Business Speak

The SMB IT community has morphed and changed over the years from starting as a groovy co-op to seeing incredible growth in the last few years.  With the growth in the community we are seeing a rise in mergers and acquisitions.  Despite the everchanging world with the pandemic, concerns of high interest rates, inflation, and limited resources, companies are looking to the future by digitizing, merging, and building strong marketing strategies. 

During the pandemic PC sales posted their fastest growth in 20 years, as the world prepared for remote work and learning.  Although the PC sales spiked in Q1 2021, Q1 2022 global PC shipments is down according to Gartner.  announced that “it estimates that PC shipments decreased 7.3% on an annual basis to 77.5 million units.” 

The growing dependency on technology has resulted in a increasing number of cyber security threats.  As the cyber security landscape changes, it is becoming more important than ever for business owners to look at and understand cyber security, as well as their business risks, vulnerability and how it can affect their business should they be attacked. 

Building a community starts with a culture that is focused on strong relationships, that help build referrals.  Alignable is an online network community that focuses on just that.  It helps connect small business owners across North America to drive leads and prospects, generate referrals, land new business, build trusted relationships, and share great advice.  Harry Brelsford of SMB Nation sits down with Beatrice Phillips of THE ALPHA GROUP INTERNATIONAL who received the Business Person of the Year award  in Orlando, to discuss the best kept secret to grow your business.     

Technology is moving  faster than ever before.  From robots responding to customers, AI anticipating orders before they are placed, and the ability to stream music, share cars, and have groceries delivered at the touch of a button is being driven by the latest technology innovations.  With technology transforming daily it has opened up opportunities for cybersecurity attackers to use new technology for their advantage meanwhile defenders are trying to keep up. 

Building a successful company is about more than hiring the right talent.  While hiring is important, it is just as, if not more important to help employees grow into valuable contributors to the team.   Empowering employees is an important part of boosting the culture, morale, and employees value within the company.