The Youzus Report: Episode 21

THE

T IDAL 9 9 M ore P ro ble ms fo r M u s ic Fa n s

APRIL 2015 - EPISODE 21

REP ORT ERICA WARK ERIKA The Fashionista On Insta

YOUZUS PICKS

BOHTEN

ECO

3 Kick

EYEWEAR

Starters

MOBILE PAYMENT APPS

SOCIAL

EVENTS #DOINGITRIGHT

SOCIAL MEDIA HOROSCOPES

#WHOWILLYOUHELP

Snapchat

Emoji Legend 1

The Youzus Report

spring social.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

4 7 8 11 13 15 16 22 24 2

EVENTS

SOCIAL MEDIA, PR & NETWORKING NEW TECH

MOBILE PAYMENT APPS #DOINGITRIGHT

#WHOWILLYOUHELP ENTREPRENEUR: BOHTEN

THE VISIONARY ECO EYEWEAR SNAPCHAT

THE NEWEST TROLLING UPDATE YOUZUS PICKS

3 KICKSTARTERS MUSIC

JAY Z’S TIDAL ENTREPRENEUR: ERICA WARK

THE FASHIONISTA ON INSTA QUESTION OF THE DAY

BRANDS ON SNAPCHAT

The Youzus Report

CREATIVE DRIVER I know I typically speak about things that happen in my life every month, or related to business etc., but this month I wanted to talk about the very essence of Social Media Marketing - exactly why this magazine was created in the first place.

Seth Godin said something very interesting not too long ago: “The Internet is the first medium invented in 100 years that wasn’t invented to make advertisers happy. The connection between running ads and making money is broken, probably forever. As soon as you take that out of the equation, everything we understand about marketing, manufacturing, distribution--it all goes away. The new era of modern marketing is about the connection economy, it’s about trust, it’s about awareness, it’s about the fact that attention is worth way more than it used to be.”

And it’s true. Social media marketing is about creating conversations and engaging with communities or individuals in real time, and there are not enough people that take advantage of this.There are actually far TOO many people that are concerned with building their brand and growing their numbers than ever before.

One thing people need to keep in mind when it comes to social media marketing is it all comes down to the emotion you create amongst the people you are connected with that will lead to engagement. Don’t just copy the masses because you think that it’s the ‘hip’ thing to do or that it will increase your numbers. If you have a story, or something neat to share that comes from the bottom of your heart and is 100% real, I can almost guarantee that if you post enough of it, you will begin to gain traction and in turn followership.

That’s all folks.

Hope you enjoy this months issue of The Youzus Report!

@SonyaGillHost

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EVENT

DATE

CITY

6th Social Media Risks

Tues, May 5 & Wed, May 6

Toronto,ON

Digital Media Summit

Thurs, May 7

Toronto, ON

DigiFest 2015

Thurs, May 7& Sat, May 9

Toronto, ON

DemoCamp Toronto

Tues, May 12

Toronto, ON

Social Media Camp

Thurs, May 12 - Sat May 23

Victoria, BC

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EVENT

TIME/DATE

LOCATION

Show Me The Media!

6:30-8:30 pm May 4, 2015

Shopify 80 Spadina Ave

ClientFlo’s Google Breakfast

8:30am-12pm May 26,2015

Google Canada, 111 Richmond St. West

Women 2.0 City Meetup Toronto

6:30pm-8:30pm May 7,2015

Mars Discovery District 101 College St.

Branding Your Best Self Networking Night

6:30pm-8:00pm May 7,2015

Better Styled Inc 150 Eglinton Ave East Suite 806

Interact- Multiplatform Mixer

6:00pm-8:00pm May 13,2015

Bar Italia 582 College St.

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SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING IN PARTNERSHIP & TRAINING WITH

$500

/ MONTH

GabJab.ca 6

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M O B I L E PAY M E N T A P P S by @nancilynselva How do you feel about getting rid of credit cards and cash and paying with a mobile app? There’s a new wave of apps in town to make your mediums of payment endless, while still keeping your information secure.

People are now ditching their physical wallet for a mobile wallet. If you are new to hearing about this digital payment trend, here are the most popular mobile payment apps right now:

APPLE PAY

1

If you use any Apple devices be sure to use the Apple Pay app. It’s set up through the Passbook app that is automatically installed on new Apple devices, such as the iPhone 6. By using your fingerprint ‘touch ID’ while holding the app to the store’s sensor, you are able to make your payment. This app also features loyalty cards, gift cards, concert/movie tickets and even coupons. As far as security concerns is taken into consideration, your information is stored on a chip within the device itself and does not store any transaction details.

