Imagine scrolling through a website, eager to learn more, only to be met with walls of text in a font so decorative it resembles a secret code. Frustrating, right? Now imagine that same experience with a visual impairment or while using a screen reader. Accessibility isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about unlocking your website for everyone, regardless of ability.
Let’s talk about people. Millions of people—15% of the global population—have some form of sensory, cognitive, or physical limitation that could affect their website experience. And guess what? They’re potential customers, loyal fans, and valuable voices waiting to be heard.
It’s time to shift our mindset and prioritize inclusivity in website design. By making our websites accessible to all, we not only expand our reach but also show that we value and respect every individual who visits our site.
Accessible websites are also more likely to rank higher in search engine results, attract a wider audience, and encourage longer user sessions, ultimately boosting the website’s performance and visibility in the competitive online landscape. Ensuring that your website is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, is not only a legal requirement but also a moral imperative.
Understanding and complying with legal standards like The Accessible Canada Act and WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), which are guidelines that define how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities, not only ensure inclusivity but also protect your website from potential legal issues related to accessibility compliance.
So, how do we build bridges, not barriers? Here are some often-overlooked tips:
#1. Font Frenzy
Not all fonts are created equal. While script-like fonts might look fancy, they can be a nightmare for screen readers and people with dyslexia. Instead, opt for clear, sans-serif fonts like Arial or Helvetica. Trust me, your message will shine brighter when everyone can read it.
#2. Colour Contrast
Colour contrast is crucial for ensuring readability for all users. Make sure there is enough contrast between text and background colours to ensure that everyone can easily read the content on your site. Use tools like the WCAG colour contrast checker to ensure that your colour choices are accessible to all. Remember, inclusivity starts with design choices.
#3. Alt Text
Alt text is a simple but often overlooked aspect of web design that can make a huge difference for users with visual impairments. Make sure to include descriptive alt text for all images on your site so that screen readers can accurately describe the content to users who are unable to see the images. By taking these small steps, we can make a big impact on creating a more inclusive online experience for all users.
#4. Speaking Volumes
Text-to-speech tools are fantastic, but not everyone needs them embedded. Most modern browsers have built-in options, so focus on making your content clear, concise, and well-structured for optimal accessibility.
#5. Beyond the Basics
Accessibility isn’t just about technicalities. It’s about creating a welcoming space for everyone. Consider the following:
White space is your friend. Don’t cram too much information on a page. Give your visitors breathing room, both literally and figuratively.
Think globally and act locally. Remember to think about users who are learning English as a second language. Use clear, concise language with a Grade 4 reading level. You’ll reach a wider audience and foster inclusivity.
Professionalism matters. Even if your website is playful, keep a professional tone. This ensures clarity and avoids potentially offensive interpretation.
The Ripple Effect: How Accessibility Benefits Everyone
Remember, accessibility is an ongoing journey, not a one-time fix. You’ll want to regularly test your website with diverse users and assistive technologies. Embrace feedback, iterate, and keep learning.
Continuing to prioritize accessibility will not only help those with disabilities but also improve the overall user experience for all visitors to your website. By creating a more inclusive and user-friendly online space, you are showing a commitment to equity and diversity. Additionally, implementing accessibility features can have positive effects on your website’s search engine optimization (SEO) and overall performance.
The question is, who will you leave behind by not making your website accessible? The answer is simple: everyone. So, let’s build websites that are truly open to all, one inclusive pixel at a time.
Over to you!
Building an accessible website can seem daunting, especially for small businesses. But fear not! MYOB offers the resources you need to help you create a website that’s inclusive and welcoming to all. Are you ready to join the journey?
The holiday season is filled with joy, celebration, and relaxation. However, it can also be a time of increased stress and pressure for many businesses and their staff. With vacations, family obligations, and year-end deadlines during flu season, the holidays can take a toll on employees.
As a leader or manager, supporting and caring for your staff during this time of year is crucial. Ensuring your team feels supported and valued during the holiday season can significantly boost morale and productivity into the new year and beyond!
Here are some ways you can offer the support your staff will appreciate this time of the year.
