For entrepreneurs and business owners, keeping your technology up-to-date is a big part of maintaining a competitive edge. Today, you have a unique opportunity to upgrade to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $22.97 (reg. $199)—but only for one day.

This latest version of Windows offers a host of new features designed to make your business run smoother, faster, and more securely. Wondering why exactly you should upgrade to Windows 11 Pro?

Modern user interface: Windows 11 Pro introduces a sleek, modern user interface that is not only visually appealing but also designed to improve user experience. The enhanced UI provides easier navigation and access to the tools you use most, making your daily tasks more efficient and enjoyable.

Enhanced multitasking capabilities: If you’re someone who juggles multiple tasks, Windows 11 Pro has you covered with improved multitasking features like snapping windows and virtual desktops. These tools allow you to easily organize your workspace, keep track of multiple projects, and easily switch between tasks.

Advanced security for peace of mind: Security is always a top concern, especially for entrepreneurs managing sensitive business data. Windows 11 Pro includes advanced security features such as biometric login, TPM 2.0, Smart App Control, and BitLocker encryption, ensuring that your information is well-protected against modern threats.

AI-powered productivity: One of the most-used features of Windows 11 Pro is its AI integration. With the new Copilot feature, you get AI-driven assistance that helps you navigate the system more efficiently, find what you need faster, and even suggest ways to improve productivity. Whether it’s voice typing, enhanced search functions, or snap layouts, AI can help streamline your workflow and make your day more productive.

Don’t miss this limited-time offer on the most modern Windows OS on the market.

Get Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $22.97 (reg. $199) only through August 25 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

For entrepreneurs, efficient data management and quick access to important files are crucial for staying productive and competitive. Whether you’re managing large files, moving data between devices, or ensuring your data is securely stored, having the right tools can really make all the difference.

This high-performance Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 High-Speed Flash Drive offers everything a busy professional needs: versatility, speed, durability, and ample storage capacity. It’s currently on sale for just $74.97 (reg. $109), but only through September 3.

Versatility across all of your devices.

One of the biggest challenges in today’s multi-device world is finding storage solutions that work seamlessly across different platforms. The Dual USB-C + USB-A Flash Drive solves this problem with its unique dual interface.

Whether you’re using a PC, Mac, Android smartphone, or tablet, this flash drive offers compatibility with a wide range of devices. No more searching for the right adapter—simply plug in and transfer your data effortlessly between devices.

Speed that saves time.

When you’re managing a business, every second counts. The flash drive is designed with speed in mind, delivering fast 20-30MB/S read and write speeds that make data transfer a breeze.

Regardless of whether you’re backing up important documents, transferring high-resolution videos, or working with large datasets, this flash drive allows your data to be moved quickly and efficiently. With less time spent waiting on file transfers, you can focus on other important parts of your day.

Ample storage capacity.

With 1TB of storage, this flash drive offers more than enough room to store your essential files, whether they’re complex spreadsheets, multimedia presentations, or entire project portfolios. Having this much capacity in such a portable device means you can carry all your essential data with you, no matter where your business takes you.

With its dual interface, lightning-fast speeds, durable design, and ample 1TB capacity, it’s a wise investment to help you manage your data more efficiently.

Don’t miss this Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 High-Speed Flash Drive while it’s on sale for just $74.97 (reg. $109), but only through September 3.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) sued RealPage on Friday after a two-year investigation that included an unannounced FBI raid of a national corporate landlord. The DOJ alleged that Richardson, Texas-based RealPage, which sells real estate software, decreased competition among landlords and artificially inflated rents for millions of tenants across the country.

“We allege that RealPage’s pricing algorithm enables landlords to share confidential, competitively sensitive information and align their rents,” attorney general Merrick B. Garland stated in a press release.

The DOJ filed the 115-page complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina on Friday. The antitrust lawsuit details how RealPage signed contracts with landlords who would otherwise be competitors and collected sensitive, detailed information about rent prices, lease terms, amenities and occupancy rates.

