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AI Avatars: The Future of Human Connection in Small Business Marketing

AI Avatars: The Future of Human Connection in Small Business Marketing

artificial intelligence 11 Apr 2025

As the digital marketing landscape continues to evolve, small businesses are searching for more authentic and engaging ways to connect with their audiences. Enter AI avatars—a powerful tool combining technology with human emotion to strengthen brand identity, build trust, and drive deeper engagement.

Business Solutions Marketing Group, a leader in small business marketing, is pioneering the use of AI avatars to help brands connect more effectively in an era of automation and screen fatigue. Their innovative approach is not about replacing human touch—but about enhancing it.

1. AI Avatars: The Human Side of Digital Marketing

“AI avatars are not just about creating visually appealing characters,” says Linda Donnelly, Owner of Business Solutions Marketing Group. “They’re about using technology to enhance human connection.”

With lifelike expressions, voice personalization, and the ability to represent a brand’s tone, AI avatars offer a unique hybrid of automation and authenticity—something every small business needs in today's competitive market.

2. Benefits of AI Avatars for Small Businesses

Increased Brand Personality

AI avatars are customizable to reflect a business's core values and identity—whether casual and friendly or bold and professional. This consistency in tone and presence improves brand recall and fosters loyalty.

Enhanced Emotional Connection

Avatars with expressive facial animations and natural, empathetic voices help businesses forge emotional bonds with customers, making interactions more memorable and meaningful.

Improved Trust and Credibility

In a world where authenticity equals influence, avatars help small brands put a face to their message, share company values, and communicate transparently, thus building long-term trust.

Boosted Engagement

From explainer videos and testimonials to social media reels, AI avatars captivate viewers and increase watch time, conversion rates, and shares—key metrics for small business success.

3. Business Solutions Marketing Group’s Avatar-Driven Services

Business Solutions Marketing Group delivers end-to-end AI avatar marketing tailored specifically to small business needs:

  • Avatar Creation: Custom design of AI avatars that mirror a brand’s visual identity, tone, and values.

  • Scriptwriting & Voiceovers: Engaging scripts and personalized voiceovers to ensure authenticity and relatability.

  • Video Production: Full-scale production including animation, audio, and editing for polished, professional results.

  • Campaign Strategy & Execution: Strategic planning and rollout of avatar-driven campaigns aimed at boosting awareness, engagement, and leads.

4. Why This Matters Now

With audiences demanding more personalization and emotion in brand interactions, AI avatars are perfectly timed to fill the void left by static content and impersonal automation.

“We believe that AI avatars have the potential to revolutionize the way businesses connect with their audiences,” Donnelly adds. “By embracing this technology and using it thoughtfully, businesses can build stronger relationships, enhance engagement, and achieve greater success.”

AI avatars offer a humanized digital experience—a blend of storytelling, branding, and emotional connection that small businesses often struggle to achieve. With the expert support of Business Solutions Marketing Group, brands now have the tools to turn heads, win hearts, and grow trust—all while staying agile and innovative in the fast-changing digital space.

Creative Forces Expands APAC Reach with Culturally Relevant Content

Creative Forces Expands APAC Reach with Culturally Relevant Content

marketing 11 Apr 2025

 

In a region as culturally diverse as Asia-Pacific, marketing success depends on more than just creativity—it requires deep cultural understanding and a global mindset. Creative Forces, a marketing and content production agency with over 16 years of experience, is delivering on both fronts. The agency has cemented its position as a regional leader in culturally attuned storytelling, with high-quality production capabilities and international collaborations that elevate its brand promise.

One standout example? The successful launch of LUXE.TV, a global luxury lifestyle channel, into emerging Asian markets like Mongolia—an initiative that speaks volumes about Creative Forces’ agility, vision, and cross-cultural expertise.

1. A Legacy Built on Quality and Collaboration

Founded with a focus on strategic communication and authentic storytelling, Creative Forces has steadily grown into a go-to partner for brands seeking regional influence and global impact. Their team, comprising professionals with 20+ years of creative and strategic experience, takes a client-first approach, ensuring content resonates locally while meeting global standards.