#1. Discuss taking time off sooner rather than later.
The holiday season is a busy time for everyone, including your staff, who may have personal commitments that require them to take time off. As a result, it is a good idea to discuss time-off policies and expectations with them in advance of the holiday season. This allows everyone to plan their holidays and manage their workload accordingly. By giving them ample notice, they can make arrangements to ensure their work is taken care of while they are away. Being open and understanding about their time-off needs also helps foster a sense of trust and transparency in the workplace.
It is also important to consider the impact of time-off requests on other team members. It is essential to have clear communication regarding how their absence will affect the team’s deadlines and projects. This can prevent any last-minute stress or confusion and help distribute the workload evenly among the remaining staff members.
It would also be beneficial to set a deadline for when time-off requests must be submitted in advance so that the schedule can be adjusted accordingly. It is important to remember that maintaining a balance between employee needs and business needs is crucial to a successful and harmonious holiday season for everyone.
#2. Provide mental health support.
The holiday season can bring up a whole range of emotions for your staff. While some may be looking forward to spending quality time with their loved ones, others may be dreading uncomfortable family gatherings, or struggling with grief, financial stress, or feelings of loneliness. As a manager, it is crucial to recognize the impact of these emotions on your staff’s mental health and well-being. Encourage open communication and provide access to mental health supports such as counselling or employee assistance programs. Remind your employees that it is okay to take breaks, practice self-care, and seek help when needed.
As a manager, it is also important to lead by example and prioritize self-care during this busy time of year. Encourage your staff to take breaks, use their vacation days (if possible), and disconnect from work during the holidays. Try sharing your own self-care practices with your team and let them know that taking care of themselves emotionally is a significant part of their overall well-being. This could include exercise, mindfulness techniques, or spending time with loved ones. Remember, a healthy and happy team leads to a successful and productive workplace.
#3. Clearly state your expectations.
To ensure a smooth workflow during the holiday season, it is essential to communicate expectations to your staff. Be specific about tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the holidays. Communicate any changes in deadlines or priorities and delegate tasks accordingly. At the same time, avoid overloading your employees with extra work, and be flexible with your expectations. Remember that your employees are entitled to enjoy their holidays and recharge for the new year.
Setting clear boundaries and expectations early will also help to prevent conflicts or misunderstandings. Be sure to communicate the importance of meeting deadlines and keeping organized during this busy time. Encourage your team to plan ahead and schedule their vacation time beforehand to avoid any last-minute disruptions. Additionally, consider offering incentives or rewards for those who exceed expectations during the holiday season. This can boost morale and motivation for your staff, ensuring a successful end to the year.
#4. Show appreciation to those who work for you.
As a leader, it is important to show appreciation for your staff’s hard work and dedication throughout the year, and the holiday season is the perfect time to do so. If possible, organize a staff holiday party or a small end-of-year celebration to thank them for their efforts. Consider giving out small gifts or bonuses to show your gratitude. Your staff will feel valued and motivated to continue their hard work in the new year. One of our previous blog posts, “Do You Feel Appreciated?” shares ideas for ensuring your people feel valued and appreciated!
#5. Demonstrate respect.
As a business owner, it may be tempting to contact employees if there is a client crisis, but you should do everything you can to resist the temptation. Respect the personal time and privacy of your team members during the holiday season.
Over to You!
The holiday season can be stressful for many, and it’s important to remember that your team members are not immune to this. Taking the time to check in with them can make a big difference in their well-being. Show genuine interest in their lives outside of work and offer support if they are struggling. This demonstrates that you value them as individuals, not just as workers, and can strengthen the bond between you and your team.
A small gesture like offering flexibility in their work schedule or a thoughtful gift can also go a long way in making them feel appreciated and motivated during this busy time of year. After all, a happy and supported team will lead to better productivity and success for your organization.
December is here and London has everything you need to support local and delight everyone on your gift list. We’re back again this year to share some of our favourite local spots and this year our list is bigger than ever before!
