Vietnam will host its first-ever F1 Grand Prix in Hanoi in April, 2020. Preparations have been in full swing since March 2019 for a thrilling street race, west of Vietnam’s capital, around a 5.565km track located near My Dinh National Stadium.
The Vietnam Motorsports Association (VMA) is recruiting 1,000 volunteers, who will be directly in charge of 20 different tasks in the race such as firefighting, medical assistance, car weighing, track cleaning and emergency response for the Formula One Vietnam Grand Prix in Hanoi. Vietnam News Agency reports.
According to the VMA, all Vietnamese citizens and foreign people aged 18 and above, who are strong enough to take part in activities of the event, can apply to become volunteers.
Those chosen will have to pledge to obey disciplines and safety rules set by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) in order to ensure safety for all racers and minimize accidents on the racetrack.
After being selected, volunteers will take part into two training courses in the country in November this year and March, 2020 under the guidance of leading experts in the world from the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS).
All volunteers will be provided with uniforms, necessities, equipment and cards to enter in areas of the race.
They will have a chance to meet and exchange with other volunteers from all over the world working for F1 Vietnam.
After finishing the event, volunteers will be granted a certificate to recognise their contribution.
Steel exports generated US$1.93 billion in the first seven months of 2019, with the US remaining the largest importer of Vietnamese steel products. NhanDan Online reports.
The figure is up 14.7% compared with the same period of 2018, according to the General Department of Customs.
Steel exports in July alone rose 4.7% after three consecutive months of declines, the agency added.
Steel exports to the world’s largest economy reached US$378.31 million, accounting for nearly one fifth of Vietnam’s total steel exports, followed by shipments to Japan, India, Thailand and the Republic of Korea.
In addition to the US and Asian countries, Vietnam’s steel exports to Europe also posted strong growth in the first seven months of 2019, with exports to Sweden shooting up by 206.85%.
Exports to Norway and the United Kingdom also saw substantial gains.
In the meantime, Vietnam’s steel exports to Myanmar recorded the largest decrease, plummeting 49.53% from the same period last year to US$33.39 million.
A country of wondrous coastlines, luscious green jungles, fresh tropical fruit, friendly local people, and enthralling history, Vietnam should definitely be on your bucket list. There’s something for every type of traveler in this popular Asian country, whether your idea of a perfect vacation involves kayaking in the ocean, browsing through markets loaded with handmade goods, or visiting the crumbling ruins of ancient temples. The Travel reports.
It’s difficult to narrow down the reasons why you should visit Vietnam at least once in your life, but we’ve managed to come up with the top 10. Check them out below!
10. It’s pretty affordable
Photo by The Travel
Unlike other amazing destinations that you’ll probably spend months paying off, Vietnam is relatively affordable. According to Trip Savvy, Vietnam is a popular destination among backpackers for this very reason: it’s quite affordable. You’ll get to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world without sending yourself broke!
There are plenty of ways to save money while traveling through Vietnam. This might include traveling by budget airline or by using public transport such as buses or trains to get around the country. You’ll also find lots of choices for budget accommodation in Vietnam.
9. It’s peaceful and relaxing
Photo by The Travel
Vietnam is an ideal location to travel to if you’re in need of a break from your busy life. If stress has taken over and you find yourself tightly wound up, a trip to Vietnam could be just what you need because it’s full of peaceful and relaxing destinations where you can just chill out.
These range from stunning natural landscapes that will allow you to reconnect with the planet to ancient temples encouraging a sense of serenity. While some places in Vietnam are super busy, it definitely has its quiet, reflective locations too.
8. To understand the history from a local perspective
Photo by The Travel
Many people travel to Vietnam purely to explore the local history. Vietnam has been involved in key world history events, the most significant of which for many tourists is the Vietnam War. Travel to the country today and you’ll see relics from this crucial point in history that are still standing today.
While you don’t need to visit Vietnam to learn more about the Vietnam War, doing so will open you up to a completely different perspective. You’ll get an insider look at old war monuments and hear local stories about what life was like during this time.
7. To immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture
Photo by The Travel
Vietnamese culture is something that you won’t want to leave behind when it’s time to go home. In between visiting major landmarks and popular attractions, you’ll get the chance to spend time with friendly locals who will share with you their way of life.
Leaving what you know behind and experiencing the world from the perspective of a Vietnamese farmer, for example, will open up your eyes. Not only will you learn a lot about Vietnamese culture, but in doing so you’ll learn a lot about yourself.
6. The Stunning Natural Landscape
Photo by The Travel
The landscape in Vietnam is spectacular. On any trek through the country, you’ll have to stop and ask yourself if the surroundings are actually real. The best thing about it is that there are so many different kinds of settings to see within the borders of the same country.
Vietnam boasts some beautiful national parks and some of the world’s largest natural caves, according to Tripzilla. There is ample chance to see luscious jungle and forests, flowing rivers and waterfalls, and some of the most stunning coastlines on the planet.
5. The outdoor activities on offer
Photo by The Travel
Not only is the Vietnamese landscape outstanding, but it serves as the perfect setting to engage in a few thrilling outdoor activities. Watersports are on the top of many bucket lists since the clear blue waters off the Vietnamese coast are hard to resist.
If you want to stick to land activities only, there’s plenty to choose from. A large number of travelers to Vietnam rent motorbikes and make their way at their own pace across the country. While this doesn’t sound too daunting, the windy Vietnamese roads will definitely throw you out of your comfort zone.
4. The diverse shopping options
Photo by The Travel
If shopping is more your cup of tea than biking across the country or kayaking beneath gushing waterfalls, then Vietnam is still an ideal destination for you. As The Culture Trip points out, the country specializes in unique fashion and handicrafts that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.
Browse through the markets and you’ll find traditional clothing, scarves, jewelry, accessories, and just about anything you could want. In the bigger cities, you can get custom-made clothes in as little as 24 hours, and for a fraction of the cost you would pay at home.
3. To eat authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Photo by The Travel
Foodies rejoice in Vietnam. The hearty and addictive cuisine has made waves all over the world, but there’s still nothing quite like eating authentic Vietnamese in Vietnam. Though you’ll find more expensive restaurants in the bigger cities, most travelers rave about the street foods on offer at stalls lining the busy roads.
For the best pho of your life and fresh papaya salad that helps you to escape from the heat, visit Vietnam. The country is also home to some of the freshest seafood on the planet—you won’t be able to stop at just one plate.
2. Taste fresh tropical fruits
Photo by The Travel
The tropical fruit available in Vietnam really deserves its own mention. Sweet, fresh fruit is like a gift from the gods at the best of times, but when the weather is hot and humid, and you’ve been sightseeing all day, there’s nothing better than filling up on some delicious local produce.
You’ll find fruits that you know from home, like pineapple, mango, watermelon, and banana, but they’ll be exceptionally fresh (and give you unrealistic standards of fruit forever). And there will also be the chance to try totally new tropical fruits.
1. Sample rice or corn wine
Photo by The Travel
To wash all that tropical fruit down, you’ll need a delicious drink. Chasing the Unexpected travel blog believes that the rice wine, or corn wine as it’s sometimes called, is so amazing that it’s one of the reasons you should go to Vietnam in the first place.
Though the drink has slightly different ingredients depending on where in Vietnam you are, it’s not actually a wine. More like liquor and similar in taste to vodka, the drink is sometimes referred to as “happy water”. You can’t leave Vietnam without sampling some!
Economists say the move may hurt investor sentiment and hamper the Southeast Asian country’s privatization drive.
According to a report on Reuters, the Ministry of Transport has sent a proposal to Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc to buy shares in the company, which operates the country’s civilian airports, from private investors, Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Ngoc Dong said late on Wednesday.
The move is aimed at “ensuring the highest security and defense conditions”, Dong said without elaborating further in a statement posted on the government website.