Services include:

  • Brand Development

  • Content Production

  • Campaign Strategy & Management

  • Cross-border Market Activation

This well-rounded capability allows the agency to craft compelling narratives that reflect brand values and consumer behavior across cultures.

2. The LUXE.TV Milestone: Global Luxury Meets Local Relevance

A defining moment in Creative Forces' recent journey is the Asian launch of LUXE.TV, an internationally recognized luxury lifestyle media brand. Creative Forces led the adaptation and regional introduction of the channel across select markets, including Mongolia—a project that demanded both media sophistication and localized insight.

This milestone highlighted the agency’s ability to:

  • Align luxury global content with local audience preferences.

  • Navigate media regulations and infrastructure across countries.

  • Deliver broadcast-quality production with storytelling that feels personal and aspirational.

It also reinforced Creative Forces’ position as a bridge between international brands and Asian markets—a niche that few agencies serve effectively.

3. Regional Strength Meets Global Flexibility

Operating with a hybrid model, Creative Forces allows clients from across the globe to collaborate seamlessly—whether remote or on-site. This approach is especially valuable for today’s distributed workforces and global marketing teams seeking:

  • Agile production timelines

  • Regional content localization

  • Strategic cross-border partnerships

Their team’s cultural fluency across the Asia-Pacific region enables brands to confidently navigate nuances in consumer tone, preferences, and storytelling formats.

4. A Vision for Continued Expansion

As the media and marketing landscape evolves, Creative Forces remains focused on:

  • Deepening its presence in key Asian markets.

  • Developing scalable content solutions that serve both regional campaigns and international activations.

  • Building more global partnerships to bring fresh, diverse voices to the forefront.

“Our team’s experience and understanding of both local cultures and international expectations allow us to provide content that resonates on multiple levels,” said a Creative Forces representative. “We aim to build meaningful connections between brands and their audiences.”

In an age where authenticity, relevance, and production quality define marketing success, Creative Forces is proving that regional expertise + global thinking is a winning formula. From brand campaigns to luxury media launches, the agency is helping clients tell stories that travel—while staying rooted in cultural truth.

As APAC’s media ecosystem continues to evolve, Creative Forces stands out as a key player delivering thoughtful, strategic content for a connected world.

 

The Future of Search: How AI is Reshaping SEO Strategies

The Future of Search: How AI is Reshaping SEO Strategies

artificial intelligence 11 Apr 2025

The digital marketing landscape is undergoing a radical transformation—and at the center of this shift is AI-powered search. Traditional keyword-based search engines are rapidly giving way to systems that can interpret context, intent, and human-like language. For marketers and business owners, this isn’t just a tech trend—it’s a call to rethink how we create, optimize, and deliver content.

Actual SEO Media, Inc. highlights this new frontier: a world where AI enables smarter, faster, and more intuitive search experiences, changing how consumers discover information—and how brands get discovered.

Let’s explore what this means, and how to adapt your SEO and content strategies to stay competitive.

1. Enhanced AI-Powered Search: Beyond Keywords

AI-powered search engines are evolving from simply matching keywords to interpreting the meaning behind queries. These systems use advanced language models to understand nuance, tone, and intent—much like a human conversation.

  • Example: A user types “best car dealerships near me for electric SUVs under 40k.” Instead of just showing dealership listings, the AI understands budget, location, and vehicle type to offer hyper-relevant results.

This leap in search functionality demands that businesses create content aligned with user goals, not just keyword presence.

2. Major Shifts in Search Engine Behavior

Context Over Keywords

Search engines like Google and tools like ChatGPT can now parse semantic meaning, delivering personalized results based on intent rather than strict matches.

Deeper Research Results

AI now curates results based on topic depth and relevance, helping users get more comprehensive answers—great news for brands that publish detailed, high-quality content.

Natural Language Understanding

Search is now conversational. Whether it’s voice or text, people ask questions naturally—and search engines respond in kind. That means your content must be structured for clarity, flow, and FAQ-style responses.

