In a world where businesses evolve at lightning speed, your brand can’t just keep up—it needs to lead the way. Whether you’re building your empire or fine-tuning an already stellar brand, these 10 brand strategy tips will help you stand out, connect with your audience, and turn heads in all the right ways.

1. Revisit Your Brand Identity
Does your brand still scream “this is who we are”? If not, it’s time for a refresh. Make sure your values, mission, and vibe are front and center—and resonating with your audience.
2. Conduct Market Research
Stay ahead of the pack by diving into trends, consumer preferences, and what your competitors are up to. Knowledge isn’t just power; it’s your secret weapon.
3. Define Your Target Audience
Who loves you, and why? Get crystal clear on your ideal audience—their needs, dreams, and challenges—and speak directly to them.
4. Enhance Visual Branding
Your look matters. Make your logo, colors, and imagery unforgettable, consistent, and impossible to ignore across every platform.
5. Craft Compelling Messaging
Words are your superpower. Sharpen your messaging to be authentic, punchy, and uniquely you—because no one does what you do quite like you.
6. Leverage Content Marketing
Be the brand that educates, inspires, and entertains. Blogs, videos, infographics—your content should be as dynamic as your audience.
7. Embrace Personalization
One-size-fits-all? Not here. Personalize experiences and content to make your audience feel like you get them.
8. Foster Brand Advocacy
Turn customers, employees, and partners into your biggest cheerleaders. Give them reasons (and incentives) to share their love for your brand.
9. Prioritize Customer Experience
Wow your audience at every step. From first impressions to lifelong loyalty, make every interaction seamless and unforgettable.
10. Stay Agile and Adaptive
Change is constant, but so is opportunity. Stay flexible, pivot when needed, and always be ready to embrace what’s next.
Your brand isn’t just a business—it’s a movement. By taking these tips to heart, you’ll create a brand strategy that not only turns heads but also builds connection, loyalty, and momentum.

About the AuthorPamela Downes is the Founding Partner of REV Creative Group, a branding, marketing, and communications firm serving nonprofits, professional services, and purpose-driven organizations. With over two decades of experience helping brands grow, she brings heart, strategy, and clarity to every project.
Want to Strengthen Your Brand Strategy?

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Guest Blog by Daniel Garedew - Owner, Merchant Services United

In today’s rapidly evolving payment landscape, businesses face an array of payment processing options, technologies, and regulatory challenges. As the market becomes increasingly competitive and complex, many businesses are turning to merchant services professionals to simplify operations and improve their bottom line. Here, we explore the three biggest advantages of working with a merchant services professional.

1.  Expert Guidance and Industry Knowledge - Merchant services professionals bring a wealth of industry expertise that can be invaluable for businesses navigating the intricacies of payment processing. Their extensive knowledge allows them to assess a company’s unique needs and recommend tailored solutions that ensure smooth transactions. Instead of spending countless hours trying to decode technical jargon, small business owners can rely on these experts to break down the nuances of various payment methods—from traditional credit card processing to the latest in contactless payments and mobile transactions.

This deep understanding of the industry also means that a merchant services professional is often up-to-date on emerging trends, technology innovations, and best practices. As a result, they can provide proactive advice, helping businesses avoid pitfalls such as excessive fees or inefficient systems. This expert guidance not only streamlines the payment process but also contributes to overall business efficiency, allowing owners to focus on core activities while leaving the complexities of payment processing in capable hands.

2.  Customized Solutions for Business Growth - Every business is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works in the dynamic world of payment processing. Merchant services professionals understand that each business has its own set of challenges and opportunities. Whether a company operates primarily online, has a brick- and-mortar presence, or employs a hybrid model, these professionals are skilled at tailoring solutions that address specific operational needs and growth objectives.

Customized solutions might include integrating various payment channels, setting up multi- currency processing for global transactions, or optimizing in-store payment terminals to reduce transaction times. By providing a personalized approach, merchant services professionals help businesses enhance the customer experience, streamline their operations, and ultimately drive growth. This level of customization can lead to improved efficiency and cost savings, as businesses are only paying for the services they truly need rather than unnecessary extras that come with generic packages.

3.  Enhanced Security and Compliance - In an era marked by increasing cyber threats and stringent regulatory requirements, security is more critical than ever. Merchant services professionals are well-versed in the latest security protocols and compliance standards, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). By partnering with these professionals, businesses can ensure that their payment processing systems adhere to the highest security standards, protecting sensitive customer data from potential breaches.

Beyond just meeting compliance requirements, a merchant services professional can implement advanced security measures that detect and prevent fraud before it becomes a significant issue. This proactive approach to security not only minimizes the risk of financial loss but also helps build trust with customers. In turn, businesses can leverage their robust security framework as a selling point, demonstrating their commitment to protecting customer information and maintaining the integrity of their operations.