The proposal comes as Vietnam has been seeking to speed up its privatization of state firms in recent years to improve their performance and to fill its coffers.
The government said last month it would sell stakes in 93 state-owned enterprises, including the country’s largest bank by assets – Agribank, by the end of 2020.
The government sold tiny stakes in Airports Corporation of Vietnam to private investors in 2016 as part of that privatization process.
The government currently owns 95.4% of the company while several foreign investment funds, such as Dragon Capital, Korea Investment Management and RBC Global Asset Management, hold the remainder, according to Refinitiv Eikon data.
The company has a market capitalization of 173.74 trillion dong ($7.49 billion) as of Thursday, potentially valuing the stakes of private investors at $344.54 million.
“We would work out plans to raise funds for purchasing the stake if the proposal is approved,” Dong said.
Dong and the Airports Corporation of Vietnam didn’t immediately reply to Reuters’ emails seeking comment.
Hanoi-based economist Pham Chi Lan, a former government economic adviser, said the move would have an adverse impact on investor sentiment.
“It would cause concerns among foreign and domestic investors, who have already invested and have plans to invest in Vietnam,” Lan told Reuters on phone.
“Instead, the government should sell bigger stakes in state-owned enterprises to private investors to make the firms more competitive and efficient.” ($1 = 23,198 dong)
(Reporting by Khanh Vu; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu)
Once a sleepy town famous for its rice terraces and ethnic tribal cultures, Sapa — a five-hour drive from Hanoi — has grown in recent years to become one of the hottest tourist destinations in Vietnam. CNN reports.
Mountainous Sapa has become one of Vietnam’s hottest tourist destinations. With a population of less than 140,000, the area welcomed more than 1.6 million visitors in the first half of 2019 — accounting for 57% of tourists visiting the entire Lao Cai province.
Along with this travel growth, naturally, has been an influx of new hotels.
But the latest and arguably the first five-star international property is taking things to a new level. The glamorous Hotel de la Coupole was designed by Bill Bensley — the mastermind behind some of Asia’s most stunning hotels, like Rosewood Luang Prabang and Cambodia’s Shinta Mani Wild — and resembles a luxurious European palace from the early 20th century.
A throwback to the early 1900s
“The DNA of the hotel is the nostalgia of the French Indochine era of the early 1900s,” says Jean-Pierre Joncas, Hotel de la Coupole’s general manager. “French haute couture blended with vibrant hill tribe ethnic colors.”
The interior of the 249-key hotel reflects this DNA.
The façade and “classic” rooms adopt shades of mustard — a typical color used in the French Indochine era, while other rooms feature bright orange and ruby red colors, inspired by Sapa’s Hmong hill tribe.
Embroideries and patterns on some of the fabrics also pay tribute to Hmong culture. The chandelier in the lobby is inspired by a traditional Hmong hat.
Antique objects — including original storefronts from 1900s Paris — are part of the hotel’s elaborate interior.
(Photos by CNN travel)
“With the development of tourism, as an operator, we really want to educate our guests so that they respect the area and they respect the local cultures that they may be meeting for the first time,” says Joncas.
“And on the other side, we do want to work with the locals and the local community… about how to preserve that culture and preserve their uniqueness.”
Some of the biggest highlights include an indoor spa and swimming pool, La Grand Bassin, that looks like a scene from a Wes Anderson movie, a 435-square-meter ballroom and a kids’ club for the young ones.
In terms of dining, the hotel is home to a French restaurant with a local twist, a rooftop bar overlooking the mountains of Sapa and a French patisserie.
Hotel de la Coupole is a part of Accor Hotel Group’s boutique MGallery Hotel series, which focuses on history, literature and culture.
Hotel de la Coupole: 1 Hoang Lien Street Sapa District Lao Cai Province, Sapa.
Vietnam is currently making efforts to modernize shipbuilding and the shipping industry to increase quality with reasonable cost, save energy and minimize pollution. Vietnamnews reports.
The statement was made by Le Tuan Anh, Director of the Transport Ministry’s International Cooperation Department at a seminar on the industry jointly held by the Association of Asian Classification Societies (ACS) and Register Vietnam in the northern province of Quang Ninh last week.
“Vietnam wanted to improve the industry’s quality and enhance competitiveness to actively integrate in the region and the world,” Anh said.
At the seminar experts from ACS, Active Shipbuilding Experts’ Federation, Asian Ship owners’ Association and research institutes and businesses, shared experience on building and implementing regulations on safety and environment protection for vessels, offshore petroleum works, and accessing to advanced shipbuilding and shipping technologies in the world.
According to head of the ACS’s Technology Management Team Phạm Hải Bằng, the ACS will organise the seminar annually, sharing the global development trend of environmental issues, safety and ACS activities in this area.
“We will announce reports and statistics of the ACS ship fleets’ shortcomings, helping ship-owners minimize shortcomings in the operation,” Bằng said.
The ACS was officially established on February 1, 2010, with seven members including Indonesia Register (BKI), China Register (CCS), Japan Register (NK), Indian Register (IRS), Korean Register (KR), Malaysia Register (SCM) and Vietnam Register (VR).
Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam has set the deadline for all schools and hospitals in urban areas go cashless in the next three months. Vietnam+ reports.
The Government Office has released a document in which Dam ordered the Ministry of Education and Training, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labour-Invalids and Social Affairs along with the municipal People’s Committees of 52 provinces and cities to step up efforts to digitise financial transactions in the education and health sectors.
They were told to offer guidance to schools of all levels and hospitals in urban areas to fully collaborate with banks and payment intermediary providers by December.
Schools and hospitals must publicise their bank accounts and install card readers, scanners for QR (Quick Response) codes and mobile applications to make payments more convenient. All preparations must be finished by this December.
The Deputy PM also asked banks and payment providers to consider a discount of service fees to cashless transactions in health, education and public service.
Vietnam was vigorously pushing for non-cash payment, making it a priority to improve the business environment and raise national competitiveness.
Reports by the Ministry of Planning and Investment show that total transactions via the banks’ e-payment system grew 23 percent in number and over 17 percent in value in the first five months of 2019 over the same period last year.
Mobile payment witnessed an impressive year-on-year surge of 97 percent and 232 percent in number and value in the reviewed period.
Vietnam’s head coach Park Hang-seo thinks the pressure to win is greater on Thailand and will make Thursday’s clash a tough one. VnExpress International reports.
“As a coach, I have certain pressures before each game, especially this World Cup qualification game with Thailand. But I have got used to this because I have been in many tournaments before,” Park said at a pre-match conference in Thammasat Stadium, Thailand, Wednesday.
He said he felt that the pressure to win will make things difficult for Thailand despite their preparations.
“I know Thailand have prepared carefully for this game. They have a new coach, but I think that this will be a challenging match for them, since they must win this game.”
Park said his players have had a great preparation and they will continue showing their spirit.
At the last encounter between the two teams, Vietnam beat Thailand 1-0 at the King’s Cup 2019 in June. Park said that although it was a small game, it had boosted the players’ confidence.
“In the past, Vietnam used to get bad results against Thailand. So that game can be considered as a transition. From now, the players will be more confident, not just for this game but also future clashes with Thailand,” Park said.
Thailand coach Akira Nishino broke his previous silence on Vietnam, saying: “Vietnam is a strong opponent. I know that they have made great improvements over the last few years and Thailand are facing some pressure before the game. But we will try to turn that pressure into motivation to play well. We are ready,” Nishino said.
Thailand coach Akira Nishino addresses the pre-match conference in Thailand, September 4, 2019. Photo by Duc Dong.
Vietnamese captain Que Ngoc Hai also expressed confidence ahead of the match.
“We’ve had 10 days to prepare for this game. Everything is ready at the moment and we all feel comfortable. In football, it’s hard to avoid collisions. The Vietnamese players won’t hesitate to make contact and they will prove their determination in the game,” Hai said.
