How to Take Your Virtual Business to the Next Level

No matter what type of virtual business you run — whether it’s an e-commerce store, a virtual office service, or simply a blog — there are always ways to take it to the next level. You’re never going to improve your company, though, if you don’t have a plan for growth.

Hopefully, the advice laid out below will help you to formulate the perfect plan in this instance. Read on to find out how you can improve your virtual business and ultimately take it to the next level. 

Increase both online and real-world exposure

If you want to see your virtual business thrive, you need to increase its exposure across the board.

When it comes to online exposure, a unique yet effective route to go down is to advertise your business on virtual worlds and platforms. Many high-profile businesses have used Second Life to increase their online exposure, including none other than 20th Century Fox and Warner Bros. Records, and they have managed to attain vast amounts of attention from doing so.

You shouldn’t just seek to expose your business online, though. Despite the fact that it is, in fact, virtual, you should still be looking for ways to spread the word about your company in the real world, too. Only when you do this can you tap into the market that still doesn’t use the web fervently.

There are many ways you can market your virtual business in the real-world, some of which include:

• Making use of custom t-shirt printing and wearing your brand while you’re on the go.
• Wrapping your car in things that link directly to your business (your name, logo, color scheme, etc.)
• Attending trade shows.

Build credibility

Unlike brick-and-mortar businesses, you have to go out of your way to prove that your virtual company is actually viable and real. To do that, you have to build customer confidence and credibility for yourself.

A few ways you can do just that include:

Thinking of your website as being a storefront

As a virtual business, your company website is the focal point of everything you do and offer online. You should, then, treat it like it is your storefront. This can be achieved by giving your website a relatable name, making sure it can be found easily and ensuring that it is easy to navigate.

Invest in virtual office features

You may not run a virtual office yourself, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t invest in VO features offered by other companies. By investing in a virtual toll-free number, a virtual reception service, a virtual assistant, or a virtual chatbot, you will make your business appear to be just like any other, and that’s your exact goal. What’s more, embracing virtuality in this instance will allow you to be available 24/7, and that will help you to keep your customers happy.

Start a blog

Again, you might not run a blogging business, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t run a blog alongside your venture. Doing so will give you a platform on which you can prove just how much of an expert you are in your market.

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Taking a Look at the All Time Hit Activities in Second Life

Second Life is often described as a simulation game, but that isn’t entirely accurate. The platform is more about social mingling, discussing ideas, making friends, going on adventures and everything else that one may want to do if they really had a second life. For those that have just joined in recently and for old members who have not logged in for a while, it’s time to take a look back at some of the most fun activities in Second Life.

Live Music, Dancing and More

Live music is still, to date, a constant event in Second Life, but just like in real life, you need to find out where it’s happening and when; alongside who is playing. We recommend attending random events, but you can also be selective about the kind of music you want to listen to. There are some pretty good musicians and singers in there, but unlike in real life, you can interact with the virtual representations of the real artists, if you choose to.

The nightclubs are complete with their own DJs and a fair gathering of party lovers during the weekends.

Enjoying Baseball Games With Your Friends

Did you know that you can watch live baseball games in Second Life? A number of stadiums hold these games, some of which are The Brickyard Industrial Park, The Liberty Dome, Great American Field, and Blue River Pavilion.

Watch the hilarious games as players break real-life MLB records in the form of Bart Simpson, or join the game yourself in advance and break some of those MLB records yourself! 

As you can probably imagine, watching these baseball games in all their loveable ridiculousness can be just as fun as taking part in one, as long as you have taken the time to get used to the controls. If not, be ready for a lot of booing from the crowd!

Exploring the Mainland

Is exploration a big part of the Second Life experience? It can be if you want it to be because just like in your real life, it’s all about what you like and dislike, but only in this one, you have more control! However, since Second Life is a lot less dangerous and expensive to explore recklessly, than it would be in our real lives, exploration of the Mainland is a must!

The continents and the islands within Second Life are largely connected to each other. Which means that when a member reaches the end of the simulation area they are in at that moment, crossing a certain point will lead to a new location/continent/simulation altogether.

Finding these new locations can be a lot of fun, especially since new members have no idea what or who they may find in the next continent. As a matter of fact, even the oldest member probably has not seen half of all of these locations since there are tens of thousands of publicly accessible sims, connected to each other on The Grid, aka the Mainland.

