Can You Increase Sales Using Amazon FBA?

Ecommerce is an excellent opportunity for small business owners. One way to use eCommerce to great success is through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and using Amazon arbitrage, which we will explain in more detail here. 

With the FBA business model, you don’t have to splurge on a lot of space or have your own website or warehouse to start building your own eCommerce empire. 

Here to talk about it more is Kristin Ostrander, Founder and CEO of Mommy Income. She sits down with the Shawn Hessinger, the Executive Editor for Small Business Trends to discuss building an online business with FBA Amazon.

For more from Kristin Ostrander, visit Mommy Income at classes.mommyincome.com.

What is Amazon FBA?

Shawn: What exactly is FBA, and how does it work?

Kristin: Amazon FBA is fulfillment by Amazon. Say you have a Shopify store, and you wanted to move it to Amazon. What happens is that Amazon gives you a specific label that you put on all your products, and you ship it all in one giant box or several giant boxes, pallets, truckloads, whatever. 

You send it to Amazon, and they distribute it to their warehouses—so that when your Amazon prime customer wants 2-day free shipping, they order from Amazon just like they usually would. Afterward, Amazon takes your product and ships it to your customer. 

So, they are fulfilling all your customer orders instead of you.

Like right now as we speak, I am probably selling something on Amazon. And Amazon is doing the work—they are picking it, packing it, and shipping it all, freeing business owners, sellers and everyone else to do important things, rather than fulfill shipping orders and having warehouses and all that stuff. 

Shawn: How do you get started doing this; what’s the first step?

Kristin: The first step is deciding how and what you want to sell. If you already have a product or a brand, and maybe you are even in retail stores and want to bring your brand to Amazon, you will sign up for their fulfillment program—or even just as a seller on Amazon. 

She adds that you don’t have to use FBA by Amazon, but most people choose to because that gives you access to all Prime customers.

If you choose to fulfill your items yourself, you’ll have to store them at your warehouse or your own facility—and then distribute them to each customer who buys them. So that’s kind of the difference between what they call merchant fulfill and FBA. 

But then—if you are just bringing your brand to Amazon and want to do FBA, sign up and go to their sell on Amazon, you can literally type that into Google “sell on Amazon.” Then, you can follow their step-by-step process.

She explains that it is not complicated to get started selling on Amazon, but it’s not as easy as snapping a few photos on eBay, sending the stuff off and then you are off and running. To verify it’s you, they do things like requiring your passport and going to a Zoom call where you hold your license next to your face to prove to them it’s you. 

She says they’ve been cutthroat about this because there have been bad players opening multiple accounts.

So, getting started is just signing up as a seller, and if you have a product, you are ahead of the game. If not, you need to start looking at the products you would like to sell and get started that way. 

What is Amazon Arbitrage?

Shawn: Is there another way of selling with Amazon that sellers might want to try first?

Kristin: Amazon has many different ways, methods, and business models. For example, one of the ones that most people start with in the beginning is retail arbitrage, which is going into regular stores like Target or Best Buy and buying stuff from their shelves and selling it on platforms such as Amazon. 

She adds that it’s breaking the ceiling, but there are people making millions of dollars doing Amazon arbitrage. So imagine it: many people are making a decent income selling their items while sitting at home surfing the net for deals to mark up and sell in their jammies. 

Kirstin says that another model is having your own private label brand. These sellers have created products that they sell on Amazon. Then you have your regular wholesale business model. It’s what typical brick & mortar stores do; they buy in bulk and then mark it up and sell it on their storefront. You will be doing the same with FBA, except you will be doing it digitally.

Kristin goes on to say that she uses a unique hybrid model that combines the private label concept and wholesale. In addition, she’s created her own model that she calls a ‘bundle gift set’ or ‘accessory pack.’ 

Kristin gives an example: Say you have a Dodge Ram that needs seat covers and other things. She says she puts together an accessory kit with about five common items to sell. She adds that she combines products people are buying anyway. 

How does she find out what those items are? Find that out and more when you watch the rest of the interview.

Find out More About How to Sell on Amazon 

Be sure to find out more about how to sell on Amazon and how to be an Amazon FBA business owner by watching the second part of the video. There, you’ll find helpful and actionable tips, such as: 

• How much you need to invest, what equipment you need to buy, etc. to start you FBA.
• Where to learn how to be an FBA seller without resorting to mining through a ton of DIY YouTube tutorials.
• How to pick a niche item that will make you money on Amazon.
• How easy and inexpensive marketing your items is as an FBA seller. 
• How long it will before you can expect to see returns on your initial investment. 

Let us know in the comments about how you feel about the video and whether you are thinking about becoming an Amazon FBA after watching. 

Listen on SoundCloud:

smallbiztrends · Can You Increase Sales Using Amazon FBA?

This article, "Can You Increase Sales Using Amazon FBA?" was first published on Small Business Trends

Do You Need Small Business Liability Insurance?

Oh, absolutely business owners do. If you’re operating a small business, you’re interacting at some level with a customer and this means protecting yourself with insurance.

Although the cost varies by type of operation, the business insurance benefits far outweigh the cost. And liability insurance coverage helps you protect your business. There are many types of business insurance products, making liability insurance a basic necessity for small business owners.

