# Alejandro Rioja > Alejandro Rioja — growth, SEO, GEO and AI marketing essays from the operator's seat. Site: https://alejandrorioja.com Author: Alejandro Rioja --- ## ChatGPT Search vs Google: A Side-by-Side Test on 50 Head Terms Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/chatgpt-search-vs-google-50-term-test/ Published: 2026-05-21 Tags: SEO TL;DR: I ran the same 50 head terms in ChatGPT search and Google (with AI Overviews) and tracked which sources each engine cited. Source overlap was about 40% — the rest of the time the two engines surfaced completely different sources. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. TL;DR I ran the same 50 head terms in ChatGPT search and Google (with AI Overviews) and tracked which sources each engine cited. Source overlap was about 40% — the rest of the time the two engines surfaced completely different sources. This post covers the methodology, the patterns in where they diverged, and what the results mean for how to optimize content for both. Side-by-side comparison spreadsheet alejandrorioja.com — AI SEO + GEO *Same 50 head terms, two engines, side by side. The overlap in cited sources was lower than I expected — about 40%. The other 60% surfaced different sources entirely.* ## The setup Mid-2026 I picked 50 head terms across SEO, marketing, and operator-focused content topics. For each term, I ran the same query through ChatGPT search (signed-in, browse mode enabled, US English) and Google with AI Overviews enabled (incognito, US English, desktop). For each engine, I logged the cited sources. The hypothesis going in: substantial overlap. Both engines pull from the open web; surely they’d converge on the same authoritative sources for the same query. The result was less overlap than I expected. ## The headline result Across 50 head terms, the overlap in cited sources between ChatGPT and Google was 41% on average. Translation: roughly 4 out of every 10 sources cited by either engine appeared in the other engine’s citation list for the same query. The other 60% surfaced completely different sources. That’s a much wider divergence than I’d assumed. It changes the optimization calculus — getting cited by one engine doesn’t reliably get you cited by the other. ## Where the engines agreed The 41% overlap clustered around two source types: - **Established niche-authority sites.** Backlinko, Ahrefs blog, Moz, SEMrush blog, Search Engine Journal — both engines cite these consistently for SEO queries. Domain authority is a shared signal. - **Wikipedia and primary-source documentation.** Both engines reach for the same canonical references for definitional queries. For these source types, the engines converge. If you’re a domain-authority site or you’re providing canonical reference content, you’re cited by both. ## Where the engines diverged The 60% divergence broke down into a few clear patterns: - **ChatGPT cites Reddit, Hacker News, and Stack Overflow more often than Google AI Overviews.** About 22% of ChatGPT citations came from forum-style sources; about 7% of Google AI Overview citations did. Forums are a much bigger part of ChatGPT’s citation pool. - **Google AI Overviews cite YouTube videos more often than ChatGPT search.** Especially for “how to” queries. About 18% of Google AI Overview citations included a video; about 6% of ChatGPT citations did. - **ChatGPT prefers recently-published sources for time-sensitive queries.** Google AI Overviews are more conservative — they preferentially cite older established sources even on queries where freshness should matter. - **Google AI Overviews preferentially cite e-commerce and aggregator sites for product queries.** ChatGPT spreads citations across vendor sites, review sites, and Reddit threads more evenly. ## What this means for optimization Three implications worth acting on: 1. **Optimize for both engines explicitly.** Single-engine optimization leaves citations on the table because the engines diverge. Track citation share for both; address the gaps separately. 2. **For ChatGPT visibility, build forum presence.** A few well-placed Reddit threads or Stack Overflow answers in your niche can drive ChatGPT citations that pure-blog SEO doesn’t. 3. **For Google AI Overview visibility on how-to queries, invest in video.** A YouTube video paired with a blog post — both with the same title and topic focus — gets cited at higher combined rates than blog-only content. ## Methodology details - **50 head terms** across SEO, marketing strategy, content marketing, AI tools, and operator-focused topics. Term selection biased toward queries with commercial or research intent. - **3 measurement passes** — week 1, week 2, week 3 — to smooth out engine personalization noise. - **Citation logged as a binary** — source either cited or not. I didn’t try to quantify position or weight within the answer. - **Both engines on default settings** — no custom system prompts, no advanced operators. Trying to match what a typical user would see. - **One niche, one tester.** Generalization to other niches and other testers is uncertain. ## Source-type breakdown Of the unique sources cited across both engines on 50 queries: - **Established blog/authority sites**: 47% of citations - **Forum / community (Reddit, HN, SO)**: 14% of citations - **YouTube and video sources**: 12% of citations - **Wikipedia and primary docs**: 8% of citations - **News sites**: 6% of citations - **Vendor/product sites**: 5% of citations - **Personal blogs / niche sites**: 5% of citations - **Other / aggregators / tools**: 3% of citations Established blog/authority sites still dominate but make up less than half of total citations. The long tail of forums, video, and personal blogs is bigger than I’d expected. ## Where my own site appeared Of the 50 head terms, alejandrorioja.com was cited by ChatGPT search on 8 queries and by Google AI Overviews on 11 queries. Overlap: 5 queries cited by both. The pattern: Google AI Overviews cited the more pillar-style, authoritative-sounding posts. ChatGPT cited a slightly different mix that included a couple of more opinion-laden, first-person pieces. The “operator voice” the brand voice file calls out gets traction in ChatGPT in a way it doesn’t in Google AI Overviews. That’s a useful tell — different voice registers get rewarded by different engines, even on equivalent topics. ## What I’d test next - **Same test with Perplexity and Claude.** Four-way comparison would map the citation landscape more completely. - **The same 50 terms 6 months later.** Citation pools shift; tracking the rate of change matters for staying optimized. - **Term-by-term root cause analysis** on the queries where the engines diverged most. Likely there’s a content-type signal driving the divergence; identifying it would sharpen optimization advice. - **Replicate with a non-SEO niche** — finance, health, B2B SaaS — to see whether the overlap rate generalizes or is niche-specific. ## FAQ ### Is ChatGPT search bigger than Google in 2026? No, not by total query volume — Google still handles dramatically more searches. But ChatGPT search has meaningful share for research-driven queries (where the user wants synthesis, not links), and that share has grown materially through 2025–2026. ### Should I prioritize one engine over the other for AI SEO work? Optimize for both. The structural moves (TL;DR, FAQ, schema) work for both. Where the engines diverge is in source-type preferences (forums for ChatGPT, video for Google), so the question is more about which content types to invest in. ### How often does the citation pool change for a given query? Slower than I expected — the same 4–5 sources tend to show up week after week for stable head terms. New entrants take a few weeks to break in; established sources rarely fall out unless their content gets stale. ### What’s the easiest way to get cited by both engines simultaneously? Build a high-authority pillar post with the GEO structural overlay (TL;DR + step-by-step + FAQ + primary-source citations + schema) AND have a corresponding YouTube video AND have a Reddit thread or HN discussion of the topic. The combination covers the source-type preferences of both engines. ### Are these results going to hold a year from now? The methodology will hold; the specific numbers will move. AI engines are evolving rapidly through 2026. Re-test quarterly if you’re depending on the data; assume the directional findings are more durable than the specific percentages. --- **Want help building this on your own site?** [Read the full SEO + GEO playbook](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) or [get in touch](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact/) — I run AI SEO + GEO consulting projects for operator teams that want to compound visibility across both classic Google and AI engines. --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## How to Write a TL;DR That Gets Cited by AI Engines (Step-by-Step) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/tldr-that-gets-cited-by-ai-engines/ Published: 2026-05-18 Tags: SEO TL;DR: A TL;DR isn’t a summary of your post — it’s a direct answer to the head query, written in 2–4 sentences, structured so an AI engine can lift it verbatim into its answer. Open with the takeaway, follow with the why, end with the constraint or caveat. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. TL;DR A TL;DR isn’t a summary of your post — it’s a direct answer to the head query, written in 2–4 sentences, structured so an AI engine can lift it verbatim into its answer. Open with the takeaway, follow with the why, end with the constraint or caveat. This post covers the exact template I use, the rewrites that move citation rates, and the TL;DR mistakes that quietly kill them. Writer drafting a tight summary alejandrorioja.com — AI SEO + GEO *A TL;DR is 2–4 sentences that answer the head query directly. Open with the takeaway, follow with the why, end with the constraint or caveat. AI engines lift this block almost verbatim.* ## What a TL;DR actually is in 2026 The convention as of 2026: a TL;DR is a 2–4 sentence block at the top of every pillar post that answers the head query directly. It sits above any introduction, often boxed in a callout-style div for visual prominence, and it’s the block AI engines preferentially extract for citations. It is *not* a summary of the rest of the post. A summary describes what the post covers; a TL;DR delivers the answer the post is built around. The distinction matters because AI engines lift the TL;DR text into their synthesized answers — if it reads as “this post covers…” the engine has to keep digging. If it reads as the actual answer, the engine cites it and moves on. ## The 3-part TL;DR template Every TL;DR I write follows the same three-beat structure: 1. **The takeaway.** One sentence. The direct answer to the head query. 2. **The why or how.** One or two sentences. The mechanism, or the data backing the takeaway. 3. **The constraint or caveat.** One sentence. The “this works when…” or “this doesn’t apply if…” qualifier that makes the TL;DR honest. 2–4 sentences total. The constraint sentence is what separates a citable TL;DR from a marketing one — engines reward honest constraint language because it signals the source isn’t overselling. ## Examples that work Here are three TL;DRs from posts on this site that consistently get cited in AI engines: > **From “The Best SEO Guide For 2026”:** SEO in 2026 still rewards the fundamentals — a clean site, strong internal links, content that answers the query — but classic Google rankings are now one of two surfaces. The other is AI search: ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and Claude. The strategies in this guide still work; this section adds how to make them work for AI engines too. Takeaway: SEO fundamentals still apply. Why: there are now two surfaces. Constraint: the existing strategies need to be adapted for the second surface. > **From “How To Drive 10X Traffic”:** 10X traffic in 2026 means stacking three growth motors: classic SEO, AI search visibility, and high-leverage social distribution. The original tactics below cover Google + social. The GEO section adds the AI-search motor — getting cited inside ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews. Takeaway: stack three motors. Why: each addresses a different visibility channel. Constraint: the original post covers two; the new section adds the third. > **From “Schema Markup Tutorial”:** Schema markup was a tiebreaker for Google rankings in 2024. In 2026 it’s a primary signal for AI engines — ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews use schema to extract answers cleanly. This refresh adds the schema types that punch above their weight for GEO and a FAQ section. Takeaway: schema is now a primary AI-engine signal. Why: engines use it for clean answer extraction. Constraint: this update adds the GEO-specific types. ## Examples that don’t work (and why) > *“In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about SEO in 2026, including on-page tactics, off-page strategies, technical considerations, and the latest AI-search developments.”* This is a summary, not a TL;DR. There’s no answer here — just a table of contents in prose form. Engines have nothing to extract. > *“SEO is the most important investment you can make for your business in 2026. Our proven strategies have helped hundreds of clients achieve rankings, traffic, and revenue. Read on to discover the tactics that actually work.”* Sales pitch. Engines paraphrase this away because it doesn’t contain an actual answer. The “proven strategies” claim with no specifics fails the constraint test. > *“SEO in 2026 is about ranking factors. There are over 200 ranking factors. The top ones include backlinks, content quality, and user experience. Page speed also matters.”* Generic. No specific takeaway, no original perspective, no constraint. An AI engine pulling from this would just regenerate the same generic answer from any of 100 other sources. ## The rewrites that move citation rates Five edits that consistently move TL;DR citation performance: 1. **Replace adjectives with numbers.** “Significantly” → “by 35% across 41 pages.” Engines prefer the second; it’s verifiable. 2. **Lead with the answer, not the question.** Don’t open with “What is GEO?” — open with the answer to “what is GEO?” 3. **Add the constraint sentence.** Most weak TL;DRs are missing this. The acknowledgment of when the takeaway doesn’t apply is what makes it credible. 4. **Use first-person + concrete reference.** “In my testing across 41 pages…” beats “studies show…” by a wide margin in citation tests. 5. **Cap at 4 sentences.** Long TL;DRs get truncated by engines or skipped entirely. Discipline is part of the format. ## The structural setup around the TL;DR 1. **Visual prominence.** Box the TL;DR in a callout div with a colored left border. Engines parse the visual boxing as a structural signal. 2. **Prefix label.** Start the box with the literal text “TL;DR” or “Summary” — engines recognize both as signals to extract this block. 3. **Above-the-fold positioning.** The TL;DR should be the first content block after the H1, before any introduction. 4. **Speakable schema.** Add a SpeakableSpecification pointing to the TL;DR’s CSS selector. Wins voice-assistant queries. 5. **Article schema with mainEntityOfPage.** Helps engines understand what the page’s main entity is. The TL;DR should describe that entity. ## How long should a TL;DR actually be? 2–4 sentences. Roughly 40–80 words. Shorter feels too thin to engines (they skip it). Longer gets truncated in AI Overview previews and Perplexity card displays. The 2–4 sentence range is the consistent sweet spot in my testing. If you can’t fit your answer into 4 sentences, the answer is too complex for a TL;DR. Either the post needs a different focus, or the TL;DR needs to address a narrower slice of the topic and let the body cover the rest. ## Step-by-step: writing a TL;DR for an existing post 1. **Read the post.** What’s the actual answer to the head query? Not what the post covers — what answer does it deliver? 2. **Write the takeaway sentence.** The direct answer, in plain language, without throat-clearing. 3. **Write the why-or-how sentence.** The mechanism, the data, or the framework that justifies the takeaway. 4. **Write the constraint sentence.** When does this apply? When doesn’t it? 5. **Read it back as if you were an AI engine.** Could you lift these sentences directly into a synthesized answer? If yes, ship it. 6. **Wrap in a callout div with the “TL;DR” label.** Position above the post intro. 7. **Add Speakable schema** pointing to the callout’s CSS selector. That sequence takes about 10 minutes per post. Across a top-20 pillar list that’s 3–4 hours of work for a measurable AI-engine citation lift. ## FAQ ### Should every blog post have a TL;DR, or only pillar posts? Pillar posts and any post over 1,500 words. Short news-style posts don’t need one — the post itself is short enough that the TL;DR adds redundancy. ### Does the TL;DR hurt my Google rankings or readability? No — Google’s quality guidelines reward content that answers upfront. Most users prefer it; the readers who don’t want the spoiler can scroll past. Net positive on both metrics in my testing. ### Should I write the TL;DR before or after writing the body? Both approaches work. Writing it first forces clarity about what the post is actually delivering. Writing it after lets you summarize what you actually wrote. I usually draft it first, then revise after the body is done. ### Can AI engines write a TL;DR for me? They can draft one; you should always edit. AI-drafted TL;DRs tend to be too generic (lots of adjectives, no specific numbers, no constraint sentence). Use AI to draft the structure, then rewrite for specificity. ### What’s the difference between a TL;DR and an executive summary? Length, mostly. Executive summaries are usually 1–2 paragraphs (8–15 sentences) and recap the post’s full argument. TL;DRs are 2–4 sentences delivering just the takeaway. AI engines extract from TL;DRs more reliably because the format is more compact and citable. --- **Want help building this on your own site?** [Read the full SEO + GEO playbook](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) or [get in touch](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact/) — I run AI SEO + GEO consulting projects for operator teams that want to compound visibility across both classic Google and AI engines. --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Perplexity SEO: How I Get My Site Cited Inside AI Answers Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/perplexity-seo/ Published: 2026-05-14 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Perplexity cites 5–7 sources per answer, which means the competition for any given citation slot is narrower than the equivalent organic SERP. The structural moves that win Perplexity citations are well-defined: a clean TL;DR, a numbered step-by-step block, an FAQ with literal user-phrasing, and primary-source links the engine can verify. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. TL;DR Perplexity cites 5–7 sources per answer, which means the competition for any given citation slot is narrower than the equivalent organic SERP. The structural moves that win Perplexity citations are well-defined: a clean TL;DR, a numbered step-by-step block, an FAQ with literal user-phrasing, and primary-source links the engine can verify. Here’s the playbook I use to get cited consistently. Search analytics and citations dashboard alejandrorioja.com — AI SEO + GEO *Perplexity cites 5–7 sources per answer. The competition for citation slots is narrower than the equivalent organic SERP — and the structural moves that win citations are well-defined.* ## Why Perplexity is the easiest AI engine to optimize for in 2026 Perplexity has the cleanest source-citation behavior of any of the major AI engines. Each answer cites 5–7 sources, the citations are explicit and clickable, and the citation list is stable across repeat queries (it doesn’t shuffle dramatically the way Google AI Overview citations sometimes do). That stability makes Perplexity the easiest engine to test against. Apply a structural change to a page, query the same Perplexity prompt 24–72 hours later, see whether the citation appears. Iteration cycles are short. The other reason Perplexity is the easy starting point: the field of competition is narrower than classic Google SERP. Five to seven citations vs. ten organic positions. Half-narrower competition for high-intent visibility. ## How Perplexity actually picks sources Based on my testing across hundreds of queries through 2025–2026, Perplexity weights its source selection roughly along these axes: - **Authority signals** — domain reputation, backlink profile, mention frequency in trusted third-party sources. The classic SEO signals matter. - **Topical depth** — pages that comprehensively cover the topic outrank thin pages that just touch it. - **Structural clarity** — pages with clean TL;DRs, FAQs, and step-by-step blocks get cited more reliably than equivalent pages without them. - **Recency** — for time-sensitive queries, recent dateModified matters. For evergreen queries, less so. - **Primary-source citations** — pages that cite the model providers’ own documentation (Anthropic, OpenAI, Google) get cited more often. Likely a trust signal. ## The Perplexity SEO playbook (step-by-step) 1. **Pick your target queries.** Start with 20–30 head terms in your niche. Run each through Perplexity, log the current citation list. The pages cited are your competition. 2. **Identify your candidate pages.** For each query, identify the page on your site that should be cited. If you don’t have a page targeting that query, that’s a content gap to fill. 3. **Audit the candidate page against the structural checklist.** Does it open with a TL;DR? Does it have a numbered step-by-step section? Does it have an FAQ? Does it cite primary sources? Most pages will be missing 2–3 of the four. 4. **Apply the structural overlay.** Add the missing pieces. Don’t rewrite the body; add the structural blocks. 5. **Wait 1–4 weeks.** Re-query Perplexity weekly. Citation usually appears within 4 weeks; sometimes within 4 days. 6. **Track which pages won citations and which didn’t.** The pages that didn’t usually need either more authority work (backlinks) or deeper content depth — the structural overlay alone wasn’t enough. ## What to put in your TL;DR for Perplexity The TL;DR is the single highest-leverage block for Perplexity citations. The engine often lifts your TL;DR text directly into its synthesized answer. What works: - **2–4 sentences.** Longer gets truncated; shorter feels too thin. - **Direct answer first, context second.** Lead with the takeaway. Don’t open with “In this post we’ll explore…” - **Concrete numbers when possible.** “Improved citation rates by 35% across 41 pages” gets cited more than “improved citation rates significantly.” - **Voice neutral enough to be lifted.** First-person is fine; sales-pitch language gets paraphrased away. ## FAQs that win Perplexity citations Perplexity’s answers often include direct quotes from FAQ entries. To win those citations: - **Match literal user phrasing.** “How does X work?” not “Understanding X.” Mirror the question as users actually ask it. - **2–4 sentence answers.** Long enough to be substantive, short enough to be lift-able. - **3–7 questions per FAQ section.** Fewer feels thin; more dilutes the per-question authority. - **Include FAQPage schema.** Perplexity reads JSON-LD when present and uses the structured Q&A pairs preferentially. ## The competitive landscape on Perplexity in 2026 For most SEO/marketing/B2B queries, Perplexity’s citation pool is dominated by a handful of consistent sources: Backlinko, Ahrefs blog, SEMrush blog, Search Engine Journal, Moz, and topic-specific authority sites. Breaking into that pool requires either: 1. **Strong domain authority + structural clarity** — the path I describe in this post. 2. **Original research / data** — Perplexity preferentially cites sources with unique data points it can’t get from rephrased competitor content. 3. **Recent updates on time-sensitive queries** — for “best X in 2026” queries, recently-updated content gets a freshness boost. The combination of all three is what compounds. Authority + structure + original data + freshness is the four-leg stool that gets you cited consistently. ## Tools for tracking Perplexity citations in 2026 - **Profound** — leading specialized tool for AI-engine citation tracking, includes Perplexity coverage. - **Athena** — competitor to Profound, similar feature set. - **Manual sampling** — still the most reliable for citation-source detail. Pick 30 head queries, run them weekly, log citations in a spreadsheet. - **Ahrefs / SEMrush AI tracking** — basic AI Overview presence flags, less depth on Perplexity specifically as of 2026. ## Common Perplexity SEO mistakes - **Optimizing only for ChatGPT and ignoring Perplexity.** The structural moves are the same; the citation-tracking tools differ. If you’re doing GEO work, cover both. - **Stuffing the TL;DR with the focus keyword.** Reads as over-optimized; gets paraphrased away or skipped. - **Treating Perplexity as a Google substitute.** Different engines, different evaluation. Perplexity rewards source clarity and depth more than Google does. - **Skipping primary-source citation links.** Pages that link to Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google’s own docs get cited noticeably more than ones that don’t. ## FAQ ### How long does it take to get cited by Perplexity after applying changes? Median around 12 days in my testing. Range: 4 days to 5 weeks. By 4 weeks if you’re not cited yet, the structural overlay alone isn’t enough — you probably need more authority or deeper content. ### Does Perplexity cite Reddit and forum content? Yes, frequently. Especially for opinion-laden or experience-driven queries. Reddit, Hacker News, and Stack Overflow show up consistently as sources. ### Will blocking PerplexityBot in robots.txt remove me from Perplexity citations? Yes — if you block the crawler, Perplexity can’t cite you. Most publishers in 2026 allow PerplexityBot for the visibility benefit; some IP-sensitive sites block it. Decide based on your IP/visibility tradeoff. ### Does paying for Perplexity Pro affect what gets cited? No — citations are determined by the engine, not the user’s subscription level. Paying doesn’t bias what sources show up. ### Can I track Perplexity citations through Google Analytics? Partially — Perplexity referrals show up as `perplexity.ai` in your traffic source breakdown. But click-through is only one signal; the full citation visibility (whether you appear at all) needs separate tracking. --- **Want help building this on your own site?** [Read the full SEO + GEO playbook](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) or [get in touch](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact/) — I run AI SEO + GEO consulting projects for operator teams that want to compound visibility across both classic Google and AI engines. --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Schema Markup for GEO: The 4 Schema Types That Move AI Citation Rates Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-for-geo/ Published: 2026-05-11 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Schema markup was a Google rich-result tiebreaker in 2024. In 2026 it’s a primary signal for AI engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) — they parse JSON-LD to extract clean, citable answers from pages. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. TL;DR Schema markup was a Google rich-result tiebreaker in 2024. In 2026 it’s a primary signal for AI engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) — they parse JSON-LD to extract clean, citable answers from pages. Four schema types do 90% of the work for GEO: Article, FAQPage, HowTo, and Speakable. This post covers what each one does, when to use it, and the schema mistakes that quietly hurt AI citation rates. Code editor showing JSON-LD alejandrorioja.com — AI SEO + GEO *JSON-LD blocks live in the page or near the closing tag. They’re invisible to humans and high-leverage for AI engines.* ## Why schema matters more for AI engines than it ever did for Google Classic Google has always been able to read your page without schema. Schema was a tiebreaker — it earned you rich results (review stars, FAQ accordions, HowTo cards), but the underlying ranking didn’t depend on it. Generative engines have a different problem. They’re not ranking your page; they’re extracting an answer from it. Without structured data, they have to infer the structure from the raw HTML — possible but lossy and error-prone. With JSON-LD, the extraction is clean. The page becomes machine-readable in a way that raw HTML isn’t. In my testing, adding the four schema types in this post to a previously schema-free pillar post moved AI-engine citation rates by single-digit-to-mid-teens percentage points. That’s real money for a piece of work that takes 20 minutes per post. ## Schema #1: Article Article schema is the foundation. Every blog post on your site should have it. It tells engines who wrote the post, when it was published, when it was last updated, what category it belongs to, and what the headline is. **What to include:** headline, datePublished, dateModified, author (with name and URL), publisher (Organization), image, mainEntityOfPage, description. **The fields that AI engines actually use:** author + dateModified are the high-signal ones. AI engines lean on author for trust attribution; dateModified for freshness. Get both right. **Mistake to avoid:** Setting dateModified to “now” on every page load (some plugins do this) — engines see through it. Only update dateModified when you actually change the content. ## Schema #2: FAQPage FAQPage schema marks up question-and-answer pairs so engines can extract them cleanly. Despite Google’s 2023 removal of FAQ rich results from classic SERPs, generative engines still parse FAQPage and use it heavily. **What to include:** mainEntity array of Question objects, each with name (the question) and acceptedAnswer (the answer text). **When to use it:** any page with an actual FAQ section. Don’t add FAQPage schema to a page without an FAQ — that’s a quality signal worth preserving. **The leverage point:** match the literal phrasing of the questions to how people search. “How long does it take to rank in Google?” gets cited; “Time-to-rank considerations” doesn’t, even if the underlying answer is the same. **Mistake to avoid:** stuffing the FAQ with marketing-style answers. Engines want short, direct, factual answers. If your answer reads like a sales pitch, it gets cited less. ## Schema #3: HowTo HowTo schema marks up step-by-step procedures. It’s the most underused of the four because it requires a real procedure to mark up — but on pages that have one, it’s high-leverage. **What to include:** name (the procedure name), step array (each with name, text, optionally image and url to a section anchor), totalTime, supply, tool. **When to use it:** playbook posts, tutorials, anything with numbered steps. Generative engines pull HowTo schema directly into their answers when a user asks a “how to” query. **The leverage point:** use clear, action-verb step names. “Install the plugin” not “Step 1.” Engines lift the step.name into their summaries. **Mistake to avoid:** marking up a numbered list as HowTo when it’s not actually a procedure. A “10 reasons SEO matters” listicle isn’t a HowTo — it’s an Article with an itemList. Mismatched schema is worse than no schema. ## Schema #4: Speakable Speakable schema is the one most teams skip. It tells voice/audio AI assistants which specific sentence on your page to read aloud when answering a voice query. As voice and AI-assistant queries converge in 2026, Speakable is becoming a real GEO move. **What to include:** a SpeakableSpecification object inside your Article schema, with cssSelector or xpath pointing to the sentence(s) you want read aloud. Usually that’s your TL;DR block. **When to use it:** any pillar post with a clean TL;DR-style answer at the top. The selector points to that block. **The leverage point:** Speakable + a clean TL;DR is what wins voice-assistant queries. Without it, the assistant has to guess which sentence to read. **Mistake to avoid:** pointing Speakable at content that’s not actually a clean answer. The assistant will read whatever you point it at; if it’s awkward, the answer is awkward. ## Step-by-step: adding schema to a pillar post in 20 minutes 1. **Add Article schema** with author + datePublished + dateModified + headline + image + mainEntityOfPage. Most SEO plugins (RankMath, Yoast) do this automatically; verify in Google’s Rich Results Test that it’s present and correct. 2. **Identify the FAQ section.** If there isn’t one, add one — 3–7 questions with literal user-phrasing. 3. **Add FAQPage schema** wrapping the FAQ. RankMath and Yoast can generate this from existing FAQ blocks; verify the output. 4. **Identify the step-by-step section.** If the post has numbered steps that describe a procedure, mark them up as HowTo. Skip if the post doesn’t have one. 5. **Identify the TL;DR block** at the top of the post. Add a Speakable specification pointing to its CSS selector. 6. **Validate** with Google’s Rich Results Test ([search.google.com/test/rich-results](https://search.google.com/test/rich-results)) and Schema.org’s validator. Both should report no errors. 7. **Re-fetch the page in your AI engine of choice** 2–4 weeks later and check whether citation rate moved. Manual sampling is still the most reliable measurement. ## Schema mistakes that hurt AI citation rates - **Schema that doesn’t match the content.** FAQPage on a page without an FAQ. HowTo on a listicle. Article author set to a name that doesn’t appear in the byline. All of these are quality signals engines flag. - **Multiple competing Article objects on the same page.** Some plugins double-emit — verify in your page source that there’s exactly one Article block per post. - **Stale dateModified.** Either too old (signals the page is unmaintained) or set to “now” on every load (signals manipulation). Update only when you actually change content. - **Empty or placeholder fields.** “John Doe” as author, generic Organization with no logo, headline that doesn’t match the actual H1. Engines validate these against page content. - **Schema buried in JavaScript.** Some AI crawlers don’t render JS reliably. Server-side render JSON-LD into the page `head` or right before ``. ## The schema priority order if you’re starting from scratch 1. **Article on every post.** Non-negotiable. Most plugins do this; verify it’s correct. 2. **FAQPage on every post with an FAQ.** Add an FAQ section to your top 20 pillar posts; mark them up. 3. **HowTo on every playbook post with numbered steps.** Don’t force it where it doesn’t belong. 4. **Speakable on every pillar post with a clean TL;DR.** Adds 30 seconds of work per post. That sequence covers ~90% of the schema-driven GEO lift available in 2026. The remaining 10% (Person, Organization, Course, SoftwareApplication, Product) is niche-specific and worth adding case-by-case. ## FAQ ### Do all AI engines use schema markup in 2026? The major ones — ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude — all parse JSON-LD when present. Smaller engines vary. The cost of adding schema is low enough that doing it once covers all engines. ### Which SEO plugin handles schema best for GEO in 2026? RankMath and Yoast both cover the basics well — Article, FAQPage, HowTo. RankMath’s HowTo block is slightly easier to use; Yoast’s FAQ block is tighter. Either is fine. For Speakable, you’ll likely need a custom snippet — neither plugin handles it natively as of 2026. ### Does schema help with classic Google rankings? Indirectly. Google has stated schema isn’t a direct ranking signal, but rich results that schema enables improve CTR, and AI Overview citations from schema’d pages are now a measurable signal that feeds back into traffic. ### Should I add schema to category pages and tag archives? Article schema, no — those aren’t articles. CollectionPage or BreadcrumbList schema, yes — they help engines understand site structure. ### How do I check if my schema is actually working? Google’s Rich Results Test for syntax validation. Manual AI-engine sampling for citation impact. Specialized tools (Schema App, Schema Pro) for ongoing monitoring at scale. The combination is more reliable than any single tool. --- **Want help building this on your own site?** [Read the full SEO + GEO playbook](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) or [get in touch](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact/) — I run AI SEO + GEO consulting projects for operator teams that want to compound visibility across both classic Google and AI engines. --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## How to Get Cited by Google AI Overviews: A 2026 Case Study Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ai-overview-citation-case-study/ Published: 2026-05-07 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Across 50 head terms in the SEO/marketing niche, I tracked Google AI Overview citation rates before and after applying a structural GEO scaffold (TL;DR, numbered step-by-step, FAQ section, primary-source citations) to my pillar posts. Citation frequency went from 4 of 50 to 19 of 50 over six weeks. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. TL;DR Across 50 head terms in the SEO/marketing niche, I tracked Google AI Overview citation rates before and after applying a structural GEO scaffold (TL;DR, numbered step-by-step, FAQ section, primary-source citations) to my pillar posts. Citation frequency went from 4 of 50 to 19 of 50 over six weeks. Here’s the exact methodology, the changes that mattered most, and what didn’t move the needle. Citation tracking dashboard analytics alejandrorioja.com — AI SEO + GEO *I tracked citation rates across 50 head terms before and after applying the GEO scaffold. The structural changes — TL;DR, numbered steps, FAQ — were the lever; classic SEO was the prerequisite.* ## The setup Late 2025 I picked 50 head terms in my niche — SEO, AI SEO, GEO, content marketing tactics — that I either ranked top-5 organically for or had a pillar post targeting. The hypothesis: pages that already rank well organically should be one structural overlay away from being cited inside Google AI Overviews. I wanted to test the size of the effect. The baseline measurement: for each of the 50 terms, I queried Google in a clean browser session (incognito, US English, desktop), screenshotted whether an AI Overview appeared, and logged whether my site was cited as a source. Repeated weekly for three weeks to get a stable baseline. Then applied the GEO scaffold to the corresponding pillar posts and tracked for the next six weeks. ## The baseline Of the 50 head terms, an AI Overview appeared on 41 of them with consistency (showed up in at least 2 of the 3 baseline weeks). My site was cited on 4 of those 41. Citation rate: roughly 10%. The 4 already-cited posts had something in common — they all opened with a clear, quotable single-paragraph answer to the head query, even though I hadn’t structured them deliberately as a TL;DR block. So the engine was finding a citable chunk, just not optimally. ## The intervention For each of the 41 AI-Overview-triggering pillar posts, I applied a four-part structural overlay: 1. **TL;DR block** at the top — 2–4 sentences answering the head query directly. Boxed in a callout-style div for visual prominence. 2. **Numbered step-by-step section** somewhere in the body. Where the post already had ordered content, I tightened the numbering and made sure the H2 above it described the procedure clearly. Where the post lacked one, I wrote one. 3. **FAQ section** at the bottom — 3–7 questions using literal phrasing people search, with 2–4 sentence answers. Marked up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Primary-source citations** — links to Google’s own AI Overviews docs, OpenAI/Anthropic blog posts, original research. The hypothesis: LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. What I deliberately did not change: the title tag, the URL slug, the existing body content, the image set. The intervention was purely additive structural overlay. Time investment per post: 30–60 minutes for the new content (TL;DR + FAQ), plus 5 minutes for schema markup. Across 41 posts the rollout took about three weeks of part-time work. ## The result By the end of week 6 post-intervention, my site was being cited as a source on 19 of the 41 AI Overviews. Citation rate: 46%, up from 10%. The lift wasn’t uniform. The breakdown: - **15 posts gained citations and held them.** These were the posts where the TL;DR cleanly answered a question phrasing matching how the AI Overview was framing the query. - **4 posts gained citations but lost them again within 2 weeks.** The engine seemed to test them, then prefer a more authoritative source. These were lower-DR posts in head-term niches. - **22 posts saw no citation change.** Mostly posts where the AI Overview was citing 2–3 entrenched competitors (Backlinko, Ahrefs blog) and didn’t add a 4th. Domain authority was likely the gating factor. ## What moved the needle (in order of impact) 1. **The TL;DR block** — by far the biggest lever. The pages where the engine could lift a clean 2–3 sentence answer from the top of the post were the pages that gained citations. 2. **FAQ schema markup** — a real but smaller bump, mostly on question-style head terms (“how to”, “what is”, “why does”). 3. **Primary-source citation links** — modest bump, harder to attribute cleanly. The pages I cited primary sources on did slightly better than ones I didn’t, controlling for everything else. 4. **The numbered step-by-step section** — useful for “how to” head terms specifically. Less impact on definitional or comparison terms. ## What didn’t move the needle (or moved it backwards) - **Adding more H2s** just to break up the post. Engines don’t reward more headings; they reward better structure. - **Stuffing the TL;DR with the head keyword.** The pages where the TL;DR felt over-optimized got cited less, not more. The engines prefer natural phrasing. - **Adding extra schema types** beyond Article + FAQPage + HowTo. Speakable, Person, Organization didn’t move citation rates; in some cases they correlated negatively (possibly because they were misapplied). - **Bumping the published date** without a substantive content change. Engines weren’t fooled by the date alone; they parsed the actual content. ## Methodology notes / caveats - **Sample size is small.** 41 posts, 6 weeks. The directional finding is solid; the specific percentages have meaningful variance. - **One niche, one site.** Results in other niches with different competitive landscapes will vary. - **AI Overview personalization.** Even in clean incognito sessions, AI Overview results vary by user/location/time. I sampled at multiple times of day and locations to smooth this; some noise remains. - **Domain authority as the floor.** The intervention worked best on pages where I was already top-5 organically. Pages outside the top-5 didn’t benefit from structural changes alone — domain authority was the gating constraint. ## What I’d tell someone running this on their own site 1. **Audit your top-50 organic-traffic pages first.** Those are your best candidates for this intervention because they already have the authority floor. 2. **Check which of those pages trigger an AI Overview.** Manual sampling for now (Profound and Athena are starting to automate it). The pages that trigger an AI Overview but don’t cite you are the immediate opportunity. 3. **Apply the four structural changes.** TL;DR → numbered steps → FAQ → primary-source citations. Don’t change the body content beyond that on the first pass. 4. **Track for 6 weeks, then evaluate.** Some pages gain citations within days; others take a month. Six weeks is long enough to see whether the lift is real and stable. 5. **Don’t expect 100% conversion.** Realistic target is 30–50% of your AI-Overview-triggering pages getting cited after the intervention. The rest are blocked by competitive authority you’d need to address separately. ## FAQ ### Did the intervention hurt classic Google rankings? No — net positive across the cohort. Most pages saw small ranking improvements (probably from the structural quality signal); 4 saw small drops (probably noise). No catastrophic ranking losses. ### How long until citations show up after applying the changes? Fastest I saw was 4 days; median was about 12 days; some took 4–5 weeks. Six weeks is the right horizon to evaluate. ### What’s the most underrated change in this intervention? FAQPage schema. Cheap to add, real measurable impact, and Google’s removal of FAQ rich results from classic SERPs (back in 2023) made a lot of teams stop adding it. In the AI-search era it’s back as a high-leverage move. ### Should I do this on every page or just the top organic ones? Top organic pages first — that’s where the leverage is. Once those are done, expand to the next tier. Don’t apply blindly to every page; thin pages don’t benefit and the structural overlay can feel forced on content that doesn’t need it. ### How do I track AI Overview citations at scale? In 2026 the leading specialized tools are Profound and Athena. SEMrush and Ahrefs have added basic AI Overview presence flags. Manual sampling is still the most reliable for citation-source detail; the tools are good for trend/volume tracking. --- **Want help building this on your own site?** [Read the full SEO + GEO playbook](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) or [get in touch](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact/) — I run AI SEO + GEO consulting projects for operator teams that want to compound visibility across both classic Google and AI engines. --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## The llms.txt Playbook: Setup, Examples, and Why It Matters for AI Search Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/llms-txt-playbook/ Published: 2026-05-04 Tags: SEO TL;DR: up top, numbered step-by-step blocks, FAQ at the bottom, primary-source citations. Section: AI SEO + GEO (pillar posts) — 10 pillar pages with one-line descriptions. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. TL;DR llms.txt is a plain-text file at your site root that tells LLM crawlers (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Gemini) what to find on your site and where to find it. It takes 20 minutes to write, requires no plugin, and meaningfully changes how generative engines discover and prioritize your pages. This is the full setup playbook — what to put in it, what to leave out, and how to keep it current. Plain-text file structure alejandrorioja.com — AI SEO + GEO *llms.txt is a plain-text file at your site root — that’s it. No plugin, no schema markup, no compiler. Just a markdown-flavored list of your important pages.* ## What llms.txt actually is llms.txt is a plain-text file you put at the document root of your site (alongside `robots.txt` and `sitemap.xml`). The proposed standard lives at [llmstxt.org](https://llmstxt.org/) — Jeremy Howard floated it in 2024, and through 2025 it became one of the de facto signals AI engines use to figure out what a site is about and which pages matter. The format is markdown-flavored. An H1 with the site name, a blockquote with a one-paragraph summary, then H2 sections each containing bullet lists of important pages, formatted like `- (URL): Optional description`. That’s the whole spec. It’s intentionally that simple, because the point is to be machine-readable without requiring the AI engine to parse and render JavaScript-heavy site navigation, sitemaps, schema, and 50,000 internal links. ## Why it matters in 2026 Generative engines have a discovery problem. They can crawl your site, sure — but figuring out which pages on a 1,000-post blog are actually the canonical, high-quality answers worth citing is a real cost. A clean llms.txt cuts through that. It tells the engine: *here are my pillar posts, here are my case studies, here are my most up-to-date guides — start here*. In my own logs I’ve watched AI-engine citation rates shift after publishing llms.txt. Not dramatic — usually a few percentage points within the first few weeks — but consistent across the pillar posts I called out in the file. The engines do read it. ## What to put in your llms.txt 1. **Site title** — H1, one line. 2. **One-paragraph summary** — blockquote (`>`), 2–4 sentences. State who you are, what topics you cover, and the structural conventions of your pillar posts (e.g., “every flagship post has a TL;DR, step-by-step, and FAQ”). 3. **Pillar / canonical pages** — H2 section, bullet list of 8–15 most important pages. These are the pages you most want LLMs to cite. 4. **Adjacent / supporting pages** — H2 section, bullet list of secondary content the engine should know about. 5. **About / author info** — H2 section, link to your author page and any voice-reference posts. 6. **Citation policy** — H2 section, one short paragraph: how you want to be cited, what’s your attribution preference, when the file was last updated. ## What NOT to put in - **Every page on your site.** That’s what sitemap.xml is for. llms.txt is the curated subset. - **Marketing copy.** Engines reading llms.txt aren’t end-users you’re persuading. Be direct, descriptive, factual. - **Outdated pages.** Worse than no llms.txt is a stale one. If you can’t keep it current, don’t publish it. - **Affiliate-heavy roundups** as your top pillar pages. Engines down-weight content that reads as primarily commercial. ## The two-file pattern: llms.txt + llms-full.txt The convention that’s emerged in 2026 is two files, not one. `llms.txt` is the curated short version (the 8–15 pillar pages plus structure). `llms-full.txt` is the longer version with every page on the site, paginated by section, with snippets and last-modified dates. Both serve different LLM crawler behaviors. The short one is read at the discovery layer; the full one is read when the engine wants to enumerate your content for a deeper query. Publish both. ## Step-by-step: setting up llms.txt in under 30 minutes 1. **Pick your 8–15 pillar pages.** The pages you most want cited in AI engines. Usually your highest-traffic evergreen posts, plus any case studies or original research. 2. **Write a 2–4 sentence summary of your site.** Who you are, what topics you cover, what structural conventions your pillar posts follow. 3. **Format as markdown.** H1 site name, blockquote summary, H2 “Pillars” section with the bullet list, H2 “Adjacent” section if relevant, H2 “About” section. 4. **Save as plain text** with the filename `llms.txt` (or `llms-full.txt` for the longer version). 5. **Upload to your site root** via SFTP, cPanel File Manager, or whatever access method you have. The file goes alongside `index.php` and `robots.txt`. 6. **Verify** with `curl -I https://yoursite.com/llms.txt` — you should see `HTTP/2 200` with `content-type: text/plain`. 7. **Add a MIME type rule** to your `.htaccess` if needed: `ForceType text/plain`. 8. **Refresh quarterly.** Add new pillar posts, remove ones that no longer fit. A 6-month-old llms.txt is fine; a 2-year-old one is worse than none. ## Example: this site’s llms.txt structure For reference, the llms.txt I publish on alejandrorioja.com follows the structure above: - **H1:** Alejandro Rioja - **Summary:** Personal site of Alejandro Rioja, an SEO operator focused on AI SEO and GEO. The site publishes long-form case studies, step-by-step playbooks, and original-data takes on how to rank in both classic Google search and generative engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude). Every flagship post is structured for AI/LLM ingestion: TL;DR up top, numbered step-by-step blocks, FAQ at the bottom, primary-source citations. - **Section: AI SEO + GEO (pillar posts)** — 10 pillar pages with one-line descriptions. - **Section: Adjacent SEO and tooling posts** — 8 supporting pages. - **Section: About** — author profile and voice references. - **Section: Citation policy** — attribution preference + last-refreshed date. You can see the live file at `https://alejandrorioja.com/llms.txt` once it’s deployed. The structure is the same one I’d recommend for any operator-style personal-brand or B2B content site. ## Common llms.txt mistakes I see - **Treating it like a sitemap.** A 5,000-line llms.txt with every URL on the site is nearly useless. Curate. - **Writing the summary in marketing voice.** Engines aren’t customers; describe yourself the way a directory entry would. - **Forgetting to update.** Set a calendar reminder to refresh quarterly. Stale entries hurt more than missing ones. - **Skipping the descriptions.** The one-line description after each link is what helps the engine decide whether to cite the page for a given query. Don’t omit it. - **Putting llms.txt in a subdirectory.** Has to be at the document root. Engines don’t look anywhere else. ## FAQ ### Do all AI engines read llms.txt in 2026? Not all of them, but the ones that matter increasingly do — Perplexity, ChatGPT (browse mode), and Claude all parse it. Google AI Overviews have signaled support but it’s less clear how heavily it weights into Overview source selection. Treat it as positive expected value with low downside. ### Will llms.txt help my classic Google rankings? Indirectly at most. Google’s classic ranking is driven by sitemap.xml, internal linking, and the rest of the on-page/off-page stack. llms.txt is specifically for AI engine discovery, not for classic search rankings. ### How often should I update llms.txt? Quarterly is the right cadence for most sites. More often if you’re publishing pillar content frequently; less often if your top 10 pages are stable. Always update when you launch a major new pillar post. ### Can I use a WordPress plugin to manage llms.txt? A few have appeared in 2026 (search the WP plugin directory for “llms.txt”). They mostly auto-generate the file from your published content. Useful if you don’t have SFTP access, but the auto-generated version usually needs hand-editing to be actually curated rather than dump-everything. ### What if my host doesn’t allow root file uploads? Two workarounds: (1) a small must-use plugin that registers a virtual `/llms.txt` route serving the content from the database; (2) Cloudflare Workers if your site is on Cloudflare — serve the file from the worker without touching the WP host. Both are documented; the mu-plugin approach is the simpler of the two. --- **Want help building this on your own site?** [Read the full SEO + GEO playbook](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) or [get in touch](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact/) — I run AI SEO + GEO consulting projects for operator teams that want to compound visibility across both classic Google and AI engines. --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Exploring Ahrefs As An SEO Tool: A Review Of Tools And Features Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Ahrefs is one of the two leading all-in-one SEO platforms (alongside SEMrush) and has added AI-search tracking features through 2025-2026. The review below covers the platform’s capabilities. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Ahrefs is one of the two leading all-in-one SEO platforms (alongside SEMrush) and has added AI-search tracking features through 2025-2026. The review below covers the platform’s capabilities. This update adds an FAQ on Ahrefs in a 2026 GEO workflow, without modifying pricing, feature, or competitor-comparison sections. *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* I find it refreshing how websites have evolved over the years. When I first started one, what I only knew was to continuously update the design every few months and update it with fresh content every day. Now, I have excellent access to a multitude of [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) that I can use to make content and increase my website’s rank efficiently. These tools have been used by various websites so that they can be as high-ranking as [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/), [Lifehacker](https://lifehacker.com/), and [Ann Handley](https://annhandley.com/). In this article, I will be giving my honest review on [Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com/), one of the many available tools I used to raise my website. My goal is to help you decide whether this fits you well for your needs. Before diving into the app, here’s a video that you should watch to remind you why having SEO on your website is essential: ## About Ahrefs Ahrefs is a paid SEO software suite. It is known to be one of the most extensive website crawlers next to Google. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZeTs4RLCT1pFD5ZPeQUi0JGw5KwRMHCTDxkn7E1hU_Js7PlvGJ3IVMP8G-c6HzVNBqvu0KOf_LEk_jv2CWgZgSzSvrByZpCAn4un5yPmZ6w1WWdqeNnWzjYooJ7VWbJv_-WDdHrO) It is known to be a tool that various website owners use for their research and analysis to effectively optimize theirs for different search engines. Even if its focus has initially been for backlink analysis, it has added various features over the years for its users to make use of it entirely to keep one’s website on top of every new content published. Relevant: [Also read my review of Uber Suggest here](https://alejandrorioja.com/ubersuggest-review/) ## Tools and Features In this section, let us explore the five main categories of Ahrefs: 1. Backlinks Explorer 2. Keywords Explorer 3. Content Explorer 4. Rank Tracker 5. Alerts ### Backlinks Explorer This feature of Ahrefs is where you can view a detailed profile for your website or your competitor. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/GvxZLaShxApNvUsC4Wu-muKsfBpS6XxlNS2oZqgrBtY_h5EjBJAw8GyenqWBUyQrDinDZyQSmbKIac9sVJFlfc71nLhDhQUHVQ3NPQaX3_KWfMaLxQRpqlvw_kRIbghAU_aKzI9F) *(Source: Ahrefs.com)* It has three parts: - Organic traffic research This module helps you view which [keywords your website’s competitors are ranking for](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup/) and which pages bring the most traffic from search engines. - Backlink checker To learn whether your competitors have used any of your websites in their content, this is where you can view them. This module will help you also check whether their profiles have quality backlinks so that you can decide which ones you can include in your future content. - Paid traffic research Finally, this part is where you can learn whether your competitor is investing in paid search advertising. Aside from that, you can also learn where they use this paid traffic. #### How to use To use this module, open Ahrefs and navigate to its “Site Explorer” module. You are then redirected to a screen that would ask you to enter a website’s URL, and it will bring up a generated report of its backlinks, metrics, and organic traffic. #### Tips and Tricks To avoid nofollow links, after bringing up the URL’s generated report in the Site Explorer, go to “Backlinks” → “Link Type → “Dofollow.” Use the generated list of links to use for your future content and help you and your competitor gain backlinks to each other. You can also check which backlinks are present in two or more websites that you can add to your future content by going to the top navigation → “More” → “Link Intersect.” Now, if you want to know which topic you should do to get the most number of clicks for your website, you can check a website’s “Best By Links” after looking one up using this module.  In this article, they cited an example as to how the author was able to gain a ton of clicks after learning from Ahref’s report of the website Moz that their ultimate guides brought the most traffic. ### Keywords Explorer As I have mentioned that this is the application’s main focus, they have a database of search queries, one of the world’s largest that came from a third-party company. They cited that they have a bank of over 7 billion keywords with updates every month. Aside from that, it is retrieved from 171 different countries. This data is also retrieved from different search engines such as Google, Youtube, Bing, and Baidu.  Aside from that, they also feature how hard it would be to rank using any keyword searched, an estimate of how many clicks it can bring to one’s website, and whether you can rank while using a specific keyword while targeting a general topic in your content. If you want to [research the SEO strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/) that any one of your competitors used to make theirs work, Ahrefs also includes SEO metrics, ranking history, return rate, percentage of clicks, and percentage of paid clicks. After getting all this info, the suite also features a save function so that you can go back to these and keep yourself up-to-date on that keyword.  #### How to use You enter a keyword into their Keywords Explorer module. It then brings up a report that includes search volume and keyword competition. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/84tIUIq1Wqb25GdfoHjm68xOnmtaKFxIVyE1wzYA8ZW13HNlH8qPNSjXB0JJcXu9nizKgb2hpLw1IfrB41R-U7kjl99FKw8j5iQwoPHm4gHkv0fcvFbGVuzQTi7bF_6ltdH-EumE) #### Tips and Tricks Keep in mind the following metrics in this module’s report to choose between which two or more keywords to make content first: 1. Return rate – how often people search for a keyword more than once 2. Number of clicks – how often people browse the content of this keyword 3. Difference between clicks on paid results versus clicks on organic results – compare clicks made through investing in paid results versus clicks made through organic search results 4. Clicks per search – number of times a user clicks an article related to this keyword 5. First page results of the keyword – learn whether you reached the first page of results for the content you wrote for the keyword and which one of your competitors reached this level. ### Content Explorer If the previous module features statistics on a specific keyword, this module features items that would help you assess your content with other websites’ contents. You can search their database of content based on the following filters: 1. Published once/Republished 2. Published/First published date 3. Live/Broken 4. Language 5. Social shares 6. Domain rating 7. Referring domains 8. Organic traffic 9. Number of words 10. Traffic value 11. Site 12. Author Aside from looking at results based on those filters, one can also check more details of each published content to learn more about [why it is over performing or underperforming](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/). This module also features a chart of trends for any topic of your choice over time, including information on brand mentions and the amount of content your competitors are publishing. Users can also check this module against published content for live links, dead links, and referring domains. It will help you get an idea of what article you can make into newer content for your webpage and get a lot of backlinks at the same time. Aside from these, you can also check for which topic you want your article to be backlinked to using their “Highlight unlinked domains” feature. You can also opt to look for unlinked mentions as well using your website’s brand. #### How to use For this module, all you have to do is visit Content Explorer and enter a keyword or topic into its search bar. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/0EzB9TV_CWAYIqJwh5ZQ4Le_8gI1WsB7aJGqEy5V82zONxfxbWcSVIh1Oayt93b7Ct6sijYIEouHnJ-r_ay0_YXzCuRuuA7NdNgDfnBwFM8cYeNgLuYv1pFL4FxEAG61vX5OTB7f) Then, it will show you a list of articles where you can sort by date, language, and word count, among others. #### Tips and Tricks Make sure to check this list regularly when finding a new topic to write about for your website. Doing this will help you not only get clicks due to organic search results but also clicks from social media websites. ### Rank Tracker Speaking of competitors, Ahrefs also has a feature that would help measure how competitive you are in your search rankings. After entering a list of keywords, a list of countries per keyword, and a list of competitor URLs, Ahrefs generates a report about your rankings.  The report generated will feature at least these three things: - Visibility This section of the report will show how much of the clicks came from organic search traffic landings. - Average position and traffic If you want to know how high up or low you are in the search rankings, this section shows a snapshot of your progress over time. - Positions distribution For this part of the report, you can choose how far your website has come based on the ranking groups determined by the application’s data. #### How to use After clicking on the “Rank Tracker” tab in Ahrefs, it shows a screen that lets you enter keywords of your choice. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/cgT5mTbXh0mIfMMK9zQkDQVc_rr5ZEtCo-InBiW9tit6wxwx4BJKs3p83K7HCZ1voaNF3pDewn76WF4HfsvsqVoRQGlOc9csozn2sTHeQCa1evBdZGDLwJk4k_itrYd3SdPeRIDj) After entering the keywords, Ahrefs then shows metrics, including the number of written content for it and which website URL ranks the highest among them. #### Tips and Tricks Update this list regularly with keywords you are aiming to write about or which topics you have already written. Doing this will help you plan out how to rank higher for past and future content at the same time.  ### Alerts In this main module of Ahrefs, it helps provide you regular updates based on these three items: web mentions, new backlinks, lost backlinks, and new keywords. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ZffMYBON0GUpdnIdvbWp4oo-IXz-SUTMeT0fcAbQhFA2d7vlNyM9xmZsqWHyPPPsal0p8f7oH0QYzAUgaaKEU6nWqs_ZHiRhcBaHSAt0drMY0XMBsmnFTq-wSUci24xd9jaHPWkL) On new backlinks, the application can provide whether a particular website has gained or lost backlinks. If you are thinking of increasing your ranks, this is helpful as you can gauge your competitor’s activity and build a counter-strategy against it. Aside from learning your competitor’s backlink activity, the application can also give you information on what they have to say with your brand or your competitor’s brand. It can also help you learn not only which keywords you can write in your future content but also be able to find future backlinks for each of them as well. #### How to use Navigate to the Ahref tab “Site Audit,” enter your website on the screen that follows and determine how deep the crawl will be in the screens that follow.  For a more in-depth tutorial on how to use it, check out this video: #### Tips and Tricks According to Databox’s [interview](https://databox.com/how-to-use-ahrefs-for-seo) with James Pollard, he says that these features should be used by all users of Ahrefs as soon as they get it. Doing this will help owners, like you, get a better view of your website and know how to position yourself for growth by fixing any weaknesses found by the said module. ## Pricing As mentioned at the beginning of this review, this SEO tool is a paid software suite. On their website, there are three kinds of plans you can choose: Lite, Standard, and Advanced. Aside from that, you can opt for paying every month or purchase a plan for a whole year. Among them, only their Lite and Standard plans have a 7-day paid trial access and can alone let one user make use of them, trial or not. Aside from their price, they also list which of their features are associated with each of the modules I explained in the previous section of this review. For example, the recently lost backlinks to historically lost backlinks under the Site Explorer feature will not be shown to the Lite subscribers while Standard and Advanced subscribers have access to this. ## Strengths As they have claimed to have an updated database with regards to website metrics, this is a strong consideration when it comes to getting this product for yourself. Aside from that, they also have support for you to compare different websites per keyword and content. Their enormous database then displays its data through a minimalistic navigation interface. It helps make the information easy-to-read. ## Weaknesses While I was using this, I noticed how I had to get used to using it at first. Emma Jansen told Databox in an [interview](https://databox.com/how-to-use-ahrefs-for-seo) that she experienced this too while using the software. With that in mind, that means getting used to this software is easier if you know SEO to the point where you are familiar with the related metrics such as click-through rate (CTR) and search rankings. Filtering their massive database to get the needed data can also be a daunting challenge as Haines [says](https://databox.com/how-to-use-ahrefs-for-seo) to Databox that it took him an hour or two to just enter keywords on the software’s Site Explorer.  Meanwhile, Hundrev [cautions](https://databox.com/how-to-use-ahrefs-for-seo) future users that the software may not be able to get their data regarding SERP ranking as up-to-date as possible when using the software. Also, Bassos [points](https://databox.com/how-to-use-ahrefs-for-seo) out that there is a daily limit to using the Site Explorer tool on some plans as well. ## Wrapping Up! In short, Ahrefs is a paid software application where you, as a website owner, can do your research. From checking which keyword gets the most clicks to how far your website ranking is, it can help you not only chart how you want your website to grow but also keep abreast of current trends in content at the same time.  On the other hand, getting around the interface can be daunting when you get it for the first time. Aside from that, you would have to make sure you have enough funds to not only try out whether it is a good fit for your SEO needs and then extra to subscribe to the plan of your choice. Overall, I believe that this application is suited for website owners who are earning enough from their content to get this much-personalized info of themselves and their competitors. Was this review of Ahrefs helpful? If you want to increase your website’s rankings, here are a few more articles you can read if you want to learn more: 1. [Tips to conduct technical SEO audit](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) 2. [Review of Ezoic: Features and how to use](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) 3. [Top 9 search engines of 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) Let me know in the comments below what other SEO guide would you like to see on my blog? ## Ahrefs in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how Ahrefs fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Does Ahrefs track AI Overview citations in 2026? Yes — Ahrefs added AI Overview presence flags and basic citation source visibility through 2025-2026. Coverage is improving; for deeper analysis pair with a specialized AI-search tool. ### Is Ahrefs better than SEMrush for AI search work in 2026? Roughly comparable — both have added AI-search features at similar depth. Pick based on existing workflow preference; switching for AI-search reasons alone isn’t justified. ### Is the Ahrefs Site Explorer still the best backlink tool in 2026? It’s still the leading backlink data source. The AI-search additions are bolted on top of the classic backlink/keyword stack rather than replacing it. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Simple Amazon SEO Guide for 2026: Crack the Algorithm Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Amazon SEO is still mostly about Amazon’s A10 algorithm — keywords in title/bullets/backend, conversion rate, reviews, sales velocity. What’s new in 2026 is that AI engines now route product-research queries (best/top/comparison searches) to a mix of Amazon listings and external review sites. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Amazon SEO is still mostly about Amazon’s A10 algorithm — keywords in title/bullets/backend, conversion rate, reviews, sales velocity. What’s new in 2026 is that AI engines now route product-research queries (best/top/comparison searches) to a mix of Amazon listings and external review sites. Sellers with external content footprint get cited more in those AI answers. The Amazon-internal mechanics below still apply; the GEO section adds the external play. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line People who search on Amazon are 3x more likely to purchase than people who search on Google which makes ranking well on Amazon a very important step for your business. ASO (Amazon Store Optimization) is a set of optimizations that help your listings page to rank higher with the relevant keywords. Things that fall under ASO are better images, a higher number of reviews, better keyword targeting, etc. But that’s not all. Other factors that affect your rankings on Amazon are stock availability, text match relevancy, product price, sales velocity, and more. Sales velocity is crucial and you can increase it by including contextual information, using high-quality images, using bullet-points, encouraging legit reviews, using flash sales, and more. Unicorn Smasher and MerchantWords, KeywordsEverywhere, and AMZtracker are some of the best tools that can help you out in this process. When I started my first e-commerce business, [Flux Chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/), we [struggled a lot getting sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). There were so many things to focus on from customer development to [PR](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) to [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) that frankly we left [our Flux Amazon store](https://www.amazon.com/sp?seller=A2DVX2S8JHC5W6) behind. Little did we know that a simple set of tweaks would take us [from $100/mo to $100,000/mo in sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). The beauty of ranking well on Amazon is that people who search on Amazon are 3x more likely to purchase than people who search on Google. In this post, I’ve included my **best Amazon store optimization tricks**, all tried and true. At the end I’ll also show you how to find profitable products if you haven’t decided what to sell yet. Hope you enjoy this guide! (If you do, share it!) ## **What is Amazon ASO/SEO?** ASO stands for Amazon Store Optimization. Most people also refer to it as Amazon SEO ([Search Engine Optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)). In short, it is a set of optimizations that you can do your listings page to help it rank higher for the keywords that matter the most to you and your buyers. Those improvements can include: better images, higher number of reviews, [better keyword targeting](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), and more that I’ll cover below. ### **How Does SEO Work for Amazon?** In essence, Amazon SEO is very similar to [pure Google SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Having a great experience (i.e. a thorough product description, beautiful pictures, and great reviews) will lead to higher rankings on the Amazon search engine. This is turn will lead to more searches, and eventually more sales. Let’s dive into these concepts in much more depth by first understanding how the Amazon searches are powered… **Amazon’s A9 – the new search engine** ## **What is the A9 Algorithm?** Amazon’s A9 algorithm is what determines which products show up when you do a search (i.e. “baby wipes”) and in which order those products appear. *(The division that builds, maintains, and makes improvements to Amazon’s search engine is called the “A9 Division”. The search engine is called A9 because the word algorithm has 9 letters and the A represents Amazon)* The A9 algorithm powers Amazon’s search box, which decides what product recommendations it should show the user by using data from thousands of queries that people already created. These recommendations are also modified by the **customer’s past purchases** and shopping preferences, and as well as other factors including price and shipping times. A lot of sellers don’t realize the importance of optimizing their Amazon’s listings. I’ve seen countless of products that have meager descriptions and fail to even entice me to buy. Compared to the time and effort that you could spend on [ranking a site on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/), it is much simpler and faster to crack Amazon’s algorithm. And quite similar to Google, optimizing your Amazon’s search rankings is necessary because: 1. 35% of online shoppers click **only** on the first featured product on a search page 2. About 70% of shoppers never click on the second page of results 3. The first few products usually take away around 64% of the clicks Now let’s look at how to rank #1 on Amazon… ## **Factors that Affects Amazon Rankings** The Amazon’s rankings can be influenced by both direct and indirect factors. ## **The Direct Factors** ### **1) Stock availability** Needless to say, but if your product has run out of stock and won’t be in stock anytime soon, Amazon might demote or remove your listing completely.   ### **2) Text Match Relevancy** The most important direct factor is the text match relevancy. That is how well does your product title, description and copy match the keywords typed by the user? Notice for instance the title we are using on our [Flux portable charger](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/): *Flux* ***Portable Charger*** *4,000 mAh, Ultra Slim* ***External Battery Pack*** *with Built in Cords for* ***iPhone Xs, iPhone X, iPhone 8s, iPhone 8, Galaxy s7, Galaxy s7 Edge*** *(Premium Aluminum* ***Power Bank****)* We have aimed to include the most relevant keywords that most of our buyers could use, i.e. portable charger for iPhone 8s. This helps that listing rank high for any given combination of {portable charger, battery pack, power bank} + {phone model}. ### **3) Product Price** Amazon wants to offer you the best product and a reasonable price, since their main focus is to have happy customers. Therefore, if you are selling a commodity product or a product that is very similar from your competitors, you will need to have a price differentiator to rank higher. ## **How to pick a good product Title on Amazon** Having a great product title is key when it comes to increasing your Amazon sales. Therefore, this part should be completed without thorough keyword research. A simple way to do this is to type your target keyword (i.e. vacuum cleaner) and see what other people have picked as their titles. Below is a quick list of the title elements that Amazon recommends to sellers: 1. Brand 2. The actual name of the product 3. Packaging quantity 4. Product line 5. Material 6. Color 7. Product types 8. And other modifiers such as size (small, medium, large), weight For example, here’s Juan Valdez’ coffee description: *Juan Valdez Gourmet Balanced Colombian Coffee, Organic Ground, 10 oz* When you are creating your listing you want to make sure you pick a product category that is as narrow as possible, that way you can win the “Amazon’s choice” tag. ![](/images/posts/inline/f7e1209b-camera-with-product-on-table_925x.jpg) **How to create an amazing Amazon product copy** Similarly as in the product title, you want your product description to not only be keyword-rich but also useful to the user. A great way to do this is to reverse engineer the top results for the particular keywords you are targeting. First, search your desired keyword (“dining table”) Then, open the top 7-10 results on a new tab and take note of any interesting keywords that either keep popping up or that are an excellent USP unique selling proposition (i.e. “with chairs included” or “lifetime warranty”) What I like to do now is put all that information into a spreadsheet (brand, title, price, reviews, description, top keywords) and try to come up with a product and product description that beats them in at least 2-3 categories. By doing this you will not only gather a solid amount of keywords but you will have also analyzed all your competitors, their strengths and shortcomings. Now make sure your product copy has a healthy balance between keywords and [the right words that are going to make you sell more](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). ## **Indirect Factors** Now let’s talk about many other factors that indirectly affect Amazon rankings. **The Key to Amazon Rankings is Sales Velocity** Another important metric that Amazon takes into account is how fast your product is selling, or sales velocity. If you can sell inventory on a daily basis, that’s great. Even better if you can sell multiple per hour. Nothing can move you up the Amazon search ranks like the sales velocity. Amazon’s ultimate goal is to maximize revenue per customer (RPC). Therefore, it keeps promoting those products who are selling the best, because that represents the most earnings opportunity for them. ## **How can you sell more on Amazon and increase your sales velocity?** Here are a few things that work: ### **1)Include Contextual Information** Adding additional contextual information in your Amazon listing will help you increase your sales. Contextual information can include things like hidden features, wow factors, reviews from reputable sources (“as seen on CNBC”), software compatibility (PC/Mac), etc. As an example, when you search an item in Amazon’s search box, let’s say for example a “scanner”, you would see lots of additional keyword results as a suggestion. With this kind of information, you can recommend contextual information, such as: - Does the product offer a feature that your competitors haven’t thought of yet? - Does it fit in the pocket? - Can it be used in PCs? Is it compatible with Macbooks? - Is the scanner compatible with other additional IOTs? When you answer these kinds of questions in your product’s customer concerns, you can increase conversations with your customers. ### **2) Use Beautiful High-Quality Images** Make sure to use large, high-quality product images to enable the app’s zoom function. According to the recommendations of Amazon, the images should at least be 1000×1000 pixels, as it would enable their zoom function on their site. (The smallest file should be at least 500x500px.) The zoom function has been proven to increase sales, and it is very helpful for potential buyers as it allows them to have a closer view of the product. Multiple images also allow the customer to view the product from different angles, read nutritional labels, warnings, and get a feel for the size and shape of the product. Some sellers have also reported that adding 360-degree rotating images increased their conversion rates [about 27%](https://conversionxl.com/blog/how-images-can-boost-your-conversion-rate/). ### **3\. Consider Using Bullet Points** On Amazon’s product descriptions, using bullet points has been proven to be another opportunity for you to increase your product’s conversion rates. Bullets points make the content much easier to read than just reading a block of texts, which help increase conversion rates. They can also clarify your product’s features, which will be indexed by Amazon’s algorithm to boost search rankings. Make sure your bullet points are extremely detailed. I also like to use the checkmark emoji as a bullet point which creates a positive psychological association with the product. ### **4\. Use an Enhanced Amazon Brand Content** You can really make your content shine with the help of the A+ Tool and [Enhanced Brand Content](https://sellercentral.amazon.com/gp/help/external/202102950). With the Amazon Enhanced Brand Content tool, you can modify the description field of your products, allowing you to add more images and even a company storyline. Different brands can enhance texts and images, and then add various design aspects to their product’s description. Also, building a very strong brand by means of a[ppearing on publications such as Forbes, Techcrunch or Fox](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) will help a ton. ### **5\. Ran out of creativity for your Amazon Descriptions?** Sometimes you just hit writer’s block and can’t think of anything to put on your products description. Maybe you’ve read [all my marketing articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) and still can’t quite find the right words to put together an stellar product copy. What do you do now? You look at your competitor and their product reviews, and use their exact language in your copy. Why this works: Since you are using the words that your potential customers already use, you will create a much better connection with them through your messaging. ### **6\. (Big booster) Encourage Product Reviews** Social proof is massive. About 84% of customers trust online reviews [as much as they trust their friend’s recommendations](https://www.inc.com/craig-bloem/84-percent-of-people-trust-online-reviews-as-much-.html). If they see a product with 4+ stars, they will be very compelled to pulled the trigger. Since Amazon is aware of this, it promotes the products with the best average reviews. At the volume and scale of Amazon, this helps as a great way to filter quality products from shitty ones.   Needless to say: A competing product that has a lot of reviews, tend to rank much higher than products with relatively low reviews. ### **7\. Get higher conversions using flash sales** ⏰ Who doesn’t love a deal? Amazon shoppers certainly do. To offer what Amazon calls a Lighting Deal, you must be a Professional Seller with at least 5 Seller Feedback Ratings per month and an overall rating of at least 3.5-stars. Additionally, products must meet these criteria: - Have a sales history and at least a 3-star rating on Amazon - Include as many variations as possible - Not a restricted product or offensive, embarrassing or inappropriate product - Your product needs to be Prime eligible in all states, including Puerto Rico - Items must be in New Condition ### **8\. Add useful FAQ and Q&A’s sections** Even the most thorough product description might miss an important question from a customer. Make sure you are not preventing a sale by having a section where you answer the most important questions. ### **Be consistent on all your channels** Your website should also be consistent with your Amazon store. If you promise a lifetime warranty on your website but fail to do so on Amazon, people might not shop there and that will lower your rankings. You should also aim to have all the variations, sizes and colors in all of your stores. This also includes Ebay, Facebook stores. ## **After the sale** If you are looking to build a long lasting brand and company, you need to make sure your customers are satisfied throughout the whole product experience. That means that the customer journey doesn’t end with the purchase, but rather it is just getting started. Having a low return rate and low order defect rate will also help you boost your rankings. ## **Blackhat Amazon SEO: Don’t Use these Tactics to Increase your Products Reviews** As you might know, some sellers tend to resort to fishy techniques to increase their product’s reviews. A few ways they do this is by manipulating the URLs appending some keywords to the end such as “dog+food” so that Amazon thinks the buyers typed those keywords when they were surfing for products. Then they employ people to write fake reviews. ## **How to get legit Amazon reviews** A better way to get real Amazon reviews is to include a small thank you card inside your product and encourage people to give their honest feedback. A great way to encourage them is to give them an incentive such as: - we will email you a discount code for your next purchase - extending their product warranty by 1 extra year - doing a giveaway of another product among the reviewers ## **My Favorite tools for Amazon sellers** 1. [Unicorn Smasher](https://www.unicornsmasher.com/) and [MerchantWords](https://www.merchantwords.com/january70off) will show you an estimate of product serach volume and other keyword details 2. [KeywordsEverywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/): shows you how many people are 3. [AMZtracker](https://www.amztracker.com/#5c132cc2d96aa): will help you optimize everything possible in your Amazon listing, it can also help you track competitors and estimate their sales. Other tools that might come in handy are covered in my [SEO tools roundup](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools). ## **How does Amazon SEO differ from Google SEO?** On Amazon each search is ranked relative to the user’s previous purchasing habits. Unlike Google, Amazon doesn’t directly take into account social media, domain authority, or backlinks (debatable) to determine the rank of a product. However, having a strong brand and a lot of social buzz will certainly drive a lot of brand queries and will eventually lead to stronger rankings. You can shoot up to the first spot on an Amazon search very quickly if you have a solid product with great sales and reviews. With Google, it still takes months of building domain authority until you get first page rankings. Since Amazon owns the entire sales funnel, it can track each customer’s moves with more accuracy; understanding where they clicked, how long they stayed on each site and which products they viewed before deciding on one. You must aim to have a long product page view time and a low bounce rate (when someone views your product but ends up leaving or purchasing something else). ## **Conclusion** Amazon is arguably the best place to sell your items. Optimizing your store and product means having thorough product titles and descriptions, high quality images, and great keyword selection. But it also requires having a great quality product, answering all your customer concerns and providing amazing value post-purchase. If you liked this Amazon SEO guide, please send it to a friend! Lastly, comment 3-5 sentences relevant to Amazon optimization, how you do it, and what you are selling, and get entered into a raffle to win a post on [Soinfluential](https://soinfluential.com/) or [Remarkable](https://remarkablemag.com/). To learn more about SEO, read: - My step-by-step [SEO tutorial to crush Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - How to do [keyword research like a pro](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) - [What is Google Rankbrain?](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) - How to [optimize Youtube videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) ## How Amazon SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When a shopper asks ChatGPT ‘best under $100,’ the engine usually cites a mix of Amazon-internal data (which it can scrape) and external review sites and best-of roundups. Sellers who build external content presence — a brand site, comparison content, video reviews — get pulled into AI answers more often than pure-Amazon sellers. The sneaky high-leverage move in 2026: get your product listed in 3-5 high-authority comparison roundups in your category. AI engines disproportionately cite roundup posts when summarizing ‘best X’ queries, and being included in those roundups is worth more in AI-engine citations than another 100 Amazon reviews. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for Amazon SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the top 3 backlink strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-3-backlink-building-strategies/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). ## FAQ — Amazon SEO in the AI search era ### Do AI engines impact Amazon sales in 2026? Yes for considered-purchase categories. Shoppers research in ChatGPT/Perplexity before clicking through to Amazon. Sellers cited in AI answers see more discovery traffic; ones not cited lose share. ### Should Amazon sellers invest in external SEO too? Increasingly yes — even minimal external presence (a brand site with a few category pages) feeds AI-engine discovery in ways pure-Amazon listings can’t. ### Can ChatGPT or Perplexity link directly to Amazon listings? Yes, when relevant they include direct Amazon URLs in citations. Some users click through; others read the summary and search Amazon themselves. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Improve Your Ranking With An SEO Checklist Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/boost-seo-ranking-with-seo-checklist/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The classic SEO checklist below — title tag, meta description, H1, internal links, schema, image alt, page speed, mobile-friendly — is still 100% valid in 2026. What changes is the checklist now needs three additional items to cover AI-search visibility: a TL;DR block, an FAQ section, and verifiable primary-source citations. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The classic SEO checklist below — title tag, meta description, H1, internal links, schema, image alt, page speed, mobile-friendly — is still 100% valid in 2026. What changes is the checklist now needs three additional items to cover AI-search visibility: a TL;DR block, an FAQ section, and verifiable primary-source citations. The GEO section walks through each addition. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* *This post contains affiliate links for which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* There are many factors to consider when running a website, one of which is to gain recognition.  In the vast world of the competitive web, it can be a struggle to establish your site’s reputation. With this, having a good ranking is essential. As a website owner, you should see that your site is included in the top 10 results of a search to guarantee a good ranking.  