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The Career Outlook for Data Analysts in 2020

Are you a data analyst who is looking to advance their career at the dawn of the next decade? Perhaps you’re simply curious about working in data analytics and want to know what to expect. Either way, good news awaits. The job outlook for data analysts is one of the most promising of any career, both for 2020 and far beyond. 

Businesses of all sizes are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of data for growth and innovation. Demand for professionals who can analyze data to uncover trends, identify opportunities, and provide insights greatly exceeds the supply. This means that companies are willing to compensate suitable candidates generously. 

In addition to high demand and high salaries, data analysts can leverage the nature of their job to work remotely or even become self-employed. Career opportunities in this field span multiple industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, marketing, tech and many more. 

Still not convinced? Let’s dive deeper into the career outlook for data analysts in 2020. 

Outlook for Jobs in Data Analytics

This data analysts job outlook details the nature and average median salaries of some of the most popular career paths in the field. Some noteworthy points include the salary of a machine learning analyst, which ranges upwards of $127,000 per year. Higher-end market research analyst positions command salaries of up to $121,000 per year. 

The estimated job growth for a financial analyst sits at 11% through 2026, which is reasonably higher than the 5% to 8% average for all professions. Also included is a study by Accenture, showing that 79% of executives believe companies that don’t embrace data will lose strength in the market and potentially face extinction. 

It’s not only the labor bureaus that see a bright future for data analysts. Businesses are well-aware of their importance and are reacting accordingly. Ending things off with a 2019 report by LinkedIn, the networking platform stated that data scientist job openings increased by an impressive 56% in the past year. To sum it up, the outlook could not be better. 

Becoming a Data Analyst

By now, you may be compelled to pursue a career in data analytics. But where do you start? There are three steps to launching your career as a data analyst. The first involves earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology. You also need to study or minor in data analysis or statistics. 

While you study, it would be wise to seek internship or employment opportunities in a relevant field. Having work experience will go a long way in increasing your employability after graduating. From here, consider pursuing a certificate program or master’s degree to further improve your credentials.

Required Skills

Employers typically request applications from candidates with SQL and Python proficiency. This may also include XML, Javascript, R, SAS, and Hadoop. Programming languages aside, skills such as communication, critical thinking, math, and attention to detail are often requested. 

Conclusion

Pursuing a career in data analytics is one way to build a solid foundation for yourself in the future. Now it’s up to you to make it happen.

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Working In A Special Education Setting

If you love working with children, are compassionate, patient, and enjoy the concept of teaching, the field of special education is for you. The need for nurturing educators who understand the specific demands of special education is increasing, and similarly, the understanding of special education in the teaching sector. The difference a special needs educator can make in a classroom is phenomenal especially when children who struggle to excel do just that under the guidance of a well equipped and experienced teacher. What exactly constitutes special education and the need for it?

What Is Special Education?

Special education applies to children who have difficulty learning or possess learning disabilities which place them at a slight disadvantage when compared to their peers who do not have disabilities. Therefore, a traditional classroom setting will not be beneficial to the special education needs children; these children need a nurturing, knowledgeable, and specialized classroom to deal with these disabilities. 

 There are 5 types of learning difficulties, namely;

1. Dyslexia – this is one of the most common disabilities in special education. Dyslexia is a condition where a learner has trouble in the ability to read, interpret or break down letters or words in order to understand them. This disability is not a sign of poor intelligence. 
2. ADD and ADHD - Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) refers to the state of hyperactivity or poor attention spans which make it difficult for a learner to focus and concentrate for long periods. Children with this disorder usually possess low impulse control. 
3. Dysgraphia – children with dysgraphia are unable to write legibly or coherently and may be suffering from a brain disease or damage.
4. Dyscalculia – children who have dyscalculia struggle with mathematics or arithmetic due to the result of a brain disorder, these children will struggle with performing arithmetic on a basic level.
5. Dyspraxia – children with this disorder will struggle with coordination and movement, dyspraxia refers to motor skills difficulties within a child. 

Teachers specializing in special education will need to possess various ranges of skills and methods to teach their children effectively. 

The Need For Special Education Teachers

In today’s world, children with special needs, learning disabilities or are disabled are readily accepted and integrated into school compared to in the past. Federal law requires that these children are, in fact, not segregated from their peers who do not have disabilities and are integrated into traditional classrooms as much as possible. Therefore, the demand exists for teachers in this field but there aren’t enough of these specialized educators to serve the needs of the education system currently.  