For the One Who is Hard to Buy For
Meet us at The Market at Western Fair District in the heart of Old East Village! They are open on Saturdays & Sundays. When we say this place has everything – we mean it! The vendors here offer locally made clothes, delicious food and treats, artisanal cheese for your holiday gathering, stunning art, books, records, jewellery and even something for your furry family members. https://themarketwfd.com/
Locally Made Marketplace has made it onto our list every year! They are the ultimate local-lover destination. This unique London shop is full of quality merchandise, handmade from local vendors. You can find something for anyone on your list. https://www.locallymademarketplace.ca/
Thoughtfull Gifts is a great choice for that person that is tricky to buy for. Our former team member, Jenny Baxter, curates thought-filled gift baskets on any budget. You can find examples of her brilliant creations on Instagram (@thoughtfull.gifts)
For the Health Enthusiast
Forge Fitness Studio – owned and operated by Personal Trainer, Mandy Rust – offers a semi-private studio in south London for your athletic loved one to train. They offer flexible monthly session packages and high-end equipment! Check them out on Instagram – @forge.fitnessstudio – to find out how you can share the gift of fitness with your loved one!
Kaizen Personal Training embodies continuous small changes resulting in major improvements. Whether your friends and family want to try a drop-in class, or a 10-session package at this gym in Byron, Kaizen has options for you. https://kaizenpersonaltraining.com/
Nuga Best Canada East offers holistic products that help your body heal itself. Their products use non-invasive patented technology to relieve pain in your body. The N5 Massage Bed, T20P Heating Mat or E5 Massager would make a great gift for anyone looking to relieve pain and discomfort. https://nugabestcanada.com/
For the Food Lover
Buzwump Bakery offers sweet treats! Shari graduated from Fanshawe College for Baking and Pastry Arts Management. No time for Christmas baking? Ask about her plate of delicious cookies and give a gift to yourself! Of course, there are pies, cakes for every occasion and custom orders available to gift your favourite people. You can find Buzwump Bakery every Saturday at Trail’s End. Other days you can call or email: https://buzwumpbakery.ca/
DoughEV is a new donut shop that opened in London this past summer. Support this budding small business by stopping in for a donut and coffee during your holiday shopping or grab a gift certificate for your favourite sweet-toothed friend. Visit them at 621 Dundas Street. https://doughev.com/
Mamasim offers both meal support and catering for holiday gatherings or any other occasion. Check out their Instagram for the most mouth-watering meal options! A Mamasim gift certificate is on some of our loved ones’ lists this year! https://mamasim.ca/
Oh Bombay! is one of our favourite new places to eat. Experience the flavour explosion of authentic Indian cuisine for yourself! Local owner, Aman welcomes you to dine-in for your holiday party, enjoy delicious catering options, or purchase a gift certificate. Located at 631 Commissioners Road East in London. https://www.ohbombay.ca/locations/london/
The Hot Sauce Co. is London’s very own high-quality hot sauce makers. They create small-batch hot sauces made with quality ingredients and bottled in-house. Check out their flavours here – https://thehotsauceco.com/
We also encourage you to support any local restaurant that you love! Celebrate the holidays by planning your gatherings, or pick up a gift certificate for your favourite foodie!
For the Book Lover
Good Apparel Co. has a brand-new line for book lovers! New designs featuring the “Coffee and Cats Book Club”, and sweaters that don “one more chapter” recently launched and are ready for purchase for your book-loving loved one – https://www.goodapparel.ca/
Support your favourite local author! Did you know that you can support your favourite local author – even by shopping at a bigger store like Indigo or Amazon? Pre-ordering their upcoming work, ordering their existing work, or requesting their books at your local library and small bookstores also supports them. London has some wonderful small bookstores like Attic Books or Bread & Roses Books for you to visit and a great deal of talented authors! Emily recently pre-ordered Londoner (and friend) Laura Bontje’s debut children’s book, Was It a Cat I Saw?
For the Movie Lover
Do you have a film lover in your life? Make a donation in their name to the Forest City Film Festival! They also offer a Film Society membership which offers great deals during the festival itself. https://fcff.ca/
London’s only marquee theatre – Hyland Cinema – recently spoke to CTV about the very real concerns they may have to close. Take your movie-lover for an experience gift. Pick a showtime and take them on a classic movie adventure! Want something to wrap and place under the tree? The Hyland also has a great gift shop and offers gift certificates as well.