Conclusion - Working with a merchant services professional offers substantial advantages that go beyond simple payment processing. Their expert guidance and industry knowledge help businesses navigate the complexities of modern payment systems with ease. The ability to offer customized solutions ensures that businesses can adapt to changing market dynamics and meet their unique operational needs. Finally, enhanced security and compliance provide a safeguard against emerging cyber threats and regulatory challenges, instilling confidence in both the business and its customers.

Ultimately, partnering with a merchant services professional is an investment in the long-term success of a business. By leveraging their expertise, companies can optimize their payment systems, reduce costs, and secure a competitive edge in the marketplace. Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a larger enterprise, the advantages of professional support in the merchant services industry are clear and far-reaching.

To learn more or schedule a meeting, please reach out to me directly 240-449-4029 or [email protected].

While Montgomery County has a reputation for affluence, more than 76,100 residents of our county live on incomes below the Federal Poverty Line. It costs about $135,500 a year for a family with two working parents and two children to afford necessities without subsidies.  (Source: Glasmeier, Amy K. Living Wage Calculator. 2024. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. https://livingwage.mit.edu/counties/24031.) That covers just the basics: no birthday presents, no occasional treat at a fast food restaurant, and no financial cushion to cover things like your car needing a new tire.

Helping these neighbors is the mission of Interfaith Works (IW), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves people experiencing poverty and homelessness through emergency shelter, supportive housing, essential needs, and employment programs. IW serves 35,000 residents of Montgomery County every year. There are concerning trends in our community. An annual snapshot of people experiencing homelessness conducted in 2024 found a significant increase in homelessness from 2023 to 2024. There was a 28% increase, from 894 to 1,144 people. To put this in the state context, Montgomery County accounts for nearly 20% of the people who are experiencing homelessness in Maryland.

Those doing the survey also reported seeing more people experiencing homelessness in communities that are atypical, including Potomac and North Bethesda.

 WHY IS THIS HAPPENING?  
There are numerous factors contributing to this increase, including:  

• the lack of affordable housing in the Montgomery County;  
• continually increasing rents;  
• inflation;  
• denial of housing applications due to criminal or credit history;  
• source-of-income discrimination by landlords;  
• increased evictions;  
• dwindling eligibility for federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program funds; and  
• the significant inflow of unhoused individuals into the County from other jurisdictions. 

Homelessness is something that happens for a wide array of reasons. These include:

• loss of job;
• loss of spouse;
• the need to flee an abusive spouse or partner;
• sudden illness;
• chronic illness or disability that limits the person’s ability to hold down a job;
• traumatic experiences with behavioral health impacts;
• overwhelming health care debt;
• involvement in the legal/criminal justice system that limits ability to find employment and/or housing;
• rents that are outpacing wages;
• and a rental system that that doesn’t protect renters adequately, leaving them vulnerable to sudden evictions with limited due process.  

Because of the high cost of living in Montgomery County, people are getting by on very thin margins. One client, a bus driver, missed a couple days of work simply because his normal shift fell on two holidays, so he went unpaid. As a result, he was unable to make rent that month.
 
WHAT CAN BE DONE?
Interfaith Works is among several service providers in Montgomery County that are committed to making the experience of homelessness rare, brief and nonrecurring. A first step can be providing emergency shelter to stabilize an individual’s situation and then working with them to pursue their personal goals and move toward more permanent housing. Montgomery County’s Rapid Rehousing Program, a successful effort in which IW participates, seeks to move people out of the shelter environment as soon as they are able and into stable housing options.   

Another effective strategy is providing prevention programs, so individuals and families never experience homelessness or instability in the first place. IW has two such programs. IW Connections provides our neighbors with emergency financial assistance to help them pay back rent, potentially avoiding eviction, and pay overdue utility bills so they do not suffer in the cold or heat.

The IW Vocational Services Program (VSP) also provides a crucial prevention lifeline, helping people become job-ready as well as seek and land jobs. In addition to providing resume and interviewing assistance, VSP’s Paid Training Program helps people find training and pays the registration costs as well as a stipend for every hour they are in training so they don’t lose income. With this support, the completion rate for training programs shot up to over 90%.  Those placed in jobs last year earned an average hourly wage of $18.53.

And beyond helping put people back to work, VSP is a critical economic engine for our community. Over the past five years, VSP clients – Montgomery County residents – collectively earned annual starting salaries totaling $12.5 million. That is money flowing back into our economy through taxes and buying power.

What can you do? Consider becoming a partner with Interfaith Works. There are many opportunities to be part of the solution by volunteering and supporting this important work through in-kind donations and if you would like to learn more about opportunities at Interfaith Works, please contact Julian Peters at [email protected].

​ 

Maryland's pitch to fired federal workers: Come work for the state Gov. Wes Moore announced resources for people looking for new jobs.
 