It serves as an appropriate measure of how well your site is doing. Google can help you out to see if you have a good order. However, it cannot be easy to secure a good SEO ranking if you do not know where to begin. Newcomers might feel overwhelmed with the whole process and find SEO [complex](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/02/18/what-to-expect-from-seo-technology-in-the-2020s/?sh=62f0ccbeba19).  Fortunately for you, I have a tool from SEOBUDDY which can help you.  Let me walk you through the [SEO Checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist), which can help you find ways to increase your SEO ranking. Youtube Link – [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-mdRiWO\_0g](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-mdRiWO_0g) ## Why is there a Need to Boost My SEO Ranking? Search Engine Optimization operates through the configuration of a checklist that search algorithms are programmed to read.  By qualifying each component of the checklist, your website will most likely be featured among the top list of searches. This configuration is activated from the individual input of web users. It is a must to boost your SEO ranking to widen the reach of [your audience](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/03/03/how-to-market-seo-services-to-clients/?sh=5a082e154203).  Moreover, it offers you a more effective platform to render your service by being part of the top searches. People will most likely see your website among others listed on the internet. ## What is an SEO Checklist? The SEO Checklist is a detailed guide to all the necessary SEO actions you need to perform to make the most out of your website. This checklist is also a tool to receive more organic traffic.  By utilizing this tool, you can expect a constant stream of customers visiting your website. The SEO Checklist aims to put your website on the first page of Google to increase your audience.  By using this checklist, you can get higher SEO rankings in a short amount of time. This tool makes SEO simple and helps decrease complications that you might encounter along the way. ## Benefits of Having an SEO Checklist  It is crucial to have a constant presence on the web to maintain or improve your market position. If you’re newer to SEO or just struggling, the SEO Checklist helps in many ways.  Here, we listed the benefits of having an [SEO Checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist) that might help you out. ### You’ll see the bigger picture of what needs to be done to optimize and rank a site. The [SEO Checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist) enables users to follow a format that is easily understandable and brief.  The layout is not complicated, simplifying and prioritizing the things that site owners should consider. Users can navigate through the contents in the checklist at their convenience. ### You’ll be able to track what you have and haven’t done, so you don’t miss important stuff. With the layout of the [SEO Checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist), it will be easier to track your site’s progress. Through the checklist system, you can also decrease the chances of forgetting or missing essential tasks. ### You’ll be able to follow along with super detailed step-by-step documents. Coordinating with your team will also be more comfortable as you transition into doing more complex tasks requiring close monitoring.  With the use of the [SEO Checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist), you can immediately check which jobs are still pending. Likewise, it can tell if you can manage your time efficiently if you can meet your goals within your set time-frame. ### You will understand the things you have to do and how to do them. Aside from providing a list that you can follow, this tool offers suggestions regarding performing the tasks. It is undeniable that [SEO Checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist) can save you a tremendous amount of time through its built-in function for tips.  It is not required to follow each step exactly stated. Users can formulate their solutions using the checklist suggestions as a guide. ## Parts of the SEO Checklist You might be wondering what the SEO Checklist looks like! Well, the SEO Checklist is like any other checklist, but better!  It consists of eight columns (vertically) and nine sections (horizontally) with their respective components to increase your SEO ranking. The columns of the SEO Checklist includes: 1. Title 2. Status 3. Difficulty 4. Impact 5. Cost 6. Tools 7. SOP 8. Extras ### ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ah-GL2-J3QcSSSJUUUc6b7r7MKgUkWQudHoAQwe82HbybTjjjSM6g9dKXWPeV4pGkRLcwJtF5hvHNwTr5ylzqMEpkOIBfrAsyc7MxG-Yqjiz5Jkx3KLexgUi0Al62NghhNaaFPKW) Photo Source: [https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist) ### Title The title contains a list of the things that the users must accomplish to increase their SEO ranking. The contents are based on previous trends that increase SEO ranking. This list enables easy access to strategies that are proven effective. The accompanying rationale for each action is also part of the plan to impart better insight to users. ### Status The status contains a menu tab to allow modification depending on the current level of the task. Users can select one out of the four options available, which are not performed, done, in progress, and abandoned. It allows easy monitoring by conveniently presenting which tasks still need more attention. ### Difficulty This column enables users to label tasks based on their degree of difficulty. Since various tasks differ in the amount of time required to accomplish them, this column is a great way to prioritize tasks accordingly. ### Impact Another critical column is impact, which ranks tasks depending on their degree of impact on the site’s overall function. It is another column that helps users identify which tasks should go first. Most users will prefer to focus on tasks with more significant impact and accomplish them as soon as possible. ### Cost This column lists the costs of services that you can use. Most services are free, which is excellent for maximizing the use of the checklist. However, if you want to expand your services, you can opt to choose additional tools that are not available to an average user for additional costs if it fits your budget. ### Tools This column lists the tools that you will need to accomplish tasks. These tools are beneficial in giving special services that are beyond your abilities. You can read through the tools and select the one which you think fits best. ### SOP SOP or Standard Operation Procedure comes with the checklist. The SOP indicates what you need to do and is a handy guide for beginners. It encourages users to be proactive and personally take charge of increasing their SEO rankings. ### Extras The extras column contains various manual links, posts, and tutorials that users can find beneficial. The last column is a mixture of exciting guides that can be relevant to using the checklist. Aside from the eight columns, the SEO Checklist also contains various sections. The sections of the SEO Checklist are as follows: 1. Foundation 2. User Experience 3. Content 4. Performance 5. On-Page SEO 6. Off-Page SEO 7. Technical SEO 8. Local SEO 9. Setup your first WordPress site ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/HtsAFau9Oq2MaPbVsJCP12R2uNUZqSPiGyjdzhDb7aq1zsgfWSEZL3wYrD7vP7EMkOM7cAMsuRRPTjLsWOPAQuU_58_mAM9rotmCmXadTXkoRjuQAzcfPBL3EDPaWO3H-2X4Jggs) Photo Source: [https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist) ### Foundation The foundation serves as the backbone of all the things you will accomplish. Most of the things you will need to boost your rankings are already in place, including tracking for backlinks. ### User Experience This section gives you an insight into the experience of your site’s visitors. It will help you improve on your services by focusing on client’s concerns. ### Content The key to optimizing your content is putting the right keywords. SEO works by reading keywords, and it can significantly impact your SEO rating. Make the most out of your SEO checklist by using the tools that can help you. ### Performance This section indicates factors that can make your site run at its best quality. It is essential to have a smooth running site by decreasing loading times to get a good SEO rating. ### On-Page SEO This section contains the components that can be seen by users first hand. It focuses on more straightforward navigation and more understandable terms for your users. ### Off-Page SEO This section offers alternative ways to promote your site. You can consider many strategies, such as reaching out to social media and guest posting. It primarily aims to generate more people to be aware of your site and its services. ### Technical SEO [Technical SEO](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2019/07/11/five-technical-seo-considerations-you-cant-afford-to-get-wrong/?sh=7e31f46d68c0) helps you set up your website’s technical aspects to avoid technical risks in the future. Suggestions such as checking links and redirections are part of this section. ### Local SEO Local SEO accounts for promotions made locally. It is a great way to gain promotions in a neighborhood where people can view your service as the top-tier provider in your local community. ### Setup your first WordPress site This section relieves you from the burden of starting a WordPress site. With just a few clicks, you can have your WordPress at the ready in no time! ## Inclusions of the SEO Checklist When you get the [SEO Checklist](https://seobuddy.com/seo-checklist), you can get the various [inclusions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fw9qMfsT0So) that come with it. The SEO Checklist includes: 1. The 102-Point SEO Checklist (Google Sheet + Web App) 2. 42 Step-by-Step Process Docs (detailed standard operating procedures) 3. The 62 Page eBook (PDF) 4. A 52-WEEK Content Planning Calendar Method (PDF) 5. The 50-Point Content Distribution Checklist (Google Sheet) If you know someone struggling with SEO, it would be a great idea to send them this checklist. You can also help me out by sharing this checklist on Facebook and Twitter. I hope you found this post valuable. Liked this post? Read more on SEO topics that are related to this topic. Make sure to check out these other great content: 1. [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/)   2. [The Best SEO Guide For 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) 3. [9 Must-Have Off-Page SEO Factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) Let me know in the comments if you have learned something new today. Feel free to share any other valuable information that is not mentioned in this SEO post for the benefit of all. ## How SEO checklists works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) Treat the AI-search additions as a second checklist layered on top of the classic one. You don’t subtract anything — every classic SEO move still pulls weight. You just add: (1) a 2-4 sentence TL;DR at the top, (2) a numbered step-by-step block somewhere in the body, (3) an FAQ section using literal user-question phrasing, (4) primary-source citation links to the AI providers’ own documentation. When auditing an existing post against the 2026 checklist, the fastest tell for AI-search readiness is the page’s first 200 words. If a reader (or an LLM) can quote a clean answer to the head query from the first 200 words, the post is GEO-ready. If the first 200 words are setup, throat-clearing, or scene-setting, the page is leaving citations on the table. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for SEO checklists 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — SEO checklists in the AI search era ### What’s the single most important item to add to my 2024 SEO checklist for 2026? A TL;DR block at the top of every pillar post. It’s the lowest-effort, highest-leverage GEO move. Adds 60 seconds of writing time per post and consistently moves AI-engine citation rates. ### Should I add FAQ schema to every post or just pillar posts? Pillar posts and any post that already has Q&A-style content. Don’t add FAQPage schema to pages without actual FAQ content — that’s a quality signal worth preserving. ### Is page speed still the biggest SEO ranking factor in 2026? It’s still a ranking factor, but its weight relative to content quality has decreased. Page speed matters more for user satisfaction (and indirectly for ranking) than as a direct ranking signal in 2026. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## SEO Content Tool: In-depth Review Of Clearscope 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/clearscope-review/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Clearscope is a content-optimization tool that scores drafts against high-ranking pages for a target keyword and recommends terms to add. In 2026 it’s still useful for the classic on-page side, and emerging integration with AI-search citation patterns is starting to show up. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Clearscope is a content-optimization tool that scores drafts against high-ranking pages for a target keyword and recommends terms to add. In 2026 it’s still useful for the classic on-page side, and emerging integration with AI-search citation patterns is starting to show up. The review below covers the platform. This update adds an FAQ on how Clearscope fits into a GEO workflow, without modifying pricing or feature comparisons. *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* #### Bottom line You’ve probably heard that developing better content will improve your search engine rankings, but a solid SEO strategy is almost always built around keywords; in fact, keywords are the core of most digital marketing strategies in use today. Using the right keyword research content optimization tool like Clearscope will allow you to supply your brand with relevant detail, and the right audience. Getting people to read my blogs was the first issue I faced as a newbie in digital marketing. In the beginning, I struggled to provide high-quality content that persuades readers to take action. What’s the ideal word count for my piece of content? Is my material required to be up-to-date and relevant for it to be effective? As a result, I often overlook the importance of other factors, such as keywords, when considering [SEO traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Due to this, many content marketing firms now use systems like Clearscope, which provides content scores and offers content upgrades. Now the question is, can Clearscope assist in your search engine rankings? Let’s find out!  ## What is Clearscope? Clearscope is the ideal platform for [optimizing SEO content](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/) and driving traffic from search engines like Google and Bing. It made writing for SEO easier with its simplified tools, allowing you to produce high-quality content that leads. To explain further, Clearscope looks for keywords that are closely connected to your target keyword in your content and then assign you a letter grade denoting how effectively your content is optimized for SEO. Hence, each customer’s success is ensured by this platform’s extensive live demos and on-boardings, as well as hands-on assistance from their team of experts. ## How does Clearscope work? ![](/images/posts/inline/357ba655-review-clearscope.png) Clearscope is a one-of-a-kind online content optimization tool that is incredibly easy to use. Once registered, just enter the target keyword and run a report to obtain your list of keywords and those used by your competitors. Additionally, the program provides a content score to your content based on its number of words and readability. If that isn’t enough, it will inform you of your position concerning its competitors. To explain further, you can follow these steps below: 1. Visit Clearscope’s platform for SEO content optimization. 2. In the center of the screen, click on the “’View Pricing’ icon. 3. There are now three alternatives available to you. – Become a member of the Essentials Plan. The Professional Package, or the Enterprise Package (you can also choose to request a demo by using the black button at the top right-hand side of the page) 4. When selecting the Essentials Package, you’ll be prompted to provide your personal and financial data, including a credit card number. 5. All that remains to be done is validate your email address, and you’ll be good to go! ## What Makes Clearscope Unique? Hundreds of firms worldwide, including Adobe, Optimizely, Kettle & Fire, Backlinko, and Bench, use Clearscope. Why? Because it is far more than [a basic keyword optimization tool.](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) ### Clearscope’s Market  In order to develop competitive content and expedite the writing process, Clearscope is best suited for major agencies and companies. The cost may be prohibitive for smaller businesses or those who don’t create much content. ## Clearscope’s Main Features Clearscope provides a wide range of products, and some of the more popular ones include: ### Accessibility Clearscope’s user-friendliness sets it apart. Although the team offers free onboarding and excellent assistance, most users never use these services since they are unnecessary. The tabs make it simple to navigate all the content, and the functions are well labeled. Additionally, you won’t have to wait for the report to load after running it. ### Topic and Keyword Research Overall keyword research is Clearscope’s most notable feature. This feature is ideal for content marketers since it simplifies [generating subject concepts and intuitive keyword suggestions.](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-keyword-clustering/)  Those who spend a lot of time coming up with content ideas would greatly benefit from this feature. Because it gets its data from Google in real-time, you never have to worry about being out of the loop. This great tool is unmatched in content relevancy, content planning, and developing outlines. Hence, it also has the following functions: - Basic Search Engine Optimization (SEO)  - Meta Description Ideas - Keyword Research - Link Building ### Content Optimization This function will assist you in optimizing your article or blog post. Hence, Clearscope will provide you with a full assessment of how your material stacks up against the competition. On top of that, it will also provide you with advice on [how to improve your material better.](https://alejandrorioja.com/viral-content-creation-tips-to-generate-2500-visitors-per-day/) ### Integration Clearscope appears to be limited to Google Docs integration alone. Hence, you can copy and paste your Clearscope material into other programs, such as Grammarly or your content management system. ### Clearscope Support  The Clearscope team provides help through email and only during regular working hours. Hands-on customer service, such as phone calls, is lacking. ## Clearscope Advantages and Cons Listed below are just a handful of the many advantages that Clearscope offers content teams. Nonetheless, If you’re looking for a content optimization and [SEO research tool](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/), bear in mind that there are certain drawbacks to consider. ### Advantage of using Clearscope #### User Friendly Clearscope is one of the most user-friendly tools I’ve encountered. Its user interface is laid up in a logical, intuitive manner so that you can be up and running in no time. #### Time Saver You’ll save a lot of time if you’re continuously looking for fresh topics to write about using Clearscope’s topic creation function. #### Ease of Use Many individuals are still unable to grasp the concept of search engine optimization (SEO). Still, Clearscope takes care of all the technical details so you can concentrate on your creative work. #### Makes SEO writing a lot simpler Everyone knows SEO is important, but incorporating it into writing is tricky. SEO specialists often get caught up in the short stack of writing for readers.  Hence, Clearscope strikes the perfect blend between author guidance and content scoring. ### Cons of using Clearscope #### Pricey compared to other SEO tools Clearscope’s initial price of £170 for the most basic version makes it more expensive than other comparable products. #### App Integrations There aren’t any WordPress integrations; it means you’ll have to copy and paste your text into other processes.  #### Content briefings and collaborative tools are excluded Clearscope will provide you with the information you need to improve your content, but it won’t assist you with the actual creation of it. The best you can do is share a link to your Clearscope report with your coworkers. #### No Linking Feature Clearscope reports and highlights keywords, content length, and subject relevance. But it has no internal linking option to assist you when you have backlinks to seek.  ## Clearscope Plans and Pricing In terms of pricing, Clearscope has three main options: ### Essentials: £170 per month  1. A total of twenty reporting credits 2. Integrations with Google Docs and WordPress for three users 3. Five different languages are supported ### Professional Package: £350 1. A total of more than 50 report credits 2. There are ten places available for users 3. a tool for finding relevant keywords ### Package Deals for Large Organizations (Available Upon Request) You can contact [Clearscope](https://www.clearscope.io/) for the pricing and further information about this custom-tailored product. ## Final Verdict: Is Clearscope Worth it? Clearscope may be a good purchase if you’re searching for simplified solutions. With this application, you will be able to swiftly come up with some fantastic ideas that will delight your customers!  As far as SEO is concerned, Clearscope is a winner since it removes the burden of ensuring that all of your content is optimized.  Hence, it’s a great option for content marketers that require more than basic products on the market.  Read more tips and guides about SEO tools: - [The Best SEO Guide for 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [Enterprise SEO Guide: Strategies, Tools, and More.](https://alejandrorioja.com/enterprise-seo-guide-strategies-tools-more/) - [How to use SEO as a strategy to create site traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/) Tell me in the comments below if you use Clearscope or another SEO content platform! ## Clearscope in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how Clearscope fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Does Clearscope help with AI search content optimization in 2026? Indirectly. Clearscope optimizes for term coverage against top-ranking pages, which correlates with the depth signal AI engines reward. It’s not an AI-search-specific tool but the workflow is GEO-compatible. ### Is Clearscope worth the cost in 2026? For content teams producing 4+ posts per month at meaningful word counts, yes — the on-page optimization lift is real. For lower volume, free alternatives and manual term research may be more economical. ### Should I use Clearscope alongside Surfer SEO? Functionally redundant — both score drafts against top-ranking pages. Pick one based on workflow fit and budget. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How to Create Search Engine Friendly Tags Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/creating-search-engine-friendly-tags/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The on-page tags that matter for SEO — title, meta description, H1, image alt, internal links — still matter in 2026. The structural metadata that matters for AI search is a slightly different set: schema markup, OpenGraph, Article meta, canonical URLs, language tags. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The on-page tags that matter for SEO — title, meta description, H1, image alt, internal links — still matter in 2026. The structural metadata that matters for AI search is a slightly different set: schema markup, OpenGraph, Article meta, canonical URLs, language tags. The post below covers the classic tag layer; the GEO section covers the structured-data layer underneath. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line One of the essential Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ranking elements is the title tag. It helps you bring more organic traffic to your website and enhance your results if you use appropriately created search engine-friendly headlines. However, you must ensure that your titles are appropriately optimized to achieve excellent SEO results. Hence, they must target the appropriate keywords while enticing the reader to click on your page. It’s not hard to write them if you adopt a set of best practices, and the benefits of the results may be considerable! In SEO, titles are one of the most significant factors. However, having your keywords in the title is a no-brainer, and writing SEO-friendly title tags isn’t always simple.  If there’s one thing I’ve learned from many years of SEO work, it’s that users tend to overlook titles.  I have come across statements that there isn’t any visible success despite working with an SEO firm. In this case, it appears that the said “firm” hasn’t even optimized it as simple as the title tag. Hence, to help you save the trouble, I’ve put up this guide of information you need to know and my recommended practices to ensure that every one of your site’s pages has well-optimized titles.  ## What is Search Engine Optimization (SEO)? To fully comprehend SEO-friendly title tags, let us first define SEO. When you utilize a search engine, SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, it describes the logic that affects how websites are ranked (such as Google). In a nutshell, SEO is a digital marketing technique for increasing the amount and quality of visitors to your website. ## What is SEO Friendly Title Tags? You may believe that the [title tag](https://www.weareinfront.com/learn-article/title-tag/) is the language you type into WordPress or whatever platform you’re using to reflect the title of your page or post. On the other hand, a title tag is an HTML element that describes a blog article or page’s title.  Additionally, a search-engine-friendly title tag describes the content of a webpage and is optimized for search engines. As a result, when generating title tags, your objective should be to make them as relevant and precise as possible and offer a suitable summary of the content of a page. ## H1 Tag vs. Title Tag The Title Tag is abbreviated as “title” in HTML, whereas the H1 Tag is abbreviated as “h1.” Although page titles and H1 tags both serve the same purpose of providing additional information about the content of a website page, there is a significant distinction between the two. Here’s a more specific significant distinction between the two: ### H1 Tag An H1 tag is the huge text heading that shows on a webpage. When people come to your website, this is the first thing they will notice. The H1 element displays just on the webpage; it does not appear in search engine result pages. ### Title Tags The title tags are the first few words shown on search engine result pages. It’s what gets people to click from a search engine to a website where they can read the content. The default title for bookmarked pages is the title tag. Please keep in mind that Title Tags are not visible on the real website page. ## Importance of Search Engine The first thing that needs to be done on your to-do list should be title tag optimization for on-page SEO. For two key reasons, title tags are crucial for SEO: 1. The title tag appears in search results, so users will see it even before visiting your website. 2. It offers search engines a good idea of what the page is about. As a result, this combination makes title tag optimization a critical step in the whole SEO process. It will help your page or post gain [more interactions](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2019/05/07/digital-marketers-get-your-startups-on-the-fast-track/?sh=69d4f40e6ee3) than before optimizing your title tags. ## Tips on Writing a Search Engine Friendly Title Tags Before we get into crafting your SEO-friendly title tags, let’s look at some of the best practices you should consider to get better results. 1\. Title Length Using an optimum title length is one of the most vital elements of SEO-friendly titles. The first 50 to 60 characters of a title tag are frequently displayed by Google. Although there are no strict rules, keeping your titles brief and appealing is a good idea. Therefore, keeping your titles to 60 characters or less is a good idea. If your titles are under 60 characters, you should anticipate roughly 90% of them to appear correctly in Google search results. Additionally, because characters might vary in width, there is no specific character limit. But what will happen if you have a title tag that is too long? Google will shorten them and append at the end. This is referred to as [truncation](https://ncu.libguides.com/researchprocess/truncation). 2\. Unique Title Tags Uniqueness is crucial when optimizing your articles, headlines, and [content](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) to receive more traffic from search engines like Google. Yes, there will be a lot of duplicate titles for identical content in Google search results. However, if you want to improve your rankings, you must produce original and highly entertaining titles. It would help if you strived to write title tags that appeal to search engine algorithms and human users. Moreover, ensure your page names are appropriate, as Google crawlers may become confused if you utilize irrelevant page titles. 3\. Avoid Using Stop Words Stop words are not processed by search engines like Google. These words are the most frequent terms that most search engines avoid. This is frequently done to reduce room and quicken the crawling or scanning of massive amounts of data. Here’s a summary of some of the many sorts of stop words to avoid in title tags if you’re curious. - A - And - But - So - On - Or - The - Was - With If you’re wondering how will it look like in your next title, here’s an example for you: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/bLxhMvEINEIP7DHAaSFwpaWZou3-do-Bqv9HVImL8AZ57BuGYfUchlU3zqiCnyC1JeDaUAg1kBqbI1ks4sNaZ-FMjxljVQZas2jX8Ez4SqlroJXMAgjXudCZ5UuW4vKrIQ7jM-zV) Image source: [Online media master](https://onlinemediamasters.com/wp-content/webpc-passthru.php?src=https://onlinemediamasters.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Stop-Words.jpg&nocache=1) 4\. A Title That is an Accurate Description of Your Content Consider the title to be a very brief overview of the page. A good title is extremely related to the page’s content. Don’t deceive search engines by using a title that doesn’t match the content. Because of what is known as pogo-sticking, this is a terrible SEO strategy that may kill your rankings. As a result, Google will lower your rankings, causing your engagements to deteriorate. [Pogo sticking](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-pogo-sticking/) is the phrase for when a person searches for something on Google, clicks on one of the top results, views a website but doesn’t find it amusing, then returns to the search results and clicks on the second item, and so on. 5\. Keywords Should be in Titles or The Beginning The [keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) that are at the beginning are valued more highly by Google. Users will click more on the results that contain the terms they just looked for, which will increase the number of clicks. However, you won’t always include the target keyword with the highest search traffic right away. Since getting within a title while sounding decent and natural is difficult. Google is capable of deducing the topic of an article, but you must provide it with some helpful tips. It will figure out easier and reward you if you offer useful tips. #### Create Engaging Headlines You need to write headlines that attract users’ attention and lead to spontaneous hits from search engines like Google. The three most important criteria to consider while creating click-worthy names are as follows: 1. Benefit 2. Curiosity 3. Emotion Let’s go over each one and see some examples. 1\. Benefit You’ll get incredible results if you start displaying advantages in your title tags. Here’s what it looks like in a title: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5oUUzX6JOhVzDzAdLf05uuZoHPX88NhJ8Rgu1sd45VKkEvP-heWdGYXyI0g8YCh_sByt2qWyB7gOuMBNIMmbf-OlOImfwe9mL6InSdMuzY2-vHj3dXpwKHGTteuaqARfk7I59y1_) 2\. Curiosity  To maximize organic clicks, you need to build interest in your titles. Here’s an example for you: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MPyhEOScNBXh3Sw3lCXya-AMM1zQGq58zMfj92Aj1SIhbsoEZDn1tvD-3AZ9PpGOjTpDlheiHCucKfEQtm3lxqcfFD2PX27TrFPbxFLEpuMMUZJcy6WJSEb_cuOusmU6ozJSM6CC) 3\. Emotion Users love to visit sites online wherein they can relate to emotionally. Through this, users will visit your page and what you have in store for them.  To help you, here’s what it looks like: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/A4KHOLIdyZ00UPrrNJCuTXmvrVFep3Qw9MqsfDuVMJf8AZWe7LgKtlnIAzFbF4F9fl_ev7rbnZmJMNFFv8fjOLePgzqx60Dvaum3JCoobWum5k3uLrsYKfJcKqON3JxFWlfQH282) ## Properly Optimized Title Tags Can Save Your Engagements Title tags are significant since they educate readers about the content available when they click on a link. They’re crucial to search engines for the same reason, except that they also help assess the relevance of a web page as a consequence of a search query. They aren’t difficult to master; they need a little time and effort. These will never be perfect. As a result, you should strive to test and enhance your title tags regularly. You may also run split tests to discover which title works best if you have enough traffic. If you liked reading this blog, here are other scripts you might enjoy: - [9 Must-Have Off-Page SEO Factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) - [How to Improve Your Ranking With An SEO Checklist](https://alejandrorioja.com/boost-seo-ranking-with-seo-checklist/) - [How to Increase your Traffic to 250k/mo (Beginner to Advanced)](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) ## How SEO-friendly tags and metadata works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines parse three layers of metadata when evaluating a page: HTML tags (title, meta description), social tags (OpenGraph, Twitter cards), and structured data (JSON-LD schema). Each layer feeds a different part of the engine’s understanding. The classic on-page tags drive how Google indexes the page; the structured-data layer drives how AI engines extract answers from it. Practical 2026 move: every pillar post should have a complete OpenGraph tag set (title, description, image, type), Article schema with author + dates + main entity, and either FAQPage or HowTo schema where applicable. That metadata trifecta is what separates AI-engine-citable pages from invisible-to-AI pages structurally. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for SEO-friendly tags and metadata 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). ## FAQ — SEO-friendly tags and metadata in the AI search era ### Are HTML title tags still the most important SEO element in 2026? For classic Google ranking, yes — still one of the highest-weighted on-page signals. For AI-engine citations, schema markup and TL;DR content matter at least as much. ### Do meta descriptions matter for AI search? Indirectly — AI engines read them to understand page topic, but rarely cite them verbatim. The TL;DR block at the top of the page body matters more for actual citation extraction. ### Should I update OpenGraph tags on old posts in 2026? If they’re missing, yes — adds AI-engine readability. If present and accurate, leave them alone. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Enterprise SEO Guide: Strategies, Tools, & More Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/enterprise-seo-guide-strategies-tools-more/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Enterprise SEO — managing SEO across thousands or millions of pages, often at organizations with complex stakeholder structures — is uniquely positioned for the AI-search era. Enterprises with strong domain authority get cited in AI engines disproportionately, and the structural moves that earn AI citations are easier to roll out at scale than they are for small sites. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Enterprise SEO — managing SEO across thousands or millions of pages, often at organizations with complex stakeholder structures — is uniquely positioned for the AI-search era. Enterprises with strong domain authority get cited in AI engines disproportionately, and the structural moves that earn AI citations are easier to roll out at scale than they are for small sites. The post below covers the mechanics; the GEO section covers the enterprise-specific angle. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Enterprise SEO is the process of focusing on SEO methods that can boost larger enterprises’ organic presence and revenue usually defined by the number of pages on the site. These techniques must be scalable and strategic for an enterprise organization to sustain its search engine rankings. This article will help you understand the enterprise SEO strategies and how to implement them for a greater impact and business growth. If you follow me regularly, I have previously written guides on SEO, their importance, and their course of action.  To recall, [SEO (search engine optimization)](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) is the process of improving the visibility of your company’s website content on search engines. The better your content ranking, the more visible it is, resulting in more leads and conversions over time. Without SEO, it can be tough for the new audience to discover your site, which means you’ll most likely keep the clients you now have rather than gain new ones.  Enterprise SEO is the most powerful SEO strategy for growing your business. It’s a way of marketing that has been proven to work in the past. Not to mention, it’s also something that will work in the future too!  You already know how crucial search results are for your business, but you may not have considered how important it is for your digital marketing efforts as well.  Let’s look into what exactly is enterprise SEO and how you can effectively implement it. ## Types of SEO Since SEO helps you optimize your site for potential customers, working on either of the types of SEO below can help you start: ### 1\. On-Page SEO Any optimization that you control and incorporate on your website is referred to as On-Page SEO. On-page optimizations try to increase your ranks in search results on search engines (example: Google) by making your website more usable and beneficial to users.  On-Page SEO will lead your website to higher search rankings and will enable your site to be more visible on the web for users.  What are Examples of On-Page SEO?  - Creating effective title keywords and other descriptions - Generating quality content - Cleaning your website’s code ### 2\. Off-Page SEO [Off-Page SEO,](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) from the term itself, “Off-Page” is any SEO that does not happen on your website.  Being visible on other resources can build users’ awareness of your service and products. Second, the users’ trust in your business will lead to more visitors and ultimately more sales.  This type of SEO focuses on [“link building”](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2020/10/08/how-to-make-link-building-work-on-a-tight-budget/?sh=750fbcf241d8) as other resources and websites link users back to your site. What are Examples of Off-Page SEO?  - Social Media Marketing - Reviews from Bloggers / Specialists - Online Publications and Articles ### 3\. Technical SEO Technical SEO refers to search engines’ actions to crawl your website and improve the user experience (UX).  This type of SEO is constantly evolving as requirements change as search engines and their algorithms become more complex.  Its efforts need to be efficient to ensure [crawlability](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2012/04/16/is-google-afraid-of-the-internet-losing-freedom-or-their-dropping-cpc-rates/?sh=2aa04abf6681) and UX issues. Poor crawlability can damage search engine rankings.  You want the data on your website to be clear, easy to read, and accessible to readers and their robots, so Technical SEO is to be put into focus to prevent poor search engine rankings. What are Examples of Technical SEO? - Decrease website loading time - Eliminate error 404 or broken pages - Eliminate duplicate content **I’ve helped large startups (Series A-F) scale their SEO in a predictable manner and can do the same for your startup. Ready to scale your organic growth? Contact me here.** .kb-form input.kadence-blocks-field.verify{opacity:0.0;position:absolute;top:0.0;left:0.0;width:0.0;height:0.0;z-index:-1;} Name Email\* Message\* Email Submit Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form .kadence-form-\_5f4a6a-e9 .kadence-blocks-form-field.kb-submit-field { display: none; } ## Importance of Entreprise SEO ### Being Visible and Ranking Higher As we all know, there are several reasons why SEO is important and on top of that is Visibility and Ranking. Whenever people browse services or products online, the users are more likely to look into the top suggested results.  With the help of SEO, it makes you rank up higher in the search results depending on the possible key term related that the user will search on.  SEO also helps you to be more visible to users online, potentially garnering clients or customers that would be interested in checking your site or business. ### Having Organic Web Traffic SEO allows you to have organic search engine traffic that enables your business to be more visible to users on the web without obliging you to pay for it.  Because SEO enhances organic search engine traffic, it increases the number of daily visits to your page. The more relevant or interested people visit your site, the more likely you are to sell, which can immediately translate to an increase in sales. ### Being Trusted Having better SEO is equivalent to appearing higher on known search engines like Google. Being more visible on most used search engines will give you an additional benefit of being trusted by potential customers.  Generally, users tend to accept first the first recommended searches that the search engine will give out, thus ranking higher for the terms a user is looking for will confirm your product or service as trustworthy in the user’s eyes. ### Developing Growth A well-optimized website explains what product or service is being offered, how to get it, and answers any questions that may arise.  Give the users a “user-friendly” experience from the point of navigating through your website. Search engines can pull the information they need to transmit to users by tailoring the site’s design to the user’s experience.  If a user has trouble navigating your site, search engines are likely to have trouble as well. ### Compared with Traditional or “Normal” SEO  Local SEO is beneficial to your business since it allows you to deliver the necessary information to your customers at any time.  It’s also the finest way to get enough traffic to your website by generating internet leads. On the other hand, Enterprise SEO can help your company verify its existence to Google’s algorithms.  In addition, the most effective SEO technique for presenting your brand to customers. The sort of business website affects its SEO.  [If you’re running a local business](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2020/01/13/trying-to-promote-your-local-business-three-easy-facebook-video-ad-ideas/?sh=51d129c2afbd), you’ll need to concentrate on your website’s local SEO. On the other hand, if you manage a large, well-established company, you’ll need to concentrate on corporate SEO. Now, talking about “traditional” or “normal SEO,” let’s go deeper into that. How is it different from Enterprise SEO?  ### Enterprise SEO Versus “Normal” SEO #### Location On the other hand, we don’t focus on geographical constraints when it comes to enterprise SEO. The reason for this is that we are attempting to boost the search presence of that business website that sells items and services locally through local SEO.  In enterprise SEO, we must concentrate on large businesses. These businesses deal with customers from all over the world.  As a result, when performing local SEO on a website, we must only evaluate local competitors.  On the other hand, to execute enterprise SEO for a website, we must consider foreign rivals. Enterprise SEO necessitates more competitiveness than local SEO. #### Difference in SERPs The search engine result pages, or SERPs, are the pages that show the results of a search engine. The goal of SEO is to achieve a high ranking on search engine result pages.  Local SEO includes important elements such as address and phone number, but enterprise SEO does not. Furthermore, local SEO relies on Google listings to be included in Google directories.  It also depends on the content and consumer reviews in the area. #### Difference in Strategies For different sorts of SEO, multiple tactics are used. On a local level, local SEO methods involve good reputation management and link creation.  You must concentrate on local content. Local SEO methods are more dynamic than ever, with a focus on increasing local search rankings. Content expansion and an emphasis on internal and external linking are part of enterprise SEO strategy. To accomplish good corporate SEO, you must become a content-producing machine in terms of content. #### Difference in Tools If you want to be successful with SEO, [you’ll need to use various tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/). To rank higher in search engines, both local SEO and enterprise SEO require different technologies.  The greatest tools for local SEO on a website include Google keyword planner, Ahrefs, Moz local, local SEO checklist, and reviews tracker.  The Google webmaster tool, BrightEdge, and webpage test, on the other hand, are the ideal tools for corporate SEO of your website. These tools can help you track and monitor your SEO strategies. ## Purpose of Enterprise SEO  Because tactics that work for smaller firms won’t work for larger ones, enterprise SEO is critical. One of the most significant strategic distinctions between the two is that small firms rarely target highly competitive, short-tail keywords, but larger enterprises do. Larger businesses also require a dedicated corporate SEO staff to track and maintain organic rankings. In smaller businesses, the individual in charge of SEO is often also the content marketer and, in some cases, the social media manager. Enterprise SEO has several distinct characteristics that aren’t found in ordinary search engine optimization. These characteristics include: 1. Thousands of Pages Have Been Optimized 2. Data in Large Volumes 3. A Strict Keyword Selection Process is Used 4. Collaboration with Distributed Teams 5. Competitors with a Sharp Focus The fundamental goal remains expanding and boosting your search engine presence. The only real difference is how you go about accomplishing your goal. ## To Sum Up! As consumers continue to search for everything from product discovery and the comparison of social proof, information, evaluation, and even entertainment, companies that can take advantage of the multitude of business intelligence and lookup insights generated by all of this activity will be the most successful. Plan how you’ll respond and leverage real-time data to beat your competitors to fresh market opportunities ahead of time. What are your thoughts about Enterprise SEO? Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Here are other scripts you might enjoy: - [How to use SEO to Build Your Brand Authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/) - [How To Do Local SEO: Top Tips, Strategies, And Tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/) - [What Is Schema Markup And How To Use It To Boost Your SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup/) ## How enterprise SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) Enterprise sites have two built-in advantages for AI search: domain trust (LLMs cite established brands more often) and template-driven publishing (a structural change made once propagates across thousands of pages). Combining these means enterprises can move AI-search citation rates faster than smaller competitors, even with less original content per page. Where enterprises lose ground in 2026: slow stakeholder approval cycles for structural changes, legal review delaying schema updates, and brand-voice committees diluting the operator-tone content that AI engines reward. The fastest-moving enterprise SEO teams in 2026 have explicit GEO mandates and budget separate from classic SEO. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for enterprise SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). ## FAQ — enterprise SEO in the AI search era ### How does enterprise SEO governance need to change for AI search? Add GEO to the existing SEO committee (don’t create a separate one), shorten the structural-change approval cycle (TL;DR + FAQ additions are low-risk), and build internal training on what AI-engine citation reports mean. ### Do enterprise sites get cited in AI engines at higher rates than SMBs? Yes, on average — domain authority is a strong signal. But specialized SMBs in narrow niches sometimes outrank enterprises in AI engines for niche queries because of topical depth. ### Should enterprises invest in dedicated GEO tooling? If GEO is in the strategic plan, yes — Profound, Athena, and SEMrush’s AI-Overview tracking are starting points. For most enterprises in 2026 the budget is in the 5-15% of total SEO spend range. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Expert ETSY SEO Tips To Drive Traffic To Your Products Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/etsy-seo-tips-to-drive-traffic-to-your-products/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Etsy SEO — optimizing your shop and listings for Etsy’s internal search — is mostly about Etsy-specific signals (titles, tags, attributes, conversion rate) and that hasn’t changed. What did change in 2026 is that buyers now also discover Etsy products through AI engines: ChatGPT shopping prompts, Perplexity ‘best of’ queries, and Google AI Overviews for product-discovery searches. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Etsy SEO — optimizing your shop and listings for Etsy’s internal search — is mostly about Etsy-specific signals (titles, tags, attributes, conversion rate) and that hasn’t changed. What did change in 2026 is that buyers now also discover Etsy products through AI engines: ChatGPT shopping prompts, Perplexity ‘best of’ queries, and Google AI Overviews for product-discovery searches. The post below covers Etsy’s algorithm; the GEO section covers external AI discovery. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Conducting keyword research and applying the appropriate keywords to raise your Etsy search engine rankings is crucial. Utilize every character available in titles and tags to increase the efficacy of SEO.  Use descriptive narratives that go beyond the headline to pique the interest of potential buyers.  Lists should be properly categorized and attributed for increased appearance in relevant searches. Consider employing a seasoned SEO specialist to improve your Etsy store and achieve considerable company growth. [Etsy](https://alejandrorioja.com/exploring-the-top-10-amazon-competitors/), a widely used e-commerce platform, provides a profitable opportunity for selling digital items and boosting website visits and sales. In this article, you will learn more about Etsy SEO, examine the current best-selling products, and present a compilation of carefully researched items that can generate passive income.  You can use keywords that generate many monthly searches to enhance your Etsy shop’s visibility and attract potential customers. To thrive in e-commerce, your Etsy shop needs to distinguish itself. Effective SEO strategies can boost the visibility of your products and draw in potential customers. Today, I will present my top techniques and SEO plan for optimizing your Etsy listings, whether you’re a beginner or looking to boost your shop’s visibility. Utilizing search engine optimization (SEO) can be advantageous in increasing your Etsy shop’s online exposure. ## Understanding Etsy SEO Implementing effective SEO strategies on Etsy can [improve your store’s visibility and brand presence](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/). Potential clients are more likely to find your shop on the first page of search results and become familiar with your brand. SEO can benefit Etsy businesses by increasing their visibility and establishing their store as a trustworthy source for quality products, which sets them apart from competitors.  Businesses may increase their chances of getting found by potential buyers on search engines like Google and Bing by optimizing their listings with relevant keywords, resulting in increased organic traffic to their listings. Without SEO, businesses risk not being discovered by customers searching for related products and missing out on potential sales. To start mastering Etsy SEO, you need to conduct thorough keyword research. Begin by exploring related search terms on Etsy. Take note of the keywords and phrases that are popular in your niche. The keywords will provide a solid foundation for improving your listings, and [keyword research tools](https://www.forbes.com/uk/advisor/business/software/best-seo-tools/) can provide valuable insights into keyword trends and competition. ## 1\. Increasing Your Keyword Knowledge To find the right keywords for your product, you should wear your customer’s shoes first and try to see things from their perspective. You can find and test keywords using helpful tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, and Etsy Rank. [Conduct keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) by exploring related search terms on Etsy and using research tools like e-rank, Everbee, and Sales Samurai. Once you have compiled a list of potential keywords, you must incorporate them strategically. Prioritize using long-tail keyword phrases consisting of three or more keywords. These phrases are more precise and focused and can attract potential customers actively seeking your product or service. Examining prosperous shops within your specific market to optimize your Etsy listings is advisable.  Please take note of the keywords they employ and integrate similar ones into your list. It is crucial to achieve a harmonious blend between utilizing popular keywords and preserving the distinctiveness of your product. Rather than simply imitating others, discover a method to differentiate yourself by employing impactful keywords. ## 2\. Using All Available Words In Etsy’s constantly changing algorithm, utilizing all the characters in your title and tags is important. Although it might seem daunting to include multiple keywords, “keyword stuffing” is still an effective way to improve your SEO. Avoid unnecessary separators such as horizontal bars or dashes to utilize the 140 characters in your title fully.  Instead, use commas to separate your keywords and make the most of each character. Likewise, utilize all 13 tags, adding two or three words per tag to broaden your reach and increase the likelihood of appearing in relevant searches. ## 3\. Optimizing Descriptions When assessing products listed on Etsy, it is essential to consider the descriptions accompanying them. Although copying and pasting your title into the description may be tempting, this technique may need to be clarified for potential buyers. A [well-written product title and description](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnrampton/2016/08/16/9-tips-for-writing-e-commerce-product-descriptions-that-sell/) are critical to providing detailed information, such as specifics about the materials used or customization options. Remember that genuine individuals will peruse these descriptions, and a well-crafted one has the power to persuade them to make a purchase. ## 4\. Categorizing and Attributing Listings Properly categorize and attribute your entries to ensure your listings appear in relevant search results. By adhering to the guidelines and ensuring that your listing complies with them, you can significantly improve your visibility when customers filter their searches. You can effectively categorize and display your products by incorporating characteristics such as sleeve length, gender, colors, seasons, or even festivals. This strategic approach will expand your reach and expose your items to a larger audience, all thanks to Etsy’s algorithm. ## 5\. Maintaining Listings Relevant Maintaining relevance between your chosen keywords and the items you offer is essential. Avoid the common mistake of trying to rank for unrelated keywords. For instance, targeting keywords like “cat mama mug” might not yield the desired results if you sell a cat mom shirt. Focus on aligning your keywords with the specific item you offer to enhance your visibility among potential buyers searching for related products.  Trying to rank for irrelevant keywords or variations may attract the wrong audience, leading to low conversion rates and wasted effort. The aim is to attract potential clients interested in your products or services. Keeping your listings relevant will increase the chances of turning them into paying customers. ## 6\. Improving Your Etsy Shop SEO To outperform the competition and boost your shop’s visibility, you must optimize important parts of your Etsy shop for SEO. Here are some key sections to pay attention to: 1. Shop Title: Craft a title with relevant keywords with high search volume and low competition. 2. Announcement Section: Use this space to include keywords and highlight special offers or entrances to your email list. 3. Product Categories: Incorporate keywords with high search volume into your product categories to attract more traffic. 4. Update Section: Take advantage of this section to showcase new products, include relevant keywords, and drive engagement. 5. About Me Title and Description: Optimize these sections with keywords related to your best-selling product, helping you rank higher in search results. 6. Product Titles: Craft compelling titles for your products that include relevant keywords. Focus on creating descriptive, engaging, and optimized titles for search. Consider including specific details, such as the product type, unique features, and benefits it offers to potential buyers. 7. Product Descriptions: Write detailed and informative descriptions for your products, utilizing relevant keywords naturally. Highlight the key features, uses, and benefits of your digital products. Be sure to address any frequently asked questions and provide clear instructions for downloading and using the product. 8. Tags: Utilize all available tags for each product listing. Include a mix of broad and specific tags that accurately describe your product. Research popular tags related to your niche and incorporate them strategically to improve discoverability. 9. Product Images: High-quality visuals are essential for attracting customers. Ensure your product images are clear, visually appealing, and accurately represent your digital products. Optimize image filenames and alt text with relevant keywords to enhance SEO value. 10. Reviews and Ratings: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and ratings for your products. Higher ratings and positive reviews can improve your shop’s credibility and visibility in search results. ## 7\. Enhancing Your Shop’s Backlink Profile While SEO optimization of your Etsy shop is vital, marketing your shop and products to reach a larger audience is also important. Here are some effective promotional strategies: ### Social Media Marketing Businesses should create attractive posts, showcase positive customer feedback, and use relevant hashtags, to enhance online visibility. Utilize social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter for effective product promotion, audience interaction, and traffic to your Etsy shop. ### Collaborations and Influencer Marketing Partner with influencers or bloggers in your niche to promote your digital products. Collaborate on content, offer exclusive discounts or freebies, and leverage their audience to generate more visibility and sales. ### Email Marketing Build an email list by offering subscribers a free digital product or exclusive content. Send regular newsletters to promote new products, sales, or limited-time offers to your subscribers. ### Paid Advertising Consider investing in paid advertising platforms like Etsy Ads or external advertising channels to increase visibility for your shop. Set a budget, target relevant keywords, and monitor the performance of your ads to optimize your return on investment. ### Cross-Promotion Join other Etsy sellers or businesses that complement your own to promote each other’s products. Collaborating with others can increase your exposure and introduce your shop to fresh prospects. Optimizing and adapting Etsy SEO is continuous and requires constant monitoring and adjustment. It is important to regularly analyze performance, track keyword rankings, and stay informed about market trends. Experimentation with different strategies and observing customer feedback can lead to necessary adjustments for maximizing sales and profitability. ## Boost Your Etsy Shop Using Efficient SEO Tactics Gaining knowledge and applying Etsy SEO strategies can significantly improve the visibility and exposure of the products you sell in your shop. By conducting comprehensive keyword research, utilizing all relevant words in titles and tags, optimizing descriptions, accurately categorizing and attributing listings, ensuring relevance, and enhancing your shop’s overall SEO, you can attract the appropriate target audience and enhance the likelihood of turning visitors into paying customers.  Focusing on various promotional strategies like social media marketing, influencer collaborations, email marketing, paid advertising, and cross-promotion is crucial to expand your reach and enhance traffic to your Etsy shop. You can increase your sales potential on Etsy and boost your shop’s online presence by integrating effective SEO methods with strategic marketing efforts. ## Utilizing the Skills of an SEO Expert If you’re interested in increasing the visibility of your Etsy shop and enhancing your online sales, consider the assistance of an SEO expert. An SEO expert can help expand your store’s reach and increase sales by improving its search engine visibility. Your store can attract more organic traffic and improve its online presence through keyword research, content optimization, and technical improvements. By collaborating, we can develop a customized SEO strategy tailored to your needs and budget.  If you found this post enjoyable, consider exploring additional articles I have written about SEO. These articles cover various topics and strategies that may benefit your business. - [How to Do Keyword Research – The Complete Guide 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2023 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [The Best SEO Guide For 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) Share your thoughts in the comment section below and let others know about the invaluable role of digital marketing consultants, particularly SEO experts, in driving business growth.  ## How Etsy SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When a shopper asks Perplexity ‘best handmade on Etsy,’ the engine pulls from Etsy listings AND from external sources (review sites, Reddit threads, blog roundups). Sellers who build a small external footprint — a Shopify-side product page, a few blog mentions, a couple of high-quality external reviews — get pulled into more AI answers than sellers with Etsy-only presence. Practical move: for your top 5 Etsy products, build one external content asset each (a long-form blog post on your own site, a YouTube video, a Reddit AMA). Cross-link them. AI engines will start citing those external assets in shopping queries, and the citations route shoppers back to your Etsy listing. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for Etsy SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). ## FAQ — Etsy SEO in the AI search era ### Do AI engines drive meaningful traffic to Etsy listings in 2026? Yes, especially for niche, considered-purchase categories where shoppers research before buying. Less for impulse purchases. ### Should Etsy sellers have their own website in 2026? If you want AI-engine discovery beyond Etsy’s internal search, yes. Even a simple Shopify or Wix site gives you a citable external asset that AI engines can reference. ### How do I track AI-engine traffic to my Etsy shop? Etsy doesn’t expose granular referrer data the way a self-hosted site does. Use UTM parameters on any external links pointing to your Etsy listings, and track the UTM-tagged traffic in Etsy’s stats. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Google Voice SEO Tips [Ultimate Voice Search Guide] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Voice search has converged with AI assistants in 2026 — the same Perplexity, ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini that answer typed queries also answer voice queries through assistants and smart devices. The voice-specific tactics in this post still apply for traditional voice search; the GEO section explains how voice search now lives inside the broader AI-search world. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Voice search has converged with AI assistants in 2026 — the same Perplexity, ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini that answer typed queries also answer voice queries through assistants and smart devices. The voice-specific tactics in this post still apply for traditional voice search; the GEO section explains how voice search now lives inside the broader AI-search world. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* Guest post by Michael Jean. (Want to guest post? [click here](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/)) The chances are big that you’re familiar with [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), as it plays quite a big role in marketing nowadays. The real question is whether you know what Google Voice SEO is? I bet you don’t otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this article. So, are you ready to find out what Google Voice SEO is and how you can use it to your advantage? Then you’re in the right place and you should definitely continue reading so you can learn. ## What is Google Voice SEO? You know what SEO is, it stands for Search Engine Optimization, which basically means that you use specific keywords in your websites, blogs, articles and other writing to make it more findable by search engines such as Google. Now, what is Google voice? It’s something that is relatively new and it is what many of us will know as Siri or Google now. Google voice is how many people are using search engines nowadays. One big example is Google Home, a new device that has come on the market and through which people can use their voice to search the internet. Every day there are more people that use this kind of technology for searching the internet, which means that you should also be adapting your writing in such a way that it can be found through these voice searches. You may think that using SEO in your writing ensures that they will be found equally through regular search engines and through voice searches, but research has found that this is actually not the case. If you want to make your web pages more findable through voice searches then you need a specific kind of SEO, which we know as Google Voice SEO. In short, Google Voice SEO is optimizing your writing for being found through voice searches. ## Do you think it matters? You could argue that Google Voice SEO is not important enough to spend your money and attention on, but let me convince you of the opposite. First of all, I have a fact that no one can argue with and that is that back in 2014, which is four years ago already, 55% of all adults used Siri every now and then. That is more than half the population, that are a lot of people who are using voice search. Another fact is that voice search is only becoming more and more common, so if you don’t jump on the wagon now it might be too late and you’re left behind. Now you could also argue that Google voice SEO is really not that different from regular SEO, so you don’t need to treat it separately. Once again I beg to differ. Research that companies have been doing showed that people use different keywords when using voice search in comparison to searching from their desktop. On top of this, sometimes what we say isn’t what the device searches for. Siri will not always perfectly understand you and will search for something that is different from what you said, which is also something that you need to take into account when using Google Voice SEO. ## How do you use Google Voice SEO? For regular SEO the rules are pretty clear, you need to know what keywords people are using in their search engines and you need to incorporate these keywords into your writing, but what is the difference between SEO and Google Voice SEO? You might think that SEO has everything to do with the words you use, but this is not quite the case. One example of Google Voice SEO that seems to be really important is the speed of your page. Devices that work with voice search tend to load the page within an average of 4.6 seconds, which is 52% than the loading speed for the average webpage. In other words, your website won’t be loaded when it’s too slow. Improving your page speed is vital if you want to be [found by Google Voice devices](https://alejandrorioja.com/mobile-seo-mistakes/). Having an HTTPS website will also help enormously with the Google Voice SEO. It turns out that over 70% of all the websites that are shown by a Google Home, which is one kind of voice search device, are HTTPS websites. Your website will be found a lot sooner when it carries the HTTPS mark. Another feature that is very important for Google Voice SEO is the engagement on social media regarding the article, page or website. The average result from a Google Voice search has been shared more than 1100 times on Facebook, so it’s smart to make it a goal to get a lot of shares on social media from your content. Now we’ve named all kinds of features that have nothing to do with words, but this doesn’t mean that words don’t matter. The average page found by a voice search has roughly 2000 words, which aren’t very long pages but they are not incredibly short either. You can do with this information what you want. Another way language usage can affect your Google Voice SEO is the complication of the language you use. As it shows, simple content that is easy to read will be found a lot sooner by a Google Voice device than content with a lot of difficult words and complicated sentence structures. Therefore it may be better to do aside with all that difficult language and fancy words, for optimal SEO you should keep it simple. ## Featured snippets One aspect of Google Voice SEO that I want to address in a little more detail is the featured snippet. Google has been creating more and more featured snippets, they are the fragments that are presented at the top of the search results as the answer to a direct question. Apparently a lot of people who use Google Voice ask direct questions because more than 40% of all the results given by such a Voice search came from a featured snippet. The featured snippets used to all come from Google itself, but now they are also using information from other websites. There are a couple of ways that can increase your chances of making your webpage a featured snippet. The first thing is that you should literally the question you’re answering in the content. On top of this, you want the answer to be detailed, but not too long-winding. You have probably seen the featured snippets so your webpage should contain something like that. *Related: Here’s more info about [winning the Featured Snippet](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/#How_to_Win_The_Featured_Snippet).* Now there is a difference between regular SEO and Google Voice SEO, but if your webpage does well with regular SEO then the chances are bigger that it will also do well with Google Voice SEO. Google Voice SEO is something that you can focus on, but I do recommend you to put regular SEO first, as regular SEO has more effect on Google Voice SEO than the other way around. Hopefully, you now understand what Google Voice SEO is, why it is important to you and how you can use it for your web pages. Google Voice SEO might not currently be the most important kind of SEO out there, but it will become more and more important in the future. Therefore I do think that it’s important that you put some attention towards it and learn the ins and outs. Now you shouldn’t forget completely about [regular SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) as this is also an important part of Google Voice SEO and will also always remain important. The best thing you can do is focus equally on both kinds of SEO to [get the best ranking results](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). When you do this you are sure to have your web pages found and read by a lot more people than currently. And we know that more traffic is always a good thing that will boost your blog, business or whatever you have web pages for. Other articles you will enjoy: - [Best SEO Tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [How to optimize your on-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## How voice search and AI assistants works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When you speak a query to an AI assistant in 2026, the assistant runs essentially the same generative-search flow as a typed query — pulls candidate sources, extracts a clean answer, cites the sources. The page that gets read aloud is the page that wins. And the page that wins has a clean TL;DR the assistant can lift verbatim. Speakable schema, which used to be a niche markup type, is now a primary GEO move. It tells the engine which specific sentence on your page is the one to read aloud. Pair it with a tight 1-2 sentence answer at the very top of any post that targets a voice-style query. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for voice search and AI assistants 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/), [YouTube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/). ## FAQ — voice search and AI assistants in the AI search era ### Is voice search still a separate optimization concern in 2026? Less than it was in 2020. Voice and AI-assistant queries converge on the same generative-search pipeline; optimizing for AI engines covers most voice-search cases automatically. ### Should I add Speakable schema to all my pages? Only to the pages where you have a clean, lift-able single-sentence answer at the top. Speakable on a page with no clear answer is wasted markup. ### Do AI assistants cite sources audibly when reading answers? Inconsistently — some say ‘according to ’ before reading, others don’t. Citations are more reliable in the visual interface than the audio one. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How Does SEO Improve Marketing On The Global Scale Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: International SEO — multiple languages, regional sites, hreflang, geo-targeting — works largely the same way in 2026 as it did in 2024. What’s new is the AI-search angle: AI engines handle multi-language content differently than Google, and the optimization rules that work for Google’s international search aren’t a perfect overlap with AI-engine preferences. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** International SEO — multiple languages, regional sites, hreflang, geo-targeting — works largely the same way in 2026 as it did in 2024. What’s new is the AI-search angle: AI engines handle multi-language content differently than Google, and the optimization rules that work for Google’s international search aren’t a perfect overlap with AI-engine preferences. The post below covers the classic mechanics; the GEO section covers the AI nuances. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line User traffic is an indispensable component of any successful company website, as it is the driving force behind generating leads, converting customers, and achieving business objectives. From a potential customer’s perspective, traffic is equally crucial, enabling them to discover and explore my business offerings.  Without sufficient traffic, your website will remain invisible to potential customers, making it challenging to reach your desired outcome. With SEO, you can forget these problems and increase your website’s traffic.  As a business owner, I understand the importance of increasing traffic to my company website. With so much competition online, having a strong digital presence is crucial for reaching potential customers and driving sales.  I always look for effective ways to boost traffic and improve online visibility. There are a lot of things you can do to attract more people to your website.  Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your online presence to the next level, SEO can help you achieve your traffic goals and grow your business. In this post, I will share some of the tactics I have used to increase traffic to my website successfully! ## What is SEO? [Search Engine Optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), commonly called SEO, is a set of techniques and strategies to improve a website’s visibility and ranking in search engine results pages (SERPs). The ultimate goal of SEO is to drive organic traffic to a website, which can lead to increased brand awareness, improved website engagement, and, ultimately, more sales. The concept of SEO is relatively straightforward. Search engines use complex algorithms to crawl and index websites, determining their relevance and importance based on various factors such as content quality, keywords, backlinks, and user experience.  SEO strategies aim to optimize these factors to improve a website’s visibility and ranking on SERPs. The goal of search engines is to provide the most relevant and useful results to users, which is why they constantly update their algorithms to ensure that the highest quality content is displayed on the SERPs. As a website owner, understanding what SERPs want is crucial to improving your website’s ranking and visibility. ### 1\. High-Quality Content Content must be informative, well-written, and relevant to the user’s search query. The content should answer the user’s question and provide value to them.  ### 2\. Good User Experience Your website should be easy to navigate, load quickly, and be mobile-friendly. The website’s design should be visually appealing, and the content should be organized logically and easily.  ### 3\. Strong Backlink Profile This means that other websites should link to your content, indicating that it is valuable and useful. The quality and relevance of the backlinks are also important factors.  ### 4\. Optimized for SERPs Websites should have relevant keywords in their content, titles, and meta descriptions. The website’s structure should be well-organized, and the URLs should be easy to read and understand.  ## Features of SEO SEO comprises a range of techniques and strategies that aim to improve a website’s ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs) by optimizing various on-page and off-page factors. Here are some of them:  ### 1\. Keyword Research Keyword research is an essential component of SEO that involves identifying and analyzing the phrases and words that internet users commonly use when searching for products, services, or information. It is an important aspect of SEO because it provides insights into how potential customers search for information about a particular industry or niche. The first step is to identify the target audience and their search behavior. Understanding the audience’s demographics, interests, and preferences can help businesses to identify the most relevant keywords that align with the audience’s needs and wants.  Businesses can use various tools to identify popular search terms and phrases relevant to their industry or niche. The second step is to analyze the search intent of potential customers. It could be informational, transactional, or navigational.  By analyzing the search intent, businesses can optimize their website content to match the user’s intent and provide relevant information to the user. Once businesses have identified relevant keywords, they can incorporate them into their website content, including the title tags, meta descriptions, and on-page content. It is important to note that keyword stuffing, or overusing keywords, can result in a penalty from search engines and negatively impact a website’s ranking. ### 2\. On-page Optimization A key component of SEO is [on-page optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), which entails tweaking a website’s numerous on-page elements to raise its search engine ranking. It assists search engines in understanding the content of a web page and its connection to a certain search query. Optimizing website content involves ensuring the content is relevant, unique, and valuable to the user. Businesses must also incorporate relevant keywords into their content to improve its relevance to the user’s search intent.  Optimization includes formatting it correctly, using subheadings, and incorporating multimedia elements such as images, videos, or infographics to enhance user engagement. ### 3\. Off-page Optimization Off-page optimization is a crucial component of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) that involves optimizing various off-page factors that affect a website’s search engine ranking. [Off-page optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) helps to establish a website’s credibility and authority in its industry or niche. Backlinks are one of the critical off-page optimization factors that businesses must consider. A backlink is a link from another website to your website.  Search engines consider backlinks to indicate a website’s credibility and authority. Businesses must generate high-quality backlinks from reputable and authoritative websites in their industry or niche.  ### 4\. Content Creation Content creation involves creating high-quality, relevant, and [valuable content](https://gizmodo.com/how-seo-software-is-changing-the-way-we-read-and-write-5902365) for a website. Creating optimized content that matches the target audience’s search intent can help businesses improve their search engine ranking and drive organic traffic to their website. The first step in content creation is identifying the target audience and understanding their search intent. Businesses must conduct extensive research to understand their target audience’s pain points, needs, and interests.  By understanding their target audience, businesses can create content that resonates with them and drives engagement. Once the target audience has been identified, businesses must create optimized content that matches their search intent. Optimized content includes using relevant keywords and phrases in the content, meta descriptions, and title tags.  Using relevant keywords, businesses can signal to search engines that their content is relevant and valuable to users. ### 5\. Link Building Link building is done by acquiring backlinks from other reputable websites to improve a website’s search engine ranking. The first link-building step is identifying websites relevant to a particular industry or niche. Businesses can then begin the process of acquiring backlinks.  There are several ways to acquire backlinks, including guest posting, broken link building, and social media sharing. It is important to note that not all backlinks are created equal. Backlinks from reputable websites with high domain authority are more valuable than backlinks from low-quality websites.  Therefore, businesses must focus on acquiring backlinks from reputable websites to improve their search engine ranking. ### 6\. Analytics and Reporting One of the essential metrics that businesses track is traffic.  By tracking the amount of traffic a website receives, businesses can determine the effectiveness of their SEO strategies. They can identify which pages generate the most traffic and adjust their strategies accordingly. The bounce rate is another essential measure. The percentage of visitors that depart a website after reading a single page is referred to as the bounce rate. This might suggest that a web page is not offering a service or content consumers are seeking.  By analyzing the bounce rate, businesses can identify areas for improvement and adjust their website’s content and user experience accordingly. ## Advantages of SEO As a business owner, you want to stay ahead of the game and maximize your online presence. Here are five [advantages](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/02/07/seo-what-it-is-and-why-its-important/?sh=4bf701f64ace) of SEO that can help you achieve your goals: ### 1\. Increased Visibility Increased visibility is one of the most significant advantages of SEO for businesses. By improving your website’s visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs), you can increase the likelihood of potential customers finding your website when they search for products or services related to your industry or niche. ### 2\. Improved User Experience SEO has become an essential aspect of online marketing for businesses. Besides improving a website’s search engine ranking, SEO can enhance user experience.  When implementing SEO strategies, businesses must prioritize the needs and preferences of their target audience to create a user-friendly website that delivers a positive experience. ### 3\. Cost-effective Marketing In today’s highly competitive business landscape, ensuring you make the most of your marketing budget is important. While other marketing tactics can be costly, SEO can provide significant returns on investment without breaking the bank. ### 4\. Long-term Results SEO is an essential marketing strategy for businesses looking to improve their online visibility and attract more organic traffic to their website. While some marketing strategies provide quick results, SEO is a long-term investment that can provide sustainable results over time.  One of the significant advantages of SEO is that it can provide long-term results that can help you to build a robust online presence. ## Myths About SEO SEO is constantly evolving, so many myths and misconceptions exist about what works and what doesn’t. Here are some common SEO misconceptions people have. ### 1\. Keyword Stuffing One of the most common SEO myths is that you must stuff your content with as many keywords as possible to rank higher in search results. Keyword stuffing can hurt your search engine ranking, as search engines now prioritize quality content written for human readers, not search engines. ### 2\. Links Are All That Matters While backlinks are important for SEO, they are not the only factor that matters. Quality content, on-page optimization, and user experience all play a significant role in your website’s search engine ranking. ### 3\. SEO Is A One-time Fix SEO is not a one-time fix but a continuous process. Search engines constantly update their algorithms, so you must optimize your website to stay ahead of the curve. ### 4\. Paid Search Boosts SEO While paid search can help you to attract more traffic to your website, it does not directly boost your SEO ranking. Paid search and SEO should be used together to maximize your online visibility. ### 5\. Meta Tags Are Crucial While meta tags, such as meta descriptions and title tags, can help to improve your click-through rate, they are not a major ranking factor. Focus on creating quality content that meets the needs of your target audience, and the search engine ranking will follow. ## Attract More Users SEO is a powerful tool that businesses can use to improve their online presence and reach their target audience. Optimizing your website for search engines can increase your visibility, improve the user experience, and drive organic traffic to your site.  While SEO can be a complex and ever-changing field, you can see significant results and achieve your online goals with the right approach and strategy. So, don’t hesitate to start implementing SEO strategies and watch your website grow in visibility and credibility. Like this post? Read more about how to improve your website: - [A list of SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [Link Building Strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) - [How to increase your Alexa rank](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/) ## How global / international SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines in 2026 cite English sources disproportionately, even when answering queries in other languages. They translate on-the-fly. So a high-quality English source can get cited in a Spanish or French AI-engine answer — the threshold for citation is content quality and structure, not the user’s query language. That changes the strategic calculus for sites deciding whether to translate or write originally in each language. Practical 2026 take: if your content originates in English and you’re translating with Polylang/WPML, the original English versions will likely be cited by AI engines for both English-language and translated-language queries. The translated versions still serve native-language SEO and human users — both layers matter — but the AI-engine investment goes into the original. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for global / international SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/). ## FAQ — global / international SEO in the AI search era ### Do AI engines cite translated content or original-language content? Both, but original-language tends to get cited more often, even when the user query is in the translated language. Engines translate on-the-fly when they cite cross-language. ### Should I translate my content for every market in 2026? For human users, yes if those markets are commercially important. For AI-engine citations, the original-language version often suffices. Translate strategically based on user demand, not just citation potential. ### Does hreflang still matter for AI engines? Less than for Google’s traditional indexing. Hreflang is mostly about Google serving the right language version to the right user — AI engines do their own language matching at query time. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How Does White Label SEO Work? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-white-label-seo-work/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: White-label SEO — agencies reselling SEO work under their own brand — is a stable business model that’s adapting to the AI-search era. The mechanics in this post still describe how white-label works; the GEO section covers what white-label SEO providers should be adding to their service offering in 2026 to stay competitive. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** White-label SEO — agencies reselling SEO work under their own brand — is a stable business model that’s adapting to the AI-search era. The mechanics in this post still describe how white-label works; the GEO section covers what white-label SEO providers should be adding to their service offering in 2026 to stay competitive. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line White-label SEO allows businesses to leverage the power of established websites while maintaining their unique brand identity. By customizing sites and optimizing them for search engines, companies can expand their market reach, attract new customers, and enhance their online visibility.  White label SEO can lead to efficient source distribution, better search engine ratings, and access to new client segments. Adopting this approach can deliver businesses a bonus within the digital world and assist them in attaining untapped potential.  I have observed a growing inclination towards white-label SEO in digital marketing. This innovative approach enables companies to harness the capabilities of third-party websites while customizing the content and design to suit their requirements. The most attractive aspect of white label SEO is its ability to facilitate the expansion of a customer base without having to establish an entirely new brand.  