Thailand were once the undisputed number one team in Southeast Asian football. But in the past few years, Vietnam has changed that with the Golden Dragons achieving impressive results in tournaments like the Asian Games, AFF Cup and the Asian Cup.
Vietnam has beaten Thailand at many levels since Park took over its reins. The U23 team beat Thailand 2-1 and 4-0 in their last two encounters.
The World Cup qualification match between Thailand and Vietnam will take place 7 p.m. on Thursday at the Thammasat University Stadium in Pathum Thani, Thailand, which has a capacity of 25,000.
Vietnam Airlines could announce flights to the United States soon. Earlier in the year, Vietnam had its FAA safety rating raised to category 1. Now, Vietnam Airlines has been granted a foreign air carrier permit by the US Department for Transport. Simple Flying reports.
Vietnam’s aviation industry is growing at a rapid pace. This is tied in with the growth of the country’s tourism industry. As a result, several Vietnamese carriers are eyeing flights to the United States of America. Vietnam Airlines could be closest to offering this, having been granted a foreign air carrier permit for the country.
Vietnam’s category 1 status
In February of this year, the Federal Aviation Administration upgraded Vietnam’s safety rating. What had sat at category 2 was changed to category 1. Speaking about the Category 1 status, the FAA previously said: “A Category 1 rating means Vietnam’s civil aviation authority meets the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards for personnel licensing, operations, and airworthiness. With the Category 1 rating, Vietnamese air carriers that are able to secure the requisite FAA and DOT authority can establish service to the United States and carry the code of U.S. carriers”.
Will Vietnam Airlines operate to the United States?
It has been known for a while that Vietnam Airlines is eying flights to the United States. One city that the airline is particularly interested in is to Los Angeles.
Currently, there is no direct link from the city to Ho Chi Minh. However, Los Angeles has a large Vietnamese expat population. When returning to Vietnam, passengers have to travel via a third country such as China.
Indeed, Vietnam was the airline which lobbied for the FAA to asses the nation for a category 1 rating. Now the airline has received a foreign air carrier permit from the US Department for Transport.
The carrier’s new authorisation covers a number of routes. According to Flight Global, Vietnam Airlines will be able to fly to five United States cities. This includes Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, Seatle, and San Francisco. Additionally, the carrier will be able to fly to these cities via Taipei, Osaka and Nagoya. However, the permission also extends to flights continuing to Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto.
As such, given the effort that Vietnam has gone through to get as far as they have, it is unlikely that the carrier will give up on plans to fly to the United States. However, other carriers are also eyeing flights to the United States from Vietnam. In fact, Bamboo Airlines suggested using an Airbus A380 for the purpose.
In any career, some sort of marketing comes into play. Whether it is to gain new clients, publicize an upcoming event or advertise a brand new product.
In short, marketing is an effective and powerful strategy. Especially if it is used correctly and creatively.
As a realtor, do you find yourself using the same, old marketing strategies to gain new clients?
Maybe rely on word of mouth from past clients, pass out a bunch of business cards at open houses, or post an engaging Facebook post?
Sure, those strategies work, but, is that the best you can do?
If you are ready to step up your marketing game, check out these 111 effective marketing strategies.
1. Market yourself on popular real estate websites
Make your way onto highly visited realtor websites. This will increase your visibility, popularity and likelihood of potential clients to work with you. The best part of being featured on these websites is the possibility of driving traffic to yourself automatically.
Some other popular websites include:
• Zillow (#1 real estate platform)
• Trulia
• Realtor.com
• RedFin
• Yahoo! Homes
2. Be social
Be active and visible on all major social media platforms (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, LinkedIn and Instagram). The 21st Century is very interactive and online. So, to get in front of someone’s eyes, you better be online.
3. Write listings you cannot ignore
Make listings jump off the page with descriptive and exciting words. You want to write something that people can paint a mental image with and cannot ignore.
Here’s an example of a provoking mental image posting:
Walk to shops, restaurants, farmer’s market from your classic Buckhead estate. With an in-town vibe comparable to Ansley Park, but with all the benefits of living on one of Buckhead’s finest streets. Step inside and find a refreshingly contemporary design, technology & finishes. Open floorplan, enormous living spaces with 11-13′ ceilings, master on main. Modern kitchen with sleek white cabinets, open to family room. Resort-style promenade overlooks private yard, infinity pool, guest house and city views. Terrace level theater, gym, billiards, wine cellar & separate apartment.
If you are having trouble writing a description that catches someone’s eye, check out these companies that specialize in creative writing:
• WriterAccess
• TextBroker
4. Add social sharing options
This gives people the opportunity to share listings, articles and other links to friends and family. By enabling people the freedom to share links, you can increase your chances of being seen.
If you are on WordPress, you can use the following plugins:
• Monarch
• Sumo Share
5. Make a viral video
Capture people’s attention with a funny or provoking video. Videos have the potential to be shared and forwarded to the right audience and it’s very easy to create a simple one with online video editor.
Need some inspiration before filming? Watch the Dollar Shave Club’s rise to success with this one simple video.
6. Competitors
Ask yourself: what are other realtors doing? What does their website look like? Be mindful of what they are doing, avoid their mistakes and match their successes.
If you are on Facebook for business, the business page allows you to follow accounts in the Pages to Watch feature. By utilizing this feature, you can keep tags and analyze which post gets the most likes and shares. See what works and follow their example.
7. Optimized landing pages
Learn how to use landing pages to convert visitors to leads. If using optimization correctly, you can increase conversions, grow your email list and run a more efficient website.
If you are not familiar on how to create landing pages, you can always hire a designer or web developer, or use one of the following applications:
• Optimizley
• ClickFunnels
8. Be easy to contact
As a realtor, you want to be extremely easy to contact. Experts advise to put contact information in visible spots in an appealing and easy way. However, be careful not to draw your audience’s attention away with too much going on. Your contact information and logo need to complement each other so your clients will remember your name, as well as your image.
9. Business cards
Make stellar business cards and hand them out frequently. Business cards have the potential to be passed onwards to potential clients. This is a great way to brand yourself and company to generate business and drive traffic to your site.
10. Automate your lead process
Automating your leads will help you find repeat customers and build referrals. To stay organized, keep a record and track repeating customers to keep a consistent clientele. This way, you can learn who your audiences’ demographics.
Some great automation software or CRM options include:
• Velocify
• SalesForce
If you are on a low-budget, some resourceful options include:
• ZoHo CRM
• Benchmark Email or Mailchimp (email automation platform)
11. Use local images
As a realtor, you are selling the whole neighborhood and town, in addition to the home. To really make the sale, showcase what the area has to offer. Some options including showing main attractions, historical monuments, weekly activities, restaurants nearby or neighborhood outings.
12. Intriguing content
Provide content that makes it hard for people to ignore. In other words, find out what viewers want to see. Nothing is worse than receiving an email with boring content that just floods your inbox. This can potentially hurt your business if you are providing junk. Instead, send your clients exciting emails that contain useful information.
13. Google Adwords
Strengthen your knowledge of online advertisements. Depending on your topic, research what keywords are used most commonly among your target audience. You can set up landing pages and send paid trafficking using PPC.
14. Work with a photography expert
In recent studies, it has been proven that high-quality photos have helped increase the overall sale of a home. The effect of engaging and beautiful photos dramatically increases the chances of a home closing in a shorter period of time. To get your home off the market, consider hiring an experienced home or architectural photographer to help your listing come to life.
15. Search engine optimization (SEO)
How visible is your website when people use Google or Bing? Test your website’s visibility by using keywords, such as: realtor, homes for sale, or your company. To increase your visibility, consider strengthening your search engine optimization (i.e. using different keywords, phrases or content).
