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Blog Managing Your Business

How to Stay Connected to Your Customers – at a Distance

Running a business during a pandemic isn’t something you planned to do in 2020, but it’s a reality we’re all experiencing. As you continue to move forward, how can you stay connected to your customers during a time when you’re supposed to stay at a distance? Here are five tips to consider:

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate.

One of the best ways to connect with your customers is to continue communicating with them as though you were seeing them face-to-face. Use your social media channels more often to discuss things that relate to your business. Email your customers the “latest and greatest” happenings at your company and how you continue to respond to their needs.

Make It Easy for Customers to Buy Online.

During this time, it’s essential to make your products and services more accessible online. You may want to send an email or post a video discussing all the ways customers can buy your products and services online – and even incent them to do so.

Get Creative With Your Offerings.

Offer discounts or credits customers can redeem now or later, whether online or in person. You may even promote your gift cards to gain sales and maintain positive interactions with your customers. It may also be an excellent opportunity to encourage long-term subscriptions or memberships at a discounted price.

Post-training Tutorials or Fun, Entertaining Videos.

Now’s the time you may need to get a little creative with your business. Let’s say you’re a personal trainer. You may want to create a daily workout for your clients to use to stay in shape. Or maybe you own a local restaurant. Start a fun cooking show on YouTube to give new recipes to try or share your “secret recipes” for your customers’ favorite entrees. Have fun finding new and unique ways to communicate with your customers. You may find that some of these ideas will stay with you even after the pandemic ends.

Keep Things Clean and Sanitized.

If customers can visit your store or office, be sure you’re maintaining proper hygienic practices. Deep clean your business every night, and before you open, wipe everything down to ensure cleanliness. Check your bathrooms several times a day to ensure they are clean and sanitized. Keep hand sanitizer available for customers to use and consider offering complimentary masks (or charge a nominal price). Try to urge customers to maintain social distancing protocols for continued safety as well.

In these unprecedented times, you’ll need to connect to customers in unusual ways. Talk to customers and employees to learn what matters most to them and find ways to meet their needs. Don’t be afraid to try new things. You may find that some of the things you implement right now may stick and drive in business better than you would have imagined.

 

 

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Blog Fraud & Security Managing Your Business

How to Protect Your Digital Life

Nowadays, we do nearly everything virtually – from having staff meetings to purchasing supplies and paying bills. It also means that protecting your personal information is more critical than ever. Here are some things you should do to protect your digital life:

Keep security software current.

Be sure every computer your business owns is properly protected with the latest security software, web browser and operating system. Turn on automatic software updates (if that’s an available option) to defend against any known or unknown risks. You should also scan USB and any other external devices to ensure they aren’t infected by viruses or malware.  

Use secure passwords and authentication options. 

Because you use online accounts for many purposes, you must fortify them with the most robust authentication available, such as biometrics, security keys, or two-factor authentication. Additionally, you should update your passwords regularly – make sure they aren’t easy to detect (and ask your employees to do the same). You may also consider using a password manager to keep track of your passwords and those used at your company.

Be smart with your connections.

You should avoid using any type of Wi-Fi hotspot to conduct any financial business. While some places may say their Wi-Fi is secure, don’t take any chances. Either use your mobile network to conduct your business or wait until you return to a safe location. Additionally, never open a link in an email or social post when you are unsure of who the sender may be. Even if you know the source, if something looks suspicious, delete it.

Back up your business and personal information regularly. 

Every day you work on things that matter to your business. Protect your valuable work and financial information by making an electronic copy and storing it safely. Many business owners use external hard drives or the cloud for this purpose. Additionally, secure your storage location with strong passwords and keep them updated regularly.

Keep your online presence private. 

Be thoughtful about who gets your personal information and how it’s collected through apps and websites. Set privacy and security settings on web services and devices to limit how and with whom you share information. And think before you post anything about yourself or your employees on social media – you want to ensure privacy is protected above all else.

