WHAT TOP SMALL BUSINESS SPEAKERS GIVE KEYNOTES ON LATELY

It’s common knowledge among small business speakers that while large corporations often grab the spotlight, their clientele is the true backbone of economies around the world. And as the business landscape rapidly evolves, such firms will need to adapt to keep thriving. What kinds of changes do small business speakers say that owners be prepared for? Allow us to explain what futurists and thought leaders are saying.

1. Continued E-Commerce Growth – The rise of e-commerce is one of the biggest disruptions to traditional business models, and this trend shows no signs of slowing. Having a strong online presence and e-commerce capabilities will be table stakes.
2. Tighter Cybersecurity – As hackers get more sophisticated, data breaches pose a major risk to small firms. Prioritizing cybersecurity through updated systems, training, and processes will be crucial, small business speakers observe.
3. Use of Low-Code Tools – With limited IT resources, small businesses will lean more on low-code/no-code tools and platforms to create apps, automate workflows, and digitize operations.
4. Leveraging AI and Analytics – Companies will also need to tap into AI, machine learning, and data analytics to uncover insights, optimize performance, and better serve customers.
5. The Reshaped Workplace – From hoteling and hot-desking to increased remote work policies, companies must rethink and redesign their office environments and cultures.
6. Sustainability as a Differentiator – Per the best small business speakers, customers will increasingly seek out and support firms that prioritize sustainability, both operational and within their products/services.
7. Emphasis on Local – At the same time, an emphasis on local communities, local sourcing, and local experiences will create opportunities for small, community-based businesses.
8. Leveraging Niche Expertise – With their ability to specialize, small firms will carve out profitable niches by becoming experts in narrower domains that bigger companies can’t focus on.
9. Finding New Funding Sources – Traditional bank loans will be supplemented by alternate funding models like crowdfunding, online lenders, angel investors, and micro-investing platforms.
10. Creating Exceptional CX – In order to compete with larger competitors, small business speakers advocate that firms must go above and beyond to create remarkable, memorable customer experiences.

And those are a number of trends that the best small business speakers believe owners and entrepreneurs must be aware of in order to successfully navigate the changes on the horizon. T