By Katie Shepherd and Katie Mettler
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) on Friday announced new resources for federal workers who lose their jobs, including an effort to recruit them to state jobs, amid Trump administration cuts that could leave more than 10,000 Marylanders out of work.
"This is not patriotism," Moore said, referring to the firing of thousands of federal workers in recent weeks. "This is cruelty."
Standing in Annapolis with other state leaders and a federal worker who lost his job with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency on Feb. 18, the governor pitched several paths for federal employees who may be looking for work.
Those civil servants could come work for the state of Maryland, which has about 250 job postings and about 5,200 vacancies overall. They could join a pilot program, soon to be created by the state Transportation Department, that would help translate their public service work experience to state jobs across several state agencies.
Individuals could seek a teaching certification and take on a second career as an educator, Moore said. This would be a boon to a state that needs 12,000 to 15,000 more teachers to meet its ambitious goals to overhaul education.
The state will host virtual and in-person job fairs in Prince George's County and Baltimore, Moore said. A newly launched website points unemployed Marylanders to resources, including more than 130,000 job openings across the state. Moore also ordered the Maryland Department of Budget and Management to streamline the state job-application process so applications could be considered quickly.
The governor's announcement Friday aims to fix two pervasive challenges facing Maryland: a high vacancy rate in the state workforce and a looming unemployment crisis for federal workers caught up in President Donald Trump's mass layoffs.
In October 2022, the year Moore was elected, nearly 6,500 state jobs were vacant, according to an analysis from the state Department of Budget and Management. One of Moore's primary campaign promises was to rebuild the state workforce, which had shrunk under the administration of Gov. Larry Hogan (R). AB of January 2025, the vacancy rate had fallen to 5,222, even as the Moore administration added more jobs to the overall workforce.
In a statement, AFSCME Maryland, the union that represents state employees, said it supported the governor's effort to recruit laid-off federal employees into state jobs. The union called on the state to "fully fund" the state's hiring process, which has been criticized for moving too slow.
Moore's plan mirrors similar efforts in other states, including Virginia, where Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) this week touted a website advertising job openings even as he defended Trump's workforce cuts. Democratic governors in Hawaii, New York and New Mexico are also trying to recruit former federal workers to their states.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) joined Moore on Friday and voiced his support for former federal workers who are waiting to see whether federal courts will intervene to reverse or stop their terminations. Van Hollen said the firings were bound to disrupt services that Americans count on, and often don't even realize the government is doing, until a crisis occurs.
"Until something goes wrong, people don't realize the good work that's being done," Van Hollen said. "But I'll tell you, when that good work stops, things will go wrong."

​Last fall Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed a new law which increased the scope of the pay transparency laws currently in effect in Maryland. A link to an article which I wrote about this new law can be found here www.wagetransparencylaw.com In general, the new law requires that all Maryland employers include in their job postings (internal, external, and through third parties) wage rates; a benefit description; and “any other compensation offered.”

In order to assist employers with their compliance efforts with the new amendments, the Maryland Department of Labor (MDOL) issued a set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) as well as a template of a model compensation disclosure. A link to the FAQs issued by the MDOL can be found here: labor.maryland.gov/labor/wages/esswagerangefaq.shtml

Among other things, the FAQs address what is required to be listed in the wage range for the job position; the benefits which are required to be listed; what “any other compensation offered” means insofar as job postings are concerned; and what employers should do if they are offering a fixed rate of pay (rather than a range). Below are questions and answers included in the FAQs which addressed these issues.
1. What is required to be listed in the wage range for the position?
Answer: The wage range must include the minimum and maximum salary or hourly rate of compensation for the job, promotion, or transfer opportunity that the employer in good faith believes to be accurate at the time posting. This may include reference to any applicable pay scale, any previously determined range of wages for the position, the actual range of pay for current employees holding comparable positions or the amount budgeted by the employer for the positions. The wage range does not include other forms of compensation or benefits such as potential tips, employer provided insurance, paid leave including vacation time or retirement savings.
2. What benefits are required to be listed?
Answer: The law requires that the posting include a general description of benefits and any other compensation elements offered for the position.