RealPage then allegedly fed the information to its AI-driven algorithm, which gave landlords recommendations on how to price rentals and set terms for rental agreements. The DOJ also accused the company of ensuring landlords accepted its recommendations by sending out pricing advisors to meet with them for “accountability conversations” and adding an “auto accept” feature so landlords would automatically approve price increases.

In 2020, RealPage said its software collected data on 16 million rental units of the 22 million investment-grade apartment units in the U.S., indicating its broad reach.

^{U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland (C), U.S. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco (L) and U.S. Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin Mizer (R). Photo Credit: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images}

“As Americans struggle to afford housing, RealPage is making it easier for landlords to coordinate to increase rents,” assistant attorney general Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division stated, adding that “competition – not RealPage – should determine what Americans pay to rent their homes.”

The DOJ filed the lawsuit with the attorneys general of North Carolina, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, Oregon, Tennessee and Washington. State attorneys general for Arizona and Washington, D.C., have already taken legal action against RealPage this year.

Related: State Attorneys General Sue RealPage, Landlords Over ‘Astronomical’ Rent Hikes: ‘This Was Not A Fair Market At Work’

In a statement, RealPage said the DOJ’s claims were “devoid of merit” and “will do nothing to make housing more affordable.” The lawsuit “seeks to scapegoat pro-competitive technology,” the company claimed.

The non-partisan nonprofit American Economic Liberties Project (AELP) took a different stance. In an emailed statement to Entrepreneur, AELP senior legal counsel Lee Hepner pointed to RealPage’s own marketing, highlighted by the DOJ, which stated that the company took “every possible opportunity” to raise prices.

“Working people have enough problems affording daily necessities without RealPage bragging that it seizes ‘every possible opportunity’ to increase rents,” Hepner stated.

Related: This Simple Money Formula Helped Me Escape My 9-5 and Find Financial Freedom

No matter who you are and what your field is, data is everything these days. From critical business documents to precious family memories, your files deserve the best protection and accessibility. That’s why this offer for lifetime access to 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage is something every business owner (or avid family photographer) should consider.

For a limited time, you can get an extra $40 off with code Koofr at checkout and pay the one-time price of just $119.97 (reg. $810). Not sure what 1TB means in reality? It translates to around 200,000 pictures or a million documents. And unlike other cloud storage services that require ongoing payments, Koofr offers a lifetime subscription for this one price.

Koofr’s built-in Duplicate Finder helps you identify and remove duplicate files within your storage. This tool ensures you use your storage space efficiently, eliminating unnecessary clutter. The advanced file management feature also empowers you to organize and access your files for a more streamlined experience.

In an era where data privacy is a growing concern, Koofr offers a refreshing approach. It says it is the only cloud storage provider that does not track user activities, giving you peace of mind that your data and actions remain private. For privacy-conscious individuals, this is a significant advantage that sets Koofr apart from other cloud storage providers.

This cloud storage solution also goes beyond traditional service by allowing users to connect and access files from existing cloud accounts like Dropbox, Google Drive, Amazon, and OneDrive. This integration provides centralized access to all your files across multiple platforms, making it easier to manage your data from one convenient location.

Koofr has earned a stellar reputation for reliability and performance. With 4.3/5 stars on Trustpilot, you can trust Koofr to protect your valuable data.

Get lifetime access to 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage for just $119.97 when you use the code KOOFR at checkout through September 3.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Running a small business is no small feat. As a business owner, you’re not just wearing one hat—you’re wearing all of them. You’re the HR department, the payroll processor, the scheduler, and often the team motivator. It’s a lot of work that’s bound to be stressful. Each day brings a new challenge, whether it’s dealing with last-minute schedule changes, tracking employee hours, or ensuring payroll is accurate and on time, and it’s all on your shoulders. It’s a small wonder that 20% of new business owners quit in their first year.

Managing these tasks manually can quickly become overwhelming, leaving little room for focusing on what truly matters: growing your business, supporting your team, and supporting yourself. It’s why more than half of all business owners end up working more than 50 hours a week.