GOOGLE WALLET

2

The Google Wallet app launched in 2011 but failed because most wireless providers had blocked the app from functioning on their phones. This didn’t stop Google from buying the Softcard mobile wallet and working their way to be accessible by majority of the wireless service providers. What makes Google Wallet convenient is that users can input as many credit cards onto the app as they please, and must create a 4-digit PIN which is to be used when paying, before tapping. Google also allows you to add money to your wallet from your own bank account or cards. In addition, users can also send and receive money from their Wallet via Gmail.

SAMSUNG PAY

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Samsung’s mobile payment app is said to be compatible with 90% of North American stores. Samsung Pay is similar to Apple’s app, with the tap and pay and fingerprint method of payment. Since Samsung Pay had purchased the LoopPay mobile payment system, rumors are that it will have the same perks - one of them being able to store your IDs onto the app and being able to ditching the wallet! The app uses a token system like Apple and Google’s payment apps and is set to fully release in the summer.

CURRENTC

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Recently bought by PayPal, CurrentC has big bucks like Walmart, Target, Kohl’s and more behind their payment method.

CurrentC gives the store access to information to the user’s data and is not available to all just yet. CC is set to work on any mobile device and carrier and needs your personal information such as drivers licenses and social security number for verification. Just like the other mobile payment apps, CC uses a token 4 digit PIN in order to pay. They also offer app payments at gas pumps, loyalty points and coupons from transactions while also downloading coupons and promotions automatically.

STRATOS

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Stratos was founded by a startup company and uses an app and a card to account for all of your credit cards and/or memberships. To use the app you must have a membership with Stratos that ranges from $99 for 1 year or $145 for 2 years. To upload you cards, you can swipe them through the reader that comes with the card. The app is said to use the magentic card reader and the battery-powered card holds information for up to three cards so you don’t have to bring your phone with you either. The app will also have features like location and history-based suggestions of stores that are compatible with the app.

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#DOINGITRIGHT

#WhoWillYouHelp @Priyaamm

T

he beginning of the month brought a whole new realm of awareness for sexual abuse in Ontario with the Ontario Government #WhoWillYouHelp public announcement ad. We can always count on good old Canada to give us something to think about on screen and leave us speechless and wanting to fix the crisis.

The powerful ad depicted various scenarios where women were placed in situations that could be stopped – if only someone took the time to do it. The ad resonates with women who are looking to places of leadership for help in changing how sexual assault crimes are both seen and dealt with. The ad went viral and created noise, as many viewers applauded Canada on the initiative. Though the spread of this issue was successful there were a few doubtful consumers.

People argued why a gender bias was being portrayed as only females were shown as victims and males as perpetrators. All in all from twitter to facebook this ad sure created a huge buzz and put The Ontario Government on the map of social change.

The potential of ads is enormous in influencing the viewer. It can completely change their mentality and has the power to make a difference. #WhoWillYouHelp made it on our #DoingItRight list, by using this tool in a clever way of speaking the truth by putting the viewer in the seat of someone who had the choice to help or not. It targeted bystanders and converted them to take action in just a few moments, making viewers take responsibility for their actions just by watching an ad on t.v.

According to the Premier’s office, a permanent committee will be established to give the government advice on gender-based violence issues — a change that will hopefully make permanent changes in the way we all treat each other.

Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2ZSZrGc-O8

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Bohten THE VISIONARY ECO EYEWEAR by @debbielutweets Aiming to create eco-luxury eyewear, Nana Osei founded Bôhten - an urban eyewear brand that is manufactured using reclaimed material and handcrafted in a zero-waste facility. With his love of nature and Ghanaian roots, Nana continues to help bring job opportunities to West Africa and contribute in producing high-fashion eyewear with minimal waste.

What is Bôhten?

Bôhten is an innovative eyewear brand that manufactures glasses from reclaimed material, sourced from West Africa and currently made in Canada.

What was your inspiration behind the brand?

Our inspiration comes from our desire to uplift the overall standard for manufacturing in the eyewear industry through the development of mobile manufacturing hubs. This will help create fair-paid jobs on a global scale. We have spent the last year developing our own sustainable production blueprint in Canada and also plan to license the process all over Africa, starting with my home country Ghana..

Our goal is to improve the way of manufacturing through the integration of sustainable practices that can help reduce our carbon footprint. Currently, we are working on our own waste management initiative to launch in Canada in 2016 and Ghana in 2018. We also are looking at using other eco-friendly materials such as agricultural bio-fibre wheat for our eyewear line 2017.

What’s the most popular design?