Examples include:
• Employer provided insurance such as health or life or other employer-provided insurance,
• Paid or unpaid time off work such as paid sick or vacation days, or leaves of absence,
• Retirement or savings funds such as 401(k) plans or employer-funded pension plans, or
• Other forms of compensation such as the value of employer-provided meals or lodging.
3. What does “any other compensation offered” mean and is it required to be included in the posting?
Answer: In addition to the wage range and benefits, the law requires that the job posting include “any other compensation offered.” This requirement is intended to broadly cover “any” other earnings or monetary compensation that an employee may receive as payment in return for work performed, including, by way of example only:
• Overtime,
• Compensatory time,
• Differentials,
• Premium pay,
• Tips,
• Commissions,
• Bonuses,
• Stock or stock options, and
• Any portion of service charges.
​
If you have a question about whether something is considered “any other compensation,” please contact the Division of Labor and Industry Wage and Labor Standards Enforcement Unit at [email protected] or call 410-767-2357 (410-767-2370 for Spanish).
4. What if the employer does not plan to offer a range but a fixed rate?
Answer: If the employer is offering a single fixed rate, the posting must include the fixed rate. For example, an employer could list the pay as $30 an hour. However, an employer would not be permitted to list $30+ an hour.
In order to assist employers further to provide greater clarity, the MDOL created a template that employers may, but are not required, to utilize. The use of the template is completely voluntary. However, use of a properly completed template, according to the MDOL, will satisfy the employer’s legal obligation to provide the required disclosures. A link to the template can be found here www.esscompensationdisclosureform.com

NEXT STEPS
The next steps which employers should consider taking in light of the new law include the following:
A. Train managers on the new law, and specifically the requirements regarding wage ranges, and the restrictions about asking about wage history;
B. Review all internal and external job postings and advertisements to ensure that they contain the required wage range and benefit information;
C. Review hiring processes, and specifically interview procedures, to ensure that the prohibitions about wage history are followed in job posts and job advertisements;
D. Centralize decisions made with respect to the creation of salary range requirements;
E. Ensure that there is a “good faith” basis for the wage ranges established;
F. Employers who are subject to pay transparency laws in more than one jurisdiction should ensure that their policies and procedures satisfy all applicable laws; and
G. Explore whether there is insurance for violations of the new law.

Marc R. Engel is a shareholder at Lerch, Early & Brewer, Chartered where he is a member of the firm’s Employment and Labor Group and Litigation Group. He advises employers of all types of employment issues, performs human resource audits, and conducts training on a variety of employment issues, including strategies for improving hiring, performance management, retention and avoiding discrimination and harassment claims. He also litigates and mediates employment and business disputes and counsels clients on litigation avoidance strategies. For more information about human resource audits or the employment practice, please contact Mr. Engel at (301) 657-0184 or by email at [email protected]. For more information about the firm, please visit our website at www.lerchearly.com. This article is not intended to provide legal advice, including legal advice as to any specific matter.

Guest Blog by Sean Makulowich, IdeaFire

December isn’t just about ugly sweaters, stuffing your face with candy canes, or rewatching Elf for the 147th time – it’s also National Business Plan Month! As the holiday season reminds us to be merry and bright, there’s no better time to get your entrepreneurial ducks in a row before the new year than by writing or revising your business plan. If writing one feels about as exciting as going to the dentist for a cavity, you’re not alone. Fear not – IdeaFire and Generative AI are here to serve as your trusty sidekicks and help you transform your vision into a well-structured plan that can impress investors, business partners, and even your most skeptical relatives.
​
A business plan is not just another business document –  it’s your playbook, pitch deck, and financial compass all rolled into one. It is imperative that your business plan is well-written, highlights your business in all the right ways, and includes some critical information so that anyone reading it takes you and your business seriously. Before we dive it, I’d be remiss if I didn’t strongly suggest that you have an experienced attorney review your business plan once it’s complete to make sure that you have all the required language included and presented properly.

Ok, now for the fun part. Below, I’ll break down the essential elements of a business plan, explain how Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, etc. can simplify each section with specific prompts, and I’ll even give you a few tips to sprinkle some Shark Tank magic into your masterpiece. Lastly, wherever you see brackets “[ ]” in a prompt below, this is where you need to add specific information about your business. Are you ready? Let’s go!
 
The Essential Elements of a Business Plan (with AI Prompts for Each Section)