Taking these precautions can help protect your digital life so you can feel more at ease as you continue to help your customers and employees. If you do find any unauthorized transactions in your Pinnacle Bank checking account or another account, contact us at 877.759.7939. We’ll help resolve your issue immediately so you can move on to what matters most.

 

Categories
Blog Fraud & Security Managing Your Business

Protect Yourself From COVID-19 Fraud

As COVID-19 continues to impact the U.S., there has also been an alarming increase in fraudulent activity related to the pandemic. As of June 2020, the FTC reported receiving more than 103,000 fraud complaints due to COVID-19, totaling $68.11 million in total fraud loss. To help you safeguard your money, we’ve highlighted five scams and how to avoid them: 

Scam #1: Expedited Stimulus Checks

The IRS began distributing economic impact stimulus checks on April 13 through direct deposit, on April 24 by mail, and they will continue distribution through September 2020. If you have yet to receive your stimulus payment, you may receive an email or phone call stating you can expedite the delivery of your payment or increase your stimulus check amount. Please don’t fall for any request like this as it’s a scam. Instead, if you have questions, visit https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment. You can see the amount you’ll be paid, an estimated time when you should receive your payment, and how it will be paid to you (direct deposit or mailed check).

Scam #2: Miracle Cures

You may receive emails, calls, or find a site online that claims to provide a “cure” for the coronavirus. While it may be tempting to try it out, it’s a scam. There is no cure or treatment for the virus at this time. Unless you receive advice from your health care professional or the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ignore it.

Scam #3: Government-issued Online COVID-19 Testing

The Food and Drug Administration recently approved the first “at-home” test for COVID-19; however, if you find someone selling these tests online, it’s likely a scam. To stay safe, consult your health care professional before taking any COVID-19 test and follow the instructions carefully.

Scam #4: Product and Service Claims

When COVID-19 hit, many essential household supplies, such as toilet paper and sanitizing wipes or sprays, became hot commodities. Unfortunately, many fraudulent businesses claimed to have these products in stock and charged significantly marked-up prices to obtain them. And in some cases, consumers or companies that purchased these products never received them.

Additionally, you may have received texts or phone calls about product offers touting low-priced health insurance, student loan payment plans and debt consolidation solutions. All you need to do is provide your financial information upfront to accept a special offer, defer payment, or use the solution provided.

How can you avoid being a victim of this scam? Follow these simple rules:

  • If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Don’t pay more for an item online than you would in a store (excluding shipping).
  • If you receive information asking for your financial information via text or email, it’s likely a scam. Call your health insurance provider or lender to ask about options available to you.
  • Never click on a link or attachment via email or text.
  • Hang up on anyone calling you for personal financial information, especially if you didn’t initiate the call.

Scam #5: Fake Charities and Donations

Fake charities always pop up during times of crisis, and the pandemic is no different. One of the best ways to counter this type of fraud is to donate only to familiar charities or groups. That way, you can be sure your money is going where it should go to help others in times of crisis.

Report Any Fraudulent Activity on Your Account

If you have any questions or concerns about your account, please feel free to contact us. We’re here to clear up any issues you may have and help you manage and protect your finances in our changing economy. If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, or you notice an unauthorized transaction in your account, please notify us immediately at 877.759.7939.

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General News

Employee Insights – Andy Harmel

Andrew (Andy) Harmel is a Mortgage Loan Originator at Pinnacle Bank. His strong background in serving the public in various capacities through technology, pharmaceuticals, and law enforcement makes him an ideal fit for our mortgage team. His problem-solving skills, commitment to honesty and fairness, and desire to enhance others’ lives are unmatched. Every day, Andy helps his clients achieve homeownership by making the loan process as seamless as possible at Pinnacle Bank!

Andy currently resides in Evans, GA, with his family. When not at work, he loves teaching his sons how to build things or doing home improvement projects.