The most popular design is the Barklae. It’s a ready to wear wayfarer style that comes in 6 different species of reclaimed wood. We originally launched the design in 2013 at our Ottawa Fashion Week Launch.

How was your experience on Dragon’s Den? Dragon’s Den was a very humbling experience for me. We didn’t get a deal but the most important thing was us being able to tell our story to millions of people. As a result, we have inspired many people to follow their dreams of starting their own business.

What do you like the most about using social media for Bôhten?

Social media puts the tools you need to reach your target market in your own hands. Bohten has been very successful in using our social media channels at a zero or little cost. We have also learned how to use our online media to increase our conversion rates for online distribution.

How did social media assist Bôhten with brand awareness and building the company?

What platforms worked best for Bôhten?

We use Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to keep people up to date with what is going on within the company. Those three platforms are very influential means of spreading the word whenever we have a new feature, promotion or collection.

What advice would you offer a starting entrepreneur?

I would advise an entrepreneur starting to focus on telling the story of your brand and how it makes you unique. Leveraging your social media through visuals of your products will make it easier for you to grow your reach organically. I would not advise growing your business with social media bots or services that artificially increase your following. Majority of the time these methods of growth are not targeted.

PHOTO CREDIT: HATSUYO CHINO

What’s your goal for Bôhten in 2015?

Our goal for 2015 is to centralize and master our blueprint manufacturing process in Toronto.

We are officially going into production for our new collection Wanderlust this May. Setting up our own production facility locally will allow us to improve economical and environmental standards on a global scale with our forward-thinking eco-fashion philosophy.

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TWITTER INFLUENCERS

@MIKEA_13 @SPROUTSOCIAL @CBARROWS @KISS925 @GEEKWIRE @GOGADM @JESSETYLER @HEFORSHE @EMWATSON @ARBYS 12

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snapchat

JUST BECAME THE BIGGEST TROLL ON YOUR PHONE. by @Alexandravies

Is your side-chick your girl’s best friend? YOU’RE BUSTED. Okay, that has probably only happened to about 5% of snapchat users as of late, but it is true, Snapchat just got more intense. The newest update brings you 6 emojis explaining your relationship with your top friends on the app. Now if you are confused as to which emoji represents your relation with your favourite users, we have created an official legend to help everyone out.

YELLOW HEART This is your #1, the Rihanna to your Beyonce, if you will. You send them the most snaps and they send you the most snaps.

GRITTED TEETH You have a mutual #1. They are sending the most snaps to the person you are also sending the most snaps to. (Awkward).

SMILEY FACE One of your BFFs. You two send each other a lot of snaps, but not enough to be your #1.

THE COOL GUY One of your best friends is one of their best friends. The person you send a lot of snaps to is the same person they send a lot to as well. S’all good here.

THE SMIRKING ONE This is the most awkward one. You are their best friend, but they are not yours. They go a tad overkill on snaps to you, and you just can’t reciprocate. (It’s not you, it’s them).

FLAME Oooo you’re on a snap-streak with this person. You are sending a lot of snaps back and forth. It will even list how many days you are snapping consecutively.

Well there you have it, folks. Snapchat knows all your secrets, love interests, and all your best friends.

We can’t imagine what they will come up with next, but we are sure it will be even more revealing.

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YOUZUS PICKS by @vivianamy

This month we discovered exciting, upcoming gadgets that would benefit the techie with a super busy schedule and for those looking for ways to make life more efficient. We scouted out different Kickstarter campaigns that are scheduled to run through the month of May - here’s our top 3 picks:

1

SNAPPOWER CHARGER

SnapPower Charger is a power outlet cover plate that is reinvented for the modern day human. This outlet plate includes a built-in adapter that charges everything USB. Without a doubt, we all use some form of tech gadget that requires charging with a USB cord that requires a bulky USB adaptor to plug in to an outlet. Let’s skip the adapter. We can see SnapPower Charger swapped into every household in the next coming years. It’s a brilliant, nofuss, simple, yet very necessary piece of technology that we all need in our lives.

2 3

DROPLET

Ever set so many reminders that you either swipe to ignore or press snooze - And then completely forget to do? Droplet is a smart reminder that tracks activities you don’t want to forget. Instead of sending you a notification to do something, it only notifies you when you pass the scheduled time. By having a physical button to press upon completion of the task, this will train your brain to remember things without reminders. It comes with an app that also provides tracking data so you can view your progress.

PLANTY

Anyone guilty of forgetting to water their plants? We are. Planty is an internet-connected planter pot that allows you to track the health of your plant.

Sort of like a virtual pet, but actually for a real life plant. Planty allows you to monitor and water your plant on-the-go through a mobile app. This is true futuristic gardening. Planty - A smart way to connect with nature.