Let’s see how professional and general liability insurance coverage provide protection for you.

What is Liability Insurance for Small Businesses?

There are two basic types of liability insurance, professional and general liability insurance. Business owners could need one type or both:

• General liability insurance – General liability insurance is the most common business insurance coverage. General liability coverage protects your business if a client or visitor is injured at your place of business.General liability insurance also provides protection for damages you cause while doing business. For example, you’re a contractor and you break a customer’s window when you’re putting up your extension ladder. General liability insurance also will protect your business against claims of reputation harm (someone claims libel or slander) and advertising injury (someone is hurt by your product claims).
• Professional liability – Professional liability coverage is commonly called Errors and Omissions insurance. It protects against errors in the service provided. For example, you’re a financial planner and an investor’s portfolio goes south. Or you’re a couple’s counseling therapist and someone believes you gave bad advice.

Which Businesses Need Liability Insurance?

You may need both general liability insurance and professional liability insurance.

You need general liability insurance to operate a business. Without general liability coverage, you are leaving yourself open to lawsuits regarding your products and you are not covered for property damages you cause or accidents that happen to a visitor to your business. If a salesperson or visitor has a slip/fall injury at your place of business, you’re not covered.

You may need both types of business insurance if you provide professional services. Here’s an example: You are an accountant. One of your tax return clients slips on a wet floor in your office bathroom, tearing an ACL. That’s where general liability business insurance kicks in.

You give advice to a tax return client, recommending a different way to handle equipment depreciation to reduce taxes. Two years later, the client hears from the IRS. Your advice wasn’t correct and the client owes back taxes. That’s where professional liability coverage would provide coverage.

What Does General Liability Insurance Cover?

Here’s a more specific breakdown of what small business owners need to know about general liability insurance coverage.

Medical Expenses

General liability insurance policies cover you if a visitor or client suffers a bodily injury at your place of business. The person’s bills for medical treatment could be astronomical, and customer injury can involve medical bills plus court costs and attorney fees – an obvious reason for you to carry general liability insurance.

Property Damage

If you go to clients’ properties to do work, your general liability policy will cover you if you cause property damage. For example, you’re a landscaper and you cause property damage to a building when a rock discharges from a mower, or you run over a row of hydrangeas. In either case, you have damaged a person’s property while performing services, and you’re legally responsible.

Legal Defense Costs

One of the highest payouts an insurance company pays out on general liability claims isn’t for bodily injury – it is for the cost of legal fees. For example, the slip/fall bathroom injury to a client’s ACL causes stress and loss of income. In addition to seeking payment of medical expenses, the client sues for additional monies. Your general liability policy would cover legal defense costs, including legal fees and related costs.

Personal and Advertising Injury

General liability business insurance covers you if someone claims your product was promoted by false advertising. For example, you sell a mattress that is ‘guaranteed to reduce back pain’ and someone claims it didn’t work.

Personal injury claims come from someone who believes you have slandered or libeled their business. For example, you’re operating a food truck and one of your employees tells a customer that someone else’s food truck business doesn’t maintain cleanliness standards.

What Does Professional Liability Insurance Cover?

Errors and Omissions

This is broad coverage and protects you against a general liability claim of negligence, misrepresentation, or violation of good faith.

As you can imagine, these are general terms and claims typically involve legal fees. Your insurance company will cover defense costs including legal fees, the amount of a settlement/judgment (up to what’s set in the policy), and administrative costs (such as preparing documentation).

What is Not Covered by Business Liability Insurance?

Now that you know what is covered, you need to know what isn’t covered with this type of small business insurance:

• Commercial property insurance – Your general liability covers you if you damage someone else’s property, but to protect your own business property you need commercial property, which protects your building and business equipment. You may need commercial property insurance even if you operate from your house – unless you can get a “rider” from your homeowner’s policy to cover your business. You need commercial property even for premises rented by you.
• Commercial auto insurance – Yes, you need a separate commercial auto policy to cover a vehicle or vehicles you use to conduct business operations.
• Worker’s compensation – If you have employees, you need a separate worker’s compensation policy. In this age of subcontractors, many small business owners are opting to buy worker’s compensation policies that cover part-time and/or temporary workers, even 1099ers.
• Cyber Security – Many insurance companies are opting to either add this to their liability coverages or offer it as a separate policy. For example, you may be able to get a Business Owner’s policy which includes general and/or professional liability coverage, plus cyber security. Cyber security is needed for all normal business operations where customers’ personal data is needed as part of doing business. It’s one of the most overlooked and needed small business insurance products.

Small Business General Liability Insurance Cost

How much does general liability cost? The insurance policy cost varies by specific business and the business’s amount of revenue. It can also vary by your chosen coverage limits. If you choose an insurance company that offers umbrella coverages, such as a business owner’s policy, that will lower your general liability insurance cost.

In general, you can expect to pay as little as $29 a month for basic business liability insurance coverage.

Small Business Professional Liability Insurance Cost

Rates vary from one insurance company to another. Professional liability business insurance varies by type of business and annual revenue.

In general, you can expect to pay as little as $20 a month for basic coverage limits.

How to Choose the Right Liability Insurance for Your Small Busines

Before you get general liability insurance or professional liability insurance, speak with a legal professional about setting up your business as a limited liability company. By forming an LLC, you can get financial protection by separating your business assets from your personal assets.