White-label SEO enables businesses to use pre-existing websites and customize them to meet their specific needs, expanding their scope and enticing fresh clientele. Businesses can use an SEO firm’s established traffic without revealing their identity by teaming up with them. Allows them to present the website as their creation. Utilizing white-label SEO helps businesses save time and resources, allowing them to focus on their main operations while benefiting from optimized websites. It also allows businesses to explore different [digital marketing approaches](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/), such as establishing direct client relationships and utilizing referrals. Nonetheless, choosing a reputable agency, staying involved, and prioritizing ethical practices are crucial. Embracing white-label SEO can empower businesses to unlock their full potential and drive growth in the competitive digital landscape. ## Understanding White Label SEO White-label SEO is a valuable technique in Internet marketing that enables businesses to personalize an existing website owned by another company. It involves replacing the original company’s name and branding with their own, allowing businesses to harness the established traffic and visibility of the website.  The primary objective of white-label SEO is to attract potential customers who may have yet to come across the business.  This approach eliminates the need for businesses to invest substantial resources in building a website from scratch or establishing a prominent brand presence. White-label SEO is cost-effective and efficient, allowing businesses to expand their online visibility and reach new customer segments in the digital landscape. ## Process of White Label SEO When businesses decide to use white-label SEO, they begin by seeking help from an SEO company to build and oversee their website. In this partnership, the SEO company works discreetly, ensuring the business’s identity remains concealed, and presents the website as though it was created in-house by the business.  White label SEO allows businesses to take advantage of their current website visitors and increase their customer base without spending much money on website upkeep. Marketing agencies can benefit from White Label SEO Services because they offer specialized SEO knowledge under the agency’s brand. It enables agencies to offer comprehensive SEO services without maintaining an in-house team. Hiring and keeping an internal SEO team can be a complicated and costly procedure, as it involves recruiting skilled individuals, providing training, overseeing additional staff, and paying full-time wages. ## Unveiling the Benefits of White Label SEO Unlock the potential of your online presence with White Label SEO. Discover the numerous benefits and advantages it offers businesses seeking to expand their reach and dominate the digital landscape. ### Branding and Customization One of the key advantages of white-label SEO is the ability to incorporate branding efforts seamlessly. Businesses can associate their brand name with the SEO service while leveraging the expertise of the SEO provider.  This approach allows for a harmonious blend of the business’s unique identity and the specialized knowledge offered by the SEO company. Additionally, customization is vital in tailoring the website to align with the business’s specific requirements and preferences. ### Enhanced Search Engine Visibility White-label SEO [optimizes websites for search engines](https://alejandrorioja.com/user-optimization-principles/), improving rankings in relevant search results. Securing a higher position in search engine rankings helps build trust and credibility among potential customers. The perceived reliability of businesses that appear at the top of search results often translates into increased customer engagement and a higher likelihood of conversions. ## The Power of White Label SEO for Business Growth Discover the Time and Resource Efficiency that enables businesses to focus on core operations while experienced professionals handle SEO responsibilities, as well as the [Expanding Market Reach](https://www.startupguys.net/seo-marketing-campaigns-elevates-entrepreneurs/) that enables businesses to connect with new client groups and create exceptional growth. ### Time and Resource Efficiency White-label SEO empowers businesses to prioritize their core operations while entrusting day-to-day optimization tasks to seasoned professionals. This approach saves valuable time and resources invested in developing an in-house SEO infrastructure.  By leveraging the existing expertise and infrastructure of the SEO provider, businesses can optimize their operations and streamline their growth strategies. ### Expanding Market Reach White label SEO opens doors to new customer segments, allowing businesses to extend their market reach beyond traditional boundaries. By tapping into the exposure provided by white-label SEO, businesses can connect with customers who may have yet to discover them through conventional marketing efforts. Its expanded reach presents abundant opportunities for business growth and acquiring new customers. ## Choosing the Right White Label SEO Provider Utilize the power of white-label SEO by understanding the importance of choosing a reputable agency if they want to get the most out of white label SEO. A good agency will ensure that its SEO services are really good and match what the business wants to achieve. Take caution with average agencies and give importance to credibility. It is crucial to prioritize credibility and select an agency with a proven successful outcome history. Analyzing case studies of past clients can offer valuable insights into the capabilities and achievements of an agency as a measure of success. These case studies act as proof of the agency’s proficiency and efficiency.  A well-functioning reporting structure facilitates clear and transparent communication between the agency and the business. Businesses need to evaluate how the agency delivers updates and reports concerning the advancement of SEO campaigns.  Although cost is important, it should not be the only factor when selecting a white-label SEO provider. Businesses should assess pricing structures to meet profitability objectives and offer a justifiable value proposition. ## Staying Engaged and Avoiding Black Hat Tactics Remember to achieve long-term success with white-label SEO is a continuous process. You should prioritize treating it as such, actively monitor agency actions, and adhere to ethical principles to encourage long-term growth and prevent the negative effects of employing black hat tactics. ### Treating White Label SEO as an Ongoing Process White-label SEO should be viewed as an ongoing process rather than a one-time solution. Businesses need to stay engaged and actively monitor the activities of the SEO agency to ensure continuous improvement and adherence to ethical practices. ### Vigilance in Monitoring Agency Activities Keep a tight check on the white-label SEO agency’s strategy and approaches. Ensure they adhere to ethical standards and refrain from using black hat SEO techniques, which can affect your company’s online presence and reputation. Review the work and results regularly to verify they meet your goals and adhere to industry best practices. ### Ethical Practices and Avoiding Black Hat Tactics Select a white-label SEO provider that follows ethical SEO practices and emphasizes sustainable results. Engaging in [Black Hat Tactics](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnrampton/2015/07/29/25-black-hat-techniques-that-are-killing-your-seo/?sh=67a7e6586431) such as keyword stuffing, cloaking, and purchasing links can result in search engine penalties and harm your website’s rankings. Collaborate with an agency that employs white hat SEO strategies to guarantee your website’s organic growth and enduring prosperity. ## Exploring Alternative Approaches Expand your business growth potential by exploring alternative approaches such as developing direct client relationships, harnessing the power of referrals, and even considering paying lead-finding fees in addition to white-label SEO efforts. ### Direct Client Relationships and Referrals While white-label SEO is a powerful approach, businesses can also consider developing direct client relationships and leveraging referrals. This alternative approach can complement white-label SEO strategies and provide additional avenues for business growth. To increase the exposure of your website and attract potential customers, conduct [keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-features-to-look-for-in-keyword-research-tools/), optimize your website, generate relevant content, and implement targeted SEO strategies.  Using social media platforms and an effective link-building plan can also help you enhance your online visibility and referrals. Creating shareable, high-quality material and encouraging clients to share great experiences can help to increase word-of-mouth referrals. ### Paying Lead Generation Fees for Successful Referrals Another option is to pay lead-finding fees to individuals or agencies that refer potential clients to the business. It incentivizes others to promote the business activities and can result in new customer acquisitions.  Optimize landing pages and use conversion rate optimization techniques to improve lead generation through SEO. Continuously analyze performance to identify areas for improvement and optimize lead generation strategies. ## Maximize Your Digital Potential with White-Label SEO Strategies White label SEO gives organizations a powerful alternative for increasing their online presence and driving growth. Companies can tap into new client segments and improve their operations by using existing websites, personalizing content, and optimizing for search engines.  It is critical to choose a reputable white-label SEO service, participate actively in the process, and follow ethical standards.  With these ideas in mind, businesses may realize the full potential of white-label SEO and achieve outstanding results in the ever-changing world of digital marketing. Accept white-label SEO to move your organization forward and capitalize on the limitless potential it provides. ## Reach Your Full Potential With White Label SEO If you want to elevate your business and improve your online presence, it is worth considering the potential of white-label SEO. By utilizing the skills and resources of a trustworthy white-label SEO provider, you can take advantage of their expertise to significantly grow your business.  Take the chance to attract more customers, expand your market reach, and outperform your competitors with white-label SEO. Take the initial step and unlock your business’s potential for success today. If you found this article good, you might be interested in reading some of my search engine marketing-related articles. These articles cover topics and techniques that can help your business: - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [How To Conduct A Technical SEO Audit In 2023: A Step-By-Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2023 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) I hope you found this article on white-label SEO insightful and informative. I’d love to hear from you if you have any thoughts, questions, or personal experience with white-label SEO. ## How white-label SEO services works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) Clients in 2026 are increasingly asking about AI-search visibility, not just Google rankings. A white-label provider that only delivers classic SEO deliverables (rank reports, backlink-building reports, on-page audits) is already lagging the market. The new deliverables: AI-Overview citation reports, Perplexity source-share tracking, llms.txt setup, and GEO-structured content rewrites. Pricing for these new deliverables is still in flux — most agencies in 2026 bundle them into existing SEO retainers rather than charging separately. The white-label reseller arbitrage works the same way: provider builds the new GEO deliverables once, agency rebrands and resells. The provider that productizes AI-search reporting first wins the next year of market share. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for white-label SEO services 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — white-label SEO services in the AI search era ### Should white-label SEO providers add GEO services in 2026? Yes, urgently. Clients are asking. Providers that don’t add AI-search visibility to their offering will lose retainers to ones that do, even if the AI-search work is small relative to classic SEO. ### How do you price AI-search work in a white-label package? Most providers in 2026 bundle it — adding $300-1500/month per client to existing retainers depending on the depth of GEO work (citation tracking only vs. full GEO content rewrites). Standalone AI-search audits are starting to be productized as one-off deliverables in the $1,500-5,000 range. ### Are AI-search results harder to white-label than classic SEO? Slightly — there’s no equivalent of an ‘organic ranking report’ yet that’s industry-standard. Most providers are building custom dashboards or using Profound/Athena. The reporting layer is the productization opportunity. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How to use SEO to Build Your Brand Authority Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Building brand authority through SEO has always been about consistent, high-quality content over time. In 2026 that’s still true — and the AI-search era adds a new dimension: brand authority increasingly equals AI-engine citation share. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Building brand authority through SEO has always been about consistent, high-quality content over time. In 2026 that’s still true — and the AI-search era adds a new dimension: brand authority increasingly equals AI-engine citation share. The brand-authority playbook below still applies; the GEO section adds how to convert that authority into AI-engine visibility. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* Post written by: Chris Hickman, Founder and CEO at [Adficient](http://www.adficient.com/). ([want to guest post?](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/)) Your brand is the personality and qualities of your company, and it tells your customers why they should use your products or services. If you have strong brand authority, it’s easier to persuade your audience to purchase more from your business. Brand authority is what it sounds like: It’s the type of presence your brand commands, a preceding reputation of your expertise and trustworthiness. And while it *does* take some time (and grit) to craft a dominating [brand authority](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2017/07/24/what-we-talk-about-when-we-talk-about-brand-authority/#664698856210), it’s easier than you think. By using search engine optimization techniques, you can boost your brand authority. And because you need to use SEO for a great website, using SEO to improve branding kills two birds with one stone. ## 4 Ways to Build Brand Authority Let’s look at why [correctly implementing SEO](http://www.adficient.com/search-engine-optimization/) best practices can build your brand’s authority. ### 1\. Write Quality Content To Show Your Expertise **How [Quality Content Helps SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/):** Content is one of [Google’s top two ranking factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/), so it’s important to pack your website with quality, high-value, and informative content. The types of content to create will depend on your audience, but the trend these days is toward video content and infographics. However, some niches still prefer text-based content like blog posts and white papers. Whichever you choose, they all need to have high quality. **How Quality Content Builds Brand Authority:** Having a website rich in knowledgeable content will set the tone that you are an expert in your respective field. By touching on a variety of topics—from the basics to the “controversial”—you’ll touch on areas of interest for all members of your audience, whether they’re students looking for information or professionals wanting to stay informed. If you’re struggling to generate great topics, try thinking of questions that your audience might have and write blogs answering those questions. By specifically targeting questions that are frequently asked, you’ll come up more in relevant search results. You can also use a website such as [Answer the Public](https://answerthepublic.com) and grab new insights in seconds. ### 2\. Build Backlinks Through Easily Digestible Content **How Backlinks Help SEO:** [Backlinks](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) are great for two reasons. First, it helps boost your rankings if other websites of high caliber link to your website. Second, it tells readers that your website (or at least one piece of content) is valuable enough to be used as a source. Indeed, backlinks are the other fundamental part of SEO along with content. **How Backlinks Build Brand Authority:** Beyond the obvious connection between backlinks, high rankings, and the perception of brand based on SERP position, there is another way backlinks build brand authority: influencer marketing. If your content gets a backlink from influencers in your niche, it can have the power of a celebrity endorsement. One of the best [ways to build backlinks](https://www.crazyegg.com/blog/smart-ways-get-quality-backlinks/) is through easily digestible content. Both infographics and videos are highly shareable because they tend to be shorter and visually captivating. In fact, visual content is 40 times more likely to be shared on social media. Just make sure to choose one of the best marketing tools for backlink tracking to monitor the results of your efforts. ### 3\. Have a Clean UI and a Great User Experience **How an Organized UI Helps SEO:** A search engine’s bots will crawl your website to [index your content](https://blog.kissmetrics.com/get-google-to-index/). You want it to easily understand your website’s structure so it can find all of your relevant content. Surprisingly, a site UI that’s easy for bots to crawl is well-matched with a site UI that’s easy for humans to understand. An organized site brings a better user experience, which means more views and a further push up the rankings. **How an Organized UI Builds Brand Authority:** According to Siegel+Gale’s Global Brand Simplicity Index for 2017, 61% of consumers are more likely to recommend a brand that offers simpler experiences and communications. The same can be said of brand authority: You want to come across as an expert, but you also want people to identify your brand with a great experience. And by having an organized website, your audience can easily find your content and whatever else they may be seeking. ### 4\. Respond to Customers on Social Media **How Social Media Helps SEO:** Social media doesn’t affect your website’s rank; however, your brand’s social media *can* influence the content that appears in search results related to your brand. It’s also a great channel on which to share content. And [according to Neil Patel](https://www.quicksprout.com/2014/04/11/why-social-is-the-new-seo/), it’s best to “understand that search engine optimization includes the search that happens on social media search engines.” It’s just [another way potential customers can find you](https://www.awebtoknow.com/how/choose-right-strategy-for-business-growth/).  **How Social Media Builds Brand Authority:** Showcase your expertise by responding directly to your audience’s inquiries. When they tweet a question to you, you should do your best to respond quickly and thoroughly. Plus, by sharing quality content from your website on your social media accounts, you’ll be using another channel to showcase your knowledge of the field. ## Start Building Brand Authority Crafting quality content, building backlinks, having an [organized site structure](https://academy.wix.com/en/article/get-organized-your-guide-to-sitemaps-and-site-structures), and using social media are four fundamentals of search engine optimization. They will provide a good foundation on which to establish your brand’s authority (and help your site’s visibility in search engine results). But remember that it is your customers who ultimately determine your brand authority: They will tell others if they find you trustworthy and knowledgeable. To help ensure customers view your brand in high regard, stay consistent in using best SEO practices. Read these other posts to learn more about SEO: - [What is SEO? (A beginner’s intro)](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) - [How to do SEO like a PRO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [The ultimate best list of SEO articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) ## How brand authority via SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines evaluate brand authority through a few intersecting signals: domain age and reputation, the volume and quality of third-party mentions, the depth of the brand’s content footprint, and the consistency of voice and positioning. A brand that ranks for many high-intent terms in classic Google usually has the raw material for high AI-engine citation rates — what’s missing is usually the structural overlay. The fastest-moving brand-authority play in 2026 isn’t more content — it’s restructuring existing high-authority content for AI-engine extraction. Take your top 20 evergreen posts, add the GEO scaffold (TL;DR + FAQ + schema), and AI-engine citations follow within weeks. The authority was already there; the engine couldn’t access it cleanly. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for brand authority via SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [how I drive 250,000+ monthly visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). ## FAQ — brand authority via SEO in the AI search era ### How long does brand authority take to build via SEO in 2026? Same as 2024 — 18-36 months for most niches. AI search doesn’t shortcut the timeline, but it does reward existing brand authority more transparently than classic Google does. ### Does AI-engine citation share count as brand authority? Increasingly yes — both buyers and competitors measure it. Tracking AI citation frequency for your brand name and head terms is the 2026 brand-authority KPI. ### Should small brands try to compete with established brands for AI citations? Yes, in narrow topical niches. AI engines reward depth on a topic — a small brand with deep coverage of one niche can outcite a large brand with shallow coverage of many. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Diagnose Traffic Drops Using Google Analytics Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-diagnose-traffic-drops-using-google-analytics/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Diagnosing traffic drops in 2026 has a new culprit on the suspect list: AI-search displacement. When a query that used to drive clicks now triggers an AI Overview that summarizes your content without sending the click through, your traffic drops even when your ranking holds. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Diagnosing traffic drops in 2026 has a new culprit on the suspect list: AI-search displacement. When a query that used to drive clicks now triggers an AI Overview that summarizes your content without sending the click through, your traffic drops even when your ranking holds. The diagnostic flow below still applies; the GEO section adds the AI-search displacement check. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Traffic drops can say a lot about how your website is doing, which may have something to do with several issues, updates, or compliance with Google guidelines. With Google Analytics, you can identify the sources of your traffic drops to know where to start troubleshooting. But other causes of traffic drops may also be looked upon, such as the quality of your content, linking broken or outdated links, or even how fast your website loads. Google Search Console can also help you check internal errors that may interrupt users trying to access your website. Traffic drops can be identified using Google Analytics due to different factors affecting users’ experience accessing or navigating your content or website. Knowing where the traffic drops are coming from helps you know how to deal with them.  You can try resolving technical issues or adapting to what users search for using [Google Trends](https://www.oberlo.com/blog/google-trends). So in this article, I’ll show you [how you can use Google Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/common-google-analytics-data-errors-a-guide-on-how-to-fix-them/) to see if your website is experiencing traffic drops and what may be the causes of such decline. ## What Causes The Traffic Drops You may think that out of nowhere, traffic drops appear in your daily reports. Such sudden and unexpected traffic drops may be because of the following: ### Security Issues There are web pages where Google warns users of its potential security threats before accessing the site. This can make a decline in your web traffic because of the hassle and caution in which users won’t want to be involved. ### Technical Issues  You, your web developer, or your designer may have opted to use the “nofollow/noindex” code that prevents Google from indexing your webpage to be able to get rankings on the search results page. The code is usually used if you don’t want to have duplicate page contents or you don’t want unnecessary web pages to appear on search engines like your employee login page. However, you or your web developer may have left this enabled or tagged the webpage for it to be not indexed in WordPress. This may result in a traffic drop since it’s not indexed and won’t appear on the search engine results page. ### Algorithmic Updates Google’s algorithm is always updated and ever-changing, so it improves its system on how it will rank such web pages on the results page. Thus, your website’s rankings may also be lowered which can result in a traffic drop. Although, these modified and updated algorithms aren’t specifically and publicly stated. Usually, such updates are just confirmed by press releases. ### Compliance With Google’s Guidelines Google’s guidelines are strictly implemented. So if your web pages do not comply with the guidelines, Google can take action to remove the web pages from their Google search results page and make a sudden decline in your traffic.  You can follow these steps to check your Google Analytics for traffic drops. ## 1\. Identify The Source of The Traffic Drops You can particularly identify in Google Analytics which type of traffic has a sudden drop in volume. But first, you should know your website’s traffic types. ### Direct Traffic Direct traffic is the users who type the URL of your website directly in the browser, click through a direct email link, or access it through the bookmarked site. ### Organic Traffic Organic traffic is the users who used search engines and found your website on its results. The term “organic” means you didn’t pay for the site to be on the top of the results page but rather appear according to the users’ queries on the search box. Users usually click the sites on the top ranks since they have fully optimized themselves to be organically at the top results, which means more traffic on the site.  ### Paid Search Traffic Paid search traffic is from the paid ad campaigns and landing pages placed at the top of the search results page.  The contents on the landing page are optimized. The page is also paid simultaneously to increase its likelihood of being at the top when users run their searches. ### Referral Traffic Referral traffic is the users that come from different blog sites from which your site is linked to its contents. This may be from the guest blog you submitted. ### Email Traffic Email traffic comes from [clicking the link from the newsletters, flyers, and ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/6-best-email-marketing-services-for-small-business/) you sent to their email. ### Social Media Traffic If you’ve been sharing the link of your site’s content through social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, then your social media traffic would be coming from here. #### Using Google Analytics In Identifying Traffic Drops Source Follow these to get which type of traffic may be having traffic drops: - Once you’re logged in to Google Analytics, select the top icon on the left tab, known as the Report snapshot. - Then, under the Life cycle, select the Acquisition tab. - Click under All Traffic, the Source/Medium tab - You’ll then have the results of the traffic sources  ## 2\. Identify The Root Cause Once you’ve identified the source of the traffic drops, look for the underlying cause of the decline. For example, if the traffic drops came from organic traffic, then your rankings on the search engine page may have other factors to consider as to why it’s not getting more or enough traffic than usual. ### Other Causes Resulting From Traffic Drops Such sudden drops that may have caused you to have lower rankings on the search results page or engagement can be of the following. #### Low-Quality Content Contents are made for the benefit of the users to get engaged and follow more on your site as a thought leader and for your search engine optimization. Optimized keywords are indexed by Google, which can increase your search engine ranking if you comply with their guidelines and algorithms. So if users find your content of low quality, they might not also engage in your other content anymore. Google’s algorithms also look at the content’s quality, which would determine your place on the results page. #### Dead Links You should avoid linking to your content those links that are: 1. Outdated or not relevant anymore 2. Broken 3. Links to PBNs Google also now takes action by providing penalties to sites that [link their websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-3-backlink-building-strategies/) to private blog networks (PBNs). These PBNs may just be created to increase your link network for you, thus increasing your rankings. #### Out Of Date or Over-Optimized Keywords Google would know if you’re using the keywords to increase your ranking and get more traffic, so you should create content objectives focused on user experience and information. You should also create content that uses a more natural language since most users would use it searching on Google. Update those keywords so Google would increase your ranking since they will prefer your content and suggest it to more users. #### Slow Website Loading Time Regarding user experience, Google also considers how fast your website can load its contents and other media, such as images or videos. Google is into user experience, and they would prefer to increase the site’s rankings if it loads faster since this would create a good user experience. A user may leave and return to the search results page if the website takes too much time to load. If you may have experienced a traffic drop due to slow website speed, you can check the following on your site: 1. The site’s CSS is not optimized 2. The large media file size on the site 3. The site has many plugins. ## Google Search Console Google Search Console is another tool for you to determine your website’s ranking performance over time. You can check it on the [perform](https://support.google.com/webmasters/answer/7576553?hl=en)ance report in terms of your site’s performance on Google Search results. It also has a feature that alerts and provides information about malfunctions on your site. Thus, it can provide information like URL errors from devices like your desktop or smartphone. ## Bottom line The traffic drop can be diagnosed through Google Analytics, where you can identify which type of traffic and get into your web pages they visit to focus on resolving the issue.  However, other issues may be pressing on the sudden traffic drop. This can also be due to decreasing content quality or user experience navigating your website.  Google’s Search Console can also be a tool for looking at URL errors and comparing web traffic volume in the past few days, weeks, or years. Thus, this is how you can get insights and improve user experiences and rankings. Want to know more about web traffic? Check any of these posts! - [How to Get 250,000+ Visits (My Best Growth Hacks)](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) - [How To Design For Different Screen Size Gadgets](https://flux.la/designing-for-different-sized-gadgets/) - [DIY SEO – How to Do It Yourself](https://flux.la/diy-seo-how-to-do-it-yourself/) ## How diagnosing traffic drops works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The new traffic-drop diagnostic in 2026: open the queries you’ve lost traffic on in Google Search Console, manually search them in Google AI Overviews, see whether an AI Overview is now answering the query without sending the click. If yes, the drop is AI-search displacement, not a ranking loss — and the fix is structural, not algorithmic. When AI-search displacement is the cause, the fix isn’t to chase the rank back — it’s to be one of the cited sources in the AI Overview block. That brings the click-through back at lower CTR but with higher intent. Add the GEO scaffold (TL;DR + FAQ + schema) to the affected page and the citation usually follows within weeks. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for diagnosing traffic drops 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [how to 10X your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). ## FAQ — diagnosing traffic drops in the AI search era ### How do I tell if a traffic drop is AI-search displacement vs a ranking drop? Check classic ranking in Search Console — if you’re still ranking well but getting fewer clicks, displacement is likely. If ranking dropped too, it’s a classic ranking issue. ### Can I recover traffic lost to AI Overviews? Partially — by becoming a cited source in the AI Overview, you recapture some of the click-through (lower CTR than #1 organic but with higher intent). Full recovery to pre-AI-Overview levels is rare. ### Should I file a Search Console issue when AI Overviews displace my traffic? No — it’s not a bug. AI Overviews are working as intended from Google’s perspective. Adapt the page structurally instead. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Do B2B SEO: The Complete Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-b2b-seo-the-complete-guide/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: B2B SEO — long sales cycles, multiple decision-makers, technical content that builds credibility — is one of the niches most directly disrupted by AI search in 2026. B2B buyers research in ChatGPT and Perplexity at the very top of the funnel, and getting cited in those AI answers is increasingly how B2B buyers shortlist vendors. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** B2B SEO — long sales cycles, multiple decision-makers, technical content that builds credibility — is one of the niches most directly disrupted by AI search in 2026. B2B buyers research in ChatGPT and Perplexity at the very top of the funnel, and getting cited in those AI answers is increasingly how B2B buyers shortlist vendors. The B2B fundamentals below still apply; the GEO section explains how to shape content for AI-engine inclusion in vendor-research queries. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line B2B Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is an important strategy to help your business reach your target audience. It refers to your activities to achieve the highest search engine rankings in B2B markets.  The purpose of B2B SEO is to increase the amount of high-quality organic traffic to your website. More so, it allows you to rank higher in the search results and access valuable information that can help you grow your brand. This guide will familiarize you with B2B SEO best practices, and an effective B2B SEO strategy. Is your B2B company looking to expand its brand through an organic search? If you don’t know what you’re doing, getting to the top of the search engine results pages might be difficult.  Big businesses often invest huge sums of money into SEO with little to show for it. Fortunately, there are tried-and-true tactics that help them rank higher. The question is: Where should you showcase your brand and value proposition? and what methods would you use to collect and arrange data? That’s where B2B SEO comes in. Your digital strategy and target audience will be defined by the answers to these questions, and let me help you with that.  Having said that, what exactly does B2B SEO involve? In this guide, you will learn exactly that and more! ## What is B2B SEO? B2B SEO is a digital marketing strategy to help b2b pages rank higher on the search engine.   [SEO is an important](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) element for your business. You want it to be successful, and you cannot do it without good [SEO practices](https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-seo-search-engine-optimization). But how do you know if SEO is working properly?  An SEO campaign works only if organic traffic is generated via the search engine results page (SERPs). However, in the case of B2B companies, this kind of paid marketing does not generate much revenue.  As a result, they need to use other marketing channels like PBNs (paid search like banner ads) and affiliate programs. ## What is the Difference Between B2C and B2B SEO? The term “search engine optimization” is commonly used to refer to both B2C and B2B SEO. The main difference between the two is that, in B2B, you’re dealing with a small business, and you’re marketing to other small businesses. In B2C, you market directly to consumers and generally don’t need to deal with other businesses or industries. There is also a big approach between B2B SEO and B2C strategy. But while I want to discuss everything here, let’s focus on doing the right B2B SEO. First, here are the several challenges that make B2B SEO differ from B2C: #### Complicated Sales Funnels The sales funnel of a B2B campaign is different from the sales funnel of a B2C business. In B2B marketing, make sure your audience gets what they need to make the sale before getting to the point where they need help. There are several ways to accomplish this, such as using a funnel model or emails to promote a product. This is to ensure that you get to tap the right market with all your marketing efforts. But to make sure that you tap the right market, you have to conceptualize a compelling strategy. And here is where your SEO comes into play. Over the past few years, there has been a surge of websites and apps that help customers navigate the buying process from awareness to action. Not only does SEO help you raise your site’s rankings in the search engines, but it is also a powerful tool for bringing visitors and customers to your website. You can even create a database from your website’s visitors, and from there, you can create an effective business sales funnel. **Ready to scale your organic channels? Drop me a line and I’ll show you how much revenue potential you’re missing out on from SEO** .kb-form input.kadence-blocks-field.verify{opacity:0.0;position:absolute;top:0.0;left:0.0;width:0.0;height:0.0;z-index:-1;} Name Email\* Message\* Email Submit Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form .kadence-form-\_2990bb-44 .kadence-blocks-form-field.kb-submit-field { display: none; } #### The Need to Reach Multiple Decision Makers B2B purchases are long-term investments that have to be weighed up by the buyer. The buyer needs to be convinced about the ROI of the investment before they commit to it. If you are in the B2B space, you have to sell your products or services compellingly. You can create your target audience’s expectations by creating a viable campaign specifically targeting your market. Some executives, practitioners, and managers approached the decision with very different problems in mind. This will make you expect them to search Google for a very different inquiry. B2B company will need to make pages that are optimized for: 1. Answering planned questions from the practitioners, like, “How will I increase my email open rates?” 2. Answering high-level questions from others or your executive stakeholders, like the questions, “How to scale my marketing teams?” 3. Lastly, answering various questions for the managers, like “the best practices of email marketing,” “what is the best email marketing software,” etc. This will depend on the product or service you are selling or offering. The range of your buyer’s persona can get wider, too.  There are many clients out there that are targeting many different personas when they initiate an organic search. Of course, the need to target more people is still possible. #### Lower Volume of Keywords As you get more complicated sales to funnel, there are a lot of different search terms your target customer searched for. Meaning, you can find lower volume keywords than the B2C marketer expects. B2B SEOs need to analyze and work with keyword research skills. It needs to adapt what the audience wants and needs and find the search queries to adapt with their intent.  It is all about looking for the right keywords to make you target your target consumers with content. This will push them through the funnel’s next stage. #### Lower Conversion Rates One of the other challenges of a B2B SEO is lower conversion rates compared to B2C. Successful B2B SEO strategies attract the right site traffic that is looking for a particular product or service on offer. Know your audience, demonstrate how your product will be the solution to their problem, and well-designed strategies—these will surely give you success in B2B. #### The Need To Demonstrate Your Expertise Consumers love to pay attention to the company they are buying from, and B2B consumers shop differently than anyone.  B2B consumers want to see the confidence of your business and the value you offer before inquiring. They also want to make sure whoever they inquire about will surely give them the right solution for their business needs. You need to be in a position to demonstrate your expertise. SEO helps you show them that you’re an industry leader, and they trust the right company by using the right words they need to see. Having a good thought of leadership is the skill you need in persuading your target consumers. SEO can help you thrive in the market because, as we all know, we trust sites more when they are on the first page of the search. There are many ways that you can put your people in positions as experts in their field. Here are the common tactics that you can incorporate SEO strategies: 1. LinkedIn marketing 2. Guest posting 3. PR 4. Blogging 5. Video marketing 6. Podcast speeches 7. Webinars ## Is B2B SEO Important? Many online businesses want to rank better in search engines. It is because the Google algorithm has expanded, and there are many new things that it does.  For example, if you’re an e-tailer, you can use the Google Shopping feature to make purchases from your website.  However, this didn’t happen very often before Google launched it. Now, big companies like Amazon and eBay have become popular for people to buy products from them.  Since they’re impacting the market, large companies like Amazon and eBay must compete by offering their products at competitive prices.  If you want to compete with them, too, then you have to do SEO (search engine optimization). ## Reasons Why B2B Companies Needs SEO Search engine optimization, also known as SEO, is one of many digital marketing strategy foundations. It improves your page visibility within the search engine result pages or SERP.  The goal is to reach the first ranking position on Google. It is also done to boost your business’ online presence.  The four basic pillars of SEO are the following: 1. **Technical SEO:** Making sure that search engines  2. **On-page SEO:** To produce keyword-optimized content and also to improve the HTML tags 3. **Off-page SEO:** To build site authority with the use of backlinks from other websites 4. **Content strategy:** To get the target customers’ interest with your informational content Business-to-business (B2B) marketing is like any digital marketing: putting your brand. Instead of selling it to an individual, brands sell to those looking for industry products and solutions.  The solutions can help your business to improve. ## Advice for B2B SEO in 2021 This year is quite a rollercoaster, and everything you want to invest in is a risk. But the principles of B2B SEO don’t change enough. Here is the specific advice for SEOs this year. 1. Publishing original research or content to get links. If you have established your audience and exclusive data, use it to publish the kind of stats that journalists and bloggers in your niche will recommend.  2. If you represent a new product category, consider writing blogs or content that rank for terms in the category you’re deranging. Ranking for your new concept is not the main point; attracting the traffic from the old keywords. 3. Using YouTube is a plus, too, because it was also a search engine. You should consider putting the content of your high-performing SEO posts and make it a video. Also, try to make videos that cover the same category as your competitor’s other top SEO articles. 4. If you want to rank faster, you should contemplate distributing more. Try to get more exposure by promoting your product. Marketing your content and the business itself is a huge part of content marketing. 5. You also need to write your content or blogs that reflect your business objectives there. This is to inform your target audience on how their products or services will solve their problems. By showing them your objectives, it will make them think to click and sign-up. ## Strategy: B2B SEO Of course, there are strategies that you can follow to build a solid marketing foundation for your business. Here are the seven steps of the strategy process that you can do: ### Building a Persona The goal of this strategy is to build a persona for the [target audience of your SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/). It is important to set a profile for your customer. The more you know them and their preferences, the higher the success will be. Most businesses create different buyer or customer persona. By knowing your customer, you get to know them, their needs and problems, where they hang up online, etc. In this way, you can know what keywords you can use. You can also know what kind of things they search on different search engines. Depending on your business, the decision-maker could be your product manager or the one in charge of your inventory. ### Understanding the Sales Funnel Sales or marketing funnels are one way to envision your consumer’s journey. More so, it would help if you analyzed it first before choosing the keywords of your buyer or the customer’s persona. Some people are not familiar with the [sales funnel](https://alejandrorioja.com/clickfunnels-review/). Nonetheless, here are some of the strategies that you can start to analyze your funnel.  1. Consider initiating a talk to your sales team. You can ask them to explain the funnels, how it works, and many more. 2. Analyze your sales and data to know how your customers find your business. 3. Get the key stats of your business. Examples are the customer’s lifetime value, understanding the average customer retention, and time to purchase. You can also add the reasons why your customers leave or stop buying your product. ### Conducting a Keyword Research  In today’s competitive market, it’s all about getting your keywords optimized correctly for your B2B business. It would help find the perfect search queries that people are using to find the right business like yours. Many B2C marketers focus their efforts on doing keyword research, primarily on commercial search terms. Any successful B2B strategy must also address the informational queries. You can also use the SEMrush Keyword Magic Tool to find the perfect keyword your proposed buyer persona used. It will help you choose the right keyword and content that answers their questions, learn more, or find a supplier. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/m9uJ__Iwgnqc8JkMlAcCDECy9RNrcbbaCSFuBEavLTOI7IJFsQzSNyh_XLQYe_RlbpMx6ltkMwDzKqEoWysS9cwov50z09U6QXN2wXoD3nebfZ0nSU1cu_Gd3rMhLSrvsfsPT45D) Understanding the importance of finding the right keywords that align with the phase of the sales funnel needs to be prioritized. Struggling to find the best starting point in finding B2B keyword research is common. And these are the questions that might help you: 1. How could we search for ways to overcome these pain points? 2. What are the main features of my product and service? 3. What are the keywords that drive the highest amount of natural traffic for my competitors? 4. What are the problems that my persona faces? 5. How am I going to find the solution? ### Mapping Out A Strategy To Get Your Target Buyers Use top clusters to understand and explore your expertise to own SERPs for topics. Topic clusters are groups of content revolving around a specific topic with the use of a pillar page. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/03XKPRhUqhNaYZHZzbAsXvKiqhe2bnNvynjaWohgFy0CIWHKsSz-5wtZNthdI2EksozFaWFvh49PhZ8nT5BFY-zKN_SQ1qpCNJyFJfUVId-PUmDls92gO9KYMOM1OIyN_E7UM8FZ) Screenshot Link: [https://www.semrush.com/blog/b2b-seo/](https://www.semrush.com/blog/b2b-seo/)  Making your keyword strategy map can also help you organize your SEO. More so, it will be easier for you to know your expertise. In this stage, you have already chosen a keyword strategy that connects to your made buyer persona.  ### Optimizing Your Services or Products Pages [Optimizing your landing pages](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/07/20/six-ways-to-optimize-your-landing-page-for-conversions/?sh=756a14b137c3) is a must. Here are the three strategies for optimizing your B2B landing pages #### Writing a Unique Content Writing unique content will increase the ranking of your landing page. It will persuade your prospects to check your product or service when you post 100% unique content.  #### Consider Writing a Long Content Super short contents and pages are not enough to increase your rank. If there is not enough content for Google, it will not detect your site. The recommended way to solve this is to write a total of 500-1000 words for your content. Make it up to 2000 if you can. With longer content, you give your prospects interesting and compelling content to read. It will also improve your overall user experience. #### Including a Smart Keyword Usage Even though you can use it several times on your landing page, you should still use it strategically. Here are the places where you can insert your keyword: - Your keyword in your page’s H1 title or title tag - Your page URL that includes your keyword - Using synonyms and variations of your main keyword - Writing a unique meta description to increase the click-through-rate - Putting your keyword high up on your landing page Smart Keyword Usage can build and create more traffic, add depth to your page, and answer your target customers’ questions.  So, It is best to note the importance of earning rankings and creating content to attract traffic and drive sales from your prospects.   ### Building a Scalable Content Strategy A sales landing page sits at the very bottom of any B2B sales funnel. You can find it in the action stage. Having a scalable content strategy that drives the possibility to increase the funnel is vital for B2B SEO. In many cases, the content strategy involves your blog or your content hub. It would be best if you built out your topic clusters with rank-ready content or blogs. It needs to answer the consumer’s questions, get them on your radar, and introduce them to your business. Don’t focus on too low down the funnel. Otherwise, you are going to find your competitors are building awareness at an earlier stage than yours. B2B marketing involves a host of different content formats and tactics. This will get you in front of your target audience; these include: - Tools - Newsletters - Blog posts - eBooks - Videos - Research studies - Webinars - Podcasts - Templates and checklists ### Promoting Your Content and Earn Backlinks In terms of earning links to your B2B brand, having [content marketing](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/11/01/optimizing-your-b2b-content-marketing-on-linkedin/?sh=4e1a96d0562b) is one of the most effective tactics. Content marketing allows your prospects to know your brand better and develop close relationships with your business.  Nonetheless, once you’ve created content, you still need to put effort and time into promoting your page.  For your content to rank up, linking it to other websites can work. And as a part of the distribution strategy, you can use email outreach to encourage people to check your page. It could be in the form of: - A resource page - A recommended guide - An article ## Best Practices  One of the most important things about SEO is that the best practices remain constant even though algorithm adjustments occur regularly.  Nonetheless, It is up to [digital marketers](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/10/26/3-steps-all-marketers-must-take-to-be-successful-in-digital-marketing/?sh=748ae460a430) to ensure that their company follows these guidelines for website optimization. Your B2B brand should implement some tried and proven SEO best practices this year: - Optimized your Service and Product Pages  - Create a keyword strategy to target each buyer persona - Understand Your Keyword Possibilities - Create personas for your target audience As you can see, a thorough B2B SEO plan doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Your brand will be more likely to appear in search results if you focus on the techniques above.  Such practices may lead to more organic traffic and lead for your B2B brand. ## Put it All Together If it seems like designing a B2B keyword strategy is a lot of work, it is. With all of the jobs that must be specialized to succeed in an SEO campaign properly, it’s important to consider whether your internal staff has the time and training to handle it on their own. More so, It is important to realize that B2B SEO does not happen overnight. Thus, SEO will never yield immediate results. Nonetheless, with the help of a trusted partner, you can effectively rent a portion of their keyword specialists, content strategists, and SEO gurus by contracting with them, giving you access to expertise and experience you couldn’t gain on your own. Let me know so you can start your blog off on the right foot. Liked this article? Know more about SEOs, Sales, and Engagement: - [Geofencing Marketing: How Does It Work?](https://alejandrorioja.com/geofencing-marketing-how-does-it-work/) - [How To Do Digital Marketing: A Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) - [How To Conduct A Technical SEO Audit In 2021: A Step By Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) Leave a comment and share with your friends to keep them posted with the latest tips on building a successful SEO business strategy. ## How B2B SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The B2B AI-search query that matters most: ‘best for ’ or ‘ vs .’ AI engines pull from a mix of vendor sites, analyst reports, comparison sites, and Reddit/Hacker News threads to produce these answers. B2B vendors who get cited in those answers are on the buyer’s shortlist before they ever visit the vendor’s site. Practical B2B GEO moves in 2026: create comparison content (yourself vs. competitors, side-by-side feature/pricing), original benchmark data (customer outcome stats, performance numbers), and customer case studies with named brands and real numbers. AI engines preferentially cite these formats over generic landing-page content. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for B2B SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [how I drive 250,000+ monthly visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — B2B SEO in the AI search era ### Do B2B buyers actually use ChatGPT to shortlist vendors in 2026? Yes — survey data and my own client conversations confirm it. Especially common among technical buyers (developer tools, SaaS, analytics) and increasingly common among non-technical B2B. ### Should B2B vendors create comparison-vs-competitor content in 2026? Yes. Comparison content is one of the highest-leverage GEO formats for B2B because AI engines cite it directly when summarizing ‘X vs Y’ queries. Competitive risk is real but smaller than the visibility gain. ### How long is a B2B AI-search citation cycle? Citations for evergreen comparison content tend to be stable over months; citations for trend-driven ‘best of 2026’ content rotate more frequently as new entrants emerge. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Drive 10X Traffic To Your Website in 2026: Tips & Tricks Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: 10X traffic in 2026 means stacking three growth motors: classic SEO, AI search visibility, and high-leverage social distribution. The original tactics below cover Google + social. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** 10X traffic in 2026 means stacking three growth motors: classic SEO, AI search visibility, and high-leverage social distribution. The original tactics below cover Google + social. This refresh adds the AI-search motor — getting cited inside ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* In the digital age, the website is the number one source of information for your customers or just about anyone to know more about you or your business. But with several changes in the way we do business, the [website’s importance](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) has grown in 2022. The website is now integral for every company, individual, or service provider to not just provide information but enable customer interaction, business growth, and much more.  But as the competition in this space increases, improving the website’s credibility to boost conversions and generate more leads is critical. This can be achieved through [SEO (Search Engine Optimization)](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) to improve website ranking and generate various engagement channels to increase traffic.  But if you are looking for ways to increase website traffic, here are some proven ways to help drive 10x traffic to your website in 2022. ## Create Compelling Content  ![](/images/posts/inline/d7150c3a-top-view-laptop-desk_23-2148135576.jpg) While there are several ways to bring a user to the website, the quality of content on the website is critical to ensuring the lead gets converted. Sites need to have compelling content that is strategically designed for a particular target group.  The relevancy and uniqueness of the content will not only help to get conversions; it significantly reduces the bounce rate. This helps to get a higher ranking for the website as search engines and ensures higher credibility. Also, read *[here](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/)* the guide on the must-try content marketing trends to boost your web traffic ## Perform On-Page SEO   ![](/images/posts/inline/1953bde7-keywords-research-communication_36325-2228.jpg) While having high-quality content is the basic need, it is also important to write short meta descriptions for each of your pages. The meta description is seen below the URL in the search results and gives the reader an understanding of what your website is about. Having [on-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) and proper usage of long-tail keywords will provide a higher ranking for queries related to your products or services.  Optimize your keyword results by focusing on a particular keyword and using it as part of your long-tail keywords. Additionally, make sure you are using the target keyword and have specific keywords on each page. A great [seo strategy](https://www.growthmarketingpro.com/seo-strategy/) lets users have particular requirements to find the relevant page instead of navigating to get the answers.  ## Create An Online Listing  ![](/images/posts/inline/1ebf414f-girl-using-her-phone-her-homework_23-2148597975.jpg) Search engines have optimized their results to provide users with specific information that is verified and relevant. Registering for a business directory lets you control the information that will be shared when searching for a particular product or service of your business. This way, you can showcase specific details and your contact details without the user ever needing to visit the website. ## Generate Credible Backlinks  ![](/images/posts/inline/9ed9c518-woman-looking-mobile_1162-139.jpg) If you are well-versed with SEO, you’ll know how important it is to have credible backlinks. Backlinks entail the process of generating website leads from other sources, helping to get new leads and increasing credibility. Having [backlinks from reliable sources](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-prospecting/) helps get a higher ranking and are more likely to be trusted by search engines. So start interacting with the top influencers or publications in your industry to help drive qualified traffic to your site. Alternatively, you could try guest blogging and write content for top publications to get some traffic to your website. This can work both ways and can ensure that your influence on your target audience increases. ## Leverage The Power Of Social Media Marketing  ![](/images/posts/inline/e70c55c0-friends-holding-up-thought-bubbles-with-social-media-concept-icons_53876-7372.jpg) Another way to get traffic to your website is by using social media channels. Social media marketing is the process of selecting [social media platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) to help market your website and get users to it. The high number of active users on these platforms makes it the perfect place to get in front of your target audience. You can employ several methods to publicize your website on social media. This can be using social media ads, updating posts regularly on your business page, and other engagement options provided in each platform. For the best results, make sure your posts and page have a proper CTA (Call To Action) that compels the user to come to your website for additional information.  ## Make The Most Of Email Marketing  ![](/images/posts/inline/d90e4d5d-mail-communication-connection-message-mailing-contacts-phone-global-letters-concept_36325-1579.jpg) Another proven tactic of keeping in touch with your audience is through [email marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/). Whether it is a regular newsletter or a specific offer, email marketing helps you stay in touch with your customers. Keep your users regularly informed on the updates and include useful but concise information to get the reader to your website.  Email marketing is great, but only if you manage to keep it specific and do not make your customers feel overwhelmed. Keep it simple and work on writing emails that the customer can relate to instead of being too pushy. Include proper subject line and information to get a higher chance of opening your email. ## Optimize Your Website For Video Content  ![](/images/posts/inline/648acd46-likes-social-media_53876-90244.jpg) In a world of high-speed internet and smartphone devices, videos are in high demand and often lead to higher engagement than plain content. The reader preference has changed, and with shorter attention spans, it is an excellent idea to include elements of video and graphics to your website. The best strategy is to use video content to generate interest and then make use of blogs, whitepapers, product catalogs, or brochures to make the conversion. For the best results, upload your videos to [popular video channels](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-vs-vimeo/) while embedding them onto the website. This will make sure that your target audience can quickly discover your content on these video platforms while your website, too, has enough relevant video content for generating interest. ## Learn From Your Analytics ![](/images/posts/inline/7c19bd7d-office-desktop-with-laptop-analytics_23-2148174089.jpg) Finally, while you are focused on several ways to generate traffic to your website, it is crucial to track and analyze your results. Using data analysis tools, you can understand your audience demographic, geography, and the various channels generating traffic. This will help you know exactly what works and what you need to amplify. ## Final Take Tracking your analytics can help you invest in free and paid ways to drive traffic, while also identifying whether a new strategy that you may have implemented is working. And in case you are thinking of revamping your website or updating your SEO, now is the best time than ever before.  Explore some of the top [seo tools](https://www.growthmarketingpro.com/best-seo-software-tools/) in the market to help you generate success in generating massive traffic to your website faster and more efficiently. ## How traffic growth works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) If you’re already running the classic SEO and social plays in this post and you want a meaningful next leg of growth, AI search visibility is where the marginal point is in 2026. The competitive field is narrower (each AI answer cites 3-7 sources, not 10); the structural moves are well-defined; and the early-mover advantage is still real because most sites haven’t restructured for it. Concretely: take your top 20 traffic pages, add a TL;DR + FAQ + Article/FAQPage schema to each, and cross-link them. That’s a two-week project that, in my testing, moves AI-engine citation rates from ‘rare’ to ‘frequent.’ Combine with the original Google + social tactics in this post and you’ve got the three-motor growth stack. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for traffic growth 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [how I drive 250,000+ monthly visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/). ## FAQ — traffic growth in the AI search era ### What’s a realistic AI-search traffic share in 2026? It varies wildly by niche. For high-intent how-to and B2B research queries, AI-search referral traffic can be 15-30% of the classic Google share for the same content. For transactional or local queries, it’s still much smaller. Track it in GA4 by referrer (perplexity.ai, openai.com, copilot.microsoft.com). ### Which AI engine should I prioritize first? Google AI Overviews — it has the largest reach and the structural overlay that wins it (TL;DR + FAQ + schema) wins ChatGPT and Perplexity at the same time. Optimize once, get cited in three engines. ### Is paid traffic a substitute for AI search visibility? Different mode. Paid traffic stops the day you stop paying. AI-search visibility compounds the same way classic SEO does — once you’re in the trusted-source pool, you keep getting cited. The two are complementary, not substitutes. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Make The Best Guides To Get More Leads, Traffic, And Sales Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-the-best-guides-to-get-more-leads-traffic-and-sales/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: The best guides have always been the most-cited and most-shared posts on any site — and in 2026 they’re also the most-cited by AI engines. The principles below still apply: depth, structure, original perspective, examples. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The best guides have always been the most-cited and most-shared posts on any site — and in 2026 they’re also the most-cited by AI engines. The principles below still apply: depth, structure, original perspective, examples. The GEO section adds three structural requirements that turn a great guide into one that AI engines pull answers from. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Making content search-friendly and click-worthy involves a plethora of aspects, as anyone who delves in the area of SEO content development knows. It can be a time-consuming process to produce content that outranks your top rivals, from picking the correct keywords to performing audience research to writing catchy titles. Turning every piece into a “ultimate guide” is a trend that is frequently cringe-worthy as a result of the urge to produce more and better material. Here’s how to make an authentic ultimate guide the correct way so that you may increase organic traffic and have readers adore your writing. Ultimate guides abound. You’ve probably read and written plenty. They can boost traffic, links, and authority, but they’re difficult to make. People struggle with the amount of content online. How do you create an [ultimate guide](https://www.mixbloom.com/resources/blog-traffic-conversion) when there are many posts on your topic? This post examines how to create the ultimate [guide](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/03/15/four-strategic-ways-to-drive-leads-and-increase-your-profits/) on anything. What makes a lengthy blog post an ultimate guide? Some characteristics that almost all in-depth guides share: It delves deep into a relatively broad topic.  Several chapters examine the topic from different perspectives. An industry expert or researcher writes it. Aside from that, the contents and format of your ultimate guide are up to you. You’re lucky because I’ll tell you How to Create Ultimate Guides to Drive Leads, Traffic, and Sales. ## Why is it Necessary To Create This Guide? Here are some reasons why you should start making ultimate guides right now. ### Get Backlinks A big, complete resource, like an “ultimate guide,” can be a great place to find links. You can use it to ask for backlinks as part of your strategy to build links, and other sites will start to link to an authoritative resource on their own.  Links will keep coming to your complete guide for years to come. ### Position for Many Keywords The length, depth, and authority of ultimate guides make them great SEO [tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/10-useful-tools-to-find-onlyfans-accounts/). Since they cover so much, they should rank well for many keywords.  Adding links to your other blog posts also helps them rank higher in search engines. ### Develop Your Credibility A complete guide is one of the best ways to market your brand as an industry expert. It is your chance to show how much you know about your topic. ## Reasons You’re Getting Traffic but Not Making Sales It is necessary to know the source of the problem. Essentially, this is how things operate. Therefore, it may not be easy to find a solution until you determine the potential reasons why your visitors are not converting. ### Poor website design Regardless of what you’re selling on your e-commerce website, poor graphic and user experience design can result in no sales. Does your online store look professional and appealing? Is it user-friendly? Would you purchase from this website if you randomly encountered it? These are essential questions to ask yourself when evaluating your e-commerce store objectively. Utilize a highly-rated online store theme from your e-commerce platform to combat poor web design.  You’ll have a sales-optimized e-commerce store without starting from scratch. You can change the theme by adding images and tweaking the layout. ### Zero trust factors Some people who go shopping leave their carts behind because they don’t trust the store. Many popular websites have trust badges, which make people feel better about their safety and legitimacy. ### Secure payment badge Make sure you have steps to protect your customers’ names and financial information. ### Money-back assurance emblem People don’t have to worry about not being able to try a product before paying for it, which they think is a risk of online shopping. ### Accepted modes of payment Since the logos of big financial companies like Visa and Mastercard are so well-known, they immediately make your store look more trustworthy. ### Free shipping & returns Customers always like free shipping and returns, so if you offer this, use a badge to let them know quickly. ### Low-resolution pictures Photos with lots of pixels make a bad first impression. They make a website look sloppy, fake, and like a scam. The customers will leave right away. A website that gets a lot of sales must also have relevant photos. Your pictures must take the place of in-store checks. Each one should help your audience decide to buy. Use original, high-quality photos on your website design and product sites. Don’t make your store slow. TinyIMG can make photos smaller without hurting their quality. Images should show people how good and useful your products are. Show how the product is used and close-ups of it. ### Your Website Has Too Many Unwanted Popups Popups can be a nuisance. However, they won’t be if you use them properly. Still, one error you must avoid simultaneously has too many popups on your page. Alternatively, you might place them on every page of your website. Likewise, this is a terrible idea. If you have substantial traffic but no actual sales or conversions, your popups are likely not functioning properly. It would help if you immediately took action in this regard. However, what should you do? - Display only one popup at a time on your homepage. - If possible, only one or two pages should appear. ## How to choose subjects for your guide Choosing a topic can be a significant obstacle for many aspiring writers. However, try not to dwell on it too much. Here are some quick methods for generating an excellent topic: ### Choose a popular topic. Guides do best when they cover topics that are popular at the time. When something goes viral or starts trending, people get excited about it and want to learn as much as possible about it.  So, your guide should be included as well. And it’s just as important that your piece comes out as soon as breaking news happens. ### Select a familiar subject Even if the first point is extremely obvious, it is necessary to make it. To produce a superb guide, you must have extensive knowledge of your subject.  That does not exclude hiring a freelance writer; nevertheless, you should provide them with a thorough brief and create your guide outline. ### Select a subject with a high search volume It’s unnecessary to send back every guide to improve its Google ranking. But the fact remains that it can bring in a lot more traffic and help you get more customers.  So, you can choose the topic with the keyword people search for the most. But you might also find other themes with more relevant keywords, which could bring more traffic overall. ## How to Format Your Thorough Guide for Optimal Effectiveness Now that you have chosen your subject, you can start putting together your guide. To generate leads, traffic, and conversions, you can develop a guide using some of the following methods: ### Determine what is lacking When reading others’ writing, notice what’s missing. Before writing your how-to, read others’. Then, figure out what details may have been left out or not explained well enough during the process. You might also find it helpful to talk to someone who doesn’t know much about your topic and ask them what questions they have. ### Try to learn as much as you can. Even if you are an expert in your field, you should still read blog posts on the subject before you start writing. It will help you figure out how much content is already out there, what writers have in common, and what you need to say.  You will find that some formats are more popular than others. So, when you write your content, you try to do the same. ### Well-promoted Guides that haven’t been read are useless. You owe it to yourself and the people who will read your guide to promote it well.  You can use Twitter, [Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-resolve-facebook-marketplace-not-working-issue/), Instagram, and LinkedIn to spread the word. Both personal and professional accounts can share with you through social network groups. LinkedIn has groups for different topics.  Groups are on Facebook. It will get your guide’s name out to the groups you choose through your network.  By using the same information in different ways, you can turn your guide into an infographic, PDF, slide show, or video. ## Methods to Convert Prospects Into Customers Now that you know some of the reasons why few of the several thousand people who visit your site buy something, it’s time to do something about it. Here are some things you can do to get the sales and conversions you’ve wanted for a long time. ### Keep your site’s layout simple. It’s hard to keep things simple. Because of this, “colorful” websites are hard to get around. Keeping your website’s design straightforward might improve the user experience. More customers will buy from you if your website is user-friendly. Simple choice. Keeping things straightforward does not need monotony, however. Finding a balance between simple and elegant is essential. ### Write Better Sales Copies Copywriting that induces a desire to purchase is not as difficult as it may appear. Here are a few things that, if implemented, will make your copies shine: - Focus your writing more on yourself. Write like you’re talking to an old friend. - Use robust language in your copies. These are words that motivate someone to act. - You can focus on the product’s benefits rather than its characteristics. - Constantly, less is more. Even if you work hard to improve your writing, you will not be able to write like an expert straight away. It will take time to become proficient at writing copy. So, keep at it. ### Do not direct visitors to your homepage. You may not generate sales with a large amount of traffic since you direct users to your homepage. Or, even worse, a non-functional page. For instance, suppose you wish to promote your goods on Facebook. And your objective is to sell the product to as many individuals as possible. What do you believe would occur if you directed Facebook visitors to your homepage instead of the desired page? Sales fell. Simple. Therefore, optimize your sales funnel by directing users to pages that provide the greatest value and not generic [pages](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) they will not find useful. ## Bottom line The ultimate guide is a great promotional tool. I’ve utilized these tools to boost my site’s traffic, establish myself as an authority in my sector, and enhance my site’s search engine optimization. If you follow my advice, you should be able to achieve your content goals and provide valuable information to your target audience with relative ease. Like this article? Leave a comment below about why you should start making ultimate guides. - [Improve SEO With Google Autocomplete:](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-google-autocomplete-for-seo/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2022 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## How writing pillar guides works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines don’t reward length for its own sake — they reward depth that’s well-organized. A 4,000-word guide with a clean TL;DR, scannable H2 hierarchy, numbered step-by-step blocks, an FAQ, and primary-source citations gets cited dramatically more than a 6,000-word guide that’s structurally messy. Length earned by depth helps; padding hurts. The structural template I now use for every pillar guide on this site: TL;DR → context (why this matters now) → main framework (numbered steps or named tactics) → examples with specifics → FAQ → conclusion with CTA. Each section has a clear purpose; nothing exists just to hit a word count. That structure produces both reader satisfaction and AI-engine citation rates. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for writing pillar guides 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [how I drive 250,000+ monthly visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — writing pillar guides in the AI search era ### How long should a pillar guide be in 2026? 2,500-5,000 words for most topics. Longer if the topic genuinely warrants it. Shorter if you’re padding to hit a target. Length earned by depth helps; length earned by repetition hurts. ### Should every pillar guide have a TL;DR and FAQ? Yes if you want AI-engine citations. Both are low-effort high-leverage adds. The TL;DR takes 2 minutes; the FAQ usually 10-20 minutes per post. ### Are listicles still effective in 2026 or are they outdated? Numbered listicles are great for AI engines because they extract cleanly. The format isn’t outdated; the lazy-listicle execution (rephrased competitor content) is. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Use Surfer SEO? A Complete Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-surfer-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Surfer SEO is a content-optimization tool that scores drafts against top-ranking pages for a target keyword and recommends structural and term improvements. In 2026 it’s added AI-search structural recommendations (TL;DR placement, FAQ guidance). ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Surfer SEO is a content-optimization tool that scores drafts against top-ranking pages for a target keyword and recommends structural and term improvements. In 2026 it’s added AI-search structural recommendations (TL;DR placement, FAQ guidance). The guide below covers using Surfer; this update adds an FAQ on the 2026 GEO fit, without modifying pricing or feature-detail sections. *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* #### Bottom line Creating content by yourself can be difficult. But Surfer SEO makes it easier. The Content Editor feature is one of the best tools to have if you have significant content ambitions ahead of you. It will help you generate keyword ideas and target precise keywords. Generally, Surfer SEO is a cloud-based on-page optimization tool that evaluates and compares your sites to what is presently ranking in the search engine results pages. Rather than assuming what Google prefers to rank, this tool delivers a data-driven analysis of exactly what your website is lacking. It also comes with a keyword research tool. Writing content yourself could be quite an achievement, especially if it’s quite lengthy. But it can be frustrating and sometimes stressful when you run out of ideas. Don’t worry. I’m here to tell you about Surfer SEO and how to use it to your advantage. [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/) is a solution to optimize written material for search engines, such as blog posts and articles. The content of a page is compared to “500+ on-page” signals in Surfer. You may use Surfer to help you improve your on-page SEO. ## What is Surfer SEO? [Surfer SEO](http://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surfer) is a cloud-based on-page optimization tool that analyzes and compares your pages to what is currently ranking in the SERPs. Rather than guessing what Google loves to [rank](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2022/01/21/seo-strategies-for-2022-how-to-maintain-strong-rankings/?sh=2ddf59b47c92), this tool provides a data-driven analysis of exactly what’s lacking from your website. It also includes a keyword research tool. ## Different Features ![](/images/posts/inline/1a24f46d-how-surfer-seo-works.png) To help you understand what each section does, here is an overview of the features in [Surfer SEO](http://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surfer). These features will also be used later in the article to help you write your content. ### Content Editor Content Editor turns writing into a game. Boost your content scores and make all phrases green to increase your chances of ranking high. It’s simple and intuitive. This section can give benchmarks, inform the writer of the deadline, and specify the material’s tone, target audience, and aim. ### Content Planner [Surfer SEO](http://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surfer) uses numerous data layers to find your main keyword’s most relevant content ideas. The broader the term, the more suggestions for articles and landing sites you will receive.  We’re talking about dozens, if not hundreds, of different related topics here. All your results will appear in seconds, if not a few minutes. ### SEPR Analyzer The SERP Analyzer detects similar trends across various top websites, allowing you to save time while boosting your content. Based on 50 pages and 500+ criteria, you may acquire good information on what is currently working for your specific term. ## How To Write With Surfer SEO ![](/images/posts/inline/6fed28e5-writing-article-with-surfer-seo.png) Now that you have a good understanding of how Surfer SEO works, you’re ready to start using the platform. You can follow these steps assuming you are already logged into your account. If you don’t have an account, you can start a 7-day trial for a low price. ### 1\. Create A Query In The Content Editor Once you’re logged in, you will see the SERP analyzer dashboard, which is a helpful feature, but you won’t be needing it for now.  At the top of the dashboard, you will see a row of the other features, and among them is the content editor. The content editor is what you want to click on. You will be working with a keyword or key phrase in the content editor. Below the search bar will be a series of other options to specify where to run your content. You can also choose between mobile or desktop compatibility for your keywords. There will also be a switch labeled “NLP,” which stands for Natural Language Processing. This feature will make sure Google API data will augment your suggestion results.  Once you’re settled with your settings, click the button to the right of the search bar labeled “Create a query,” after a few seconds, you’ll get a list of pages that cover the same topic as the keywords you entered.  Click on the top result to use that page as a reference to build your content. Doing so will take you to a different page, the writing panel. You will use this panel later. ### 2\. Set Your Customization You always want to start with customizing before writing. To the right of your screen will be a panel, and at the top-left of that panel will be a cog or gear icon labeled “Customization.” Click that to start customizing. #### Choose Your Competitors At the very top of the next window will be “Pages to include.” You will have to choose all sites that offer the best content similar to yours to help you write. It would be best to tick on the sites with the most domain traffic and word count.  Feel free to open a link to these sites to ensure that they are authoritative sites that align with your preferences. You might want only to use article pages and not product reviews and so forth. Click on “Save Changes” and move on to the next feature below. #### Content Structure After saving your changes, the content [structure](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/) will give you the recommended word count, which is the most important part of this section. You don’t have to worry about headings or bold words because the user’s experience is the most important factor when writing an article. #### Organize The Keywords The next section will be your terms or keywords to use in your article to get more traffic. This section is divided into 4 sections: - Primary - Secondary - Prominent - Other terms Click on each word to include or exclude in your article. The words and phrases that are grayed out will be excluded. Under the secondary keywords will be a few suggestions and a button to manually add terms below it.  The other terms section is where you can get granular with your keywords. Also, the lower you scan the terms in this section, the more unnecessary they get. So feel free to exclude them. This process could be time-consuming. #### Add Topics And Questions To Cover The following part can be beneficial to you or a copywriter. There will be a few themes and questions related to your topic. By clicking on “add,” you can include your own or make more suggestions. These could also be used as headings. #### Notes You can input additional notes in this section for your copywriter or yourself. And after that, you can finalize your customization. ### 3\. Use The Writing Panel ![](/images/posts/inline/6baa0c5e-surfer-seo-content.png) Here is where you will be writing or copy-pasting your article. On the left side of your screen will be your text box and typographical tools, which include: - Heading style - Bold - Italicize - Underline  - Link - Number list - Bullet lest To the right is your list of keywords and keyphrases. Once you have pasted your article in the text box, Surfer [SEO](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinessdevelopmentcouncil/2022/01/25/three-tips-for-putting-strategy-behind-your-seo/?sh=42aeea79593b) will detect if these keywords are used in the text you wrote or pasted in the text box and highlight them green. The keywords will include the optimal number of times you can use them. [Surfer SEO](http://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surfer) will highlight the keywords back to red if you go over the acceptable amount. To avoid this, you can reduce the number of times it was used in your article or paraphrase it. ## To Wrap Up! To ensure that you get the most traffic, you need to be meticulous with your articles. That is why [Surfer SEO](http://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surfer) is a huge help for this line of work. Yes, it can be a bit tedious when working on the keywords. But in the end, it’s all worth it. If you want to know about other tools and methods used for writing SEO content, check out my other articles. - [DIY SEO – How to Do It Yourself](https://flux.la/diy-seo-how-to-do-it-yourself/) - [10 Secret SEO Tricks in 2020](https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks/) - [How To Write A Blog Post For SEO: Best 10 Tips You Should Know](https://flux.la/how-to-write-a-blog-post-for-seo/) Did this article help? Tell me in the comments below what other reviews and guides would you like to see on the blog. ## Surfer SEO in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how Surfer SEO fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Does Surfer SEO help with AI Overview optimization in 2026? Yes, marginally — Surfer added structural guidance (TL;DR, FAQ recommendations) that aligns with GEO best practices. The on-page term-coverage scoring also correlates with AI-engine citation rates. ### Is Surfer SEO worth the cost vs free alternatives? For content teams producing meaningful volume (4+ optimized posts per month), yes. For occasional optimization, manual research using competitor analysis is workable. ### Surfer or Clearscope for AI search work? Roughly comparable — both score against top-ranking pages and recommend structural improvements. Pick based on UI preference and existing workflow fit. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Improve SEO With Google Autocomplete: [A Quick Guide] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-google-autocomplete-for-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Google Autocomplete is still a fast, free keyword-research signal in 2026 — and it’s now part of a richer ecosystem that includes ChatGPT autosuggest, Perplexity related-questions, and Google AI Overview’s ‘People Also Ask’ panel. The classic Autocomplete tactics in this post still work; the GEO section adds the parallel AI-engine sources. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Google Autocomplete is still a fast, free keyword-research signal in 2026 — and it’s now part of a richer ecosystem that includes ChatGPT autosuggest, Perplexity related-questions, and Google AI Overview’s ‘People Also Ask’ panel. The classic Autocomplete tactics in this post still work; the GEO section adds the parallel AI-engine sources. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Google Autocomplete predicts and suggests search terms. It saves you time by finishing the search query you had in mind. Since user experiences may influence search rankings, developing a user-friendly website should be a top concern. Do you know how you get a list of keyword predictions when you put a term into the search box? That’s Google Autocomplete at work, and its goal is to save you time typing. And today, I’m here to tell you all you need to know about autocomplete to step up your SEO game. Because Google Autocomplete is frequently disregarded by digital marketers, taking the effort to learn about it might provide you a competitive advantage. So let us try to narrow it down into simple terms. ## What’s Google Autocomplete? Google Autocomplete is a feature of Google Search that predicts and suggests search terms. As an example, if you write “who is the” into the Google search box, you’ll get results like: 1. Who is the real owner of Google 2. Who is the richest person in the world 3. Who is the oldest person in the world Of course, the suggestions would also depend on your past related searches and other content. As you type, the predictions will alter to match your input until you get the search word you desire. Instead of spelling it all out, you can click on that choice. The goal of Google Autocomplete is to save you time by finishing the search query you had in mind. ## Where are the Google Autocomplete keywords from? [Google search](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johanmoreno/2021/12/31/google-search-trends-show-descending-interest-for-peloton-growing-interest-for-tonal-hydrow-ergatta/) analyzes actual search results and displays the most common and trending ones that are relevant to the characters you input. Those that are connected to your location and past searches are also factors. Additionally, Google’s public liaison, Danny Sullivan, made a blog that expands on Google Autocomplete. If you want to read more about it, you can check it out [here](https://blog.google/products/search/how-google-autocomplete-works-search/).  ### Do search suggestions differ based on country? The country you’re in also affects Google Autocomplete predictions. Google will “follow” you if you move places, and your autocomplete selections will update appropriately. ### What about other languages? These recommendations vary depending on the language(s) you choose to submit Google queries. If you change your default language to English, you will see English results. But if you add other languages that you are familiar with, your search suggestions will also be in those languages. ### Does autocomplete change based on search history? Google analyzes your search history when making predictions while logged into your Google account. Your previous searches will serve as references for autocomplete recommendations for newer searches, especially if you’ve previously looked for material related to your query. Know that if you see a prediction with a “Remove” option next to it (it appears as an “X” on the far right), it’s based on your search history. Google detects that you looked for something related to your query, but it might be a one-time search. ### Google’s Autocomplete Guidelines Google has procedures to prohibit predictions that violate Google Search’s overall standards. The autocomplete policies include: 1. Gore and violence 2. Medical and scientific terminology is acceptable, but sexually explicit, vulgar, or profane terms are not 3. Anything to do with hate speech or acceptance of hateful activities is prohibited 4. Identifiable people’s sensitive information or words 5. Dangerous predictions or content that might cause major harm to humans or animals You can read all about how Google describes and discusses Autocomplete on the help page [here](https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/7368877?hl=en#:~:text=Autocomplete%20is%20a%20feature%20within,they%20already%20intended%20to%20do.). ## How is Google Autocomplete beneficial for SEO? Before you begin evaluating Google Autocomplete predictions for [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/), you must first complete the following three steps: 1\. To ensure that your search history does not impact the predictions you receive, log out of Google or utilize incognito mode. 2\. You should use a VPN if you are based in a different location than your target audience. If you’re now in Thailand but want to target people in the US, for example, use a VPN to make it look like you’re in the US. 3\. Adjust your options to match the language preferences of the individuals in your target audience. These settings will allow you to view similar suggestions to those displayed to your target audience. Now that everything is set, here are various methods to use Google Autocomplete for SEO. You can go through these steps in succession to see which one works for you. ### 1\. Type the Keyword, then Analyze it  Examine the results for a word relating to your specialty. This research is an excellent method for locating valuable long-tail keywords. Answer The Public is another free software that does this. Then, using an SEO tool such as Ubersuggest, Ahrefs, or Moz Pro, assess those keywords and determine which ones are worth pursuing. ### 2\. Look Into the Alphabet What if none of your predictions turn out to be accurate? Enter your term, then click on each letter of the alphabet to see what appears.  Take the term “financial management” as a keyword, and then add the letter “a” after your query in the search field. By putting “financial management a” into your search box, you may use the ideas to help you produce content. ### 3\. Allow Google to Fill the Blanks Aside from using the alphabet, you may increase your search by including the underscore character (\_) in your keyword or key phrase.  Suppose your query is about survival tips. You could type “survival \_ tip” in the search bar, and Google will suggest different things related to these words, taking into account your past searches and other related content. ### 4\. Try Both Singular and Plural Form of the Keyword Google Autocomplete gives you different results when you type the same keyword in their singular and plural forms. You’ll note that the results differ, so test both variations of the same term. ## Different Ways To Utilize Google Autocomplete Google Autocomplete is a basic feature with a lot of potential. It can help you supercharge your digital [marketing efforts](https://alejandrorioja.com/visual-content-for-your-marketing-campaigns/), from keyword research to reputation management. In addition to locating popular keywords, Google’s SEO suggestions may be valuable in several other areas. ### Showing The Most Popular Categories  For example, suppose you type “women’s shoes” into Google. In that case, it will return results for “women’s shoes on sale” and “women shoes size 12,” indicating that people frequently search for shoes on sale and by size. ### Identify Well-known Brands A search for common brands reveals which people are looking for the most, such as seller names, brands, suppliers, and so on. You may learn which one your target demographic is likely to buy this way. ### Learn What to Put in FAQs Typing your inquiry into Google may yield a list of frequently asked questions. Answering those commonly asked questions might help your e-commerce business gain more visitors. ### Discover keywords to use for local SEO Google Autocomplete can also offer [local](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2022/02/24/why-your-google-local-reviews-arent-showing-up/) SEO queries that you might not have thought about and lists numerous significant landmarks (including the airport). You’ll want to see whether your store is close to any popular destinations, such as a museum or shopping mall.  It’s easy to think you know what people will search for, but it’s worth taking a few seconds to explore what Google Autocomplete has to offer. ### Build a User-Friendly E-commerce Site Ecommerce is big business; over 2 billion people purchase online each year, according to Oberlo. Despite the enormous number of online shoppers, attracting them to your website is a difficult task. Using autocomplete to find essential terms to target is one way to improve your e-commerce business and make it more user-friendly. ### Manage your Online Reputation You can also use this tool to search for branded phrases like company, executive, or product names if an unpleasant search phrase surfaces in the predictions using your brand keywords.  Google Autocomplete might pose major harm to your public image. You have two alternatives when it comes to what you should do in this case: #### Solve the Problem If the unflattering prognosis is accurate, correct the problem. The fix won’t make the autocomplete problem go away right away, but if the problem is fixed, people will eventually forget about it and cease looking for it.  As the amount of searches for that phrase decreases, you will eventually remove it from the prediction list. #### Improve Your Image If the prediction is about a real event, you may help them forget about it sooner by offering them something good to think about. For example, you may highlight loyal customers on your website, hold a giveaway, or host an event. Even actively connecting with clients on various social media channels may help you establish a favorable brand image. ## Bottom line Using Google Autocomplete to help you with your SEO query starts with the search bar. You can start by adding the alphabet letters one at a time to help you gain more content related to your query. If you want more varied results, you can add an underscore character between your keyword and let Google fill in the blanks or use singular and plural forms of your keyword. Did you find this helpful? Make sure to leave a like and comment. Feel free to check out other articles I made related to SEO. - [How To Write A Blog Post For SEO: Best 10 Tips You Should Know](https://flux.la/how-to-write-a-blog-post-for-seo/) - [How to SEO Like A Pro](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [How To Use Surfer SEO? A Complete Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-surfer-seo/) ## How Google Autocomplete and AI search works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The four sources I check in 2026 for any new content idea: Google Autocomplete, Google AI Overview’s ‘People Also Ask,’ Perplexity’s related-questions sidebar, and ChatGPT’s suggested follow-up prompts. Each surfaces a different slice of user intent, and the overlap is smaller than you’d expect — querying all four catches questions that any single source would miss. Tactical workflow: take a head term, run it through all four engines, log every suggested completion or related question, then cluster them. The clusters become H2 sections in the resulting post; the literal questions become FAQ entries. That single workflow produces both Google-ranking-friendly H2 structure and AI-engine-friendly FAQ structure in one pass. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for Google Autocomplete and AI search 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [keyword clustering](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-keyword-clustering/). ## FAQ — Google Autocomplete and AI search in the AI search era ### Is Google Autocomplete still useful with AI Overviews on top? Yes — Autocomplete and AI Overview’s question panel surface different things. Autocomplete is broader query intent; the question panel is deeper sub-question intent. Use both. ### How do I scrape AI engine autosuggest at scale? Most engines don’t expose autosuggest via API in 2026. Manual sampling is still the most reliable workflow; some niche tools (Athena, Profound) are starting to automate Perplexity and ChatGPT prompt mining. ### Are ‘People Also Ask’ boxes still showing up in 2026? Yes, often alongside or below the AI Overview block. They’re still a great source for FAQ content. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## The Importance Of Featured Snippets For Your Website SEO Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/importance-of-featured-snippets/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Featured snippets — Google’s ‘position zero’ answer boxes — were a major SEO target through 2023. In 2026 they’ve largely been absorbed by AI Overviews on informational queries, though they still appear for some query types. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Featured snippets — Google’s ‘position zero’ answer boxes — were a major SEO target through 2023. In 2026 they’ve largely been absorbed by AI Overviews on informational queries, though they still appear for some query types. The post below covers featured-snippet optimization; the GEO section explains how the same structural moves now win AI Overview citations. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Featured snippets are important because they show an additional search engine results page ([SERP](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-serp/)) feature that can be secured. They provide great opportunities to gain more clicks to a page, with about an 8% increase! In addition, they offer your website more visibility as they are located at the topmost page of the search results and boost brand awareness.  These come in boxes that appear at the top of the search results page and give information to accurately and succinctly answer queries while citing a website. They are simply designed to catch the search results and not necessarily the webpage. For the past years, the world of search engine optimization has been troubled by the same problem of achieving the search result’s number one position. Getting the topmost position in crucial and competitive searches is my and other SEO professionals’ obsession. However, the game of [SEO](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/06/14/10-key-benefits-of-seo-for-your-business/?sh=3c4309833fd0) has changed a lot in the past few years. So, having my website shine among the crowd is an increasingly tough proposition.  This is because new competitors rise all time, and they tend to create content that can draw the user’s eye toward them and away from mine. “Rank 0” or “Position 0” is Google SERP’s highest organic ranking result. It determines the placement of my site above all the rest of the organic search results. Keep reading to know the best ways to attract attention to reach “Rank 0” or take over the SERPs through featured snippets! ## Importance of Featured Snippets [Featured snippets](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2020/04/21/mastering-the-featured-snippet-to-improve-your-seo-in-2020/?sh=e0cbce1600be) can give many benefits. If you can utilize them properly, you can expect increased traffic, more authority, and improved SEO. But, here’s more! ### 1\. Featured snippets can bring in more clicks. They allow gaining more clicks from the organic search results. Many SEO experts refer to featured snippet boxes as “Position 0” because it is visible above the traditional number 1 spot. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/b3Y0PVzSvF95jxgQpOMQQDyKhPXfMqIZGE5jHvHWyo8_a_tjXOw2L4Mk6EcGN5Lvl-BLT_M4o77q5S-5ulVHYpzECsavoZvUUjDDlox0yMk7CcDoLdU13XMjKATnQFWKN1E2aK_w) Image source: [https://backlinko.com/hub/seo/featured-snippets](https://backlinko.com/hub/seo/featured-snippets) Also, according to Search Engine Land, a featured snippet can get about [8% of all the clicks](https://searchengineland.com/another-featured-snippet-study-shows-steal-significant-traffic-first-organic-result-275967). So, if you can get your content in the featured snippet, it can give your organic click-through rate a great boost. ### 2\. Featured snippets increase the “no-click searches” number. “No-click searches” means that Google users do not have to click on the search results because the featured snippet already has the answer they are looking for. So, this kind of search result can satisfy the user without clicking on any links on the search results. In addition, when users click your link for product information, there’s a high chance that they will make a purchase. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BxF8uCGcmGSdWRWonomlkfohRYUnf3Pq4FHqPaqX-mPEU5eL0iyr2QoLBKv6cVKD-iZU2MT_B-Wyj4m3g4r6I1R9H8LKZoqmpnv_HDO0dmi06r2t5FTxIfiIDyjnf1pMkDYvxFwv) Image source: [https://backlinko.com/hub/seo/featured-snippets](https://backlinko.com/hub/seo/featured-snippets) ### 3\. Indicates your content is useful, arranged well, and useful Featured snippets help in material evaluation. So, if Google picks your website to be a part of snippets, it’s a good indicator that readers find your content valuable. ## Types of Featured Snippets The four types of featured snippets are lists, paragraphs, videos, and tables. Each is valuable for increasing search volume for your website. - 1\. Lists ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HnnveUEWtdUh0G0cD55nfqni5LsbG-BF3r5TR2FB4AtmTl4j2j3VlOcFlDAjjeA9NqgqcqeGgSDiRrb7_edBeyWAL2EhoW2bBQiMDZDOH-Ik2a9jjJxGlAHjmwo9KF6rxuF2bldb) Image source: [https://postcron.com/en/blog/what-are-featured-snippets-why-are-they-important/](https://postcron.com/en/blog/what-are-featured-snippets-why-are-they-important/) Bulleted lists are the second most common type of featured snippets. They are most easily accessible for articles showing the steps of a process, identifying different products, and ranking things.  Also, snippets in this form can be in order or not. The above photo is an example of a list snippet with the step-by-step methods of doing a hammock. - 2\. Paragraphs ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/iPuq6BbyRuhJAZuSse7NAjwI7wuDbTEmAqYOUZ6M2UZcD85bLTjKhIAlHVYfQDGYY7QxFUOL4C_HRUlm87M7wDnnXImT0xpsvshKlW0vuTq25C_bru9Qy1cJ3ctk1nx5GbvX-r4c) Image source: [https://postcron.com/en/blog/what-are-featured-snippets-why-are-they-important/](https://postcron.com/en/blog/what-are-featured-snippets-why-are-they-important/) Snippets in paragraph form are the most common type, and they take up around 75% of the total snippet types. This provides users with a practical definition or a piece of brief information about a topic. You can enter specific terms and keywords into the search to see examples of this kind, such as: 1. How to do 2. Who is 3. What is 4. How to get 5. How is 6. Why is - 3\. Videos ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/3kkSTVsW336jO4gVd3AtYjnvgh-Rz17_Reo7EQXNuamnYJ3ZY-gMIgrPzQzGKPprxTYR45vxQIPX4T0bm86fQtsEvq7ZCMI-eC44Bv8o9zla20Wgk2l7jc6AJ2M2xnOYfq85ww9t) Image source: [https://www.briggsby.com/video-featured-snippets-suggested-clips](https://www.briggsby.com/video-featured-snippets-suggested-clips) Video-featured snippets might be something you would want to try and rank for since YouTube is one of the world’s biggest search engines. If the video provides the most accurate answer for a user’s search, it will show the video in the featured snippet. They can also be used for “how-to” searches. - 4\. Tables ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LXoae1WGD62sfo5f5vDNk7PPxOwFhp1Pkx6VPSRL8peg9XfFSg_cWGsz9AQxy0fs5g_uhnkp3cepa3kTActsfbjwwXtKV64LpkzVaItgzYnN86pc58O-IYHFnDYOBwrb9zrpzC6r) Image source: [https://postcron.com/en/blog/what-are-featured-snippets-why-are-they-important/](https://postcron.com/en/blog/what-are-featured-snippets-why-are-they-important/) Snippets featuring tables are ideal for organization, visualizations, and comparisons.  They make them easier to read and comprehend. That is why tables cover a large percentage of featured snippets on Google. Featured snippets can attract more website clicks than ranking number 1 on Google because of how much space it takes and its positioning on the page. So, you might be thinking, how does anyone acquire a featured snippet.  The downside is there is no surefire way to earn it. However, a few tips can help increase your chances of getting one and even help improve your rank along the process. ## Incorporate Quality Videos and Photos Commonly, beginners forget about utilizing featured clips to their advantage because it is the least common type among the featured snippets. Make sure that you do not commit this mistake! Users love learning visually and all the aesthetics. Also, more people are likely to watch at least 75% of the video, and several executives think that users tend to become more engaged if they combine the video with text. The ideal way to execute this is to provide a voice transcript for your videos. This can help Google recognize the text and choose it as the featured snippet!  ## Optimize Keywords ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Vkp9gXXDnTey_TbS8I_ahE1-q1trh3SPhX1swziV6mBSmJ-F2WXCk8bP0DV1i2oNMkUsTQBUaq_2v08i7SOEbS_CqaJBYFGigiELxntH6ljH_iy8Kmy9tojRYd64dC6n7FknWwHt) Image source: [https://www.link-assistant.com/news/how-to-get-a-featured-snippet.html](https://www.link-assistant.com/news/how-to-get-a-featured-snippet.html) This is an important method because it can increase your chance to land a featured snippet and help with your overall SEO. Any business should focus on [keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/se-ranking-keyword-rank-tracker-review/) because it helps generate an audience through online advertisements. In addition, it’s helpful for third-party site services that inform you how popular specific keywords are and if there are featured snippets tied to them. This way, you will see which keywords your [competitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/competitor-research-semrush/) are currently using, and you can use it to your advantage that is not yet linked to any featured snippets.  Lastly, if you are already ranking high for any certain keyword, it’s helpful to find out if Google brings featured snippets for the particular keywords.  If Google does, try ranking for it by researching the most frequently asked questions about a topic and then format your content accordingly to add the tags related to those questions. ## Be Knowledgeable of Potential Answers This is not as rigorous as it seems. You can use Google for assistance.  The first is to think of questions related to your market and content and then research it on Google. Chances are there is already a featured snippet for that. This is the initial step to see who your competitors earn their snippets, and it can potentially let you take it from them. You can also search for what people like to ask. This is commonly located a few positions underneath the snippet.  It may consist of many other related questions with a drop-down feature. Clicking on the drop-down feature can let you view more snippets of how competitors respond to the questions the public asks. ## Make It Brief You may notice that featured snippets display small amounts of information. It’s vital to keep the user’s attention and get them to click your website.  The good thing is this applies well to [Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/). That means you have to keep the section short to be featured and let Google recognize it. To apply this, make sure you organize your posts, blogs, and articles with different headers. Section off your steps, paragraphs, and lists instead of letting them all run together. Another thing is to try fitting all the essential information in one paragraph, make it less than 50 words, and prepare it for Google to snip in a single piece. Lastly, answering questions straight to the point is vital. Although you think providing long explanations will make you seem more knowledgeable about the topic, short answers keep the attention. ## Use Featured Snippets to Your Advantage Featured snippets are the best way to increase your organic traffic and improve your search engine rankings. They’re also great for user experience because they provide users with exactly what they need without having to click through on another page or navigate away from their current page. Learning new skills and a few tricks can help build your reach and make your business grow. However, keep in mind that this takes time.  It needs consistency to make and execute your plans of increasing your exposure. I hope this blog was able to help you with our information so you can create high-quality content and achieve success in your business in no time! In the comment section below, share your featured snippet story and let us know how it impacted your business! Found this article informative? Know more about SEO and digital marketing by reading these useful articles below: - [Google Voice SEO Tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/) - [Concise and Comprehensive Google Ads Tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/) - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## How featured snippets works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The structural pattern that won featured snippets — a clean direct answer in the first paragraph after an H2 that matches the query — is the same pattern that wins AI Overview citations. If you optimized for featured snippets in 2023, you’re 80% of the way to GEO-ready in 2026. The remaining 20%: extending the answer block into a TL;DR at the top of the post, adding an FAQ at the bottom. Where featured snippets and AI Overviews diverge: featured snippets quote a single page; AI Overviews synthesize from multiple sources and cite all of them. So the goal shifts from ‘be the one source quoted’ to ‘be one of the 3-7 sources cited.’ Lower bar to clear, smaller per-citation traffic share, but more cumulative citation opportunities. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for featured snippets 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — featured snippets in the AI search era ### Are featured snippets still a thing in 2026? Yes for some query types (definitions, time/date, conversions, local). For informational and how-to queries, AI Overviews have largely replaced them. ### Should I still optimize for featured snippets specifically? The optimization is functionally the same as AI Overview optimization (clean direct answer after a question-style H2). Optimize once, win both surfaces. ### Do featured snippets and AI Overviews show on the same SERP? Sometimes — for queries where the AI Overview is suppressed or limited, a featured snippet may still appear. They’re not mutually exclusive. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How to Get 250,000+ Visits (My Best Growth Hacks) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: The growth-hack stack that took alejandrorioja. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The growth-hack stack that took alejandrorioja.com to 250,000+ monthly visits still works in 2026 — long-form content, content layering, smart repurposing — but the distribution surface has shifted. AI engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) now route a meaningful share of high-intent traffic that used to come exclusively through classic Google. This refresh adds the GEO playbook for getting cited inside those answers. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Growth is a key element for your business. The thing is, it’s not very easily achieved, but absolutely possible and this article talks about just that! The firs thing you need to focus on the quality traffic so it converts. It’s not only about the numbers, it’s about the correct numbers. There are many free tools that can help you measure the analytics. Pay attention to things like targeting long-tail keywords, posting the best content ever written on the target keywords, improving your CTR, doing content layering, repurposing your content for other social media profiles, working on lowering the bounce rate and increasing the time-on-site, offering your site in other languages, practicing guest blogging, allowing other people to guest post on your site. Other things you can do are steal the best content from the competitors in your industry, steal your competitor’s traffic sources, refresh and update your content on a regular basis, build backlinks and dominate organic search, make sure your visitors don’t have technical difficulties, offer different types of content, etc.  When it comes to social media strategies, you need to take other steps like automating your social media posts. In the article you can read Linkedin, Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook hacks to increase traffic. Don’t leave out Reddit/Steemit. If you have a younger audience, Tik-tok and Snapchat are also very relevant. A tool that will help you with promoting social shares is QuuuPromote. Continue reading to discover relevant techniques for all of these points.  My first 3 years blogging were awful. This was due to the fact that: - I blogged inconsistently.  - My articles were not amazing. - My traffic was lackluster. - No one knew me or my site.  - And my sales and AdSense revenue were close to 0.  ![](/images/posts/inline/2d74e3d4-how-my-traffic-has-evolved-over-time-1024x214.png) But now on my 7th year blogging, everything has changed.  - I now own [9 blogs](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) that I update almost daily.  - My articles rank on the first few spots for highly trafficked keywords. - My traffic on [alejandrorioja.com](https://alejandrorioja.com) alone is close to ~250,000 per month.  - My tactics and [my story](https://www.inc.com/john-white/how-this-ucla-grad-plans-to-become-the-president-of-bolivia.html) have been covered by Forbes, Mashable, Inc, and 100+ other blogs and news sites. - And my ad revenue is picking up fast. > Today, I’ll share with you my **best tips to increase your traffic** so that you too can get thousands of readers and leads per month.  I’ll also share the system I have to blog effortlessly every day. (hint: I will show you where to hire your next writer and Growth Project Manager) This is a big post, I recommend you bookmark it. Take your time reading it, and work through the several tactics over several days and weeks (and possibly quarters).  *Related: Are you an ecommerce business? Read* [*how I made $1M+ in sales*](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) *with* [*Flux Chargers*](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/) *so you can do it too.*  Let’s get to it ? I divided this guide into 3 main blocks: 1. SEO and Content Marketing (released now!) 2. Social Media Marketing (released now!) 3. SEM and Paid Marketing (I’ll release it if this post gets 50,000 reads or 1000 shares)  Btw, I listed all the tactics by ease of implementation and highest payout, i.e. the best tactics that you should do first are listed at the top of each block.  **If you consider yourself an experienced marketer and want to find more advanced techniques lookout for the fire emoji ?on the tactics.**  Let’s first cover… ## Why growth is key for your business  ![](/images/posts/inline/29733fd7-growth-spur-1024x683.jpg) With so many things to focus on when running a business (improving your product, doing customer support, hiring) sometimes increasing website traffic [via SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) or SEM might not be top of mind for you.  I’d like to argue that Growth should be very top of mind because it allows you to see the real demand for your product, test out ideas quickly, get more engaged users and [increase your business revenue](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/).  While there are many areas of growth, in this guide I’ll mostly focus on **getting more traffic**.  However, not all traffic is made equal… ## You should focus on more QUALITY traffic Yes, getting more traffic volume is useful but if that traffic isn’t converting (signing up for your product, purchasing your service, clicking on your affiliate links), it won’t do you much good.  Even worse, if you buy traffic bots you are just doing yourself a disservice.  Aside from [having a lower Alexa rank](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/), the true benefit of having **higher quality traffic** is getting more people that can help you test different experiments that will eventually lead you to more sign ups and conversions.  Several A/B tests are made possible with high quality traffic: - content/layout tests (button colors, shapes, page layout, no sidebar) - Value proposition (which features to talk about first, what gets people excited) - Pricing (i.e. charge $99/mo or go for freemium) Now that we are clear that we want the cleanest traffic for our data dashboards, let’s explore how to increase those Google Analytics numbers: Here’s a great video that shares a few of the tactics I discussed (keep reading to find many more) You can’t improve what you can’t measure, so the first step is set up some if not all of the following tools so that you can have a baseline of your stats:  ## Free tools you should set up to measure your analytics - (Must have) [Google Analytics](https://analytics.google.com/analytics/web/) to measure your site stats - (Must have) [Google Search Console](https://search.google.com/search-console/about) to see your organic performance - (optional) [Google Data Studio](https://datastudio.google.com/overview) or [Big Query](https://cloud.google.com/bigquery/) to run data analysis or create better dashboards - (optional) [Hotjar](https://www.hotjar.com/) to see how people are interacting with your site - (optional) [Mixpanel](https://mixpanel.com/) to better visualize your funnels (there’s a free trial)  - (optional) [Buffer](https://buffer.com/) to measure how your socials are doing - (optional) [Optimizely](https://www.optimizely.com/) to A/B test your site Alright, now that you are all set up, let’s start with my favorite channel to get more website traffic.. ![](/images/posts/inline/aa2f0c8b-increase-traffic-with-seo-1024x576.png) ## A) How to use SEO to drive free traffic SEO (or [Search Engine Optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)) is one of my favorite ways to **increase site traffic**.  I like it a lot because anyone can get started on it by simply writing. It doesn’t require any significant monetary investments like Google Ads other than your time, so a small blogger can start getting traffic even with a $0 budget.  > The best part about SEO is that, unlike SEM, it is sustainable and much more of a long-term play.  With SEM (Search Engine Marketing) the moment you stop paying for ads, your traffic goes to 0.  With SEO, you can reliably drive traffic every single month.  It’s an effort that pays for much longer (assuming you keep your articles updated),  Another great thing about SEO is that **your efforts compound over time.**  Writing a few articles help you increase your domain authority and that in turn brings you more traffic.  Also, a blog post you wrote last month can be driving 1000 visits, and this month’s blog post can drive another 500, helping you increase your monthly visitors very quickly.  Ok, so now that I made a case for SEO….  Let’s explore the actual tactics to rank and get more traffic.  You can also download my free Ebook on How to Get 250,000+ Visits by signing up here! ## Target long tail keywords Long tail keywords are keywords with decent traffic volume (say 1000+) and relatively low difficulty (KD <20). ([what is keyword difficulty?](https://ahrefs.com/blog/keyword-difficulty/)) ![](/images/posts/inline/7e823094-long-tail-keyword-chart.png) If you are just getting started, you should target long tail keywords because your blog won’t have the necessary authority to compete with the established players.  Also notice how the conversion rate is much higher for long-tail searches. Now, let’s say you just started an e-commerce site selling merch, specifically T-shirts. Instead of trying to rank for “T-shirts” which is a hard keyword.. ![](/images/posts/inline/2e055eea-kd-t-shirts-1024x481.png) …you can aim for “vintage T-shirts” which has a 12,000 search volume and a difficulty of 7. (Difficulty goes from 0-100). ![](/images/posts/inline/0ab7434d-kd-vintage-t-shirts-1024x480.png) You’ll be much more likely to rank and might even get better conversions. Wondering where I got the keyword difficulty? Don’t worry, later in this post I’ll show you [how to do great keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) for your business and find all the keyword metrics you need.    ?You can find long tail keywords using: - [Long Tail Pro](https://longtailpro.com/) - Or any [SEO tool I covered here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) *? Related: Curious about what the highest paying keywords in the world are? Check* [*this list*](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/)*.*  ## 2\. Post the best content ever written on your target keyword(s) I’m not talking about good, neither great, but **THE BEST CONTENT** ever written for any particular keyword you intend to rank.  While it’s easier to push 500-1000 words of content, trust me going above and beyond with 2000-3000 word guides will really pay off.  A study done by SerpIQ confirms this ![](/images/posts/inline/7b9771f7-seo-content-length-2020.jpeg) That’s why you won’t find any article on my site that isn’t detailed and thorough.  When you came to this article, you wanted to learn exactly **how to grow your traffic**. I plan to give you that and more. This 7500+ word guide is proof of that.  ? To write the best content ever written on any keyword: 1. Google search your target keyword 2. Read the top 5-10 articles that appear 3. Take note of the style of sites that appear on the first page (are they listicles, infographics, long articles or short sales pages?) 4. Summarize and transcribe the best tips of each into a new blog post on your site and make sure you go in-depth (make sure you copy the style of post from step #3) 5. Make the article better and longer by adding new information, including media such as images and links to Youtube videos (note that you don’t necessarily need to produce the YT videos yourself, you can link to others!)  Keep in mind that you should also have a healthy keyword density. If you want to learn more about ideal keyword density check out [WDF\*IDF](https://www.textbroker.com/wdfidf). #### How to publish 50+ articles per month, instead of 1-2 ?If you want to scale this process, [hire writers on Freeeup](https://freeeup.com/?a=f0bb0490-6114-41f3-9a93-baedc7e73772) and follow the guide my friend Nick Jordan wrote on turning [any writer into an SEO writer effortlessly](https://contentdistribution.com/seo-content-writer/).  Summarizing Nick’s article: He hires writers and instead of giving each writer specific guidelines for each article, he created a very straightforward checklist that ensures the best success. Here’s his formula for articles: He requests each writer to get at least: - 3 sets of bullets - 3 lists - 2 tables - 8+ h2s - 5+ internal links - 5+ external links This seems to be working really well. If you want to outsource your content to Nick’s content company, [let me know](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) and I’ll get you a friend’s discount. Note he works mostly with B2B companies.   ## 3\. Improve your CTR (Click Through Rate) As you can see here, my site gets over 85% of its traffic from Search Engines.  ![](/images/posts/inline/352d2861-top-channels.png) And a lot of that comes from several experiments and learnings I’ve gotten from trying to optimize my CTR.  ![](/images/posts/inline/c645ed8f-organic-results-ctr-1024x378.png) Your CTR is directly influenced by your meta title and description.  ### Here are some serious data-driven guidelines to improve your CTR (data from this [study](https://backlinko.com/google-ctr-stats)): 1. **Include your keyword in the title and description (ideally towards the start)**.  2. Add a meta description to increase CTR by 5.8% 3. Add a question to your meta title to increase CTR by 14%  4. Add emotion to increase CTR by 7%  5. Add other words, such as: “How to”, “Checklist”, “2020”, “complete”, “7 tips to..” 6. My favorite: add emojis!  7. Keep your meta title between 15-40 characters to increase CTR by 8.6%. Note that Google only cares about pixel length and the max allowed length is 555 pixels (~60 chars). . You can test your pixel length [here](https://www.portent.com/serp-preview-tool).  ? Here’s a step-by-step exercise to improve your CTR by modifying your meta titles and description: ![](/images/posts/inline/5a5aba16-improve-ctr-1024x669.png) - Search your keyword and see what titles people are using. Try to come up with a better title than them. For instance, if you see people writing “20 gifts for grandma”, try “25 gifts for grandma” - When applicable, add the year or season to your post “25 gifts for grandma this christmas” - Add emotion “25 christmas gifts for grandma that will melt her heart” - Add emojis “?25 christmas gifts for grandma that will melt her heart ” - Write a great meta description “Become your grandma’s favorite grandson by picking one of these adorable christmas gifts. Options for all budgets”  - Booom! Lastly, your slugs (i.e. /christmas-gifts on abc.com*/christmas-gifts*) should follow these guidelines: - Make it short and use your keyword (abc.com/your-keyword) - Use lowercase, even for acronyms (use /what-is-yolo and not /what-is-YOLO) - Use dashes instead of underscores (use /simple-recipes and not /simple\_recipes) - Don’t use whitespaces (use /seo-guide and not /seo%20%guide) ? Another way to find really good meta titles is to look into the paid Adwords ads copy and find inspiration there. You can use [Spyfu](https://www.spyfu.com/) to look at what your competitors are using or just google your keyword and see the paid results.  ![](/images/posts/inline/670751de-spyfu-1024x963.png) This works well because most of Google’s business is based on Ad revenue (like [Facebook’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/)) and they optimize the ads they show based on relevancy and quality, and since they mostly make money from people clicking on ads, they will surely show the ads that have great clicks.  ? Also, as [this](https://searchengineland.com/seo-featured-snippets-leads-big-gains-236212) study on Search Engine Land shows, you can also improve your CTR by 400%+ if you [win the featured snippet](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/#How_to_Win_The_Featured_Snippet). (more on that later) ![](/images/posts/inline/5b951532-featured-snippet-1024x641.png) ??Need to improve your metas and CTR at scale? Use tools like [Rankscience](https://www.rankscience.com/) or [DistilledODN](https://odn.distilled.net/) to run A/B tests of your metas and measure your performance. ## 4\. Don’t just blog about keywords. Blog about “topics”.  Any good blog post will rank for multiple keywords.  Usually those keywords will be clustered around a certain topic.  ![](/images/posts/inline/86bcc191-seo-topic-clusters-pillar.png) What you don’t want to do is pick only one keyword and miss out on similar keywords.  For instance, let’s say your kw research lead you to the following 5 keywords: ?{cutest dogs, most beautiful dogs, toys for dogs, small dog toys, best dog breeds} ? While you could attempt to write 5 different posts to target each keyword separately you will be better off by writing 3 articles with the following keywords in them because the keywords are so similar 1\. {cutest dogs, most beautiful dogs}   2\. {toys for dogs, small dog toys} 3\. {best dog breeds} This is called keyword clustering.  In a nutshell, the pairing logic works as follows:  ![](/images/posts/inline/c769e2e8-keyword-clustering-hard-clustering-1200x490-1-1024x418.png) If two or more keywords share similar URLs on their google searches (let’s say at least 3 sites on the first 10 results), we group those keywords and consider them “similar”.  Once you find similar keywords, you can type them on Ahrefs and go to their parent topic.  ?Here’s a longer guide that explains [how to cluster your keywords](https://alexwright.net/blog/seo/keyword-clustering-explained/).  Once you got a list of a bunch of keywords you are looking to target, you can also use a tool like [SpySERP](https://spyserp.com/keyword-grouping) to cluster your topics.  With a bunch of content clusters you can start planning your content roadmap and… ## 5\. Do Content Layering (aka middle-of-the-funnel content) Content layering is very simple yet very powerful.  ![](/images/posts/inline/75174bef-content-layering-1024x663.jpg) It involves creating content that generates links, ranks well and layers directly on top of your key product/service landing page.  Let’s say you sell domain names and hosting.  While your “Register A Domain” landing page might not be able to compete with the GoDaddys and [Bluehosts](http://www.bluehost.com/track/aleriojablue) of the world given their insane DA (Domain Authority) and Adwords budget, you can still make a huge revenue improvement if you create content one step above that page in the buying process.  For instance, you can create articles such as “how to find the right domain name” or “how to buy a domain”, which will get you people who are very close to registering a domain.   ![](/images/posts/inline/f0b63ff0-content-layering-1024x720.png) Then in that slightly-easier-to-rank-article, you can include links to your landing page, thereby driving significant highly targeted traffic.  Content layering helps because: - You rank for easier keywords with high intent, and potentially earn backlinks, thereby increasing your authority - It builds brand awareness and might improve your CTR as people will recognize your articles/brand next time they do a search - You can build your product into those pages, helping you close more business. (For instance in the case of Hostinger, they can add a domain name checker tool on that blog post) This technique works great for [new ecommerce businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/), SaaS solutions and anyone else selling products where people might have specific questions right before purchasing.  ## 6\. Repurpose your content for Medium and Linkedin *This one is super easy and has a great effort/reward ratio. Can be outsourced easily.*  All there’s here is essentially mildly rewriting your post and publishing it to Medium and Linkedin.  Given that those 2 sites have really strong Domain Authority it is not uncommon for me to see that some of my posts do better on the SERPs. (Search Engine Result Pages)  For instance my blog post on [getting verified on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) that I repurposed for Linkedin has close to 180k views.  ![](/images/posts/inline/f1502c32-repurpose-on-linkedin-1024x194.png) On both platforms, what you can do is share 50-70% of the tips of your original article and then invite the readers to continue reading on your site.   You can add a sentence like “To read the last 3 tips, check the original article published on my site ” or “for the latest version of this article, check this link”. #### Here are some pro tips for Medium Use [Medium’s import tool](https://help.medium.com/hc/en-us/articles/214550207-Import-a-post) to import each blog post to Medium and automatically set the right canonical tag.  The steps to import an article to Medium are 1. Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner of the page and click Stories. 2. Click Import a story. 3. Paste the URL of the story you’d like to import into the field and click Import. 4. Click See your story. 5. Edit your post and click Publish to publish it on your profile. (Note that some of the anchor links usually are broken so you will need to go back and fix them)  You can also sign up for Medium’s Partner Program and earn some decent revenue from the reads on your article.  ![](/images/posts/inline/4bf45e6c-medium-publication-1024x763.png) Curious how I do it? Check our my SEO & Marketing publication on Medium. #### Here are some pro tips for Linkedin articles On Linkedin encourage people to connect with you and drop a comment/like at the end of your articles.  The benefit of this is that every time someone engages with your article, their entire network sees it on their News Feed, bringing you amazing 2nd and 3rd degree views you couldn’t otherwise get.  This is how I announced this post a few days ago… ![](/images/posts/inline/630676f8-linkedin-status-post-1005x1024.png) This got me ~12k views instead of my average of ~300 views. (a 40x improvement) Additionally, you can tweet your LInkedin article to [@LinkedinEditors](https://twitter.com/LinkedIneditors) with a compelling description so that you get featured on Linkedin Pulse and potentially reach millions of views as your article will be promoted to a large audience.  ? Need other Linkedin content hacks? Check [my Linkedin viral guide](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_b_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) on Huffington Post and this [guide to get featured on Linkedin Pulse](https://www.inc.com/john-white/how-to-get-your-blog-featured-on-linkedin-from-a-l.html).   ## 7\. Lower your bounce rate and increase time-on-site using “Open Loops” **Bounce rate** is the percentage of visitors that visit one page and leave your site, rather than continuing visiting other pages.  **Time on site** essentially tracks how much time someone has spent browsing your website.  These 2 metrics are important to Google because they indicate whether or not the content you produced is helping the users.  Publishing insanely good content will make your bounce rate lower and your Google rankings higher.  #### To lower your bounce rate, you can: - Hook your readers from the beginning (*“My first 3 years blogging were awful”*) - Make your site responsive and fast (more on that later) - Have a great site design that invites people to click around more (you can buy a beautiful website theme on [Envato](http://1.envato.market/c/1984821/298927/4662)) #### To improve your time on site: - Publish great relevant content - Write longer articles - Use Open Loops (read below) ### Let’s talk about to Open Loops I know you are wondering what **Open Loops** are, so let me explain. Open Loops are things (ideas, stories) that are left incomplete that your brain is rushing to finish or close.  Netflix does this really well by showing you a climactic moment right at the end of an episode so that you are hooked to watch the next.  You can do the same on your site.  For instance notice how on this post, I try to not only hook you from the beginning with a promise *“I’ll share with you my* ***best tips to increase your traffic*** *so that you too can get thousands of readers and leads per month”* but also throughout the post I have connectors between each tip such as *“that leads me to my next point..”* or *“as you’ll see later…”* Something else to keep your visitors longer on your site is to actually write compelling, long form articles.  - [Here’s how to write the best 2000+ word post](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-write-amazing-seo-articles-7-step-checklist-alejandro-rioja).  - If you are new to writing, I recommend reading some of [these books](https://www.copyblogger.com/classic-copywriting-books/). (My favorite is the [Boron Letters](http://www.thegaryhalbertletter.com/Boron/BoronLetterCh1.htm)) Last great hack I’ve been using is loading my next article when someone hits the end of a post.  This infinite loading keeps people on my site longer and bouncing less (which gives great [SEO signals](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) to Google) and also makes it more likely that they will share my article or close as a lead. You can use the [autoload next post WP plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/auto-load-next-post/) for that.  ## 8\. Offer your site in other languages  I’ve translated some of my most popular posts to over 12 languages including Spanish, Portuguese, French, Mandarin, Hindi, Arabic.  On any given month, my translated posts drive about 10-15k visitors to my site. ![translate your site](/images/posts/inline/9195eec7-translate-your-site.png) This is because it’s so much easier to rank in anything other than English given the lesser competition (do keep in mind that ad revenue might also be smaller in other languages).  If you were to translate your site to the top 12 economic languages, you will be able to reach 90% of all internet users (or 1.3B people).  I know you are curious to know which languages those are, so here you go. The top 12 internet languages (alphabetically) 1. Arabic / العربية (ar)‎ 2. Chinese / 中文 (zh\_CN)‎ 3. English / English (en\_US)‎ 4. French / Français (fr\_CA)‎ 5. German / Deutsch (de\_DE)‎ 6. Hindi / “हिन्दी (hi\_IN)‎ 7. Italian / Italiano (it\_IT)‎ 8. Japanese / 日本語 (ja\_JP)‎ 9. Korean / 한국어 (ko\_KR)‎ 10. Portuguese / Português (pt\_BR)‎ 11. Russian / Русский (ru\_RU)‎ 12. Spanish / Español (es\_ES)‎ If you are implementing this, I recommend creating separate folders such as abc.com/es/ and making sure you learn about the correct [hreflang](https://moz.com/learn/seo/hreflang-tag) implementation.  If you are just a content/affiliate blogger like me and have limited budget, I suggest using [Polylang](https://wordpress.org/plugins/polylang/) and [Lingotek](https://wordpress.org/plugins/lingotek-translation/) to get free machine translations of your posts. They are not perfect but they work well. Lingotek offers a connection to [Microsoft Azure translation API](https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/pricing/details/cognitive-services/translator-text-api/), which I like.  If you are a bigger company, you’ll probably be better off hiring actual professional translators.  ## 9\. Guest Blog in other highly trafficked sites to build backlinks and get referral traffic Akin to getting a shoutout on a big Instagram account (like the one for my site Mentioned [@futuresharksmedia](http://instagram.com/futuresharksmedia)), blogging on large sites will not only drive some decent traffic but will also earn you a quality backlink. For instance an article I wrote on the Huffington Post: “[How to Find Your Niche](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_b_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7?guccounter=1)” is driving a few hundred referral visits each month to my blog.  Don’t know where to start guesting? Try my [list of best guest post sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/).  Want to learn about my system to build 100s of links of DR60+ in just weeks? [DM me](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) if your budget per link is $200+. If you don’t want to write a new post, here’s a list of sites that allow you to republish your article - [Entrepreneur](https://www.entrepreneur.com/) - [Huffington Post](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/) - [The Next Web](https://thenextweb.com/) - [Lifehacker](https://lifehacker.com/) - [The Verge](https://www.theverge.com/) ? Here’s how you can [slide into the DMs of editors at Forbes, Mashable](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) and pitch your blog post idea.   ## 10\. Allow other people to guest post on your site ![](/images/posts/inline/7cb0be3d-future-sharks-logo.png) Want to know how I was able to grow one of my sites ([Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com/)) to 50k visitors per month in less than a year?  It happened when I realized that I was the bottleneck to creating content.  I then decided to allow people to contribute to my site, thereby making it a contributor site and now there are over 1000 articles published on the page.  *Related: Want to sign up to contribute to FS? Here’s* [*the link*](https://futuresharks.com/contribute)*. While at it, also sign up to* [*contribute to SoInfluential*](https://soinfluential.com/contribute) *and [Authority Daily](http://authoritydaily.com/subscription) (or any of my [other sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/))* A few things you need to keep in mind if you are allowing people to contribute: - Only allow topics related to your niche - No one should be allowed to post any spammy links  - You should try to link internally to other related posts  - You should conduct a content audit every so often  - The content should be at a minimum of 1000 words The easiest way to get started is to add a link that says “Contribute here” on your site menu. Then have people email you or message you with their topic pitch.  Another way is to selectively reply to the countless of emails you are probably already receiving from content agencies or white hat link builders and see if their quality is any good.  The last one is to sign up for websites that allow you to offer (paid) guest posting on your site, such as - My favorite → [Rankz.io](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/rankz/) - [Accessily](https://accessily.com/) - [No BS](https://nobs.link/)  - [Adsy](https://adsy.com/) This way you can also start monetizing your sites! ## 11\. Steal the best content from your competitors Go to Ahrefs and type a competitor in my case, let’s say Siege Media.  ![](/images/posts/inline/5ab36dde-competitor-pages-1024x416.png) Then you can go to their organic keywords. By default it will be sorted by traffic. Add those keywords to your list. (and run the keyword clustering idea from tip #4 above) You can also go to their Top Pages and see which pages are generating the most traffic, then analyze the keywords to those pages.  ![](/images/posts/inline/a7cae9b6-find-competitor-pages-1024x178.png) *That’s just a teaser. Want to know more about finding keywords? Here’s the complete guide to* [*keyword research*](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/)*.*  ## 12\. Steal your competitor’s traffic sources You can use [Similar Web](https://www.similarweb.com/) to find out where your competitor is getting traffic from.  ![similar-web-traffic](/images/posts/inline/512a1a22-similar-web-traffic-1024x763.png) For instance, I see that Backlinko (one of my competitors) is getting a ton of traffic from BlackHatWorld and Ahrefs. I can start publishing my articles on BHW and aim to do a collab post on the Ahrefs blog.  Can’t think of a competitor? Go to the competing domains on the left hand side of Ahrefs and see the keywords unique to your competitors.  ![competing domains](/images/posts/inline/afcf9b4f-competing-domains-1024x592.png) ## 13\. Refresh and update your content regularly Have a blog post that’s not doing well despite you having poured hours into it? Maybe it’s time for a refresh.  If you are a full-time blogger, you shouldn’t have any blog posts that you haven’t updated in the last 12-18 months. Given how fast things change, even something you wrote 6 months ago might need a refresh.  I’m constantly going back and updating my best content every 3-6 months, adding new strategies, removing ones that no longer work and adding new info.  For instance, one of my best posts is [a script to invite all your friends to like your page on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/).  Facebook is constantly changing its layout and functionality so I need to keep it up-to-date as much as possible.  You can use [Answer The Public](https://answerthepublic.com/) (free) or [Buzzsumo’s Question Analyzer](https://app.buzzsumo.com/discover/questions) (paid) to find questions that people are asking about your keywords.  ![increase website traffic answers](/images/posts/inline/96cc25b3-increase-website-traffic-answers-1024x1024.png) For instance, when I was writing this post, I typed “increase web traffic” into Answer The Public and found some keywords that I hadn’t thought of such as “*for free, bot, strategies, etc*”. I decided to add a few of those into this post.  Lastly you can add the [Last Modified WordPress plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-last-modified-info/) to show your visitors when your post was last refreshed so they know they are reading an updated version.  ## 14\. Build Backlinks and dominate organic search **Backlinks** are links from other sites to yours.  Google’s algorithm looks at over 200 factors to decide how to rank your site.  Content is #1. Backlinks are #2. ([Rankbrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) is #3) Backlinks are a vote of confidence of other sites to yours, and are a key ranking factor.  Need a quick estimate of how many backlinks you need to rank in the top 10? Use the **keyword search functionality on Ahrefs to find out**.  Once you know how many links you need, you can build backlinks by: - Guest posting on other sites - Making such an amazing or novel post that people naturally link to it - Inter-linking your blog post with other posts you’ve written in the past - Using [LinkProspector](https://citationlabs.com/tools/link-prospector/) (here’s also a guide on [how to do Link Prospecting](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-prospecting/)) - Reaching out to whoever is linking to your competitors and asking for a guest post (Type your competitor’s url into Ahrefs and go to backlinks overview to see who is linking to them) - Distributing your content through [Rankz](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/rankz/) and using [Authority Land](https://authorityland.com/) to do it at scale. Want to build an easy backlink? Comment on this post with your site and a friendly message 🙂 ## 15\. Don’t lose your visitors due to technical difficulties This includes making sure your site loads fast.  Here are a few things you can do: - Use a CDN (content delivery network). I like [Cloudflare](https://www.cloudflare.com/). - Use browser caching. For WordPress, I like [WP Fastest cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-fastest-cache/).  - Minify your CSS/JS (use [this](https://www.minifier.org/) tool) - Implement AMP (you can use the official [AMP Plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/amp/)) - Make sure your site is mobile-first - Make sure Google is crawling your site correctly (check for any errors on [Search Console](https://search.google.com/search-console/about)) - Implement HTTPS (SSL). You can do it for free using [Let’s Encrypt](https://letsencrypt.org/) (not compatible with Godaddy) - Optimize your images before uploading them to your site using [ImageOptim](https://imageoptim.com/mac).  ?Don’t have time to speed up your site or are not technically-savvy? Go on [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55) and search for “website speed” or “wordpress speed” and hire someone. You can use [this link](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55) to get 20% off.  Are you already getting 10,000 views and showing ads? Sign up for [Ezoic](http://ezoic.com?tap_a=6182-5778c2&tap_s=553361-8ff2ca) and not only increase your ad revenue but also speed up your site with their Site Accelerator.  Want to find out if Google is indexing your non-https urls? ![non https sites](/images/posts/inline/b7ab7410-non-https-sites-1024x417.png) You can search **site:example.com -inurl:https** and find out if Google’s index is showing them. You can then remove those pages or enforce https on them.  Want to find other technical issues? Use Screaming Frog. Here’s a [great tutorial](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9l8UdV3gQk4) on how to use that tool.  ## 16\. Make different types of content Don’t just stick to plain old blog posts.  Try infographics which will earn you shares, videos, ebooks and more.  ![](/images/posts/inline/c714f5bb-siege-better-content.png) Credit: [Siege](https://www.siegemedia.com/). ## SEO section wrap-up SEO is a great way to drive traffic to your site. Despite what you might have been led to believe, SEO is pretty straightforward. You just need great content and backlinks. If you have no budget for ads, get writing blog posts. If you want to learn more about SEO, read these guides: - [What is SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) - [How to do SEO for beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) (highly recommended) - ? [SEO for PROs](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) (highly recommended) - [How to do On-Page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [How to do Off-Page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/)  Now, let’s jump to the social media hacks below to see how status updates can help you drive traffic.  ![](/images/posts/inline/8ff3ec26-how-to-increase-website-traffic-with-social-media-1024x576.png) ## B) Social Media Marketing Techniques to Increase Your Traffic  Big shocker here but yes, you need to promote your site and articles on all the platforms.  For higher engagement with your posts, make sure your update is not just the article link but a few teasers of what people can expect in the post, so that they click.  For instance, I teased this post by making it password protected and got over 5k views on my status (compared to an average of 300 views).   ## 17\. How to automate your social media posts Need to do everything at scale? Use [IFTTT](https://ifttt.com/) or [Zapier](https://zapier.com/) to automatically post to your social accounts whenever you publish a new post.  You can also [hire a VA on Freeeup](https://freeeup.com/?a=f0bb0490-6114-41f3-9a93-baedc7e73772) or use tools like [SproutSocial](https://sproutsocial.com/), [Buffer](https://buffer.com/) or [Hootsuite](https://hootsuite.com/) to schedule your content sharing.  Lastly, if you don’t have much content to promote but still want to have a robust content calendar, you can sign up for [Quuu](https://quuu.co/) and have curated articles shared with your network.  Remember to always include a small ask at the end of your status post such as “like it if you found Y technique useful” or “share this with a friend that could benefit from X tip” or “comment which recipe you will be cooking this weekend” Also add social sharing buttons to your blog. They will make people share your content much more often.  *Btw, while we are here… mind sharing this post? It would mean a lot to me if you did. Tag me so I get happy 🙂*  ### Post at the best times to get more social engagement Here are some general guidelines as to when to post on each platform. ![best-time-to-post-on-social-media-infographic](/images/posts/inline/33463909-best-time-to-post-on-social-media-infographic.png) Oh, and by the way, feel free to share your article more than once.  There’s a high chance most of your followers didn’t click on it or see it the first time you shared it.   If you use SproutSocial, they have this feature called ViralPost that will attempt to post at the times that they have determined will get you the most engagement.  Alright, time for the growth hacks on each platform… ## 18\. Linkedin growth hacks to increase traffic For the best exposure, make sure you connect with as many people in your niche as possible prior to promoting your articles.  Also if you only publish high quality statuses people will start noticing, so don’t let your quality standards drop. For instance, my friend, [Hamza Khawaja](https://www.linkedin.com/in/onlyhamza/), has created a brand for himself of being the go-to person for college students seeking internship tips on Linkedin.  Here are the guidelines for the best reach on a Linkedin post: - Share 1-2 tips from your article and leave a few tips out that require people to go to your page.  - Space your status one line at the time so that people scroll and spend more time reading it.  - For the best reach, do not include the link in your post but rather include in it the first comment.  - Ask people to comment something or tag a friend that can benefit from your post. Even better, ask them to use a particular hashtag like “#traffic” so that you start trending. This helps growth hack your exposure as every time someone comments on your post, that post gets promoted to their followers.  Want to connect with me? [Send me a connection request](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alerioja) and tell me you found me on this article! ## 19\. Instagram growth hacks If you have more than 10k followers, do a swipe up story where you tease your article and encourage people to read more.  Instagram pods are key here. A pod is essentially a group chat where everyone agrees to like, comment, share each others posts as soon as they are live. Many people build them on [Telegram](https://telegram.org/).  The easiest way to get started is to get a handful of friends and create your own pod.  Ideally everyone in the pod has a similar amount of followers so that no one feels like their are getting a bad deal.  If your engagement is high in the first few minutes, Instagram might promote you to the Explore page where you will reach people who don’t already follow you.  A [study](https://www.agorapulse.com/social-media-lab/30-hashtags-on-instagram-posts-yes-or-no) done by Agora Pulse on IG hashtags, showed that you should use all 30 hashtags if you want to increase your engagement. And yeah, you should put them in the post, rather than the first comment.  Btw, you can automate your IG and Pinterest growth with a bot called [Jarvee](https://jarvee.com/).  *Pro tip: Learn how to* [*get verified on IG*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) *and* [*verified on FB*](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) *to increase the reach of your posts and legitimacy.*   ## 20\. Drive traffic through Pinterest pins I grew one of my clients’ Pinterest to over 12k monthly viewers, all automated.  I used Jarvee for this.  I found some related boards and re-pinned their most pinned content. Since the content was already validated (people liked it), I knew my boards will also be enjoyed by other users.  You can add your url to say 15% of all pins driving more traffic to your page for free.  Pro tip: Here’s a script to [get more followers on Pinterest](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-mass-follow-on-pinterest-scripts/).  If you don’t want to use a bot, you can find services on [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55) that will grow your Pinterest up to a 1M monthly views, just search for “pinterest”.  ## 21\. Good ol’ Facebook posting for website traffic Facebook pages are no longer that useful given the terrible organic reach. (I’ll cover FB paid strategies further down) 2 things I see working well these days are: - Having a public personal profile ([here’s mine](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro)) and befriending people in your niche who will enjoy your content - Having a private group that people need to request to Join (e.g. [Stacking Growth](https://www.facebook.com/groups/stackgrowth/)) where you only admit people who are interested in your content.  In both of those cases, you want to curate an audience of readers and potential buyers that will engage with your posts.  ## 22\. Don’t forget about Reddit / Steemit You can also post on relevant subreddits or Steemit to get your post some serious new traffic.  To find relevant subreddits, just head to Reddit.com and type a keyword such as “vegan”. You can then see different communities.  ![subreddits](/images/posts/inline/e2f0316c-subreddits-1024x443.png) Join a few, build up good karma by commenting without a link.  Later, then post an original guide on reddit for instance “how to make jackfruit tacos” and then at the bottom link to your jackfruit article.  Don’t have time to build up all that Karma? Hire someone on [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55) with high karma to post for you for $5.  You can use the plugin [Steempress](https://wordpress.org/plugins/steempress/) to automatically post to Steemit.  ## 23\. Leverage Snapchat/Tiktok if you are trying to reach a younger audience Learn [how I got thousands of followers on Snap](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) and do the same for your business.  I don’t know much about TikTok other than the fact that’s blowing up. You should aim to be there now and establish your influence.  You can copy some of the best vines or Tik Tok’s most viewed videos, remix them, add your own personal touch, and post them. ## 24\. Use a “sharewall” I totally just made up this word but it’s essentially a paywall that requires someone to share your post to access the content.  You can lock certain parts of your blog post and only allow people to read them if they share your post. Here are a [few plugins](https://blog.hubspot.com/website/best-content-locker-wordpress-plugins) you can use to lock your content.  You can put an ebook behind this “sharewall” or a very valuable tip.   *Warning: don’t lock up too much of your content or you will start missing out on your SEO optimization.*  #### Click to Tweet People are lazy and don’t want to spend time thinking which one-liner from your post will make them sound smart on Twitter.  Do the work for them and have a few key tips ready to be tweeted with a click.  You can do this using [ClickToTweet.com](http://clicktotweet.com).  ## 25\. Use QuuuPromote to blow your social shares out of the water ? ![quuu promote results](/images/posts/inline/df811aac-image-1.png) [QuuuPromote](https://quuupromote.co/) shows your content to people who are looking to share curated articles to their network.  If you start a promo, your article will be circulated around various people who are looking to share articles on their selected niches.  In my opinion, it’s worth trying a test out for $40 and see how the shares improve.  In a few days, I’ve gotten 50-150 shares. Not too shabby, although the click rate is quite low. (I can only hope those are real accounts) ## D) Other Growth Channels ## If you are a brick and mortar store or provide local services, use Google My Business Here you can sign up for [Google My Business](https://www.google.com/business/).  The pro tip here is to have an Offer running at all times. Businesses with offers get more views and the “[offers appear near the top of the Business Profile on Google Search and Maps](https://support.google.com/business/answer/7662907?hl=en).”  ![](/images/posts/inline/73af5b48-google-my-business.png) For example a dating coach in Austin could list him or herself on Google My Business and set the service area to +20 miles.  People who are located in ATX and are searching for “dating coach” will likely come across this coach and visit his or her website.  The offer should be compelling enough for people to then close. An applicable offer here could be “free 15 min phone consultation” or “free date outfit audit”. Think of something that will make your prospects be interested in your business over the rest.  You should also aim to have as close to 5 stars as possible.  ## Also use Yelp to drive traffic Similarly to your Google business page, you should aim to have your profile as complete as possible.  In certain niches, running promotions on Yelp tend to pay off. Some good ones are lawyers, tax attorneys, dentists, and others.  ### How to get more 5-stars on Yelp, Google and Trustpilot: - If you are a restaurant, offer a free dessert or boba for any review (while you shouldn’t directly ask for 5 stars, people will tend to review you highly anyway) - You can also email previous customers and ask for a review - Include links to review your business on your website and social posts ### Use Quora to drive super qualified leads If you are an SEO tool, you should be answering Quora questions such as “[What are the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) out there?” On top of answering and building your personal brand, you will also earn great referral traffic.  Pro tip: You can even find super easy keywords to rank by using Ahrefs to find all the keywords that quora.com is ranking for.  Then you can find some of the juiciest keywords you could ever dream of.  Since Quora isn’t a targeted site, you will likely outrank it with your niche site.  ## Hijack the news and be the first to cover a topic This is a great strategy [Everipedia](https://everipedia.org/) used. During their first years, they aimed to write articles faster than Wikipedia or any other news site when a major event or personality emerged.  You can also [use Google trends](https://trends.google.com/trends/trendingsearches/realtime?geo=US&category=all) to find some interesting breakout stories. ![](/images/posts/inline/98456016-google-trends-1024x480.png) For instance on Nov 2, 2019 the US was looking at several UFC fights. You can also use the category dropdown to filter based on your niche. It’s not always useful but sometimes you can find a very good never seen before topic that you can cover.  ## Use Google Analytics to analyze where your traffic is coming from  Head to Google Analytics and click on [Acquisition > All Traffic > Channels](https://analytics.google.com/analytics/web/#/report/acquisition-channels/).  Here you will be able to see which channels are driving traffic to your site (Organic Search, Direct, Referral, Social, Other).  Here you have a choice, either double down on your best channels or improve the ones that you’ve been neglecting.  For instance, I can see that I’m driving the most traffic through organic search which means my [SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) work.  But, on the other hand, I haven’t done much promotion on social media, so I should start sharing there more.  ## Analyze your competitors and steal their content strategies See a blog doing something interesting? You should definitely study their tactics.  For instance, the other day I saw [Databox](https://databox.com/) interviewing tons of thought leaders and creating a big listicle article. This is a great idea because every thought leader will share that article and drive tons of new website traffic. Not only that but also people will tend to link back to their site, getting them a ton of links.  You bet I’ll be doing the same with my [So Influential](http://soinfluential.com/) blog.  ## Build and leverage your email list On several of my sites, returning traffic is key.  Here’s a good plugin to build an [automated email notification every time you post an article](https://wordpress.org/plugins/email-posts-to-subscribers/) (or every Sunday, etc).  Another benefit of a list is that you will have some warm leads to sell your course or program to.  Best tools for this are Mailchimp, Braze, Marketo. ### Chatbots Another great tip is to build a Facebook chatbot and broadcast your articles there. I suggest using [Manychat](https://manychat.pxf.io/3xWVK) for this.  The benefit of a chatbot is that they have a 70%+ open rate and a 15%+ CTR. (insane!) ### Web push subscribers Notify your subscribers when a new post is up via Chrome notifications.  Two tools that will help you accomplish that are [Subscribers.com](https://subscribers.com/) and [PushAlert](https://pushalert.co/).  ## Be on YouTube ? Another great way to drive traffic to your site is to post content on Youtube.  If you want to see which keywords on Google Searches are showing Youtube videos on the results page, here’s how you can do that.  Head on to Ahrefs and use the keyword filters to “include = video”.  Learn other Youtube traffic tips.  ## Do targeted outreach and email your blog post out  Find bloggers using [AuthoritySpy](https://authorityspy.com/) and send them a link to your post sharing with you thought it would be useful to them.  As long as you don’t come off as spammy and your article is super valuable to them, I don’t see why anyone will get mad.  ## Use PR This ties back into growing your personal brand.  Need a mention quickly? Sign up for [HARO](https://www.helpareporter.com/) and help reporters fill in the expert info they need to publish their articles today.  Here are other tricks to [get press for your company](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/).  Need a PR agency recommendation? [DM me](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) if your budget is $5k+. I know just the right firm.  *? Want to grow your brand and be featured on [Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com/), [So Influential](https://soinfluential.com/), [Authority Daily](http://authoritydaily.com/) and [CryptoTimes](http://cryptotim.es)? [DM me](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) and we will make it happen. (Ask me about the bundle pricing). * The beauty of a site like Future Sharks is that it’s super easy to get on and it usually provides a springboard for the rest of your PR. (i.e. many people got their first press article on FS and then eventually went on to Forbes).  Not only that, but getting on FutureShark’s homepage also gives you a ton of exposure to more than 50,000 readers.  You can find out about the [pricing](https://futuresharks.com/subscription/) here.  ## Write amazing headlines to draw the reader in.  Even the best blog post will go unread if you fail to spike the interest of the reader. Also juicy headlines will get you more social shares, thereby driving more traffic.  Here are some [great hacks to reverse engineers the best Buzzfeed headlines](https://getcodeless.com/buzzfeed-headline-tricks/).  ## Leverage influencers Sometimes a tweet from a respected leader in an industry is all you need to go viral.  Need to find the best influencers? Head to [SoInfluential](http://soinfluential.com/).  ## Grow your brand For instance, each month I’m able to drive about 1000 people who search for my name “Alejandro Rioja” to my site.  ![](/images/posts/inline/2a61343e-branded-queries-1024x249.png) If you are a company or an individual, you should be aiming to capture brand equity so that your prospective clients are searching you by your name.  You can do this by getting quoted on other sites, being consistent with your publishing, and going on TV shows, speaking gigs and podcasts.  A benefit of podcasts is that you can also get a backlink to your site.  Same thing with speaking gigs. [When I spoke at Ontraport’s Ontrapalooza event](https://ontraport.com/blog/brand-building/alejandro-rioja/), I was able to get several mentions and traffic to my site.  ## Need to get your product to catch on like fire? Use Viral Loops Viral Loops will incentivize the user to share, tweet, or refer a friend to earn a higher spot in line.  This is great for giveaways, limited time sneakers, conferences, etc.  Alright time to close this post off. Here are the tools I swear by.  ## Services and tools you need to use to grow your website business 1. [Freeeup](https://freeeup.com/?a=f0bb0490-6114-41f3-9a93-baedc7e73772) (absolutely amazing when it comes to finding ghost writers) 2. [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55) (get your social media posts, infographics, emails, videos) 3. [Canva](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/canva) (easily design your own blog covers and graphics) 4. One or more of these [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), my favorites being: 1. Google Analytics (essential) 2. Google Search Console (essential) 3. Ahrefs or SEMRush (pick one) 5. If you need paid growth 1. Facebook Ads Manager (tutorial coming soon!) 2. Google Adwords (let me know if you want a tutorial in the comments) 3. Your particular niche lead generator (for example, if you are in [the insurance niche](http://theinsurancenerd.com/), buy ads on [Nerdwallet](https://www.nerdwallet.com/)) 4. Taboola, Outbrain ## Bottom line Traffic is a matter of consistency, and a few growth hacks here and there. Remember, keep at it, and you will see your traffic increase over time.  The more content, the more potential shares and the more your traffic will compound.  The techniques shared here work best when you combine a lot of them at the same time.  Would love if you dropped a comment telling me which one of these strategies you plan on implementing next. Also if you know of any other hacks or tips to get more web traffic, please share it with the community in the comments 🙂 If you share this post, tag me and write 2-3 sentences about it. Every 50 shares, I’ll pick one person and do a free audit of their marketing funnel 🙂   Liked this post? read all my other [amazing marketing guides](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) for free. Also read [my Flux story](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/).  ## How growth and traffic works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When I wrote the original tactics in this post, organic Google was 90%+ of my traffic. In 2026 the mix is more interesting: classic Google is still the largest single channel, but AI search referral (Perplexity sources, ChatGPT browse links, Google AI Overview clicks, Copilot citations) is now a real second column in my analytics. The growth tactics below still drive the underlying content depth that earns both — what changes is how you package the same depth so an LLM can lift it cleanly. The single biggest change in my own workflow: every long-form post now opens with a TL;DR and ends with an FAQ. Same writing, same depth, just a structural overlay. That one habit moved AI-engine citations on this site from ‘occasionally’ to ‘regularly,’ without touching the body of any existing post. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for growth and traffic 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/), [how to 10X your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/). ## FAQ — growth and traffic in the AI search era ### Are AI engines actually sending traffic, or just summarizing? Both. Perplexity routinely sends click-throughs from its source citations. ChatGPT browse and search modes link out. Google AI Overviews link to sources directly under the AI summary. The click-through rate is lower than a #1 organic position but the intent is higher — people who click an AI citation are usually deep in research mode. ### Should I optimize for AI Overviews or for Perplexity? Both, and you don’t have to choose. The structural moves that earn citations in one engine — TL;DR up top, numbered steps, FAQ at the bottom, schema markup, primary-source links — earn them in all of them. The differences between engines are at the margins; the fundamentals are shared. ### Does my old content still need rewrites for AI search? Not full rewrites. A structural overlay is usually enough — add a TL;DR, add an FAQ, add a numbered step-by-step block where it fits. That’s exactly the refresh I’m doing on this site, post by post. The original tactics in your evergreen content are still good; you’re just repackaging them for a second audience. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## JavaScript SEO Guide: Optimize Your Website For Search Engines Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/javascript-seo-best-practices/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: JavaScript SEO — making sure crawlers can render and index your JS-heavy site — was historically a Google-specific concern. In 2026 it’s also an AI-engine concern, because LLM crawlers vary in how well they render JavaScript. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** JavaScript SEO — making sure crawlers can render and index your JS-heavy site — was historically a Google-specific concern. In 2026 it’s also an AI-engine concern, because LLM crawlers vary in how well they render JavaScript. The fundamentals below still apply for Google; the GEO section covers the AI-engine wrinkle. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line JavaScript serves as a programming language employed to craft interactive and dynamic web pages, ranking among the most widely used languages globally. It finds application in numerous prominent websites across the internet. Furthermore, JavaScript offers the potential to enhance your website’s search engine optimization (SEO). However, it’s crucial to remain cognizant of associated difficulties and take appropriate measures to address them. Foremost among the challenges in JavaScript SEO is the occasional struggle search engines encounter when attempting to crawl and render JavaScript-based content. This may lead to inadequate indexing or incorrect indexing of your JavaScript content. Another challenge pertains to the potential impact of JavaScript on your website’s performance. Poorly optimized JavaScript code can result in sluggish website loading times, causing user frustration and detrimental consequences for SEO. Despite these obstacles, there exist strategies to bolster the SEO of your JavaScript-driven website. JavaScript is a programming language that enables web developers to craft engaging and responsive web pages. It serves as the backbone for numerous web functionalities we commonly encounter, including menus, forms, and animations. Moreover, JavaScript has the potential to [enhance your website’s search engine optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) (SEO). Through code optimization, you can streamline how search engines navigate, display, and catalog your content, ultimately boosting your website’s visibility. ## Why is JavaScript SEO important? Search engines are continually enhancing their capacity to process and catalog JavaScript content. Nevertheless, certain obstacles may still obstruct search engines from accessing your JavaScript-rendered material. For instance, if your JavaScript code is excessively intricate or inadequately constructed, search engines might struggle to correctly render your webpage. Consequently, your content may fail to appear in search results. Furthermore, search engines might encounter difficulties in indexing dynamically loaded JavaScript content. In other words, if your JavaScript code handles the loading of certain content elements, such as product descriptions or blog posts, search engines may be unable to recognize and index that content. ## How to use JavaScript for SEO There are a number of things you can do to optimize your JavaScript code for SEO. Here are a few tips: ### Use progressive enhancement Progressive enhancement in web development is a philosophy that revolves around constructing websites in a manner that ensures accessibility for all users, regardless of their browser or device capabilities. One effective way to apply [progressive enhancement using JavaScript](https://www.w3schools.com/js/default.asp) is to initially deliver your content without relying on JavaScript. Afterward, you can utilize JavaScript to enhance the overall user experience. This approach guarantees that your content remains accessible to users who have disabled JavaScript or those who are using older browsers that might not fully support JavaScript. In cases where users have JavaScript disabled, they will still have access to the fundamental content of your page, albeit without the ability to utilize the dynamic features. ### Use server-side rendering (SSR) Server-side rendering (SSR) is a nifty method that preps your web pages right on the server before sending them off to the user’s browser. This nifty trick can work wonders for enhancing the SEO performance of your websites that are loaded up with JavaScript, making it a breeze for search engines to scan and catalogue your content. Lucky for you, there’s a handful of JavaScript frameworks like Next.js and Nuxt.js that are all gung-ho about SSR. So, if you’re riding the wave with one of these frameworks, it’s definitely worth giving SSR a shot to give your website’s SEO a boost. ### Use lazy loading Lazy loading is like a clever trick that delays the loading of images and other stuff on your website until someone actually asks for it. It’s like saying, “Hey, don’t load everything all at once!” This can make your [website run faster](https://alejandrorioja.com/mobile-seo-mistakes/) because it means less stuff has to be loaded right from the start. To make lazy loading happen on your website, you can use JavaScript. There are some handy JavaScript libraries out there that can assist you with this, like LazyLoad.js and Lozad.js. They make the whole process much easier. ### Optimize your JavaScript code You ought to fine-tune your JavaScript code for maximum efficiency. Doing so will not only enhance your website’s performance but also make it more accessible for search engines to navigate and index your content. ## Tips to optimize your JavaScript code ### Minify your JavaScript code to remove unnecessary whitespace and comments You can enhance your website’s performance by utilizing a JavaScript bundler to merge all your JavaScript files into one. This minimizes the need for multiple HTTP requests. Additionally, employing a JavaScript linter can assist in identifying potential errors and adhering to best coding practices. ### Use structured data Structured data serves as a method for enhancing your content’s comprehensibility to search engines. By implementing this approach, you can potentially enhance your website’s position in search results and increase the likelihood of your content being featured in enriched snippets. To incorporate structured data into your website, JavaScript can be a valuable tool. Various JavaScript libraries, including JSON-LD.js and Microdata.js, are at your disposal to assist you in this endeavor. ### Test your JavaScript SEO After you’ve fine-tuned your [JavaScript code](https://javascript.info/) to boost its SEO performance, the next step is to verify whether search engines can effectively explore, display, and catalog your content. You’ll find several tools at your disposal for testing your JavaScript SEO, including Google Search Console, Screaming Frog SEO Spider, and Google Lighthouse. ## Examples of JavaScript SEO Here are a few examples of how JavaScript can be used to [improve the SEO of your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/): 1. Creating dynamic titles and descriptions. JavaScript can be used to create dynamic titles and descriptions for your web pages, which can help to improve your click-through rate (CTR) in the search results. 2. Implementing internal linking. JavaScript can be used to implement internal linking on your website, which can help to improve the SEO of your website by helping search engines to discover and index all of your content. 3. Creating interactive content. JavaScript can be used to create interactive content on your website, such as polls, quizzes, and calculators. This type of content can help to engage your visitors and keep them on your website longer, which can have a positive impact on your SEO. ## Advantages of JavaScript SEO - Improved user experience: JavaScript can be used to create interactive and dynamic web pages, which can improve the user experience. This can lead to increased engagement and traffic, which can have a positive impact on SEO. - Increased accessibility: JavaScript can be used to make web pages more accessible to users with disabilities. This is important for both SEO and ethical reasons. - Improved performance: JavaScript can be used to optimize the performance of web pages. This can lead to faster loading times, which can improve SEO and user experience. - More control over SEO: JavaScript can be used to implement a number of SEO techniques, such as progressive enhancement, server-side rendering, and structured data. This gives you more control over how your website is crawled and indexed by search engines. - Increased opportunities for innovation: JavaScript is a powerful language that can be used to create all sorts of innovative web experiences. This can help you to stand out from the competition and attract more visitors to your website. ## Disadvantages of JavaScript SEO - Complexity: JavaScript can be a complex language to learn and use. This can make it difficult to optimize JavaScript code for SEO, especially for those who are not familiar with the language. - Browser compatibility: Not all [browsers](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/JavaScript) support JavaScript in the same way. This can make it challenging to ensure that your JavaScript code works as expected on all browsers. - SEO challenges: JavaScript can pose some challenges for SEO, such as the need to make sure that your JavaScript content is crawlable and indexable by search engines. Additionally, JavaScript can sometimes impact the performance of a web page, which can also have a negative impact on SEO. ## Additional tips for improving JavaScript SEO ### Use a JavaScript SEO plugin There are a number of JavaScript SEO plugins available for popular content management systems, such as WordPress and Drupal. These plugins can help you to optimize your JavaScript code for SEO without having to write any code yourself. ### Hire a JavaScript SEO expert If you are not familiar with JavaScript or SEO, you may want to consider hiring a JavaScript SEO expert to help you optimize your website. A JavaScript SEO expert can help you to identify and fix any JavaScript SEO issues on your website, and they can also help you to implement best practices for JavaScript SEO. ## Wrap It Up JavaScript can be a powerful tool for improving the SEO of your website. