In an interview with Ramon Ray, publisher of ZoneofGenius.com, Erika Angell, Vice President of Small Business Sales at Verizon Business, unpacked how technology continues to evolve and empower small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs). From cybersecurity and artificial intelligence to education and operational efficiency, Erika shared powerful strategies for how businesses can prepare for the future, no matter their size.

Beyond Devices: What Verizon Really Offers Small Businesses

Many small business owners still associate Verizon with phones and tablets—but as Erika emphasized, Verizon Business is far more than a mobile provider.

Verizon supports small businesses with:

• Business Internet – Fast, plug-and-play solutions tailored for remote work, pop-up events, and mobile operations.
• Voice Solutions – One Talk, their VoIP system, lets businesses scale and transfer calls across departments or teams.
• Cloud and Collaboration Tools – Allowing employees to access and share data from anywhere.
• Cybersecurity – Providing risk assessments, endpoint management, phishing protection, and remediation services.
• and more

These offerings create a robust digital ecosystem that helps businesses not only operate efficiently but also protect themselves from evolving security threats.

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Cybersecurity Is Not Optional

Erika emphasized a truth many entrepreneurs overlook: small businesses are prime targets for cyberattacks. But the good news is that solutions don’t have to be expensive or complicated.

Verizon provides:

• Two-factor authentication and strong password protocols
• Risk assessments and phishing simulations
• Cybersecurity training for staff
• Clear acceptable use policies

“We all want to trust our employees,” Erika said, “but we also want to make sure we’re giving them the right tools.” It’s about smart prevention, not just reaction.

AI: From Hype to Practical Use

Artificial intelligence is everywhere, but are small businesses actually using it?

According to Verizon’s latest survey, AI use among small businesses more than doubled since 2023, with 39% of respondents already integrating it into their operations.

Most commonly, it’s used to:

• Automate repetitive tasks
• Enhance customer experience
• Save time and improve decision-making

Verizon itself has leaned into AI with its Verizon Business Assistant—a generative AI-powered messaging tool that helps businesses handle customer inquiries automatically, freeing up time for deeper work.

As Erika put it, “AI isn’t just a buzzword. It’s being embedded in the tools businesses already use.”

The Rise of Digital Education

One major barrier for small business owners is knowing where to start. That’s why Verizon launched the Small Business Digital Ready platform—a completely free educational resource available to any entrepreneur.

From writing a business plan to building a social media presence, the platform offers:

• Short-form “micro-learnings” under 15 minutes
• Resources to build funding and networking strategies
• Actionable content that leads to real business outcomes

One business owner even doubled their revenue after using the platform to improve their digital marketing skills.

Staying Resilient in Uncertain Times

In a world marked by political shifts, economic ups and downs, and rapid innovation, small business owners must remain agile. Verizon’s team is hearing this every day—and responding.

Small businesses are:

• Investing in tech more than ever, despite uncertainty
• Upgrading internet connections to keep up with digital sales and mobile payments
• Expanding online operations through social platforms and marketplaces
• Adopting asset management solutions to track fleets and ensure safety

Even businesses still using paper processes are finding new ways to digitize and stay competitive.

Community-Driven Support

Perhaps one of the most valuable takeaways from the conversation is Verizon’s commitment to being more than a vendor. With field teams across the country, the company is deeply integrated into local communities.

“We’re here to take the stress off the small business owner,” Erika shared. “Whether it’s through our physical locations, digital tools, or expert guidance—our door is always open.”

Final Thoughts

In today’s fast-moving business landscape, small businesses need more than good instincts—they need the right technology and training. Verizon Business is playing a pivotal role in helping entrepreneurs future-proof their companies with smart tools, practical education, and a personal touch.

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, now is the time to think bigger about how tech can work for you—not against you.

For more insights like this, visit ZoneofGenius.com and explore our growing library of interviews and expert advice.