Here are some tips for the small business owner:

• Network with other small business owners
• Shop online. With just a few clicks, you can start looking at quotes.
• Shop in person.
• Get a general liability insurance quote and a professional liability quote if needed, and compare.
• Carefully consider the deductible. With any claim, your rates will increase. Is it better to have a higher deductible – intending to pay for damages and not make a claim? How much could you afford to pay out of pocket?
• Evaluate your quotes.
• As a final deciding factor, call the customer service line that you’d use to make a claim. See if you would be able to tolerate the wait time.

Best General Liability Insurance for Small Business

Every business owner needs general liability insurance. Many also need professional liability insurance.

We’ve chosen companies which provide both. These companies also offer a Business Owners Policy or BOP, which can help you save money by combining policies under one umbrella.

These companies also offer cyber insurance and other insurance products. For example, Progressive offers commercial auto insurance.

The Hartford

The Hartford offers a wide variety of additional insurance products, and can also provide financial advice.

State Farm

State Farm offers riders to homeowners policies for many home-based businesses. If you have set up your business at home, you can save money by buying a rider instead of a separate policy.

NextInsurance

NextInsurance is the go-to for contractors and landscapers who want to set up a quick policy. NextInsurance also offers policies for daily, weekly or monthly periods of time.

Biberk

Biberk Insurance is a favorite for subcontractors who are working at third-party locations. Biberk offers many insurance policy options.

Progressive

Progressive is known as an auto insurance company but provides many types of business insurance. Since it offers both a general liability insurance policy and commercial auto, you may be able to save money by using the same carrier to get both types of insurance.

Image: Envato Elements

This article, "Do You Need Small Business Liability Insurance?" was first published on Small Business Trends

Best Large Computer Monitors of 2022

Display technology allows you to get large monitors for your computer with incredibly vivid images across many different form factors. Whether you are an accountant, editor, graphics designer, developer, or anything in between, you can find a desktop monitor to make your workflow more efficient and enjoyable.

Even more impressive is that you can get some of the best computer monitors at affordable prices. But if you want the best computer monitor with the latest technology on large monitors, you will pay a premium for them. Take a look at our list to get a basic idea of what is available in the marketplace.

Best Computer Monitors of 2022

A number of factors go into choosing the best monitors for your business. It all starts with your business needs and extends to the screen configuration, performance, and ergonomics.

Here are some of the best monitors for your business.

Samsung Business CH890 Series WQHD Large Monitor – 34 Inch

Top Pick:  This unit from Samsung is a 34-inch WQHD 3440×1440 ultrawide curved desktop monitor with some great features at an affordable price. This is ranked the best monitored by users with multiple windows and a 21:9 aspect ratio with a 100Hz refresh rate, AMD Free Sync, a 4ms response time, and a 3000: 1 contrast ratio.

The stand includes height adjustment, tilt, swivel, and VESA mounting options.

This makes it ideal for everything from crunching data to multimedia tasks. And when it comes to connectivity, you can connect via HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB Type-C.  Samsung offers a 3-Year business with extended warranties available for purchase.

Samsung Business CH890 Series 34-inch WQHD 3440×1440 Ultrawide Curved Desktop Monitor for Business

Buy on Amazon

 

ViewSonic VP3881 WQHD+ UltraWide Monitor for Business – 38 Inch

Runner Up: ViewSonic is known for its wide range of monitors, and this 38-inch WQHD+ 4K ultrawide curved unit doesn’t disappoint. You will get a 3840x1600p display with 60Hz and SuperClear IPS display if you do many graphic and video work. Other features include HDR10 content support, easy hardware calibration, and screen-wide 100% sRGB.

The connectivity includes a USB 3.1 Type C, HDMI 2. 0 with HDCP 2. 2, and DisplayPort inputs. ViewSonic provides a 3-year coverage.

Buy on Amazon

 

Acer ConceptD CM3 CM3271K UHD 4K Computer Monitor – 27 Inch

Best Value: The Acer monitor is an excellent value for the price. Although the size is 27 inches, it is loaded with premium features. It begins with a UHD 4K 3840 x 2160 IPS, a Radeon FreeSync display, Pantone validated, and 99% Adobe RGB color space.

The features will make your workflow much easier if you are a creator. It is tested and calibrated to achieve a super-low Delta E <2 to achieve true-to-life color accuracy. Additionally, it has a light-shielding hood, Display Port, 2 x HDMI, USB Type-C, and USB Ports.

Acer ConceptD CM3 CM3271K bmiipruzx 27? Radeon FreeSync Monitor, Pantone Validated

Buy on Amazon

 

LG 34WN780-B UltraWide QHD – 34 Inch

At 34 inches, this LG has a 21:9 aspect ratio so that you can work more efficiently. The monitor has a WQHD 3440 x 1440 IPS HDR display, an sRGB 99% color gamut, and HDR 10.

The Ergo Stand for this monitor is a standout because it allows you to extend, retract, swivel, height, pivot, and tilt the display. And the compact design takes up little space on your desk. The connectivity includes 2 USB ports, 2 HDMI, and one display Port.

