In this shareable graphic, get tips on essential post-Aug. 17 business practices -- and resources for support.

Asking for referrals can be daunting, but salespeople can simply ask to share success stories, writes Colleen Francis, a sales consultant and speaker. "So if you're struggling with referrals, start by asking your current customer who else you should be talking to inside the corporation, and frame it up as sharing success," Francis advises.

Leandro Perez, chief marketing officer for Salesforce in the Asia-Pacific, talks about the importance of developing a holistic view of customers, how the company is using AI in marketing and why storytelling remains the key to brand differentiation. "In the age of AI, you need to differentiate yourself. And a good story can do that," Perez says.

Borrowing costs have fallen to their lowest level in more than a year, but homebuying activity is only seeing small gains.

Interior designer Tyka Pryde Edwards shares tips on decor items to avoid, including trendy pieces that may quickly go out of style and cheaply made goods that won't last. She emphasizes investing in quality, timeless pieces instead of following fleeting trends.

Manhattan renters are opting for smaller apartments to mitigate rental costs, with the average apartment size leased in July reaching 945 square feet, down 9.5% from the previous year, according to Miller Samuel and Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Meanwhile, the price per square rose to $85.03. The median rent for new leases remained at $4,300, 2.3% below the peak in July 2023.

The Home Depot's Hubspace is introducing a Commercial Electric Smart Exhaust Fan that integrates smart home features with a traditional bathroom exhaust fan. This device allows users to control fan speed, lighting and more via an app, providing greater energy efficiency and convenience. It represents a step forward in merging smart technology with everyday home essentials.

Michigan real estate pro Twala Lockett-Jones connects underprivileged kids with professionals from different industries who can teach them to harness their talents.

Binghamton, N.Y., has moved to classify unhoused individuals as a protected class, aiming to prevent discrimination based on housing status. This legislation is part of broader efforts to address homelessness and ensure fair treatment for all residents, regardless of their housing situation.

In 2023, IRS figures show that more than 3.4 million households in the US claimed $8.4 billion worth of tax breaks designed to promote energy efficiency last year. The tax breaks were extended and made more lucrative as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.