Contact – Andy Harmel

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General News

Employee Insights – Federico Solano

federico@2xFederico Solano is a Mortgage Loan Originator at Pinnacle Bank, offering over 12 years of banking experience.

Federico grew up in the banking industry, starting as a Bilingual Teller in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Since that time, he has been a Vault Teller, Personal Banker, Senior Banker, Assistant Branch Manager, Office Manager and Mortgage Loan Originator. He has processed an extensive amount of loans and enjoys helping people reach their dreams of buying a new home and being part of the process.

Federico graduated from National University in Heredia, Costa Rica, with a degree in computer systems and business management. Originally from Alajuela, Costa Rica, he now calls North Augusta, South Carolina, his home. His strong bilingual background helps Pinnacle Bank mortgage clients with the things they may need in the comfort of their first language. He is also a public notary in South Carolina, which is extremely useful in the mortgage industry.

When he’s not at the bank, he enjoys being around water in any capacity – wakeboarding, camping, surfing, and even deep-sea fishing. He also enjoys working on woodcraft projects, which he finds relaxing and quite fulfilling. 

Contact – Federico Solano

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General News

Employee Insights – Tony Collins

Blog Image Tony CollinsTony Collins recently joined the Pinnacle Bank team as Senior Vice President, Market Executive, bringing with him over 45 years of banking experience. He has truly “done it all at the bank!”

Tony grew up in Lula, Georgia, and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1975 with a degree in Political Science. After college, he began his banking career in Gainesville, and in 1983, he graduated from the University of Virginia’s Retail School for Bank Management. Tony’s banking experience includes bank operations, finance and accounting, bank administration, commercial and consumer lending, and executive management. With a particular interest in bank financial management, during his career, he has provided organization advisory assistance to numerous North Georgia banks. He enjoys working closely with the people of North Georgia and has developed many long-standing relationships with businesses and bankers throughout the region.

In his current position at Pinnacle Bank, Tony will provide a unique insight into the North Georgia market because of his vast knowledge of banking in the region. Using this rich history, Tony will undoubtedly help Pinnacle expand existing relationships and develop new ones to help better meet the needs of its customers.

When Tony’s not working at the bank, he enjoys playing golf and spending time with his four grandchildren. We’re excited to have Tony on the Pinnacle team and look forward to great things happening in the future.

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General News

Employee Spotlight – Shane Sheppard

BlogShane Sheppard is Pinnacle Bank’s Mortgage Sales Team Leader, offering more than 21 years of mortgage sales and banking experience. 

 

Shane was born and raised in Augusta, GA, and educated at Augusta State University. He is a certified mortgage specialist through the School of Mortgage Banking in Georgia and a member of the Mortgage Bankers Association of Augusta. Shane has received many awards for customer service and revenue generation over the years. 

 

Besides the experience he carries in the banking industry, Shane has worked diligently to fundraise for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and has volunteered with the Columbia County Exchange Club. He enjoys serving others and has found it can open doors to many personal and professional opportunities. 

 

In his current position at Pinnacle Bank, Shane provides a fresh look at some of the current issues facing the mortgage market, especially in Georgia. His focus and background in mortgage sales are essential to helping Pinnacle customers find the mortgage options that are right for them. 

 

When he’s not working, Shane enjoys spending time with his wife and children, coaching youth baseball, fishing and spending time outdoors. He’s also an active member of the St. Teresa of Avila Church.

  

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Blog

You Need a Vacation – Take One

When was the last time you disconnected from your office – no phone calls, no emails, nothing? Consider this example: You’re on vacation, sitting on a beach chair, enjoying the sun. You have your phone with you to enjoy some music, and you decide to check your email. You see an email from your office, and you open it. Someone emailed you with a question, so you respond. Then you respond to another email and start thinking, “I can just do a few things while I’m sitting here.” Before you know it, you’re working on your “vacation.”