1. Executive Summary
   The elevator pitch for your business.
   • What’s Included: A concise overview of your business idea, mission, vision, unique selling proposition (USP), and key goals.
   • AI Prompt:
     “I am developing a business plan for [my company/the company I plan to launch]. For context reference, my company website is [website URL]. Write an executive summary for a [specific business type] targeting [audience]. Emphasize the unique selling proposition, growth objectives, target market, and competitive advantage while maintaining a professional and engaging tone. Summarize key financial metrics and milestones. If any information is missing or could be expanded, please highlight those areas, and suggest what additional details I can provide to make the executive summary more impactful and comprehensive.”
   • Pro Tip: Think of this as your LinkedIn bio, but with fewer buzzwords and more substance. Investors need to be hooked here, so make it memorable and compelling.
2. Company Description
   Who you are and why you exist.
   • What’s Included: Your company’s name, structure, history, mission, and vision. Highlight the problem you solve and how you’re uniquely positioned to solve it.
   • AI Prompt:
     “I am working on the company overview section of my business plan and need help crafting a detailed description. Here is some information on the company:
     • Legal structure: [LLC, corporation, etc.]
     • Product/service: [brief description]
     • Unique value proposition for customers: [brief description]
     • Company’s location: [brick-and-mortar address, online, or both]
     • Key stakeholders: [list key personnel]
     • How the business will operate: [brief description]
     • Can you help me draft a company overview using this information? If any important details are missing, please create a bulleted list and suggest how I can make the description more comprehensive.”
   • Pro Tip: Add a touch of humanity. Share the why behind your business and reinforce your passion in building this business – it resonates with your audience more than you think.
3. Management Team
   Your dream team in focus.
   • What’s Included: Your leadership team and key roles. Include short bios for top leaders and why they’re uniquely suited for their roles.
   • AI Prompt:
     “I am working on the management team section of my business plan. Highlight key team members such as [list key personnel], their expertise [include short bios], and their roles in achieving the business’s mission and goals. Include why this team is well-equipped to succeed in the market.”
   • Pro Tip: Think Ocean’s Eleven – show how each team member has a special skill that brings the whole operation together.
4. Products or Services
   What you offer and why it matters.
   • What’s Included: A detailed description of your products/services, benefits, pricing, and how they meet market needs.
   • AI Prompt:
     “I am working on the Products and Services section of my business plan and need help crafting a product/service description for [specific offerings]. Focus on the unique features, benefits to the customer, and how it solves a specific problem. Include competitive advantages and a pricing strategy.”
   • Pro Tip: Use vivid language to describe your offerings. You’re not just selling coffee; you’re offering “handcrafted, ethically sourced, flavor-packed brews that kickstart mornings with purpose.”
5. Market Analysis
   Prove you know your market top to bottom.
   • What’s Included: Detailed insights into your target market, customer demographics, industry trends, and potential opportunities for growth.
   • AI Prompt:
     “I am working on the market analysis section of my business plan and need help identifying and describing my target market. Here are the key details about my business:
     • Product or service description:
     • Unique value or benefit it provides to customers:
     • Existing research or insights about the market or customer demographics:
     • Geographic location or regions I plan to serve:
     • Pricing strategy and product positioning:
     • Using this information, can you help me describe the ideal customer profile (ICP) and target market segments for my business? Please also suggest any additional information that would help make the target market analysis more precise.”
   • Pro Tip: Use AI to identify trends you haven’t considered – like untapped customer segments or emerging competitors.
6. Competitive Analysis
   How you stack up against your competition.
   • What’s Included: Your list of competitors—direct, indirect, and aspirational—and summarizes who they are, what they offer, and who they serve.
   • AI Prompt:
     I'm working on the competitive analysis section of my business plan and need help identifying and analyzing competitors. My business offers [briefly describe your business]. My customers are [brief description, including geographic location, if relevant]. I’d like you to help me identify the following:
     • Direct competitors (businesses offering similar products/services) and provide a brief summary of their strengths and weaknesses.
     • Indirect competitors (businesses offering alternatives to my product/service) and outline their strengths and weaknesses.
     • Aspirational competitors (companies I’m not competing with now but aspire to be like) and explain what makes them successful.
     • Finally, can you help identify any market opportunities based on this competitive analysis?
   • Pro Tip: This section of your business plan should inform readers about the competitive landscape and highlight opportunities in the market.
7. Marketing and Sales Strategy
   How you’ll get customers and keep them.
   • What’s Included: Marketing channels, customer acquisition tactics, and retention strategies. Don’t forget pricing and distribution plans.
   • AI Prompt:
     “I am working on the marketing and sales strategy section of my business plan. I need help creating a detailed marketing and sales strategy for a [business type] targeting [specific audience]. Include innovative marketing campaigns, customer acquisition strategies, retention methods, pricing models, and distribution channels.”
   • Pro Tip: Don’t just follow trends – leverage AI to uncover marketing ideas and growth hacking tactics that fit your brand and audience. TikTok is not for everyone, but a clever YouTube, or email campaign usually works well for most business types.
8. Financial Projections
   Show me the money.
   • What’s Included: Revenue forecasts, cost estimates, profit margins, and funding requests. Show how you’ll use funding to grow.
   • AI Prompt:
     “Generate a detailed three-year financial projection for a [specific business type]. Include revenue streams, operating expenses, gross profit margins, and funding requirements. Highlight how these projections align with industry standards and growth targets.”
   • Pro Tip: Even if your math isn’t your forte, AI can help turn rough guesses into polished projections. Just make sure they’re grounded in reality.
9. SWOT Analysis
   Your business at a glance.
   • What’s Included: A clear breakdown of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
   • AI Prompt:
     “Generate a SWOT analysis for [business type]. Focus on internal strengths and weaknesses, external opportunities, and threats, and provide recommendations for addressing weaknesses and leveraging opportunities.”
   • Pro Tip: Treat this like your reality check. Use it to plan ahead for challenges and double down on strengths.
10. Appendices
    Supporting documents and extras.
    • What’s Included: Charts, graphs, legal docs, resumes, or any other supporting material.
    • AI Prompt:
      “Create a list of suggested appendices for a [specific business type] business plan. Include supporting documentation such as charts, resumes, legal agreements, or detailed product specs.”
    • Pro Tip: Keep it neat. Appendices are for reference, not clutter.