Jumbo Video/Microplay is the locally owned epicentre for movie fanatics. You can find movies, board games, video games, and all sorts of cinematic collectibles all under one roof. Grab some fresh-made popcorn and a movie rental while you’re there! Located at 1080 Adelaide St. in London. https://jumbovideomicroplay.com/
For the One Who Could Use a Little Pampering
Is there someone on your list who loves a warm bath? Belle of the Bomb has an array of choices to turn every bath into heavenly relaxation. Shop online, or find these bath bombs and other body products at Duck & Dodo.
One of Karen’s favourite jewelry designers is Lori Schmidke of Klas squared. Her designs are unique, high quality and expertly made. Choose a stunning piece for your loved one or purchase one of their gift certificates to make the women in your life feel powerful and feminine. https://shop.klassquared.com/
Sandy Weatherhead is an RMT in nearby Komoka. She takes a human-centred approach to massage and is ready to relieve your loved one’s achy muscles. Check out her Facebook page for details on how to book.
Can you believe the holiday season is here already? It catches me by surprise every year. What’s not to love about this time of year, though? It’s a time of celebration, gift-giving, and festivities.
For businesses, this period before the holidays presents a prime opportunity to boost sales and engage with customers. However, with countless brands vying for a shopper’s attention, holiday marketing can become overwhelming. To stand out from the crowd and avoid holiday fatigue, it is essential to adopt effective strategies and consider the buyer’s perspective. Here are some tips and techniques to strengthen your holiday marketing efforts while being considerate of the holiday-weary customer.
#1. Plan Early and Strategically
The first step to a successful holiday marketing campaign is early planning. Start brainstorming and crafting your strategy well in advance, preferably several months before the holiday season begins. By planning ahead, you have time to create a cohesive and well-thought-out marketing plan that resonates with your target audience.
Not only does early planning give you time to craft a well-developed strategy, but it also allows for testing and adjustments. By starting early, you can test out different ideas and see what works best for your brand. This can save you time and money in the long run as you can make changes and improve your strategy before the holiday rush begins. Plus, with more time on your side, you can fine-tune your message and promotional materials to really capture the attention of potential customers.
Haven’t started planning yet? Don’t worry! These next few tips will help you still have a successful marketing season!
#2. Understand Your Audience
It’s essential to know your audience if you want to stand out during the holidays. Take time to understand their preferences, behaviours, and pain points so you can tailor your marketing messages to address their specific needs and shopping preferences. Personalization and relevance are crucial in making your brand memorable.
#3. Create Unique Content
Set yourself apart by crafting unique and engaging content. Develop content that tells a story, connects emotionally with the holiday spirit, and offers value to your audience. Utilize a variety of content formats like videos, infographics, image, and blog posts to capture the attention of different parts of your audience.
#4. Use Social Proof
Leverage the power of social proof to strengthen your holiday marketing. Display testimonials, reviews, and user-generated content that highlight the positive experiences of previous customers. Trustworthy endorsements can instill confidence in potential buyers and make your brand more credible.
#5. Offer Exclusive Promotions
Create a sense of urgency and excitement by introducing special holiday offers. Limited-time discounts, bundled packages, and loyalty rewards can attract and retain your customer base. Make sure to promote these offers across all your marketing channels.
The holiday season is the perfect time to show your customers how much you appreciate them. Consider offering exclusive seasonal promotions and personalized gifts to add a personal touch to your offers. Take advantage of the festive spirit and create a positive and joyful atmosphere for your customers. Spread joy and appreciation by emphasizing the significance they bring to your business and by reminding them of the fantastic offers awaiting them during this holiday season.
#6. Diversify Marketing Channels
Avoid relying on a single marketing channel to reach your audience. Instead, consider diversifying your approach. Email marketing, social media, content marketing, and online advertising, for example, will help you share your brand with more people. Each channel serves a unique purpose, and a multi-channel approach can maximize your reach.