LG 34WN780-B 34 Inch 21:9 UltraWide QHD (3440 x 1440) Display Ergo with 3-Side Virtually Borderless Design

Buy on Amazon

 

Dell U4320Q 2160p 4K UltraSharp Big Monitor – 43 Inch

Dell says this is the world’s first height-adjustable 42.5-inch 4K monitor that lets you tilt, swivel, and adjust to your specifications. The LED display is a 4K UHD 2160P unit with 103ppi. A thin bezel makes this 43-inch Dell monitor seem even bigger than it is.

The connectivity includes HDMI 1, HDMI 2, DP 1, DP 2, USB Type-C/Display, USB Type-A ports (2), and USB Type-C downstream ports.

The company also offers its Dell Premium Panel Guarantee with this monitor. You get a free panel replacement during the Limited Hardware Warranty period. Dell says this is even if only one bright pixel is found.

Dell U4320Q 43 Inch 2160p 4K UltraSharp, IPS Thin Bezel Monitor, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, VESA Certified

Buy on Amazon

 

ASUS ProArt PA34VC Curved Monitor UWQHD – 34 Inch

This ASUS is a 34-inch LED curved 3440 x 1440 IPS UWQHD monitor with a 100Hz refresh rate, HDR-10, and a 21: 9 aspect ratio. Along with these impressive specs, there are some great connectivity options, including 2 Thunderbolt 3, DisplayPort 1.2, and 3 HDMI 2 ports.

Picture-in-picture (PIP) and Picture-by-Picture (PBP) functionality allow you to simultaneously use the entire monitor from different sources. And a 1900R curvature provides an expanded field of view with a wide 178° viewing angle.

ASUS ProArt PA34VC 34? Curved Monitor Uwqhd 100Hz HDR-10 IPS Eye Care TB3 DP 1.2 HDMI 2.0B

Buy on Amazon

 

BenQ PD3220U 4K Monitor IPS – 32 Inch

The BenQ PD3220U is the perfect size for an office looking for a large monitor, and it comes loaded with some great specs. It all starts with a 4K, 3840×2160 resolution, advanced IPS display, and 60Hz refresh rate. The sRGB color space is at 100%, the DCI-P3 and Display P3 is 95%, Rec. 709 color spaces, and 10-bit color.

You can adjust the height, tilt, swivel, and a 90-degree pivot to view the display in portrait mode. Moreover, it has designer modes such as animate, darkroom, and CAD/CAM to view images and videos next to each other on the screen.

The connectivity includes DisplayPort, 2x HDMI, and 2x USB-C with Thunderbolt 3.

BenQ PD3220U 32 inch 4K Monitor IPS, HDR, AQCOLOR, Display P3, DCI-P3, sRGB, Thunderbolt 3 for Mac users

Buy on Amazon

 

Sceptre Curved Gaming LED Monitor – 24 Inch

Sometimes, all you need is a simple screen that can get the job done. However, at its price range, this 24-inch Sceptre screen is a true bargain. It comes with a curved screen, and as you might already know, curved screens are good for the eyes as they allow us to take in everything at once, without strain. This screen comes with HDMI, VGA and PC audio ports and a 30,000 plus lamp life. With 1080P resolution, this screen provides excellent color and visual detail.

Sceptre 24″ Curved 75Hz Gaming LED Monitor Full HD Speakers

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SAMSUNG SJ55W Ultrawide Monitor – 34 Inch

Looking for a reliable, stylish, and practical monitor? Look no further than the 34-inch Samsung SJ55W. This beautiful monitor provides a crisp screen resolution of 3440×1440 pixels, which is approximately 2.4 times the density of Full HD. This screen also allows for easy multi-tasking with the Picture-in-Picture (PIP) feature that allows users to cast the second source to up to 25% of the screen and position it anywhere. Whether you’re playing games, watching movies, or working on documents, you’ll enjoy all your content in superbly detailed wide quad high definition.

SAMSUNG 34-Inch SJ55W Ultrawide Monitor For Business

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LG 32MP60G-B Monitor – 31.5 Inch

Available in a variety of sizes, the LG 32MP60G-B is an affordable high-performance monitor. It offers Full HD IPS clarity and true color expression. The virtually borderless monitor also comes with a super easy-to-use control that allows for quick optimization of screen settings for the job at hand. Are you a gaming enthusiast? This gaming monitor comes with Radeon FreeSync technology that allows for smooth and fast gameplay.

LG 32MP60G-B Monitor 31.5″ FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS Display.

Buy on Amazon

 

AOC 32-inch QHD Monitor – 32 Inch

This widescreen monitor boasts a 32-inch screen size with 2K QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution. It also comes with crisp contrast, wide viewing angles, and superior consistent color temperature all of which allows for excellent image reproduction. The LowBlue mode reduces the amount of harmful blue light preventing eye stress. HDMI, DisplayPort 1.2, and earphone ports are also available.

AOC Q32V3S 32″ 2560×1440 2K QHD Monitor, VA Panel.