 
Tips for Making the Most of Generative AI

• Don't just copy & paste: Use AI-generated content as a starting point to craft your business plan outline – not as the final draft. Always remember to review, revise, and customize anything that a Large Language Model (LLM) generates for you so that it uses your ‘voice,’ tone, brand personality, expertise, and insights to make it uniquely your own.
• Give specific prompts: The more details you provide, the better the AI can tailor its output, and the less time you’ll have to spend iterating with the robots to get it just right. Include specific details about your business, audience, and goals.

• Review for accuracy: Double-check facts, especially numbers and industry trends. AI is brilliant, but far from perfect and still prone to hallucination. Reminder: have an experienced attorney review your business plan.

 
When in Doubt, Call In the Experts – IdeaFire Is Here to Help!
Still feeling stuck? That's where IdeaFire comes in. At IdeaFire, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs, startups, SMBs, and global enterprise organizations leverage the power of Generative AI and the latest digital marketing tactics to grow their businesses. From helping clients craft compelling business plans and investor pitch decks, to building tailored marketing and advertising strategies that fuel growth and success, IdeaFire’s got your back!
Visit us at IdeaFire.com to learn more about how IdeaFire can help ignite your brand and leverage the latest generative AI tools to grow your business, boost productivity, and enhance operational efficiency.

This National Business Plan Month, remember: a great business plan is the first step to great success. With AI as your co-pilot and IdeaFire as your guide, you'll be properly equipped for rapid growth.

So, grab your coffee, tea, or a cocktail (no judgment), fire up that laptop, and let's make some magic happen! After all, failing to plan is planning to fail – and you're not about to let that happen… are you?

​Help protect yourself and your employees from serious diseases including flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia

Like eating healthy and exercising regularly, getting vaccinated is an important part of staying healthy and preventing serious complications from preventable diseases. This is especially true during the fall and winter when respiratory diseases become more common as people spend time indoors for school, work, and holiday gatherings. In the US, illnesses like influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumonia affect many people each year and also impact employers and businesses. Flu alone costs an estimated $11.2 billion in direct and indirect costs in the US annually.

Despite how serious these diseases can be, a recent survey by the Bethesda-based National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), found that less than 1 in 5 US adults expressed concern about themselves or someone in their family getting a respiratory infection this fall and winter. For the current season, nearly half (45%) indicated that they do not plan to or are unsure if they will get vaccinated against flu, and the majority (61%) do not plan to or are unsure if they will get an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

This is a concerning trend, since getting vaccinated can help you stay healthy, avoid missing work or school, and help prevent you from spreading a potentially serious disease to friends, family, or co-workers who may be at greater risk. Those at higher risk include pregnant women, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease. Vaccines can help make symptoms milder, reduce the amount of sick time, and help prevent the need for medical care or hospitalization.

NFID has developed a checklist to help make sure that you and your employees are up to date on recommended respiratory vaccines:

Flu (Everyone age 6 months and older)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every year. Flu is not just a common cold. While the numbers vary, each year in the US, millions of people get sick, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized, and tens of thousands die from flu-related complications.

COVID-19 (Everyone age 6 months and older)
CDC recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine this season to help protect against new variants that are circulating. COVID-19 and flu vaccines can be given at the same time. Like flu vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines are safe and strongly recommended for pregnant women, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. If you recently had COVID-19, you can delay getting an updated vaccine by about 3 months, but you should get vaccinated then.

RSV (Older adults, pregnant women/infants)
Although symptoms may be mild, RSV is the most common cause of pneumonia in young children and can cause hospitalization and death in older adults as well. RSV vaccination is currently recommended as a one-time dose for all adults age 75 years and older, adults age 60-74 years who have certain risk factors, and pregnant women to help protect their infants. For infants born to mothers who did not get an RSV vaccine while pregnant, a monoclonal antibody is recommended.

Pneumococcal disease (Young children, older adults, those with certain medical conditions)
​Pneumococcal vaccines (sometimes called pneumonia vaccines) are recommended for all children younger than age 5 years, adults age 50 years and older, and people with certain chronic health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease (asthma or COPD), kidney or liver disease, diabetes, sickle cell disease, or other conditions and treatments that weaken the immune system

Vaccines can help prevent the spread of disease and keep symptoms milder for those who do get sick. Employers play a key role in protecting their workforce and the community by encouraging vaccination as part of a healthy workplace culture.
Learn more at www.nfid.org.