16. Virtual tour
This is a good and engaging way to give viewers a comprehensive, objective and life-life experience of the property. It is a great way to showcase the space and impress potential buyers. Virtual tours are more realistic and provide an accurate perspective of the home without leaving the couch.
17. Keywords
Simply, keywords are short and sweet. They are frequently by your target audience to find valuable information. Find out which keywords are used the most and incorporate these phrases in your website to drive traffic. Utilizing these keywords in your website, either in tabs or blogs, can help you rank higher in Google or Bing searches.
18. Video tour of the neighborhood
Video tours of the neighborhood gives potential buyers a better idea of the area’s surroundings (for example, how clean and friendly the neighborhood is). Not only are buyers purchasing the house, but the entire neighborhood. Which is why including a glimpse of what the neighborhood is like is an effective selling technique.
If you are not a videographer, it is best to hire a professional. They will know what features to highlight, angles to shoot at and provide the best quality possible. In addition, they will edit the videos too; making it flow together seamlessly and professionally.
Before hiring anyone, research which companies specializes shooting in real estate. You do not want to work with someone who’s niche is in a different industry, such as food or fashion.
When you shoot a video of a property, make sure to upload it to YouTube and enter all the correct information. As for the title of the video, use the exact address of the property and provide a meaningful description. As soon as your video is indexed, you have a greater chance of landing new visitors and clients because it will show a thumbnail image when people are searching for it by the address. When users see a video thumbnail in the search results page, they will most likely click on that link opposed to any other website.
For example, type in: 1436 W Melrose Ave, Chicago, IL. In Google. There, you will see the big real estate websites dominating the search but you will also notice a thumbnail video with the image of the property.
Whenever someone clocks on the YouTube link, they will be able to find your information, such as contact information, website and more. This is a very good strategy that does not cost anything and can bring you some extra clients.
19. Local sponsorships
Partnering with local sponsors can help brand and expose your company to the public and beyond. Consider helping local festivals, sports teams or school events to help advertise your brand. By doing this, your name could appear in merchandise, flyers, pamphlets and other visible places. This will show you support your community, while driving traffic to your company in more than one way.
20. Set up an IDX website
IDX-enabled websites automatically pull listings from the MLS, so people won’t need to leave your website. This feature will make buyers’ lives easier and your website more resourceful.
21. Start a door marketing campaign
To stand out, use door hangers to market yourself opposed to traditional mail. Mail has the potential to get discarded, whereas a hanger needs to be physically taken off the door, which then has a higher probability of being noticed, and read.
22. Animated video
A short, cute and high-quality animated video can help establish your brand. This approach can still communicate your message with a playful and personable touch.
Check out Neighborhood Loans’ very own Andy walk you through on how to buy a house.
23. Marketing emails
Emails are a great resource to build and retain positive relationships with clients. In order to effectively market emails, it is crucial to know your audience. Understand who they are and what they want to see. This will create a stronger relationship and could spark potential leads.
If you are looking for easy to use and resourceful email marketing platforms, the programs below are highly recommended by professionals:
• Mailchimp
• Benchmark Email
• Constant Contact
24. Pinterest boards
Pinterest is a great resource and creative way to showcase listings. You have the ability to pin pictures that reflect your work and display current properties listed on the MLS. Images of the home are a huge selling point whether a potential buyer decides they would like to pursue the home or not. If they do not like it online, they will not bother coming to see it in person.
25. Livestreaming
As a viewer, it is almost irresistible to not to click “LIVE” and watch the latest news. The human mind is curious to find out what others have to say in the moment. Consider livestreaming to capture people’s attention. If you do decide to go live, be sure to say something exciting! For example, if you are livestreaming from an open house, promote one of the home’s best features to really draw people in.
26. Mobile-friendly
In the 21st Century, almost all Internet searches are done on a mobile device. With that being said, making your website mobile-friendly is a top priority. A recent study done showed about 80% of Internet users use their mobile devices for online activity. To increase traffic and business, make sure your company’s business and personal page is mobile-friendly to all devices, such as the iPhone, Android, Galaxy, etc.
27. Rank your featured listings
Make your featured listings Google and Bing friendly so you can generate more traffic to your website. If that sounded like gibberish to you, hiring a web developer may be the best option. They can help you code, increase the number of viewers and compare which keywords are most effective.
28. Newsletter
Newsletters are an engaging and resourceful way to provide subscribers with information they want to see (i.e. houses for sale, informational guides, etc.) Studies have shown that email marketing is one of the best strategies to build client relationships. To personalize your newsletter, it can reflect your company’s vision, but in a more relaxed way. Newsletters are meant to be informative, but needs to be presented in an interesting, simple and creative way.
29. Instagram stories
Instagram stories is the newest and most effective way to promote something. As a realtor, this feature can be used to market your listings, showcase your values or connect with your audience. This also gives a personal touch and an inside look of what a realtor does daily.
You can make this modern and fun technique by adding effects, filters and geotags to inform viewers of what you are showing and where you are located. However, be careful and try not to go overboard. You do not want to alter the picture or distract the viewer of what they are looking at. The visuals need to be stimulating, but look natural.
30. Start an email paper trail
Provide current clients with relevant information, either regarding personal inquiries, guides or other local listings in the area. Being resourceful to your client in more than one way is attractive to clients. You want to be their go-to person for almost everything.
31. Google Business
Google Business pages will help increase traffic to your website. It also provides more accessibility for viewers to connect and research your company in multiple ways. Having a Google Business page allows existing clients and future customers to post and look at reviews, stay up to date with posts and look at pictures. In addition, it is important to have the correct NAP (name, address, phone) listed. Nothing will irritate someone more with false information. This also effects your SEO, so make sure all information is correct so viewers can find you.
32. Real estate postcards
Send out real estate marketing cards to clients or business partners to help raise brand awareness. It can be about a recent closing, a monumental milestone in your career or an exciting update from your company. You want to impress your clients. And you can do so by delivering exciting and valuable information.
33. Consider going niche
If you have competitors, consider specializing in a specific niche. This will help yourself to be more marketable and memorable for your services.
When competing with major real estate brands, it is almost impossible to rank for the big money keywords. Adding to that, Real Estate is one of the toughest markets to get into in SEO. Therefore, a good idea is to go after a specific niche, like a subdivision.
Basically, create landing pages who offer information about those subdivisions and set up your title tags to tank for them. Remember, when doing this, offer great content to whoever is looking for information on that subdivision. Do not just create landing pages and duplicate everything; that will not work. It might actually get you a penalty for creating doorway pages. Offer value to the user, give them everything you might think they are looking for. For instance, this link is a great example of going niche.
34. Millennials
Straightforwardly, learn how to market to Millennials. They currently make up the largest portion in the home buying market. According to NAR statistics, about 35% of homebuyers in 2016 were Millennials. Meaning, this number is expected to rise in the incoming years.
If you are looking to boost your business, check out this article on who, what and where the Millennials are.
35. Emotional storytelling
Emotional storytelling creates an strong and powerful connection with the audience. It provokes sentimental feelings and an a emotional response to what was presented. Everyone remembers the hilarious reactions parents get from their children about a gender reveal, or when a bear takes a swim in a California pool. All because they provoke a specific emotion – awe and humorous.
Emotional storytelling doesn’t have to be long or hard. These websites know how to get down to the nitty gritty:
• Buzzfeed
• Upworthy
• Viralnova
• Zergnet
• Ranker
36. Snapchat
A new innovative way to publicize and display listings of homes; somewhat a virtual tour of a property. This approach is personal and behind the scenes work. With the new filming feature, videos can be longer than 10 seconds. However, people’s attention spans are still less than that. Be sure your videos are lively, clear and concise. No one will be watching a 250-second story of a kitchen tour. Snapchat also offers users fun and engaging filters and geotags to nicely compliment your masterpiece.
