Latest news with #VerizonBusiness
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SMBs rely heavily on social media for marketing and growth, study says
This story was originally published on Marketing Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Marketing Dive newsletter. Most small businesses continue to look to social media to help them drive their business growth, even though the medium presents content and strategic challenges, according to new research from Verizon Business and Morning Consult. In the firms' sixth annual State of Small Business Survey, more than three-quarters of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) agree that social media positively impacts their business performance. At the same time, more than half (54%) admit struggling to keep their content fresh and stay up to date with social media trends. To help, many of them are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for assistance. Per the survey, 28% of SMBs use AI for their marketing and social media efforts, and 24% use technology to assist their written communications. Verizon and Morning Consult's research indicates that, nearly two decades in, social media remains a critical component of small- and medium-sized business strategy. According to the research, most of these companies are using social media to offer sales and deals on products and services that will appeal to new customers or to increase customer engagement and increase online traffic. The survey queried decision makers at 600 small to midsize businesses (defined as less than 500 employees) in March 2025. Facebook is the most popular platform, with 82% of respondents using the social media network to promote products and connect with customers. Forty percent are using social media 'storefronts' or 'shops' to sell directly to consumers. Only 71% of respondents were using Instagram, and 69% were using YouTube. More than half (58%) of the SMBs are on TikTok. Nearly three-quarters (73%) said they plan to expand their presence to other social media platforms over the next year. Unsurprisingly, the reliance on social media has increased content needs. More than 60% of SMB decision makers either began creating content or increased their investment in content creation over the last year. Seventy-one percent have an in-house department or have staff dedicated to creating content for social media. Still, feeding the content beast remains a challenge. More than half (54%) said they struggle to keep up with their content needs across multiple social media channels and platforms, and 54% said they struggle to keep the content fresh and keep up with social media trends. To keep up, many have used, or are considering using, artificial intelligence. According to the survey, 71% of respondents said they are using or would consider using AI for their social media and marketing, and 64% said they would use it for their written communications. Other usages included inventory management (69%), data management (68%), product or service recommendations (68%) and customer service (68%). Recommended Reading Marketing to social media users in 2025: Here's what the numbers say
Forbes
22-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Most Small Businesses Make Content as TikTok Ban Looms
Small businesses report big gains from creating their own content Small businesses are figuring out you can't go viral if you stay invisible. Verizon Business teamed up with Morning Consult for its sixth annual State of Small Business survey, released May 20. In March, researchers spoke to 600 small and midsize business leaders nationwide, covering industries from restaurants to construction. All ran companies with 500 or fewer employees. Among the findings, the survey showed that small businesses understand that content matters. Only 19% of businesses said they don't produce any content at all, and just 8% said they have no intention to start. More than 60% either began creating their own media or boosted their budgets for it in the past year. Facebook still dominates as the favorite platform, with 82% of businesses active there, with Instagram in second place with 71% of respondents saying they use the platform. YouTube usage jumped past LinkedIn into third place. Short video platform TikTok rounded out the top five with a 58% usage rate, up 1% from the year prior. (Join us for a live in-depth discussion with audience Q&A on What's Next For U.S. Small Businesses And Entrepreneurs on Wednesday, May 28 at 12 pm EST. Register today.) Whether TikTok will hold onto that gain, or even be around next year, is an open question. If it is eventually banned–the Trump administration keeps delaying implementation of a Congressionally passed ban–small businesses stand to lose out. A new study by two Columbia Business School professors looked at what happened when the app briefly went offline in January. Ad prices on Facebook and Instagram jumped 10% as bigger advertisers shifted their spending. Small businesses couldn't keep up. The study concluded that a full TikTok ban would likely hit small advertisers the hardest. As the new Trump administration took office, TikTok realized it needed to change who it was appealing to in order to avoid a ban. In the lead-up to a possible