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WHAT IS THE REALITY BEHIND JAY Z’S

#TIDALFORALL AND WHY IS IT CAUSING A SOCIAL STORM?

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6345 120TH STREET, DELTA, BRITISH COLUMBIA The Youzus Report

TIDAL Brings 99 More Problems for Music Fans @Alexandravies

I

f you are a notorious music downloader or free streaming connoisseur, then you probably have heard of TIDAL.

The rap legend himself, Jay-Z, who once has claimed he could sell fire in hell, has launched this new music streaming service and coined it TIDAL. Alongside his “co-owners” aka the Avengers of music, Rihanna, Daft Punk, Beyonce, Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Madonna, Kanye West, Alicia Keys and Jack White, all took stage on March 30, 2015 in NYC to formally launch this new era of music listening.

The service claims to provide music fans with high-fidelity sound and high definition video, aimed to “re-establish the value of music.” The catch? Jigga is no newbie to sales, so obviously there is a price to pay for access. $20 a month to be exact, or only $10 for lessthan-quality versions. Not ideal for those used to getting it all for free.

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Though TIDAL aims to provide music fans with better content, the real MVP’s here are the artists themselves. They end up gaining more control over who listens to their tracks, and how much money people are willing to cough up to do so.

So why would anyone switch over to TIDAL rather than resorting to other streaming services such as Spotify, Rdio, or Pandora? Because Jay-Z is allowing web-exclusive videos only available on TIDAL, giving superfans their daily-fix on what their favourite artists are up to. Oh, and did we mention artists signed on with TIDAL will be pulling their content from every other streaming website? TIDAL may be the only option for music fans to stream their favourite artists if this pans out full-force. All cheques can be made out to “Hova.”

Will you be signing up for TIDAL? Join to conversation and tweet us at @youzus_inc. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYYGdcLbFkw

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ERICA WARK THE FASHIONISTA

ON INSTA

STARTING IN RETAIL and part-time modeling, fashion has always been an important part of Erica’s everyday life. With a background in journalism, she soon became a regular guest host on The Social. We love her bubbly personality, and of course, her versatile sense of style.

From casual sportswear to classy ball gowns, Erica is the expert to find the best look for you.

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Tell us about you and what you do.

I’m a freelance stylist and fashion expert!

When and why did you decide to become a stylist?

I wouldn’t say I decided… it was more like it was decided for me. It all happened very organically. I was completing my journalism degree and diploma in Ottawa, modelling in Ottawa and Montreal as well as working a part time job at a local high-end retail store. Fashion surrounded me, and I loved it. Once I graduated I did several internships, worked in retail management and had many freelance writing gigs on the go. Around that time I also was doing freelance styling jobs on the side and realized I really enjoyed it. It all grew from there.

What is it like to be on The Social? Do you ever get nervous in front of camera?

The Social is incredible. The energy, the people, the overall style of the show – it’s a perfect fit for me.

Ha ha, I supposed I was nervous for the first show, but no not really – it’s very natural for me – and I love the women I work with; they’re so talented, intelligent and warm… they put me at ease.

What did you enjoy the most while styling for Canadian singer Kiesza for Juno Awards 2015?

Kiesza’s an incredible woman. She’s so young but has an old soul, making her a delight to work with.

She’s also fearless – which is amazing for a stylist because it meant I could really push the boundaries and put her in something truly unique. Her energy and attention to detail is spot on, which made the entire experience an absolute blast!

What do you like the most about using social media for your brand?

I love that I can interact immediately and directly with fans of my work. I’m constantly getting emails, tweets and facebook messages asking for advice on all sorts of things: what do I wear to my daughters wedding, what should I wear on my upcoming job interview… the list goes on – it’s a beautiful thing having people reach out to you for your opinion and expertise. I absolutely love sharing my passion with other people. I couldn’t imagine it any other way!

How did social media assist you with brand awareness and building Erica On Fashion?

It’s been an asset. Being able to reach out to men and women all over the world by a click of a button is remarkable. If it weren’t for social media and the internet in general, I probably wouldn’t have the jobs I have today.

What social media do you use most and why?

I would say it’s pretty even – Instagram, Twitter and Facebook I use daily, although I would have to say Twitter is probably what I use most just because it’s instant and always moving.

What’s your greatest accomplishment through social media?

That’s a tough question because there are so many ways social media has been beneficial to me and my peers in the industry. I always get excited when a designer responds to something I’ve worn on one of the shows or online – it’s an honour having the one who created the piece you’re wearing to throw a compliment your way!

What advice would you offer someone who wants to start in the fashion industry?

