In my non-coffee life, I saw the Avengers trailer this morning and got *really* excited. Not just because I’ve been watching all the movies and related TV shows, but also because I’ve been playing the LEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2 game on the Nintendo Switch. When people ask what my self-care routine is, I can say it’s smashing virtual LEGO pieces up.

Hope you enjoy this issue!

– Jenn

Go Beyond Double-Tapping the Heart Button

In January this year, I wrote about making small motions for customer service. The idea is that you don’t need to do much to elevate your service, whether it’s online or in-person. Especially during these stressful holiday months (for those who work retail, I see you!), tensions are high and customers lash out. It’s easy to get mad. I yell into an empty apartment when that happens to me.

To stand out on social, some people think you need to publish stunning photos and witty captions. And sure, that can be memorable. But chances are that you’re in the customer service game, too, and going beyond double-tapping on an Instagram post can show a little more about how you care about them.

Some ideas:

• Actually comment on photos (and not the Nice! Cool! Love it! variety)
• Reply to Instagram Stories posts that don’t mention your brand (which means you have to watch some Stories)
• Join in on some Twitter conversations
• Personalize an order receipt if you see someone posted about ordering from you on social media

And finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. I hope you have a stress-free rest of the year.

How to Master Every Step of Your Snapchat Ads

[BYLINE] If your target market is 14-30 year-olds in the US, maybe Snapchat is for you! In this case, I waded back into Snapchat to figure out Ads so you don’t have to.

Hmm, not too much happened in the last two weeks in terms of updates to the various networks.

How to 10X Your Sales With Instagram Shopping

Instagram Shopping is here – have you seen the product tags in posts? This is great news for retailers, especially going into the holiday season!

Is Micro-Influencer Marketing Right for Your Business?

Micro-influencer marketing is the hot new trend, but will it work for you? Learn what a micro-influencer is and how to run a micro-influencer campaign!

How to Target Specialized Audiences With Facebook Ads : Social Media Examiner

Learn how to create six refined target audiences and improve the ROI of your Facebook and Instagram campaigns.

For Brands, Does Gender Equality Work Both Ways?

“Recognize exclusion: Exclusion happens when we solve problems using our own biases. It seems the marketing folks at many brands believe that only moms are the caregivers.”

Pizza Is Partisan, and Advertisers Are Still Adjusting

With the country so divided on so many issues, companies are increasingly finding themselves in the middle of controversies. They’re realizing it may be the new normal.

How To Design Your Ideal Workday Based On Your Sleep Habits

According to sleep expert Michael Breus, you can pack the most into your working hours by knowing your sleep type.

A coffee shop celebrated gentrification — and is now profusely penitent

An excellent example of how not to market your cafe and how not to apologize.