U.S. shutdown, the company pivoted its messaging to focus on how, as the Columbia study now shows, it delivers for small business owners, a group that, not coincidentally, aligns more closely with the current administration's priorities and voter base. It's keeping the pressure on the administration. As part of May's Small Business Month, the platform is publicizing that it's giving away $1 million in ad credits to small businesses. Whether they post on TikTok or other platforms, most businesses handle content creation internally. Just one-third have a formal content department, and another 38% rely on full-time, dedicated staff. Just 4% outsource creation entirely. The rest assign the job to existing employees who juggle it with their other duties. However businesses choose to manage content creation, the investment usually proves worthwhile, according to data compiled by Forbes Advisor. Content marketing pays off for small businesses because it's affordable and effective. It generates three times more leads than traditional advertising, yet studies show it costs 62% less. Companies that invest in content see a return of $2.77 for every dollar spent, making it a powerful driver of revenue. Conversion rates are six times higher for businesses using content, underscoring its direct impact on sales and customer growth. Still, many small businesses struggle with creating fresh, consistent media. According to Verizon's survey, more than half say producing enough content to keep up with demand is a challenge. Another 54% said they have trouble keeping what they make up to date with the latest social media trends. That gap between effort and payoff is where many businesses get stuck. Almost everyone's doing it, and the upside is hard to ignore. But getting results takes effort. You need ideas, time and someone to keep the content coming. For some businesses, it may be easier to skip the hassle and just buy ads. More from Forbes
Business Journals
20-05-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Verizon Business report reveals tech investments propel SMBs towards greater efficiency and growth
A recent study by Verizon Business into the actions and attitudes of decision-makers at small and midsize businesses nationwide shows that SMBs are continuing to invest in technology to improve efficiency and better connect with customers. Decision-makers view new technology adoption as key for achieving their goals, with survey respondents continually adding or upgrading their technologies. In fact, two of three businesses enhanced internet bandwidth and speeds. 'Small businesses need to stay nimble in today's fast-changing market and new tools allow SMBs to pivot quickly when customer needs shift or new opportunities emerge,' said Jorge Zapata, senior director of retail and SMB business sales at Verizon Business in South Florida. The survey revealed that 70% of decision-makers said technology upgrades have led to cost savings, while 62% cited incremental revenue as a benefit. 'Using new tech is vital for small businesses to compete today because it can level the playing field with larger competitors and boost efficiency and value,' said Zapata. 'For businesses scaling fast or leveraging seasonal demand, embracing digital tools enables them to automate routine tasks, gain deeper customer insights through data analytics and create seamless experiences across all touchpoints.' Efficiency and flexibility allow SMBs the ability to customize their tech Businesses that added or upgraded point-of-service systems in the past year noted an increase in the speed and efficiency of payments, managing inventory and improving payment security. Most decision-makers (58%) reported they will evaluate or upgrade their payment processing systems within the next six months. There has also been an increase in the number of retail, restaurant and food-and-beverage industries using 5G networks to support contactless payments. The most-used form of digital payment is PayPal, accepted by three in four SMBs, while over half accept payment from Google Wallet and Apple Wallet. Due to the varying priorities in technology needs, SMBs do not have identical tech stacks, valuing flexibility in services like wireless business plans. For example, MyBizPlan from Verizon Business allows SMB customers to create and customize their wireless business plans based on their needs. In addition to unlimited calling, data and texting, customers can choose from business add-ons like mobile security, 50-gigabyte hot spots and unlimited individual cloud storage. 'Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, My Biz Plan allows businesses to customize connectivity services for their specific requirements, eliminating the waste of paying for unused features. The plan's predictable monthly costs improve budgeting accuracy, while its scalability means businesses can easily adjust services as they grow,' Zapata said. 