This is probably the most common question I get and the answer is actually quite simple: hard work and dedication. Saying yes to every opportunity that comes your way, especially when you’re starting out, because at that point it’s all about gaining experience, learning new things and meeting people who can help influence you to your true path in life. I started out in this industry thinking I’d be writing for a magazine – clearly the universe had a different plan for me. Listen to your intuition and be true to yourself – that will always bring success.

(Photo credit: Throne Photography) interviewed by @debbielutweets

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QUESTION OF THE DAY by: @nancilynselva

We asked a few entrepreneurs, small biz owners and regular tweeps “ How do you feel about #brands using @Snapchat to connect with their consumers?#QuestionOfTheDay #TheYouzusReport ” ………………………………………………………………………………………………

Here’s what they had to tweet:

“

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BOBBY UMAR @raehanbobb

”

Go where your target is & where they are willing to engage. Depends on the brand & product, but it can be a great move.

The Youzus Report

MICHAEL ALVARO

“

@MikeA_13

”

It all depends if their consumers are using @Snapchat or not.

Go to where your audience is spending time.

KATY BOND @MsKatyBond

LAURA E. PENCE @SocialSavvyGeek

“

“

”

The 20-somethings seems to be all over it! And it was a hit for in-real-time exclusive access to events at @sxsw

”

Makes sense if that’s where their audience is, which depends on their target demographic.

“

CHARLENE KINGSTON @SocialMediaDIY

”

I encourage the use of any and every tool. The more creative the better.

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SOCIAL MEDIA HOROSCOPES See what the stars have to say about your social-ness!

Spring is at full swing, this is your month to get back at it on social media. Work and school had you stressed out and occupied in March, but this month use your free time to your advantage by branding yourself on instagram and twitter!

Possible business partnerships will be waiting right around the corner.

You are bold and beautiful; make a statement this month by showing it au natural.

Try not using filters and focusing on white space in your photos on instagram.

Sometimes less is more. Limit your tweets to 3 a week and don’t share posts on facebook as often. People will notice you for the quality of your posts, not the quantity.

You’ve been through a lot last month that tested your limits. You made it through and its time for a new you! Don’t be afraid to let go of things from the past that only bring you down. Delete people you don’t want in your social circle, don’t let jealousy get the best of you. Show off little achievements on facebook and important dates! Try not to get stuck in the retweet and subtweet fashion of ex’s.

Taurus you have been fighting the urge to stalk a certain someones online profile awhile. Sometimes it’s best if you just go and see what they are up to to put your mind to rest. Just remember social media is selective and they people don’t always post honestly online.

There’s nothing worse than finding out a secret over social media. If you’ve recently come across something you suspect might hurt a close friend, be honest but remember not to blow it out of proportion. People only post what they want others to see, the person could be playing a mind game and wanted you to find it.

Your life is blooming on social media! You’re driving a lot of traffic to your personal accounts and creating awesome connections. Be careful not to share too much information online Libra. You never know who could end up on your twitter page so stay alert not to post personal confidential information that could get you into trouble. It’s smart to put your instagram on private and stay aware of your followers, as you never know.

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You’re smile is contagious, take more selfies! Your followers are missing your face on instagram, besides the great photography, the delicious dinners and the cute animal pictures to stay connected to your audience throw in a personal photo from time to time.

You seem to the king of hastags this month. Be careful what you hashtag, you may gain the wrong crowd of followers that you weren’t gearing towards.

Remember to use block or report if you feel anything suspicious.

Your snapchat stories have been the talk of the town. Time to switch up the apps and try dubsmash. Your friends love your humor and sense for entertainment, you will love this new dubbing app that will leave them in tears!

Social butterfly Sagittarius. Grow your wings and fly! You are the beginning of all the trends in your circle of friends, keep them updated by starting a personal blog on tumblr, or share your daily stories on youtube. Your followers love your sense of individuality.

You’ve got a knack for writing posts. Your magic on the keyboard make you whiz on social media, don’t lose that! Try creating your own hashtag this month and see if it catches on!

You seem to the be center of all fame. People are always taking pictures with out at every event front, right and center. Beware of silent facebook tags you wouldn’t want work colleges seeing!

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CONTRIBUTORS: Content Writers Sonya Gill @SonyaGillHost avies @ alexandr

@priyaamm

@nancilynselva amy

@vivian

Graphic Designers @priyaamm

@nancilynselva

Editor in Chief @vivianamy the YOUZUS REPORT is brought to you by

| 130 SPADINA AVE, SUITE 401, TORONTO, ON , M5V 2L4 | 416.797.4117 | INFO@YOUZUS.COM

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