on: 

• data that is secure
• data that is efficient
• data that is consistent

Because of this, much of IT utilizes table-based schemas, and often uses SQL (Structured Query Language) or one of its variants.

This setup means that there are a large number of tables for every purpose. Each of these tables is separate from one another, with foreign keys connecting them. Because of this setup, queries can be executed quickly, efficiently, and with security in mind. This is important for software development, where data needs to remain intact and reliable.

With this structure, the required hardware is often minimal when compared to the needs of data science. The stored data is well defined, and it evolves at a predictable pace. Little of the data repeats, and the querying process reduces the amount of processing resources required. 

Let’s see how data science differs.

Data Science Needs

On the other end, data science has a different set of needs. Data scientists need freedom of movement with their data—and flexibility to modify their data quickly. They need to be able to move data in non-standard ways and process large amounts at a time.

These needs are hard to implement using highly structured databases. Data science requires a different infrastructure, relying instead upon unstructured data and table-less schemas.

When referring to unstructured data, we’re talking about data with no intrinsic definition. It’s nebulous until given form by a data scientist. For most development, each field needs to be of a defined type—such as an integer or a string. For data science, however, it’s about supporting data points that are ill defined.

Table-less schemas add more versatility to this quasi-chaotic setup, allowing all the information to live in one place. It’s especially useful for data scientists who regularly need to merge data in creative and unstructured ways. Popular choices include NoSQL variants or structures that allow several dimensions, such as OLAP cubes.

As a result, the hardware required for data science is often more substantial. It will need to hold the entirety of the data used, as well as subsets of that data (though this is often spread out among multiple structures or services). The hardware can also require considerable processing resources as large amounts of data are moved and aggregated.

Distilling Needs Into Action

With these two sets of needs in mind, we can now see how miscommunication can occur. Let’s take these perspectives and use them to define what changes we’re looking for and how. What problems need to be solved when bringing data science into a traditional IT setting?

Ease of Data Manipulation

In a traditional IT setting, any given business’s databases likely follow a rigid structure, with tables divided to fit specific needs, an appropriate schema to define each piece of data, and foreign keys to tie it all together. This makes for an efficient system of querying data. The exploratory nature of some data science methods can push this to its limits.

When a common task might require joining a dozen or more tables, the benefits of table-based structures become less apparent. A popular method to handle this is to implement a secondary NoSQL or multi-dimensional database. This secondary database uses regular ETLs (Extract, Transform, Load) to keep its information fresh. This adds the cost of additional hardware or cloud service usage, but minimizes any other drawbacks.

Keep in mind that in some cases, adding a separate database for data science can be more affordable than using the same database (especially when complicated licensing issues come into play).

Ease of Data Scaling

This specific problem covers two mentioned mismatches:

1. regular increases in data from procedures
2. a need for unstructured data types

In traditional IT, the size of your database is well defined, either staying the same size or growing at a modest pace. When using a database for data science, that growth can be exponential. It is common to add gigabytes of data each day (or more). With the sheer size of this kind of data, a business will need to incorporate a plan for scaling internal architecture or use an appropriate cloud solution.

As for unstructured data, it can take up a lot of resources in terms of storage and processing power, depending on your specific uses. Because of this, it's often inefficient to keep it all in a database that might be used for other purposes. The solution is similar to scaling in general. We’ll either need a plan for scaling our internal architecture to meet these needs or we'll have to find an appropriate cloud solution.

Resource Usage

The last major difference we’ll talk about is the use of resources. For IT, the usage of resources is typically efficient, well defined, and consistent. If a database powers an eCommerce site, there are known constraints. An IT professional will know roughly how many users there will be over a given period of time, so they can plan their hardware provisioning based on how much information is needed for each user.

With traditional IT infrastructure, there won’t be any problems encountered if a project uses only a few hundred rows from a handful of tables. But a project that requires every row from two dozen tables can quickly become a problem. In data science, the needs in terms of processing and storage change from project to project—and that kind of unpredictability can be difficult to support.

In traditional IT, resources may be shared with other parties, which might be a live production site or an internal dev team. The risk here is that running a large-scale data science project could potentially lock those other users out for a period of time. Another risk is that the servers holding a database may not be able to handle the sheer amount of processing necessary. Calling 200,000 rows from 15 tables, and asking for data aggregation on top, becomes a problem. This magnitude of queries can be extremely taxing on a server that might normally handle a thousand or so simultaneous users.

The ideal solution comes down to cloud processing. This addresses two key factors. The first is that it allows query performance away from any important databases. The second is that it provides scaling resources that can fit each project.

So What’s the Final List of Requirements for Both?

Now that we’ve talked about the needs in depth, let’s sum them up. An IT and data science department will need the following for long-term success:

• a separate database to reduce the impact on other stakeholders
• a scaling storage solution to accommodate changes in data
• a scaling processing solution to accommodate varying project types
• an unstructured database to provide efficient retrieval and storage of highly varying data

Building a Case for Data Science

Let’s break everything down into specifications so we can put together a mutually beneficial solution. Now we’ll take a look at how to define the specific resources needed for an organization:

Researching Specifications

From the IT side, there are three main definitions needed to create the necessary infrastructure. These are: 

1. the amount of data
2. to what extent it needs processing
3. how the data will get to the storage solution

Here’s how you can determine each.