'We're especially excited about the competitive international connectivity My Biz Plan brings to small businesses.' Adopting AI to improve customer engagement, increase productivity and reduce cyberattacks Four in 10 small and midsize businesses now use artificial intelligence (AI), according to the survey, often to increase engagement with customers. AI can provide around-the-clock access for routine service requests while freeing up team members to focus on more complex matters. For example, Business Assistant from Verizon Business enables SMBs to engage with customers through text messages. The AI handles routine inquiries and can seamlessly transfer the conversation to a human representative when needed. A comparison of Verizon Business' latest survey results with those from its 2024 survey showed that fewer decision-makers are concerned about integrating AI into their business or that leveraging it opens them up to cybersecurity risks. While 55% believe leveraging Al tools opens their businesses to more cybersecurity risks, 25% are using it to prevent cybersecurity attacks. More than half (56%) believe that Al can increase productivity by helping their businesses offset impacts from reducing or freezing their headcount. Providing tech solutions based on local needs While improving efficiency, connecting with customers and strengthening cybersecurity are common priorities for SMBs nationwide, businesses may have different goals locally. Other reasons for technology upgrades include improving customer acquisition, driving employee retention and meeting demands created by new working models like hybrid and remote environments. 'Throughout South Florida, we're seeing a few key trends,' Zapata said. 'First, the major tourism industry requires enhanced connectivity, which increases the need for business continuity solutions due to seasonal weather challenges. 'Additionally, there's growth in hybrid retail models that blend physical and digital experiences for SMBs in major shopping areas. 'Verizon addresses these challenges by providing SMBs with storm-ready business continuity solutions. This includes backup internet options and specialized support for seasonal hospitality and tourism businesses that are adapting to digital customer expectations. In addition, flexible connectivity packages like My Biz Plan support seamless omnichannel retail experiences,' he said. 'We're also significantly expanding our 5G infrastructure throughout Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, enabling Florida SMBs to leverage cutting-edge technologies that enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency.' Whatever the local trends may be, SMBs remain collectively optimistic. As the recent Verizon Business survey shows, most decision-makers have positive goals – and technology will be key to bringing them to fruition. Empower your small business with Verizon Business. Discover solutions that enhance connectivity, security, and efficiency. Explore how our innovative tools can support your growth and streamline operations. Take the next step towards a more connected and secure future for your business. Verizon Business provides solutions to help small businesses stay connected and secure. With a focus on reliable network services, cybersecurity, and innovative tools, Verizon Business supports growth and efficiency for companies of all sizes.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
2025 State of Small Business Survey: Surge in AI, cybersecurity and social media demand
Verizon Business data reveals SMBs expanding tech skills and leveraging AI for everything from social media strategies to workplace hiring What you need to know: Nearly half (47%) of SMBs updated their cybersecurity solutions to further protect their business. More than a third (38%) are actively using AI across multiple business functions, such as data analysis, marketing and customer service. Over 56% of SMBs believe AI can help address issues with employee management and overall employee headcount. 3 in 4 (76%) of SMBs agree that social media positively impacts their business performance. But more than half (54%) of SMBs struggle to keep online content fresh and stay up to date with social media trends. NEW YORK, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon Business today announced the findings of its sixth annual State of Small Business Survey, conducted by Morning Consult. The report shows small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are aggressively adopting technology to drive market growth and operational efficiency. The surge is fueled by increasingly accessible artificial intelligence (AI) and content creation tools, empowering SMBs to expand their marketing and sales capabilities and reach new markets. Social media is a critical driver, with 58% of SMBs now on TikTok, while 38% are actively integrating AI into their operations. This isn't just a trend; it's a fundamental transformation of how SMBs compete and thrive in the modern digital economy. 'Small business owners are entering a new chapter of digital business with the rise of AI,' said Aparna Khurjekar, Chief Revenue Officer, Business Markets and SaaS, Verizon Business. 