As a small business owner, it’s tempting to always be working. You may think, “time is money,” and most times, that’s true. But your mind and body must disconnect and unwind. Studies have shown that if you don’t take time off, you put yourself at risk for stress-related injuries and other health problems. In our current environment, you may find it a little more challenging to get away to the places you’d typically unplug and rewind, but there are still things you can do – and places you can go – to get away from it all.

Be Clear About Your Vacation Plans.
Once you’ve made plans to take a few days (or a few weeks) off from work, discuss the key tasks your staff will need to manage while you’re gone. Explain coverage assignments and create a back-up plan “just in case.” Talk to your key contacts or critical clients before you leave, so they’re aware of your plans. Additionally, be very clear about what you want to know while you’re away and make sure everyone understands what you consider to be an “emergency.”

After you’ve communicated your plans, put an “away from the office” notification on your email and any other locations you deem necessary. Just remember to respond to emergencies only while you’re on vacation; otherwise, your efforts before leaving will be for naught.

Stay Home or Go Away – It’s Up to You.
In today’s environment, you may not be able to visit your favorite vacation spot or relax on a cruise somewhere, but there are still many things you can (and should) do. Get outside and enjoy your pool or take a hike with your family. Binge-watch your favorite TV series or watch some of the movies you’ve wanted to see but haven’t. Get a massage, pedicure or manicure as a way to relax and get your mind off everything. Exercise at home or your gym. Maybe try a new format or stick to something you enjoy. Play board games or cards with your family. Whatever you decide, just be sure you’re relaxing and enjoying yourself each day.

Plan Activities to Help You Relax and Enjoy Your Time Off.
It’s your time to do what you enjoy. Set up a schedule and stick to it every day, so you’re not tempted to slip back into your regular habit of checking email or calling your employees. If you’re spending time with your family or friends, ask them to hold you accountable for relaxing. A simple nudge from a child, spouse or good friend will help you stay focused on what matters most.

Prepare For Your Return to Work.
If you’ve taken a vacation before and regretted it when you returned to the office, you didn’t prepare correctly. Take time the day before you return to work to prepare. First, scan your inbox and prioritize: delete it, delegate it or deal with it. Make a priority list to deal with the most pressing items first and work from there. Second, check in with your key staff to find out what happened while you were away. Ask them to update you via email before you return so you don’t have to spend time on the phone (on your last day of vacation) talking about work. Lastly, create your plan of the day for your first day back to work. By planning your priorities, you won’t become overwhelmed by your list of things to do, and you’ll be able to ease back into the swing of things.

While taking a vacation might seem impossible, it’s doable and something your mind and body need. Remember, the time you spend away from your business will help you rejuvenate, which may fuel new ideas and help you stay more focused in the future.

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Blog

Sleep is Essential to Managing a Successful Business

Blog 2It’s 1 a.m. What are you doing? Hopefully, you’re sleeping – especially if you’re managing your own business. But many of us don’t get the sleep we need, which hampers our success in the long run.

Sleep experts say a good night of rest (usually around seven to eight hours of sleep) allows every system in our body to function optimally. In fact, sleep plays a critical role in our emotional and physical health, including our ability to combat illness.*

How can you get the rest you need to manage your business effectively? Here are a few tips to help:

  1. Go to bed at the same time every night. This is usually a difficult one, but you must establish a routine. Treat sleep as you would any other task and set it as a task with a deadline to accomplish every day.
  2. Avoid caffeine within 10 hours of bedtime. No, we’re not saying you have to cut out your morning coffee. But, it’s a good idea to cut caffeine out of your diet about 10 hours before your regular bedtime. So if you plan to go to sleep at 10 PM, try to avoid drinking caffeinated tea, coffee or soda (or even eating chocolate) after 12 PM.
  3. Prepare to nod off quickly. Do things before bedtime to help you relax and calm your mind – yoga, meditation, prayer, massage, or a warm bath. If you find that you’re tossing and turning for 20 or 30 minutes, get up, watch a little television or read. Do something to help you feel sleepy again and then go back to bed.
  4. Make your bedroom a comfortable place to sleep. Darken your room completely, which means you may need to turn off the television, turn your clock toward the wall, or wear an eye mask. And spend money on a comfortable mattress. If you wake up sore and in pain, that’s not ideal for getting right to work.
  5. Take a power nap if you need it. There’s nothing wrong with taking a brief nap during the day to feel refreshed. Close your office door (if you have one) and try to power nap for about 10-20 minutes. That little burst of energy is more effective (and healthier) than a shot of caffeine.