Data Storage Needs

It all starts with the initial data size needed and the estimated ongoing data additions.

For your initial data needs, take the defined size of your current database. Now subtract any columns or tables that you won't need in your data science projects. Take this number and add in the data size of any new sources that you’ll be introducing. New sources might include Google Analytics data or information from your Point of Sale system. This total will be the data storage we’ll be looking to attain upfront.

While the initial storage needs are useful upfront, you’ll still have to consider ongoing data needs—as you’ll likely be adding more information to the database over time. To find this information out, you can calculate your daily added data from your currently available data. Take a look at the amount of information that has been added to your database in the last 30 days, and then divide that by 30. Then repeat that for each information source that you’ll be using, and add them together. 

While this isn’t precise, there’s an old development mantra that you should double your estimate, and we’re going to use that here. Why? We want to account for unpredictable changes that might affect your data storage needs—like company growth, per-project needs, or just general areas.

With that number now defined, multiply it by 365. This is now your projected data growth for one year, which, when added to your initial amount, will determine how much storage you should look at obtaining.

Processing Resource Needs

Unlike data storage needs, processing needs are a lot more difficult to calculate exactly. The main goal here is to decide whether you want to put the heavy lifting on queries or on a local machine (or cloud instance). Keep in mind here that when I talk about a local machine, I don’t mean just the computer you normally use—you’ll likely need some kind of optimized workstation for the more intensive calculations.

To make this choice, it helps to think about the biggest data science project that you might run within the next year. Can your data solution handle a query of that size without becoming inaccessible to all other stakeholders? If it can, then you’re good to go with no additional resources needed. If not, then you’ll need to plan on getting an appropriately sized workstation or scaling cloud instances.

ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) Processes

After deciding where to store and process your data, the next decision is how. Creating an ETL process will keep your data science database orderly and updated and prevent it from using unnecessary resources from elsewhere.

Here’s what you should have in your ETL documentation:

• any backup procedures that should take place
• where data will be coming from and where it will be going
• the exact dimensions that should be moved
• how often the transfer should occur
• whether the transfer needs to be complete (rewrite the whole database) or can be additive (only move over new things)

Preparing a Solution

With all the data points in hand, it’s time to pick out a solution. This part will take a bit of research and will rely heavily on your specific needs, as on the surface they tend to have a lot of similarities.

Three of the biggest cloud solutions—Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), and Microsoft Azure—offer some of the best prices and features. All three have relatively similar costs, though AWS is notably more difficult to calculate costs for (due to its a la carte pricing structure).

Beyond price, each offers scalable data storage and the ability to add processing instances, though each calls its ‘instances’ by a different name. When researching which to use for your own infrastructure, take into account which types of projects you’ll be utilizing the most, as that can shift the value of each one’s pricing and feature set.

However, many companies simply select whichever aligns with their existing technology stack.

You may also want to set up your own infrastructure in-house, although this is significantly more complex and not for the faint of heart.

Extra Tips for Smooth Implementation

With all of your ducks in a row, you can start implementation! To help out, here are some hard-earned tips on making your project easier—from pitch to execution.

Test Your ETL Process

When you first put together your ETL process, don’t test the entire thing all at once! This can put some serious strain on your resources and increase your cloud costs drastically if there’s a mistake, or if you have to attempt the process several times.

Instead, it’s a good idea to run your process using just the first 100 rows or so of your origin tables at first. Then run the full transfer once you know it will work.

Test Your Queries Too

The same goes for any large query you run on a cloud instance. Making a mistake that pulls in millions of pieces of data is much harder on a system than one that only pulls in a few—especially when you’re paying per GB.

Create a Warehousing Backup Strategy

Most cloud operators offer this as a feature, so you may not have to worry about it. Your team should still discuss whether they would like to create their own regular backups of the data, though, or if it might be more effective to reconstruct the data should the need arise.

Security and Privacy Concerns

When moving customer data to the cloud, make sure that everyone involved is aware of your company’s data governance policies in order to prevent problems down the road. This can also help you save some money on the amount of data being stored in the cloud.

Dimension Naming During ETL

When performing your ETL from a table-based database to an unstructured one, be careful about naming procedures. If names are just wholesale transferred over, you’ll likely have a lot of fields from different tables sharing the same name. An easy way to overcome this at first is to name your new dimensions in the unstructured database as {oldtablename}_{columnname} and then rename them from there.

Get Your Motor Running!

Now you can plan the basics of your analytics and data science infrastructure. With many of the key questions and answers defined, the process of implementation and getting managerial buy-in should go much more smoothly. 

Having difficulty coming up with answers for your own company? Did I gloss over something important? Let me know in the comments!

How YouTube Star LaurDIY Went from Making Videos in Her Dorm to 17 Million Followers

With 8.4 million subscribers on YouTube and 17 million followers across social media platforms, LaurDIY star Lauren Riihimaki runs much more than a YouTube channel. She breaks down making her first videos and growing a brand outside of YouTube.

Want to Find Long-Term Happiness? Follow These 9 Simple Rules

It's common sense, but it's not common practice.

This Startup Built an 'Electronic Playground' That Teaches Kids How to Code

Can you teach kids to code during play time? Unruly Splats do just that.