If you have the passion and determination to excel in this field, consider studying the Childhood Master’s Program at Bank Street, which will equip you with the diverse skills needed for special education. 

Becoming a special education teacher is a highly rewarding job, as one can see the difference a skilled approach makes in a child from one month to the next. If you want to make a real difference as an educator, become a special education teacher and take your job gratification up a notch.

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Living Life Online: Using the Internet for Work and Play

Many of us seem to find ourselves spending more and more time online, whether its watching TV shows, playing video games or for work purposes. One of the great advantages of being familiar with how to use the internet is that you can use it to make money or to start a business. There are plenty of online gaming competitions, for example, where players can make millions of dollars by winning tournaments. If you use the internet for work or for your business, here are some top tips for making the most of it in your professional life. 

Keep Websites Up to Date

If you have a business, then it is more than likely you will have a website. One of the most important things you can do with regards to website admin is to keep it up to date. This is important for two main reasons: for security and for appearances. 

From a security perspective, you will need to make sure that your site is running on the latest software and has the latest security patches. If you do not regularly review these, then you run the risk of your site being hacked and having all of the data stolen. Keeping your website up to date also shows your customers that you are still in business and that you are a professional company who cares about their branding.  

Find Specific Deals for Your Business

A small or new business, in particular, is likely to be savvy when it comes to buying products and services from suppliers. The internet opens up a whole new world for small business where they can shop around for the best deals and see prices from many different companies all in one place. 

Whether the business is operating online or offline, you will be able to use the internet for services that are relevant for you. A car garage may need to find specialist motor trade insurance; whereas a website company may require a business phone line and internet connection. Searching online for better deals rather than renewing with the same provider every year is likely to save you money. 

Use Social Media to Interact with Customers

Social media accounts should be used to inform customers about news to do with the business, but they are very much a two-way street. The very nature of social media is that businesses should be social with other businesses and their customers. The great thing about social media is that you can respond quickly and efficiently to customers. 

Another aspect the customers in particular love about social media is that it can be used to hold companies to account. When a customer has a complaint, then one of the first things they will do is head to a platform like Twitter to call out the company and get a response. Acknowledging these types of complaint is often much better than ignoring them which can lead to the problem becoming even bigger.

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GET YOU NEWS POSTED ON THE SL ENQUIRER!

YOU GET ONE COMPLIMENTARY PR POST ON US!

**Please note if you are a current advertiser with SLE, PRs are FREE for the duration of your AD Package.

HOW TO SUBMIT A PR TO THE SL ENQUIRER:

Quick Guide to Creating a Press Release for Promoting Charities, Events, Business & Services in The SL Enquirer.

A press release is a vital part of a marketing plan in Second life. It provides important information about events, products and services as well as where the target audience can find what is being promoted. Also,  who to contact for additional information.

Having a solid PR plan makes it easy to promote to a variety of media sources who can reach out to the masses on your behalf.  The SL Enquirer has put together a quick guide to help get you started on your way to virtual success.

You will need these key components:

*Catchy Headline/announcement

example: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Grand Opening of (event name) on (date & time)

*Promotional Texture

400x400 (jpg) (SLE Standard)

Check with the media source you will be sending your pr to for their image size/file requirements.

*PR INFO

The who, what, where, when about the event/service/product/location

(this information should be between  450- 1000 words)

Links

* LM, SLURL(s), Urls, social networks and preferred contact info.

* email a press release / slurls links and promo image as an attachment. to lanaijarrico@gmail.com

Charities in Second Life

Charity events and fundraiser Press releases are free to publish at least once per week per charity event. Submissions are due  at least one week before event for best exposure.

REMEMBER THE MAIN PURPOSE OF A PRESS RELEASE IS TO INFORM AND ENTICE THE PUBLIC ABOUT WHAT YOU HAVE TO OFFER AND HOW THEY CAN FIND/CONTACT YOU!

QUESTIONS?

Email lanaijarrico@gmail.com to learn more about getting your press release posted in The SL Enquirer

THE SL ENQUIRER- PROVIDING NEWS TO SL RESIDENTS SINCE 2005

-Lanai Jarrico

The SL Enquirer

WWW.SLENQUIRER.COM

Follow us:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSLEnquirer

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LanaiJarrico

The SL Enquirer Media Group

Press Pass Media

SLE Ad Options

If you never tried our services and wish to:

Additional pr posts are 300L payable to Lanai Jarrico, or you can purchase a monthly Ad Package for 1k a month and get FREE weekly press release posts for the duration of your ad!