3. What Marketers Must Do Differently Now

Content Optimization for Intent

Instead of just chasing high-volume keywords, businesses need to focus on:

  • Answering specific questions

  • Using conversational language

  • Building content around real user problems

Smarter Content Creation

AI tools can help identify content gaps and emerging topics. Brands can now:

  • Analyze user behavior patterns

  • Predict future queries

  • Create content that’s highly personalized and engaging

Localized, Personalized SEO

AI-enabled search is boosting local and individualized results. Businesses must:

  • Optimize for location-based queries

  • Create content that reflects local language and preferences

  • Implement structured data (schema markup) to appear in featured snippets

4. Emerging AI Search Trends to Watch

Voice Search Is Here to Stay

With voice assistants embedded in everything from phones to fridges, conversational content is a must. Use natural phrases, Q&A sections, and long-tail keywords to optimize.

Visual Search Gaining Ground

Platforms like Google Lens and Pinterest are making image-based search mainstream, especially for retail, fashion, real estate, and food. Brands should:

  • Use descriptive alt-text

  • Optimize image sizes and formats

  • Leverage visual schema (e.g., Product schema)

Improved User Experience (UX)

AI is also transforming how search engines rank results. Fast-loading pages, clear navigation, and mobile responsiveness are now ranking essentials, not options.

5. How Businesses Can Prepare

Adapt Content Strategies

Use AI tools like SEMrush, Surfer SEO, or Jasper to:

  • Discover new keywords based on user intent

  • Audit your existing content

  • Craft optimized, relevant articles that resonate

Track AI Trends Actively

The AI landscape changes fast. Subscribe to newsletters, attend webinars, and monitor how platforms like Google, OpenAI, and Microsoft Bing are evolving.

Embrace AI Marketing Tools

Integrate tools that assist with:

  • AI-driven keyword research

  • Predictive analytics

  • Content scoring and optimization

Some great options include:

  • Clearscope

  • MarketMuse

  • ChatGPT + web browsing for trend discovery

  • RankMath for AI-powered WordPress SEO

As AI continues to rewrite the rules of digital discovery, the next generation of SEO is already here—and it’s smart, contextual, and deeply human. Businesses that embrace this transformation, focusing on intent, content quality, and user experience, will be the ones leading the pack in search rankings.

Verizon Empowers SMBs with Flexible, Custom Wireless Plans

Verizon Empowers SMBs with Flexible, Custom Wireless Plans

business 11 Apr 2025

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face a constant balancing act—cutting costs while staying connected, productive, and secure. Until now, wireless plans have forced SMBs into rigid "good, better, best" options that don’t always match real needs. But that’s about to change.

Verizon Business has launched My Biz Plan, a market-leading customizable wireless solution that empowers SMBs with unprecedented flexibility, control, and security. From fixed pricing to international connectivity, this new offering is designed for modern business agility.

Let’s break down what My Biz Plan includes and why it might just set a new industry standard.

1. Customize As You Grow: “Pay for What You Need, When You Need It”

Verizon’s My Biz Plan is rooted in simplicity: one base plan with unlimited talk, text, and data, layered with optional add-ons tailored to your specific business needs.

Add-Ons When You Need Them

  • Productivity tools

  • International data

  • Device upgrades

  • Security enhancements

This modular approach eliminates overpaying for unused features and enables SMBs to scale their plans as they grow or shift priorities.

2. Industry-First Fixed Pricing for Peace of Mind

In a rare move, Verizon is offering a 3-year fixed price guarantee on the core plan—an unprecedented perk in today’s fluctuating telecom landscape.

What’s Covered:

  • Fixed base price for calls, texts, and data (excludes taxes/fees and add-ons)

  • Stability for budgeting and long-term planning

For entrepreneurs and small business owners, this provides predictable cost control—a crucial advantage when managing tight budgets or planning tech investments.

3. Built-In Security for SMB Devices

Cybersecurity is no longer optional—even for smaller operations. My Biz Plan includes Verizon Business Mobile Internet Security, designed to protect devices against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.

Additional Security Services Available:

  • Endpoint protection

  • Secure network access

  • Threat detection and monitoring

This built-in safety net ensures employees can work securely from anywhere, whether in the office, at a café, or on the road.

4. Competitive Pricing That Starts Low and Scales

Starting Price:

  • Just $29 per month per line (with 5+ lines, autopay, and paperless billing)

  • Add-on services available from $5/month each

This makes it easy for teams of any size to access enterprise-grade service without the enterprise price tag.