Buy on Amazon

 

Z-Edge Curved Gaming Monitor – 32 Inch

This 32-inch Z-edge curved screen comes with all the features that you need in a great monitor. Designed for gaming, this screen comes with an impressive 240Hz refresh rate that eliminates input latency, stutter, and screen tearing for a pro-gaming experience. It also has stunning crystal-clear images thanks to the Full HD 1920*1080 resolution. The curved screen offers a maximum immersion experience. A display port and two HDMI inputs provide easy connection points for multiple devices. This gaming monitor supports the VESA mount and easily attaches to the mounting arm or on the wall.

Z-Edge UG32P 32-inch Curved Gaming Monitor

Buy on Amazon

 

How to Choose the Best Large Monitors for Your Business

Here’s a startling stat – the average worker spends about 1,700 hours each year looking at a computer monitor! With this in mind, the question of whether or not you need a quality computer monitor, therefore, becomes a no-brainer. However, there are tons of different products and brands available. So how do you choose a computer monitor that fits your business needs?

Screen Size

While a big screen size is great, it is not always cost-effective and practical. A basic 22-inch screen size is ideal for basic office tasks and will easily fit in smaller spaces. However, if cost and space are not determining factors, larger screen sizes, 29-inch and above are ideal for multi-tasking.

Curvature

Curved screens have become quite popular in recent years. They provide a more immersive experience. The curvature allows our eyes to take in everything at once, without strain. Most curved monitors feel larger than their actual screen space as eyes easily cover a wider field of view.

Resolution and Aspect Ration

Nowadays, nearly every monitor displays content in high definition. Models under 22 inches usually have a 720p resolution. Larger screen sizes will be available in Full High-Definition. Are you a graphic designer or work with highly detailed images? Go for the WQHD monitor which offers 2,560×1,440 resolution. On top of the resolution food chain are the Ultra High-Definition (UHD), 4K, and 8K monitors.

Along with the resolution, monitors also have different aspect ratios. The 4:3 aspect ratio was popular before the new display technology, and they are also getting phased out with the best picture quality. The 16:9 is a comprehensive and most common format in the marketplace. Beyond the 16:9, there is also 21:9, an ultrawide display, and 32:9, a super-wide version.

Refresh Rate

The refresh rate refers to the number of times it can update every second, measured in Hz or hertz. The higher the refresh rate, the less the latency, which also translates to smoother images. The refresh rate is especially an important feature to consider when looking for gaming monitors. However, keep in mind that the monitor will display an image at the rate that the system produces it, so it is important that your computer is capable of completing the process quickly. If your computer is incapable of supplying the computer monitors with a high number of frames, then your monitor won’t produce a high refresh rate regardless of how good its specs are.

Panel Types

The most common types of panels are TN (Twisted Nematic), VA (Vertical Alignment), and In-Panel Switching otherwise known as IPS panels. TN panel technology is usually the most cost-effective of the panels as it costs less to manufacture. You will get more accurate color, wider viewing angles, and grayscale performance from Multi-Domain Vertical Alignment (MVA), Patterned Vertical Alignment (PVA) and IPS panel than you will from the TN panel. But if you do not need lots of picture settings and a high degree of accuracy, most TN panels will get the job done.

Price

Even when looking for the best computer monitors, price is always a factor for most small businesses. A basic 22-inch monitor can cost anywhere from $150 to $250. For a larger screen size in the 27-inch range be prepared to part with between $300 and $400. For about $500 you will get the ultra-wide 29-inch monitors. These are usually great for viewing multiple windows. As usual, be prepared to spend more for business monitors with high-resolution panels and features such as USB C connectivity, multiple digital inputs, webcams, and height-adjustable stands.

HDMI vs. DisplayPort

In the past, monitors used to come with either a DVI or VGA port, but today the best monitors come with a DisplayPort or HDMI port. A DisplayPort is similar to the HDMI port as it carries both video and audio output over a single cable and it can also handle 4K content with a 240Hz refresh rate. The HDMI port on the other hand carries both audio and video signals. For the average consumer, the HDMI port offers a simple way to connect two devices. However, if you are an avid gamer, go for a gaming monitor with a DisplayPort.

USB C Connectivity

Some of the best monitors come with a USB C port. This allows for a cleaner, minimalist setup and a delightfully seamless workflow. This port supports sound, video, and data transmission. It also comes with a fast transmission and even comes with power delivery that allows you to charge your devices or other peripherals.

Features

This is closely related to price. The more features you get, the more you’ll have to pay. Some of the best computer monitors will come with a DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI, and VGA connectivity, and a highly adjustable ergonomic stand. However, make sure your PC can utilize all these features, otherwise, there is no need to pay for the extra features. Try and have at least one HDMI port as it will help you to connect with lots of external devices.

Ergonomics

The wrong computer monitor can irritate your eyes, causing fatigue and dryness, in addition to headaches. The best computer monitor will use an LED backlight that helps to reduce the risk of eye irritation and associated issues. Likewise, blue light emission can tamper with your sleep patterns. The best computer will come with a blue light filter and also allows for on-the-spot ergonomic adjustments.

Light Sensor

The office lighting changes throughout the day, but how many times do you adjust your monitor’s brightness to match it? The best gaming monitor will come with built-in ambient light sensors. These sensors automate the brightness and screen dimming process for a more comfortable viewing experience.

Energy Efficiency

If you are buying a number of computer monitors for your business, you need to also check out their energy efficiency rating. Make sure your preferred monitor, whether that’s a portable monitor or a gaming monitor, is Energy Star compliant.