Founded in 1973, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and engaging the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan.

Guest Blog by Rayetta Michael, Help in the Home

We love to see others grow in every area of their lives, and we can’t wait to see you succeed too.  Lessons are best learned when shared, so we are going to reveal our top 15 tips that got us to where we are today. It’s time to realize your value!

1. Servant leadership is the only way.
Our organizational chart places our clients at the top, staff below clients, leadership below staff and co-founders at the bottom. We don’t see how we could do what we do with excellence any other way.
2. Hire people who are smarter than you.
We are constantly patting ourselves on the back for hiring highly-skilled individuals. We learn something everyday from the amazing people who work at Help in the Home.
3. Foster collaboration instead of competition.
The metro DC area can be a breeding ground for competition. We have found that we thrive better on collaboration both internally and externally. 
4. Hire people with heart.
Working with individuals and families struggling with complex mental illness is really hard work. You have to love it to be good at it.
5. Running a business is a marathon, not a sprint.
Pacing yourself and remaining flexible in how you approach each new season of business is a lesson that takes time to learn but is key to avoiding burn out !
6. Have a growth mindset.
In order to maintain standards of excellence, you have to be willing to change and learn. That never stops and we instill this mindset with every person that joins our team. 
7. Start with gratitude.
We start our days focused on gratitude. We’ve found it’s the best way to stay grounded throughout the entire day and especially important on the hard days.
 8. Self-care is essential.
You can’t fill anyone else’s cup unless you’ve filled your own first. Take good care of yourself and it will reflect in how you show up for your clients and staff.
9. Vulnerability is strength.
It is common in our society for vulnerability to be viewed as weakness. However, we’ve found that incredible strength and growth comes from exposing and sharing our vulnerabilities with others. 
10. Trust, but verify.
It’s important to hire people that you trust, while maintaining a system of checks and balances that holds everyone accountable. This helps with ensuring the standard of excellence we strive for.
11. Don’t manage, lead.
When you hire the right people, they don’t need you to micro-manage their time. Lead by giving people the tools and support they need to be successful.
12. Diversity, equality and inclusion improves everything.
Full stop.
13. Presence is a best practice.
Be present.  Truly showing up for yourself, with your clients and staff is where the magic happens.  It takes practice!
14. Strive for excellence, not perfection.
Perfection is unattainable. Know that there are opportunities lying within mistakes. Embrace the struggle and see it as a gift.  
15. Infuse joy.
This is at the very core of Help in the Home’s mission. Take every opportunity you can to celebrate victories, no matter how small they may seem. Even in the most difficult times.

We wouldn’t be where we are today if we had worried about every little thing that was thrown our way. This is your reminder to not sweat the small stuff! You will find joy when you surround yourself with growth-minded people who are willing to have your back while stretching you to be your best. We hope you have gleaned some of the wisdom we have acquired throughout this journey to make your own path a little smoother.
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About Help in the Home: Help in the Home strives to be known for their passionate approach and guiding motivation to add value to the communities we’re in. They believe in the importance of creating an inclusive community that provides housing and therapeutic support for people with severe mental illness– one where warmth, care, and support are present – is priceless. Co-founders Stacy or Rayetta would love to connect with you - e-mail [email protected] to learn more about their business model and how you can work together.

Guest Blog by Lloyd Malech

Divorce, whether amicable or bitter, is no easy transition for anyone. It involves significant changes and upheaval to routines, expectations, and living arrangements. Business owners' source of income is more than a paycheck – it is an important asset with many moving parts that the divorce process may directly impact. When a business owner contemplates divorce, the process can become particularly complex. Here are five critical considerations to bear in mind:

1. Preserve Key Documents
A business owner is responsible for preserving key documents in the ordinary course of business. However, it is particularly urgent to maintain clear, thorough, and up-to-date records of all business operations, financials, contracts, and ownership documents in the context of a potential divorce. These documents may play a crucial role in determining business value and ownership rights during divorce proceedings. Some key documents to include are:

• Tax Returns
• Annual filings with federal, state, and local governments
• Organizational documents for corporations, LLCs, and other business entities

2. Prove Separate Property
If the business was started before the marriage or inherited, it may be classified as separate property, which means the other spouse is not interested in the business. Clear documentation is crucial to prove that the business began as separate property and was not commingled with marital assets, such as shared bank accounts or using marital funds to grow the business. Creating and maintaining a paper trail to demonstrate that the business has always been kept separate from the marital property will prevent successful claims by the other spouse.

3. Notify Business Partners
Divorce can significantly impact business operations, especially if the spouse has a stake in the business or if the divorce could lead to asset division that affects the company’s liquidity. It is not just good practice, but essential to notify business partners (if any) and discuss how the business will be handled. This open communication is crucial to ensure continuity and protect the company’s stability. Many business entities place a fiduciary duty on co-owners to disclose events that might cause major impact on the business operations.