We also offer Spotlight Features for 3k, it includes an article/ interview written by The SL Enquirer, 1 month ad banner/link on our site and free weekly press release for the duration of your ad.  If you wish to continue your ad , it is 1k per month, free pr posts included!

Contact Lanai for this special offer.

lanaijarrico@gmail.com

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SL GeekSpeak – Do you look at the future with Fear or with Hope? Join the discussion September 21st at 12pm SLT

On the one hand, we are all healthier than we were and living longer.  The number of people in severe poverty decreases all the time.  Technology improves all the time.  We now accept our responsibility to protect the natural world.  And we will soon be moving out into space and founding colonies on other planets.
On the other hand, there is always the danger of a third World War, government agencies increase in power all the time, new diseases have appeared, fanaticism of all sorts seems to be increasing, and of course the whole planet may be destroyed by an asteroid.
Can we solve our problems and continue our journey into a better future?  Or are we facing disaster?  Tell us what you think our chances are.  Are you hopeful or fearful?  Or both?  Bring your friends to discuss it.
IM Vulcan Viper if you have any ideas for new subjects.

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The Fall Full Perm Fair OPEN NOW Until September 29th 2019

Features 40 Top Creators-ALL Categories-BIG Discounts-FREE Gifts- Everything sold with Full Permissions.

This fair features the top creators of full permissions fashions, furniture, building components-templates-sounds-poses ALL CATEGORIES- All purchased at this fair can be resold. Starting or shopping for your second life business starts here. 

These creators will be offering their newest releases, fair exclusives and offering special discounts for the fair. SHOP-COMPARE-$AVE! – JOIN The Full perm group at the entrance.

 

Fair Blog

   http://oldeuropevillage.blogspot.com

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/764547213617221/

Contact Keith Bemis SL avatar name Up4 Dawes

e-mail citycomp2000@yahoo.com

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GeekSpeak – Should we merge Science and Sports? Join the discussion on Saturday September 14th at 12PM SLT

Sports tend to become more and more extreme and a lot of science is involved so that people can achieve new records.  Is it time to merge sports and science?  Science will make new sports possible and the team of scientists will also get prizes.  How about skydiving from 20 km up or deep diving, 10 km down?  Would people be interested in such a merger?  Do you think, as science progresses and we think of more and more strange new sports, it is inevitable that it will happen?

How will the alliance between sports and science look when we move out into the solar system?  Rocket races?  Football on the moon?  Skydiving in low gravity?  Hang-gliding on Jupiter?  The sky is not the limit.  

Watch this film for a few ideas: Wanderers - a short film by Erik Wernquist [Official Version]

Join us in our exploration of future extreme sports/science events.  Bring a parachute.

IM Vulcan Viper if you have ideas for new subjects.

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Never-ending Summer At Surfer’s Bay VIP

Are you already missing summer? Feeling nostalgic about those long, lazy days on the beach? Teleport over to Surfer’s Bay VIP and relive the magic of those long, hot days at this three sim beach estate that’s famous for its surfing - and wild parties!

With over 7,000 group members, its easy to see why Surfer’s Bay is SL’s premier beach location for adults. With a sim design influenced by the real-life island of Bali, the sims are perfect for relaxing, meeting new people in a friendly environment, surfing and photography. Members can rezz items anywhere and even set the sims as home.

Surfer’s Bay VIP hosts parties and DJ sets plus live music. There are also special events like spectacular light shows, tribute concerts and performances by the famous ‘Strokerz Girlz’. And if you like shopping, be sure to check out the range of shops that are alongside the main beach!

Every month, one male and one female member are chosen to be Bay Guy and Girl and are awarded a cash prizes and a photo shoot with our expert team of photographers. Come and relax at Surfer’s Bay VIP Estates and meet new friends from across the world at these popular and photogenic sims.

Take time out of your busy life and explore the Surfer’s Bay VIP sim alone or with friends. Our visitors can walk around the entire island and enjoy peace and quiet in the many secluded areas or snuggle up with a loved one on the adult furniture that is dotted around all three sims. Come and relax at Surfer’s Bay VIP Estates and meet new friends from across the world at these popular and photogenic sims.

Find out more at: www.surfersbaysl.com

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