Extras

Desktop monitors with built-in speakers can help you reclaim valuable desk space, but they are usually tiny sounding and underpowered. Consider buying a computer soundbar for high-quality sounds. Some of the best monitors come with VESA-compliant mounting holes. Also, check out if the monitor comes with a warranty that at least covers backlighting, labor and parts.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

• Best Office Chairs for Your Business in 2022
• The Best Work Shoes for Men in 2022
• Best Office Floor Mats for 2022
• Best Smart Security Camera for Your Office
• Best Baby Changing Stations for Your Business

Qualify for discounts, special offers and more with a Business Prime account from Amazon. You can create a FREE account to get started today.

Image: amazon

This article, "Best Large Computer Monitors of 2022" was first published on Small Business Trends

How to Use the Canva T-Shirts Maker

You already know the ins and outs of how to start a t-shirt business, but how do you create t-shirt designs? In this article, we’ll show you how to use the Canva t-shirt designer to create professional-looking tees.

We’ll cover everything from choosing the right template to adding text and graphics. So whether you’re just starting out or looking for ways to improve your existing t-shirt business, read on for some helpful tips!

What is the Canva T-Shirt Maker?

With print-on-demand services exploding in popularity, what is Canva to do but create an amazing user-friendly graphic design tool that anyone can use to create amazing designs, regardless of their prior experience or skill level. One of the most popular features of Canva is the T-shirt maker, which allows users to design personalized shirts with ease.

Why You Should be Using the Canva T-Shirt Maker for Your Business

The Canva T-shirt maker is an affordable, easy-to-use option that will help you create professional-looking designs with ease. And since it’s online, there’s no need to download or install any software.

• It’s User-Friendly – Canva is already one of the most user-friendly graphic design tools out there, and the t-shirt maker is no different. With easy-to-follow instructions and a wide variety of templates to choose from, you can create a professional-looking t-shirt in minutes.
• It’s Affordable – With no need to purchase expensive software or design equipment, Canva is an extremely affordable way to get started in the t-shirt business.
• There’s No Learning Curve – Because the Canva t-shirt maker is so user-friendly, there’s no need to spend time learning how to use complex design software. This means you can get started on your t-shirt business right away!
• You Can Stand Out from the Competition – With so many businesses selling t-shirts, it’s important to find ways to stand out from the competition. Canva’s t-shirt maker allows you to easily create unique designs that will make your shirts stand out from the rest.

How to Create a T-Shirt on Canva: A Step By Step Guide

Creating a t-shirt design on Canva is easy by using one of their pre-designed templates. And it’s a lot cheaper than highering a graphic designer. Let’s go through the steps:

Step 1: Create a New Design

Log into or signup for your Canva account to create t-shirt designs. Then in the top left corner of your screen, click “Features” then “Custom t-shirts.” This is a part of Canva print, which lets you create various print-on-demand designs.

Step 2: Start From Scratch or Use a Template

Either create your own t-shirt design and start with a blank canvas or get started using one of Canva’s beautiful pre-made designs. They have a ton of templates to choose from across many different niches.

Step 3: Choose a Template

If you decide to use a template, find one that appeals to you and click on it. Then click the “Customize this template” button. This will add the template to your canvas area where you can begin making changes.

Step 4: Change File Name

Create a new file name for your design at the top right of your screen. Give it a name that will make it easy for you to find in Canva.

Step 5: Edit Template Graphics

Delete any graphics you don’t want in your design by simply clicking on them and hitting delete or backspace on your keyboard. You can add new graphics using the “Photos” and “Elements” sections or even upload your own photos. Use the built-in background remover tool if needed. When you find graphics you like, simply drag and drop them onto your canvas.

Step 6: Edit Template Font

If you’d like to edit your design’s font, simply click on the words you want to modify. Click on the font box at the upper left corner of your screen. A large font selection pane will open. When you find the font you like, click on it.

Step 7: Adjusting Image Size and Placement

To move an image, click on it and drag it to your desired position. To change the image’s size, click and drag one of the corners to make it bigger or smaller.

Step 8: Download Your Design

To download your new design, click “Share” at the top right, then click “Download.” If you have a Canva Pro account, you can select “Transparent background” for a PNG image. A transparent background makes it easy for your design to look awesome in different t-shirt colors. Once your options are set, click the “Download” button.

Step 9: Make Your T-Shirt Designs 300 DPI

To print t-shirts designs need to be in 300 DPI high resolution. However, PNG images download at about 96 DPI from Canva. The quick, easy fix is to use the Clideo DPI converter.

Canva T-Shirt Design Examples

There’s a right way and a wrong way to create designs for tees. Here are four examples of amazing Canva designs.

All You Need is Love

This is a perfect design for cat lovers out there. It’s a beautiful design brought to us by the talented designer yganko.

Stay Cool Everywhere Dog

For all you dog lovers out there, Craftidea designed something really “Cool.” This design is sure to be a hit among dog owners.

Follow Your Dreams

With this simple, yet gorgeous design, Vasya Kobelev shares an important message to follow your dreams.

I’m at Work

Rodion Altynbaev brings us a humorous, fitness-themed t-shirt design with an exercising snail hard at work.