37. Host a webinar
If you are comfortable enough to talk and present valuable information, consider hosting a webinar. Webinars are a great way to generate business leads. Be sure to save enough time at the end for a Q&A portion for viewers.
Want to improve your online campaign? Check out this case study that grossed over $182,32.83 worth in sales from Facebook ads.
38. Do’s and don’ts of Instagram
Learn how to effectively market yourself on Instagram (i.e. differentiate yourself, use a familiar local perspective, use appealing pictures and use keywords over hashtags). However, be sure not to over do it with too many hashtags, overdramatic filters or use bad quality pictures. It is important to follow the rules of Instagram to effectively market, build and retain the right audience.
39. Social ads
Organic research can only get so far. However, paid ads are often the most effective way to get in front of your viewers. Facebook has great features to ensure your ad is being noticed by your desired, targeted audience.
If you’re still not convinced paid advertisements make a difference, check out this case study on how young entrepreneur, Dan Henry, turned $441 in Facebook Ads into $900,000.
40. Snail mail
Do not forget about traditional mail! Sending out physical mail is another way to brand yourself. Although it may be tempting to flood their mailbox with postcards or flyers, you do not want to tick them off, which then can harm your business. Be mindful and respectful and send what is only appropriate.
41. Effective PR
Create and implement a strategic PR plan to stay on track, manage goals and track progress. If you are not familiar on how to run a successful PR campaign or business, you can hire professionals in your area. Depending on your budget, a firm or specialized boutique can assist you. Effective PR can really make a difference whether you are visible or off the map in your audiences’ eyes.
42. Your logo
Logos are a visual representation of your business. To build a logo that speaks on your behalf, it is important to choose something that resonates with you. To start, you will need to design a great, visually appealing and strong logo. Logos give consumers a preview of what your business is all about.
If you are not a Photoshop expert, that’s ok. You can always hire a graphic designer to create an image. Other online editing options include:
• 99 Designs
• Fiverr
43. Guest columnist
Consider getting involved locally on printed publications. Appearing in local magazines or newspapers is a great way to get your name out. When writing, show, don’t tell. Share your knowledge and expertise with readers by telling a story.
44. Host free seminars
If you feel others can benefit from your knowledge and expertise, why not host a free seminar? Provide an extra hand by sharing your experiences with others. Explain how you overcame obstacles, share your successes and how you got to where you are today. Consider holding an informational session of how to buy, how the mortgage process works or covering the basics.
45. Banner campaign
Learn the do’s and don’ts of banner campaigns. This can make or break your business. Here are a few key do’s and don’ts to consider when designing:
DO:
• Have a clear and straightforward message. Nothing is worse than looking at something and you don’t have a clue what their purpose is. Also, this will be the only time in your life where it is acceptable not to write full sentences. Keep your message simple and concise.
• Create easy navigation. Your design must be easy on the eye and flow well. You want to drive your audience in the right direction. In addition to providing helpful links or social media networking buttons.
DON’T:
• Get flashy. As tempting as it is to put every single piece of information on a banner, some mystery is ok. This way, it is more tempting for the viewer to click or find out more information. Less is more.
• Go crazy. This pertains to word content, colors, fonts and images used. This is not a collage for your dorm room. It needs to contain the most useful information in a tasteful and appealing way.
46. Opendoor
Venture Capital helped fund Opendoor, which is a company that helps offer your listings as an all cash-offer for a home that can close in as few as 3 days. Realtors can also refer properties you are not currently listing and collect 25% of the gross commission.
47. Create a client testimonial booklet
Providing potential clients with reviews from past clients gives people a sense of who they are and a better idea of their work ethic. According to a survey conducted by BrightLocal, 88 percent of consumer trust online reviews. So, with that being said, take all your positive reviews from Yelp, Facebook and Google Business and show off what you can do.
48. Infographics
Images that take useful data and information and presents them in a more appealing way, also known as infographics. This makes the data easier and bearable for viewers to read. More likely than not, people will prefer to read text that is broken up with pictures than not. People love visual content. If you are looking to do this project on your own, you can utilize Powerpoint, which offers a wide variety of templates for infographics.
49. Brand items
Start branding items, such as pens, notebooks, koozies, or other freebies. Consider handing out these items at local events or locations (i.e. local festivals, grocery stores or sporting events). Your items should be customized to reflect your personality and overall business to help brand yourself and the company. Next time your clients are writing with your pen, they will always think of you.
50. Partner with local businesses
Reach out to popular local businesses or vendors and pitch the idea of a partnership. Building a professional relationship with a local business can help promote your brand. As for potential partners, you can be creative in your selection. You can choose something within or outside your niche. Remember to offer something in return for their endorsement. Keep in mind they are helping you, so you should do the same. Similar to the phrase, “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine.”
51. Website
Create a modern, tech-savvy, easy to navigate and enticing website that provides everything a client would ever want (i.e. current listings, blog articles, testimonials, photographs, etc.)
Some popular platforms bloggers and successful entrappers are the following:
• WordPress
• WIX
52. Schedule app
Start using a scheduling sharing app to coordinate times to show homes to buyers, such as Doodle. Using these apps can limit miscommunication and the need to go back and forth. The best part is that the scheduling is all online, so any changes or updates can be accessed easily for both parties.
53. Care package
After you have closed with your client, it is important to retain a positive relationship although your work is done. Consider sending a care package after you close with a client. You do not want them to forget about you, especially because past clients have the potential to refer you to future clients, so ‘end’ on a memorable and good note.
Not sure what to include? Some generous and unforgettable options include: a bottle of wine, a branded item, business cards, a customized pillow, coaster or mug with the coordinates of their home address.
54. Keep in touch
Past clients can generate new leads and referrals to new clients. Keep in touch with past clients by sending emails, postcards or holiday cards. Past clients are more than willing to refer you to new business if you did an exceptional job, so always bring your A-game.
Online services can automatically send out emails to clients based on rules, such as:
• Mailchimp
• Benchmark Email
• Constant Contact
55. Personalized messages
Send clear, personalized and authentic messages to your clients. Make the messages about the client; this will spark a special internal feeling. Be sure to use their first name and refer to something they personally enjoy, like an interest or hobby. They will feel more inclined to open the message if is about them or something that interests them.
56. Charity
Not the most common way to gain attention, but that is why it makes it so successful. By giving back to charity, real estate agents can expose themselves in a different way. Consider participating in a fundraiser or 5K that focuses on raising money for Cancer or a mental illness. Not only will you gain positive publicity, you will be contributing to a good cause.
57. Stand-out item
Place a unique or corky item in your open houses. This will make the house unforgettable to potential buyers and stick out to them when recalling homes later. This can be either a pineapple in an untraditional spot, a unique painting right when you walk in or a cultural statute in a visible area.
58. Referral system
Create a referral system for past clients so you can get more business. Provide incentives or gifts to people who refer you to potential clients. According to a survey done by the Outbound Engine, about 75 percent of an agent’s business comes from referrals and word of mouth. So, if you want more referrals, step up your game and create irresistible incentives.
59. Casual outings
Host a non-work related get together with past and or current clients. Have them invite their friends, family and interested buyers. This is a great, organic way to network and meet new people. Who knows, you could meet someone who can help boost your business or refer you to new potential clients.
60. Email subject line
This will either make people want to open or archive your email immediately. Give recipients an interesting, informational, but not too specific that gives it all away. You want them to click to find out the rest.
Not sure what’s catchy and what’s blah? Check out this great article on how to create the perfect email subject line.
61. Direct selling
Market and sell your branded products and or experience to consumers, also known as YOURSELF. This will help build a better relationship with your targeted audience by putting a face to a name.