5. Global Connectivity for Modern Workforces

In an era of remote work and global collaboration, Verizon has integrated affordable international features into My Biz Plan.

International Add-On:

  • Unlimited talk, text, and data in 210+ countries

  • Starting at just $10/month

Now, businesses with traveling teams or global clients can stay connected seamlessly—without surprise roaming charges.

Verizon’s My Biz Plan is more than a new product—it’s a shift in how wireless services are delivered to SMBs. With its flexibility, built-in security, affordable pricing, and international readiness, it speaks directly to the real-world needs of today’s business owners.

Whether you're scaling fast, managing a hybrid workforce, or simply tired of one-size-fits-all plans, My Biz Plan offers a smarter path forward.

UMGP Appoints Edward Constantin as Chief Growth Officer

UMGP Appoints Edward Constantin as Chief Growth Officer

marketing 11 Apr 2025

In a move set to redefine its growth strategy and global media footprint, Universal Media Group Inc. (OTC: UMGP) has appointed Edward Constantin as its Chief Growth Officer. This pivotal leadership addition signals UMGP’s intent to blend traditional media operations with digital influence, crypto-savvy strategies, and celebrity-powered visibility.

With an extensive background in entrepreneurship, financial markets, and social media branding, Constantin is uniquely positioned to amplify UMGP’s expansion plans in both entertainment and digital media spaces.

1. A Strategic Partnership Months in the Making

UMGP President Mike Sherman and Edward Constantin have been collaborating behind the scenes for months, assessing mutual goals and potential synergies. The appointment is the result of a shared long-term vision for media innovation and digital-first storytelling.

  • Discussions included global expansion, branded content, and digital transformation

  • The partnership is built on trust, entrepreneurial alignment, and visionary ambition

2. A Dynamic Leader with Market Acumen

Edward Constantin brings a rare blend of experience as a stock and crypto trader, investor, and business leader. His insight into emerging markets and disruptive finance positions him as a valuable strategist in media monetization and audience growth.

His credentials include:

  • Proven track record in crypto and stock trading

  • Entrepreneurial leadership across tech and media spaces

  • Data-informed, performance-focused approach to growth

3. A Global Influencer with Expansive Reach

Constantin is more than a business leader—he’s a global personality with millions of followers across social media platforms. His personal brand resonates with a wide audience, from Gen Z digital natives to financial and lifestyle enthusiasts.

What this means for UMGP:

  • Access to new audiences through influencer-powered marketing

  • Greater brand visibility across digital, streaming, and social channels

  • Opportunities for interactive fan experiences and global engagement

4. Behind-the-Scenes Docuseries in Development

To celebrate this new chapter, UMGP has announced the production of a docuseries chronicling Edward’s career, personal story, and ambitions as Chief Growth Officer.

The docuseries will:

  • Provide an exclusive look at his rise to international prominence

  • Explore his approach to business, branding, and innovation

  • Serve as a brand awareness tool for UMGP’s evolving media strategy

5. A Growth-Focused Role with Immediate Impact

As CGO, Edward will be directly involved in current and upcoming UMGP projects, bringing fresh energy, digital-first insights, and a passion for innovation.

His key focus areas include:

  • Driving strategic partnerships and influencer collaborations

  • Expanding digital media ventures and streaming opportunities

  • Enhancing global branding efforts across entertainment verticals

The appointment of Edward Constantin as Chief Growth Officer marks a transformational moment for Universal Media Group. By combining his financial acumen, influential presence, and entrepreneurial mindset, UMGP is poised to become a more powerful force in the modern media landscape.

As the docuseries unfolds and collaborative projects take shape, one thing is clear: UMGP is betting big on bold leadership—and the future looks brighter than ever.

Magnite Expands Global Partnership with Samsung Ads for Streaming

Magnite Expands Global Partnership with Samsung Ads for Streaming

advertising 10 Apr 2025

 

Magnite, the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising platform, has announced the expansion of its global partnership with Samsung Ads, the advertising arm of Samsung Electronics. Building on significant growth from 2023 to 2024, this collaboration aims to push the boundaries of programmatic advertising in the streaming ecosystem. The alliance is focused on advanced audience targeting, improved monetization, and global scalability.