Can You Sell T-Shirts with Canva designs?

The short answer is yes. However, your design has to be an original creation that either you or someone you hired created. You can’t simply take one of Canva’s templates, put it on a t-shirt or any other product and sell it. That violates their Content License Agreement.

Image: Envato Elements

This article, "How to Use the Canva T-Shirts Maker" was first published on Small Business Trends

Time is Running Out to Apply for These Small Business Grants in June

If you want to start or grow a small business this summer, you need the resources to achieve your goals. Small business grants can provide the funds necessary to help business start, grow, or recover from recent challenges.

Small Business Grants with a June 2022 Deadline

This June, there are tons of opportunities available for small businesses across the country. We’ve compiled a list of the grant opportunities for small business owners that expire at the end of this month.

North Carolina Business Recovery Grant Program

North Carolina’s Department of Revenue is rolling out a second phase of its Business Recovery Grant Program. The program includes $200 million in funding for those that lost income due to the pandemic. The amount of each grant will be determined based on a percentage of the economic loss, with a $500,000 maximum. This round is open to a variety of businesses, including farms, gyms, salons, doctors, and dry cleaners. June 1 is the deadline to apply.

Norcross ARPA Small Business Grant Program

Norcross, Georgia and Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs are launching the city’s new Small Business Grant Program. The $600,000 program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act to support small businesses affected by COVID-19. Applicants must demonstrate a need for funds and provide documentation for how money is spent. Applications are due by June 2.

West New York Small Business Grant Program

West New York, New Jersey is supporting small businesses affected by the pandemic with a new grant program. Eligible businesses can apply for grants of up to $5,000. To qualify, businesses must be up to date with taxes, have no more than 25 employees, and demonstrate hardships due to COVID. June 3 is the deadline to apply.

Belton Small Business Relief Grants

Belton, Texas is providing $850,000 in COVID-19 relief funds to a new small business grant program. Businesses that were financially impacted by COVID-19 and have fewer than 100 employees with a physical location in Belton can apply online. Grant amounts may range from $5,000 to $20,000. Applications are due by June 3.

Velocity Fund

Velocity Fund is a grant program that supports artists in Philadelphia. The program includes a wide interpretation of art. So individuals and businesses in a huge array of fields, from culinary arts to tattoo artistry, can apply. Eligible artists can apply for grants of up to $5,000, with an emphasis on projects that are experimental or collaborative. June 6 is the deadline to apply.

Red Bluff Small Business Comeback Grant Program

The Red Bluff-Tehama County Chamber of Commerce is offering COVID recovery grants to local small businesses. The Small Business Comeback Grant program supports small businesses in Red Bluff, California that suffered due to the pandemic. The program includes $100,000 in total funds, which will be distributed in individual grants of $5,000. Applications are due June 10.

Peoria RISE

Peoria RISE is a small business grant program that stands for Recovery, Income, Startup, Expansion. The program supports Peoria, Illinois businesses that were distressed by the pandemic. Businesses can apply for grants of up to $50,000 to open a commercial space, expand staff, or focus on any of the areas the grant focuses on. Eligible businesses can apply on the Peoria Economic Development Department’s website by June 10.

Initiative Foundation Grants

The Initiative Foundation is supporting central Minnesota’s smallest businesses through a one-time grant program. Funded by a grant from the Otto Bremer Trust, the $500,000 program will offer grants of up to $10,000 to support pandemic recovery efforts. The program focuses on businesses with five or fewer full-time employees and less than $750,000 in annual gross revenue that face barriers to access other funding. This includes companies owned by women, veterans, and community members of color, along with rural businesses and those opened just before the pandemic.. The application period closes at noon June 10.

Comcast RISE

Comcast is awarding $5 million in grants to small businesses across five major metropolitan areas. The program prioritizes businesses owned by women and people of color in Detroit, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and the Twin Cities. Eligible businesses can apply for grants of $10,000, along with consulting services and technology upgrades. The application period opens June 1, and applications are due June 14.

Elk County Aid to Small Businesses Grants Program

Elk County, Pennsylvania is making American Rescue Plan Act funds available to small businesses. The Aid to Small Businesses Grants Program supports Elk County businesses with five or fewer employees that were negatively affected by the pandemic. Grants may range from $1,000 to $5,000. Applications must be received by June 15 to be considered.

One North Carolina Small Business Program

The One North Carolina Small Business Program is offering a new round of funding for small businesses. The organization specifically supports the state’s emerging tech companies. The program matches federal grants from the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs, while also helping the state’s businesses prepare their proposals. The application period is open until June 30 or until funds have been distributed.

Aurora Safety and Security Grant Program

Aurora, Colorado is launching a new $3 million grant program to support safety and security among local small businesses. The Aurora Safety and Security Grant Program will fund safety and security upgrades like lighting, alarms, and entrance doors. City-approved contractors must perform the work, and eligible applicants will go through an assessment with the Aurora Police Department to approve potential upgrades. Grant funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a final deadline of June 30.