4. Valuing the Business for Marital Estate
If a business is not separate property, the other spouse has a right to include the value of the business in the marital estate for purposes of fair division. An accurate and fair business valuation can be conducted by business valuation experts who can assess the business’s worth, considering factors like revenue, assets, liabilities, and market conditions. The valuation is often a point of contention in divorce, and this process can help determine if the business will be sold, divided, or retained by one spouse.

5. Planning for Post-Divorce Business Structure
The divorce trial or settlement may impact the business structure. If the business is shared, partners may need to renegotiate roles, buy out the other spouse, or prepare for changes in ownership and control. Planning ahead for this transition ensures the business can continue functioning smoothly.
Depending on a business's type, size, and structure, when an owner contemplates divorce, it can have significant consequences. Confer with an attorney with experience in family law and an understanding of property interests to ensure that the business is as protected as possible to maintain value and minimize disruption.
 
With over 25 years of experience, we are committed to providing excellent service to our clients. Our accolades include the 2024 Family Law American Association of Attorney Advocates recognition, being a finalist in the 2024 Best of Bethesda Readers’ Pick for Best Family Law Practitioner, and winning the same award in 2022. We’ve also been honored with the Lawyers of Distinction Award for Excellence in Divorce and Family Law for the past five consecutive years. At Malech Law, we approach every case with respect, empathy, and a dedication to excellence. Contact us today for professional legal assistance.
Visit Malechlaw.com or call (202) 441-2107.
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Guest Blog by Julie Schumacher, sasse agency

In today’s digital landscape, a strong online presence is more important than ever. As a proud member of the Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce, it’s likely you’re aware of the importance of networking.  Have you considered the impact that a well-crafted blog can have on your business?

Let's Get Going…  

Blogging is “good for business” – it is an important part of a successful marketing strategy. Here are some reasons:

• Builds Brand Awareness: Regular blog posts help to showcase your brand and increase visibility with your target audience.
• Establishes Authority & Thought Leadership: Consistently publishing high-quality, informative content positions your company as an expert in the industry and builds trust.
• Improves Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Blogging allows you to incorporate relevant keywords that improve your search engine rankings and drives more organic traffic to your site.
• Lead Generation: Through content marketing, a blog addresses customer needs and helps guide them through the buyer's journey which results in increased conversions.

An added value for membership with TGBCOC is to guest blog…YAY!

Let's Get Blogging

A blog does not have to be stressful. Here are a few steps to help you begin:

1. Define The Essentials: What is the goal for the blog? Hint: to engage your target audience. Who is your client and what do they care about? What are keywords associated with your industry? What is important to your business community? Answering these questions may help you determine what to say and how to say it.
2. Brainstorm Topics: Come up with fresh ideas to write about on a routine basis. Think about your client’s pain points, useful tips about your industry, and translating your technical expertise into language your clients can understand. Developing or using an editorial calendar can help organize a list of topics that are both relevant and timely.
3. Create A Plan: It is important to have quality content with consistent posts. Decide if you are publishing weekly, monthly or quarterly and integrate this into your marketing plan. Guest bloggers can be helpful from time to time J
4. Get Writing: For each post, choose relevant keywords to guide your blog's content. Find your own tone, subject matter, and style for your posts. Be creative, include a catchy title, section headers, quotes, and references to boost SEO. Use media, incorporate images, graphics, and videos to make the post engaging. It’s important to remember that every post should have a strategic and clear, Call to Action (CTA).
5. Promote: Now it's time to share your blog across your website, social media platforms, and email newsletters.

Let's Get Social

Have fun getting social with your blog. Each channel has its own personality, for example, LinkedIn is the boardroom discussion, Facebook is the water cooler convo and X is the newsroom… understand the best channel to reach your audience.

Let's Get Optimized

To ensure your blog is well-optimized, it's important to focus on both technical SEO and content strategy. On the technical side, you’ll need to implement key elements like title tags, meta descriptions, H1 headers, and Alt tags for images. Don’t forget to resubmit XML sitemap for indexing.

For your content strategy, start with a primary keyword phrase and use it at least twice throughout the article. Be sure to include internal links to other relevant content on your site and add an image with alt text that includes your keyword.

Let’s Get Resources

There are numerous tools available to ensure your content is well-written including accurate spelling, proper grammar, and punctuation.   

AI can support you as a tool to explore trends and topics, research keywords, create outlines and more. Remember, when generating content, AI can lack creativity, emotion, uniqueness, and accuracy --- fact check those stats!

Let's Get Connected!
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Learn more about being a guest blogger for The Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce.
To discuss a blog or your marketing strategy, contact Julie Schumacher, founder of sasse agency