Partnership Highlights

  • Sustained Revenue Growth

    • Samsung Ads experienced double-digit percentage gross revenue growth on the Magnite Streaming SSP.

    • Growth reflects the effectiveness of the ongoing collaboration between the two companies from 2023 to 2024.

  • Enhanced Audience Addressability

    • Samsung Ads will utilize Magnite Access to better manage and activate behavioral audience data.

    • The tool allows Samsung Ads to boost targeted impressions, enhance CPMs, and generate higher revenue across Magnite’s platforms.

  • Strengthening Programmatic Infrastructure

    • Magnite Access will serve as a pivotal element in scaling Samsung’s programmatic capabilities.

    • Supports better monetization strategies and data utilization through advanced technology.

Samsung’s Global Expansion and Data Strength

  • Dominance in the U.S. Market

    • Samsung Ads now holds the largest single source of TV data in the U.S., built on consumer consent.

    • This dataset forms the backbone of its advertising precision and scale.

  • Rapid Growth of Samsung TV Plus

    • Samsung TV Plus now reaches 88 million monthly active users.

    • The free ad-supported TV (FAST) and on-demand (AVOD) service continues to grow globally, with recent launches in Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand.

    • For the first time in these regions, programmatic access is being enabled via Magnite.

Technology-Driven Advertising Breakthroughs

  • Custom Solutions and Monetization Tools

    • Magnite has supported Samsung Ads with custom tech to optimize monetization strategies.

    • Tools include:

      • Simplified genre targeting for contextual advertising.

      • Advanced forecasting capabilities to improve planning accuracy.

      • Major reductions in timeouts, which support better viewer experiences during high-traffic periods.

  • Magnite Storefront Integration

    • Part of the Magnite Access suite, Magnite Storefront offers enhanced data value and operational flexibility.

    • Empowers Samsung Ads’ sales teams with tools to craft best-in-class advertiser solutions.

Industry Perspective

  • Leadership Commentary

    • Joe Melaragno, Head of Channel Sales at Samsung Ads:
      “Our collaboration with Magnite has led to breakthroughs that enhance programmatic monetization and elevate viewer engagement.”

    • Ryan Kenney, SVP, Streaming Platform at Magnite:
      “We’re proud to advance our partnership and help scale audience-based buying in the growing ad-supported streaming landscape.”

As ad-supported streaming gains global traction, the extended partnership between Magnite and Samsung Ads signals a deeper investment in scalable, data-driven programmatic advertising. With enhanced addressability, global inventory expansion, and advanced monetization tools, both companies are set to redefine how streaming ads are bought, sold, and experienced.

 

Redpoint Global Named 2025 CDP of the Year by Data Breakthrough

Redpoint Global Named 2025 CDP of the Year by Data Breakthrough

customer data platforms 10 Apr 2025

Redpoint Global, a leading name in customer data technology, has been honored as the 2025 Customer Data Platform (CDP) of the Year in the 6th Annual Data Breakthrough Awards. This recognition reinforces Redpoint’s role as a trusted innovator in the CDP landscape, standing out for its commitment to data accuracy, usability, and enterprise-wide integration.

Data Breakthrough Awards

  • Prestigious Industry Recognition

    • The Data Breakthrough Awards celebrate global leaders in data technology.

    • Winners are selected based on innovation, impact, and excellence in execution.

  • Focused on Visionaries

    • The awards identify companies that push the boundaries of what's possible with data.

    • Redpoint joins an elite group of past winners known for setting new industry standards.

What Sets Redpoint Global Apart

  • Superior Data Readiness

    • Redpoint ensures that customer data is:

      • Complete – no gaps or silos across data sources.

      • Accurate – continuously refined and validated.

      • Timely – updated in real-time or near real-time for relevance.

    • Data is also fit for purpose, meaning:

      • Actionable – easily activated across marketing and service channels.

      • Trusted – reliable for AI and analytics.

      • Compliant – meets all privacy and data governance requirements.

  • Solving a Core Industry Challenge

    • Many CDPs fall short by neglecting data quality, which impairs outcomes.

    • Redpoint’s platform uniquely ensures data is business-ready, enabling enterprise scalability.