'At Verizon, we are committed to supporting our SMB community in navigating their business through the latest technology to help deliver growth and protect their assets from emerging cyber threats.' Based on responses from 600 SMBs in the United States, the State of Small Business Survey identified the following key findings and insights: Upgrading technology solutions for new ways of doing business. In the last year, almost half of small businesses (47%) implemented new technology platforms to bolster security for their increasingly digital operations. Social media continues to be a leading customer engagement tool among SMBs, with more than three in five decision-makers either launching content creation initiatives or increasing their investment in content creation during the past year. AI adoption spreads in new ways. Today, 38% of SMBs are leveraging AI in one capacity or another. More than a quarter (28%) are using AI for marketing and social media, while 24% are using the technology for written communications. Nearly a quarter use AI to power digital personal assistants that can help them with customer service. Another 25% are using AI to boost their cybersecurity efforts. Meanwhile, SMBs are exploring AI for employee recruitment and retention, with 56% believing AI can help their business offset any pain points caused by reduced or frozen headcount and another 53% believing AI can help the business retain current staff. SMBs turn to AI to help with employee management strategies. While more than two-thirds of decision makers surveyed believe employees need to be in-person for the business to function, they are turning to AI for support in navigating this new workforce. Nineteen percent (19%) of SMBs are using AI for recruitment and talent sourcing, and 56% believe AI can help their business offset any pain points caused by reduced or frozen headcount. More than half (53%) believe AI can help the business retain current staff. Growing importance of cybersecurity. More than half of SMBs (52%) acknowledge that business growth likely increases the threat of cyberattacks on their business. Nearly half of the respondents (47%) invested in technologies to improve cybersecurity in the last year. A quarter of SMBs don't believe their business is investing enough. Content for social media continues to be king. Over the past year, SMBs have leaned heavily on social media as one of their leading customer outreach tactics. Facebook remains the number one most popular platform for these businesses, and 76% agree that social media positively impacts their business. A whopping 58% of them are on TikTok. As technology continues to evolve and become increasingly more accessible, many SMBs understand the vital importance of embracing the role of technology to grow and protect their business in this new era of digital transformation through AI. Visit our website to view the complete survey findings. For more information on Verizon's Small Business Solutions, visit Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024. Verizon's world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit or find a retail location at Media Contact: Carly Tessa in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Phone Arena
13-05-2025
- Business
- Phone Arena
Verizon's putting money on the Bills – and not in the way you think
Mobile carriers aren't just about price hikes, plan changes or device deals – even though that is usually what affects us most. Every now and then, though, they show up in other places you wouldn't expect – like the sports world. Now, Verizon is making a big move on that front. The Buffalo Bills just announced that Verizon will be the exclusive wireless telecom partner for the team's new Highmark Stadium, which is scheduled to open in 2026. On top of that, Verizon is also being named a Founding Partner for the new venue. As the official 5G provider, Verizon will manage the stadium's neutral host Distributed Antenna System (DAS), basically laying the foundation for high-speed connectivity throughout the stadium. The idea is to make sure Bills fans stay connected at all times – from sharing game moments to streaming content – without getting bogged down in the usual game-day signal overload. Verizon 's tech will also be powering the stadium's operations, sustainability efforts and logistics behind the scenes. Also, while construction is still underway, Verizon Business has already stepped in by providing temporary WiFi access points to help keep things running smoothly on-site. – Chris Flood, Atlantic North Market President, Verizon , May 2025 The new Highmark Stadium is expected to seat 60,000, with flexibility to expand for special events. It will feature massive video boards, advanced sound systems, broadcast facilities, locker rooms, a team store, concessions and even landscape work outside. And fans can expect more than just a good internet connection – Verizon customers will also get exclusive access to events, promotions and on-site perks all year long. Given how much fans love sharing game-day moments, Verizon 's role is key. Back at the Super Bowl earlier this year, Verizon's tech powered a massive 93.5 TB of data usage as fans watched the Philadelphia Eagles beat the Kansas City Chiefs. Fast and reliable connections matter in such crowded settings, where thousands of fans rely on their phones to share moments. This is the same reason AT&T also stepped up at the Superdome in New Orleans, upgrading its DAS to handle the crowd's demand for uninterrupted connectivity. So yeah, mobile carriers are definitely making moves to become the real MVPs – Most Valuable Providers – when it comes to live sports.