#7. Be Mindful of Holiday Fatigue
‘Tis the season to be jolly – but also a bit overwhelmed with all the holiday marketing! Fear not, there’s a solution: spice up your promotions with these tips!
Gradual Build-Up: Start easing your customers into their holiday spirit by commencing your marketing gradually. Avoid overwhelming them with constant holiday-themed content from early November. Create Valuable Content: Make your holiday content stand out by not only promoting sales, but also providing meaningful value to your audience. Serve up helpful holiday tips, creative DIY ideas, and inspiring stories that will captivate them. Segment Your Email List: Not all customers want to see holiday promotions right away. Segment your email list and send holiday-related content to those who have shown interest in the past. Create a Sense of Exclusivity: Develop a sense of exclusivity with early access to holiday deals or special promotions for your loyal customers. This approach can engage and reward your most dedicated clientele.
Over to You
Holiday marketing can be a great chance to connect with your audience and increase sales. To stand out and avoid overwhelming your audience, plan carefully, know your customers, make unique content, and use various channels. Most importantly, consider your customers’ needs and provide valuable content. This way, your holiday marketing will engage your audience and make a positive impact.
At MYOB, we have experience and expertise in managing social media and creating content. We can bring all your marketing campaigns to life, no matter what time of the year. Are you ready to learn more about what we can do for your organization? Contact us today!
Do you know what the internet is saying about you? Your online presence can be just as powerful as the words you say. Your digital footprint can significantly affect your reputation and success, whether you’re an individual or a business. As such, it’s critical to understand and monitor your digital footprint to ensure it accurately reflects the image you wish to present to the world.
Fortunately, it is never too late to start managing your online presence. Taking the time to cultivate a reputable digital footprint can help you achieve your personal and professional goals. It is important to remember that everything we post on the internet is permanent. By being mindful of what you post, you can create an online presence that reflects your best self and builds a positive reputation.
Here are eight things to consider as you grow your digital footprint and online presence.
#1. Do You Know What Your Digital Footprint Is Saying About You/Your Business?
Your digital footprint is the trail of information you leave behind as you interact with the internet. It includes everything from your social media profiles to your website and online reviews. But do you know what it’s saying about you or your business? Is it sending the right message? To find out, start by Googling yourself or your business.
#2. Who Does the Internet Say You/Your Business Are?
What do you find when you search for yourself or your company online? Are the search results accurate and positive, or are there misleading or outdated information? The internet’s perception of you or your business can shape the opinions of potential customers or staff. Overt personal opinions expressed online could create problems for you in the future.
#3. Would We Be Able to Find Your Birthday and Other Personal Information?
Are you feeling like your privacy is being invaded in our digital world? It can seem like your personal information is always just a few clicks away online. Luckily, there are steps you can take to protect your privacy and keep your data secure. Does a quick search reveal your birthday, where you went to school, your marital status, or even your personal preferences for music and movies? It’s essential to be mindful of the personal information you share online and to review your privacy settings regularly.
#4. SEO – Why Ranking Highly on Google Is So Important in Business
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) plays a vital role in your business’s online reputation. When potential customers look for the products or services your business offers, you’re going to want your website to show up at the top of the search results — the higher your Google rankings, the easier it is for people to find you online, which can lead to increased visibility and revenue.
#5. Do You Have Google Reviews?
Online reviews can heavily influence potential clients during their decision-making process. Do you have Google reviews for your business? Are they recent and positive, or do they need attention? You’ll want to monitor and respond to reviews regularly to build trust with your audience. After a positive customer experience, ask that customer if they would post a review for you.
#6. Do You Have Old Photos/Videos That Need to Be Updated or Removed?
Your online presence should reflect the current look of you or your business. If you have outdated photos or videos on your social platforms and website that are no longer relevant, it’s time to update or remove them. Old content can create confusion and give the impression of neglect or inactivity.
#7. Is Your Online Information Fresh, Current, and Up to Date?
Are you looking to make a great impression with potential clients? Accuracy is essential for your brand’s online success. Take the time to regularly check to ensure information about your business, such as operating hours, contact details, and addresses, is current and up to date.