62. Cobranding
Cobranding is when two brands or companies join together to promote a service or product. This technique can benefit both sides. It is best advised to choose a local company, opposed to a competitor. Your business partner can promote your services, offer a discount (with your permission) with a purchase or verbally express why your company is the right choice.
63. Paid media advertising
Paid media is an effective tool to increase a company’s website traffic. When a company buys a link that appears as an ad in a consumer’s web search and if they click on the link, the company pays the search engine a small fee, also known as a “pay per click”.
64. Point of purchase marketing (POP)
Point of purchase marketing (POP) appeals to shoppers who are in the market and ready to buy. Display your brand or service on products in a specific area and make sure it grabs their attention and the deal is hard to pass up on.
65. Earned media/PR
Also known as “free media”, which is created through attributes other than paid advertising. This can happen through social media testimonials, word of mouth, television or radio mention, or a newspaper or article feature.
66. Press releases
When something changes within your company, reach a milestone or participate in a local event, write about it. Include photographs and quote from key contributors or team members. Your local newspaper will be willing to publish local company updates. Your target audience will appreciate and seek out this kind of information. People like seeing other people succeed.
67. Giveaways
Promote your business or brand by giving away free items or prizes. Make the prize something people would want (i.e. gift basket, free consultation, free subscription etc.). Pretend you are in their shoes, as a consumer, what would you like? What would capture your attention?
68. Customer experience
Focus on the customer’s perspective when planning your approach. Understanding your consumer’s point of view will help set you apart from competitors and build a stronger relationship. Ask them what they would like to see. They will be more than willing to provide feedback if it benefits them in the long run.
69. Retargeting
This can be either on-site, off-site, email marketing or paid media advertising. This helps you get in front of potential consumers that once looked at your website. By retargeting, you can remind people where they left off on Facebook or on your page.
70. Spend wisely
All social media platforms offer a different price value and require some effort. You need to analyze and compare which channel you should invest your time and money on. However, the number one social media platform for optimizing leads and increasing traffic is Facebook. So before looking at different options, be sure to look at Zuckerburg’s billion-dollar idea.
71. Know your target audience
Learn the demographics of your audience (i.e. age, gender, etc.) and psychographics (i.e. values, opinions, etc.). Knowing this information will help you market to your desired audience easier. Why send information out blindly to people who have no interest in what you have to say?
72. Believe in yourself
It may sound scary to step out of your comfort zone and do something you normally wouldn’t do, but you need to believe that you are helping your consumers. You need to believe you and your company are providing the best service possible. Once you start believing in yourself, the work will become easier and you will achieve success.
73. Get your clients to complain
More often than not, most clients have something they do not like about a product or service, but will keep their opinions to themselves. Or, will have no problem disclosing their issues. Having them express these positive and negative feelings can help you improve your performance and keep your clients happy.
74. Speak at meetings
Many local organizations or clubs are always looking for speakers to come talk. Consider offering your expertise and knowledge for them to take advantage of. If you decide to participate in speaking, make sure your message is clear and to the point. If open, offer your services and availability to your audience (i.e. how, where and when to reach you). This is inviting and appealing to your audience so they will be more willing to approach you.
75. Always leave a voicemail
When contacting potential clients, business partners or local vendors, always leave a concise, but detailed voicemail. They will be more inclined to return your call. People are less likely to call back an unknown number without knowing who is on the other end.
76. Guest post on different websites
Research highly visited websites within your industry and see if they allow guest posting. Typically, websites have an entire section explaining the requirements they have for guest contributors.
Guest posting has the potential to increase traffic to your own website by increasing your presence on different websites other than your own.
For example, real estate agent, Bill Gassett, guest posts on multiple websites, which increases his SEO presence. AKA generates more traffic and business for himself. Check out his latest articles, here.
77. Matterport
A widely used 2D or 3D tool to virtually guide a consumer through a piece of property, a construction site, rental communities or for travel and hospitality purposes. This realistic application is used in various of industries to better showcase a space at every angle. Additionally, this resource is extremely simple to use, accessible, easy to share and a powerful tool to boost your business.
78. Drone videos
A new, innovative and creative way to show off a property. Legally, there are certain heights drones cannot surpass. In the United States, drones can legally fly up to 1,312 feet or 400 meters. Consider using this engaging approach to showcase the home’s exterior, as well as the neighborhood. People want to see how the home looks from the street and from above. This technique will definitely catch their attention and make the home and yourself stand out from competitors.
Check out this awesome drone video Neighborhood Loans put together for a Chicago listing.
79. Photo contests
This is a great interactive and fun way to connect with your target audience. Give the public an opportunity to win a prize they can’t turn down. By offering an incentive, you can increase the likelihood of consumers participating. In addition, this can help you market your brand with their help, personally. Be sure to have requirements such as: they need to follow your account, tag the company, specific picture guidelines and of course, hashtags! This can work on either Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.
Check out Harpoon Brewery’s Instagram account for ideas on how to get your first photo contest started.
80. Ask the experts
Everyone is always curious and interested in learning about another person’s success. Primarily because they want to replicate that success themselves. Try reaching out to several industry leaders and see if they are willing to answer a few questions regarding their philosophy or secret tricks. With their consent, share their responses in a blog post, possibly with a Q&A portion. Another great thing about featuring people is that it has a better potential to be shared, either by the experts themselves, or by your regulars.
81. Statistic lists
Providing hard, statistical data can be appealing to consumers, as long as it relates to your industry. You can show statistics regarding your industry, company or yourself. If you are showing personal stats, you can choose to include: revenue growth, number of closings, number of happy customers and more. This will definitely impress potential clients.
82. Use your surroundings
Get creative with how you market yourself. Utilize urban areas and unusual places to leave your message.
For example, chalk it up! Relive your glory days and write on the sidewalk, mall parking lot or grocery store. Leave a simple and concise message with your main purpose, and phone number to contact you.
Or, leave your mark near weird and uncommon spots. When people see something bizarre and unique, it tends to stick out the most in their memory. Ever see a dog do yoga with their owner or help with housework? This pup exists. Check it out!
83. Promote
All great content requires promotion. Nothing happens organically anymore. Everything needs a little extra help. So, when posting a blog or writing a press release, share it with your email subscribers and social media followers. This can increase your clickthroughs and views to your published work. Also, increasing the potential of your work being shared.
84. Podcasts
This a great option for anyone with a smart phone. They have the ability to download your podcast on the go and listen to it from anywhere. This is convenient and entertaining for consumers if you provide valuable information and content, such as interviews with industry leaders, exciting news or relevant information.
85. Memes
A viral social phenomenon that takes an image, video or text and creates a caption that is intended to be funny, shameless or quirky. Although it’s not the most traditional, but it’s highly captivating and entertaining to look at.
Check out the best memes in 2017, according to the Thrillist.
86. Spread your content
Although you want to provide your audience the best content, that does not mean bombarding them every day with a new blog. This can overwhelm them and turn them away from your business. Find a pace that works for you and your audience.
87. Participate in hashtags
If you are looking to build your social media following, you need to be an active member in the cyber world. By participating in weekly hashtag games or traditions, you will be posting regularly and appeal to a larger audience. For example: #throwbackthursday #mancrushmonday and others. This can also show how you can keep up with the latest trends. #youth #trendy
88. Sweepstakes
Very similar to giveaways, but a little more formal. These can be bigger end prize, making it an even more appealing incentive to enter. They are super quick and simple for people to enter. In addition, you can have people subscribe to your newsletter as part of their submission.
89. Poll
If you are stumped on what content your readers want to see, ask them! Create an easy to navigate and accessible poll for your audience to answer. They will be more than willing to provide their input if it benefits them. Don’t sit and wonder when you can easily ask for their opinions.
90. Online magazines
Creating your own virtual, 3D magazine is another engaging and stimulating way to reach to your audience. Again, offer great content, but not too much. You can also add some other “filler” articles. These are usually topics that are interesting, soft and fun. Remember to include lots of visuals and videos. And don’t be afraid to add some personality in it, people want to hear the writer’s voice behind the words.