  • Enabling Real Business Impact

    • Customers using Redpoint report significant improvements in:

      • Revenue generation.

      • Productivity and operational efficiency.

      • Customer experience and engagement outcomes.

Supporting Enterprise Use Cases

  • AI and Advanced Analytics

    • Clean, unified data powers machine learning models and personalization engines.

  • Customer Experience (CX)

    • Real-time insights fuel dynamic customer journeys and meaningful interactions.

  • Service Optimization

    • Accurate profiles allow for proactive, personalized service delivery.

Leadership Perspective

  • Dale Renner, Founder & CEO of Redpoint Global, stated:
    “This recognition underscores Redpoint’s leadership in customer data technology and affirms our commitment to setting the standard for data quality and enterprise readiness.”

  • Impact of Redpoint’s Technology

    • Customers unlock deeper insights.

    • Drive meaningful engagement.

    • Achieve both substantial revenue growth and operational efficiencies.

Being named the 2025 Customer Data Platform of the Year is a testament to Redpoint Global’s innovation, precision, and customer-first philosophy. As businesses continue to seek a unified, high-quality data foundation to power digital transformation, Redpoint emerges as the gold standard—proving that when data is right and ready, growth follows.

The Trade Desk Appoints Will Platt-Higgins as EVP for North America

The Trade Desk Appoints Will Platt-Higgins as EVP for North America

advertising 10 Apr 2025

 

The Trade Desk, a global advertising technology leader, has appointed Will Platt-Higgins as Executive Vice President of Business Development for North America. In this strategic role, Platt-Higgins will lead the company’s business development efforts, helping to align revenue strategies with the evolving needs of brand marketers and agencies across the region. Operating out of New York, he reports directly to Chief Revenue Officer Jed Dederick.

A Strategic Leadership Move

  • Objective-Driven Leadership

    • The appointment reflects The Trade Desk’s commitment to accelerating growth by strengthening partnerships with brands and agencies.

    • As programmatic advertising gains momentum, the company is sharpening its focus on client-centric business expansion.

  • Leadership Oversight

    • Platt-Higgins will oversee regional business development strategy.

    • His role is critical in advancing The Trade Desk’s revenue goals in a dynamic, data-driven advertising ecosystem.

Will Platt-Higgins: A Veteran in Global Advertising

  • Industry Experience

    • Over 30 years of experience in advertising, brand strategy, and business development.

    • Known for cultivating long-term partnerships with top agencies and global brands.

  • Tenure at Meta

    • Led Meta’s global client and agency partnerships for 12 years.

    • Played a pivotal role in driving commercial growth and expanding agency relations.

  • Previous Role at WPP’s GREY Group

    • Managed Procter & Gamble’s global hair and air-care business units.

    • Helped lead brand portfolio growth through innovative marketing strategies.

Vision for the Future of Programmatic Advertising

  • Driving Real Business Outcomes

    • Emphasizing data-driven, evidence-based media buying.

    • The Trade Desk platform offers transparent, objective tools for marketers to measure and maximize advertising impact.

  • Leadership Statements

    • Jed Dederick, CRO, The Trade Desk:
      “Will joins at a pivotal moment as brands increasingly rely on data to drive advertising ROI. His leadership will be key to our clients’ success.”

    • Will Platt-Higgins:
      “The Trade Desk is leading the future of advertising through unmatched innovation and a relentless focus on customer success. I’m excited to help define that future.”

Broader Contributions and Industry Impact

  • Industry and Social Contributions

    • Board member at:

      • The Ronald McDonald House, NY

      • The GaleWill Center for Opportunity & Progress

      • Board of Curriculum Advisors, FIT/ISCOM (SUNY)

  • Thought Leadership

    • Frequently contributes to conversations around digital transformation and advertising strategy.

    • Regular keynote speaker at major industry events.

  • Academic Background

    • Holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Bristol.

The appointment of Will Platt-Higgins signals The Trade Desk’s intent to deepen relationships with agencies and brands while reinforcing its leadership in programmatic advertising. His extensive experience and strategic insight will play a vital role in shaping the future of digital advertising, helping clients achieve measurable business outcomes in an ever-evolving media landscape.

 

   

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