Scheduling is one of the most complex puzzles you have to solve. It’s the much-maligned gritty everyday task of an entrepreneur, but it’s also one of your most direct ways of supporting and managing your team and your time. Spreadsheets and paper schedules might work at first, but as your team grows, so does the chaos.

Tracking employee hours is another time-consuming task. If you rely on paper timesheets or old-fashioned punch clocks, mistakes are bound to happen, leading to payroll discrepancies that frustrate your employees and eat into your profits.

Communication within your team is yet another hurdle. With everyone juggling different schedules and responsibilities, keeping everyone informed and engaged is easier said than done. Group texts and emails can easily get lost in the shuffle, especially when you’re trying to communicate important updates to a team that’s always on the move.

It’s in the face of these daily challenges that many small business owners begin to seek out solutions—tools that can simplify their workload and give them back some of the time they desperately need. That’s where Homebase steps up to bat. Designed specifically for small businesses, Homebase addresses these pain points by bringing everything you need to manage your team into one intuitive app.

What does Homebase do?

Homebase is designed to tackle the everyday challenges that small business owners face, turning what can often feel like an overwhelming workload into a streamlined, manageable process that still leaves you plenty of room for your own individual management style.

Simplified Scheduling

Homebase centralizes scheduling, allowing you to build, adjust, and share schedules effortlessly. It also handles shift swaps and time-off requests, keeping everyone informed and reducing last-minute chaos.

Accurate Time Tracking

Turn any device into a time clock with Homebase, which automatically tracks hours, breaks, and overtime for smoother payroll processing and fewer errors.

Streamlined Payroll

Homebase automates payroll by converting timesheets into wages and taxes, handling direct deposits, and filing taxes, saving you time and ensuring timely, accurate payments.

Efficient Team Communication

Homebase unifies team communication, making it easy to send messages, share updates, and set reminders—all in one place, fostering a connected, efficient workforce.

Enhanced Employee Management

Beyond scheduling and payroll, Homebase supports hiring, onboarding, and performance tracking while offering perks like early wage access and financial planning tools.

Compliance and HR Support

Homebase simplifies compliance with labor laws, providing HR tools and access to certified advisors to help manage regulatory requirements and protect your business.

In essence, Homebase is designed to put routine tasks on autopilot, allowing you to focus on what really matters: growing your business and supporting your team. And with less time spent on administrative tasks, you can get back to doing what you love: running your business, watching it thrive, and going home at a reasonable hour. That’s why it’s worth it to sign up for a 14-day trial at joinhomebase.com.

Running a business requires keeping a close eye on expenses, and finding ways to save without compromising on quality is key. That’s where BJ’s Wholesale Club can be helpful. For just $20, you can secure a 1-Year BJ’s Wholesale Club Card Membership with BJ’s Easy Renewal® (terms apply*). Members get access to exclusive savings on everything from office supplies to food and even gas.

A BJ’s membership opens the door to significant savings on a wide range of products every business needs. Whether it’s stocking up on office supplies, keeping the break room filled with snacks and beverages, or finding quality ingredients for catering, BJ’s can be of service. With an up to 25% savings over grocery store prices every day, your budget will stretch further than ever before.

Fueling your business vehicles is another area where you can save big. BJ’s members enjoy exclusive discounts at BJ’s gas stations, helping you reduce one of the most significant operating costs. With BJ’s members-only gas prices, those savings add up quickly, making a tangible difference in your bottom line.

BJ’s also offers a variety of shopping conveniences designed to make your life easier. For instance, with ExpressPay, you can skip the line in-club by scanning items as you shop and paying directly through the BJ’s mobile app. If you’re pressed for time, take advantage of Curbside Pickup, BOPIC (Buy Online, Pick Up In Club), or same-day delivery, ensuring you get what you need without missing a beat.

For entrepreneurs and small-business owners, every dollar counts. A $20 BJ’s Wholesale Club Card Membership is a wise investment that gives you access to savings on essential products and services your business relies on.