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges involved and to take steps to mitigate them. By following the tips in this guide, you can improve the SEO of your JavaScript website and attract more visitors from search engines. Like this post? Read some of my past blogs below: - [8 Commonly Misinterpreted Metrics in Google Analytics (And How to Set Them Straight)](https://alejandrorioja.com/8-commonly-misinterpreted-metrics-in-google-analytics/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2023 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google 2023🚀](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## How JavaScript SEO and AI engines works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) Google’s renderer is still the most capable — it executes most modern JS reliably. The AI-engine crawlers (GPTBot, PerplexityBot, ClaudeBot, etc.) range from limited to capable depending on the engine. As of 2026, the safe assumption is that JS-rendered content may be invisible to some AI engines, even if Google indexes it fine. Practical implication: serve critical content (TL;DR, key headings, FAQ, schema) in static HTML, not JS-rendered. Use server-side rendering or static generation for the parts of the page that matter for AI-engine citation. Keep JS for interactivity and below-the-fold enhancements. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for JavaScript SEO and AI engines 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [the technical SEO audit guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/). ## FAQ — JavaScript SEO and AI engines in the AI search era ### Do all AI engines render JavaScript in 2026? Varies. Google’s AI Overview uses Google’s renderer (capable). Perplexity’s crawler renders JS but with less consistency. ChatGPT’s browse mode renders well; its training crawl historically didn’t. Plan for the lowest common denominator. ### Should I migrate from a JS framework to static HTML for SEO? Not necessarily — modern frameworks support SSR and static generation natively. Use those features for content pages; keep client-side JS for interactive UI. ### How do I check whether AI engines are rendering my JS content? Manual: query a head term that should pull from JS-rendered content, see if AI engines cite the page. If they cite competitor pages with similar content but in static HTML, your JS rendering is hurting AI visibility. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How to Do Keyword Research – The Complete Guide 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Keyword research in 2026 is bifurcated. Google search demand is still measured the classic way — Ahrefs, SEMrush, Google Search Console — and the keyword universe below still applies. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Keyword research in 2026 is bifurcated. Google search demand is still measured the classic way — Ahrefs, SEMrush, Google Search Console — and the keyword universe below still applies. But AI search demand has its own signal: prompts. The new section covers how to research the prompts people actually use in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews, and how to fold them into your existing keyword strategy. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* When I started blogging, I simply [wrote a lot of articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) without caring so much about the keywords I was targeting. I just wrote and hoped for the best. As I quickly found out, this approach led to no visits to my blog because my posts only ranked for keywords with very low volume, if at all. But as I got [more and more proficient in SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), I discovered a [blueprint that keeps putting my site at the top of Google every time](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). This blueprint, combined with some solid **keyword research** is all you need to also rank at the top. In today’s post, I will show you how you can *easily find keywords to target* and how to *include those in your posts effortlessly* to increase your traffic and rankings. Want help with your site’s SEO audit and campaign? Hire me for a consultation. - [ Sale Product on sale ![30 Min Consultation](/images/posts/inline/10aa3a67-30-min-seo-consultation.png) 30 Min Consultation ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. Rated **4.73** out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/17348?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus&add-to-cart=23495) - [ ![Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy](/images/posts/inline/d9b2d700-seo-audit-1.png) Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) $9,500 Rated **4.89** out of 5 based on 9 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/17348?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus&add-to-cart=26553) I will also explain what keywords are, how to use them, what not to do (very important!), and the one *deep, dark secret to getting Google’s attention.* Ready? ## In the Beginning… The Start of Keywords When the internet started there was no good way to find the information or websites you wanted. In fact, everyone had to keep a list of the web address that they liked. Then search engines came along to fix this problem. The very first search engine was called Archie. It was created in 1990 by Alan Emtage at McGill University in Montreal. It was, in essence, a database of file names that one could search to find what they were looking for. In 1991, Tim Berners-Lee invented the concept of the World Wide Web. It was a system whereby information could be transferred easily and quickly. *Related:* [*Read about the history of blogging*](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/) It didn’t take long for a bunch of search engines to show up. Each of them, including Google, are based on some simple principles. A *spider* goes out and looks for web pages. Those pages are scanned and cataloged. How does the spider understand what the page is all about? It uses keywords and keyword density to figure out the main topic of the page. With this information, the spider tags the page and clusters it in a category such as “health care” for example. ## What are keywords? Keywords and their use on websites is really not an unfathomable idea. In fact, when you step back from it a bit, they are quite simple. Dictionary.com defines a keyword as, “a word or concept of great significance.” It goes on to say, “an informative word used in an information retrieval system to indicate the content of a document.” Keywords are words in any document that tell you what the document is about. In fact, it’s not that hard to demonstrate, particularly when you’re looking at non-fiction items. Let’s consider the following passage, scanning only the keywords highlighted: *“**Michael Jordan* *(born February 17, 1963) is a professional American* *basketball* *player, Olympic athlete, businessperson and actor. Considered one of the best* *basketball players* *ever, Michael Jordan dominated the sport from the mid-1980s to the late 1990s. He led the Chicago Bulls to six National Basketball Association* *championships* *and earned the NBA’s Most Valuable Player Award five times. With five regular-season MVPs and three All-Star MVPs, Jordan became the most decorated player in* *NBA* *history.” – (From* [*Biography.com*](https://www.biography.com/people/michael-jordan-9358066)*)* Here is a list of potential keywords: Michael Jordan, basketball, basketball players, championships, NBA. With these keywords the spider might make the following associations (as explained in my [RankBrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) article): Michael Jordan <-> basketball, basketball player <-> NBA <-> championships By simply scanning for keywords Google can clearly understand what that passage is all about and start ranking that site for keywords like *“who is michael jordan?”* or *“michael jordan championships”* So in short, keywords give us the main topic of an article. So now that you know what keywords are and what they look like, how do you decide what keywords to use on your website? How can you maintain great keyword usage throughout the site? ## How to find the right keywords Here are 3 simple ways to find good keywords for your site 1. Write a list of what your website is about 2. Look at what Google and other tools say about those words 3. Steal keywords from your competitors I will go in depth about each of them now. ### Step One: Make a list I’m going to use a single example throughout the rest of the article to make it easy to track the progress of a single website. The business: **Frank’s Plumbing and Heating** Location: **Iowa City, Iowa** The first thing that Frank needs to do is a make a list of words that are relevant to what he does. It’s simply a list of nouns and verbs that relate to his business. 1. Toilet 2. Sink 3. Plumbing 4. Pipes 5. Emergency service  6. Leaks 7. Installation 8. Construction 9. Sewer 10. Shower 11. Faucet Those are all words that relate to Frank’s plumbing business. That’s not everything, but it’s a great start. Armed with his list, Frank is going to see what search engines have to say about what he does. #### **Use Ubersuggest for More Keywords** One thing that you can do now is to take your list to [Ubersuggest](https://neilpatel.com/ubersuggest/). It’s a free tool that will take your main keywords and expand on them. All you have to do is enter a keyword and Ubersuggest will show you a list of related keywords that you can try. The Ubersuggest list can also be used to estimate how good your initial list was in terms of volume, CPC and competition. (Related: [here are the highest paying Adsense keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/)) This list can be compared to the tool that’s next, Google’s Keyword Tool. ### Step 2: Use Google Keyword Search and other Keyword Research tools Since Google is the big dog, I will speak about Google most of the time. Everything you do for Google will work well for Bing, Yahoo, Baidu, and every other search engine. Google is used for nearly 68% of all internet searches. Another important note is that only 15% of all searches are unique. That means that 85% of all searches are repeated. That’s why keywords work well, but at the same time [exact-match keywords are not as useful as they used to be](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). Google offers a great and free keyword search tool: [its Keyword Planner](https://adwords.google.com/home/tools/keyword-planner/). If you are new to Adwords, you will need to open an account to use it. Follow their instructions to set up an account. Don’t worry, you don’t have to spend money. You only need to promise to think about it. After you’re in, you’ll see this page: ![how to do keyword research](/images/posts/inline/900d3cd0-how-to-do-keyword-research.png) You will want to search using a phrase, for now.  Frank is just going to type “Plumbing” into the search box: ![how to do keyword research 2](/images/posts/inline/6a34d4fe-how-to-do-keyword-research-2.png) There is a box at the bottom that he can use to focus on Iowa City. Since he doesn’t have a national business, he will put the city name in there. Frank doesn’t speak Spanish, so he is going to use English words. ![](/images/posts/inline/bdda6460-how-to-find-keywords.png) Now we have a list of keywords: ![how to find keywords - Google Keyword Planner](/images/posts/inline/5e57ef4b-how-to-find-keywords-1.png) By clicking on the “Avg. Monthly Searches”, you can arrange the keywords that Google supplies you in order of the most searched. Note that the first result, “plumbing supply,” isn’t useful to a plumber, so Frank eliminates it from his list. The next few words, though, are perfect Frank’s needs. Here are other [tools you can use to do keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) (and more, like backlink building). ### Step 3: Stealing keywords The next thing to do is to ‘steal’ keywords from your best competitors. Frank will Google, “plumbers near me.” The first three or four listing, as long as they are actual competitors will work great. We’re going to use a new and somewhat simpler tool: [https://www.semrush.com/features/domain-vs-domain/](https://www.semrush.com/features/domain-vs-domain/) Another tool that you can use is [Ahrefs](http://ahrefs.com). For more tools for keyword research tools click [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/). Both of these companies offer a very low introductory price, so you can get started with this and also check out the massive suite of SEO tools that each offers. The first plumber on Frank’s list came up as: [https://hawkeyesewer.com/](https://hawkeyesewer.com/). Simply put the website URL and hit enter. ![how to find keywords 2](/images/posts/inline/64d810b9-how-to-find-keywords-2.png) The page will give you results of the keyword density on the Hawkeye Sewer website. Here you can see what Hawkeye Sewer is doing right. Do that with two or three more websites, and you have a great keyword list to work from. ### Using Google Search to Find Suggested Keywords At the bottom of the first page of Google searches there is always a list of related search terms that you can look at. When Frank types in “plumber Iowa City”, we can see that Google makes suggestions of other searches that you can use. These search suggestions can be incorporated into your list of keywords and phrases so that you can try to capture that traffic as well. #### **Put it all together** Now, you can just put it all together, copy and paste all the keywords into an Excel spreadsheet that weight the words based on keyword density on different sites, as well as the monthly search information from Google. You can sort this by Volume or Difficulty and get writing. ##### **Keyword Difficulty** One thing that you can do to make your life easier is to discover the “keyword difficulty” of the primary keyword or phrase that you’re using. One tool that you can use to figure this out easily is [KW Finder](https://kwfinder.com/). When you type in the keywords there, you’ll see keyword difficulty numbers. The higher the number, the more difficult it will be to rank for that keyword. It simply means that there’s a lot of competition. If you have a website that is already getting a lot of traffic, you can reorient your text to that word. On the other hand, if you have a new website, you might look for a number that’s low (<10-20). It will allow you to rank in a smaller niche. Later, when you’ve gotten traffic from the new keyword, you can go for the harder words. Additionally, you can find a wealth of other keywords at Ahref’s Keyword Explorer. When we type a keyword like “hire a plumber” we can see that it’s difficulty is 18 and that we need about 20 backlinks to rank in the top 10 results for this keyword. ![How To Do Keyword Research and Use Keywords in Your Posts ahrefs](/images/posts/inline/8c8462a6-how-to-do-keyword-research-and-use-keywords-in-your-posts.png) You will also see various search suggestions and other keyword opportunities you might have missed. #### **Some More Tools You Can Use** Here is a [list of great online tools that you can use to look up keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), check on competitors, and improve your page ranking. 1. [Google Trends](http://trends.google.com) – free – Google Trends tracks keyword usage in real time. This allows you to see what keywords are on the rise and which ones aren’t as popular. You can focus your energy writing on new keywords because presumably there isn’t as much in-depth content about that topic yet.  2. [Wordstream](https://www.wordstream.com/keywords) – free – Enter your competitor’s URL, industry, and location and you can see what the searches are in that are for their keywords. It’s a powerful free tool that allows you really see what’s going on. 3. [Moz Keyword Explorer](https://moz.com/explorer) – paid – Moz is one of the leading resources for SEO tools online. Their keyword explorer is designed to make the data simple by showing you how tough the competition is for any given keyword. 4. [SEMRush](http://semrush.com) – paid – SEMRush is mostly an advertising platform, but that same data is used for SEO and marketing your website. SEMRush has some great keyword tools that you can use to dominate in your category. 5. the Amazon Search bar – free – If you go to [Amazon.com](https://www.amazon.com/) and type a product keyword, the auto-suggest feature will show you a gold mine of keywords that have commercial intent. 6. [KeywordsEverywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/) – free – This chrome addon will show you volume, CPC and competition scores for each keyword search you perform. 7. Quora – free – If you go to Quora and analyze the wording of the questions that people ask over and over, you can find keyword patterns to include in your next article. ## How to Use Keywords in your Blog Post or Article Have you ever read some text on a website that constantly repeats a single phrase over and over, awkwardly? “Best plumber, Iowa City” is put in every few lines. There are some things that you can do that don’t affect SEO, can make reading the text much more pleasant. In fact, this is often the hardest part about using keywords on your page. Many people end up hiring a professional writer to do the writing, just so they don’t have to try to figure it out. Here are a few things that you might know about or heard of that can make using keywords harder. Follow these guidelines and it’ll be much easier. **Stop Words** Stop words are common words that appear throughout a language. “A”, “an, “the”, and “and” are all very common in your language. In fact, “the” is the most commonly used word in the English language. For many years, “stop words” were just that. They were words that would stop Google from reading on. “Frank the Best Plumber in Iowa City” would only be read as Frank. Google has improved this over time. In fact, the Hummingbird upgrade on the Google algorithm was designed just for that. Today, you can use stop words in your keywords and your text. So “Best plumber, Iowa City” can be written as “the best plumber in Iowa City” [without losing SEO juice](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). **Punctuation** Another place that text on a web page can get strange is with punctuation. Google ignores most punctuation. So a phrase like, “Many people are looking for the best plumber. Iowa City has many qualified people, but Frank is the best,” will be read correctly by Google. **Use Keywords in your URL, Alt text, Headings, and Meta** These are all elements of your writing and your SEO. It’s best to keep the titles clean. Here are some other ways you can [improve your On-Page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). **Use LSI Keywords** Latent Semantic Index (LSI) Keywords simply refers to synonyms or variations of your main keyword. For example instead of repeating “best plumber in Iowa”, you could use “highest rated plumbing service in Iowa”. Not only this will help you rank for tons of related keywords (thanks to [Google’s Rankbrain algorithm](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/)) but will also make your text more readable. ## The GIANT SECRET about SEO and rankings Here’s the big secret. The one that’s at the heart of everything that Google is doing. This is worth millions of dollars in SEO work and data analysis. And it has to do with a very simple [white hat SEO strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). The simple secret is to [write great content](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/). That’s it. When you write content that is valuable (like this post!), people will spend a lot of time reading it, people will organically share it and all of this will boost your site to the top. ## What not to do (unless you want to piss off Google) ### **1\. Doing Keyword Stuffing** The biggest no-no for Google with keywords is ‘keyword stuffing.’, which means simply putting your keywords as often as possible in your text. From [Google:](https://support.google.com/webmasters/answer/66358?hl=en) *“Keyword stuffing” refers to the practice of loading a webpage with keywords or numbers in an attempt to manipulate a site’s ranking in Google search results. Often these keywords appear in a list or group, or out of context (not as natural prose). Filling pages with keywords or numbers results in a negative user experience, and can harm your site’s ranking. Focus on creating useful, information-rich content that uses keywords appropriately and in context.* *Examples of keyword stuffing include:* - *Lists of phone numbers without substantial added value* - Blocks of text listing cities and states a webpage is trying to rank for - Repeating the same words or phrases so often that it sounds unnatural, for example: - We sell custom cigar humidors. Our custom cigar humidors are handmade. If you’re thinking of buying a custom cigar humidor, please contact our custom cigar humidor specialists at custom.cigar.humidors@example.com.” Many, many websites, early on, used keyword stuffing to try to get Google’s attention. It worked, for about a year. Nonetheless, it’s not hard to look around today and still see websites with a bunch of keywords packed on a page. One of the biggest examples is lists of the towns that you work in. If you’re a plumber, you might work in 20 towns and cities. Many web designers will put a huge list of all the towns at the bottom of the page. That’s not only not going to get you the results you need, it’s likely to make the Google bot mark your site down. If you want to list the towns, create a nice, separate page for each town and list them on your site. Your developer can even make the pages invisible to people, but visible to Google. Keyword stuffing isn’t a positive way to get Google’s attention. It is considered a very bad blackhat technique ### **2\. Using Irrelevant Keywords** A plumber shouldn’t have a lot of references to football, the Super Bowl, Valentine’s day, and other things that have nothing to do with the business. The more focused and targeted your keywords, the better. ### **3\. Picking Keywords That Have No Traffic** Don’t make the mistake of working on keywords that don’t get any traffic. Very often, people will go with their instincts. Do the research that I talked about above. ### **4\. Placing All your Eggs in One Keyword** Making only one keyword the focus of your website is a huge mistake. So often people, especially ones who are specialists, will get too focused on a single keyword because they’re worried that they will get calls from people that want things that they don’t offer. It’s a good thing to say to people, “Sorry, I don’t do that, but let me refer to you to my friend,” rather than looking at a phone that never rings. ## Summary Of All Need to Know About Keywords I went over a lot in this post. Here’s a quick recap about keyword research: - You need to make sure that you do proper keyword research. Don’t skip this really important step in building a website or even posting a blog post. - If you are new, focus on keywords with lower competition. - Picking the right keywords is just half of the battle, the other half is [creating the best post ever](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/). - Write for real people. Don’t be too obsessed with how Google will interpret your post. Write so that real people will want to read it. This will [generate you tons of business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). - Don’t make the blackhat mistakes above, especially keyword stuffing. - No matter what happens, put up the best website and content that you can. Here are some of the [best website builders](https://www.b12.io/resource-center/website-design/how-to-choose-the-best-website-builder-in-2020.html) that can help you with both. If you enjoyed this post and have found new ideas to find keywords, please share it with a friend and drop a comment below. I read them all. (And additional benefit of dropping a comment is that you can build a very quick and easy backlink to your site) Be sure to also check out: 1. My collection of [best articles about SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) 2. [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) (Intro for beginners all the way to advanced)   3. How to do [white hat SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) and be a nice guy in Google’s eye ## How keyword research works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The way people query an LLM is different from how they query Google. A Google query is usually 2-5 words; an LLM prompt is usually 10-30 words and conversational. So the keyword universe widens — head terms still matter, but you also need to track the longer, conversational variants people actually type into ChatGPT and Perplexity. The simplest way to research these prompts: open the engine, type the head term, and read the autosuggest dropdown plus the related-questions panel. Perplexity exposes the questions it gets asked alongside an answer; ChatGPT shows suggested follow-ups; Google AI Overviews surfaces ‘People also ask’ alongside the AI answer. Those three sources, run weekly, give you a richer keyword pool than any traditional tool. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for keyword research 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [keyword clustering](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-keyword-clustering/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/). ## FAQ — keyword research in the AI search era ### How do I find keywords for AI engines? Mine the engines themselves. Type your head term into ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews; record the autosuggest, the follow-up suggestions, and the cited sources. Cross-reference with classic Search Console queries. Long-tail conversational variants are where the AI-search opportunity sits. ### Are long-tail keywords still relevant in the AI search era? More relevant, not less. AI engines pull answers from pages that match the literal phrasing of the prompt. A 25-word conversational prompt is the long-tail keyword of 2026. The pages that win are the ones whose H2s and FAQ entries match the literal question. ### What tools track AI Overview / Perplexity / ChatGPT visibility? Profound, Athena, and a few rank-tracker plugins for Ahrefs/SEMrush now expose AI-Overview presence. For Perplexity and ChatGPT, the tooling is still maturing — the most reliable signal in 2026 is still manual sampling of the engines on a weekly basis. Pick 50 head terms, run them through each engine, log the citations. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Do Local SEO: Top Tips, Strategies, And Tools 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Local SEO — Google Business Profile, local citations, location-specific landing pages, reviews — still moves the needle for local businesses in 2026. AI search adds two new surfaces: AI Overview’s local pack and Perplexity/ChatGPT location-aware queries. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Local SEO — Google Business Profile, local citations, location-specific landing pages, reviews — still moves the needle for local businesses in 2026. AI search adds two new surfaces: AI Overview’s local pack and Perplexity/ChatGPT location-aware queries. The local fundamentals below still apply; the GEO section adds the AI-engine angle. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* I am positive that everybody who has some type of online content to show to their customers has heard about SEO before. In this day and age, SEO is something that you absolutely have to know plenty about especially if you are [writing SEO articles](https://flux.la/how-to-write-seo-articles/).  It is the practice of increasing the number of people that come to your website, but also the quality of those visits. SEO is great for brand exposure and customer engagement. The most important thing to understand about SEO is that the focus is on the people and what they are searching for. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/0UokwKJmw36wGmfSdKqpwA9KyFztUxmVNt4bVc_rzjIA4MXqLE_mDEqoopBpw2PZE-XnzIe3KZkoieGEV2NEfePkbmXKsO1n_kMA2xjNL-tZaE5Oa55maHBD_445rGQdDp7G6YQW) Once you understand what your target audience might search for, you can optimize your own content to fit those standards. But since most of the companies are focusing on [SEO and how to serve their customers](https://flux.la/seo/) the best, it can get quite competitive. You need to invest high efforts in order to be able to rank well among your competitors. ## Why is Local SEO Important? If you are in need of a pharmacy right now, you would probably google something like “pharmacy near me” in order to get the pharmacies that are the closest to your location. That is very important. Local SEO promotes the visibility of your business based on location. So when people search for whatever it is that you’re offering them, they would find your business in their vicinity and become customers. Searches that include geolocation like city, country, zip code, or the near me searches—all come under this category. Having SEO that targets these needs of the business is very important especially if you have a business that provides something in a certain physical location. This can be a very big and amazing opportunity for your business to catch new customers and those that are merely passing by. According to [Social Media Today](https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/12-local-seo-stats-every-business-owner-and-marketer-should-know-in-2019-i/549079/), 75% of consumers that search for business actually end up visiting the stores within a five-mile radius. Almost 80% of those mobile searches end up with an in-store purchase. Looking at these statistics, you just can’t allow yourself to miss an opportunity of this caliber.  Relevant: [Read my in-depth Amazon SEO guide here](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/). ## What are the benefits? There are many benefits that could come from a good local SEO, and some of them are: 1. *It helps potential customers to discover your business*—many non-local people are the main source of searching for businesses near them and if you have a good SEO in place your business can reap the benefits of that. 2. *It helps your business to stand out*—you might not even have a website, but your business can stand out in local searches and thus lead to more traffic online to your store. 3. *It gives customers relevant information*—the customers want to know if you are pet-friendly or your working hours or do you offer free Wi-Fi. All the information can be available online attracting certain people. 4. *It can lead to a better business reputation*—a good local SEO can help drive people’s decisions towards your business. The better information they have, the bigger the trust they will build. And trust is always good for the brand’s reputation. 5. *It increases traffic to your page*—once people find out your business, increased traffic is guaranteed. Even more so in case, they visit your business and like it. There are many benefits as I previously mentioned, and you can get them yourself if you are interested. Also read my post on [top secret SEO tricks.](https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks/)  ## How to optimize your website for local SEO If you want to [start optimizing your business for local SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), you’d have to start with your webpage. Nowadays, it is extremely rare for a business to not have a webpage because of its extreme importance. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/m51pWUdH6q7tU7negcaaF5N9T8aFbmjHkiH4zT0fN2TYcOaNh3ayTSTdMUAfF6P6GtnchV6UANv6Xn184ou92PMziyCUKhRelehB21MY1MPBg0m9Mw5GiE64dPuUl-iZFn8JnDhP) However, having a webpage is not nearly enough. You have to spend a lot of effort making it perfect for good rankings. Let’s get into some tips and strategies on how you can optimize your webpage for local SEO. ### **1.**  **Web Page optimization** As I previously stated, the [webpage](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) is very important. It can tell a lot about your business and you need to be careful with how you communicate your business with customers. The webpage should be easy to look at, and it should be very clear. One glance at it and people should know what your business is, where it is located, and what you are offering. Optimizing the webpage in this way will make it easier for Google too to understand the basics of your business. ### **2.**  **Meta tags** There is no optimization without the proper [Meta tags](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). You have to pay attention to writing good page title tags, correct header tags, and proper Meta descriptions. Whether or not Meta tags help your rankings is debatable among many people, but they unmistakably play an important role in making a good first impression to your visitors. For local SEO, include local tags such as the name of the city your business is in. This will be a huge help in letting Google know where your business is offering its products or services. ### **3.**  **Make a clear sitemap** One of the biggest mistakes that businesses do in this context is trying to cram all their offerings on one or two web pages. This is not helpful for local SEO at all. Instead, you should create a separate page for every service or product that you’re offering and that should be clear enough so when people are searching for that particular thing, your page comes up. Painting a clear sitemap with categories and subcategories can be really helpful.  Another thing is if you have multiple locations where you’re offering your business, make a separate page for all of them. You can’t come up on search results in New York if you’re only mentioning your Los Angeles location, right? ### **4.**  **Implement SEO practices throughout the whole website** Pretty logical, huh? If you don’t work on normal SEO optimization to everything that can be found on your website, it won’t be good enough for local SEO. Make sure that you’re offering a good content that is search engine optimized itself. Better content strategy, better blog posts, a better relationship with your visitors all mean better profit. ## Local SEO Strategies ### Local Content Creation Writing content that applies to the general public is good and can attract many people from all over the world, but if you want to do some local SEO you have to focus on creating some localized content. Try producing top-notch content for the local industry or the local audience’s wishes and needs. Depending on what your business is, write about local events, gatherings, industry news in the local area, and other educational content that might help the local people. Try to be specific and to talk to the local people only. For example, if your business is selling outdoor clothing, try to write about the weather in the upcoming period in your city and the vicinity where people usually go to do some sports, etc.  [Relevant: Learn about impactful content marketing here](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) ### Create and optimize your Google My Business account GMB is getting very relevant when it comes to local SEO. Google is the largest search engine as we all know, and it makes sense that the Google directory is the most important out of them all. If you optimize your GMB you can achieve increased visibility especially when it comes to local searches. The best thing is that applying for it is not too hard of a process. All you need to do is the following: 1. Go to Google My Business 2. Sign in to your Google business account (or create a new one if you don’t have one) 3. Enter the address, specify the location on a map, add other information. If you don’t have a physical store for your business but operate in a certain area, you can list the area only. 4. Choose whether your business location will appear on Google Maps 5.  Select a business category 6. Add a phone number, website, other contact information 7. Select the verification option After this, the verification process can begin. According to Google, verified businesses are twice as likely to be considered reputable by customers. The verification process can be done via a verification postcard or in some cases phone call, text, email or Google Search Console. Normally, the postcard is a usual verification process. What happens is Google sends a postcard with a verification code to the address of the business that you’re trying to verify. It takes a few weeks to receive the postcard depending on where your business is located. The unique verification code needs to be entered in the GMB account to confirm. Once you verify your business, it might take a few days until you can actually see the GMB option in Google, so be patient. In the meantime, make sure that all the information you’re providing is correct and try to add as many details as possible. Customers want to know as much as possible with that one local search on Google. Don’t be afraid to add even the tiniest data like for example your business being pet-friendly, or having free Wi-Fi, etc. Add photos and videos from inside the business, outside in front of the business making it easier for people to know what they’re looking for. Once you’ve done a great job at preparing all of this, use the GMB to your advantage and connect to your customers more. Share offers, products, news, events, use the Q&A feature, reply to reviews, etc. ### Get listed in other directories Business directories are a very important thing when it comes to increasing online visibility. You have to think of all the different customers that you have and all the different business directories they trust, so you ought to have as many of them as you can. Business directories are usually giving basic info about your business, contact details and reviews by the customers. Other than [Google My Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/rank-and-rent/) which I already discussed, there are hundreds of other directories out there where you can create a profile. The more business directories your business is on, the higher the visibility that your business has. It’s logical. Other than Google, you should first start with Yelp, Yahoo, and Foursquare. These are the most used ones, but there are many others that you can choose to have.   And of course, you don’t have to have them all just those that make the most sense for you and your business.![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/doYExcS4ttQkXeh7i5SmSaQqHpNcBOwR0JDy4qYeCi9D-nboamm5EW92L2-mhipy0emJGRBYonvETmax8t61EKyX7dYDb9S0DeubHgH9yhOftu4d61B-fP0dFgX_PeD54fDpPOsZ) ### Consistency and updating Once you have made all the directories, you absolutely have to make sure that they are all consistent meaning they offer the same information. This is not only good for SEO and local SEO purposes, but it is also very important for your brand and customer trust.   Be aware of having duplicate listings since those can make confusion among your customers and make things worse than having none at all. Another thing you should focus on is updating the info in all directories. If you are too busy to do this, then it’s better to disregard the directories than to offer faulty information to your customers. A better idea would be having one or two main directories that you will update and work on all the time instead of having them all and leaving them like that forever. The contact info should always have NAP: name, address, phone number displayed. A good idea is to use a master directory listing that will make it easier for you to keep all your directories updated and in check. Another possibility to keep track of your directories is the good old spreadsheet document where you would keep info on which directories are updated and which should be. Another thing that should be consistent through all of the directories is the brand and the logo. If you are using an old logo on one directory and a new one of another it can cause confusion about your brand. ### Mobile-friendly website Most of the local searches are done on mobile devices, and this makes sense. If you are somewhere in a new place and you want to find the best restaurant near you, you’d just take your phone out and google that. Also in general, people are using their phones more often these days instead of pc. This puts extra pressure on webpages to be extremely mobile-friendly and optimized for local SEO and general SEO as well. Some ways you can do that are: 1. Make sure that your website loads very quickly- up to two seconds 2.  Use clear fonts that are easy to read 3. Use design and images to make your content more interesting, but only for the very necessary information 4. Have an amazing UI for good UX of the visitors ### Add Local Keywords Keywords are important and you should add the ones relevant to your industry and the target audience. However, you should also insert keywords that are relevant to the local customers if you want your content to rank well on a local level. There are many keyword searches where you can filter the keywords by a location so you can have an idea of what is the most relevant in your community. Once you did your research and have the local keywords, make sure to insert them not only in the content but in the meta tags, URL’s, etc. Another great tip is to include local attractions in your content or place that your city is known for. ### Pay attention to voice search Another trend that is on the rise is [voice search](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/). It can be a convenient option when you’re busy typing or it’s not a safe thing. So, you need to explore this opportunity as well when it comes to local SEO. There is one problem with this. It is different from typing SEO because when people tend to use voice search they do it in a different manner than while typing. Usually, people will talk more lengthy sentences where the words are much more naturally connected. A good strategy around this might be to cover the basic questions starting with the common question words like what, who, where, when, why and how. This way, you are likely to more or less cover your basis. ## Local SEO Tools If you are wondering what type of [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) can assist you in your local SEO fight, then I have some suggestions for you: 1. *Whitespark Local Citation Finder*— is a local listing management tool that might be a good investment for your business. You can also find your next business listings on the tool that improves your local SEO rankings. There are lots of additional features like monitoring local searches, collecting reviews, discovering link opportunities, and more. The prices start from around $17/month. 2. *Screaming Frog*—is a desktop program that can crawl the website’s likes, apps, images, scripts, etc. It can be extremely helpful in letting you know if you have some errors, missing meta tags, etc. There is a free trial of 500 URL’s and after that, the unlimited version costs $200/year. 3. *SEOProfiler*—is one of the most powerful and expensive local SEO tools with lots of features like website page optimization, identifying local keywords, finding out bad backlinks and much more. It is a very helpful tool and for that reason, it can cost from around $50/month to $1000/month depending on what features you need. 4. *SEOPressor*—is a tool that gives a score for your overall SEO strength on the webpage. It also gives bits of advice and recommendations for improvement which can also benefit your local SEO. One feature that is very successful is notifying you of any pages that have to be optimized in special ways. 5.  *Moz Local*—it is a tool that will make sure your business listing is verified by Google and Facebook and distribute those listings accordingly through the web world. Moreover, the tool can help your business gain visibility. It costs anywhere from $99 to $179 per year, so it’s more affordable than many of these tools. 6. *Synup*—is useful for the NAP information for the local directories and allows you to manage your listings. You can also review then and analyze them. It is one of the best and most comprehensive tools for this area and the price is $25 per month which is not so much for such an effective tool. 7.  *BuzzStream*—an amazing tool for earning local backlinks. It will help you to identify and build relationships with local people that will help your traffic and awareness. Additionally, the tool is effective in content promotion and PR. The prices start from $24/month and can go up to $1000/month. 8.  [*Ahrefs*](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/)—is a tool that helps with backlink checking and competitor analysis, keyword research, and other features. It is quite effective in that, and the price starts at $99/month up to $179/month. ## Bottom line To sum it up, local SEO is a very important part of the overall SEO that you do for your business. You should not avoid working on it, and you should invest in research, time, and/or necessary tools to make sure that your local SEO is on point. Implementing just some of these pieces of advice can go a long way in creating brand awareness and customer trust among your local target audience. Drop a comment below and let me know which SEO tips would you like me to cover in my next post. If you found this article helpful and want more advice on SEO, check these links: - [Best SEO Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [On-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [Off-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) ## How local SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When a user asks Google AI Overviews ‘best near me,’ the engine pulls from the same local-pack pool as classic local search, but with an additional weight on review content depth and recent activity. Local businesses with a steady stream of detailed reviews (not just star ratings) get cited more often than businesses with sparse review text, even at equal star averages. Perplexity and ChatGPT location-aware queries cite a mix of GBP listings, local review sites (Yelp, Tripadvisor), and the business’s own site. Local businesses that maintain a service-area landing page with FAQ schema get cited disproportionately often by Perplexity for service-discovery queries. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for local SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — local SEO in the AI search era ### Do AI engines have local-pack equivalents? Yes — Google AI Overviews surface local results for location-aware queries, with a similar set of inputs (proximity, prominence, relevance) plus AI-evaluated review content depth. ### Should local businesses add FAQ content to their site? Yes — service-FAQ pages (pricing, hours, scheduling, what to expect) get cited frequently by AI engines for location-aware service queries. ### How important is the volume of reviews vs the depth in 2026? Both matter. Volume still drives local-pack inclusion; depth (longer review text mentioning specific services) drives AI-engine citations. Optimizing for both is reachable. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Mastering SEO Competitor Analysis: Strategies For Success Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/mastering-seo-competitor-analysis/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Competitor analysis — figuring out what’s working for the sites ranking ahead of you and where they’re vulnerable — is still the highest-ROI SEO research activity in 2026. What’s new is the AI-search dimension: which competitors are getting cited in AI engines, what their citation footprint looks like, and how to identify their GEO gaps. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Competitor analysis — figuring out what’s working for the sites ranking ahead of you and where they’re vulnerable — is still the highest-ROI SEO research activity in 2026. What’s new is the AI-search dimension: which competitors are getting cited in AI engines, what their citation footprint looks like, and how to identify their GEO gaps. The post below covers classic competitor analysis; the GEO section covers AI-engine-specific competitive intelligence. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line SEO competitor analysis is not just a tool; it’s your compass to effectively navigate the best digital landscape. By understanding your competitors, you are not merely watching the competition but also dissecting strategies, deciphering tactics, and learning from their successes and failures. Your competitors are your fellow racers in the grand race for online supremacy. You can be a passive spectator or put on your SEO strategist hat, step onto the track, and confidently navigate the twists and turns. Armed with the knowledge gained through SEO competitor analysis, you can leave your competitors in the dust and emerge as the frontrunner. In the digital world, where the battle for online supremacy rages, search engine optimization or SEO has become the secret weapon for businesses aiming to conquer the virtual realm. But here’s the catch: your competitors are also in the game, vying for the top spot on search engine results pages (SERPs). So, how do you outshine them? The answer lies in performing SEO competitor analysis. Picture this: you’re a race car driver about to enter the track. To win, you must know everything about your opponents, such as their strengths, weaknesses, and strategies. SEO competitor analysis is your pit stop where you equip yourself with the knowledge needed to accelerate past the competition. In this article, I will help you understand the art of SEO competitor analysis, providing the tools and tactics to race ahead in the online race. ## What is an SEO Competitor Analysis? An SEO competitor analysis systematically researches and evaluates websites’ online presence, strategies, and performance. These websites compete for similar keywords and target audiences in [search engine rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-you-should-know-about-google-top-ranking-factors/). With billions of websites on the internet, a staggering [90.63% of content](https://ahrefs.com/blog/search-traffic-study/) in the World Wide Web does not receive traffic from Google. And there’s a high possibility that your website content is included in this number. So if your website does not receive any traffic, where does this traffic go, or which websites often receive it? It’s definitely to your competitor websites or those with similar content and using similar keywords as yours. By learning SEO competitor analysis, you can study your competitors to gain insights into the following parameters: - SEO tactics - Content strategies - Backlink profiles - Overall digital marketing efforts SEO competitor analysis aims to identify opportunities, weaknesses, and areas where you can outperform your rivals in [search engine optimization](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2023/09/15/how-to-optimize-your-business-website-for-core-web-vitals-improving-user-experience-and-seo/). This process will ultimately improve your website’s rankings and visibility in SERPs. ## Importance of SEO Competitor Analysis Before I share the steps or the nitty-gritty aspect of SEO competitor analysis, you must understand why learning this strategy is crucial. ### Benchmarking SEO competitor analysis helps you gauge where you stand in the competitive landscape. Are you leading the pack or lagging? Analyzing your competitors can provide a benchmark for your SEO efforts. ### Identifying Opportunities Competitor analysis reveals untapped keyword opportunities, [content gaps](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-content-gap-analysis-and-how-to-do-it/), and emerging trends. This process is a goldmine for ideas to improve your SEO strategy. ### Learning from the Best You can learn from your competitors’ successes and mistakes. If a competitor is ranking well, there’s a reason. That’s why you should discover and adapt their strategies to your advantage. ### Staying Ahead In the ever-evolving world of SEO, staying ahead is paramount. Monitoring your competitors ensures you are not caught off guard by sudden changes in the digital landscape. ## Steps on Performing SEO Competitor Analysis Now that you have established the importance of SEO competitor analysis, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. ### Step 1: Identify Your SEO Competitors To get started, you first need to figure out who your SEO competitors are. These websites are in the same race as you, trying to grab people’s attention using the same keywords. Begin with a straightforward Google search using the keywords that most matter to you. Take note of the websites that consistently appear on the first page of search results. These are the big players in your competition. Use handy SEO tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Moz. These tools will give you a list of websites also gunning for the same keywords as you. They’re your competition, too. If you’re already pretty knowledgeable about your industry, you might already have some competitors in mind. Don’t forget to include them in your list as well. Doing this gives you a clear picture of who you’re up against in the SEO game. ### Step 2: Analyze Your Competitor’s Keywords Keywords are the building blocks of SEO. To outrank your competitors, you must know which keywords they target. Here’s how to uncover their keyword strategies: #### Keyword Research Tools Your arsenal for this journey includes powerful [keyword research tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-features-to-look-for-in-keyword-research-tools/) such as: - SEMrush - Ahrefs - Moz - Google Keyword Planner Enter your competitors’ URLs or specific keywords they target into these tools to unearth a treasure trove of keyword insights. Also, discover the specific keywords your competitors are targeting. These tools reveal the keywords and essential metrics like search volume, keyword difficulty, and cost per click (CPC) for paid advertising. Additionally, you can explore more about long-tail keywords. Often, competitors may overlook these gems. With their lower competition and high specificity, long-tail keywords can open doors to niche audiences. #### Content Analysis Explore their content. Are there specific keywords they use consistently, or are there gaps in their content that you can exploit? #### Long-Tail Keywords Don’t forget to look for long-tail keywords. These are often less competitive and can drive targeted traffic to your site. ### Step 3: Analyze Their Content Content is king in the SEO realm. Analyzing your competitors’ content can provide insights into what’s working and what’s not. #### Content Quality Assess the quality of their content. Is it well-researched and informative, or does it engage the audience effectively? #### Articles or Content-Length Check the length of their articles if they are longer since these content are more comprehensive and often rank better. So, can your content team create a more in-depth content on similar topics? #### Content Format Pay attention to the format of their content. Are they using videos, infographics, or interactive elements? Try experimenting with different formats to help your content stand out from your competitors. ### Step 4: Evaluate Their Backlink Profile Backlinks are a critical factor in SEO. By analyzing your competitor’s backlink profiles, you can uncover valuable opportunities. Here’s how: #### Backlink Analysis Tools Use tools such as Ahrefs to discover which websites link to your competitors. These tools will help you pinpoint high-quality websites that you can contact to request backlinks. #### Anchor Text Analyze the anchor text used in backlinks so you can provide insights into the keywords your competitors are targeting. #### Link Building Strategies Try to discern your competitor’s link-building strategy. Are they guest posting, earning natural links, or using other tactics? ### Step 5: Assess Their On-Page SEO On-page SEO elements play a significant role in ranking. Here’s how to assess your competitor’s on-page SEO: - **Title Tags and Meta Descriptions:** Examine their title tags and meta descriptions. Are they optimized for relevant keywords, and can you craft more compelling ones you can use for your content? - **URL Structure:** Check their URL structure to see if they use descriptive URLs that include keywords. - **Header Tags:** Look at their use of header tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.). Are they effectively structuring their content? ### Step 6: Monitor Their Social Media Presence Social signals can indirectly impact SEO. Analyzing your competitors’ social media presence can provide insights into audience engagement. - **Social Media Platforms:** Identify which social media platforms your competitors are active on. Are they getting significant engagement? - **Content Sharing:** Analyze the type of content they share on social media. Are there patterns or themes that resonate with their audience? - **Follower Growth:** Track their follower growth over time. Are they experiencing steady growth, or are there spikes indicating successful campaigns? ### Step 7: Stay Updated Keep an eye on what your competitors are up to and adjust your plan as needed. Tools like Google Alerts can be handy for tracking when your competitors are mentioned online. By taking this step, you’ll be in the loop about their most recent happenings. Additionally, regularly check how your competitors are doing in terms of their rankings for important keywords. If you see any significant shifts, digging deeper and figuring out why they’re happening is a good idea. Then, you can make the necessary changes to improve your website. Lastly, consider attending industry conferences and webinars. These events are great for learning about your field’s latest trends and strategies, which can boost your website’s rankings. ## When Should You Conduct an SEO Competitor Analysis? Conducting an SEO competitor analysis is not a one-time task but an ongoing process that should be integrated into your overall SEO strategy. Here are some key occasions and situations when you should conduct an SEO competitor analysis: ### 1\. Launching a New Website or Campaign Before launching a new website or [SEO marketing campaign](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/09/13/embracing-the-power-of-seo-and-marketing/), it’s essential to understand the competitive landscape. Identifying your competitors and their strategies can help you set realistic goals and create an effective SEO strategy. ### 2\. Regularly Scheduled Reviews Make competitor analysis a regular part of your SEO routine. Quarterly or semi-annual reviews can help you stay updated on changes in the competitive landscape and adjust your strategy accordingly. ### 3\. Rankings Fluctuate If you notice significant fluctuations in your search engine rankings, it’s a good time to analyze your competitors. Changes in their strategies or rankings may be influencing your performance. ### 4\. Expanding into New Markets Are you planning to expand your business into new geographic regions or target new demographics? Conducting a competitor analysis specific to those areas first can be invaluable. ### 5\. Major Content Updates Before creating new content or updating existing pages, check what your competitors do in that area. This process can help you create more relevant and competitive content. ### 6\. Algorithm Updates Major search engine algorithm updates can significantly impact rankings. Analyzing how your competitors are affected and adapting your strategy can mitigate potential negative impacts. ### 7\. Setting SEO Goals When setting specific SEO goals, such as achieving higher rankings for specific keywords or increasing organic traffic, competitor analysis can provide benchmarks and insights into achieving those goals. ### 8\. Marketing Campaigns If you are running marketing campaigns, such as seasonal promotions or product launches, conducting competitor analysis can help you fine-tune your SEO efforts to maximize visibility during these crucial periods. ### 9\. Response to New Competitors You will always have new competitors emerging in your niche or industry. That’s why assessing their strategies and potential impact on your rankings and traffic is vital. ## Master SEO Competitor Analysis SEO competitor analysis is your gateway to understanding your rivals, uncovering opportunities, and propelling your website to new heights on SERPs. By following the steps outlined in this guide and staying vigilant, you can gain a competitive edge crucial in the ever-evolving world of SEO. Remember, the race to the top of the search results is not a sprint but a marathon. Consistent analysis and adaptation will be your allies on this journey. So, out on your SEO strategist hat, keep your competitors in your rearview mirror, and race toward SEO success. The podium is waiting for you. If you need more help with SEO, read more of my articles here so you can further navigate in this competitive industry: - [How Does SEO Improve Marketing On The Global Scale](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/) - [How To Conduct A Technical SEO Audit In 2023: A Step By Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2023 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ## How SEO competitor analysis works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The classic competitor analysis question — ‘why are they ranking and I’m not?’ — has a 2026 sibling: ‘why are they being cited in AI Overviews and I’m not?’ The answer is usually structural (they have a TL;DR, FAQ, and schema; you don’t), or topical (they cover the topic more comprehensively). Both are addressable with content work. Practical AI-search competitive analysis: pick your top 30 head terms, query each in Google AI Overviews and Perplexity, log which competitors are cited and on which queries. The competitors cited most often are your AI-search peers; the ones cited rarely are vulnerable. Reverse-engineer what the cited ones are doing structurally, then do it better. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for SEO competitor analysis 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). ## FAQ — SEO competitor analysis in the AI search era ### How often should I run AI-search competitor analysis? Monthly is enough for most sites. Quarterly for slow-moving niches. The citation landscape is more stable than you’d expect — the same sources tend to get cited consistently. ### Are there tools for AI-search competitor analysis in 2026? Profound and Athena are the leaders in 2026 for tracking AI-engine citations across competitors. Ahrefs and SEMrush have added basic AI-Overview tracking; deeper Perplexity/ChatGPT analysis is mostly the specialized tools. ### Should I copy competitor structure for AI search? Adopt the patterns (TL;DR, FAQ, schema) — those are universal. Don’t copy the specific TL;DR sentences or FAQ content; those should be original to your site’s voice and angle. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Mobile SEO Mistakes You Need To Avoid Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/mobile-seo-mistakes/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Mobile-first indexing has been Google’s default since 2019; in 2026 it’s just ‘indexing. Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Mobile-first indexing has been Google’s default since 2019; in 2026 it’s just ‘indexing.’ The mobile-specific mistakes in this post are still worth avoiding. The GEO section adds what mobile means for AI search — most AI-engine queries originate on mobile, and the structural moves that win AI citations are slightly different on mobile than on desktop. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* Mobile is king. It has been since it surpassed desktop in 2016 as the platform of choice for accessing the Internet. Nowadays, more and more people are using their tablets and mobile phones to check their emails, update their social media accounts, and of course, browse websites. This fact is not lost on SEOs who want nothing more than to see their sites [perform better in search engine results pages](https://www.mybizniche.com/phoenix-seo-agency/) (SERPs). Recognizing that mobile traffic can help them get there, SEOs all over the world are now tweaking their optimization strategies to accommodate mobile users. However, SEOs continue to make mobile SEO mistakes that cost them a considerable amount of traffic, which, in turn, take a toll on their site’s rankings. Here are some of those mobile SEO mistakes that everyone should avoid. ### **Slow-loading pages** Internet users are an impatient lot. Mobile Internet users even more so. That’s the whole point of mobile after all: You get to surf the net while on the go. So if the mobile version of your website takes forever (read: 10 seconds or more) to load, you can kiss that particular visit goodbye as the user will simply move on to another website. There are many reasons your site is slow on mobile. Your images may not be optimized for mobile, or there’s too much JavaScript and CSS coding. If you want to give mobile users the instant gratification that all of them want, then you have to look for ways to make your mobile website load faster. ### **Tiny fonts** A mobile device is already small enough as it is. Making the fonts for the body text of your mobile website just as small would be a great disservice to your visitors. Tiny fonts make your content near-impossible to consume. To make sure your mobile readers won’t squint when they drop by your website, make your fonts at least 16px in size. While we’re on the subject of fonts, don’t overdo the fonts for your headers, or they’ll be filling the entire screen of a user’s mobile device. ### **Tiny CTAs** Calls-to-action are supposed to be prominent to grab attention. So why are there mobile websites with CTA buttons so small you have to expand the screen just so your finger won’t tap them all at the same time? For mobile devices, the ideal size of a CTA button should be as wide as your device’s screen. With a CTA button that big, a conversion will be in the bag with just one click. ### **Too many ads** There is nothing more irritating for a mobile user than to accidentally click on an ad while trying to scroll through your content. While the need to generate revenue is understandable, cramming a lot of ads into a small mobile screen is a surefire way of ruining the user experience. An ad overload can also slow down the site. If you have to have ads on your pages, then you need to make sure there aren’t too many of them. ### **Overly intrusive interstitials** Interstitials have their use. They’re good for confirming a user’s age or even for some certain calls-to-action. However, when they cover the entire mobile screen for, of all things, an ad, they become so intrusive that users typically abandon the website out of sheer annoyance. To avoid being dropped like a hot potato, your website should only feature interstitials that only cover a small area of the display. ### **Unplayable content** Considering how mobile users outnumber desktop users, the former should have access to everything a website offers. Yet far too many videos remain desktop-only. Worse, some mobile sites display a popup telling users they can’t view the video on their device. If you’re serious about getting a share of that mobile market, you have to make sure your website is free of any unplayable content. ### **Not conducting a test** If you launched your mobile website [without doing any kind of testing on it](https://flux.la/how-to-ab-test), then don’t be surprised if users encounter errors. It’s always prudent to hold off making your mobile website go live without knowing first if all the forms function perfectly, or if all tags are properly set, or if the pages load fast or slow. Testing is crucial to the success of your mobile website, so don’t skip it, even if you think it’s just a waste of time and effort. ### **You did traditional keyword research** [Keyword research is essential to SEO work](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/). However, if you’re doing SEO for mobile, traditional keyword research may not be the way to go. You see, unlike desktop users who type their searches with a full-sized keyboard, mobile users type queries with two thumbs. That makes them prone to typos, making them more likely to type shorter queries. Then there’s the option of speaking their queries. To optimize for mobile, your keyword strategy should revolve around coming up with conversational phrases or shorter terms. It would also help if you can imagine what people would likely say when looking for websites in your niche. ### **Ho-hum content** Your mobile website could have supersonic loading speed, perfectly-sized fonts, and playable content, but if the words and images that make up that content are dull and pretty much uninspiring, you might as well get out of the mobile game. You must assume that most mobile users are incredibly busy people. They would always want the content they’re consuming on the go to offer them value that’s unique and significant. If they have any questions and they fall under the scope of your niche, your website should be able to provide the answers quickly. If your content is awesome and incredibly actionable, then you get the chance to build brand loyalty among mobile users, and that is always a good thing. Mobile Internet use is here to stay, and the number of users will only continue to grow in the coming years. You know you’ll be missing out on a lot if you continue making the above mobile SEO mistakes. Then again, you will always be better off than those who don’t do any kind of SEO for mobile. ## How mobile SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) On mobile, the AI Overview takes up much more of the visible screen than it does on desktop — often the entire above-the-fold area. This means the AI Overview citation is, for many queries, the only thing the user sees before deciding whether to scroll. Being cited in the AI Overview block is even more valuable on mobile than on desktop. Mobile-specific structural moves for AI search: keep the TL;DR block under 4 sentences (long TL;DRs get truncated in AI Overview previews on mobile), use short paragraphs in the FAQ section (mobile-screen-friendly), and ensure your schema validates on mobile renders (some plugins serve different schema on mobile vs desktop). ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for mobile SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — mobile SEO in the AI search era ### Are AI Overviews more prominent on mobile or desktop? Mobile, dramatically. On a phone the AI Overview occupies most of the visible screen; on desktop it’s a single block among others. ### Do mobile and desktop AI Overview citations differ? Mostly the same sources, but the order and snippet length can vary. The deep variance is between users (personalization) more than between devices. ### Should I optimize separately for mobile AI search? Not separately — the structural moves are the same. Just make sure your TL;DR is short enough to not truncate, and your FAQ uses mobile-friendly paragraph lengths. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## 5 Must-Try Content Marketing Trends To Boost Your Traffic In 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: The content marketing trends below — long-form, video, original research, repurposing — are still active in 2026. The dominant trend that wasn’t on the radar when this list was first written: AI-search-driven content (TL;DRs, FAQs, schema, llms. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The content marketing trends below — long-form, video, original research, repurposing — are still active in 2026. The dominant trend that wasn’t on the radar when this list was first written: AI-search-driven content (TL;DRs, FAQs, schema, llms.txt). The GEO section adds it. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line It truly is difficult to compete in the content marketing market as more and more businesses are doing amazing efforts. However, it is not impossible. The first thing is to offer your readers content that brings value. Offer answers to relevant questions that your customers have. Lately, live-streaming and video content are things that are piquing the interest of the customers. It’s a more entertaining way of presenting the information. Another important field that marketers should focus on is AI. Data analysis and determining the patterns of the customers are extremely important. Knowing the user intent is the way to a more profitable future and creating loyal customers. Also, smart assistants are rapidly becoming more used, so searches via voice commands can be a good content strategy for businesses. In that direction, VR, AR, and chatbots can be used to offer extremely personalized content without the extra work of doing all of that manually. The [content marketing](https://authorityland.com/) sphere is fiercely competitive in an already-saturated market, but this doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to compete. Even when the competition is fierce, businesses can carve their own space in the market, especially in an environment where the rules shift as frequently as the [digital marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) industry. The dynamic nature of the digital marketing sphere is a double-edged sword as it can be both advantageous and disadvantageous. It can be disadvantageous to those who are already doing well because the techniques and strategies that they are currently using may not always be as effective. On the other hand, this is advantageous to those who are trying to get into the top spot because it ensures that no single competitor can monopolize the industry by employing the same tactics forever. A new year is here, and so is a new opportunity. How will you make the most of it? ## 1\. **Results-Focused Content** The harsh reality about content is that readers aren’t going to be interested in your content unless they get something out of it, whether it’s in entertainment or information value. With this in mind, it’s important to know what your customers are looking for when they visit your website. This usually means that you need to be able to provide complete answers to queries. If you want to increase web traffic, [building links with guest blogging](https://loganix.com/guest-post-service/) is a great way to start, especially if you’re able to work with businesses that have a good reputation. ## 2\. **Live-Streaming And Video Content** Another upcoming trend comes in the form of live content. What makes live-streaming so popular is that it provides content creators with an opportunity to [engage with their audience in real-time](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). This allows them to answer any questions that may arise and it also helps create a more conversational interaction with your audience through real-time viewer comments as well as post-session feedback polls. The latter is also a great way to determine what direction your customers would want you to take, whether it’s in what features they want to see added to a certain product, or in what suggestions they might have regarding other concerns. What makes [video content](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) and live-streaming so potent is that they’re tools that can provide both information and entertainment. After all, entertaining content is much easier to absorb because people are actually enjoying the content and the medium it is being transmitted on. ## 3\. **User Intent** A major effect that [artificial intelligence](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) is going to have on SEO is that it will be able to analyze user patterns to determine user intent. This helps Google direct users to websites that AI believes are relevant to the search and the searcher. This change is going to be very beneficial for websites that contain complete information and a clear call to action. It will also give businesses an opportunity to put content on their websites that accurately defines themselves and their products and services. The important thing to note here is that by determining user intent, businesses will have an easier time providing the right content on their website, which can increase Google rankings. While we may never know the exact metrics that Google uses to rank pages, we do know that they want to provide the best possible user experience for searchers. Instead of shooting in the dark, businesses will be able to use user intent to optimize their websites. ## **4\. Voice Search SEO** [Smart Assistants](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_assistant) are here to stay. They are rapidly becoming more and more popular in most modern homes and they will continue to see more use. These devices enable users to not only make [searches via voice command](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/), but also to make these searches in a more conversational tone. This means that businesses need to match the way that users are verbalizing their search queries by providing content that is much more natural-sounding. The importance of this lies in an SEO perspective because it’s what’s going to provide web content creators with the information needed to tailor their content in a way that speaks to [Google’s algorithm](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-algorithm-history/). ## 5\. **Personalized Content Through VR, AR, and Chatbots** Businesses are constantly trying to establish a much better relationship with their target audience. Message personalization is one of the most effective ways to do this because the message is able to show a recipient a good degree of acknowledgment. Unfortunately, as positive as this may be, the one thing that hinders most companies from sending out personalized communications is that it takes a lot of extra work. However, thanks to technologies like [virtual reality](https://www.marxentlabs.com/what-is-virtual-reality/) (VR), [augmented reality](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augmented_reality) (AR), and AI-powered chatbots, businesses are going to be able to automate the process or even create a new means of interaction that will help create a much more personalized experience for customers. ***Virtual Reality*** *– refers to visual-focused technology that is able to create an immersive virtual world for the user. The hardware required for a convincing virtual reality experience is expensive, which limits its use. However, despite being in its early stages of use, virtual reality holds a lot of potential in the marketing industry. For example: a home seller can use virtual reality to showcase a house’s features to their intended buyers, or a car manufacturing company can give a similar virtual tour to prospective buyers.* ***Augmented Reality*** *– refers to visual hardware that helps augment what a user is currently seeing. New information can be displayed along with current information to provide a more in depth understanding of what the user is looking at. This can be used in a manner similar to how virtual reality is used, except that the item can be physically present and the user is given free-rein to discover a product’s features. Better yet, augmented reality can be used to highlight the parts of a product that a company wants a prospective buyer to focus on. It is, in essence, a guided tour of a product, except that you’re holding the actual product.* *What’s great about both technologies is that they are also available on VR core-equipped smartphones, which means that the technologies have a good number of applications because they are available on consumer-grade devices that almost everyone has.* ***AI-Powered Chatbots*** *Unlike the two previous technologies, chatbots are rather commonplace by today’s standards. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing because this means that there is potent support behind the technology. However, that doesn’t mean that chatbots aren’t in need of improvements. This is especially true when most people are able to distinguish chatbots from actual customer representatives.* *The rationale behind the preference of real human beings over chatbots is that an actual person is going to be able to take your query into context and a person is going to be able to hold a much better conversation than a chatbot.* *With this in mind, it’s not necessarily the idea of talking to a machine that turns people off, but rather, the notion that they’re going to get better help from a human who can understand and relate to what the customer needs.* You can sign up for a chatbot on [Manychat](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/manychat/). However, with the help of artificial intelligence, a well-programmed chatbot is going to be able to communicate effectively with customers to a degree that it is indistinguishable from real humans. The most essential thing about AI-powered chatbots is that they can essentially enable companies to automate the bulk of [customer service](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-customer-base/) tasks, which will save the company valuable resources, including manpower. The true value of personalized content is that it creates a much more personal connection to the target audience, which in turn, gives a sense of value to the audience. ## 6\. Build Content Communities One of the biggest trends in the content marketing area in the last year has been building content communities. This is not surprising at all since from the start of the pandemic things have changed a lot both in communication and communities. Communication shifted online, and personalization has become a very big thing in marketing. In this context, building communities in the area of creating and sharing content can allow marketers to expand with minimal resources. The reason why this trend will grow even further is the fact that there are limited resources and high output demands, and the amount of content that marketers can produce with high-quality is limited. In the case of using such content communities, access to expert writers and engaging content creators will be open. Additionally, in a time where most of us feel socially distanced and crave feeling a part of a community, reaching out in such communities is very valuable for many people. ## Wrapping up! Understanding digital marketing trends not only ensures that you know what techniques will be the most effective in the coming year, but also ensures that you’re able to develop ways to properly integrate these methods into your marketing campaigns. Remember that knowledge is not only power, knowledge also translates eventually into profit. Therefore, the well-informed creators are the ones who are most likely to dominate the market space because they know which aspects of content marketing to dedicate their resources to. This, in turn, not only allows them to make effective marketing decisions, but also allows them to reserve resources that they can put to much better use in the near future for more important endeavors. Liked this post? Read these ones next - Only got $100 for marketing? [Here’s what to do](https://alejandrorioja.com/100-bucks-facebook-ad-budget/) - [How to boost your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) with some novels techniques Drop a comment to let me know what you’d like me to cover in my next post 🙂 ## How content marketing trends works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The single biggest 2026 trend in content marketing isn’t a new format — it’s a structural overlay on existing formats. Long-form posts get TL;DRs and FAQs. Videos get rich descriptions and transcripts. Podcasts get show-note FAQ blocks. The same content, restructured for AI-engine citation, is the trend that actually moved metrics for the brands paying attention this year. Where this matters most: brands that are good at content but slow to adopt structural changes are losing AI-search visibility to leaner competitors that adopted the GEO scaffold a year earlier. The organizational unlock is treating GEO as a structural-content responsibility, not as a separate AI-search team. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for content marketing trends 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [how I drive 250,000+ monthly visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/), [how to 10X your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/). ## FAQ — content marketing trends in the AI search era ### Is AI-generated content a 2026 content marketing trend? Yes but with a caveat — AI-assisted writing is now mainstream; pure AI-generated content (no human editing, no original perspective) is increasingly filtered by both Google’s helpful-content systems and AI engines themselves. Augmented, not replaced. ### Are short-form videos still a 2026 priority? Yes — short-form continues to drive top-of-funnel awareness. Less directly tied to AI-search citations than long-form text, but feeds discovery. ### What’s the most overrated content marketing trend in 2026? Hot-takes / personal-thought-leadership posts on LinkedIn. They drive engagement but rarely produce AI-engine citations because they lack the structured-answer format engines prefer. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## 9 Must-Have Off-Page SEO Factors: 2026 Checklist Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Off-page SEO — backlinks, brand mentions, social signals, third-party citations — still moves the needle for classic Google rankings in 2026. For AI-engine citations, the parallel currency is third-party mention volume in trusted sources (Wikipedia, news sites, established blogs). ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Off-page SEO — backlinks, brand mentions, social signals, third-party citations — still moves the needle for classic Google rankings in 2026. For AI-engine citations, the parallel currency is third-party mention volume in trusted sources (Wikipedia, news sites, established blogs). The 9 factors below still apply; the GEO section adds the AI-engine angle on each. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line If you want to drive massive organic traffic to your site, you need an effective off-page SEO strategy. If you are not sure where to being, a keen focus on these nine essential factors like the number of inbound links, the quality of those inbound links, the speed of building those links, number of Social shares, local SEO, citations, anchor text, domain age, and business reviews will help you get started. For all the [many fields of SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) that people have come up with over the years, there are only two major kinds of SEO: On-Page and Off Page. As the phrase suggests, On-Page SEO (also known as [on-site SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/)) focuses on making sure that all elements (such as content and h2 tags) within a website are geared towards making it attractive to both users and search engines. I explained this in more depth on [this post](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). Off-page SEO (or off-site SEO), on the other hand, is all about making an impact on your search engine results pages (SERPs) rankings by implementing measures outside of your own website and hoping they would stick as off-page SEO factors. While On-Page and Off-Page SEO are both important, many would agree that the key to the success of your [SEO efforts](https://www.seophoenix.net/phoenix-seo-agency/) would be the kind of Off-Page work that you do. If you want to know where you stand with your site’s SEO, sign up for my expert SEO audit session here: - [ ![Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy](/images/posts/inline/d9b2d700-seo-audit-1.png) Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) $9,500 Rated **4.89** out of 5 based on 9 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/17563?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent&add-to-cart=26553) Off-page SEO, after all, focuses almost exclusively on **building\*high quality\* links to your site**, and we all know that it’s these incoming links that help you get some real traffic that would get you to the top spots of search engines. As with on-page SEO, off-page SEO involves a lot of factors and understanding the essential ones will play a huge role in the success of your website. Let’s review the main off-page SEO areas you need to take a look at ## 1\. The number of inbound links The fact that Google puts a premium on the number of inbound links that a website has when establishing its authority makes it one of the most basic and essential off-page SEO factors. Think of an inbound link as a vote of confidence from somebody else for a particular page on your website. The more links point to your pages, the better your chances of getting noticed by Google and other search engines, which could then lead to improved visibility and ranking there. ## 2\. The quality of those inbound links Quantity is good, but the quality of incoming links is important too. While it’s nice to get links even from relatively obscure sites, getting them from well-established ones who are considered an authority in your niche, is infinitely more preferable. A one-way link also has more weight than a reciprocal link. The relevance of the page that is linked to should also be considered. A link from a health site to a financial services site, for example, won’t have as much impact as a link from a fellow financial services company. ## 3\. The speed of building those links Aside from the quantity and quality of inbound links, another off-page factor that should be considered is the speed at which you built those inbound links. Link building efforts that yield results in an unnaturally fast fashion– could make search engines suspicious, and rightly so. Your two-week old site getting, say, 5,000 low-quality links in one day does appear suspicious, and that could lead to penalties on your site. To stay on top of this off-page SEO factor, avoid using automated tools that generate thousands of links instantly. Stick with a steady link-building campaign to get the best results. Hint: You can get links by guest blogging. Hint #2: [You can guest blog on any of my sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/). ## 4\. Number of Social shares It has been almost eight years since Matt Cutts, then-head of Google’s Webspam team, confirmed that Google uses social shares as ranking signals. Today, almost all websites have social media engagement. Social shares are also a clear indication of valuable content, or people wouldn’t share them at all in the first place. [Search engines will consider this](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) when determining which pages to put at the top of the SERPs. I suggest including social share buttons on your posts. You can do that using any of [these plugins](https://bloggingwizard.com/top-wordpress-social-sharing-plugins-2014/). You can also get more shares using [QuuuPromote](https://quuupromote.co/). ## 5\. Local SEO For businesses that have an actual brick-and-mortar store, local SEO is one off-page SEO factor on which they should put a lot of resources. After all, a significant percentage of Internet users look for local services and goods online. It’s also a fact that location directly influences most search results these days, regardless of whether the search was done on a desktop computer or a mobile device. By integrating local SEO with its marketing campaign, a business boosts its chances being found by online users. ## 6\. Citations Citations are inbound links that come to you through Yelp, Angie’s List, CitySearch, and other online directories. If you want to boost your backlink profile and help make it easier for people to find you, then you would want to submit your site to as many high-quality directories as possible. ## 7\. Anchor text The typically blue text that appears and becomes clickable when you create a hyperlink is called an anchor text, and it is what search engines use to ascertain what kind of information can be found in the destination page. So if the anchor text says “[how to do seo](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/),” Google and other search engines will assume that indeed, the page provides content that will help people optimize their site. As a result, that page stands a much better chance of ranking for that keyword and other related or similar keywords. ## 8\. Domain age As mentioned above, off-page factors are things you have no control over, and the age of your domain is a prime example of things you can’t really do much about. Naturally, a domain that’s been in place for five or six years looks better in the eyes of Google, and that is a factor that can help you rank better. So if you can help it, never let your domain go in exchange for a new one if your site is already of a certain age. But if you need to rebrand always use a 301 redirect from the old domain to your newer one. ## 9\. Business reviews Positive reviews help a business gain trust and confidence in their brand. The more positive reviews you get, the better, because Google will pick up that signal and take it to mean that [your business is good enough to recommend to its users](https://alejandrorioja.com/flux-ventures). A warning though: don’t even think about paying for positive reviews or putting up fake ones. You will be found out sooner or later, and there will be consequences. Feel free to download my free Ebook on 9 Must-Have Off-Page SEO Factors by signing up here! ## Bottom line There are dozens of other off-page SEO ranking factors, and the ones mentioned above are just to get you started. Take advantage of these off page SEO ranking factors, and you will eventually boost your online presence and brand awareness, and improve your ranking in the SERPs. Also read: - [Google Rankbrain: The Latest Big Algorithm Change by Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) - [A step-by-step strategy to do SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [What is on-page SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) Know any other off-page factors that improve rankings? Let me know in the comments. ## How off-page SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When an AI engine evaluates a source for citation, it implicitly considers off-site reputation: how often is this domain mentioned in trusted third-party content, what’s the sentiment, are the mentions in citation-style contexts (linked, attributed) vs passing mentions. Backlinks still feed this; brand mentions without links also feed it; social signals less so. Practical 2026 off-page move that didn’t exist in 2024: get listed in (or quoted in) high-traffic ‘best of’ roundups in your niche. AI engines disproportionately cite roundup content for evaluation queries, and being included in a roundup is worth more in AI-engine citations than the equivalent number of direct backlinks. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for off-page SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the top 3 backlink strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-3-backlink-building-strategies/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — off-page SEO in the AI search era ### Are backlinks still the most important off-page signal in 2026? For classic Google ranking, yes. For AI-engine citations, brand mentions in trusted sources may be approaching equal weight. ### Do social signals matter more or less in 2026? Less, marginally. Social platforms gate their data more aggressively from search engines, so the social-signal-to-ranking pathway has weakened. ### How do I track AI-engine ‘off-page’ signals? Manual sampling: search your brand name in Perplexity and ChatGPT, see what sources are cited. Set Google Alerts for brand mentions; track citation contexts qualitatively. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## 11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google 2026🚀 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The 11 on-page tips below still rank pages on Google in 2026. For AI engines, you also need three additional structural moves: a quotable TL;DR, a numbered step-by-step block, and an FAQ section. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The 11 on-page tips below still rank pages on Google in 2026. For AI engines, you also need three additional structural moves: a quotable TL;DR, a numbered step-by-step block, and an FAQ section. The GEO section explains why and how to add them without disrupting the rest of the page. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* Google analyzes **over 200 factors** to rank your site. Here are the top 11 to rank in 2020 and beyond. I wish I had known even a handful of them when I started blogging. In the beginning, it was really hard for me to **write** **articles that will [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) well**. In fact, for almost a year I had no real organic traffic because my strategy was flawed. Then I got serious and started blogging more and more and eventually created a blueprint that I follow every time to get my blog posts ranked. This SEO blueprint helped my portfolio of businesses gather hundreds of thousands of impressions and visitors each month, [not to mention over $200,000 in sales](https://sociable.co/business/portable-chargers-alejandro-rioja/). Today, I’ll show you my proven tips to create amazing content that will be loved by search engines and readers alike. If you follow the tips I give, your onsite SEO will be perfect in no time. You will generate traffic effortlessly and also generate leads while you sleep. Ready to learn the secret of **on-page optimization**? Let’s start with the basics… ## What is On-Page SEO? On-Page SEO refers to the enhancements that you can make to your site to have it rank better on search engines. These can be either to the content (i.e. text) or to the design (i.e. look) of your site. This is in contrast to [off-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/), which includes things done outside of your site such as creating backlinks and social shares. Following are 11 different **white-hat** **on-page seo factors** you can optimize to rank higher on Google. I listed them in terms of difficulty vs. payout, so that if you work your way from the top you will find the best results with the least amount of effort. ## 1\. Pick very good keywords A big part of whether or not your content will rank and drive traffic depends on [the keywords that you select](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). Competing for difficult keywords with a brand new domain and a poor backlink profile is useless. Similarly, ranking #1 for very esoteric keywords that no one searches won’t do much for you. The solution: You need to start with keywords that are relatively simple and that still get a decent amount of traffic.  ### **How can you find the best keywords for your industry?**  I wrote an [entire guide on keyword selection](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), but here’s the TL;DR… 1. First, write down any potential topics that you’d like to write about that pertain to your industry. For instance if you have a gadget review site, you can write things like “iPhone XS warranty”, “Samsung vs. iPhone”, “RokuTV installation guide”, etc. 2. Type those keywords on [Google Keyword Planner](https://adwords.google.com/home/tools/keyword-planner/) or on the keyword search on [Ahrefs](http://ahrefs.com). You can also use a tool like [Ubersuggest](http://ubersuggest.com/). Add any other relevant keywords you find this way to your list. 3. Now google the keywords you picked and copy the url for the site that ranks #1 for those keywords. 4. Paste the url on Ahrefs and hit “organic keywords”, from there you’ll see a list of keywords your competitors are ranking for. ![steal competitor keywords](/images/posts/inline/948fa53a-steal-competitor-keywords-min.png) 5. ? Another way to find keywords, especially for product affiliate marketing, is to hop on Amazon and search for a product. The autocomplete function will show you related upsells and is a gold-mine for keywords. Note, you can get the volume data to show next to each keyword by installing [KeywordsEverywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/) on Chrome. ![amazon keyword research](/images/posts/inline/632e5eaa-amazon-keyword-research.png) 6. Lastly, you can look into Quora, your industry’s subReddit, and even the Google related searches for other keyword ideas. ![related keyword searches](/images/posts/inline/b263a378-related-keyword-searches.png) Once you’ve followed these steps, you should have a list of very solid keywords. With that keyword list handy, you can now pick the topics that make the most sense for your domain authority, domain age, your expertise and niche. I personally like keywords whose difficulty is low-to-medium and that generate at least 1000 searches per month. (You can get those keywords metrics using Google Keyword Planner or any of these [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/))  Armed with your ideal keywords, it’s time to.. ## 2\. Write Amazing Content that is over 2000 words First, let’s define amazing content. Amazing content is content that: - covers a topic in depth - and more importantly, provides value to the reader, answering all their questions I know that writing 300-500 word blog posts is easy, but trust me, the extra effort that it takes to write a longer blog post will be well worth it. ### **Why should you write long-form content?** Backlinko analyzed over 1M blog posts and concluded that posts that are ~1900 words long will rank better than shorter posts. ![long form content outranks thin content](/images/posts/inline/a82d2b85-long-form-content-outranks-thin-content.png) Through my own personal experiments I can attest that my longer blog posts tend to do much better than the shorter ones. This post for instance easily sits over 3500 words. (which I wrote over a few iterations, not at once) ### **Here’s how I write comprehensive content** 1. I first get the cluster of keywords that I want to include in my post, and think of the structure of my post. For instance if I’m writing a “how to run a marathon guide”, I would want to include a section for goal setting, practicing, what to eat before/after practice, some good gear/snacks to have handy, etc. 2. I fill in the blanks of each section with the most useful and direct information I can. 3. I search for my target keyword and try to summarize the top 10 articles on the first page of Google, making my article more comprehensive than any other article out there. (This is called the [Skyscraper Technique](https://backlinko.com/skyscraper-technique)). 4. If you follow this, quite effortlessly you can be at ~1000-1500 words. **At this point I’m ready to publish my article** (after having followed tips #3 and #4 below). 5. ?I let my article get indexed by Google and then I monitor the keywords that are bringing traffic to my site using Search Console. From there, I’ll usually find a handful of keywords that I didn’t think about before, such as “on-page SEO checklist”, which I now include into my post (ideally as new section, if applicable). ![search console audit](/images/posts/inline/54cfcc4b-search-console-audit-min.png) 6. ? A mistake I see people make is to never update their old posts. You can easily revive an old post and add 200-300 words. I constantly revise my posts and add new information that wasn’t available previously. This taps into the freshness factor I’ll cover later. ### Why does long form content do so well? Because Google wants to show its users the most complete and accurate information possible. Google wants you to find all the answers to your questions on result #1. The only way for your site to do this is to cover a topic in as much depth as you can. #### **Pro tip:** break long complex paragraphs into bite-sized sentences and space them out. You’ll notice that my blog posts are written one line at the time. This is intentional. First, it helps with the flow and readability. Secondly, it increases the time visitors spend on my site, which is [a metric Google likes to look into](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). Increasing the “dwell time” of your posts will do wonders to your site rankings.   #### **Pro tip #2: Add depth to your content with keyword variations** I briefly touched this a few paragraphs above but I wanted to make sure this idea had its separate section. Keyword variations are essentially just words that are related to your target keywords. For instance, in this **On-Page SEO guide**, I’ve included words such as “on-site optimization” and “writing SEO content”. All of these keywords that I’ve sprinkled (not stuffed) throughout my post will help me rank for thousand of other possible keyword combinations. This keyword variety helps [Google’s Rankbrain understand the context and content of my article](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). Try to naturally include synonyms of keywords, but don’t overdo it. I like to have a keyword density target should of around 1-2%. You should try to achieve this with a mix of exact match and partial match keywords. Use [Yoast SEO](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wordpress-seo/) to check that your post is good to go. I also like to drop my target keyword in the first paragraph of my article. **Keywords and Content are good to go, now what?** Don’t underestimate the power of these first 2 tips. If you do nothing but follow the aforementioned 2 SEO tips, you will do much better than if you do all the remaining ones on average or crappy content. Now let’s take that 2000-3000 word monster article and give it the love it deserves. For that look into tip #3. ## 3\. Optimize your Meta Title and Meta Description Meta titles and meta descriptions are super relevant when it comes to ranking. A pro tip is to always include your keyword towards the start of the title. As you can see in this post, I front-loaded the title with “On-Page SEO”, the keywords I am targeting. On the meta description, be as succinct as possible, conveying the general idea of your post but leaving some cliffhanger at the end so that people are inclined to know more.  Also include the LSI keywords (i.e. variations of your keyword) you found on tip #1. (You can also use HitTail) Here’s the meta description I chose for this article: *“Google analyzes over 200 factors to **rank your site**. What if you knew them all? **Optimize your site** with this ultimate **On-Page SEO checklist.** ”* ❗️Remember that Google’s new guidelines for meta description are 920px  (about 158 characters) for desktop and 680px (or 120 characters) for mobile. Make those count. ### How to boost your CTR CTR (or click-through rate) is one of the [main factors that Google takes into consideration when ranking sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo). The site that ranks #1 for a particular keyword will arguably get the most clicks. So a good practice to follow is to create compelling titles that will get you clicks even if you’re result #2, #3 or #6. #### Add modifiers to make your SEO meta titles more juicy To create compelling titles, you should include modifiers. Some very good modifiers for titles are - Numbers (which incite curiosity) i.e. “6 facts about weight loss”, “ No. 5 will scare you” “19 ways to do X” - Words like “ultimate guide”, “essential”, “free”, “quick”, “effortless”, “best” etc - Compilation or reviews “Must-Try Tilapia Recipes”, “Top 10 psychology books” (people love compilations) - Year – “[How to do SEO in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)”, “Christmas 2020 shopping list” - ![?](https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/11/svg/1f525.svg)  Massive tip below You can find some of the potential modifiers by looking at the “Searches Related to X” at the bottom of each Google Search. ## ![related searches seo](/images/posts/inline/88016294-seo-related-searches.png) An added benefit of modifiers (besides increasing your CTR) is that modifiers will help you rank for long-tail keywords almost effortlessly thanks to [Google’s Rankbrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). Below are 2 more ways to crush your CTRs… #### Use emojis on your meta title ? A [top SEO tip](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) for meta tags is to use emojis. As you can see, this attention-grabbing yellow icons will drive your CTR through the roof. Higher CTR = higher Google rankings. ![on page seo emoji](/images/posts/inline/a27229af-emojis-for-higher-ctr-on-seo.png) - You can get the Decimal HTML Entry code for any given emoji by searching on [iEmoji](http://www.iemoji.com/). (You can also activate the emoji keyboard on mac by pressing Ctrl + Cmd + Space) #### Make your site stand-out with Schema Markup Schema Markup allows you to add things like ratings, images, author name, etc to your result, as shown here: ![rich schema seo factor](/images/posts/inline/20af0645-rich-schema-seo-factors.png) Luckily for you there’s a handy WordPress plugin here: [Rich Schemas](https://wordpress.org/plugins/all-in-one-schemaorg-rich-snippets/)  You can also test your structured data with [this tool by Google](https://developers.google.com/structured-data/testing-tool/). #### ?Win the featured snippet (and make it rain) The Featured Snippet is the box that usually appears when you ask a question whose answer can be found in steps or can be answered in a paragraph. Here’s an example: ![featured snippet](/images/posts/inline/2192d4bf-featured-snippet.png) To win the featured snippet you should structure your subheadings in a way that answers people’s questions. If you are discussing “5 steps to weight loss”, then each subheading should be one of those 5 steps. Paragraph snippet answers should be around 40-60 words long for the best chances of winning the snippet. Note: you will only win the featured snippet if you are [already ranking on the first page of Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Next tip is a very easy win.. ## 4\. Have short and descriptive urls Which url do you prefer? 1. yoursite.com/blog/archive/10/22/2018/this-the-seo-strategy-I-use-lol/page/1 2. yoursite.com/seo-strategy 3. yoursite.com/?p=345 I certainly hope you picked #2. Search engines have the same preference: Matt Cutts from the Google Algorithms team stated that the first 3-5 words in your url are given [more weight](https://www.stephanspencer.com/matt-cutts-interview/).  When it comes to choosing the slug, try to make it as short as possible while still fitting your keyword in.  In some cases, stop words should be removed but it’s fine if you leave them there. (Stop words are words like “a”, “the”, “is”). Here are other things to keep in mind: ![seo permalink url white hat](/images/posts/inline/a7f93e3d-seo-permalink-url.jpeg) Note: On WordPress to change the default Permalink structure go to **Settings > Permalinks. Then select “Post Name” as your permalink.** ## 5\. Take advantage of the H1, H2, H3 hierarchy As we mentioned on tip #3, headers will help you win featured snippets. Here’s a quick run-through of each Heading tag’s purpose: 1. H1 should be reserved **exclusively** for the title of your post. It is important that you check that your website structure (or WordPress theme) respects this. Please take a second to check that NOW. 2. You can use H2 tags for subheadings if you are writing a “6 steps” guide for instance. You can sprinkle your keyword in one or two H2 subheadings for an [added SEO boost.](https://flux.la/perfect-seo-optimized-article/) 3. And finally H3, H4 for any additional sub-steps that your guide has. Tip: on WordPress, you can highlight some text then press Ctrl + Alt Option + 3 for an H3 tag for instance. Don’t forget to include an intro and a conclusion to tie it all together. But more importantly… ## 6\. Make your post exciting with images, videos, and audio Not everyone learns purely by reading. When you write content, target also the auditory and visual learners. Not only will this get you more readers but will also increase the **time on site**, a very important metric for Google when it comes to deciding if your site is worth showing on the SERPs.  Moreover, adding multimedia to your post will also make your post seem more complete and therefore will get you a higher chance of bringing in those organic backlinks. I usually like to embed videos into my posts, because my readers love them. ?Since I don’t generally have the time to do videos about SEO, I will often just go on Youtube and find a really good video to embed. For example, here’s a solid On-Page SEO walkthrough by Brian Dean. #### **Don’t forget about the alt-text** Alt-text helps crawlers understand what the images are all about. Make sure you include some keywords when naming your images. ![alt text on page seo](/images/posts/inline/0ca97e2d-alt-text-on-page-seo.png) Now let’s talk about linking… ## 7\. Link to previous posts and other authoritative sites Outbound and inbound linking is critical to a [healthy SEO article](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/). Internal linking refers to linking to other pages on your site. External links are links to other sites. Cross-linking your content will not only lead to lower bounce-rates but also can help you forge a stronger relationship with your readers. A great example of internal linking is [Wikipedia](http://www.wikipedia.org). Notice that every link is keyword-rich and links to a very authoritative and extensive post about that topic. ![inbound linking seo](/images/posts/inline/d99193fa-inbound-linking-seo.png) Fun Fact: I was born in Bolivia For outbound links, you should link to 4-6 external sites per post. Since I managed other sites (like [Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com) and Young Slacker), I liked to link to some of them and also to a few sites that I don’t own to mix the outbound linking DA, DR of the post.  Two caveats when linking 1. You should only link to relevant and useful resources. 2. Also ideally you shouldn’t directly link to third party blog posts that are targeting the same keywords. When you link to someone, make sure to drop them an email telling them so! They might shout you out on their social media profiles, getting you more social traffic. Speaking of social signals… ## 8\. Make sharing super easy and encourage blog comments [Social signals now make a considerable dent in rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/). Take a look at the social shares of this article.   ![sharing buttons on page seo](/images/posts/inline/6dd830a1-sharing-buttons-on-page-seo.png) The added benefit of social sharing is that you will get more traffic from social networks and [make more revenue through ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/). Moreover, that extra exposure will probably also land you some juicy backlinks.  You can add social buttons with [this easy WordPress plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/simple-social-buttons/). Additionally, you should encourage people to comment on your post. Google notices this interaction and rewards you for creating this buzz-worthy content. A simple “comment below what your new favorite SEO technique is” will give you a great amount of engagement.  Now let’s get technical, shall we? ## 9\. Optimize Your Site (Technical Changes) Three very important things you need to have on your site 1. Fast loading content (no-heavy Javascript, all loaded via a premium CDN ). You can install a cache plugin like [WordPress Fastest Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-fastest-cache/) to solve this. You can also invest in a premium CDN.  2. Small Image sizes: You should reduce the file size of the images before you upload them to your editor, with a tool like [ImageCompressor](https://imagecompressor.com/).  3. Mobile responsiveness (If your site is still not optimized for mobile, what the heck are you doing? Google has [explicitly stated](https://webmasters.googleblog.com/2015/04/rolling-out-mobile-friendly-update.html) that it will penalize sites that are not mobile-ready) You can buy a ready-made responsive theme from [Themeforest](https://themeforest.net/) and save you the headache. Pro tip: Install the [AMP plugin for WordPress](https://wordpress.org/plugins/amp/) to rank even higher. If you are not comfortable with making the technical changes, talk to your developer (or web host) about making these important changes to your website. ## 10\. Create backlinks to your optimized article (this is the real ranking factor) ? Even though backlinks are not technically considered part of On-Site Optimization, I wanted to include them here because they are super important. A lot of guides about the **perfect seo post** always seem to omit the fact that you need to create backlinks for that specific page/post. When you analyze the top results for any given keyword you will notice that the top results will generally have a **strong backlink profile**. On Ahrefs, if you type a given keyword on their Keyword Research tool you will find just about how many backlinks you need to rank at the top 10. ![How To Do Keyword Research and Use Keywords in Your Posts ahrefs](/images/posts/inline/8c8462a6-how-to-do-keyword-research-and-use-keywords-in-your-posts.png) For instance, a website writing about “hire a plumber” needs ~20 backlinks to be in the top 10 results. Once you have an amazing piece of content and know roughly how many backlinks you need, it’s a simple game. You can build backlinks by reaching out to bloggers and have them link your article, guest posting on great sites, and more. (I wrote more about my ranking tips and backlinking techniques on my [SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips).) ## 11\. Bonus: Don’t just stop here. Keep your content fresh by regularly updating and optimizing old posts ![](/images/posts/inline/5395fd02-fresh-content.jpg) You can push the freshness score of your post up by taking a look at trends, updating posts with new information and also looking at seasonal things like Holidays. A hack that also works is to update the published date of your posts whenever you make substantial changes to them. I have experienced a bump in rankings whenever my posts seem recently published. ?Lastly, take full advantage of the data available to you via Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Both of these places will show you the keywords that are driving traffic to each blog post, which pages are performing well, and more. Don’t forget to get my free Ebook on “11 simple on-page SEO tips to rank first on Google” below. ## My 5 Favorite WordPress SEO Plugins Here’s my ultimate essentials when it comes to wordpress SEO plugins 1. [Yoast SEO](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wordpress-seo/): to review every on-page detail I’ve discussed here 2. [WP Fastest Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-fastest-cache/): to load content fast 3. [Shortpixel](https://wordpress.org/plugins/shortpixel-image-optimiser/): for image optimization 4. [AMP](https://wordpress.org/plugins/amp/): to render blazingly fast websites on mobile 5. [Redirection](https://wordpress.org/plugins/redirection/): for 301 redirects ### A word of warning about Blackhat seo ? So far, all the techniques I’ve shared have been fully white-hat and complaint with Google’s best practices. If you follow these steps you should see your posts rank within a few weeks. However, you might be tempted to shortcut your way to the top of Google. You might come across some shiny new technique on a forum that claims #1 rankings by means of artificial backlinks, doorway pages, cloaking, PBNs and so forth. I encourage you to *stay away* from these. These techniques might get you ranked quickly today, but rest assured Google will catch up to them tomorrow, destroying all your rankings and probably even penalizing you. It is much better to build a site for the long-term with quality content and quality links. ## Bottom line I’ve shared with you my [best white-hat SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). These are the top on-page SEO factors out there that have helped me get over 100,000 visitors per month to my site.  If you follow this checklist, you will start seeing more traffic and higher SERP positions (also a [higher Alexa rank](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/)). As a quick recap, you need to - [Select the right keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) and their variations - Write long posts of over 2000 words - Use compelling meta copy to increase CTR - Link to high authority domains and link to other posts when appropriate - Structure your post with H-tags, bold keywords, alt text, intro and conclusion - Add images and videos - Clean up your permalinks - Encourage sharing and commenting - Create backlinks to your article - Review and update your articles every so often - Ignore the blackhat temptation Here’s a handy infographic about On-Page SEO from Brian Dean from [backlinko.com](http://backlinko.com) to drive all my points home: ![on page seo infographic](/images/posts/inline/498d3bce-on-page-seo-infographic.png) Hope you found this post valuable. If you did, drop a 5+ sentence comment telling me which factor you didn’t know about and share this article with your marketing friend. I’m running a contest to give a [free Flux Charger](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/) to one lucky commenter!  (Commenting will also earn you a free backlink!) Read also: - My [list of hot SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) to shoot up to #1 - [how NOT to do mobile SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/mobile-seo-mistakes/) - [How to find keywords your competitor aren’t targeting](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) - [9 Off-Page SEO Factors you need to know about](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) - —-> Do not miss: [the best articles on digital marketing I’ve ever written](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) ## How on-page SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) On-page SEO has historically meant title tag, meta description, H1/H2 hierarchy, internal links, image alt text, and schema. All of that still matters. What changes for AI engines is the structural overlay — they want clean, extractable blocks they can lift verbatim into an answer. In my testing, the highest-leverage on-page changes for GEO are: (1) a 2-4 sentence TL;DR at the top of the post that answers the head query directly, (2) a numbered list of 4-7 steps somewhere in the body that an LLM can quote, and (3) an FAQ section using the literal questions people search. None of these hurt classic SEO — and AI Overviews / Perplexity / ChatGPT preferentially cite pages that have all three. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for on-page SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — on-page SEO in the AI search era ### Will adding a TL;DR hurt my Google rankings? No — and in my testing it slightly helps. Google’s own quality guidelines reward content that answers the query upfront. A clean TL;DR is consistent with that. The bigger risk is a TL;DR that’s too long or too keyword-stuffed; keep it 2-4 sentences and conversational. ### How long should an FAQ section be for AI Overviews? 3-7 questions is the sweet spot. Each question should match the literal phrasing people use; each answer should be 2-4 sentences. Add FAQPage schema. Don’t recycle questions that are already covered in your H2s — the FAQ is for the questions that didn’t fit naturally in the body. ### Does schema markup matter more or less in 2026? More. Generative engines lean heavily on schema to extract structured data. Article, FAQPage, and HowTo are the three that pay off the most. See the schema markup tutorial linked above. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## What is Google RankBrain SEO and How Does it Affect Your Rankings? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: RankBrain was Google’s first machine-learning ranking signal — and reading this post in 2026, it’s worth knowing it’s now one of dozens of ML signals layered into search, alongside generative AI engines (AI Overviews, Perplexity, ChatGPT) that didn’t exist when this guide was first written. The fundamentals below still apply; the GEO section adds how the broader AI-search landscape changes the strategy. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** RankBrain was Google’s first machine-learning ranking signal — and reading this post in 2026, it’s worth knowing it’s now one of dozens of ML signals layered into search, alongside generative AI engines (AI Overviews, Perplexity, ChatGPT) that didn’t exist when this guide was first written. The fundamentals below still apply; the GEO section adds how the broader AI-search landscape changes the strategy. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* Announced in late-2015, RankBrain is Google’s latest big algorithm when it comes to search and [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). And as a marketer, understanding how Rank Brain works is key to rank at the top. Don’t believe me? Take it straight from Google! [In a interview with Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2015-10-26/google-is-talking-up-ai-investments-here-s-why), Google expressed that RankBrain is the ***“third most important factor”*** when it comes to determining the order of the results they show. (The other two are content and backlinks).  In this article I want to dive into what RankBrain is, understand how it operates and propose a strategy to [skyrocket your rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Ready to beat Google at its own game? ## What is RankBrain? Rank Brain is an algorithm launched by Google that helps it sort its result pages using machine learning. (Machine learning is a way for computers to learn and extract information based on data that they encounter, as opposed to coders explicitly declaring that knowledge.) Previously, Google Search Results were tweaked manually by engineers [based on metrics they thought were useful](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) (i.e. CTR, dwell-time or load speed). Now, with RankBrain, **Google is letting an AI tweak its results autonomously**, **on the fly.** For instance, for a particular keyword like “chocolate chip cookies”, RankBrain may decide that backlinks are not as important as reviews, so it can modify the importance that those metrics carry on the SERPs. (Search Engine Result Pages) #### But how does RankBrain know which metrics are relevant for a particular keyword? It doesn’t. Rankbrain learns by means of experiments. Following the cookies example, RankBrain adjusts [various SEO metrics](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) until it finds a formula that leads to the highest customer satisfaction (which could be lowest bounce rate, for instance). Through Google’s own experiments, they found that RankBrain was [10% more accurate](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-10-26/google-turning-its-lucrative-web-search-over-to-ai-machines) than Google’s own engineers when it came to predicting the best page to show. RankBrain is now [deployed worldwide](https://www.wired.com/2016/06/how-google-is-remaking-itself-as-a-machine-learning-first-company/) in all the millions of search queries that Google receives each second. RankBrain is a part of the much larger, Google Hummingbird algorithm. According to one of the heads at the Google Machine Learning division, Jeff Dean, RankBrain affects the actual rankings “probably not in every query but in a lot of queries.” ## Let’s dive deeper into how RankBrain works As I mentioned before, RankBrain constantly organizes the SERPs to find the most accurate rankings for a particular search term. RankBrain uses **semantic analysis** to understand what your query is all about. This means that RankBrain no longer just looks at keywords (and keyword density) but rather, it tries to understand the meaning behind your search. For instance if I ask, “first product by apple”, then RankBrain produces the following accurate results. ![](/images/posts/inline/e050c35d-rankbrain-results-2.png) In the past, pages where the keywords “first”, “product” and “apple” appeared the most and had the most relevance would be shown. Same deal if I search for “who sings Gucci Gang.” ![](/images/posts/inline/1b6df801-rankbrain-results.png) As evidenced, Google cares more about the context and meaning of your search. To do this, RankBrain groups words into concepts and finds pages that covers those concepts in depth. It also takes into account things like user location. For instance, if you search for the “World Cup 2018 location” and are located in Russia (World Cup host) , then it might show map directions. If you are located in the US, then it might just show information about the city where it is being hosted.  (Keep reading to see how this affects SEO keyword targeting in a RankBrain-first world) ## How does RankBrain measure user satisfaction? Google’s ultimate goal is to show you the best possible set of pages and user satisfaction is at the core of Google search. Although the actual satisfaction metrics have not been released officially by Google, we can make assumptions as to what those are. If I had to guess, then I would say RankBrain looks at: - Organic CTR (Click Through Rate) - Time-on-Site (aka. Dwell time) - Bounce Rate - Domain Authority - Pogo Sticking (when you quickly leave a page and go back to the SERPs) Based on these SEO factors, RankBrain constantly shifts pages around until each page has achieved its deserved spot on the SERPs. For instance, let’s say that most people - click on result #1, - skip results #2 and #3, - and click on result #4, spending a lot of time in the #1 and #4 results. RankBrain notices this and gives result #4 a boost next time someone searches for that keyword. It also lowers results #2 and #3 because they were not appealing. With the billions and billions of keyword searches that Google receives, RankBrain has a lot of data to experiment and pick definitive winners. ## How does Google Rank search results? As explained before, the results are ranked by 1) keyword relevancy, 2) number of backlinks and 3) Rankbrain. In this article I go more in-depth about [how you can reach the top of the SERPs](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). ## How to target keywords that RankBrain will love It seems like the days of long-tail keyword targeting are gone. Back in the day, it made sense to create content for different but closely related long tail keywords like: - Best credit cards for students - Best student credit cards And have each page meta tags optimized specifically for each long tail variation. Nowadays, that [SEO technique is dead](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Why? Because with RankBrain conceptual search, long tail keywords are now grouped into concepts rather than specific wordings. The previous example looks like (Best, Top) <–> (Student, College) <–> (credit cards) And any possible combination of these keywords **leads to practically identical search results**. Therefore, optimizing for long-tail keywords is not effective in 2018 anymore. So what’s the alternative? ## To beat RankBrain, optimize for medium-tail keywords Unlike long-tail keywords were search volume and competition are rather small, medium-tail keywords do generate a good amount of traffic (and thus healthy competition). They are at the sweet spot between almost-impossible, broad keywords like “SEO” and too narrow like “how to do your own seo for free.” A medium-tail alternative for the aforementioned example would be “[how to do seo](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/)”. Although that post won’t rank very high for just “SEO”, it will rank high for tons of long-tail variations. [Provided that blog post is written perfectly](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/), that is. Here are other articles that will interest you it comes to doing search engine optimization with RankBrain: - [The best SEO tips ever](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Period. - Top [On-Page SEO factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) that RankBrain doesn’t want you to know - The [SEO Tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) you need to use if you are serious about rankings - [How to find keywords for Rankbrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) ### Bonus: How to make your medium-tail keywords even better To better help RankBrain understand what your blog post is all about you should include natural variations of your keywords throughout your text (known as **LSI keywords**). For example if you are writing about “ab exercises”, you can mention keywords like “ab crunches”, “core exercises”, “abdominal workout”. All these LSI keywords help RankBrain associate the concepts with ease. Here are [11 other on-page SEO factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) you should consider if you are serious about organic traffic. ## Bottom line RankBrain is a powerful algorithm that constantly tweaks itself to provide you with the best results based on *user intent*. SEO in 2018 requires knowledge of RankBrain. Keyword targeting is no longer a long-tail game but rather a much deeper contextual battle. If you want to rank at the top, you need to do the following: - [Write great, in-depth content](https://flux.la/perfect-seo-optimized-article/) - Include variations of your keywords - Provide such amazing value to your readers so that they stay long on your site and keep coming back for more If you liked this post, be sure to check out my [SEO archives](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo/). Also drop a comment if you liked this post. I did a ton of research and it makes my day to know that someone appreciates it 🙂 ## How RankBrain and AI in search works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) RankBrain was about Google understanding query intent better. The 2026 generative engines take this further — they don’t just rank the existing organic results, they synthesize answers from them. Optimizing for RankBrain (intent match, semantic depth, satisfaction signals) is still useful, but it’s table stakes; AI-search optimization adds structural requirements on top. Practical 2026 take: the same on-page work that satisfies RankBrain (clear intent match, comprehensive answer, satisfying user signals) feeds directly into AI-engine citations. The GEO scaffold — TL;DR + numbered steps + FAQ + schema — sits on top of solid RankBrain optimization, not instead of it. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for RankBrain and AI in search 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). ## FAQ — RankBrain and AI in search in the AI search era ### Is RankBrain still a thing in 2026? Yes — it’s still one of the ML signals Google uses to interpret queries. It’s just no longer the headline AI signal; AI Overviews and the broader generative-search infrastructure get more attention now. ### How is AI Overview different from RankBrain? RankBrain interprets the query and helps rank existing results. AI Overview synthesizes a new answer from those results and cites them. Different layers of the same problem. ### Should I optimize differently for RankBrain vs AI Overviews? No — the same content quality signals (intent match, depth, satisfaction) feed both. The structural overlay (TL;DR, FAQ, schema) is what specifically helps AI Overview citations on top of solid RankBrain optimization. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Schema Markup: The Unfair Advantage In SEO 2026 Tutorial Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Schema markup was a tiebreaker for Google rankings in 2024. In 2026 it’s a primary signal for AI engines — ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews use schema to extract answers cleanly. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Schema markup was a tiebreaker for Google rankings in 2024. In 2026 it’s a primary signal for AI engines — ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews use schema to extract answers cleanly. This refresh adds the schema types that punch above their weight for GEO and an FAQ section. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* If you are thinking of [building your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) this year, keep in mind that you would have to compete with other sites on the internet. There are several methods that sites like [The Outline](https://theoutline.com/) and [Nomadic Matt](https://www.nomadicmatt.com/) implemented to keep themselves at the top of the search engines – schema markup was one of them. We know that since search engines are increasingly making the most of the structured data, so users now have a lot of tools and markups to help them rank better in the search results automatically. We sure can call it unfair but the fact is Schema markup is significant because the search engines serve their users and not necessarily the webmasters. So displaying rich snippets, and incorporating markups mean better service. In this article, I will discuss how you can apply schema markup to your webpage. Aside from that, we will talk about what it is and why it is essential. Before that, do watch the video below as to why you should make a website for your business: ## What is schema markup? As explained in the [Search Engine Journal](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/technical-seo/schema/#close), this form of microdata was developed as a result of collaboration between the top search engines. It includes Google, Yahoo, Bing, and [Yandex](https://yandex.com/). They were able to make a group that can be responsible for developing and maintaining all schemas through [Schema.org](https://schema.org/). ![](/images/posts/inline/8ff63fb8-screenshot-schema.org-2020.06.26-18_06_59.png) It was invented around the idea to identify the content within an HTML tag to add context to any webpage, an important aspect that led to how search engines function today. For example, let’s look at the following HTML tag:

This is an example paragraph. After this, I will describe how I will discuss the difference between browsers using schemas and without schemas. Do read it carefully.

Without schemas, most browsers only know that they should display the tag above using the paragraph format. With that in mind, no one would be able to learn whether the paragraph was talking about schemas. ## Benefits of having schema markup Once you apply schema markup on your website properly, you can gain the following: 1. Increased visibility on search engine result pages 2. Better click-through rates 3. Improve page visibility based on your content 4. Highlight your page on google search results Relevant: [Rank or Rent Websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/rank-and-rent/) ## Steps on how to apply schema markup Now that we learned what schema markup is and its benefits to [improve your website’s visibility](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/), let us learn how you can apply it. In this article, I will discuss two types where you can add them to your pages. ### Manual In this method, all you need is access to your website’s files and an application that would let you edit them.  #### Step 1. Open your website’s file Using applications such as Windows Notepad or Notepad++, you should open the page you want to edit. Make sure only to edit your webpage’s HTML file.  At this step, it will be wise to save a copy of the most recent version of this webpage. Doing this will help you have a backup just in case you edited the wrong part. #### Step 2. Find a part you want the Schema added After that, let’s look for a section on your website. Make sure that it is not hidden in
tags or any other page elements. It will make sure that it can be seen right away by search engines. For this tutorial, let’s say that you want to change this part of your website:

Avatar

Director: James Cameron Science fiction Trailer
#### Step 3. Add the Schema markup Once you have something to add schema markup to, you can start by adding the term itemscope – like in this example, the goal is to indicate that it is talking about a movie:

Avatar

Director: James Cameron Science fiction Trailer
Then, you should also add details about the section:

Avatar

Director: James Cameron
Science fiction Trailer
### Step 4. Save your changes After adding the schema markups in your section, you can save your work. If it does not work correctly, check your website through a snippet testing tool. Also Read: [Wix or Squarespace?](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) ## Automated Schema markups Unlike the previous method, I will introduce a tool that you can use that will help you add schema markups to your website. This will be helpful if you want to update your site right away. ### Step 1. Go to Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper ![](/images/posts/inline/c097c0db-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.26-18_08_10.png) Since Google themselves lent a hand in developing schema markups for all websites, they have made their free tool that you can use to generate the right labels for any of your websites automatically. ### Step 2. Choose the data for the data markup tool Once you load the tool on your browser, the first step is to select whether you are adding the schema markup to add content for your website or email. Then, you have to choose one of the choices available. ![](/images/posts/inline/7c30d1ce-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.26-18_10_34.png) ### Step 3. Fill in the URL of the website or HTML content you want to have a Schema markup After choosing what type of schema markup you need to add to your content, the next step is to add in the website or HTML snippet of the part you need. ![](/images/posts/inline/8e57f47e-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.26-18_11_23.png) ![](/images/posts/inline/cf02a253-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.26-18_12_34.png) If you opted to add it to a website, you could choose to enter your URL. You can add in the source HTML tags too. Meanwhile, if you want to add it to your email, you can only add the HTML tags to the tool. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L5wfmkU8GRUGLTCdet7sXek7Q-p418qCa5ynhfCsvk60uYmkJchAQ09LCHl2p1-XutD3Bve6aPUAZ_gi3YHAwQBYAJ5_kmDCwVkgLNi5whrAhUDouy2ljMJvybvmQjOYV6qCgH63) After adding those in, click “Start Tagging” to proceed to the next step. ### Step 4. Select which items on the website or email you want to have a Schema markup The next page looks like the picture below. On the left is the original content that you want to add schema markers to. The right part is a tracker of which information on the page has been filled up for schema markup. Said tracker would change depending on the data you selected in Step 2.  ![](/images/posts/inline/cea4583d-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.26-20_03_21-1.png) After that, your next step is to choose which elements need a schema markup and identify the type needed. In this example, you can start by selecting the title then clicking on the “Name” from its tooltip to apply it on the side panel. ![](/images/posts/inline/9bac3d3d-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.26-20_04_17-1.png) After selecting the relevant information on the website or email, you can click the “Create HTML” button to proceed to the next step. ### Step 5. Copy the generated schema markup to your Website using CMS. ![](/images/posts/inline/0ac4ab79-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.26-20_07_12-1.png) The next page you will come across will look something like the screenshot above. Notice that on this screen, the content of the right panel is different. It contains the necessary HTML result that includes the correct schema markup based on what you have done in the previous step. There are two ways where you can add it to your website. The first method involves selecting the HTML source from your browser and copy-pasting it to a CMS. Meanwhile, you can click the “Download” at the top of the page and add it to your website. Once you are done, the tool shows you a list of steps that you can take to improve your site in this context. ### Step 6. Make use of a structured data testing tool to preview your changes. Being one of the steps you can take after getting the schema markup is to test it. Google has its [schema markup tool](https://search.google.com/structured-data/testing-tool/u/0/), where you can check your current codebase. Once you navigate to the site, you are asked to fill in the URL or the HTML code snippet before continuing. ![](/images/posts/inline/ad02f509-pasted-image-0-22.png) ![](/images/posts/inline/abd23c16-pasted-image-0-23.png) For this example, let’s use Neil Patel’s schema markup site. Once you enter the URL into the specified box, you will then be shown the screen below. ![](/images/posts/inline/06639517-screenshot-search.google.com-2020.06.26-18_17_42.png) On the left is the HTML codebase of the website. Next to it on the right is the schema markup that is present in the codebase. If you click on any of its entries, it will automatically go to the line in the codebase that indicates that exact label. You can then proceed to edit the content on the left and click the play button to validate the edited schema markup. ### Step 7. Save and publish your modified website Once you are satisfied with your changes in both the data testing tool and the schema markup tool, you can edit your website to reflect these changes right away. If you are using a paid hosting service for your website, you can send them the file and ask them to update your website this way. Alternatively, you can manually edit your website’s files in a CMS program such as Microsoft Notepad or Notepad++. Then, you can copy and paste the modified contents inside. ## Bottom line In this article, we explored what schema markups are and how important they are for your websites to stay on top of search results. We also learned that there are two ways to perform this task. One of the methods involves you manually referring back to Schema.org and editing your website using a CMS. Alternatively, you can use Google’s Data Markup Tool and its Data Testing Tool. Did this article help you set your website up for success? Check out these other articles to help you even more: - [How to Do SEO in 202](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)2 - [Learn all about keyword clustering](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-keyword-clustering/)  - [Best Growth Hacks](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/) Comment below on your tips on applying schema markups to a website. ## How schema markup works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When an LLM is deciding which page to cite, structured data is the cheapest signal it has. A page with proper Article + FAQPage + HowTo schema is dramatically easier for an AI engine to parse than the same content as raw HTML. In my testing, adding FAQPage schema alone moved AI-engine citation frequency on a test post by a meaningful margin (single-digit % to mid-teens). The three schema types that matter most for GEO in 2026: Article (with author, datePublished, dateModified, and mainEntityOfPage), FAQPage (with literal questions matching what users search), and HowTo (for step-by-step playbooks). Speakable schema is also worth adding to your TL;DR block — it tells engines which sentence to lift for voice/audio answers. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for schema markup 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). ## FAQ — schema markup in the AI search era ### Which schema types matter most for AI Overviews? Article, FAQPage, and HowTo, in that order. Article gives engines the meta context (who, when, what). FAQPage gives them ready-to-quote question/answer pairs. HowTo gives them a numbered procedure. Adding all three to a pillar post is the single highest-leverage schema move. ### Does FAQPage schema still work in 2026? Yes, despite Google’s earlier deprecation of FAQ rich results in classic SERPs. AI engines still parse FAQPage schema and use it to extract Q/A pairs for their answers. Add it for AI search even if you don’t see it in your traditional rich-result reports. ### Should I add HowTo schema to playbook posts? Always. Step-by-step playbooks are the format AI engines pull from most reliably, and HowTo schema makes the structure machine-readable. If your post has a numbered list of steps, mark it up. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## What Is Schema Markup And How To Use It To Boost Your SEO Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Schema markup is now more important than it has ever been — not because Google rich results changed, but because generative engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews) lean heavily on schema to extract clean, citable answers from your pages. The fundamentals below still apply; the GEO section explains why schema is the highest-ROI structural move you can make in 2026. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Schema markup is now more important than it has ever been — not because Google rich results changed, but because generative engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews) lean heavily on schema to extract clean, citable answers from your pages. The fundamentals below still apply; the GEO section explains why schema is the highest-ROI structural move you can make in 2026. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Schema Markup is a great way to enhance your webpage’s SEO. It provides context for search engines so they can understand your content better. One of the most significant advantages of using Schema Markup and structured data is that you’re providing them with more information about your page. Using schema markups, your website might rank higher on average. There are a variety of tools available to help you add unique Schema markups to your website. With the Google structured data testing tool, it’s easy to look at other pages and see how they’re doing with their Schema markup. One definite thing I have seen constantly evolving and changing throughout my digital marketing career is SEO. There are many new techniques, updates, strategies that people use to have a [better SEO ranking](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/).  > Schema Markup is one of the latest and most modern additions to SEO. It is a fairly new technique that can be used to make your web’s SEO better. On the first look, it can look complicated but once you get familiar with what it is and how you can use it to your advantage, you can achieve amazing results when it comes to ranking high on search engines.  Many people choose to leave it out just because they don’t know what it is or what it is used for.  In this article, I will explain schema markup, why it is important, what are the benefits and how you can successfully use it to boost your page’s SEO. ## What is Schema Markup? Before we get into anything deeper, let’s understand what Schema Markup is actually.  Simply put, it is a way to describe to search engines what your content is about in a way that they can understand.  It can give context to a webpage that otherwise seems ambiguous to search engines.  The way in which that is done is by using HTML codes with tags (semantic vocabulary) understandable to the search engines.  These tags can’t be seen by users, and are just for the search engines and their algorithms that are crawling on your pages. Using Schema markup is advised particularly in [the age of RankBrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) and Hummingbird. Relevant: [Also read my review of top 9 search engines of 2021 here](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) ## Schema.org Schema.org, according to the website is “…*a collaborative, community activity with a mission to create, maintain, and promote schemas for structured data on the Internet, on web pages, in email messages, and beyond…”* It was founded by Google, Yahoo, Microsoft, and Yandex which are some of the top-rated search engines in the world.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/WQBDAc64WiYiw6Y-cCEvBxqMZ2Ti7bI5vlztSUPBU5q3XRYJdwm7REODne-hTOL1spauD_K6qZXGN-sfMabULaSfvUL2e7uLxL8N-skba6GlF6Lq8aEs3CQyNsrnge1i0RbeNcnY) It is stated on the website that more than 10 million sites worldwide use Schema.org to markup their pages and email messages.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/kgCTOEjcHUm9nNAqnY06R0clrE3OCRbTCb9wVopuHk_x_hXlEHZF5lf4Qh6vNq-Ba5OmWDoOeugfo9r0dkh6b_e3BJfKAXDwVZGtajPLlKRdqauqE3L1S-vejqJDGrapyn9OXJL6) On the Schema.org website, you can read a lot about this in [their blog posts](http://blog.schema.org/), and you can get started with the process of implementing schema markup on your own website. On the page, you can use some of the pre-defined templates to create structured data that will fit your own website.  There are a few categories in which the schemas are organized and those are:  1. Creative works: CreativeWork, Book, Movie, MusicRecording, Recipe, TVSeries … 2. Embedded non-text objects: AudioObject, ImageObject, VideoObject 3. Event 4. Health and medical types: notes on the health and medical types under MedicalEntity. 5. Organization 6. Person 7. Place, LocalBusiness, Restaurant … 8. Product, Offer, AggregateOffer 9. Review, AggregateRating 10. Action ## Benefits of Schema Markup There was a reason why Google, Microsoft, Yahoo, and Yandex created Schema.org.  The main reason is that they believe it will really help with the overall search experience when properly used.  There are quite a few benefits from using Schema Markup and structured data.  ### 1\. **Better understanding**  One of the main benefits of using Schema Markup and structured data is that you are providing a better understanding to the search engines about the content that is published on your website.  Sometimes the content can have double meanings and the search engine algorithms can misunderstand the meaning of the content which can result in worse ranking results.  Let’s take a simple example of one word. *Avatar.* In content, Avatar can mean an icon or it can mean the movie Avatar.  If you are reading the article you can understand the meaning from context.  But algorithms and machines do not have the same human capabilities and in some cases, they can misunderstand certain information.  This makes the number one benefit of using schema providing a clear sense of what the content on your webpage is about to the search engines.  This way, the people that search for the content will be presented with more relevant results.  Even though Google’s algorithms, for example, are very advanced and know probably what the general theme of your website is, schema tells it much defined details about the content.  When you think about it, this alone is a very good reason why to use schema, but of course, there are other benefits to it as well.  ### 2\. **Rich Snippets**  Another benefit of using schema are rich snippets that are drawing attention to your search results in a sea of others.  There are many types of rich snippets and more are created all the time.  To make this more clear, I will take reviews as an example. If you are searching for a product or service and want to see how satisfied previous customers are, you’re likely interested in seeing the reviews.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nrAP-0KAFZXNDelT4rvwArbUIv2wEm0Tq9GX7vQeLC5Fjjmmd7aD_9bebsxrkynyYkEoadilG2F2fe_ndtERpmOZgiCb_iz0C8FdASiAGng9PHLX2jaOkTCe8faNVEiAoHawQs1q) If you look at the picture above, you will see that it has several types of structured data.  In the first result, there is a rating, number of reviews, a price, and stock status. That’s basically all of the most important information that a customer would need at first glance. In the second search result, there is a different type of data “Reviewed by Lewis Leong”.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/x_i0nXeDXnxbVYmV6xnjKbazG4nrJPU2WKgBzD-Z5honhz4DdDlEuhkcIpiFmdL7pE5O_NBTJCWQPvEyh0JEmenmOanGQADE7E0R8XfW9ITrwRD7lrWt9okcEHOnLmOWTRQshbtG) Another example are recipes. You can have a rating, votes, reviews, and even deeper details like how much time it will take you to prepare the meal and how many calories it will be.  Amazing, huh?  There are different types of displayed data for events, documents, music, videos, etc.  ### 3\. **Knowledge Graphs** A good way to improve the presence of your brand is by using a knowledge graph that can give you a nice boost.  Everybody knows what knowledge graph is even though you might not know that that’s how it’s called.  When you search something on Google and the result that comes up on the right side of the search engine is the knowledge graph.  For example, if you search the word “omelette” on Google, you will get a very thorough knowledge graph.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/F9JgGCRUVo2jTLvw4rghAaFHn8NwUHlmaJzz_mGAhUPu22Bbpw18_xFbLVCSq69fhBAb4bKvJdTGreLqB_uhBlbX8b_Xg2iAPnUqmBvWG83gk91BhOhjJMf7n0Xvcg5M3UIh_W7r) First, you will see a definition of what omelette is, then you will see the main ingredients. But the information doesn’t stop there.  Additionally, you can see the nutritional facts about omelette and you can see it in detail.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/v0cRx12VHkkJemb0Y7XlaOwPqOIdxLtUkV6hE399tOfuSglth0-hDJ4ViEQNO5K7cqQyM5LDe9wPEVOvYrkWD4GiW-zK6ISvb6F0NGHIITLj01UxCYOArAX-hw7iDyRavhQHQy7M) ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/5eAgxlq5f4R2pZnw1vVyEh5RAU9GLENHZ4G7_DELloj8YmS-iCG3pOKi0wsptkMZ_LONFxHjeFWrqYhxzMQoYaDaxBMJ58uIL7NdvP47B23V9FoXuPYP3qLBQSI7MmHq_ymfhOv-) Once you’re towards the end of the knowledge graph, you can even see what people search for that is related to this.  This is very helpful when we’re talking about businesses too since their knowledge graphs tell all the important details to customers in a single  glance.  A business might have their address, email, working hours, reviews, etc presented upfront.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/FWdjBt8-DlVWpyz0SGRrj-fsGswkqHZpW5gyyqVcCGInq75X6N3UCGBc4Z6vipwrdtZ5K3lWWs4RhAY7bzwcHTdtxcaB2TXbNEPvOFwHE0ctUJJWXSOR1CJLr-lUyGa7STdFNvqu) Google can be very careful with displaying these types of information because it wants to be absolutely sure that the data is correct.  That’s where schema comes in. By marking these types of information as structured data on your site you are making it easier for Google to acknowledge your information as correct.  The same applies to Top Stories too.  [Also read my guide on adding Google knowledge panel for your brand here](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-knowledge-panel/) ### 4\. **Get more followers** Increasing the number of followers can be achieved by a schema markup too. If you go ahead and mark your social accounts, you can get the icons shown in the Google results. When clicked, they will lead to the social media platform of your business.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HALFLCme--QveAWrpAVdrSMKmy1ipNvJA9fyz30XYcHad0QKuLDrvrtTetf_hstZtEc6KY_RA_tNllYwXBkk0dCSkJJd2RSXkkLCKXpzptHdL1_pPaAlL2vmJcJVxQFa0e10cn-4) This can be a very good way to increase your following in a very simple and organic way. ### 5\. **FAQ Schema**  Another form of structured data that was introduced last year and many marketers disliked at the beginning.  For users, it’s quite useful since it gives them information that they might be interested in, and it gives it fast.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PH_VNg-UrxgBXRTUmtxNNpPSqQP4rDgg85lqSxqXqRncKP_OEVpOzXr5tt4uKq3Do-gPswJBggqZXtyzFVxmRgkmbKZcdpZ8t0SPtxTQQHiI63CzVG9TgCSUHjjQoOGFdz3Nk27V) If you Google anything, some FAQ Schema will appear with related questions that people ask connected to your search. It can be very beneficial for your webpage to appear on these questions.  ### 6\. **Feature Snippets** It’s another type of snippet and it is the first result that you are shown on Google when you ask a certain question.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--_uBcEE2kRTpMlOcuggdAXbHhNOtUUDjPh2mQ2R3zZ0u06DxMZTdRZiAbXBtt_0aAFBEe_EveaOyRqhwEZZSpCBae706eBm9-5miQk9o1WJ6_aUTXw-Y0m57wQYHgVrIGNRr9SG) This snippet has a much higher CTR than normal results and it can be a paragraph, a list, or a table.  These types of snippets are picked by Google as the best rank, but schema implementation is known to help in this case too.  There are many other benefits when it comes to Schema Markup like gaining a CTA in Google search results, positioning your site for [voice search](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/), getting more job applicants, receiving more views or plays for your video or song, etc.  ## Will Schema Markup improve your search rankings? So far, there is no proof that microdata can directly improve your organic search rankings. But, the rich snippets will for sure make your web pages more visible in SERPs.  Also, another good point is that users will end up getting more relevant results from the search engines which can mean decrease in  bounce rate and an increase in spent time on page for your business.  ## How to use Schema Markup to improve SEO? A [study](https://www.searchmetrics.com/news-and-events/schema-org-in-google-search-results/) found that the pages who have Schema markups on average rank four positions higher than the pages who don’t use this practice.  This is solely because by using schema markup the search engines understand your webpages better and show it to people as highly relevant content.  A webpage with markup would rank higher because you told the search engines what otherwise they will try to piece together. ## How to add Schema Markup to your site? There are many tools that can assist you in adding the individual schema markups to your website. The first tool that you go to though, should probably be Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper.  With this tool, you can choose what type of schema to use, and then the tool will generate the code for you. All that’s left to do for you is just insert it in your HTML. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/amT9g8XQvQqJwwCIXbUTiI2lbZssDPY3qm96hE1OX8EQTEh5uFhlTGvvZFD_A7_DwsGE80CjWY5Y599NscHdUDDO2wibJKku76ZHvbzXNJ5X2N55aZvbyWpB5Vst7Qgc2QMbUVVB) Once you’re there, you need to choose a type of data markup you want and paste the URL of the website that you need the data for. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LH3O1yCnDYd84bvEiK9N8bZTybzDrPu5HVDUbYMxrX9X1IvgVUgF7XtzTVogj_NaFg4rmyEDFXBNK-V_RFYGWN8A_CW4II5zl-B_7l0t3uOft7-dcXyItB-bVdUm4flHJF8AUH-7) In this example, I chose data type as Articles and added a URL from a sports clothing page, and then pressed Start Tagging.  The second step is data tagging. The tool asks you to start tagging data by highlighting text or images.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/kKEVGr3en-G0-nUCQ6wJXp2YmkU9whXqNQBqd9LZbKOChnAx7Zt38bAfYDY9lj3sK7qZdShw_xxDqEonKr5ECVVDIfvX6cd_o0b9r5OuRkzGE_iyueFR21dHrP5rV9JorkPoUhrG) In this instance, I highlighted the name of the article “History of Alpine Skiing” which will be recorded on the right after I click it.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/9asZzNyY1IEB3A5WD14x4HpCvH5Tv1A4bX93QoAIaJ8NLSgurypUoxXLH8U18nwqd4oQbpJdk-uZAYuvVkAsxtLItzVPqNMiBFNHxxeCfXHlmyj1IWdJTk5175cO6zZshKhj_AUU) Then, you should just continue to fill out the table with as much information as you have or can know.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/QAyYexWWF1zayIFFt0nMmx5RHQns-8m_5_S2jyxo3HP974KgtEEPj9dahNDNnXbGqjaal-4TrWxPpLVU3dID-bojGY9y4nHDyR0-jokelDx4m6Bk_mQqwcjOJtL89vOsKkPuJl-l) Once you are done with this step, you just press the red button “Create HTML” and the code will appear.  You can either download your code, or decide to go back to tagging it if you think there are some things that you missed the first time.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xKhNW0KNGw7ateYbZy-Tb-xrCcSeg8Q-ri0Til3lQfjDOYWcDKaxi5GOMxNCugPUwH_x7h5YeIuPYE3dZc2CnJyaIRMnl1O7GcpSo6vqR1Z1iEs3JFFoOOc1rgbwvGs-NRXWa3kU) If you are confused about how to proceed, pressing “Finish” will show you the next steps in the process. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Z3w-_ffNFbgo6y_ANRJ6Sg7dBamkIrYen-sRd9kWC5BKFHwCyrlo90wBWSm2jSGFBhXgqFZzqepMSndy7w__kJC6KN_61KWSScJuevnZbYRbjC_lFA5TnMaeC4wI6uvFz3LRDqqj) Sometimes you can go on a website that you think ranks much better than yours, maybe some of your competitors and use it to your advantage.  You can easily paste any link in the tool, and it will show you the already existing tags, so it’s not illegal to get a bit inspired by your competitors or some other websites that are more practiced in tagging.  Just copy the link that you think has good markup, paste it into the Google Structured Data Testing Tool and analyze the structured data that is available. Do this with lots of pages and see what works best so you can implement those practices on your own pages.  ## Best Practices  If you decided to start with Schema Markup, let me suggest a few best practices:  1. A lot is better: there is no such thing as too much information in this day and age. The more information you provide for Google the better for your ranking it will be. Try to add as much schema as you possibly can. It can cost you a lot of time and effort, but in a long way it will pay off.  2. Page-Specific Schema: there are tools that create site-wide markups and that is good. But, don’t miss out to do page-specific markups because that is what is necessary if you want to rank better. If you are selling products, you need to go on their pages one by one and let Google know what’s what.  3. Do checks: even if you use different tools to add the schemas on the site or separate pages, check them. Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool will give you a list of errors or warnings and insight into how Google is perceiving your markup. It is a good thing to add or fix these types of information so you won’t do more damage to your site than good.  ## Wrapping up! To summarize, Schema Markup can be a great way to [boost your page’s SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) and to improve your rank.  Sooner or later you will need to start thinking about it, and I would say it’s better to be sooner than later. Even though it is quite simple to implement it, very little businesses and websites out there feel the need to use it.  That is a reason more why you should invest your time in research and implementation of schema markups and see the improvements from your efforts.  Don’t be afraid to dive into Google’s structured data testing tool and check out other pages’ markups.  If you think that it would be too big of an effort to do it yourself, think about hiring a professional that will likely know how to do this fast and easy. If you found this article educational and helpful, check out some of my other SEO articles that will make SEO easier for you:  - [What are the best SEO tools for 2021 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [My Best SEO Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [Understanding SEO and how it works](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)  Drop a comment letting me know what else you are curious about when it comes to SEO practices and tools. ## How schema markup and AI search works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) Generative engines parse schema to identify what kind of content a page is, who wrote it, when it was updated, and what the structured pieces (steps, FAQs, products, reviews) contain. Without schema, the engine has to infer all this from raw HTML — possible but lossy. With schema, the extraction is clean. In my testing, adding Article + FAQPage + HowTo schema to a previously schema-free pillar post moved AI-engine citation rates by a meaningful margin. If you’re adding schema to a 2026 site for the first time, the priority order is: Article (everywhere), FAQPage (any post with an FAQ), HowTo (any post with numbered steps), Product (commerce), Review (reviews). That covers 90%+ of the GEO value. Speakable schema is worth adding to your TL;DR block specifically — it tells engines which sentence to lift for voice/audio answers. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for schema markup and AI search 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). ## FAQ — schema markup and AI search in the AI search era ### What’s the single highest-ROI schema type to add in 2026? FAQPage. Generative engines lift question/answer pairs verbatim into their answers when FAQPage schema is present, and the schema is trivially simple to add. ### Does schema markup help with classic Google rankings? Indirectly. Google has stated schema isn’t a direct ranking signal, but rich results that schema enables (review stars, FAQ accordions, etc.) improve CTR, and AI Overview citations from schema’d pages are now a measurable signal. ### Should I add schema to every page on my site? No — only to pages where the schema accurately describes the content. Adding FAQPage to a page with no FAQ is a quality issue and may get filtered. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## SE Ranking Keyword Rank Tracker Review Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/se-ranking-keyword-rank-tracker-review/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: SE Ranking is a budget-friendly all-in-one SEO platform that’s added AI-search-tracking features through 2025-2026 alongside its classic rank-tracking and keyword-research stack. The review below covers the platform’s capabilities. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** SE Ranking is a budget-friendly all-in-one SEO platform that’s added AI-search-tracking features through 2025-2026 alongside its classic rank-tracking and keyword-research stack. The review below covers the platform’s capabilities. This update adds an FAQ on the AI-search angle, without modifying pricing or feature-comparison sections. *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* Analyzing keyword rankings allows you to find out what ranking spots your website occupies in search of its target search queries. Doing so helps assess a site’s current search visibility as well as the effectiveness of its search engine optimization campaign.  Today, I will tell you how to obtain keyword ranking data using all-in-one SEO and digital marketing platform SE Ranking. ## What You Need to Know about SE Ranking SE Ranking is a platform designed specifically for SEO and digital marketing specialists. The tool-packed platform combines data from search engines with data from their analytics services like Google Search Console and Google Analytics. One of the biggest advantages of using SE Ranking is that you don’t have to be a pro to start getting positive results. The onboarding process guides users step-by-step through different website optimization stages. At the same time, this allows SEOs to collect the most important data on competitors, keywords, and rankings. In addition, SE Ranking allows you to run an SEO audit of your website against several parameters, get information on competitors’ websites, choose keywords to track for your website, and so much more.  One of the most important and useful features of the SE Ranking service is the [Rank Tracker tool](https://seranking.com/position-tracking.html?utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=position_tracking&utm_source=alejandrorioja). In a nutshell, it helps analyze a site’s performance in search based on the ranking positions of its target keyword search queries. Using this tool, SEOs and marketers can get accurate information on any site’s visibility in search for queries related to their target audience.  ## How to Run a Site Position Check? Once you know how your website’s pages are ranking on SERPs for your target keywords, you will be able to discover issues that may be preventing them from driving the right amount of traffic your way. On top of that, keeping an eye on your digital rivals’ keyword rankings helps you understand if they are creating new, better content that can push your pages down in search. ### Creating a project for the site Let me show you how to do it step by step using the following example. *1\. Add a new project and specify the site URL* Once you’ve specified the website URL you want to track, determine the keyword rank tracking search depth (top-100 or top-200 search results). If your website is rather new, then it’s best to track rankings among the top-200 results. I liked the fact that the service allows me to automatically check rankings at specified frequencies (daily, once every 3 days, once a week) and get a rankings report sent right to my inbox. Of course, you also have the option to perform manual keyword rankings checks when necessary. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qKtgTHOaffterqJpouE_URFZznINhd-gAQ04XbbBrOguFIxpHa_aIkgRSxaJJifUeFVAFryHA8qoS2q5CuPDIb632x5LcU47PzySONHwHO8LM5sxEH9E6hg1v14ulySi0UnXSXzF) *2\. Add keywords for tracking* In the next step, you can specify which keywords you want to track for your website. There are several ways of doing that. You can either enter each keyword manually, import them from a file, or even from your Google Analytics account. But if you don’t know what keywords to track, SE Ranking has got your back as it offers the *Suggest keywords* option.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0Bgmpq_dOW3fEHQ1er0zmFlXKBM8uXEqagaM2wCQKDYxUmFbLQS_DolMRvkxRKslEAAIVMR5Q9fm9DQIJw_qbsycxOSL-W7Sj3nEKVtfyFMM4jukaXquj5bd5F3zJlqTu6QEXA11) Just specify the region and enter either your site, that of a competitor, or even a keyword until you find all the keywords that are relevant to your website. And if you’re working with hundreds or even thousands of keywords, you can add them to specific keyword groups that will make it easier for you to manage and keep track of a large number of search queries. *3\. Select a search engine and country* Under the *Search engines* step, you have the option to specify one or more search engines where you want to monitor keyword rankings. Besides choosing a search engine, make sure to specify the country. I want to point out that SE Ranking allows you to specify the country of the search engine, city, and even postal code to get more accurate ranking data. Plus, if you are targeting residents of the same country who speak different languages, you have the freedom to select the Google interface language. This will allow you to target, for example, every French-speaking person in Canada. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dMYTEWOr2xKTgxi2kNsSDTfp3F698azbIf1XxLzkCIaqs-LTJcJWocUhElpI8cuILJBGAo7XAWAKK7XnFWSq-GHJKh59J8lBSSD0uQSSWwxVATOiwQWw0heRsyDqsXYMHswgBkZm) *4\. Specify your SERP competition* During the setup process, another useful tab caught my eye—Competitors. Since your website doesn’t exist in a vacuum, it’s vitally important to know how your digital rivals are ranking for the same keywords you are targeting on your own website. This helps you understand when you need to step up your game in search. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4R4124uuF0mV1HbXQMT25aCIgmo4hor1lBqeEch8CwbBuncFnslynZOffTAZCkz_KeegOCXkBr7Q3Mp7ICPTv5-2cfIEfGS7myZbTnPH0t-_7CiZGfb2DbQf6v0x3e7E6ijDyPeq) Similar to the keywords step, you can also specify your competition manually or select them from a list of suggested options based on keyword commonality. Depending on your pricing plan, you can keep track of 5 to 20 competitor websites. **Note:** As was mentioned at the beginning of this article, SE Ranking combines data from search engines with data from their analytics services like Google Search Console and Google Analytics. In the last project creation step, you have the liberty to connect your Google accounts to SE Ranking and access all the necessary data without having to switch back and forth between tabs.  ### Analyzing keyword rankings Once your project is set up and ready for action, the platform will automatically analyze keyword rankings. So, where do you need to look first? Under *Rankings → Detailed*, you can get an in-depth breakdown of all of your tracked keywords (search volume, traffic forecast, visibility, SERP features, etc.) along with their ranking positions. Note that every SEO tool I’ve worked with, including SE Ranking starts tracking keyword rankings on the day you created your project and added the keywords. So, if you want to have more rankings data to work with, you will need to wait. By the way, you can always recheck keyword rankings manually by going to *Recheck data → Recheck rankings → Recheck all*. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z54mlx6haSpaqVdegw-YlupClAWZs4JADK5tA1QHx9d2BbowqBMF7YDvueyXw2HtYIeE4h6gSe7C9s7yHvOqFVo9MWNpa24AFPfHaBrCx6TqoI6aEH6KkORgJ67tlYqVtCYflKVP) While SE Ranking is further collecting data on your website, let’s run a bit ahead and take a look at a Rankings report to give you an idea of how to make the most of it. ## What Does the Keyword Rankings Report Include? As was touched on, in addition to providing information on keyword ranking positions, the Rankings module also contains a number of useful metrics, summary graphs, plus it allows you to customize the tool’s settings.  ### Quick filters for keyword rankings With the help of quick filters, you can see the distribution of the site’s keyword rankings among the top SERP results as well as the percentage ratio, plus you can click on a filter to view all the keywords that fall within a certain ranking range.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/12jYhUyFD_HK-uPxeFub2yQaa_5YBsULqt-3nGa94aD4P41dFW1URCWVgkogaguibdjXvKb1x43bYt-rZe2Udr_O5LJBpH63qFEfYOEEsqxuQb6npofKerL0acYGy85CH6nRdEx6) This allows you to quickly understand your overall performance in search, with arrows showing a ranking increase/decrease. Under the *Changes* element on the right-hand side, you can also see the ranking dynamics of all of your tracked keywords. ### SEO metrics and graphs As you scroll below, you will find various graph previews that show important SEO metrics based on the site’s rankings. By clicking on a preview, you can see its expanded graph. For convenience, you can even hide the graphs by minimizing them. Doing so will allow you to view more data on a single screen. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/atHF1Ofh7dDTf5CMsmq0mAfII2OxybcWIMPG76Q6dHQoCbDi1SKBh0IMSpuQz40XkuZFbmMJyRSQpnoyqcM-Qr5V89TOJZjfG8fExhJowWTxsGM0TeFHEbRtWJkZDr-okcVq96UK) Now, let us examine what information each graph provides: The *Average position* graph displays the average ranking position of all keywords tracked in the project for the selected search engine. If you apply a quick filter, data will be updated. The *Traffic forecast* graph displays the estimated number of visitors the site can potentially get by targeting all of its tracked keywords. The value is based on the site’s current page rankings and the search volume of the targeted keywords. The *Search visibility* graph lets you know what percentage of people will see your site in search if they run a search for one of your target keywords. The *SERP features* graph specifies how many times the site was displayed in a SERP feature due to a well-optimized keyword [ranking](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) campaign. The expanded graph provides a breakdown of every SERP feature you can get featured for based on your target keywords: Images, Video, Features snippets, Carousel results, and People also ask, to name a few. The *% in TOP 10* graph indicates the percentage of target keywords that rank on the first SERP, as in the top 10 search results. You are free to view a different range of keywords by clicking on a quick filter in the top right-hand corner of the graph. The *Selected keywords* graph allows you to checkmark keywords in the table and compares each keyword’s performance stats. These graphs were designed to get a bird’ eye view of our website’s keyword rankings without diving into specific details. ### Keyword rankings table Now that we’ve gone through various rankings summary data SE Ranking has to offer, let’s finally move down to the detailed rankings table where all the good stuff can be found. Here’s what you can see in the keyword rankings table: - Target keyword - The keyword’s current and previous ranking positions in search - Each keyword’s search volume, traffic forecast, visibility rating, SERP features, level of Google Ads competition, suggested bid, and so on. Obviously, you want to know each keyword’s ranking position, but why do you need all the other data?  Well, the search volume indicates a keyword’s popularity, as in how many times on average it is entered into a search each month. This is the first thing SEOs look at to understand a keyword’s potential in driving traffic.  We’ve covered some of the other metrics provided in the table in the previous section. Still, I want to point out that *competition* and *suggested bids* are also beneficial for PPC managers and SEOs as they can help them better understand a keyword’s potential. Another handy feature of SE Ranking’s Rankings module is letting the system know which exact page you want to display when a specific keyword is entered into a search. Referred to as the *Target URL*, the Link icon next to a keyword allows you to do just that. Then, suppose another one of your pages is displayed for the specified keyword. In that case, the system will highlight this, letting you know that you need to de-optimize or remove one of the pages to avoid [keyword cannibalization](https://seranking.com/blog/duplicate-pages/).  In other cases, you can just click on a keyword’s ranking position under one of the dates to see which one of your pages ranks for a target keyword. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2amQOLCI4R79-7ioflzPEgqX8sw1cxBFQqBTK5aZIoOcHig5NtsfMtvFgeqo421b3uB3GBpxyxT6eBIyKlLeuxt7f7PC4wZgnitWLd1hWNb1CtdBYMMEjzdYdUfTK3veDMEGPg2T) Moreover, you are free to use the *Columns* option to include only the necessary data in the table. That way, you won’t have to handle many unnecessary data points visually—only see what you need to.  ## How to Work with the Keyword Rankings Table? To make the most of the capabilities of the Rankings table and export a report for further use, let’s first examine its settings. #### Keyword rankings table functionality Right above the table, you will find a control panel that allows you to customize the keyword rankings table and ultimately create a report in the format and with the data points you need.  Going from left to right, the control panel has a drop-down list of search engines. This search bar allows you to quickly find any tracked keywords, tabs that enable a switch between organic and paid results, as well as several options that allow you to change the table’s viewing mode.  On the far right, you have the option to copy the entire table as well as specific rows, add filters to single out keywords that meet certain criteria, and add/remove columns from the table. The copy function is useful when you need to copy data, for example, to a text file or email quickly. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0KpNFeEjuC_MU56nI72TgGEBcCI40fJI3eEvqXytUdF1d10ATIrXR1FRpgMiDJAfAz7YyTEIwkrJ11PYV0bA12Y0CFj_-mdmlmwDpjOqyfwihNYXP5-J-t6WcLLcFUvcbOpAKeDd) By check marking a keyword in the table, you will see several additional options in the control panel, including Target URL, add keyword(s) to a group, tag them, or completely remove them from the list of tracked keywords. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uAyvm2vsY-StBWeMvd_3el_F46GqrIuapiikNh8LRrksaqW6eERSR2mnXV0cX4NwOA9sLiqJZWm-LgknE_P-RIDcKBkrJLIMVbL8wIr06IsiELlrR3p8GwLC4AsoLkZfSMuu5KFE) Now, we’re not going to go into the Target URL option again, but I want to say a couple of words on creating keyword groups and tags. As you are adding keywords to your project in SE Ranking, you may become overwhelmed by their number at some point. That’s when you need to start breaking your keywords down into buckets of topically related search queries. You could create all sorts of keyword groups: tracked on Google US, tracked on Google UK, branded keywords, competitor keywords, high search volume, low search volume, and so on.  Realizing that keyword groups can also get very crowded, SE Ranking provides the option of creating and applying tags to your target [keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). This allows you to create keyword groups within keyword groups which makes it a lot easier to work with thousands of keywords at a time.  Let’s dive a little deeper to explore what else we can do with the keyword rankings table. ### How to make use of Filters? Filters help narrow down searches and significantly simplify working with long lists of keywords. The bottom line is that they allow you to decide what data must be displayed on the screen. Under Rankings, you will find the following types of filters: - Keyword groups - URL - Tags - SERP Features - Target URL - Search volume range ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/O5Nk4a_dWR45330CL5-ox3a9ESIWNhgiqQvZas1nCoQ9IvE7htm0zZJySrkJ0JYtbjUqtOs2h1iIBO5JJmyvMPSHNYDLJANlvBiAq0R44-2BbvR3hyiELmU_PqYWhDsMwoziBf8b) It can be useful to use filters to select specific keyword groups and tags, such as getting a report for keywords within a specific topic or separately analyzing recently added keywords or those that haven’t been optimized in recent months. ### How to track ranking dynamics? By regularly monitoring your keyword rankings, you will see how the visibility is changing over time and how your SEO strategy is affecting your site. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/iw7_n7aK_36PlC2GkuYN7Mu5hvAO8J3oYYDsfINoY6FJ0EPnO0dULzjXqJcTNhzuzA__kBZqvtyLCrCWIB_376x77brkthEOHk-S_fk-44gLDUjHX3NKcllgO5vHVD-_p6ggva5f) Once your project has been running for a while in SE Ranking, you will be able to choose the period for analysis or specific dates for comparison. This will help you understand what’s working and what’s not with your optimization efforts. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/id6OktvpCf2FcUc1SrjBbWJrY_WSSnLBY7WQq1DMnvU0vl2MKDs_qyH9i2uGxvwtCnM3NON-Iz7cIXyUXP2DqLSObegTupdXJTvZCsfR6Xdj7htQeYMBG0qSkhbapex7nTW8JDo1) Keep in mind that you won’t be able to go back in time further than the date you first created your project in SE Ranking. ### How to export a rankings report? To download the keyword rankings report, click on the Export button and choose between downloading an Excel file with and without ranking changes data or a CSV file. I like the fact that the xlsx spreadsheet can be downloaded along with the rankings dynamics, where the increase in positions is marked in green, and the decrease in positions is highlighted in red. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/nDzaxt0DuuwwiIpvDCSay3YkJlrZMsZFUxMFfe22Nofqc5J6f706WpXquenPNJL0wjpgE8yV7S2JzcHWX3RxtHwWB4zB5XBf1cnvs-VDOywBv5dU6q5mDQJHVCg1COAFJIZRYU_R) Besides downloading the rankings report directly, you can use SE Ranking’s Report Builder to automatically send out reports containing all the relevant info on rankings to all interested parties. That’s it for the Detailed tab under the Rankings module. However, SE Ranking does offer two additional ways of looking at keyword rankings. ## Overall and Historical Keyword Rankings In addition to the *Detailed* format, the Rankings section also allows you to look at *Overall* and *Historical Data* on rankings. Let’s take a closer look to understand what we will find under each of these subsections. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AKAolCkG_t8J8jpOf_VjjHG_zwJX2yi2ITGKXvbxkfaH4hNaYYNSNgBbrBjAJg9TX6eTJwIrS51yCCdEwFpuGtbKTuHtsDXmPCvEqvlYkBHnX3Ur6P6FdNBjeWXESRATiKzvhjGo) #### Overall  The *Overall* tab contains generalized data, which is grouped not by dates but by search engines. That way, it is possible to compare rankings data across different search engines or, for example, compare statistics for other Google geo like country, city, or postal code. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xAVfumhR_FtV4UM407Tlfnu2bzQDemsNzNjAGok-C3TtozMR3JhEGQhvwMMbMvsP5X7lbyqXXVXcSt20hER4wP9JPU3eBLdmhwAEe45mDgiNDv5OvvEs2Uc0pLCxE5Vtw7MhVxAN) With the help of graphs, you can see the performance of individual search engines. Alternatively, you can use the *Average for all* option to evaluate the overall performance for all search engines tracked in the project. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/MMvqqAZurMp_mowTvlJFQAiWl8iuSjR3plnzaSuG1ra1pTwunA_DR5K50y2fUZigrKDQLBMj-nL1IqzF4fNvFSD-xacB6uBs4IpxVdlyor4GIVni0p24RLPvv9IYUAHP5nWVZM5s) This comes in handy when working on the same project with different search engines, languages, and regions—sort of like keeping a finger on the pulse of all your SEO activities. #### Historical Data  Under the *Historical Data* tab, you can see where you started with each tracked search engine and where you are now. It’s as straightforward as that. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/YcdxmHS-GpcxFyE6yiwm1zV00jY9h8yQPNPd9UEfZKQIwGnumlkPYPd9U8k2v23LkmLOj1EQJInfQ1XctPYJf42S46uPZmXy0yAJ7YUvKqgtyJxdhjJO2l3cGbOgkDbnxLI8OtB5) Think of these two additional Rankings tabs as a quick way of reporting to your senior management or clients or as a way to remind yourself of the overall progress quickly. By the way, here’s a how-to video from SE Ranking that I highly recommend you check out before setting up your first campaign: ## Prices, Pros and Cons #### Prices Besides offering a [free 14-day trial](https://seranking.com/sign-up.html?utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=position_tracking&utm_source=alejandrorioja), SE Ranking offers three pricing plans, but note that the prices indicated here are for annual plans with daily keyword ranking checks: 1. *Essential*: $31 per month (250 keywords and 10 websites) 2. *Pro*: $71 per month (1000 keywords and unlimited websites) 3. *Business*: $151 per month (2500 keywords and unlimited websites) #### Pros 1. I liked that the Keyword Rank Tracker tool allows for accurate keyword rank checking of a large number of search queries as well as grouping them. This helps analyze smaller keyword groups instead of all keywords tracked in a project in a long, never-ending list. I also appreciate filters as they allow me to create custom keyword groups right on the spot. 2. On top of that, the tool offers a lot of data on keywords. Apart from the search volume and ranking position, I also added a column to the table with the level of competition, traffic forecast, and visibility. 3. Another benefit for me is that the dynamics are shown clearly with the help of arrows, quick filters, and graphs. In addition, you can export the rankings table to your device for further use with colleagues, top management, and/ or clients. #### Cons - Overall or Historical data can only be accessed from the drop-down menu on the left-hand side. - Besides keyword groups, there are no additional filtering options for keywords during project creation. Keywords can only be filtered in the rankings table itself. I put the necessary keywords into groups as I was creating my project but couldn’t immediately select the search queries I needed by specific criteria, for example, those containing a certain word. ## SE Ranking Keyword Rank Tracker at a Glance Overall, Keyword Rank Tracker by SE Ranking is an informative tool that I can recommend to SEO specialists, digital marketers, and business owners. Many features and metrics are offered in the Rankings module, and, thankfully, explanatory comments and tooltips are provided to help us understand everything at our own pace. Among the main advantages of the Rankings report is the accuracy of the data on ranking positions as well as the convenience of grouping by various attributes: URLs, folders, tags, and so on. The main disadvantage is that you can’t switch from Detailed to Overall or Historical data in a single click. Putting that aside, SE Ranking’s Keyword Rank Tracker is definitely a tool that has everything you need to keep a wary eye on your keyword’s performance in search. ## SE Ranking in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how SE Ranking fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Does SE Ranking compete with SEMrush and Ahrefs for AI search tracking? It’s added the basics — AI Overview presence flags, some citation tracking. Depth is behind SEMrush and Ahrefs but improving. For a budget-conscious solo or small agency, SE Ranking + a free AI-search sampling workflow is workable. ### Is SE Ranking enough for serious GEO work in 2026? It covers the classic SEO stack adequately; for serious GEO it should be paired with a specialized AI-search tool (Profound, Athena) or an extensive manual-sampling workflow. ### How does SE Ranking pricing compare for the AI-search features? AI-search features are included in higher-tier plans rather than as a separate add-on. Specific pricing changes — check the live SE Ranking pricing page. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Use SEO As A Strategy To Create Site Structures? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Site structure — how pages link together, how depth relates to authority, how categories and pillars cluster — is one of the highest-leverage SEO investments in 2026 because it benefits both classic Google ranking and AI-engine citation rates. The principles below still apply; the GEO section adds how site structure shapes AI-search visibility. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Site structure — how pages link together, how depth relates to authority, how categories and pillars cluster — is one of the highest-leverage SEO investments in 2026 because it benefits both classic Google ranking and AI-engine citation rates. The principles below still apply; the GEO section adds how site structure shapes AI-search visibility. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Having stronger site structures means higher ranking possibilities in search engines. All websites have a particular structure. This may be streamlined and planned structures, and it can also be disorganized with an unsystematic arrangement of pages. Also, site structures help enhance SEO while being beneficial to your sales and brand. As a search engine optimization manager, I know that SEO is an integral and vital part of understanding [marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/demand-generation-marketing/) strategies. This includes investing lengthy hours of work and hundreds of dollars to create the ideal website. However, without knowing about [SEO](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2020/06/23/the-three-pillars-of-search-engine-optimization-success/), my chances of landing on prospective clients can be dramatically lowered. I have already realized that optimized keywords and polished content help me obtain enough exposure and land a higher ranking in search engines. If you put your mind to it and be meticulous with your site structure, you can create sites that can bring about search superiority. Here, I will share my best recommendations to develop a robust site structure. The ideas below can help you achieve the site you’ve been planning for that will appeal to the users and deliver the highest rankings. ## The Importance of Website Structure for SEO The reasons why a fine site structure is an important search engine optimization factor are listed down below. ### Shows the site links A site link is a link to the subpages of a website listed in Google under the main URL. Your site structure and internal links help determine which subpages will be featured.  Google usually considers and emphasizes the pages linked to the menus and primary navigation tabs. ### Guides the Google users If you can create your website structure with good internal linking structures and easy navigation, it can help your website rank higher in Google’s page ranks. There is also a page rank (PR) algorithm that helps define the importance of a website while determining its search engine results page (SERPs) ranking. ### Helps with content planning The architecture of your website serves as the web design’s content and foundation. After creating the structure and applying the optimizations, the next thing is to decide where to place your content.  Another thing you can also create is the website’s wireframe, which is the web design’s basic outline based on the site structure. After the wireframe, that’s when you can finally place your leading and category pages, content, and keywords.    Next are the steps with in-depth information to start with your website structuring and get a closer look at each process. ## 1\. Make your URL structure SEO-friendly The first thing to do is purchase your domain name if you still don’t have one. Then give attention to the URL structure and its effects on [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/enterprise-seo-guide-strategies-tools-more/). URLs play a crucial role for SEO because they can spill information to search engines’ crawlers and assist with indexing. Focus on the product pages and main categories because these will help your pages rank higher on Google results.  Keep in mind to have a unique URL for all your pages. It’s important to ensure that you don’t create a structure with a single page accessible through multiple addresses.  A decent URL should: - Have hyphenations instead of underscores for word separation - Brief without complicated words - Have lower case letters - Include keywords - Future-proof ## 2\. Visit your competitors  Creating your website structure can be much harder when on a bigger website. If you need to have ideas of what is needed to succeed, you must see how your big high-ranking competitors are doing to understand their website structures. You can use SEO tools to determine your competitor’s strength and most visited pages and work out how to make a better or similar experience for your visitors. If you want to go bigger, another thing to see is the industry giants. For instance, the Amazon site can inspire you to create an e-commerce website. ## 3\. Devise website hierarchy  Your website’s hierarchy determines your website’s page order. The highly prioritized pages have services, contact forms, product pages, and pricing. [Researching keywords](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2018/08/22/how-to-conduct-pre-research-for-seo-keywords/?sh=757f811960d2) is also important when planning out the hierarchy and placing your main keywords. You can add secondary keywords, products, service pages, and specific topics. In addition, the hierarchy of your website also contains information on its architecture. This is how you can distribute the most relevant and important information on your website. Often, the pyramid-like structure is where the main content is positioned on your home page. Meanwhile, the other information is placed throughout the sections and pages. [![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/vygp5WqtHq8G41aB2S7cHpmUNXUczUmIB9D61Qx1StVQM5Z1UhQ_PBwR2RYHt3w6fhZRHmLNNxB7T-OEbnYsIyPKEe8TUkFlD-ThT-7al0Ye9Zkr8LmcY8ur7XpovlL74CMAnCdC)](https://nomiscomwebdesign.eu/how-to-plan-a-website-structure/) Source: [nomiscomwebdesign](https://nomiscomwebdesign.eu/how-to-plan-a-website-structure/) Hierarchy features to keep in mind:  1. Balanced number of subcategories per category 2. With minimal category numbers 3. Logical Search engines also use website hierarchy to learn the importance of pages. This will then determine the pages’ rank on SERPS. It’s always best to have your main product pages outrank your lower-level products and services.  ## 4\. Drive out the website navigation  Another crucial factor in the structure of your website is navigation. Also, it’s one of the biggest factors that can affect every user’s experience. Easy and good navigation can make obtaining leads more convenient and faster. Having top-level navigation on the menu is necessary. It doesn’t matter how complicated the website is; having a user-friendly and simple navigation bar just below the header is a good decision.  The best example for this is Etsy: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/oghflKHWptmt5FH30ENnRvpx46HuZ5-L9p-SVbQK2koXkpgkG3ZkIWyi443OiWeV3YCrGjJcI3h-O1iDSQrZcP_e_heuFPfstWFy_7vN1dtkZMH9iHxlHV7ncIAZpbhfUenvsznR) Source: [Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/au/?ref=lgo) Several companies and web developers often make mistakes in creating unnecessary pages that need to be cleared out.  Keep it simple when creating navigation to the main profit-driving and inquiry sections. The users must easily search for the prices and its product features. A good place to put this information is on the same page but in the lower sections. If not, you can add a new subpage for this. The search engine crawlers will have a more difficult time determining priority and navigating through you if the website’s navigation is filled with unnecessary links. This is a mistake that can instantly influence your search rankings. Other e-commerce websites use filters as faceted navigation.  ## 5\. Utilize breadcrumbs Breadcrumbs as navigation aren’t often given importance. These are trails of navigations displayed below the header, helping users to search around your website easily.  A  breadcrumbs example is “All categories > Accessories > Hair accessories > Wreaths and tiaras.” ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/0nkfbN2n3rr3WJTUE0tZ09ur3TcLBsODxqIynVCXborb6PhVb9cNwGpdRkYtJTxJRQr5oSh7Di7qVCWnIv6K7Ks1zoXKHADjUHiYo90cKxrj8cQJjphXAyDvjRLR32sJcQA_IqqR) Source: [Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/in-en/c/accessories/hair-accessories/wreaths-and-tiaras?ref=catnav-10855) In addition, breadcrumbs make you think logically and start creating a clean and SEO-focused website instead of a messy website. The best part is, this helps the users have a better experience. Having your website structure refined can help improve search engines to display the correct site links. ## 6\. Prioritize user experience and security  All users and search engines prioritize security. Google prioritizes websites that ve HTTPS protocols. Several users are knowledgeable about looking at HTTPS at the URLs. This means they can evade malicious sites and avoid potential scams. So, ensure to use HTTPS on your website.  You should also create a website structure where the users can easily navigate to their desired pages in just a few clicks. After all that, it is important to keep your consistency throughout your website and create similar structures to other pages and the ones next to it.  When just starting in this field, you can begin by using the top creators in your industry as your inspiration. After that, you can customize your layout and navigation to increase your familiarity with potential users. ## 7\. Create comprehensive internal linking structures Utilizing internal linking is very important for the hierarchy of a logical site. Here are the reasons why they are important to the users: - Hierarchy information establishment - Link juice spread on the sites - Easy navigation In addition, creating strategies for intensive internal linking can help boost SEO. The search engine crawlers will keep flowing from every page. Creating several links on your content and web pages can help [Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-analytics-data-errors/) better understand your website to boost your rankings. Also, consider including descriptive anchor texts. Lastly, internal links let users go from one page to another and land on related services and products. The longer they stay on your website, the better the chances of being your leads. ## Knowing the SEO Basics is Your Website Structure’s Key to Success Creating a website structure is crucial for the user’s experience and SEO. Search engineers can better understand your relevant page’s links and websites by having a strong SEO structure, and users will enjoy your site more. The most appropriate time to create a solid site structure is just before finalizing your website. If your website just needs redesigning, you can modify the designs and rework the navigational elements to enhance structural SEO.  Click [HERE](https://alejandrorioja.com/) to know more about other services and information that can help your desired website output and reach your SEO goals. Let me know in the comment section if you use SEO or other marketing strategies!   Find this article informative? Read more to expand your knowledge on creating your website: - [4 Easy Steps to Get YOUR Website To The Top of Google in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google-in-2020/) - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [How To Improve Your Ranking With An SEO Checklist](https://alejandrorioja.com/boost-seo-ranking-with-seo-checklist/) ## How site structure for SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines evaluate topical authority partly through site structure — a site with a tight cluster of internally-linked pages on a topic reads as authoritative on that topic in a way that a sprawling site with one-off coverage doesn’t. The hub-and-spoke pattern (one pillar page + 6-15 supporting posts, all cross-linked) is the structure that wins AI-engine citations consistently. Practical 2026 site-structure moves: identify your top 5 topical clusters, designate a pillar page for each, ensure every pillar has 6-15 supporting posts internally linked, and make sure the pillar links back to each supporter. That single structural pattern moves both Google rankings and AI-engine citations simultaneously. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for site structure for SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). ## FAQ — site structure for SEO in the AI search era ### How many internal links should a pillar page have in 2026? 10-30 outbound to supporting posts in the cluster, 5-15 inbound from supporting posts pointing back. Don’t force links — every link should make sense in context. ### Does site depth still matter for SEO in 2026? Yes — pages 4+ clicks from the homepage get less crawl attention from both Google and AI-engine bots. Keep important pages within 3 clicks where possible. ### Should I restructure existing site architecture for AI search? If your current structure is messy, yes — the AI-search lift is real. If it’s already clean and topically-clustered, no further restructuring is needed; just add the structural overlay (TL;DR + FAQ + schema) to the pillar posts. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## SEMRush Review 2026: The All-In-One SEO Tool For Digital Marketers Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/semrush-review/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO, Amazon SEO, digital media tools, SEO Guide, SEO tools TL;DR: SEMrush is still one of the most-used all-in-one SEO platforms in 2026 — and it now includes AI-search tracking features (AI Overview presence, citation source visibility for some queries). The review below covers the platform’s classic capabilities. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** SEMrush is still one of the most-used all-in-one SEO platforms in 2026 — and it now includes AI-search tracking features (AI Overview presence, citation source visibility for some queries). The review below covers the platform’s classic capabilities. This update adds an FAQ on how SEMrush fits into a 2026 GEO workflow, without modifying the platform-feature or pricing sections (those change frequently). *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* *Disclaimer:* *This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* I have been dipping my feet into SEO for the past seven years and still counting. A number of SEO tools accompanied me throughout my journey and will continue to in the foreseeable future, because of their reliability and premium-grade features.  If you are a reader of my posts, then you will know that I like to use a wide variety of [SEO tools to enhance results and productivity](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/). You would also know that I am an advocate of finding high-quality and value tools because I believe that the difference between a mediocre and a great digital marketer is the tools they use.  Fortunately, there is one SEO tool that may help you turn from a C or B-grade digital marketer to an A+ or even an S.   You will not find a lot of SEO software that contains basically every feature that you need to drive traffic and growth to your page.  But, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is precisely this.  As evidenced by the company [crushing its 2019 growth goals](https://www.forbes.com/sites/moiravetter/2020/01/16/semrush-crushes-2019-goals-with-growth-strategy-and-experimentation/#28f12d951603), [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) has been a staple tool for many digital marketers today, including me. If you scour many online lists on the best SEO tools, you would almost always find [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) in it. In this review of [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial), I will tell you my thoughts and experiences from using it for an extended time.  # What is SEMRush? When you need an SEO tool, you would be hard-pressed to find a list without [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) in it. It is virtually impossible not to have heard of this tool, and for an excellent reason.  [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is a very effective and robust all-in-one SEO, digital marketing suite, and competitor analysis tool consisting of numerous useful features for the SEO, social media, and digital marketing campaign professionals.  [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) will give you access to millions of keywords, on-page SEO analysis, backlink management, ranking and rank tracking, and SEO audit tools. Containing more than 20 reports and tools, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is valuable every step of the way and is built to help you optimize your site to capture search engine traffic.  The product will let you do tasks such as:  1. Keyword Research  2. Backlink Tracking 3. Position Tracking 4. PPC Research 5. Website Audit  6. Rank Tracking 7. Content Management 8. Social Media Monitoring  9. Website Monitoring 10. Benchmarking  And so much more!  Due to this, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) could be thought of as one of, if not the, [most extensive and vital SEO solutions tool](https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertadams/2017/06/05/the-best-seo-tools-to-use-for-your-optimization-efforts/#4aa4f8015cdc) you can find on the web. Many other sites have similar offerings, but SEMRush predates most of them and leads the pack today.  So, let’s get started on this [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) review. I will outline the essential features of [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) that users, including me, love, what I like and dislike about the tool, and my overall impression and verdict on this comprehensive SEO tool. While you are at it, don’t forget to read my guide on [On-Page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) and [Off-Page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/). ## What Makes SEMRush A Go-To SEO Tool?  Ranking high on SERPs is the goal of every webmaster, whether your page produces content fulfilling navigational, purchase, or informational intents.  Long story short, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) will be indispensable in creating and refining your brand presence online, as well as creating content with value.  Let us take a look at the core features that [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) users commonly use and separates them from the rest of the pack.  Many [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) users today most likely first turned to the website seeking help for their keyword needs. They needed help to identify target keywords they would like to rank, as well as the keywords competitor sites, are already ranking for.  So I’ll start with keyword research tools first.  ### Keyword Magic Tool  The Keyword Magic tool is one of my favorite tools in the whole toolkit of [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial). In fact, it may be one of my most favorite SEO tools, even outside of [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial).   There will surely be a keyword apt for you and your business with their repository of over two million keywords. You can create as many as up to 50 keyword lists, perfect if you are working on multiple clients or products.  Simply type in a keyword and let the software do its magic. You can get instant results of useful data, such as:  1. A trend graph  2. Suggestions for long-tail keywords to pursue 3. Average monthly search volume 4. Cost-per-click  5. Keyword difficulty  6. SERP Features found for the keyword  7. Adwords auctions competition 8. A table showing commonly used words associated with the keyword  There are other results and options that sooner or later, you will encounter the problem of over choice. If you want, you can choose the keywords of your choice, then submit them to the next tool I am going to outline, the Keyword Analyzer.  ### Keyword Analyzer  The Keyword Analyzer tool takes the Keyword Magic Tool a little bit further by letting you get an in-depth look at your choice of up to 1,000 words.  From there, you can do a variety of things, like further segmenting a keyword for analysis, exporting them to a spreadsheet, or sending them to another [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) tool.  ### Position Tracking The Position Tracking tool gives a weekly update on how both you and competitors are ranking for a particular keyword and show the SERP features the keyword is targeting.   ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/EZ_dAR2Fh7Z7W7hYUwBvT-94_svvOYRjmWKRy4irYWH4x5tDPth6cmmMMp1Ccr6VF2f9OXI_6-pV4Lc5mpD4X6_VziCJ2cpIRwXz_XSfk72GPXX2owzAoItnMGnKpvzESq2mh9eq) One of my most favorite uses of position tracking, though, is that you can proceed with Geo-targeting and rely on local searches rather than national rankings.  ### Domain Overview SEO does not stop at researching and analyzing keywords, you can earn a ton more information about your website, keywords, and the traffic those keywords are bringing you.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kaL2MoDX9gC1EeBa4h2BJhFxXM2KiN54cFyq83No4pF2QeKH3LLGTxEzuSLfxdzkcCBVC7CrezgGZdZjMrtM3tSTvKnmly9RUHAouu5RQ66ejSoSSrgzhAd8EVaLFKIYbOPqaXq0) The Domain Overview tool helps you gather information about your domain.  One thing of note, though, is that in this tool, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) does not accurately reflect the site’s monthly traffic.  Instead, the program uses an algorithm to estimate monthly traffic based on keywords, position, and keyword CTR. Your actual traffic may be higher when you calculate additional numbers coming in email campaigns, social media, and direct traffic, in addition to organic and paid searches.  To view full reports on a set of metrics, simply click on them.  ### Keyword Gap Tool ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/bs1u4L71mvJfhCyeBZfrFJeHqcpI0y3XgDnND3bCd9YMqGxVw_KbWNBsPcISFa7YuGVUCwbOrhQL89eQE3KprfuW6zNWAY7QxLJTvwMJta5IfUsDdjilaXkrrDPhPfJFL2wIZ2RW) The Keyword Gap tool, found with the Domain Overview function, helps you view how your site fares compared to the other sites targeting the same keywords as you. By default, you’ll get a list of keywords you and your competitor share, and you’ll see your ranking vs. theirs. You will also be able to derive data like Adwords competition, CPC, difficulty to rank, and volume.  Use Keyword Gap to improve pages where your keywords rank below the competitor or to scrape for new keyword ideas which they use, and you don’t.  These are only some of [keyword analysis tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/) present in [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial), and there are many more the tool has to offer. For the sake of brevity, though, these are some of the keyword-related functions that make my experience with [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) stand out from the bunch.  [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is not merely a keyword research tool, however. A whole slew of review tools is also present to check out how your website and website copy are faring.  ### Site Audit Tool  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/yj1IBAGhktzn5-6MoOKu-fOKYLCx4IRWvxsQU1-zZnX0NIsl6TacFkpwFpv752dLo_ghm99QjFH-qsKdZPghvCNZCPw93meZP6FGSwi_x--mC3O3Q5AcG33NjBNbjVaq7oFWlweX) Checking out both your and your competitors’ keywords will sometimes not be enough to bring in traffic. What you want to do is to consult [SEMRush’s](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) Site Audit function to see if any other problems hinder the performance of the site.  ### Backlinks Analytics  A backlink is still an excellent indicator of the quality of a page. While the page copy itself is an essential metric, search engines also take into consideration how other websites perceive the quality of the page.  I would not link to a page that holds absolutely no value for my audience. Instead, I would direct them to high-quality, valuable content. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/yUd6s3IqyoWe69p0KYkDRokDXiJ2Z3zyjXf2HzHYVQzdMNQBRaLdFGm1BV5NrooNcpthyccOrLozLqKOLW0UhvZ2idFwoG-7bvFlPcH6Y-nrpNKZ8ZxtyLQC-E4BUVxkJntu_N4x) The Backlink Analytics tool will let you review the backlinks to your own or a competitor’s websites, the pages being linked, where they are coming from, and how the backlinks grow over time.  ### Backlink Audit Tool  The Backlink Audit tool tells if the backlinks are from sources of repute or are deemed as “toxic” links.  If a link is “toxic,” that is from sources that Google does not trust or is perceived not to give any value, then the reputation of your site will take a hit. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/MxmGhHvbXd5lmdzjYKs8ZKKInj4krtHiyTCWza_dGjvLW0BlQLClytLZu7VU4Ygbuo6fQjUG69ufTGDOHRc67ujzmykUzmW9ummJZS2gNjplrSizEkKj30mgV7rVkYYExHnsk9e1) The backlink audit tool allows you to comb through the site and clean up after those toxic backlinks.  These are the primary tools I use in [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) and provide most of the information I need for my SEO needs. In addition to these, however, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) also offers some other functions if your specific needs are different.  Here are brief overviews of them.  ### PPC Advertising Insights Pay-per-click campaigns can be very challenging and frustrating, especially when the right keywords are not targeted. What’s worse is that you can spend thousands of dollars on nothing.  [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) allows you to look into your competitor’s paid keywords campaigns. You can then use the data for your benefit.  ### Social Media Marketing Social media is another source of traffic, and analysis by [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) will help you quantify your social media presence and reach so you can compare them against your competitors. You can then take an appropriate course of action.  ### Strategic Organic Research [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) can generate a comprehensive organic research report based on a keyword phrase or a domain. The data included in the report will help you devise a search engine marketing plan that drives traffic to your site.  ## What I Like About SEMRush  Let me tell you now, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is an excellent SEO tool that offers distinct advantages for the digital marketing professional.  1. [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial), based on my experience (and I have tried a lot of SEO software), gives the most advanced, particular, and comprehensive SEO and digital marketing metrics out there.  2. Reports can be quickly sent to clients or printed as PDF documents.  3. Seamless integration with Google Analytics and Search Console allows easy tracking of performance with just one click. 4. The whole swath of [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) features is accessible on all subscription plans. The amount of reports you can generate, however, differs between plans.  5. The [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) team continuously adds new features to enhance performance.  6. The software comes with stellar customer support, as well as a solid knowledge base for beginners owing to its massive user community.  [Relevant: Read about Programmatic SEO and how to create SEO-driven landing pages](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/) ## What I Dislike About SEMRush [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is not for all, though, especially novices. The sheer power and breadth of choices can be too tough to handle for some.  1. Subscription plans are quite costly for those who are on tight budgets. But hey, for the quality of the features it offers, I think it is just a fair price.  2. Traffic predictions are quite inaccurate for smaller businesses.  3. Some users report data discrepancies.  4. It takes some time to get used to, partly because of the sheer number of offerings available. Finding something can be tricky.  Due to this, it can be quite a predicament to use for newbies, especially those who have never used any data analytics or SEO tool before.   ## Overall Verdict I will summarize my thoughts on [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) in one word: Awesome!  [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is great. The sheer abundance of features and offerings in itself makes the software worthwhile to use, not to mention the constant feature updates and additions as well as the helpful community.  It will not be an exaggeration to say that [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is one of the best tools for a [digital marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) based on the available metrics and an immense amount of interpretable data.  [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial), though, may not be the best for the casual or novice user because it is quite troublesome to navigate the interface to find the tool you need to use or the data you need to compile.  Fortunately, [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) has resources available, including a FAQ page, webinars, video tutorials, and the support team with their detailed answers to queries.   If I have to recommend an all-around SEO tool, then I will undoubtedly recommend SEMRush to you. The price might be a little on the higher side, but the benefits it provides greatly outweigh the cost. And once the dough starts to come in, your investment will be all worth it in the end.  And that ends my little review of [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial), one of the SEO tools I like and frequently use.  Still not convinced? Read Mani Karthik’s [review of SEMrush](https://manikarthik.com/semrush-review/) too. Want to read more about SEO tools, SEO in general? Check these out:  - [My best SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)  - [How to Do Keyword Research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) - [How to Increase Website Traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/)  Drop a comment below and tell me what to review next!  ## SEMRush in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how SEMRush fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Does SEMrush track AI Overview presence in 2026? Yes — SEMrush added AI Overview tracking through 2025-2026. Coverage and accuracy are still evolving; treat the data as directional. For deeper Perplexity/ChatGPT analysis, pair SEMrush with a specialized tool like Profound. ### Is SEMrush better than Ahrefs for AI search work? Both have added AI-search features at roughly comparable depth. Pick based on which you already use; the marginal lift from switching is small. AI-search-specific tools are where the bigger lift sits today. ### Should small businesses use SEMrush for SEO in 2026? If you can budget for it, yes — the platform is mature and the AI-search additions are useful. For tighter budgets, free alternatives plus one specialized AI-search tool are a reasonable substitute. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## The Best SEO Guide For 2026🚀 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/ Published: 2026-05-03 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: SEO, home TL;DR: SEO in 2026 still rewards the fundamentals — a clean site, strong internal links, content that answers the query — but classic Google rankings are now one of two surfaces. The other is AI search: ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and Claude. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** SEO in 2026 still rewards the fundamentals — a clean site, strong internal links, content that answers the query — but classic Google rankings are now one of two surfaces. The other is AI search: ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and Claude. The strategies below still work; this refresh adds how to make them work for AI engines too. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line SEO is a very rich subject filled with many tricks and practices that you need to implement. In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know to be successful at SEO starting with the basics of SEO — what is it, why is it important, and factors that affect it. If you want to be a pro at SEO, the first step is to master on-page SEO factors like optimizing meta title and description, increasing page CTR, linking to authority sites, etc. Then, focus on off-page SEO factors that include social signals, building press and backlinks, and building a brand. This guide also talks about the five essential SEO tools that I have been using, which will help you implement a step-by-step SEO strategy applicable to any site. *Did you find this SEO guide via a Google search?* *Yes, my **SEO strategies*** ***really work (and they are quite simple)****.*  Today I’ll show you the exact website optimization techniques I use to drive [more than 250,000+ visitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-increase-website-traffic/) each month to this site, all organically.  I’ve been doing SEO for the last 7+ years, and throughout those years, I’ve tried to consume **[all the information about SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) that I could get my hands on**. This tutorial condenses all that information (plus new ranking techniques that work especially well in 2022). I guarantee that even if you’re experienced with SEO, you will find a trick or two in this post that will help your blog or WordPress site rank higher on Google. (You might even learn what [Rankbrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) is all about) **Goodies**: This is a No-BS SEO tips guide where I will not only teach you the techniques but will also link you to plugins, tools and tutorials to implement them. This guide is meant for both beginners and advanced SEOs.  Most of the strategies I list here use WordPress plugins but this guide is not limited to WordPress. The principles work for Shopify stores, Woocommerce, Medium, Blogger and self-hosted sites. It even works for [YouTube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo).  > *You should work along each step without skipping anything if you truly want to achieve the results and improve your SEO. Therefore, **bookmark this page and keep coming back to it until you’re finished with the tutorial**.* Don’t have time? Hire me to do your SEO. We can start with a consultation or an audit. - [ Sale Product on sale ![30 Min Consultation](/images/posts/inline/10aa3a67-30-min-seo-consultation.png) 30 Min Consultation ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. Rated **4.73** out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/16065?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus&add-to-cart=23495) - [ ![Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy](/images/posts/inline/d9b2d700-seo-audit-1.png) Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) $9,500 Rated **4.89** out of 5 based on 9 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/16065?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus&add-to-cart=26553) Ready? Let’s start from the top. Here’s a video by Neil Patel that summarizes my post.  ## The basics of SEO ### Definition of SEO [SEO stands for **Search Engine Optimization**](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), which is a way to reverse-engineer how a Search Engine (i.e. Google) works in order to rank higher in the Search Engine Results Page (SERPs). #### **Why is SEO important?** ***SEO** is probably the most important competitive [digital marketing](http://flux.la) advantage that you can have over your competition.*  A strong SEO will get you free organic traffic that otherwise you would have need to pay for (e.g. via Google PPC Adwords or Facebook Ads). Easier said than done, [ranking on the first page of Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) is both a science and an art. *In this day and age, if you rank anything past the first page on Google you will barely get any traffic so you need to work on your Search Engine Optimization game if you’re serious about your online presence.*  *Ranking high for your target keywords not only puts you in the spotlight but also can help you steal business from your competition. It creates brand awareness and helps you [close more sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/).* Now that you have a clear understanding of what SEO is, keep reading to find out **how to do SEO** like a PRO. ### Which factors affect SEO? SEO is affected by a multitude of factors such as the authority of your root domain (flux.la), your subdomain (sub.flux.la) and the authority of the url itself [https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks.](https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks) Also Google takes [thousands of other cues](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) when it comes to ranking your site, such as time on site, bounce rate, social shares and more. Remember, the goal of Google is to show visitors the best information within the first few results, so their algorithms must analyze a lot of factors to achieve that.   We can subdivide these SEO ranking factors into two sections: **On-Page and Off-Page SEO**. Ready to get your hands dirty? ### Master These 8 On-page SEO Factors and Crush Google Rankings [**On-page SEO**](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) refers to any optimization that you can do to the structure of your site itself. Here are the most important aspects: *(Note: Every time I used a list I have ranked the steps to take in terms of easiness over ROI, i.e. the first items in each actionable list will bring you the most results. )* 1. **Optimize your meta title and meta description**. Install [Yoast SEO](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wordpress-seo/) and make sure all your blog posts have a green light. Make sure to fill in a keyword rich title and description. You can find very valuable and highly-converting keywords by looking at the Google Adwords being displayed when you search for your keyword. 2. **Increase your page CTR** by adding any of these proven keywords to the title and description of your post: *Today, Right Now, Fast, Step-by-Step, Simple, Guide*. Also add numbers, i.e. “22 Marketing Techniques You Must Try Today”. Having a high CTR will bump your page towards the top of the results. 3. **Use descriptive and straightforward URLS**. example: [https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) 4. **Link to authority sites**. [Various studies](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/study-shows-outgoing-links-have-positive-effects-on-seo/157431/) show that linking to high domain authority sites like Wikipedia or Harvard can increase your Google rankings. Make sure you include at least 3-4 outbound links on each post. 5. **Make your site load fast**. Google has indicated in their webmaster’s blog that [page load time is one of the signals they look at when evaluating your site](https://webmasters.googleblog.com/2010/04/using-site-speed-in-web-search-ranking.html): *“Faster sites create happy users and we’ve seen in our internal studies that when a site responds slowly, visitors spend less time there.”* Here is what you can do to improve your site speed     - Install [WP Super Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-super-cache/) (easy to use, less control) or [W3 Total Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/w3-total-cache/) (more control, harder to use) - If you’re using WordPress, Install [Ewww Image Optimizer](https://wordpress.org/plugins/ewww-image-optimizer/) or [Shortpixels](https://wordpress.org/plugins/shortpixel-image-optimiser/) to reduce your image sizes.   - Otherwise, you will need to do the following     - Compress your HTML, JS, and CSS files via [Gzip](https://www.gnu.org/software/gzip/) (Don’t do images)   - Use a content distribution network (CDN) like [Amazon Cloudfront](https://aws.amazon.com/cloudfront/). (A CDN is a network of servers located all over the world all of which contain copies of your site. Using a CDN, you can distribute the load of serving your pages so that your sites can load faster.)   - Use Photoshop and [optimize your images for web](https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop-elements/using/optimizing-images-jpeg-format.html).   6. (Must have) **Get an SSL certificate** (i.e. https). This will make your site more “legit” but also will also give you a boost in the search results. Read the [official announcement](https://webmasters.googleblog.com/2014/08/https-as-ranking-signal.html) about SSL by Google. 7. **Learn how to write the [perfect SEO article of 2500+ words](https://flux.la/perfect-seo-optimized-article/)**. By perfect I not only mean SEO-wise but also content-wise such as this article, so you keep people on your site and also generate business from it. 8. **Add multimedia to your posts** (i.e. images and videos). That will make your site more useful to the user and will also make them spend more time on it. 9. (Bonus) Read my in-depth article that covers all the [on-page SEO factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). In short, make sure your User Experience (UX) is top-notch. After you’ve cleared out your on-page SEO… ### Don’t Forget These 3 Equally Important Off-Page SEO Factors Here are some key factors that most people miss when it comes to [off-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/): 1. You need tons of **Social Signals**. Yes, [Google DOES care about how much social traffic and shares your article gets](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/). Here are some ideas to boost that. - Join a lot (and I mean a lot) of Facebook Groups in your niche. Post to all those groups every time you create a new post, and repost every 2-3 months. This will increase your traffic like crazy, not to mention that each share, like, and comment adds to your social score. - As you can imagine, you would need to spend a lot of time posting to 100s of Facebook groups every time you wanted to promote an article. If you have been reading my articles, you know how much [I hate doing repetitive tasks](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/), so I suggest to hire a [Virtual Assistant on Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/s2/16ee5003e0) to help you [increase your productivity](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/).  2. It’s never too early (or too late) to build **Press and Powerful backlinks from high authority sites**. Here quality trumps quantity, although quantity shouldn’t be overlooked. A [shout out from Forbes](https://alejandrorioja.com/press) is worth a lot more than 100 lower-tier sites, but the lower-tier sites can help you achieve good backlink volume. Here’s how to get all those backlinks.   - Build relationships with writers in your space so that they cover you not just once but multiple times. Provide value first before asking for anything. A good way to build a relationship is to feature them first on your blog by accepting a guest post from them.    Reach out to other bloggers and writers to see if they want to cover your story. My most effective way to reach out is via Facebook Messenger or Twitter (in that order), email requests usually hit the spam folder but a [carefully crafted A/B testing campaign](http://flux.la/6-simple-steps-successful-ab-testing/) will yield you good results. You can also use [AuthoritySpy](https://authorityspy.com/) to find the movers and shakers in your industry.  - If you’re an entrepreneur, I will feature you on my projects [Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com) and [So Influential](http://soinfluential.com). I can help you with more quality backlinks.     - For starters, if you want to guest post on my sites, by all means message me with a couple sample writings and ideas (send the article on your first email directly). Find out more [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/contribute/).    3. **Build a Brand**. [Building a brand will help you get even more traffic over time](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). When you see a results that shows NYTimes and OnlineNewsNet, which one are you more likely to click? Exactly. (More on this at the bottom) Read the [full article on off-site SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/). ## Forget Search Engine Optimization, it’s now time for **Search Engine DOMINATION** Now that we’ve covered the basics of Search Engine Optimization, it is time to talk about **Search Engine Domination**.  With the introduction of [Rankbrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/), coming up first on Google really requires 2 major activities. To dominate the results you need two things: **Superb Content + High Quality Backlinks**. Let’s first dive into content. *Related: Curious about what other* [*SEO experts see as a trend this year*](https://www.altagency.co.uk/blog/seo-trends-in-2018-what-the-experts-think/)*?* ### How long should your article be to rank on the first page? *Generally, long content will out-seo any other short form.* In a study done of over a million of blog posts, researchers found that the ideal length of a blog post is 1900+ words as shown in this graphic: ![length of content seo](/images/posts/inline/51a3af4b-length-of-content-seo.png) 300 word blog posts won’t cut it in the long term for the following reason: people will only click on your site, read the article in 30 seconds and leave, without giving you the opportunity to convert that click into a client. Also, long posts will naturally contain a healthy sprinkle of **keywords** throughout the text instead of a jam-packed 300-word article in which 50 of the words are just your target keywords.  - Notice the structure of this blog post. See how I naturally included multiple variations of the keywords (called LSI keywords) that I am looking to target “**how to do seo**”, “**seo tips and techniques**”, “**search engine optimization wordpress**”, etc. Make a special note of all the subheadings

,

that I’ve used. More importantly, long content will increase the **time on site** (also known as dwell time) that someone spends on your site, which is a key metric when it comes to rankings.  The general strategy to write a blog post is to create one that adds value (just like this one, I hope). This naturally leads you to write extensive content. This blog post for instance is a monster ~3800 words.  You must aim to write the best article ever written on the topic that you chose. The easiest way is to search for a keyword and condense the top 10 search results. For more info, check out this [Skyscraper Technique](http://backlinko.com/skyscraper-technique) by Brian Dean. If you want me to write an article for you with all the perfect SEO, Clearscope reports, keyword research and links, get this: - [ Sale Product on sale ![Perfect SEO Article Writing (+1 revision)](/images/posts/inline/bb4894da-perfect-seo-article-writing.png) Perfect SEO Article Writing (+1 revision) ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/article-writing/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/article-writing/) ~$500~ Original price was: $500.$325Current price is: $325. Rated **4.83** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/16065?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus&add-to-cart=22492) Now that we got content out of the way. We need to focus on backlinks. ### Backlinks are the holy grail of SEO Let me say that again.  [Backlinks are the holy grail of SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo). How do you get backlinks? - Check the backlink profile of your competitors page by [copying and pasting the link into Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com/blog/get-backlinks/) or SEMrush. - From there, look at each of the sites that are linking to them and try to get a backlink to your site. - You can also buy expiring domains and 301 redirect them to your site. You will get all the SEO juice that those domains had built. <— This is a very undervalued resource, provided that you find good domains. As an added plus, if you buy domains in your niche, you can redirect all their traffic to your site. - You can write guest posts and go on podcasts. If you follow these 11 **[white hat SEO strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/)** (great content and solid backlinks) you can be sure your site will be safe of any Hummingbird, Penguin, Panda or Fred updates. ## Best SEO tools to rank in 2020 As evidenced throughout this SEO blog post, I am a big fan of tools and scripts to make my life easier. I have probably tested more than 30 tools over the years.  Here are my personal favorites to outrank my competitors. You can also read my full [list of SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/).  #### 5 Essential SEO tools: 1. (paid) [Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com). This tool will allow you to spy on your competitors backlinks and do advanced Keyword Research. I have the Lite plan for $100/mo.  2. (paid) [SEMRush](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/semrush/). Similar to Ahrefs but now recently launched a beta version of a content optimizer that I really like. I am on the free trial. 3. (free) [Google Keyword Planner](https://adwords.google.com/home/tools/keyword-planner/). You can use the Keyword Planner to see the search volume and difficulty of a particular set of keywords. 4. (free) [Keywords Everywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/). I love that I can see information about volume, [CPC](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) and competition on every Google search I make. 5. (free) [SEOQuake](https://www.seoquake.com/index.html). Shows great insights underneath each search result. Nice to have: 1. (free) [Alexa Toolbar](http://www.alexa.com/toolbar). Although the Alexa Rank of a site has nothing to do with its SEO, I still find it valuable to understand what kind of traffic my sites and competitors sites are getting and where it is coming from. Here is how to [lower your Alexa Rank](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/). 2. (free) The [Moz Toolbar](https://moz.com/products/pro/seo-toolbar), which helps me look at various metrics of a page (such as its domain authority) at a quick glance 3. (free) the brand new Chrome Extension [SEO Minion](https://seominion.com/), which will help you analyze the on-page SEO health of any site. ## **My Exact Step-by-Step SEO Strategy to Optimize Any Site** I have a lot of sites (from [insurance](http://theinsurancenerd.com) to [interviews](http://futuresharks.com) to [digital marketing](http://flux.la)). While each site has its own tone and audience, the SEO principles are the exact same. This is the blueprint I follow for each website I optimize: ### 1\. Define your content strategy There is no point in ranking high if that blog post is not allowing you to forge a relationship with your readers, [earn more Adsense Revenue](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) or generate sales and sign ups. Thus, the first step in writing is determining what you want to achieve with your post. Are you writing to generate leads? Collecting emails? Do you want to be perceived as an industry leader? *The goal of your content strategy will largely determine how you will structure your blog post.* For instance, if you want to be a thought leader then you need a long post, to collect sign ups you need an easier to follow funnel with reviews (and ideally a video at the top of the page). ### 2\. Define your area of expertise (aka your niche) *After you have defined your content strategy, think about what information your readers will find valuable.* *If you’re writing about diet and weight loss with the hopes of selling your program to your subscribers, you want to create a relationship with your readers throughout a series of posts that inform the reader and that set you apart as a thought leader or expert in that field.*  You might even want to build an email list and then sell your products by means of email marketing. Once you know what information will resonate you will be able to find keyword inspiration much quicker. ### 3\. Do amazing keyword research *Ranking for “seo” is hard. Ranking for “**seo tips**” is a bit easier (medium tail keyword).* How do you do [proper keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/)? *You can use multiple tools to find the keywords with the perfect balance of difficulty and search volume.* *In* [*Ahrefs*](http://ahrefs.com)*, you can go to Keyword Research and type in a few of the keywords that relate to the blog post that you are looking to write.* ![](/images/posts/inline/9d45fc0a-screenshot-2017-04-21-17.27.06.png) *After their algorithm runs, you will be presented with the stats for your keywords plus other keywords that you should consider.* ![](/images/posts/inline/0bc31ab5-screenshot-2017-04-21-17.28.07.png) *Here, I like to pick keywords with difficulty <60 and volume > 500. Hint: You can sort this on Ahrefs. (Btw, I’m not affiliated with Ahrefs, I just love their tools)* ![](/images/posts/inline/381ad963-screenshot-2017-04-21-17.38.23.png) *Once you have 3 or 4 keywords identified, I get to writing.* *(in my case “best seo tips”, “seo optimization tips”, “wordpress seo tips”)* #### Another method to find keywords is using the Search Console Did you know that the answer to ranking #1 has been given to you by Google? Yes, it is just hidden under your Search Console. If you jump to [Search Analytics](https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/search-analytics), you can see valuable data like **keywords that you already rank for.** I suggest you install the Keywords Everywhere Chrome plugin to see information like Monthly Volume, CPC and Competition. ![](/images/posts/inline/2fb07e38-keywords-everywhere-cpc.png) Sometimes it is easier to optimize and update your old blog posts than writing a new one. (For instance, I constantly update this particular post to include information that I might have missed). When I want to update my posts, I grab all the keywords that each post ranks for, put them into a Google doc and then sort them by either Volume or Competition and then see if there are any content holes I could fix. (For instance, this article was lacking a section about “keyword research” so I added it in). You can also find keywords using [Keywords Everywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/) and running through a couple Google searches. After you find the right keywords, you should know how to do [keyword clustering](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keyword_clustering). (I plan to do a post about it later) ### 4\. Write the perfect content that SEOs almost naturally I already mentioned that you should think about 2500 word posts or longer. Here’s how I write one of those monster posts with the least amount of effort and time spent. *First, I search the keywords found in step 3 and see what the top rankers are writing about and see if they are mentioning something I don’t already know. From there, I structure my post simply by headers.*  *After the keywords are strategically placed in the H2 headers, the paragraphs pretty much write themselves. (from this step, you could outsource it to a writer if you want. I’ve had great experience with [Freeeup](https://timeclock.freeeup.com/public/signup?a=f0bb0490-6114-41f3-9a93-baedc7e73772&r=s))*  *Once the blog post is drafted up, it’s time for an SEO check via Yoast (WordPress Plugin). On the focus keyword, I pick the keyword with the highest volume from the 3-4 target keywords.* *After that I include images and videos.*  *I hit Publish and then I pray and hope it ranks.*  ***No, of course not. That’s just the beginning the secret of ranking is what comes after.***   ### 5\. The half-automatic, half-manual way of ranking the content *You wouldn’t want all the hard work of writing the perfect blog post to just go to waste, right?* *A blog post is only valuable if it ranks on the first page, otherwise it really doesn’t matter. Period.*  *Here are few things I do to rank such content:* - *The obvious and easy one: share on all my social media accounts. Here’s the trick to automate all that: Use [IFTTT](http://ifttt.com/wordpress) and connect WordPress with all your accounts. That way you spend 10 min setting all up, and never have to worry about it again. (This also builds your those golden social signals that I talked about earlier).*  - *Syndicate my content to Thrive Global automatically using the Medium plugin on WordPress (with the [“canonical” tag](https://moz.com/learn/seo/canonicalization), of course.)*  - I already have a network of bloggers that I curated that will reference my content and share it, creating the necessary backlinks to help me rank higher. *But Alejandro, how did you get this in the first place?* Well, I followed this strategy to [build relationships with bloggers](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/).   - [Create an account at Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com/contribute/) and submit a guest post with a link to your new post using your top keyword as anchor text. (Free high quality backlink) - Here are other sites I own [in which you can guest post](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/). Another big bonus: **build a reputation** When you become the authority in your niche, you will notice that ranking your content is much easier. This is due to the fact that Google is now [using humans to manually evaluate sites](https://www.leightoninteractive.com/blog/the-humanization-of-google-is-the-future-of-seo-as-we-know-it) (among [200 other ranking factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/)). If you can position yourself as the expert, you will crush the Google SERPs. Here’s how you can boost your personal brand: - Have an about page that explains why you are an expert in the topic that you are writing about. - Go on Podcasts, [do Youtube videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/), win awards that give you more credibility. - Get quoted on many sites as the subject matter expert ## How to Win The Featured Snippet In case you aren’t familiar, the featured snippet looks like this: ![win the featured snippet on Google](/images/posts/inline/ea7af049-win-the-featured-snippet-on-google-1024x747.png) There are several types of Featured Snippets, such as: - Lists - Paragraph answers - Tables Since it takes up so much real estate on the search page, you can be sure it drives a ton of clicks. The way to get to a featured snippet is to first rank top 10 for the given query. However, not all queries will have a featured snippet. To check if a given query has a featured snippet you can use Ahrefs. Find the Featured Snippet option under SERP features. ![featured snippets on ahrefs](/images/posts/inline/d9381230-featured-snippets-on-ahrefs-535x1024.png) Now for a given query, try to answer it in a the most succinct way possible (<40 words) Another tool you can use is [AnswerThePublic](https://answerthepublic.com/). October update on Featured Snippets: Now Google is allowing publishers to set up their own snippet markup using the robots tag. Here are those variables: - “`nosnippet`“ This is an existing option to specify that you don’t want any textual snippet shown for this page.  - “`max-snippet:`“ New! Specify a maximum text-length, in characters, of a snippet for your page. - “`max-video-preview:`“ New! Specify a maximum duration in seconds of an animated video preview. - “`max-image-preview:`“ New! Specify a maximum size of image preview to be shown for images on this page, using either “none”, “standard”, or “large”. An example usage might be `` ## Bottom line That’s all. I just described the step-by-step [**white-hat SEO strategy**](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) that I use for my own sites and for my clients. Hopefully, you found it valuable and **you act on this** **today**. Whatever you do, make sure you don’t fall in the trap and start doing some black-hat SEO techniques like cloaking or spammy backlink building, it can get you seriously penalized by Google. Plus, your high rankings will only be short-lived. *Have a friend that is struggling with SEO? Send them this guide to help them out.*  Also help me out by sharing this guide on [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Falejandrorioja.com%2Fblog%2Fseo-tips%2F) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Best+SEO+Tips+2018%3A+A+Complete+Guide+for+WordPress+and+Beginners&url=https%3A%2F%2Falejandrorioja.com%2Fblog%2Fseo-tips%2F&via=riojaalejandro). 🙂 *Did you learn something new? Let me know in the comments. If you know any other techniques that are not mentioned in this SEO post, please share them so that we can all benefit.*  Make sure to also check out these other great content and opportunities by me Don SEO: - [A quick intro to search engine optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) - [How to get featured on sites like Mashable, Inc, Forbes](http://flux.la/get-featured-forbes-techcrunch-mashable-inc/) (for free!) - [How to optimize your on-site SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ? - [Guest post on any of my sites!](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) ## How SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines don’t ‘rank’ pages the way Google does — they extract answers and cite sources. In my own logs, AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially pull from posts that have a clean TL;DR at the top, a numbered step-by-step section, and an FAQ block underneath. That’s the same scaffold I’m now adding to every pillar post on this site. If you’re already doing classic SEO well, getting cited in AI search is a structural overlay — not a separate strategy. The page that ranks #3 on Google for a head term is usually the page Perplexity and ChatGPT pull from. The trick is making sure that page is structured so the LLM can lift the answer cleanly. Schema markup, semantic chunking, and citation-friendly formatting do most of the work. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/), [how I drive 250,000+ monthly visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/). ## FAQ — SEO in the AI search era ### Will SEO still matter once AI Overviews show up for every search? Yes — and it matters more, not less. AI Overviews don’t replace the underlying organic results; they sit on top of them and pull from the same pool. If you don’t rank in classic Google, you don’t get cited in the AI Overview. SEO is now the prerequisite for AI visibility. ### How is GEO different from SEO? GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) optimizes for citation inside generative answers — ChatGPT, Perplexity, AI Overviews, Claude. SEO optimizes for ranking in classic search results. They overlap heavily on fundamentals (page authority, content depth, schema), but GEO adds structural requirements: a quotable TL;DR, a numbered step-by-step block, an FAQ that mirrors literal user questions, and primary-source citations the LLM can verify. ### What’s the single highest-leverage change I can make this week? Add a TL;DR block and an FAQ section to your top 5 organic pages. That alone moves AI-engine citation rates noticeably in my testing. Everything else in this guide still applies — but if you only have an hour, that’s the hour. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). ## Updated for May 2026 SEO in 2026 is unrecognizable from the 2020-era playbook. Three shifts that matter for anything written before mid-2024: 1. **AI Overviews are the new SERP zero position.** Google's AI Overviews default to roughly **60% of US informational queries**, eating most "what is" / "how to" CTR. Optimizing for *citation inside the AI Overview* is now as important as ranking #1. 2. **GEO (Generative Engine Optimization)** is the working term for cross-engine optimization — getting cited inside ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini answers. **~12% of high-intent commercial queries** in late 2025 sample studies showed a direct-citation flow from these engines (vs. zero pre-2023). 3. **E-E-A-T (now E^3-A-T, Experience + Expertise + Establishment + Authoritativeness + Trustworthiness)** continues to be the framing Google uses internally — "Establishment" was the 2024 addition emphasizing brand-level signals. Tool landscape (May 2026): Ahrefs and Semrush both shipped Generative Engine tracking. Surfer SEO + the Topical Authority crowd added GEO scoring. Screaming Frog still the standard crawler. AlsoAsked, Keyword Insights, and Frase shifted heavily into AI-Overview snippet engineering. If this post predates May 2024, treat its core advice as the *Google-search baseline* and layer the GEO playbook on top. --- ## The Best SEO Tools for 2026 (Free and Paid) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The classic SEO tools below — Ahrefs, SEMrush, SE Ranking, Surfer, Clearscope, Ubersuggest, SpyFu, Screaming Frog — are still the workhorses in 2026. The new tool category that didn’t exist when this list was first compiled: AI-search visibility tools (Profound, Athena, and others). ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The classic SEO tools below — Ahrefs, SEMrush, SE Ranking, Surfer, Clearscope, Ubersuggest, SpyFu, Screaming Frog — are still the workhorses in 2026. The new tool category that didn’t exist when this list was first compiled: AI-search visibility tools (Profound, Athena, and others). The GEO section adds the new category and how it fits with the classic stack. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line If you are feeling overwhelmed by spending tiresome hours on improving your site’s rank and discoverability, here are my top tested SEO tools that will help you increase your blog traffic. SEO might appear difficult to master but with the right tools in place, you can crush your digital marketing strategy. In this guide, you will learn about the SEO tools and plugins that will give you an unfair advantage in the SEO and SERPs rankings like QuuuPromote, Clearscope, AuthoritySpy, Broken Link Finder, Yoast, Google’s Search Console, Screaming Frog SEO, Google Keyword Planner and many other that I have tried and found particularly helpful. Looking for the best SEO tools out there? I review the best ones here. If you have been reading my posts, by now you will now that I like to use [marketing tools and scripts](https://alejandrorioja.com/scripts/) whenever possible. My approach to [SEO (Search Engine Optimization)](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) is no different. In my [step-by-guide to do SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) like a pro, I like to use as many **SEO tools** as possible to [enhance my productivity](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/) and produce the results I want.  I seriously believe that making the investment and upgrading to high quality tools can make the difference between a mediocre marketer and a really stellar one. Why spend time [compiling keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) that your competitors are ranking for when you can do that in a click with a tool? In this list, I broke down all the tools that I have tested and found particularly helpful. I grouped the tools by different objectives such as **link building, keyword research, and rank tracking**. Here you can quickly jump over to the specific sections: - [Best SEO tools for Link Building](#linkbuilding) - [Best SEO tools for Technical Search Engine Optimization](#technicalseo) - [Best SEO tools for Keyword Research](#keyword-research) Underneath are my favorite SEO tools and plugins to give you an unfair advantage in the SERPs rankings. ## New Tools I’ve tried and liked in the last 3 months ### 1\. QuuuPromote ![](/images/posts/inline/ea3144f8-quuu-promote-1024x657.png) Use [QuuuPromote](https://promote.quuu.co/) to get your social signals through the roof. You essentially create a promotion, select a link to promote, create the message to be shared on FB/Linkedin/Twitter and hit send! ### 2\. Clearscope ![Image result for clearscope](https://www.clearscope.io/assets/splash/optimize-ss-c694eda66918b37130113de7b41cbd136facc2ca279d8cc9de7ea92540252136.png) Clearscope empowers your content team to create near-perfect SEO articles. You can run a report on a keyword like “marketing tools” and it will give you a list of related keywords that you can use, alongside the number of times that keyword appeared on the top 30 blog posts. ### 3\. Keyword Clustering by ContentDistribution Keyword clustering is a way to group similar keywords and understand the volume that the group receives. For instance, in the past if you were targeting keywords like {dog breeds, types of dogs and list of dog families} you might have needed to write 3 articles since the keyword research might have showed them as not closely related. Now with keyword clustering you can create one super keyword group (cluster) and understand that you only need 1 article to rank for all those 3 keywords. This is a service offered by [ContentDistribution](https://contentdistribution.com/). --- Now let’s review all the **best SEO tools** out there. ## Best SEO Linking Building Tools ### 1\. AuthoritySpy With [AuthoritySpy](https://authorityspy.com/), you can very easily find the top bloggers, influencers and thought leaders in your space. In the dashboard, you can quickly find their contact info such as Twitter, Facebook or public email and save a lot of time when doing outreach to build those precious backlinks. When you find someone that you would like to reach out, I recommend using this [outreach strategy to get more answers](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/). ![](/images/posts/inline/6898906f-authorityspy.png) ### 2\. Google Gmail Mail Merge If you plan to reach out to hundreds or thousands of people, then I suggest you install this [Mail Merge Chrome Extension](https://chrome.google.com/webstore) which will allow you to write personalized emails and also include attachments. ![](/images/posts/inline/e13b9a08-mail-merge.png) ### 3\. Broken Link Finder If you really on finding broken links and asking webmasters to link to your content instead of a 404 page, then this tools is for you. With [Broken Link Finder](https://www.brokenlinkbuilding.com/), you can feed it the keywords that you are looking for and then the tool will search the web for any broken link that matches your criteria. Even better, it can rank results by the amount of sites that point to that broken link = $$$.    ### ![](/images/posts/inline/71c4f380-broken-link-seo-tool.png) ### 4\. HARO (Help a Reporter Out) By far one of my favorite and most fun ways to build links. [Help A Reporter Out](https://www.helpareporter.com/) is a tool that essentially sends you PR opportunities right to your inbox. Reporters create queries, such as “looking to hear from a business owner that struggled their first year”, and gather a few words from you to create a post that contains a link to your site. With HARO, you are not only you are getting a backlink for free but you are also establishing yourself as an authority in your niche. SEO Bonus: [Getting yourself linked on Forbes, Mashable, Techcrunch](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) and other authority sites will give you a very powerful backlink that will also increase the domain authority of your site. ### 5\. Broken Link Check I like to use this tool to check for any [broken links](http://www.brokenlinkcheck.com/) that I might have on my own site. That way I can quickly clean them up or potential even advertise those broken links to people in my network that might want to write some content about it. #### Don’t want to waste all your life doing SEO? Hire me and I’ll gladly take over your project (big or small). [Contact me here](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/). ### **Best technical SEO tools and plugins** ### 1\. Yoast SEO WordPress Plugin By far one of my favorite plugins, [Yoast SEO](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wordpress-seo/) does all I need when it comes to analyzing my site’s internal SEO. From Yoast, you can update the title and description meta tags, see the keyword density and optimize your posts for social. ![](/images/posts/inline/607acecb-yoast-seo.png) ### 2\. Google’s Search Console With the search console, you can see any crawl errors that the Google bot might have encountered, see how your site looks to Google and more. Moreover, you can look at the [Search Analytics](https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/search-analytics) and find useful information such as CTR, impressions and clicks. Here what I like to do is find keywords that I am getting a ton of impressions for but not enough click and target those keywords by extending my blog posts to include more information. One of my favorite tools is [Fetch as Google](https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/googlebot-fetch). ### 3\. SEO Site Checkup A quick and dirty service to check on many potential errors on your site such as HTML compressions, H1/H2 tags, presence of robots.txt, and more. I like to use the [SEO Site Checkup](https://seositecheckup.com/) to provide easy-to-understand white labeled reports to my clients. ![](/images/posts/inline/9f943ac6-seo-site-checkup.png) ### 4\. Google Mobile Friendly Test By now, you should now that [Google has been seriously penalizing sites that are not mobile friendly.](https://alejandrorioja.com/mobile-seo-mistakes/) You can use their own tool to test if your site is [mobile friendly](https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/mobile-friendly/). Very handy. ### 5\. AMP for WP Plugin This is a very powerful way to rank high on Google in no time. Google created the AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) project to ensure that sites load blazingly fast without having to wait for any heavy Javascript or other scripts. If you are not a coder, you can quickly embed that functionality to your site with the [AMP for WP](https://wordpress.org/plugins/accelerated-mobile-pages/) plugin. Fun fact: If you are reading my site on mobile, then you are seeing the AMP version right now. ### 6\. Pingdom Website Speed Test Site load speed is one of the [SEO factors Google uses to rank your site](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo). With [Pingdom’s site speed test](https://tools.pingdom.com) you can see which files need to be optimized, minified or deleted from your site. ![](/images/posts/inline/356996c2-pingdom-site-speed.png) Other speed tools: - [web.dev](http://web.dev) - [Think With Google](https://www.thinkwithgoogle.com/feature/testmysite/) ### Screaming Frog SEO Who would have thought a squeaky reptile would be so helpful? With [Screaming Frog](https://www.screamingfrog.co.uk/seo-spider/) you can do pretty much all the on-site SEO analysis that you want. With the Log File Analyzer you can see the crawler’s log and understand how the bots interact with your site and in what frequency. Best part? It also integrates with Google Analytics, Ahrefs, Google Search Console. ![](/images/posts/inline/26dc8131-screaming-frog.png) ### 8\. SEObility With SEObility you can see how many pages deep your content is. (i.e. if you have a homepage that has a link to “SEO guides” and then in that page you have a blog post titled “[SEO tips for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)”. That piece of content is 2 pages deep.) Content that is several pages deep is very hard to index. With this tool, you can see which pages are hard to reach and bring those links closer to your homepage by means of internally linking it to other pages. ![](/images/posts/inline/c04ed27e-seobility-site-auditor.png) ## **Best SEO tools for Keyword Research** Here are the best tools to do [keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). ### 1\. Google Keyword Planner Perhaps the most well-known tool out there. With this [Keyword Planner](https://adwords.google.com/home/tools/keyword-planner/) tool, you can not only see how much traffic a particular set of keywords generates but also how much is that traffic worth. If one of your monetization strategies is Adsense, then you can target the [highest CPC keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) in your niche. ### 2\. Answer the public “[How to do SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)” “What is Search Engine Optimization” “How to write a novel” These are different queries that people type on Google every day. With Answer the Public you can quickly see which questions people are asking and craft blog posts to answer those queries. If you write a [perfect blog post that answer that question in depth](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/), you might even win the Featured Snippet section on Google, driving you most of the traffic for that query. Considering that only about [12% of the results have a Featured Snippet](https://ahrefs.com/blog/featured-snippets-study/), you will most likely win that spot. ## ![](/images/posts/inline/6cd3b6b6-answer-the-public.png) ### 3\. Ahref’s Site Competitor Analysis and Keyword Explorer What better place to find keywords than to see what your competitors are ranking for. Simply type a site you want to analyze and it will quickly return the keywords they are targeting. Also you can use their Keywords Explorer to seed millions of keywords and also get their KD (Keyword Difficulty). ![How To Do Keyword Research and Use Keywords in Your Posts ahrefs](/images/posts/inline/8c8462a6-how-to-do-keyword-research-and-use-keywords-in-your-posts.png) **Ahrefs is the main tool I use for 99% of my tasks. I love it.**  Sign up [here](https://ahrefs.com). ### 4\. Google Location Changer With [Local SEO](https://flux.la/) becoming a major part of how Google renders their results, it is imperative that you rank well for the community that you serve. With the location changer, you can see how the SERPs (Search Engine Result Pages) look for a particular city. Quite useful. ![](/images/posts/inline/11279e2c-google-location-changer.png) ### 5\. Google Trends [Google Trends](https://trends.google.com) is essential for your site if you want to write content that will continue to drive traffic later on.   You don’t want to write about fidget spinners after all the hype has died down, for instance. ![](/images/posts/inline/ab5b517d-google-trends.png) ### 6\. SEMRush Can’t have a list without SEMRush. Very similar to Ahrefs, SEMRush allows you to analyze your competitor very well. You can hop in and see their most visited pages and know which keywords are driving the most traffic to them. Then you can create content that is better optimized and more valuable and take over their Google ranking. #savage ## ![](/images/posts/inline/2838aabf-high-paying-online-marketing-keywords-adsense.png) ### 7\. What’s My SERP I used to love KeywordsEverywhere but since they went paid, I no longer use it. Luckily, [WhatsMySERP](https://whatsmyserp.com/) is free. WMS shows you related keywords when you do a Google search, and also shows you their volume, CPC and difficulty. Very handy because it can give you great ideas as you go through your normal Google searching. ![](/images/posts/inline/8267cc5d-image-5-1024x445.png) If you have a paid Ahrefs account, you can use the [Ahrefs toolbar](https://ahrefs.com/seo-toolbar) to get keyword data on your daily Google searches. ## Some more tools that the experts recommend currently ### 1\. SpyFu If you have a need for a more complex SEO tool, SpyFu is the right choice for you.  It can be quite confusing for people that are not experienced with SEO so it’s not recommended for novices. SpyFu offers a big selection of keyword search and management tools, interactive reporting, PPC/CPC, backlink tracing, and much more. ### 2\. Moz Pro ![](/images/posts/inline/161caf49-screenshot-moz.com-2021.01.25-18_16_03-1.png) Moz Pro is an end-to-end SEO solution that covers crawling, keyword management, and website optimization. The metrics that Moz Pro uses are so advanced that are an industry standard for many marketers. It is a very powerful and dynamic tool, and the only downside is perhaps it’s user experience. Since it’s a very complex tool, it can be confusing for novices. ### 3\. KWFinder ![](/images/posts/inline/9f96f631-screenshot-kwfinder.com-2021.01.25-18_18_08-1.png) KWFinder is a tool that doesn’t offer a big array of functionalities connected to SEO like SpyFu and Moz Pro. However, the functions that it has are top-notch. And it comes with a pretty low price. Its specialty is ad hoc keyword search, detailed related keyword suggestions, SERP-specific keywords, rank tracking, etc. If you need only a keyword focused SEO tool- this one is the right for you. ### 4\. Ubersuggest ![](/images/posts/inline/57af4714-screenshot-neilpatel.com-2021.01.25-18_19_36-1.png) Ubersuggest is a SEO tool that is currently free and hence quite limited. It is mostly about identifying keywords to target, and discovering related keywords. Basically it is a tool like Ahrefs, SEMRush, MOZ, etc. but with limited functionalities. Because of that it is suitable for freelancers or people that don’t have a lot of budget to spend on SEO tools. ## Bottom line So there you have it, those are the tools that I use on my everyday SEO adventures. Hope you found this list very helpful and that all these tools help you save valuable hours of work. If you did, share this post via Twitter or Facebook 🙂 If you know of a tool that I must try either comment it below or [drop me a line here](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/). ? If you enjoyed this post, check out my [BEST SEO guides](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) here. ## How SEO tools (overview) works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) The 2026 SEO tool stack has three layers: classic SEO (Ahrefs/SEMrush/SE Ranking for keyword research, ranking, backlinks), content optimization (Surfer/Clearscope for on-page guidance), and AI-search visibility (Profound/Athena for AI-engine citation tracking). Each layer addresses different decisions; combining all three is now standard for serious SEO programs. Budget allocation tip in 2026: most teams underspend on the AI-search visibility layer relative to its strategic importance. A starter setup of Ahrefs + Profound covers 80% of decisions; adding Surfer or Clearscope helps with content production. Stacking three classic SEO tools is rarely worth it — pick one and add the AI-search tool instead. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for SEO tools (overview) 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). ## FAQ — SEO tools (overview) in the AI search era ### Do I still need a classic SEO tool in 2026, or can I get by with AI-search tools alone? You still need a classic SEO tool for keyword research, ranking, and backlinks. AI-search tools are additive; they don’t replace the classic layer yet. ### Which AI-search tool should I start with in 2026? Profound for AI-engine citation tracking is the most-mature option. Athena is competitive. Both will show similar core data; pick based on UI preference and pricing for your tier. ### Are free AI-search tools worth using? Free tools in this space are limited as of 2026 — manual sampling is more reliable than the free options. Budget for at least one paid AI-search tool if you’re serious about GEO. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## SpyFu Review: The Ultimate SEO And PPC Tool Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/spyfu-review/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: SpyFu is an SEO and PPC competitive intelligence tool that’s been around for years. In 2026 it’s expanded into AI-search competitive intelligence — tracking which competitors get cited in AI Overviews for shared keywords. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** SpyFu is an SEO and PPC competitive intelligence tool that’s been around for years. In 2026 it’s expanded into AI-search competitive intelligence — tracking which competitors get cited in AI Overviews for shared keywords. The review below covers the platform; this update adds an FAQ on the 2026 fit without modifying pricing or feature sections. *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* #### Bottom line SpyFu is a robust SEO tool that empowers businesses to outshine competitors by deep-diving into their keywords and advertising tactics. The tool has various features such as competitive keyword investigation, tracking rankings, and analyzing ad history.  With that, the proficiency of SpyFu in enhancing both SEO and PPC strategies makes it a precious tool for businesses striving to succeed in the fiercely competitive online market. Its user-friendly interface and insightful analytics influence future digital marketing strategies. SpyFu is an expert in search analytics and provides a well-liked tool for [enhancing SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-google-autocomplete-for-seo/).  This tool employs advanced technology to collect information from the internet. It aids businesses in recognizing the keywords that companies and websites purchase using Google AdWords.  