If you find that you’re still struggling to get the sleep you need, talk to a healthcare professional for advice. But, don’t put it off. Sleep is essential for optimal health and will help you manage your business effectively.

*https://www.inc.com/matt-haber/sleep-research-productivity-leadership-immune-system.html

 

 

 

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Blog

Use Content to Generate Leads in Five Simple Steps

Blog 3

Step #1: Use the Right Topics.

Good content requires that you start with relevant topics. Answer the following questions to generate a list of content ideas:

  • What mistakes do your customers typically make, requiring you (or one of your employees) to intercede?
  • What expertise do you have that others don’t? What advice do your customers or employees seek from you regularly?
  • What are the “hot topics” in your industry, and how do you address them?
  • Why is your business unique from other “like” businesses? How does your brand differ from others?

Step #2: Determine the Best Way to Deliver Your Content.

With your ideas in hand, you can decide which type of content to create. Here are some options to consider:

  • Video
  • Webinar
  • Blog
  • Guide or handbook
  • White paper
  • E-book

For example, a home organizer may want to create a “how-to” video series focused on tips for organizing homes in simple ways. On the other hand, a real estate agent may develop a weekly blog about the local market or what to consider when buying a home.

Talk to your staff and customers to get further insight. Find out what you think they’d like to learn from you, and how they’d like to receive it. Determine what medium is best suited for your business, or whether to use multiple options.

Step #3: Determine How to Create Your Content.

Now it’s time to write your content. You have three options to consider:

  1. Create it yourself,
  2. Delegate the task to a trusted employee (or group of employees), or
  3. Hire an outside freelancer or firm to help.

While all of these options are viable, you’ll need to choose one or a combination of the three that best suits your business plan.

Step #4: Make Your Website Your “Content Hub.”

House your content on a special landing page on your website. Typically, this landing page will have a simple “teaser” copy to entice visitors to read more or download your information. Or you may want your landing page to house your blog or video library. Just try to limit the clicks visitors make to reach the desired content.

No matter how you set up your landing page, though, you should allow visitors with a way to receive more exclusive content or future specials. You may also consider offering a subscription to a regular email, membership to a VIP group (or other special deal), or another way to drive business to the rest of your site.

Step #5: Promote Your Content 24/7.

Now that your landing page is ready to go, it’s time to drive customers (or prospective customers) to it. And once you set up your promotional efforts, you can drive people to your content while you sleep! Here are a few strategies to consider:

  • Create consistent posts on social media that drive people to the content on your site.
  • Use existing lists to email customers about new content and share why it may benefit them.
  • Use an existing email newsletter to feature your new content. Give your readers a sample of the information and ask them to share the link with anyone they believe it may help.
  • Select portions of your content to use for community presentations, special promotions, or any other purpose. The more the information is out in the market, the stronger your recognition will be.
  • Activate a pop-up feature on your website to push to your new content. That way, when visitors go to your site, they can click on it to learn more.

Ready to Get Started?

As you try new styles of content or ways of promoting it, take note of what works best with your customers – and then use that knowledge to set up your strategies going forward. If this all seems a little overwhelming, talk to a marketing professional to help you set everything up – or just a portion. The more you can push relevant content to the right customers, the more leads you’ll generate. And those leads will turn into lucrative sales and more loyal customers.