Wisconsin Main Street Bounceback Program

Wisconsin’s Main Street Bounceback Program includes $34 million in grant funding for small businesses. Eligible businesses can apply for grants of $10,000. Specifically, the program targets businesses that move into vacant commercial spaces. Companies that do so by the end of June can apply through one of Wisconsin Economic Development Center’s regional partners.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "Time is Running Out to Apply for These Small Business Grants in June" was first published on Small Business Trends

15 Real Estate Business Ideas

As an entrepreneur, you’re always on the lookout for new opportunities and small business ideas for beginners. So when it comes to the real estate industry, why not explore all of the different possibilities?

What is a Real Estate Business?

A real estate business helps people buy, sell, or lease properties. It can also involve managing or investing in homes. Usually, a real estate business needs a license to operate.

The Real Estate Market in 2022

The demand for real estate is strong and will likely remain high in 2022, according to experts. Houses for sale received about 3.8 buy offers as we got closer to 2022, up slightly from a couple of years ago.

Why You Should Consider Starting a Real Estate Industry Business

If you’re looking for an exciting and rewarding career in an ever-changing field, the real estate industry is worth considering! With so many available real estate business ideas out there, here are 5 reasons you should get started:

• High demand. The real estate market is growing rapidly, and there’s lots of opportunity for real estate professionals who are willing to put in the work.
• Earn a good income. The market is booming and there are many ways to earn money in the industry, such as property management and development.
• Be your own boss. If you don’t like working for someone else, real estate is a great way to be self-employed. You can set your hours, work from home, and be in control of your career.
• Help people achieve their dreams. One of the best things about working in real estate is that you get to help people find their perfect home or investment property. It’s a very rewarding feeling to know that you’ve helped someone achieve their dreams.
• Challenging and ever-changing industry. The real estate industry is constantly changing, so you’ll never get bored. There are always new challenges to keep you on your toes, and new opportunities to explore.

Best Ideas for Real Estate Businesses

We’ve compiled a list of 15 great real estate business ideas to get you started. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate professional or new to the real estate industry, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.

1. Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent is someone who helps people buy and sell houses. The selling process can be complicated, and a good agent will guide their clients through every step of the process. We won’t discuss how much money do real estate agents make in this article, but it’s a lucrative market, and good real estate agents can make a lot of money.

2. Real Estate Photographer

This profession can be a lot of fun. It’s a great way to meet new people and see new places. And, of course, it’s always exciting to see your photos in print.

3. Manage Rental Properties

This idea involves managing houses like single-family homes, apartments, or other renting properties. It’s a great career for someone who enjoys working with people and helping them solve problems.

4. Commercial Property Management

There are always businesses looking for someone to manage their commercial properties. This can be a very challenging and rewarding career for someone with good managerial skills.

5. Real Estate Investor

Many people think that being a real estate investor is all about making a quick buck. The reality is that many real estate investors are in it for the long haul. They’re looking at purchasing properties that will generate passive income and appreciate over time.

6. Real Estate Brokerage

This is a real estate company that helps people buy and sell properties. This can be a very profitable business, but it’s important to have a good understanding of the housing market.

7. Real Estate Marketer

A real estate marketer is someone who creates and implements marketing plans for a property listing. They work with agents and clients to create a strategy that will generate the most interest in a property.

Read More: 30 Real Estate Marketing Tips

8. Real Estate Appraisal Service

Appraisal service is a business that provides appraisals of real estate properties. These appraisals are used to help people determine the value of a property for a variety of reasons, such as insurance purposes or to estimate taxes.

9. Property Flipping Business

Investors who are successful in this business can make a lot of money by buying low and selling high. Since you don’t need a lot of money to get started, flipping is a great way to get into the real estate market.

10. Real Estate Developers

Real estate developers buy land to develop it into something else such as a new housing subdivision or a shopping mall. Many developers specialize in raw land, which is undeveloped land that has not yet been built on.

11. Real Estate Blog

Not only will you be able to generate income through advertising and affiliate marketing, but you’ll also build your social media presence. This is a great way to get your name out there and attract new clients.

Read More: 30 Worpress Real Estate Themes for Realtors

12. Real Estate Inspections

Real estate inspection businesses are in high demand. They ensure that the buyer is getting what they paid for and that the seller is disclosing any and all information about the property.

13. Landscaping Business

These businesses offer services related to the design and maintenance of outdoor spaces. This includes anything from planting trees and shrubs to mowing lawns and installing irrigation systems.

14. Cleaning Service

This business provides cleaning services to its clients. This can include anything from cleaning houses to office buildings. It’s a great business for someone who is organized and enjoys working with people.

15. Home Staging Service

Starting a home staging service can be a great way to make some extra money, but it’s also a very fulfilling way to work. Home staging is all about making a house look as appealing as possible to potential buyers. This can be done by rearranging furniture, adding in accessories, or even painting the walls a different color.

What Type of Business is Best for Real Estate?

This depends on the individual’s goals and experiences. Someone who is interested in helping people find their dream home may be better suited to working as an agent.

However, someone with experience in construction and development may be better suited to becoming a developer.

The most successful real estate business is the one that best matches the individual’s skill set and goals.

What Type of Real Estate Makes the Most Money?

If you want to keep your real estate business profitable, you’ll want to focus on properties that generate positive cash flow. To have a profitable venture you’ll need to find properties with high rental rates or by developing properties that can be sold at a premium price.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "15 Real Estate Business Ideas" was first published on Small Business Trends