Also, check that your website is up-to-date and displays the current year in the footer. An outdated online presence can give the impression of neglect or disinterest, leading to lost opportunities and customer frustration. On the other hand, keeping things fresh shows you’re actively maintaining your online presence.
Remember this: Your website and social media profiles are digital storefronts, and you should update and refresh them often to pique interest and keep visitors engaged. Posting fresh content and interacting with your audience demonstrates activity and engagement.
#8. When Was the Last Time You Posted on Social Media?
Consistency is key in the online world. A sporadic posting schedule can leave visitors wondering if you’re still in business. One way to stay active on social media is to create a content calendar and stick to a regular posting schedule. Doing so is a great way to maintain a professional online presence. If you need help with this, our social media team has years of experience!
Over to You.
As you can see, your online identity and digital footprint are valuable assets that require careful management. At MYOB, we understand the significance of keeping consistency with branding online. We begin by conducting an audit of existing channels before creating a new strategy with our clients while taking the time to review their digital footprints. If necessary, we invest in improving their online presence. The internet has a lot to say about you or your business, and it is essential to ensure that it is saying the right things.
As a business owner, you probably already know that acquiring new clients is essential, but retaining your current clientele is equally important — if not more so. As such, customer retention strategies are a must-have for fostering loyalty and ensuring repeat business.
By focusing on building solid relationships with existing customers, organizations can enjoy benefits such as continued support and referrals. Before discussing ways to enhance customer loyalty and increase the likelihood of repeat business, it’s a good idea to recognize the value of nurturing relationships with your current customers.
Understanding the Significance of Customer Retention
Customer retention refers to keeping existing customers engaged and satisfied to ensure they continue to choose your products or services over those of your competitors.
There are several reasons why customer retention is crucial for business success. First, retaining existing customers is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. It is estimated that acquiring a new customer can cost five times more than sustaining an existing one.
Secondly, loyal customers are more likely to recommend your brand to others, leading to positive word-of-mouth marketing and potential new customers. Additionally, customer retention allows businesses to build long-term relationships with their customers, which leads to increased trust and loyalty over time.
Effective Customer Retention Strategies
In this ever-changing landscape of doing business, where customer choices abound, implementing effective customer retention strategies is the cornerstone of building enduring relationships and fostering unwavering loyalty. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started:
#1. Personalized Communication: Remember – customers are real people and should be treated as individuals rather than account numbers. Send tailored emails, offers, and suggestions based on their preferences and previous interactions.
#2. Exceptional Customer Service:Quick and courteous customer service goes a long way. Respond to issues and inquiries as soon as possible. This is a perfect way to show customers how much you respect their time and concerns.
#3. Loyalty Programs: Implement loyalty programs that reward customers for their repeat business. These can include discounts, exclusive offers, or even a points-based system that leads to special perks.
#4. Regular Engagement: Stay connected with your customers through various channels, such as social media, newsletters, and blogs. Provide valuable content that keeps them informed and engaged.
#5. Quality Products and Services: The foundation of customer retention is delivering consistent quality. Your products/services should meet or exceed customer expectations, ensuring their satisfaction.
#6. Feedback and Improvement: Seek out client input and use it to improve your offers. Customers will feel more connected to your brand if they perceive that their ideas are acknowledged and contribute to improvements.
#7. “Surprise and Delight”: Consider surprising your customers with unexpected incentives or presents every so often. Doing so can foster a favourable emotional connection and make them feel valued.
#8. Community Building: Create a sense of belonging by building a community around your brand. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways, such as social media groups, online forums, or even in-person events that bring your customers together.
#9. Stay Relevant: Keep a watchful eye on what is trending within your industry. Then, be sure to consistently adapt your products or services to satisfy the ever-changing requirements of your customers. Providing them with what they need – when they need it – will go a long way toward developing their loyalty and repeat business.
Over to you
As you can see, achieving and maintaining customer retention is a cornerstone of business success. Even better? It’s fairly easy to foster loyalty, encourage repeat business, and turn satisfied customers into brand advocates. Remember that in the long run, it’s not just about making sales; it’s about building meaningful relationships that stand the test of time.