Get a 1-Year BJ’s Wholesale Club Card Membership with BJ’s Easy Renewal® (terms apply*) for $20 (reg. $55) for a limited time only.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

The newest iPhones could go on sale in less than a month.

Apple is planning the launch of its next generation of iPhones, AirPods and Apple Watches on Tuesday, September 10, according to a Friday report from Bloomberg chief correspondent Mark Gurman. The phones will reportedly go on sale on September 20.

The key difference between the iPhone 15 introduced last year and the new generation expected in September is Apple Intelligence, a host of AI tools that upgrade Siri, allow the voice assistant to directly access third-party AI like ChatGPT and add AI-generated emojis, among other features.

Related: Morgan Stanley Analysts Named Apple a Top Pick Stock and Doubled Their iPhone Expectations — Here’s Why

Apple introduced its specially branded AI in June. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will get Apple Intelligence in the fall, and the iPhone 16 lineup is expected to follow suit.

The latest iPhones will also have bigger screens for Pro models and enhanced camera features, per the Bloomberg report. Apple will also upgrade AirPods and Apple Watches at the event.
^{Apple CEO Tim Cook. Photographer: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images}

Analysts have predicted that this fall could be a lucrative upgrade cycle for Apple — it could be even bigger than when the iPhone 12 came out in 2020 with 5G as a selling point. iPhone 12 sales reached 100 million within seven months.

AI is “more compelling than anything we’ve seen since,” analyst Gil Luria of D.A. Davidson told Reuters.

Morgan Stanley analysts named Apple a top-pick stock in July, calling Apple Intelligence a “clear catalyst” for current iPhone users to upgrade.

Related: Apple’s AI Has a Catch — And It Could Help Boost Sale

Successfully marketing your own business or a client’s business means embracing a lifelong journey of learning and staying abreast of the latest trends in marketing communications and public relations. But with this learning comes the challenge of navigating a deluge of expert advice. We’ve all encountered those anxiety-inducing headlines that grip us with urgency: “Worst Days of the Week to Post on Social Media,” “Why You Should NEVER Pick Up the Phone When Pitching,” “Top 5 Things Journalists Don’t Want in a Pitch,” “Follow This Word Count for a Successful Blog.”

In today’s modern world of social media and online news, everyone seems to be an expert with an opinion. However, it’s crucial to recognize that not all advice is valuable, and discerning marketing professionals must carefully evaluate what truly applies to their unique situations.

Take, for instance, the countless articles advising on the best days of the week to post on social media. New articles crop up regularly, each presenting new surveys and research. Yet, these articles often contain conflicting information and are based on data collected from tens of thousands of businesses.

For example, HubSpot released an article on the best days to post in 2024, based on a survey of 30,000 businesses, suggesting that Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are ideal. But what if your business thrives on weekends? A restaurant, for instance, might find it advantageous to post early in the day on Saturday when its audience is planning their weekend activities.

Related: Don’t Fall for These 3 Marketing Myths — Here’s What to Do Instead

Another example comes from an article my team recently encountered, which advised against ever picking up the phone when pitching a journalist. The word “never” is a strong one, and in this case, it isn’t sound advice. In our extensive experience in marketing and PR, we’ve often found that there are compelling reasons to pick up the phone. Media relations are, after all, about building relationships. Over time, we cultivate relationships with journalists who appreciate a phone call or text.

Additionally, in local broadcast pitching, sending a news release via email and following up with a phone call has resulted in successful media pickups. News directors have expressed their gratitude for the reminder, leading to media coverage that might not have occurred otherwise. The lesson here is clear: While not always necessary, picking up the phone can be crucial in certain situations.

These examples highlight a recurring theme: Expert insights are valuable, but discerning marketers must sift through the noise to find advice that genuinely applies to their unique circumstances.

What does it mean to be discerning about marketing advice?

Trust your own data: Don’t prioritize third-party data over your own. Social media platforms and analytics tools can provide insights into when your audience is most active and engaged. Google Analytics can reveal which blog lengths drive clicks and boost search results. Often, you hold the key to what works best for your unique industry, business or client. Your data is a treasure trove of insights that can guide your marketing strategy.