91. Recycle old content
Remember that top performing article several months back? Why not resuse it? Do not let your old material just sit on the back burner. Some of your older work can still be relevant and provide valuable information to your consumers. Consider recycling your old content into other things like courses, e-books, newsletters or a paid product.
92. LinkedIn
This social media tool allows people to connect or introduce friends and colleagues to other working professionals in their field. Join high volume groups within your industry and contribute to the conversation. By joining in on the conversation, you have a greater chance of being noticed and sought out for your opinion.
93. Tour of the office
People love to see the ‘behind the scenes’ work. Give your audience a video tour of the office and introduce them to some key employees. Show them around, from the working area, to the break room to the boss’ office. This gives the viewer an inside peak of what your everyday work life looks like, making it a more personable connection.
94. Perfect your elevator pitch
Practice, practice, practice. Crafting and perfecting this little speech will help you deliver this 30 second spiel confidently and clearly. Be sure to mention who you are and what sets you apart from the rest. You want to convince this person you are the best choice.
95. Calendar
Create a fun, educating and inspiring calendar for your clients. Each month, include a picture that relates to your industry, along with an inspirational quote or fun fact people may not know about. You can either sell or give this away to clients as a thank you.
96. Join your city’s Chamber of Commerce
By joining in your community’s Chamber of Commerce, you will expose yourself to other industry leaders, managers of different backgrounds or local citizens. This can help build local relationships and increase your brand awareness.
97. Handwritten letters
Send out hand written letters to your past and current clients to show how much you appreciate them. This can go a long way and really make an everlasting impression. You can even send them out to your most loyal email subscribers or potential leads.
98. Coupons/sales
Offer clients a coupon or special sale for a holiday or company tradition. For example, a Father’s Day exclusive or a special sale rewarding customers for your company’s latest accomplishment. If you are not a graphic designer, try using Canva to create a coupon to send to your targeted audience, such as your email subscribers.
99. Pop-ups
When you are reading an article, don’t you hate it when a pop-up interrupts right in the middle of the good part? This often makes readers mad and click away from your site. To avoid losing your audience, create unobtrusive pop-ups. These pop-ups would appear in in the lower corner of the screen so you don’t ruin the viewer’s experience. Your pop-ups should give people the option to read a different article or the opportunity to subscribe to your newsletter, instead of blocking their view.
100. Controversy
There is nothing wrong linking to a controversial post or image. Try sourcing a different perspective on your website to engage and spark a conversation. People are not afraid to hold back their thoughts and opinions. This is a great way to get your audience talking and learn about their values and interests.
101. Recommend a tool or app
People are always looking for ways to stay trendy and be efficient as possible. Try sharing a tool (preferably free) that you find useful and easy to use. This can be either a tool or app you use regularly or find resourceful. Your audience will be interested in learning how you keep yourself updated and acquainted as technology is constantly evolving.
102. Ask for advice
Although you are the one consumers are reaching out to, it does not hurt to ask for people’s advice on the subject. Try posting a question, asking for their advice and see what your audience has to say. From there, you can add your opinion, either agreeing or disagreeing and explaining why. This can be a beneficial way to understand your audience’s thought process and you can then educate them if they are confused.
103. Support a competitor
This may sound risky, but try promoting another business within your industry. You may encounter some good karma and it can potentially grow your own business. Maybe even start a new business relationship. If you are willing to take the leap, it could benefit you positively.
104. Share breaking news
Subscribe to newsletters from industry-related magazines or blogs. You can choose to receive content daily, weekly or monthly. This information will be sent to your email and give you the latest updates within your industry, trends and changes. If something catches your eye or you think your audience might find this useful, share it. Your audience will appreciate these updates and it will keep you informed of the very latest.
105. Offer sneak peaks
Depending on what products, information or giveaways you have to offer, give your audience a sneak peak of what is coming. This will engage and build suspense of what you actually have to offer. Your audience will try to dissect the surprise you are hiding and wait for the day you release the highly anticipated information.
For example, Apple does this particularly well. Don’t you hate not knowing when the newest and most advanced iPhone is kept under wraps for months on end? Instead, they reveal small details and features, which makes people more curious to find what the final product has to offer.
106. Tell a story
People like hearing real-life stories and want to know what happens behind the scenes. Tell a story to your audience of a funny, interesting or scary time something happened to you on the job. It will engage and give a personal appeal to your audience. Sharing stories is also a great way to build relationships.
107. Hold a Q&A session
Your audience has questions, whether they express it or not. Consider having a live or written Q&A session with a curious individual. Choosing someone who is a customer within your industry is appealing because they are in the same playing field as the rest of your clientele. Be sure to answer questions that many people would have, opposed to specific questions that relate to only one person’s situation.
108. Website analytics
Ever wonder which content sparked the most interest for your audience? Well, there is a way to figure that out. Take a look at your website’s analytics to find out which content generated the most clicks, views and shares. That way, you can post similar ideas and content that appeal to your audience, which will generate more traffic to your website.
109. Spotlight an employee
People are curious as to who they will be working with once they engage with a company. Why not spotlight an employee and show the world the brains behind the company? It will give your audience a better idea of who they are, where they come from and their work philosophy. It also provides a sense of security and relief knowing exactly who they may be dealing with.
110. Promote an industry-related event
If your industry holds public seminars or events for people to attend, promote it! Educational events or workshops are extremely helpful to people looking to further their education or strengthen skills. People will be more than willing to attend if it is local, free and they will gain something from the experience. If you are promoting it, be sure to attend the event yourself. Don’t be a hypocrite and not show up, it will look bad on your part.
111. Respond to a tag or mention
Depending on what kind of social media platforms you use, your audience has the ability to comment on your work. If this applies to you, consider replying to comments, tags or mentions from your audience. This can build relationships with your target audience. Making them feel special and connected on a deeper level with you.
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are forms of corporate restructuring that are becoming increasingly popular. The motive for wanting to merge with or acquire another company comes from management trying to achieve better synergy within the organization. This synergy is thought to increase the competitiveness and efficiency of the company.
If you need a lawyer to help you with an acquisition in Vietnam, contact a local business law firm, such as GBS. Let their expert business and contract lawyers make the process less complicated. Their legal experts have the skills to guide you through the process. GBS can help you avoid costly oversights in the finished contract. GBS’s lawyers have experience with mergers and acquisitions between companies both big and small and the experience to get you the most beneficial deal possible when you sign the contract.
Mergers and acquisitions are also ways for a company to acquire capabilities it either cannot or does not want to develop internally, as well as to take over a company viewed as underperforming or undervalued and unlock value by changing operations or taking the company private.
Key Takeaways
Mergers combine two companies into a new entity. They are usually all equity.
Acquisitions occur when one company buys enough equity in another to become its owner. These can be all cash, all equity, or, more commonly, a combination of both.
Acquisition of debt can also be used as part of an acquisition strategy.
Mergers
Mergers usually occur between companies that believe a newly formed company can compete better than the separate companies can on their own. The boards of the two companies approve a combination of the businesses, as well as the terms.
Mergers usually occur on an all-stock basis. This means the shareholders of both merging companies are given the same value of shares in the new company that they owned in one of the old companies. Therefore, if a shareholder owned $10,000 worth of shares before the merger, he or she would own $10,000 in shares of the newly formed company after the merger. The number of shares owned would most likely change following the merger, but the value would remain the same.
Acquisitions
Mergers are rarely a true merger of equals, however. More often, one company indirectly purchases another company and allows the target company to call it a merger to maintain its reputation. When an acquisition occurs in this way, the purchasing company can acquire the target company using all stock, all cash, or a combination of both.