Value your experience and expertise: If you’ve been working on marketing for your business or client for some time, trust your instincts and experience. You likely already know what drives the best results. Don’t discount that knowledge! If calling certain media contacts has proven successful, continue doing so, regardless of what some expert says. Your experience is an invaluable asset that can lead to better outcomes.

Recognize your business’s uniqueness: What works for one industry or business model may not work for another. Consider a business insurance company for tech startups; its audience differs significantly from that of a dog toy retailer. The insurance company may find success with longer, in-depth blog posts for its audience of PhDs and MBAs, while the dog toy retailer may achieve better results with shorter, entertaining posts. Tailor your strategies to suit your specific audience and niche.

Evaluate the source of advice: Consider who is providing the advice and whether they are credible. Ask yourself if you trust this person and their sources. Bad advice can lead to damaging outcomes. Ensure the advice you follow is relevant and applicable to your situation. Seek out thought leaders with proven expertise and a track record of success. Question the motives behind the advice, as some experts may have hidden agendas or conflicts of interest that could influence their recommendations. Cross-reference multiple sources to gain a well-rounded perspective and avoid relying on a single viewpoint.

Related: The Worst Advice I Ever Received

A better, data-driven approach to generic advice

We touched on the importance of not prioritizing others’ data over your own — but this topic deserves deeper exploration. Data, metrics and measurement are the foundation of effective, results-driven marketing and PR. Data provides clarity and is beyond dispute. All marketing activities should have measurable, data-driven goals.

Data offers excellent insights when making decisions and can be applied to nearly any marketing dilemma. Should your Facebook posts be longer or more concise? A/B test and analyze the data. Are you using the right tactics when pitching media? Review your strategies across pitches to determine which ones yield the most placements. Should your YouTube videos be 10 minutes long or 20? Examine watch time data to see how many users watch the entire 20-minute video. Data is your decision-making ally.

Related: How to Collect Digital Marketing Data in 5 Easy Steps

Advice from others has undeniable value. It’s essential for professional growth to stay informed about industry trends and learn from other professionals. However, discernment is key. As you absorb advice, insights and research, filter this knowledge to determine whether it makes sense for your business or client. Use robust measurement tools to assess your own findings. Let your data be your guide, and remember that while advice can be helpful, ultimately, the success of your marketing efforts relies on your ability to tailor strategies to your specific needs.

Excel is the unsung hero of the business world, a versatile software that serves as the backbone of countless operations. It’s where numbers come to life, trends emerge, and informed decisions are born. Whether you’re crunching sales figures, managing budgets, or analyzing market data, Excel is a go-to tool that can adapt to your business needs.

If you’re looking to gain more Excel knowledge for your business, this might be an offer worth a closer look. For a limited time, you can pick up the 2024 Ultimate Microsoft Excel Training Bundle for just $29.97 (reg. $399).

A deep understanding of Excel can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs. It empowers you to make data-driven decisions, streamline operations, and identify new opportunities. With Excel mastery, you can forecast trends, optimize pricing, and track key performance indicators (KPIs) with precision. This translates to increased efficiency, cost savings, and, ultimately, higher profits.

This learning bundle is ideal for busy business leaders who don’t have time for traditional classroom courses. It features 16 multi-lesson courses totaling more than 98 hours of coursework, covering everything from beginner basics to advanced techniques.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to refine your skills or a complete novice eager to learn, this bundle has something for everyone. Dive into PivotTables, Power Pivot, Power Query, and DAX to unlock the power of data analysis. Master VBA and macros to automate tasks and save time. Explore advanced formulas, financial modeling, and business analytics to gain a competitive edge.

Possibly the best part of all is that this training bundle is available for a limited time at the super affordable price of just $29.97—a fraction of its original cost of $399.

Don’t miss this opportunity to supercharge your business with Excel expertise gained from the 2024 Ultimate Microsoft Excel Training Bundle while it’s just $29.97 (reg. $399) through September 3.

StackSocial prices subject to change.