When a larger company purchases a smaller company with all cash, there is no change to the equity portion of the parent company’s balance sheet. The parent company has simply purchased a majority of the common shares outstanding. When the majority stake is less than 100%, the minority interest is identified in the liabilities section of the parent company’s balance sheet.
When a company acquires another company in an all-stock deal, equity is affected.
When this occurs, the parent company agrees to provide the shareholders of the target company a certain number of shares in the parent company for every share owned in the target company. In other words, if you owned 1,000 shares in the target company and the terms were for a 1:1 all-stock deal, you would receive 1,000 shares in the parent company. The equity of the parent company would change by the value of the shares provided to the shareholders of the target company.
Vietnamese shares declined on Wednesday morning, dragged by the banking and realty sectors as investors worried about increasing risks.
The benchmark VN-Index on the Hồ Chí Minh Stock Exchange fell 0.26 per cent to close at 976.78 points.
The VN-Index was down 0.48 per cent on Tuesday as the stock market re-opened after the Independence Day holiday.
According to VNDirect Securities Corp (VNDS), the market is at risk now as investors worry about the increasing volatility of local assets as selling is increasing in all large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap stocks.
The large-cap VN30-Index was down 0.35 per cent in the morning session while the VNMID-Index and the VNSML-Index decreased by 0.45 per cent and 0.65 per cent, respectively.
“Sellers are ready to sell and give up on their assets at any price while buyers are unwilling to purchase them,” VNDS said in its Tuesday daily report.
On the Hà Nội Stock Exchange, the HNX-Index lost 0.61 per cent to end at 100.78 points.
The northern market index slashed 0.89 per cent on Tuesday.
Nearly 93 million shares were traded on the two local exchanges, worth VND1.7 trillion (US$73 million).
Banking and property firms were the major cause for the extended decline of the Vietnamese stock market.
Among declining realty firms were Vincom Retail (VRE), Vinhomes (VHM), Tân Tạo Industrials and Investment JSC (ITA) and Kinh Bắc City Development Holding JSC (KBC).
Meanwhile, none of the 13 listed banks made gains with losers being VPBank (VPB), Asia Commercial Bank (ACB) and Sacombank (STB).
New chain has lower prices than MWG’s thegioididong.com chain.
The Mobile World Investment Corporation (MWG) launched a chain of ten Dien Thoai Sieu Re stores (dienthoaiSIEURE.com) on September 3, with the first being in Go Vap district, Ho Chi Minh City, marking an important new step for the retailer.
Mr. Doan Van Hieu Em, CEO of MWG, said that average revenue of Dien Thoai Sieu Re stores during the pilot period starting at the beginning of August was about VND12-15 million ($520-$645) per day. “The figure is estimated to increase strongly when the operational system is completed,” he added.
The new chain has lower prices than MWG’s thegioididong.com (TGDD) chain, by about 10 per cent, and will compete with small mobile phone stores. The Go Vap store covers about 15-20 sq m and sells mobile phones at prices of less than VND8 million ($345). To enable lower prices, the store will cut five-star services offered by thegioididong.com, such as using products before purchase and changing to another product within 30 days. Each store will have one consultant and no wi-fi and no support on product warranty.
Mr. Hieu Em said the new model focuses on customers the retailer has never served. These customers wish to own authentic products at an affordable price and are not focused on added value services thegioididong.com provides. “We will continue to complete the new business model to make it suitable with our targeted customers, as well as measure efficiency before deciding to expand the chain on a large scale,” he said.
As at the end of July, MWG was operating a total of 2,530 stores, an increase of 69 compared to the end of June. The Dien may Xanh (DMX) chain added 27 new stores, including upgrades, while the Bach hoa Xanh (BHX) chain added 59 new stores, bringing its total to 659.
In the first seven months of this year, MWG recorded consolidated net revenue of VND60.93 trillion ($2.62 billion), up 18 per cent compared to the same period last year, while net profit was VND2.41 trillion ($103.8 million), up 37 per cent. Year-to-date, MWG has fulfilled 56 per cent of revenue targets and 68 per cent of profit targets for FY2019.
The online segment contributed 14 per cent of MWG’s total revenue, up 29 per cent year-on-year. The company has continued to avoid price differences of products online vs. offline, to optimize the omni-channel retail model, focusing on serving customers who seek convenience and service quality at TGDD and DMX stores, as well as through the thegioididong.com and dienmayxanh.com websites.
An artisan in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho has turned dry coconut shells into teapot holders with sophisticated decorations.
Many households in the Southwestern region often use coconut shells as teapot holders. Taking advantage of this, Dang Dong Diem transforms the shells into worthwhile objects.
Dry coconut shells turned into teapot holders
The shells are decorated with different designs such as dragons, lotuses and the four seasons.
Diem said that in 1983, he came to a handicraft workshop of a local artisan whose sculpture really impressed him. Diem then asked him to follow a course there.
After finishing the course, he focused on practising on dry coconut shells.
Initially, he barely sold anything. Then he sent them to some outlets in HCM City for promotion, which helped to boost the sale.
It is quite time-consuming to finish a product. Firstly, he has to select a coconut which is big and old enough. He is also very careful in separating the shell from the core to ensure no cracks and then dry it.
He uses knives to carve the shell which is after that painted. He usually spends around five days on a product.
Each product is sold at between VND800,000-1.2 million, depending on size and decoration. He ever sold roughly 100 products per year and now he sells 4-5 per month on average based on customers’ orders. The product is popular with Vietnamese overseas.
Diem also transforms dry coconut shells into other ornamental objects at home such as flower vases.
The driver of a Hanoi school bus in which a six-year-old boy was found dead early August will be investigated for “involuntary manslaughter.”
The Cau Giay District prosecutors approved Tuesday the police’s decision to launch a probe into the actions of 53-year-old Doan Quy Phien.
Phien is a contract driver who drove the bus that picked up and dropped students of the Gateway International School in the district.
On August 6, six-year-old Le Hoang Long was allegedly left behind in a 16-seater school bus for nine hours. He was pronounced dead after being taken to the local hospital in the afternoon.
Long had attended the school for just one day when he died.
A forensic report later revealed that Long died of “heat stroke” and “respiratory failure.” He was not suffering from any diseases, the report said.
Police have determined that the death took place in the bus between 12:30-3:30 p.m., and that he suffered no external injury.
The district prosecutors say that Phien was “careless” for not checking the vehicle himself, leaving the task entirely to the bus monitor, 55-year-old Nguyen Bich Quy.
Quy has already been placed under a probe on the same charges. She has been detained while Phien has been granted bail.
Phien works for the Ngan Ha transport firm, which was responsible for transporting students of Gateway to and from the school until August 12, when the school terminated the contract.
The case is still under investigation, with the school’s responsibility in the death to be determined later, prosecutors have said.
Questions remain
Before she was arrested for investigation, Quy said Gateway must be held responsible for Long’s death before herself or Phien.
She said she did not understand exactly what her responsibilities were as she had neither signed a contract with Gateway nor been instructed on how to receive the students by the school and the transport firm at the time of the incident.
Quy also said she has not had the opportunity to meet up with Phien to clarify several points regarding their responsibilities in the incident.
Long was put on the school bus on Trung Hoa Street, Hanoi’s Cau Giay District at around 7 a.m. on August 6. Teachers from the school have said that Long sat on the last row of the 16-seat car, which was carrying 13 students that morning.
At around 8 a.m., Quy and 12 students are believed to have left the bus, leaving Long alone in it. Phien then drove the bus to a parking lot about a kilometer away from the school.
At 3:45 p.m., when the bus was driven back to the school to take the students home, Long was found motionless on the bus floor behind the driver’s seat. The hospital said he was brought in dead.
The temperature in Hanoi that day ranged between 26 and 34 degrees Celsius (79-93 degrees Fahrenheit).