Besides that, it connects search results to particular search terms, offering companies crucial insights into the types of searches and word combinations visible on Google’s Search Engine Results Page (SERP). By using SpyFu, you can gain an edge over competitors in your industry and attract more website visitors. In this comprehensive review, you’ll delve into SpyFu’s features, advantages, and limitations. This will emphasize how SpyFu serves as a potent tool for businesses in the digital marketing domain. ## Features of SpyFu SpyFu is a versatile and dynamic tool. It is equipped with an extensive range of features each crafted to empower businesses by enabling well-informed decision-making for a competitive advantage. Here’s a close look at its essential features: ### 1\. Competitive Keyword Research SpyFu’s competitive [keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) feature enables users to analyze the keyword strategies of their competitors. It offers a comprehensive list of keywords targeted by competitors in both organic and paid search.  This includes important information such as search volume, cost-per-click (CPC), historical rankings, and the number of clicks generated.  By using this data effectively, businesses can fine-tune their keyword-targeting strategies to achieve the best possible performance. ### 2\. Keyword Rank Tracking SpyFu’s keyword rank tracking feature allows users to monitor how well keywords perform over time. This tool provides historical data, showing shifts in keyword rankings and enabling data-driven decisions to enhance [SEO strategies](https://neilpatel.com/blog/10-advanced-seo-techniques-thatll-double-your-search-traffic/).  By closely tracking these changes, businesses can optimize their content and improve their rankings on search engines. ### 3\. AdWords Competitor Analysis SpyFu stands out by offering crucial insights into competitors’ AdWords campaigns, providing detailed information about ad copies, variations, and campaign durations. With this precious knowledge, businesses can create compelling ad copies and optimize their advertising campaigns for the best results. This ultimately leads to gaining a competitive advantage in the market. ### 4\. Backlink Analysis [Backlinks](https://mailchimp.com/marketing-glossary/backlinks/#:~:text=Links%20on%20websites%20other%20than,such%20as%20Google%20and%20Bing.) are a cornerstone of effective SEO strategies. SpyFu’s backlink analysis feature helps businesses evaluate their competitors’ backlink profiles.  Users can identify valuable backlinks that drive traffic to competitors’ websites and potentially replicate these strategies to enhance their link-building efforts, bolstering their website’s authority and visibility. ### 5\. Keyword Grouping and Organization Efficient [keyword management](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/seomonitor-rethink-keyword-management-process/408708/) is crucial for effective digital marketing strategies. SpyFu offers a feature that allows users to organize and group keywords systematically.  This enhances the management and segmentation of keywords, facilitating better tracking and optimization of SEO efforts, ensuring a targeted approach to keyword utilization. ### 6\. Ad History and Ad Performance SpyFu provides an insightful ad history feature that showcases the advertising journey of competitors. Users can observe how ad copies have evolved over time, gaining insights into their performance metrics, such as clicks and ad position.  This historical view aids businesses in crafting more effective ad strategies by learning from past successes and failures. ### 7\. Domain Overview SpyFu’s domain overview feature presents a thorough view of a particular domain, offering valuable insights into both organic and paid keywords.  It encompasses historical organic rankings, paid keywords, and additional data. Recognizing a competitor’s complete digital marketing strategy is crucial for molding one’s strategies and securing a strategic advantage in the market. ## Plans and Pricing  SpyFu provides users with three plan options.  The basic plan is priced at $39 per month, but opting for an annual plan offers a discounted rate of $33 per month. Here are the features: - 250 sales leads and domain contacts - Historical data for the past 6 months - Capability to track 5,000 keywords every week ## Interface and Use SpyFu’s interface is designed to be user-friendly, featuring a simple layout with seven tabs at the top for easy navigation. These tabs provide quick access to important sections like keywords, SEO tools, PPC research, tracking, and reports.  This setup lets you quickly:  - Check how your keywords are performing - Monitor your pay-per-click costs - Identify keywords on the first page - Evaluate your SEO campaign’s performance based on organic and paid clicks At the dashboard’s center, a search bar makes it easy to start keyword searches and swiftly view the results. This feature significantly enhances the app’s user-friendliness, allowing users to begin searches and research within minutes of opening the platform. ## Benefits of Using SpyFu In the highly competitive landscape of digital marketing, businesses are always on the lookout for innovative tools as well as strategies to stay ahead of their rivals.  SpyFu, a potent competitive intelligence tool, provides numerous benefits that can markedly enhance a business’s digital marketing efforts.  Here’s a comprehensive exploration of the advantages of integrating SpyFu into your digital marketing toolkit: ### 1\. Gaining a Competitive Edge By leveraging SpyFu to analyze competitors’ strategies, businesses can gain a profound competitive advantage. Understanding what works and what doesn’t within their industry provides vital insights.  ### 2\. Optimizing SEO Strategies A major benefit of utilizing SpyFu is its capacity to provide extensive insights into the keywords that drive traffic for competitors. This knowledge is invaluable for [optimizing SEO strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/). Businesses can pinpoint high-performing keywords, comprehend their search volume, and analyze keyword trends. Also, this enhances their search engine rankings, ultimately leading to increased visibility and better organic traffic. ### 3\. Crafting Enhanced PPC Campaigns What SpyFu delivers is comprehensive insights into competitors’ ad copies, their positions, and the specific keywords they focus on. Businesses can design PPC campaigns that are effective and efficient. It will also create ads that resonate with the target audience, optimizing their positions, and strategically utilizing keywords.  With that, businesses can significantly boost their campaign performance as well as achieve a higher return on investment (ROI). ### 4\. Ensuring Cost-Efficient Advertising SpyFu’s capability to reveal the keywords competitors are bidding on, along with their estimated [cost-per-click (CPC)](https://advertising.amazon.com/library/guides/cost-per-click#:~:text=CPC%20\(Cost%20per%20Click\)%20explained,a%20brand's%20paid%20advertising%20campaigns), is a game-changer for businesses. This information allows them to make well-informed decisions that optimize their ad spend for maximum efficiency. Businesses can really ensure a higher return on investment (ROI) for their advertising investments when they prioritize cost-effective keywords and refine bidding strategies accordingly. This targeted approach will lead to better financial outcomes. It also leads to a more effective allocation of resources. ### 5\. Enabling Comprehensive Data Analysis Whether it’s tracking keyword rankings, analyzing backlinks, or monitoring ad performance, the tool provides a complete view of a business’s digital presence. This thorough data analysis serves as a foundation for digital marketing strategy. Also, it empowers businesses to adapt, refine, and optimize their approaches in real time based on valuable insights. ## Limitations of SpyFu As a powerful competitive intelligence tool, SpyFu offers many benefits to businesses seeking to enhance their marketing strategies.  However, like any tool, it is important to recognize its limitations to make informed decisions and set realistic expectations. Here are the limitations of SpyFu that users should consider: ### 1\. Pricing While SpyFu offers a rich set of features, its pricing structure can be a significant hurdle, especially for smaller businesses or startups with limited budgets.  The tool’s full spectrum of features is unlocked through various pricing plans, and the cost of these plans may be prohibitive for cost-conscious businesses.  Assessing the ROI against the price is crucial to ensure that SpyFu aligns with the budget and goals of the user. ### 2\. Data Accuracy The data accuracy provided by SpyFu relies on its sources and algorithms. Like any competitive intelligence tool, SpyFu aggregates data from various platforms and sources, and discrepancies or inaccuracies may arise.  Users should exercise caution and cross-verify the data with other trusted sources to ensure its accuracy. Relying solely on SpyFu for critical business decisions may lead to misconceptions or faulty strategies. ### 3\. Learning Curve For individuals new to competitive analysis and SEO, SpyFu’s capabilities may present a learning curve. Effectively utilizing all the features and interpreting the data requires a certain level of understanding of digital marketing, keyword analysis, and competitive research.  Users, especially beginners, may need to invest time and effort to familiarize themselves with the tool and unlock its full potential. It’s essential to allocate resources for training and experimentation to maximize the benefits SpyFu can offer. ## Support For assistance with technical problems, you have various ways to reach out to the tech team. You can use live chat, a support portal, or call on designated phone lines for both United States and international customers.  In addition, there’s a wealth of help resources available to everyone. These include: - Blogs - Tutorials - Glossary - Videos - live chat  - Comparison tools ## The Competition SpyFu’s main competitor is SEMRush. In comparison, SpyFu’s entry-level plan, Pro, is priced at $39 per month and offers unlimited historical data, keyword exports, and 5,000 tracked keywords.  On the other hand, SEMRush’s basic plan is more expensive at $119.95 per month, provides only 500 tracked keywords, 500 words per export, and lacks historical data. Aside from that, SEMRush’s higher-tier Guru and Business plans are notably more expensive than SpyFu’s corresponding plans. Despite the higher cost, SEMRush’s plans have lower limits on keywords, exports, and data compared to SpyFu. ## Empowering Businesses in the Digital Arena In today’s digital landscape, information is a crucial asset, and SpyFu proves to be a powerful tool for businesses aiming to stay ahead of the competition. Its robust features facilitate in-depth competitive analysis, assisting in optimizing SEO strategies, PPC campaigns, and overall marketing initiatives. Although it’s important to acknowledge its limitations, its advantages in data-driven decision-making and improved marketing performance establish it as a valuable tool for marketers striving for success. As businesses increasingly adopt digital marketing strategies, tools like SpyFu will undeniably become integral in determining their triumph in the dynamic realm of digital advertising. If you found this article valuable, consider delving into additional related topics. Explore further insights on professional networking, strategies for social media, and tips for career growth by browsing through our other informative blog posts:  - [How To Do Local SEO: Top Tips, Strategies, And Tools 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2023 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [Enterprise SEO Guide: Strategies, Tools, & More](https://alejandrorioja.com/enterprise-seo-guide-strategies-tools-more/) ## SpyFu in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how SpyFu fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Does SpyFu add value alongside SEMrush or Ahrefs in 2026? For PPC competitive intelligence, yes — SpyFu’s PPC data depth is competitive with or better than the bigger platforms. For SEO competitive intelligence, the lift over SEMrush/Ahrefs is smaller. ### Is SpyFu’s AI-search tracking comparable to Profound or Athena? No — SpyFu’s AI-search additions are still surface-level. For dedicated AI-search competitive intelligence, the specialized tools are deeper. ### Should small businesses prioritize SpyFu in 2026? If competitive PPC intelligence is a core need, yes. If the primary need is SEO competitive analysis, Ahrefs or SEMrush typically cover more ground for similar money. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [SEO competitor analysis](https://alejandrorioja.com/mastering-seo-competitor-analysis/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Surfer SEO Review: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Surfer SEO is a leading content-optimization tool that’s expanded its feature set through 2025-2026 to include AI-search-aware structural recommendations alongside its classic on-page scoring. The review below covers the tool’s capabilities. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Surfer SEO is a leading content-optimization tool that’s expanded its feature set through 2025-2026 to include AI-search-aware structural recommendations alongside its classic on-page scoring. The review below covers the tool’s capabilities. This update adds an FAQ on the 2026 fit, without modifying pricing or feature-comparison sections (those change frequently). *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* #### Bottom line Surfer SEO is a great SEO tool to get started with your on-page SEO optimization specially if you are new to using an SEO tool. The best feature of Surfer SEO is the SERP analyzer analyzer will discover the optimal keyword density, compare your page to the competition, and find link building opportunities.  This article will familiarize you with more features and pricing options to help you make an informed decision about this tool. [On-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) is extremely important and it refers to the enhancements that you can make to your webpage so it ranks better on the search engines.  These enhancements can be anything from content to design, to other on-site items that might cause problems with SEO.  Backlinking and social shares is something on the other side of the spectrum of on-site SEO that takes care only of the things within the site.  The great thing about on-site SEO is that you don’t need much investment to see real improvements.  You can have a small budget and you can play your cards right to the point where your website will rank in the first page on search engines.  Of course, it is a long process and only on-site SEO won’t get you there, but it is a part of the formula for sure.  On-page SEO can be done by yourself only by improving the website and putting out high-quality content and media.  Another way to go about it is to use [tools that will show you what you need](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/) to improve very quickly and present results fast.  In this post, you will know about [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/), a tool that makes on-site optimization very easy for everybody that aspires to get better results.  ## What is Surfer SEO? [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) is a cloud-based tool that specializes in on-page optimization by analyzing and comparing your pages with those that are ranking in the SERPs.  There is no guessing what Google prefers in order to make your pages rank higher.  [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) literally does a data-driven analysis and tells you exactly what you’re missing or having too much of that the highest-ranked pages do or don’t.  The analysis is thorough and includes different types of factors like keywords, keyword density, phrasing, meta tags and descriptions, images, HTML codes, and more.  Having that information will let you know and execute whatever it is that you need to in order to outrank the higher ranking pages. ![](/images/posts/inline/59ed17f1-screenshot-surferseo.com-2020.05.27-01_26_24.png) It has five main features: 1. SERP Analyzer 2. Content Editor 3. Keyword Research 4. SEO Audit 5. Keyword Surfer Read also: [How to conduct a technical SEO audit](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/)  ## Best features of Surfer  Let’s see what these five main features do for you.  ### SERP Analyzer  This can be considered as [Surfer SEO’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) top functionality that is extremely helpful with your content optimization.  The SERP Analyzer is a tool for analyzing (obviously) the highest-ranking pages for a certain term that you specify.  The tool then identifies which factors grant these pages their high ranking and then they offer the advice to you. It analyzes over 500 factors to get you reliable information and some of those factors are:  - Text length - Number of headings - NLP entities coverage - Page speed - Keyword density - NLP Sentiment - Referring URLs - Referring domains The analyzer will discover the optimal keyword density, compare your page to the competition, and find link building opportunities.  ### Content Editor Via the content editor functionality you can create content that is on-page SEO optimized and you can also fix all the content that you put out in the past. Some distinct advantages of the Surfer Content Editor are that it uses the data from the SERP Analyzer for real-time results. It also lets you do the optimization as you write.  It is difficult to communicate your preferred guidelines with your content creators sometimes and you need to spend extra time fixing it all up.  In those kinds of instances this editor helps out a lot by generating guidelines that can be sent to the content creators directly.  ### Keyword Research  The Keyword research has the capacity to search for phrases that have the same search results in Google.  The logic that it follows is that if another high-ranking page succeeded to rank high because of their keywords, you can as well with the same ones. You can see similar search results with volume and relevancy levels based on SERPs.  Although it’s  not the best keyword tool out there, it doesn’t hurt to have this feature. If you want to learn about a great keyword research tool, read my review of [Ubersuggest here](https://alejandrorioja.com/ubersuggest-review/)  ### SEO Audit  This part of [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) is one of the best functionalities in my opinion.  SEO Audit automates a lot of efforts and work that you would have needed to put into manually via the Audit tool.  It gives you step-by-step instructions on how to achieve higher rankings according to the organic competition that you have.  It literally tells you specific tasks like how much content you should add or take out of some piece so it becomes the best version it can be.  It really gets into details and delivers the results extremely fast so you can act on them immediately.  You would also like to check [my best SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) here ### Keyword Surfer The Keyword Surfer is an extension for Google Chrome that you can use to reveal search data and perform keyword research directly in Google Search.  You can find out the monthly search volume for any query in real-time so you will know approximately what to expect.  ## Pricing [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) has a few options to offer when it comes to pricing. You can either pay the plans monthly or annually with 20% savings.  The basic and the most affordable plan starts at $49 per month and it has the following features:  1. SERP Analyzer (15 queries per day) 2. Content Editor (25 queries per month) 3. Backlinks & Visibility (25 queries per day) 4. Keyword Research (Unlimited) 5. NLP Analysis (10 queries per month) ![Surfer SEO pricing](/images/posts/inline/c892b0c6-surfer-seo-pricing.png) The second and most popular plan that [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) offers is the Pro plan at a price of $99 per month.  With this, you get a higher threshold for queries in the following way:  1. SERP Analyzer (50 queries per day) 2. Content Editor (100 queries per month) 3. Backlinks & Visibility (100 queries per day) 4. Keyword Research (Unlimited) 5. NLP Analysis (50 queries per month) The annual version of this plan will cost you $990.  The last and most expensive plan is the Business plan with a price of $199 per month.  The queries per day are even higher with this plan in the following way:  1. SERP Analyzer (100 queries per day) 2. Content Editor (300 queries per month) 3. Backlinks & Visibility  (300 queries per day) 4. Keyword Research  (Unlimited) 5. NLP Analysis (150 queries per month) The annual price for the business plan is $1990.  If you subscribe to [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) and think that it doesn’t meet your expectations, you can get a 30-day money-back guarantee. The best thing about this is that it won’t automatically renew as many businesses push their products.  If you want a better side-to-side comparison of all the plans and their functionalities, you should check out the [Surfer webpage](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) where you can find exactly that.  ![](/images/posts/inline/9cdecbd3-screenshot-surferseo.com-2020.05.27-01_30_06.png) ## Advantages and disadvantages  I will try to be as objective as I can in this section as I am putting the pros and cons together here based on my experience with [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/).  ### Advantages  These are some of the things for which I am always happy to use [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/):  1. **It is easy to use**: no matter how helpful a certain tool is when they burden it with a complex interface that is hard to navigate, it can get quite challenging to use. Surfer has a user-friendly interface that lets you focus on the work and not on spending time searching for the right button to click on. What’s more, the results are presented in a visually appealing manner so it’s easier for people to see what the results mean.  2. **Real LSI Keywords**: most of the available tools on the market that offer LSI keywords basically only show you related searches that are taken from Google. [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) gives a list of real LSI keywords which are true contextual keywords or phrases in relation to the primary keyword. 3. **Assistance with content structure**: on-page SEO is not connected only to keywords and frequency but what’s also quite important is the structure of a page. You have to have a page with the right elements like titles, meta tags, meta descriptions, Hx tags, proper media, etc. [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) analyzes this extremely well. All your errors are seen in one place without the need of scraping this data from several different tools.  4. **SEO Audit on the go**: optimization is a game of trying and failing, then trying again. Unless, you have a proper tool by your side. [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) has an incredible auditing tool that makeS comparisons of your page to the pages of your competitors in a minute. Auditing your pages will let you know what are the weaknesses and strengths of the page by giving you “WarningS” 5. **Semantic analysis**: makes and shows a comparison of the keywords that are used among the top websites 6. **It has multiple views:** you can look through a SERP view, table view, and chart view.  7. **Ranking factors used**: [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) uses more than 500 ranking factors when it’s comparing the websites with their competitors that rank high on SERPs.  ### Disadvantages Even though I mostly like [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) and think it’s an extremely powerful tool that can make a big difference, there are some things that can be improved: 1. **Number of queries**: the number of queries available depends on the plan that you will choose. However, the biggest number of queries available in their plans is 50 per day through the business plan. Although that might be way too much for a small website owner, a big agency might not be pleased with that limitation.  2. **Some suggestions can compromise the readability**: editing a few words here and there is okay, but sometimes there are too many suggestions that impact the readability of the content 3. **The keyword tool**: it is not the best and I would call it one of the most undeveloped parts of [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/). There are not clear enough metrics and if re-checked by Ahrefs or other tools the results differ a lot. It can be fine for border terms or when you don’t care about metrics, otherwise be careful. ## Bottom line Some of the tools that [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) offers can be a real game changer for you and bring your content to the top of the search results.  [Surfer](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) has made a huge following in a very short period of time and with a reason, the tool works! Anybody can work with this tool because it is very easy to use and has a clear interface. The prices are also affordable when you take into consideration what results you can achieve with the right combination of [Surfer’s tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/).  In the end, if you are in doubt about it you can always try the $1 trial for seven days and draw your own conclusion.  If you found this article helpful, check out these other reviews on my blog:  - [Review of Ezoic: How to use for beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/ezoic-review/) - [How to generate leads with OptinMonster](https://alejandrorioja.com/optinmonster-review/) - [Features, pricing and pros & cons of using BuzzSumo](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzsumo-review/)  If you are curious about some other SEO tools and want me to review them, please let me know in the comments below!  ## Surfer SEO in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how Surfer SEO fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Has Surfer SEO meaningfully improved for AI search in 2026? Yes — added AI Overview presence flags, TL;DR/FAQ structural recommendations, and refined the term-coverage scoring against top-ranking pages. Useful but not a substitute for specialized AI-search tools. ### Is Surfer SEO worth it for solo bloggers in 2026? If you’re producing meaningful long-form content regularly, the on-page lift usually pays back. For occasional posts, manual research is more economical. ### Does Surfer SEO replace the need for a separate AI-search tool? No — it covers content optimization. AI-engine citation tracking is a separate capability requiring a tool like Profound or Athena. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## How To Conduct A Technical SEO Audit In 2026: A Step By Step Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Technical SEO audits — crawlability, site speed, schema, indexation, mobile usability — are still essential in 2026. The audit checklist now includes AI-engine accessibility: which AI crawlers can access your site, whether your llms. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Technical SEO audits — crawlability, site speed, schema, indexation, mobile usability — are still essential in 2026. The audit checklist now includes AI-engine accessibility: which AI crawlers can access your site, whether your llms.txt is in place, whether structural data is exposing the content cleanly. The post below covers classic technical SEO; the GEO section adds the AI-search audit layer. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line There are three layers of common issues that might affect a website before performing the SEO audit. The first one is the crawlability and site structure that determines how accessible each website’s page. The second one is the On-page SEO that focuses on mistakes of each page in a specific website.  The last one is the technical SEO which is concerned with how fast your website loads on every device such as PCs, Laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Conducting a technical SEO audit entails investigating every corner of your website to maintain its loading time while also increasing search visibility. While I was on a roll with constantly updating my [blogs](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-start-a-blog/) to my website, I found it confusing as to why the number of visitors on my website isn’t increasing. Various websites from [Wish](http://wish.com) to [The Outline](http://theoutline.com) gain a steady number of visitors every day and they were updating as often as mine was. I checked the numbers of my own website and I found out that my search ranking hasn’t gone up either. I researched the reasons as to why this is happening to me, and I stumbled upon this video: After learning more about this and applying what I have learned about [SEO](https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks/) auditing, this helped my website become more visible on search engines and make my visitor count increase by the minute! > Take note of this: If you own your website and you notice that your search rank and visitor count is not moving or decreasing, you should have a technical SEO audit done every month. Before learning how to perform an SEO audit, let us look at the most common issues that will be brought up and how much they will affect your website. They consist of three layers: 1. Crawlability and site structure 2. On-page SEO 3. Technical SEO Feel like this isn’t for you? Let me do it - [ Sale Product on sale ![30 Min Consultation](/images/posts/inline/10aa3a67-30-min-seo-consultation.png) 30 Min Consultation ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. Rated **4.73** out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/21653?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent&add-to-cart=23495) - [ ![Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy](/images/posts/inline/d9b2d700-seo-audit-1.png) Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) $9,500 Rated **4.89** out of 5 based on 9 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/21653?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent&add-to-cart=26553) ## Crawlability and site structure This has something to do with how accessible each page is within your website. If Googlebot isn’t able to crawl and index your entire site, it will severely damage your search results ranking, viewers, and revenue in the long run. The following are the main errors you should avoid: - **Links and redirects** According to [SEMrush](https://alejandrorioja.com/semrush-review/), they found out that every fourth website has link errors and 30 percent of websites have broken internal links. Also, keep in mind that your website may be one of the 26.5 that have 4XX errors as well. - **Sitemap and Robots.txt ** Even if there is a small percentage of websites that have formatting errors in their sitemap.xml and robot.txt, having either in your website will damage your chances of getting more views and rank higher in search results. ## On-page SEO While the previous layer discusses one’s website as a whole, this section focuses on mistakes you might be making in each page in your own website. Improving errors found in this layer will not only improve your website’s search rankings but increase the off-page performance of each and every one of them. Here’s a list of key errors you should watch out for in this layer: - **Content** Search Engine Journal mentioned in their 2017 article that there are three technical SEO issues that most website owners make. The first is severe duplicate issues, advising owners to add a rel=”canonical” tag and create unique content over well-optimized duplicate content. Following that is webpages having low text-to-HTML ratio, which is present in 93.72 percent of websites. Finally, 73.47 percent of pages have at most 250 words per page, which makes them feel inappropriate and unnatural. - **Meta Descriptions** If you are one of the 63 percent of owners who do not put in the effort in creating a meta description for each and every one of their pages, this can result in lower click-through rate. An even bigger error is having duplicate meta descriptions for your webpages. 54 percent of owners make this mistake and it will also heavily affect the overall click-through rate as well. - **Title tags, H1 tags & images** A factor in website ranking can be attributed to titles, headings, and images. You should make sure to add missing alt tags for all your images, shorten wordy title tags, and add enough H1 tags to each of your pages. This will negatively affect your website’s overall UX, thus decrease your rankings at the same time. Relevant: [Learn all about On-page SEO here](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## Technical SEO In this section, take a look at how fast your website loads not only on devices such as PCs and laptops but also on smartphones and tablets. As a study by Amazon revealed that a 1 percent drop in sales can be linked to 100 milliseconds of extra load time, avoiding any errors in this layer will positively benefit your website’s growth. Here’s a list of key errors to watch out for in this layer: - **Page speed** One of the highest issues that your website can have is any of your websites having a slow page load speed. Ignoring this problem will cause your overall Google rating to drop. Another problem that should be resolved immediately is having large HTML page sizes. Even though less than 1 percent of websites contain a large HTML page size, having at least one site made this way will not only make your website slower by comparison but also make it less user-friendly in the process. The following elements in a webpage can affect this criterion: 1. Website host 2. Large images 3. Embedded videos 4. Plug-ins 5. Ads 6. Theme 7. Widgets 8. Repetitive script or dense code. 9. Old technology   This aspect refers to how the website was made. For example, if a website was made using PHP 4 instead of the current PHP 7, this is referred to as old technology. Several elements are needed for this generation’s websites including [Google Analytics](https://www.google.com/analytics/), the [Google Tag Manager](https://www.google.com/analytics/tag-manager/), a schema markup, and robots.txt. Elements such as Flash and iframes would have to be removed immediately in order to increase loading time as well. Aside from the schema markup and robots.txt, you should make sure that it is not blocked by the latter. After that, keep it running on the server by checking on it from time to time. - **Mobile-friendliness** As the increase of people-to-smartphone is exponentially rising, your website must be made where it can be accessed on smaller devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. This is also due to Google’s mobile-first indexing service was announced back in December 2018. Aside from that trend, it has been shown that smartphone traffic has already exceeded desktop searches for a long time now. This means that not being able to make one’s website adapt to these trends will suffer a major loss of clickthrough ratio, search rankings, and potential traffic all at once. After learning which SEO errors to fix right away, let’s now dive in on how you can perform your own technical SEO audit. [You would also like to read my guide on the top 20 SEO tools of 2021 here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ## Step 1: Identify Crawl Errors ![](/images/posts/inline/7c4755ee-crawl-errors.png) The first step is to have your site audited and get a crawl report. Getting one will help you learn which one of the errors above you should mitigate right away. It is highly recommended that you do this monthly in order to keep one’s site clean of SEO errors and keep it as optimized as possible. Before making any changes based on the report, make sure to create a backup of the site first. After the backup, begin fixing any crawl errors by redirecting most 404 errors and turn them into 301 redirects instead. Then, pass the updated website to a development team in order to determine the cause, whether or not they have to add a new .html access file or increase the server’s memory limit. Also, remove any permanent redirects from the sitemap, internal links, and external links. ## Step 2: Check HTTPS status codes Making sure that all your websites are in HTTPS and not in HTTP is a must. Aside from that, one should also check for other errors using [Google Search Console](https://www.google.com/webmasters/). The following are some of the response codes that your website may have: 1. 301 – the usual redirect 2. 302 – an error code that usually happens in e-commerce sites when a product is out-of-stock 3. 400 – users are unable to access the page 4. 403 – users are unauthorized to access the page 5. 404 – the page is not found, which might be a result of you deleting a page without adding a 301 redirect 6. 500 – internal server error, which has to be fixed with a web development team Doing so will help remove any 4xx and 5xx response codes, thus improving site crawlability and user experience. Finally, check all your SSL certificates. Doing this will not only avoid crawlability errors but also keep all data between you and your visitors secured at the same time. Regarding SSL certificates, you should prioritize getting one for your domain and subdomains as soon as possible. Users that visit a website without it will be alerted through a “Not Secure” warning on their browsers, thus decreasing your visitor count in the process. ## Step 3: Check XML sitemap status As mentioned in the previous section, having a sitemap will help you have a higher search ranking. Doing this will also help search engine crawlers find your webpages as well. ### What to take note of while editing an XML sitemap - It is written using XML free of any formatting errors, including the proper 200 status codes and canonicals. - The entire file is written using the XML sitemap protocol. - Includes all updated pages on the website. - Submit it to your Google Search Console or add it in your robots.txt file. ## Step 4: Check site load time ![](/images/posts/inline/9d21fa98-547b4df3dac35a9669689d89704cdaa9-dareboost-presentation-2.jpg) Being able to access any page in your website by past, present, and future visitors is a must in order for them to keep traffic high. To do this step, you can use Google’s PageSpeed Insights or another site loading tool to check. Ideally, it should be less than 3 seconds. Resolving this can be done by organizing which elements of the site should be optimized for faster loading times and a better user experience. Aside from that, check whether the server is down or is operating slower than usual. This can occur if multiple users are attempting to access the server at once and a possible response to this is to upgrade it as soon as possible. Then, check if any of your subdomains are redirected to the home website. Doing this will help prevent any complete page invisibility in any of your websites in the process. ### Cloaking If your website is placed in a search result where it does not contain the information the user needed, it is then otherwise known as cloaking. An example of this phenomenon is when crawlers learn about HTML text from your website while serving visuals to visitors. Another is if you designed a website to have the text color to be similar to the background. If this is present in your website, it is highly suggested that you should have it removed immediately by rearranging how each webpage is made. Doing this will prevent any negative damages to your overall ranking in the process. ## Step 5: Ensure your site is mobile-friendly ![](/images/posts/inline/6b6d75b0-9.27-mobile-friendly-1024x575.jpg) For this step, one can use the Google Mobile-Friendly Test. You simply enter your site in the tool and it will generate a report regarding how your website works on mobile and what needs to be improved. ### Solutions on how to make a website mobile-friendly - Increase font size - Embed Youtube videos - Compress images - Use [Accelerated Mobile Pages](https://wordpress.org/plugins/amp/) (AMP) - Add structured data - Update URLs to mobile URLs. - Check and update the hreflang code and links as often as possible - Add touch elements - Include localization ## Step 6: Audit for keyword cannibalization ![](/images/posts/inline/07d81740-this-is-keyword-cannibalization.png) This audit checks for any article that shares the same keywords. Having these will make Google confused as to which page to prioritize first when it can be looked up in the search results. Having these duplicate sites will negatively affect your click-through ratio, authority, and conversion rates. Use Google’s Search Console’s Performance report to check which pages are competing for the same keywords then filter which pages use the same in their URL and how many pages are ranking for those same keywords. Duplicate sites also include subdomains as well. An example of a subdomain is having blog.yourwebsite.com while having yourwebsite.com as your main.  Another way to optimize your use of keywords on all of your pages are the following: 1. Use H1 tags for top-level headings 2. Apply H2 tags for main categories 3. Include H3 to H6 for subcategories and important links 4. Avoid repeating the same keywords across multiple headings 5. Write the entire page content in an H tag 6. Not use H tags in headings 7. Reverse the order of H tags 8. Use H1 for all headings on a single page except when highlighting equally important topics on one page 9. Covering similar topics or targeting the same keywords both on your main domain and subdomains ## Step 7: Check your site’s robots.txt file ![](/images/posts/inline/98109261-test-robots.txt-file.png) For this step, take a look at your robots.txt file and look for any “Disallow” lines in it. Having these means that one or more of your links are blocked from search engines and cannot be displayed in future search results. By disallowing which websites to crawl and allowing ones that should be, this will help not only increase your website’s visibility but also your search rankings as well. Aside from that, make sure that update all disallowed links to be in lowercase. Then, if you own several subdomain websites, take the time to make a robots.txt for each and every one. Following that, remove any parameter URLs, non-indexable pages, and add the rel=”alternate” tag for the sitemap. Finally, always use robots.txt properly while maintaining the website. There are two times as to when to check it: during development and after launching. During development, always make it a habit to block your robots.txt. Doing this will prevent any of your pages to index incomplete, non-optimized content and treat the previous versions of your website pages as a duplicate. After launch, always check its contents as often as possible. Doing this will prevent any of your pages from getting ranked improperly and fixing this is as simple as setting crawl directives for search engines. ## Step 8: Perform a Google site search ![](/images/posts/inline/018f212a-google-site-search.png) One way to make sure that your site has not been penalized by Google or is being blocked from being indexed is by simply searching it on Google. Simply type “site:” in the Google search bar then add in your website after the colon and check which pages are indexed by the engine. Doing this will help you go back to the previous steps and perform any error-checking there as an improvement. If, for example, another brand is appearing in the results, solve it immediately as this may be the reason for a bigger issue present within your website. Solving this problem requires one to dive into its analytics. Then, if the homepage is not appearing as the first result, manually check it to see what is missing. Make sure to learn whether or not it has a penalty or is within a poorly made site architecture. Finally, cross-check the number of organic landing pages against the search results given by Google. Doing this will help one get an idea of what these engines see as valuable. [Also, read how to get your website to the top of Google here](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) ## Step 9: Check for duplicate metadata In the sixth step, we have discussed that you can remove keyword cannibalization by correcting sites that have the same keyword in their URL or are ranked in the same keywords. In this step, I will introduce you to another solution to avoid this problem. It is named using two words: meta description. According to research, 54% have duplicate meta descriptions while 63% are missing from different sites. To spot them, first get a detailed SEO audit or a crawl report. Then, one can proceed to modify your website with high rankings and value, keeping in mind to make all meta descriptions unique between pages. ## Step 10: Meta description length ![](/images/posts/inline/88111f85-meta-description.png) Following the previous step, another problem that can be encountered regarding meta description is on how too long it is. Recently, its length was changed from 160 to 320 characters. Making use of most or all of the available characters to add key elements such as product specifications and location can help increase one’s click-through ratio. ## Step 11: Check for site-wide duplicate content Aside from the duplicate meta descriptions mentioned in step 9, you should also take care of other duplicate content within your websites as well. Other contents that can be duplicated within your entire website include the following: - Duplicate body content from tag pages - [Two domains](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/) - Subdomains - Similar content on a different domain - Improperly implemented pagination pages A way to spot these errors is to use a tool such as Copyscape, Screaming Frog, Site Bulb, or [SEMrush](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/semrush/). After learning the areas of interest, fixing them will include one or all of these steps: 1. Adding canonical tags to all pages to let Google know what their preferred URL per page is. 2. Adding no-follow links to prevent passing a page’s SEO to another website. 3. Disallow incorrect URLs in the robots.txt. 4. Rewrite all content, including body copy and metadata. 5. Manually review and fix any pagination errors. ## Step 12: Check for broken links The last item to check for in your technical SEO report is for bad links. Any type of this error will introduce your website to a host of other problems, such as wasting crawl budget, bad user experience, and lower search rankings. The first step after learning about where specifically these errors are is to remove all occurrences of pages that redirect the user to old 404 pages and update them with their respective internal link. The next step is to remove middle redirects between pages. Doing this will help make your website crawl budget lower. Having this means that all website pages render properly while making one’s host load efficient. In short, this will help keep the user experience positive in the long run. You can use a plugin like Broken Link Checker for this. ## Bottom line To summarize, performing a technical SEO audit means exploring every nook and cranny of your website in order to keep it loading fast while improving one’s search ranking at the same time. From content to XML sitemaps, make sure to have a tool ready to check for any errors and resolve them immediately. Still feel confused or overwhelmed? No problem, I can tackle the audit and give you an actionable plan with prioritized fixes. If you are interested, please check this product: - [ ![Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy](/images/posts/inline/d9b2d700-seo-audit-1.png) Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/) $9,500 Rated **4.89** out of 5 based on 9 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/21653?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent&add-to-cart=26553) Are you ready to apply these tips to your own website to help it grow? If you are, you can learn more by checking out these articles too: - [Top tips on improving your Alexa rank fast](https://flux.la/improve-your-alexa-rank/) - [How to Get 250,000+ Website Visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-increase-website-traffic/) - [Your guide to writing SEO Articles](https://flux.la/how-to-write-seo-articles/) ## How technical SEO audits works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines have their own crawlers — GPTBot (OpenAI), PerplexityBot, ClaudeBot (Anthropic), Google-Extended (Google’s AI training crawler), CCBot (Common Crawl). Each respects (or ignores) robots.txt directives differently, and each has its own caveats around JS rendering and rate limiting. A 2026 technical audit should include a crawler-by-crawler check. Practical 2026 audit additions: check that your robots.txt allows the AI crawlers you want indexed (or blocks ones you don’t); verify llms.txt exists at the root and is current; validate that JSON-LD schema renders correctly on the main page templates; test that AI engines can actually access JS-rendered content (sample query a few pages, see what gets cited). ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for technical SEO audits 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — technical SEO audits in the AI search era ### Should I block GPTBot in 2026? Site-by-site decision. Blocking removes you from ChatGPT’s training pool but doesn’t prevent ChatGPT browse mode from citing you in real-time queries. Most publishers in 2026 allow GPTBot; some niche/IP-sensitive ones block it. ### Is llms.txt now part of a standard technical SEO audit? Yes — the audit should check that llms.txt exists at the root, lists current pillar content, and matches the actual site structure. A stale llms.txt is worse than none. ### What’s the most common technical SEO mistake hurting AI search in 2026? Critical content rendered only via JavaScript. Some AI crawlers handle JS reliably, others don’t. Server-side rendering of TL;DR + FAQ + schema covers all crawlers. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Top 3 Backlink Building Strategies in 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-3-backlink-building-strategies/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Backlinks still rank you on Google in 2026 — and the three strategies below still work. For AI engines, the equivalent currency is citations: ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews don’t ‘rank’ sources, they cite them. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Backlinks still rank you on Google in 2026 — and the three strategies below still work. For AI engines, the equivalent currency is citations: ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google AI Overviews don’t ‘rank’ sources, they cite them. This refresh covers how to engineer those citations, and how the classic backlink work feeds into them. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Even if your written content is falling flat, you could find success via link exchanges and engagement with influential people in your field. Remember that you can also pay for links if things become tough. Experts in search engine optimization (SEO) have sometimes confessed to using this method. Your backlinking efforts will be launched into orbit if you use the new tactics. Building links may seem like a simple chore to the ordinary individual. However, this has to be considered seriously by SEO experts, as I said in my previous post on [link prospecting](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-prospecting/). High-quality link chances are difficult to come by, but your campaign will reap the benefits in spades when you do. As for me, I find link prospecting to be a tedious and time-consuming procedure.  However, if you really want to maintain your online success, this is likely your best option. ## Backlink Building Strategies Did you know that SEO experts think link-building is a good implementation approach? You’ll find [link-building](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-link-building-for-lead-generation-in-2022/) tough if you’re unaware of which backlinking tactics work. The good news is that you may simultaneously utilize many tactics to increase backlinks and brand recognition. Continue reading to find out how to implement the most efficient backlinking solutions. Even while backlinks are crucial to your SEO strategy, it’s not something you can do and forget.  Over time, backlinks may lose value, become bad, or obsolete. To maintain a high search engine position, it is necessary to seek new possibilities to build backlinks constantly. To help you narrow down your options, I have included my top suggestions below. ### 1\. SEO Backlinks: Mimicking your Competition Identifying the sites that connect to your rivals is a major victory. If your competitors have backlinks, you can rest assured that they are on niche-relevant sites, making them valuable for SEO. It’s possible to spend a lot of time doing this by hand, but free and commercial programs may help examine the backlink profile of your rivals. Launch the tool, type in the rival’s URL, and choose check backlinks. Backlink data, such as totals, percentages, and more, will be generated when the tool completes its audit of the domain. Imitating your rivals’ backlinks has several advantages, the most notable of which are listed below. 1. Mimicking your rivals’ backlink profiles can also help you get connections from authoritative websites. Not only does the linking domain’s Domain Authority (DA) matter, but also its relevance. 2. Getting the finest of the greatest backlinks isn’t always easy when guest blogging is your major backlink strategy. However, if you steal your rivals’ backlinks, you’ll have greater leeway to adjust to changing market conditions. 3. Imitating your rivals’ backlink profiles may boost your search engine rankings. You may increase your platform’s exposure and even steal some of your rival’s customers. ### 2\. Image-based link-building ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gBnoyt1y-I9P9vfl89bCuLjXET4BVT4NA0ZfO6oy_zzPm32k4TPXlLexTOnv7ggARkV_wHoOvUrq0lWHyVKWiZS7bSz33XvI-LFu8025kXVmJiaIpGEoOjb6HXoqBJ9dQHTmeQUfN_WVSJiKtk1dVcX3PiQbh9NZlXkcDcLGIU3ANVWYB5zRmMGuOA) [Image source](https://images.ctfassets.net/lzny33ho1g45/3r2xDtswEPgfSXTUaPyfGh/6633dd942475ad6c667246a5227e32ba/image3.png?w=1400) It makes sense that individuals would be most likely to click on a picture since it demands more of the reader’s attention and visual space. Creating and promoting visual content (graphics, infographics, product photographs, cartoons, etc.) may significantly increase inbound links. If you’re going to link to an image, make sure the picture’s host page gets the credit instead of the image directory. All traffic to image directories (those with file extensions like.gif,.png,.jpg, etc.) is wasted.  To determine whether any of your backlinks point to picture directories, put up filtering in your optimization tool to see whether the target URLs include picture formats. If you notice any, consult the site owner to change the link with something which links to the webpage with the picture. Additionally, if you’re allowing them to include your picture on their website, they should be alright connecting to the proper area. ### 3\. Create broken links ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/1F4h1r0ww-FKP_p-YigBW9LUqSXrCP4R2Ofz_FQQou_87fojpZrNxO8sahEYb0dLH0xLMl8Zs_o7jRXakMoc3gYpoZ59VNTMX34AW0VAcB0Hx6p1h_h43A00b9dfLk_h-bGj9uL2Ub81GGa19HVPVHeT03PISYFfQ2rKj1Rnt5HTYKVWgL0JaLPzFw) [Image source](https://searchengineland.com/wp-content/seloads/2017/02/ahrefs-broken-links.png) Do not waste time compiling every page; instead, check [Ahrefs’ database](https://ahrefs.com/blog/broken-link-building/) for any dead links to your site. The process entails little more than entering your domain and selecting a link. This backlink technique is a subtle method that undercuts your rivals, filling their obsolete shoes. The aim is to identify formerly useful linkages within your field that are now broken and then fill the void with new material. Your best bet for discovering broken content links on your competitors’ web pages is to focus on their sites directly.  A broken link checker is useful for this purpose. Once you locate a broken link, run this URL via a backlink-checking program. Use a backlink checker to see which sites have pointed to the broken file, or look for some [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) online. You would then approach the sites linked to the main article and offer your material in its place. ## Backlink Strategies: Why It Matters This is known as a [backlink](https://www.centori.io/post/what-are-backlinks-and-why-do-they-matter#:~:text=High%20quality%20backlinks%20are%20from,higher%20ranking%20in%20search%20results) when an external website connects to yours. When a website provides a link to another website, it usually provides further information on a topic or provides support for that website. Google will boost your site rankings if it sees this as evidence that it is an authoritative resource. Because of this, domain authority and Google page rank are influenced by the number and quality of inbound connections to your site. A proportion of all clicks travel to the first Google search result. Therefore, it is in your best interest to rank as close to the top of the search results as possible to get the freest, organic clicks. Google will see you as more credible as an authority if you have more inbound links. With credible inbound connections, you may benefit from the established authority of these other sites.  In addition to helping you rise in the ranks, this action also helps you. Remember this while you create your connection strategy.  Before submitting a link, check its quality using a website SEO tool. Higher search engine rankings result in more organic visitors. To rank well and attract more visitors, you need a solid backlinking strategy as an element of your SEO campaign. ### Which kinds of backlinks are the most beneficial? There is no guarantee that you will get all of the search engine optimization benefits a backlink will have to offer simply because another website is referring to your own. Concentrating on acquiring high-quality inbound links is crucial, and you’ll see an increase in your ranking position. #### 1\. They Originate from a Reputable Online Source This has also been brought to Google’s attention. There is a notion referred to as domain authority, and Google considers it an important component when determining the amount of weight a link gives. Links coming from websites with a high level of authority have more value in their voting than links from websites with a lower level of quality. These connections are very difficult to get, but if you manage to acquire one, it will place you on the map. #### 2\. Your Anchor Text is Optimized to Incorporate your Desired Keyword Anchor text refers to the portion of a link shown to the user and may seem a little too technical for others, so here’s a breakdown. When Google crawls a page, it scans the HTML code, and one of the things it looks for is links that are enclosed in a tag. There is the URL to which the link is pointing, as well as the text that is being connected. You’ll notice that each time there’s a link in an article, the relevant text will be highlighted in blue. The blue text you see there is the anchor text.  The anchor text that other websites use when connecting to you is just as important as the website that links to you in the first place. Use the keyword throughout the page’s content to improve your page’s search engine rankings for your primary term. #### 3\. The Content That Links to you is Associated with the Content that you Produce If the page that links to your website has material that is in no way connected to what you do, then the benefits it brings to your website are limited.  As a consequence of this, the value of that relationship to us would be relatively modest. It is possible that rankings will not change at all as a result of this. #### 4\. That’s Because it’s a “Dofollow” Link If the link to your website is a no follow link, it is not beneficial to your search engine optimization (SEO). This is perhaps the most crucial quality of all the characteristics. Without passing any SEO value, sometimes known as “link juice,” this signals search engines to disregard the linked website. Fortunately, all URLs on the internet are do-follow by default. The following are some prominent exceptions: - Comments sections - Internet and social media resources - URLs of forum posts - Links in which the author has expressly designated them as “no follow” ## The Value of Monitoring your Backlinks ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BYUbfSxhotCUCpLmZrMvUkU61CVDxJv3pcBa3yF6RYLzqAuR8LkfxAPFChkXFP0msFxMLhQqSMh3BOYzFuoEJ9uNOHK9aXoIm1NvLwoIXTIQgyTAD8w75xRf4IfI8mcvrQjI0jgoXtz6RO4LN7ZCkfYrqNeW6Kt9xsoxB-ANUvXGUlXKts0-eamWmQ) [Image source](https://brand24.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/ahrefs-backlink-monitoring.png) The vast majority of individuals invest their time and resources into acquiring new connections. Still, they do not [monitor the status](https://neilpatel.com/blog/13-efficient-link-building-strategies-for-busy-marketers/#:~:text=Keep%20Track%20of%20Your%20Backlinks&text=Why%3F,important%20to%20monitor%20your%20backlinks) of those links. How would you know whether one should continue building backlinks or take a break if you do not monitor them? You could have more than 800 links to your website right now. However, if you check it again in three to six weeks, you might find that some of those connections have disappeared. You should maintain a record of your backlinks for the following reasons: 1. Your ability to influence which blogs and authoritative sites link to you is limited. 2. It is quite simple for the site operators to delete your link from any post or reference page on their domain. Also, they are not required to provide you with any advance notice. ## Bottom line Backlinks are useful for search engine optimization (SEO) since they serve as a “confidence vote” from one website to another. Simply put, search engines will consider the number and quality of inbound links to your site as evidence that other people find and value your material. Search engines will give more weight to a page or site in a SERP if it receives a high number of inbound links from other credible sources.  Therefore, getting these backlinks may improve a site’s search engine rankings and traffic. Do you want to read more about backlinks, SEO-related articles, and instructions on how to create one? Check out any of these posts! - [11 Simple On-The Best SEO Guide For 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [The Best SEO Guide For 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [How To Do Local SEO: Top Tips, Strategies, And Tools 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/) ## How backlink building works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) Classic backlinks still pass authority that AI engines respect — a page with strong backlinks is more likely to be cited by an LLM than the same page without them. So the three strategies below are not obsolete, they’re prerequisite. What’s new is a parallel KPI: how often is your page cited inside an AI answer, and from which prompts? Concretely, in 2026 I’m tracking two things side-by-side for every pillar post: backlink count (Ahrefs) and AI-citation rate (manual sampling across ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Copilot). Pages that win on both compound fastest. Pages that have strong backlinks but no AI citations usually need a structural fix — TL;DR, FAQ, schema — not more outreach. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for backlink building 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — backlink building in the AI search era ### Are AI citations as valuable as backlinks in 2026? Different and complementary. Backlinks pass authority and drive direct referral traffic. AI citations drive in-answer brand visibility and high-intent click-throughs. The most valuable sites have both. Optimizing only for one and ignoring the other leaves traffic on the table. ### How do I check if Perplexity / ChatGPT is citing my site? Manual sampling is still the most reliable method in 2026. Pick 30-50 head queries from your niche, run them through each engine weekly, log which sources are cited. Tools like Profound and Athena are starting to automate this; the manual baseline is still worth running. ### Do nofollow links matter for AI engines? Indirectly — AI engines crawl them like any other link to discover content, but they don’t pass the same trust signal that dofollow links do for classic ranking. For pure GEO purposes, the value of any link is in the discovery/citation signal, not the link-equity calculation Google uses. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Top Features To Look For In Keyword Research Tools Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-features-to-look-for-in-keyword-research-tools/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The features that matter in a keyword research tool — search volume, difficulty, SERP features, intent, trend — still matter in 2026. What’s new is the AI-search dimension: which tools track AI Overview presence, Perplexity source share, and ChatGPT citation frequency. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The features that matter in a keyword research tool — search volume, difficulty, SERP features, intent, trend — still matter in 2026. What’s new is the AI-search dimension: which tools track AI Overview presence, Perplexity source share, and ChatGPT citation frequency. The post below covers classic features; the GEO section covers what to look for in 2026. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Product naming is a critical phase in new product development that can be overwhelming. But keeping an eye on the best keyword research practices will ease the hassle of product naming. In surviving the ever-competitive digital market, ensuring your product name remains SEO optimized and popular will be your best action. You must develop a product name that’s easy to read, relevant, and memorable to build a better customer base. Mastering keyword research tools is necessary to land the best product name and stay on top of the competition. These feature-rich software applications let you look at keyword research through a data-driven and smart lens, helping you land the proper name to make your venture succeed. Suppose you want to enter a market with a new product name, but you’re overwhelmed with what and where to start in your highly competitive industry. It’s true– naming a new product is not a walk in the park; it’s one of the most critical phases of product development, to say the least. And your decision to go with a particular product name can either make or break your venture. Thankfully, like countless businesses, you can also rely on cutting-edge software and digital tools to effectively identify [better markets](https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/15751-conduct-market-analysis.html) and forge a strong brand. And this approach should also be your best path in naming your product, as well. If you’re following my blogs, you’ll understand how vast an opportunity the digital space offers businesses and entrepreneurs like me. [Market research tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-market-research-tools-to-uncover-actionable-insights/), for instance, allow for a more intelligent and data-driven approach to business decisions and strategies. Similarly, keyword research can be powerful in directing businesses to a more insightful and guided approach to new product development. I have always talked about how important it is for businesses to make the best out of every digital solution to survive and thrive in this highly competitive era. This time, I’ll get across the best keyword research practices to help you name your new product. So tune in! ## What is Keyword Research?  Let’s say you’re a product manager working on a new product launch. You know that your product name is important, but you’re not sure where to start– this is where keyword research becomes your best companion. Keyword research is the process of identifying and analyzing the words and phrases that people use to search for products and services online through various search engines and platforms. Such a process allows you to understand what keywords your target audience is using, wherein your new product name can be anchored into to make it relevant, memorable, and relatively easy to find. Once you’ve identified some potential keywords, you need to evaluate them based on several factors, including: 1. Relevance: How closely does the keyword relate to your product or service? 2. Memorability: Is the keyword easy to remember and pronounce? 3. Search volume: How many users are searching the keyword per month? 4. Competition level: How difficult will it be to rank for the keyword in search results? Keyword research is integral in crafting the most timely and popular product name. By understanding what keywords your target audience is using, you can choose an organic and appealing name. What I like most about product naming today is that keyword research is easier and more insightful, thanks to a plethora of software solutions and apps. With a few clicks and convenient analysis, research tools will give you access to the smartest and most visual organization of relevant data.  Keyword research tools help businesses to identify the right keywords to target in their marketing campaigns. This helps businesses to improve their website traffic and search engine ranking. ## Properly Using Keyword Research for Product Naming A product name is one thing, but an optimized product name gets you a step closer to success. [Keyword research](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/04/19/how-to-improve-your-keyword-research-for-seo/) eliminates the hassle of product naming by letting you see what products people are searching for and how they search for them. Here are the important things to consider in keyword research: ### 1\. Start by Identifying Your Target Audience Familiarizing yourself with your [target audience](https://business.gov.au/marketing/identify-your-target-market#:~:text=market%20your%20business.-,Why%20have%20a%20target%20market%3F,your%20customers%20and%20generate%20business.) will help you focus your business effort and decisions to reach relevant clients and possible market partners as your business expands. This allows you to develop targeted marketing to reach your peak potential and customer circle. Aiming too broad will only lead to inefficient and ineffective marketing while aiming narrowly will lead to lost opportunities. In identifying your market, you need to study your prospective clients and what other businesses may be directly or indirectly interested in what you are offering. To effectively identify your market, you can ask yourself the following questions: - Who are you trying to reach with your product? - What are their interests? - What keywords are they likely to use when searching for products like yours? ### 2\. Use a Keyword Research Tool to Identify Popular Keywords Keyword research has never been easier due to the advent of keyword research tools, and they can help you [grow your business exponentially](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/). These feature-packed, convenient software applications help marketers and businesses identify the most relevant and profitable keywords to target in their online marketing campaigns. Typically, keyword research tools will unveil the keyword search volume, all your top competitors, and other factors that can help marketers decide which keywords to use. Banking on these software solutions lets you look at the data holistically, more organized, and conveniently. Keyword research tools are critical for any business wanting to propel its online visibility and reach the next level. Using these tools, marketers can identify the keywords their target audience is most likely to use when searching for information online, like product names. This information can then be referenced for custom content creation, optimizing websites, and developing advertising campaigns to maximize your brand and market reach further. When choosing a keyword research tool, it is important to consider the specific needs of your business and your budget. Some factors to consider include: 1. The number of keywords you need to research 2. The level of detail you need about each keyword 3. The features that are most important to you ### 3\. Use Keywords Relevant to Your Product and Target Audience When you have already identified your target market and listed your top keyword choices, you must make the same effort to pick relevance over search volume.  Keywords with high search volume also equate to high competition. As a new product name, yours should focus on relevance to attract the right people to patronize your product. While it is important to achieve [SEO optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-for-optimizing-your-amazon-storefront/), it is also crucial that you build around relevant keywords to effectively make a proper name for your brand. Choosing high searchability over relevance can lead to people thinking incorrectly about your product since it disposes of the substance and relevance of your new product name. ### 4\. Naturally Include Keywords in Your Product Name  When incorporating the relevant keyword of your choice into your newly developed product name, make sure not to overdo it. You wouldn’t want your product name to be too long or keyword-stuffed; include it naturally. There’s no need to cram as many keywords as possible into your product name. Trust me, doing so can make your name look spammy and off-putting. Aim to use 2-3 keywords at most. You should use 2-3 keywords at most. The most important thing is that your product name sounds natural and easy to remember without using too many hyphens, underscores, or other punctuation marks. When choosing keywords, focus on those that are relevant to your product and that people are likely to search for. For example, if you sell organic dog food, you might use keywords like “organic,” “dog,” and “food.” ### 5\. Monitor Your Competition Keeping an eye on the market competition helps you avoid confusion due to a too-similar name to your competitor’s. You don’t want to be your competitor’s extended marketer, unknowingly, just because you created a name that’s too near, if not identical, to your competitor’s already established product. Here are what you need to do to keep an eye on your competition’s product names: 1. Visit their websites and look at their product listings.  2. Use a keyword research tool to see what keywords are used in your industry.  3. Talk to your customers and get their feedback on potential product names.  Once you have a few potential product names, take a fraction of your time in comparing them to your competitors’ names and polish out similarities that can put your name in trouble. You can also use a trademark search tool to see if any names are trademarked– of course, you don’t want any legal entanglement. ## Top Keyword Research Tools Keyword research tools make for convenient and smart research-assisted product naming. These tools are your best companion, so check out these top choices below. ### 1\. Semrush ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/CtinfE-jQ0LFtgxJJjcJ19VyjHcrggDI7WUv-VGoigV6a63CBIKOUuOzgqChgUz-6zE3maUE04XdYgvG1v3cWE1lQOpyY1xzkxEurLfpZ4gMgESnoc8STEsonn0a2W0knv33hRhuP_sBqbDo-LVYnQ0) [Image Source](https://thetechhacker.com/2017/01/14/semrush-review/) Semrush remains one of the big dogs in the SEO industry. The large user base of this tool is after the app’s database of over [23 bi](https://www.semrush.com/stats/#:~:text=Keyword%20Analytics,keyword%20database%20on%20the%20market!)[llion keywords](https://www.semrush.com/stats/#:~:text=Keyword%20Analytics,keyword%20database%20on%20the%20market!), one of the largest in the industry. This allows you to find the right keywords for your target audience, regardless of your niche. On top of this feat, Semrush also offers a variety of keyword research tools, including Keyword Magic Tool, Keyword Overview, and Keyword Gap, that allow you to find new keywords, research the competition, and track your progress. ### 2\. [Google Trends](https://trends.google.com/trends/) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/25KHMbR7HY4iPqvKNhBAkUOyPsO0ddLMWKBHVv44V2lPHK8iVu2GVc5o08pAhQQoEzxRwD7EymaFP7TAQ2xklRpsRAcnUONoqZYIGApC-gim4l5cu7zYOShj_wsm_2uJb62xUB8fTZbA4J11VFJs2DA) [Image Source](https://ecommerce-platforms.com/glossary/google-trends) Google Trends is a good keyword research tool as it helps you discover new keywords, track the popularity of keywords over time, and identify related keywords. This coveted free tool gives you a glimpse of the most popular keywords in any niche through real-time date tracking. Many marketers bank on Google Trends to monitor keyword popularity and create content that is up for the long haul. ### 3\. Soovle ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/DwT_85-wSqaS-lUiLuaUUmHoWaZNKhpwteP7GwCtb8cD5OBJ_0aACL04Rf7GGHDwro2Y6FPCzCXn1LDzJu9YELToM8paZLE7WT1DYYLLx_Sjnd5sLr-cm0RRISyeUJVguoaPKX6brJ8OEWmcnKVXmxs) Soovle is another beast of a free research tool out there. The best thing about this tool is that it’ll give you great keyword ideas as it searches prominent websites like Youtube, Google, Yahoo, Amazon, and Bing, among others. It’s an all-in-one-place keyword suggestions haven, letting you pick untapped keywords unknown to your competitors. ### 4\. KeywordTool.io ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MOcu2akr6paPYfTlVOFoPOvp1uEa_iPNPLtzgVcd_ijjo7MnTHxVQdvAi20OZ-A0EE-JvUcxWtg55iIqacRuHcpXDn5vba260i3sZBLkFO28QLRW3VddQfrH3JLE7s1puGRnRdfxqQ2BIZYBYrIxo0M) [Image Source](https://blog.wurkhouse.com/the-top-5-free-keyword-research-tools) Just like Soovle, KeywordTool.io can generate a great number of keyword suggestions for every niche. You’ll have the luxury of getting keyword suggestions from the most prominent search engines, including Google, Yahoo, and Youtube, or scour through hashtag suggestions from social media giants on Twitter, Facebook, and Twitter. On top of that, this tool can also analyze competitor websites for you to see what keywords they are using. Keyword Tool is also a free app you shouldn’t miss out on! ### 5\. SECockpit ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wSsdAe6-6dYRCsdmyiQfIcJz49lKo22k8fRkyN51LlIqM55rZT7dBO1DYKYwy4tNaNTPEcvu_uvfgZQg77p1vQgjC04Ta4Q3-MNfHcwWwI3A_rwF27YMxskPkyUwh2jQa3-UQO10TViOiCRWBmoVfRQ) [Image Source](https://startupvoyager.com/secockpit/) Taking place at our top spot is SECockpit which SEO pros love. SECockpit stands out for its built-in features that deep dive into search trends, organic competition, and traffic estimates, making it a valuable tool for SEO professionals. While SECockpit has many features to offer, it also has a steep learning curve, especially for SEO newbies. Nonetheless, this feature-rich tool will get your product to greater heights. ## Leveraging Business Success Through Popular Product Name With the best practices in keyword research and the best research tools the digital space can offer, the power to succeed in your new product development rests in your palm. Take advantage and control what this digital era has to offer, and see your business propel and crush the competition. If you love reading this piece, I’m sure you’ll also love reading these articles below: - [Top Tips For Optimizing Your Amazon Storefront](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-for-optimizing-your-amazon-storefront/) - [Master Marketing With Data Analytics: How to Get Sustainable Results](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/) - [8 Commonly Misinterpreted Metrics in Google Analytics (And How to Set Them Straight)](https://alejandrorioja.com/8-commonly-misinterpreted-metrics-in-google-analytics/) Comment down what content you’d like to know next! ## How keyword research tools and AI search works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI-search tracking is the new dimension that separates 2026’s keyword research tools from 2024’s. The leading tools now show: which of your target keywords trigger an AI Overview, which sources Google AI Overview cites for each, which Perplexity sources rank for each query, and (more roughly) which ChatGPT-search citations exist. None of these were features in 2024; in 2026 they’re table stakes. Practical evaluation criteria when picking a 2026 tool: does it track AI Overview citation frequency for your domain? Does it surface the citation list for each AI-Overview-triggered query? Can you set alerts for when you gain or lose AI citations? These are the features I’d weight most heavily today. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for keyword research tools and AI search 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). ## FAQ — keyword research tools and AI search in the AI search era ### Do I need a specialized AI-search tool, or can my existing keyword tool cover it? By 2026 the major tools (Ahrefs, SEMrush, SE Ranking) have added AI-Overview tracking. Specialized tools (Profound, Athena) go deeper but are additive, not replacements. Start with what you have. ### How accurate is AI-Overview tracking in keyword research tools? Improving but still imperfect. AI Overviews vary by user, location, and time — tools sample at scale but don’t capture every variant. Treat the data as directional, not absolute. ### What’s the best free keyword research approach for AI search in 2026? Manual sampling — query your head terms in Google AI Overviews, Perplexity, and ChatGPT weekly, log citations. Combine with Google Search Console for the classic side. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Ubersuggest Review: A Must-Have Free Keyword Research Tool Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/ubersuggest-review/ Published: 2026-05-03 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Ubersuggest is a budget-friendly keyword research tool that’s been a starter option for years. In 2026 it’s added basic AI Overview tracking but lags the dedicated AI-search tools. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Ubersuggest is a budget-friendly keyword research tool that’s been a starter option for years. In 2026 it’s added basic AI Overview tracking but lags the dedicated AI-search tools. The review below covers the platform. This update adds an FAQ on the 2026 fit, without modifying pricing or feature sections. *Tool features and pricing change frequently; this refresh adds an FAQ on how the tool fits a 2026 GEO workflow without modifying the protected feature and pricing sections below.* Ubersuggest review While implementing a growth [strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-increase-website-traffic/) for my website, I make sure that all my articles attract a lot of visitors. With that in mind, I had to think of a way for me to learn which topics I should write about that would keep my visitor count high. As of today, I have armed myself with lots of SEO tools in order to keep me in the loop for the best topics while crunching the numbers of how visible my website is. Like in a previous article, I talked about [WhatsMySERP](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/), a free rank tracker. In this article, I want to talk about Ubersuggest, a free SEO tool that can help you generate new keyword ideas. If you want a summary of what I will discuss in this article, you can watch the video below: # Ubersuggest’s features Ubersuggest started under Neil Patel. He proceeded to create a tool that would help fellow website owners have a catalog of possible keywords whose data came from Google Suggest. I will talk about some of the key features of Ubersuggest here. ## Keyword Overview This feature is what made this tool well-known and is its central feature. It generates a report based on the word or phrase you entered into its search bar. The first part looks like this, using “freelancing” as an example keyword below: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/D3F8Da5uNy6b_2AM9zDAYh3niZkQRtHtSCwKj1zTqUWeqRtBh92bBJWbiuj7h1ZnJWbqdPlOxg3bcpiaB10_sXWfz-nQzBml9PmQ92LV5MCznKkPMOFIphTtWi39ABXIRm-c0ua5) Search volume is the number of times this exact keyword will be searched in a month. The higher the number here means there is a big audience that reads articles that has this specified keyword in it. ### SEO difficulty SEO difficulty is an estimate of how competitive it is to rank for this keyword. The lower the number, the easier for an article written around this keyword to appear in the first page of organic search results. ### Paid difficulty Unlike SEO difficulty, paid difficulty is an estimate based on how easy it is to rank in paid search results. The higher the number, the harder it is to appear on the first page of search results as a paid search result. ### Cost per click (CPC) [Cost per click](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) (CPC) is the average cost you would have to pay Google if you want to add an article of this keyword as an advertisement. The higher amount here means that the keyword is more valuable. The next section of the report looks like this and it is a chart of how many searches of this keyword has been made over the past months: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wblAnwrnV4UuqVDuzff_OKTIa2U81FhghfSKVZROd8Cr5T9tREkAhDMQhRll_qJqQ35GLGg2PlBRC26aDJI89Kpb_wU6WSwHIbcTYovsTW28dfHMyVny6GygFaf9jCf3xLDEMf4o) After that, the graph breaks down how much of the traffic did click on SEO results. It also lists the age demographic of those who looked this keyword up. You can hover on each bar to know the exact number who did. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qrnvV2fLQeIIyhzQkCQvXEBh4zWTj9edUs2Nuk6IoCuOOJ1uK4_PSCQQjsmTDP8owPqD_O1daz8e1STv7te6md5dFqfwWYCZezcC-lsXIQKvlaR6IiOVqqBlZDeTkqq2V0WT0NSx) After that section, you can also see a list of articles, their titles, their number of daily visitors, the number of backlinks, and the number of shares on Facebook and Pinterest. This list can help you get an idea of what to write next. ![](/images/posts/inline/39d49de1-pasted-image-0-1-1.png) ## Keyword Ideas This feature shows possible keywords based on the word or phrase you entered into Ubersuggest. This data is revealed through a table. On default, it is set on “suggestions” or keywords that are related to this keyword.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/zTlHB-xX7yRKgoFBYH1kOkeWx0VnbDeiQ7C-7AWpbm2B_7Iri6cLg-FX4e0jQotIT5MCSxP_7SXKEq72iWK-wfu_WCEMYqwI7_yz1jYI6qTfhw2-TvMTfevO-hRlJrVrQRkXj-Oi) The next tab, “Related,” lists keywords that are related to the word or phrase you searched in Ubersuggest.   ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/p_GonqcI0vTuOfZ_ztojBu4xUsinGoEEk58L0r7xTFXU5QZpYpbYU6uNu52cBZr7wj-9fqr0WhWezEDgukil1jm0vKGnow_mAkqlMgcke0zLoyJWjSS7wTV-2xV9zlp3_KhJaPHe) For the “Questions” tab, it has something to do with the most searched questions that are associated with the word or phrase you entered into Ubersuggest. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pNntZlH4zyrd-6YAuHc5HDtnBPXBVqGajTg_Ufj_ty_i8yiOYAiFB08sOpbmjyvVF__ZKwaXadwT96lbx7wVR7jKbV02Td-WuLhI9lqhVUnQBz6BkZnzu_tMkT0X6cDR8Ys1qLO) For “Prepositions,” these are keywords that have two related concepts in one search term.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/idkpuz4EtrztYmSqiPQ7bFUF4fEhYCGyynHJfTr7k9jKdBFzPC56F5aYLXGTGitLywC-b7GvtdsZEF-mfU_t7bFbxSOWLK0qAso-1jTbcdlgtrTptxybX9_ONQeHHQzHwc_F8z0U) Lastly, “Comparisons” are all search terms with the keyword that includes phrases such as “vs,” “or,” or “and.” ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/sWe_DDENyJLedQ5GYeyl-Q8hSLlXs716T-lRvzRzAROjptmlGxEF2c6JFm0bnuF0b-eUKKVFSslwQ1CJGkO1Fi84rqYdly3LLH8JBmTXNV8aK24oJVF6kfSG3kpiMjK_BwkBDxvl) For each entry in any of the tables above, they show CPC, volume, paid difficulty (PD), and SEO difficulty (SD). The trend column refers to how much traffic each entry was looked up in a search engine. ## SERP Analysis Clicking on the arrow beside any entry under the Keyword Ideas section will list down the top websites that have the keyword in it in order based on the number of visits, the number of backlinks, domain score, and social media shares. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YI0ZlJ3j5dAfTUjTKNKPkZ29FpouwYaR67kicgMZnZJ5DciSAVWc2Vbg6nf_RhbrQTlRIFGblGFYEsx8l46TTStc-aX4MZPp_oZ7jNfcl8hnJq1NNZ-p_F3_qH5AtUW9v_2Hd88a) The Google SERP column refers to the top 100 sites ranked from top to bottom.  Next to it is the estimated visits column. It refers to how much traffic it receives on a monthly basis. This is followed by the links column, which is the number of links present inside the article. The domain score (DS) column is a score from 1 to 100 that is based on how authoritative it is and how high its rank is on Google. Finally, the last column is the total number of times the article has been shared on social media platforms. Relevant: [You would also like to read here my review of WhatsMySERP which is a free rank tracker](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/) ## Traffic Analyzer For this section, you can enter any domain and you can learn information about the domain. After entering any website in the provided search bar, it will show these four numbers at the start. The first entry labeled as *Organic Keywords* refers to the number of keywords this domain has ranked for in organic searches. This is followed by Ubersuggest’s estimate of the number of visitors the domain gets, known as *Organic Monthly Traffic*, based on the number of keywords it has ranked in. After the domain score, the last entry in the picture above is the number of other domains that have linked to this article with the label *Backlinks*. The insert below it labeled as *NoFollow* is the number of those domains that do not work anymore. This chart shows how much traffic the website has garnered over the past months. The chart after this now refers to the number of keywords used within the domain that has ranked between 1 to 100. The table that follows after this is a list of the pages that have garnered the most visits, backlinks, and social media shares throughout the domain. You can also view the number of visits per country as well. The last section of this feature now ranks which keywords attracted the most visitors, its rank in the organic search results, and the estimated number of future visitors, which also includes how many of those visitors came from which country. When you click any of the orange arrows beside any of the entries of the table, you would be given a detailed report of the entry as a keyword similar to the one shown in *Keyword Overview*. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VO6DwXA3c5_p_w80yRQbanQX9WA2X4wcBtLJrbuBFflKImKi-Fgkd9odbDSmydBOdOUGyiDmk6GzwXuKVtFQmzdVG8uOE0PipErEWsxde7MjJRmoWrWBt77r1B209ciw8kl23Kw7) Ubersuggest shows a detailed list of how popular the keyword is and which other domains have ranked for this search phrase. ## SEO Analyzer This is the final part of Ubersuggest’s features. It focuses on how well a domain or website has been performing based on Google’s data. There are two parts to this: Site Audit and Backlinks. ### Site Audit This module lets you enter your own website or a competitor’s into its search bar and it will generate a detailed report.  The first four details at the top of the page are as follows: 1. [On-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) score – overall SEO score between 0 to 100 of all the websites inside the domain based on the ratio of issues found by this module’s audit tools 2. Organic monthly traffic – total estimated traffic this domain gets over organic search results 3. Organic keywords – number of keywords found that this domain ranks in organic search results 4. Backlinks – number of other domains that link back to any of this domain’s websites The next part of the report focuses on the following things: 1. Health check :This part of the report gives an overview of how many pages were found by Ubersuggest’s own robot crawler. It then lists which page is healthy, broken, has issues, redirects, or blocked. 2. Critical errors: This part of the report gives the total number of errors that need the help of a webmaster to correct. You can learn a detailed report of these errors by clicking “View All” to be redirected to a list of problems needed fixing. 3. Warnings: This part of the report points out the number of minor issues with the specified domain. They may have little to no impact on the domain’s SEO health and are one of the easiest to correct. 4. Recommendations: These errors have the smallest priority amongst all the errors in this report and may be easy to correct. The next part, entitled *Site Speed*, refers to how fast would a visitor be able to navigate to the domain or website. It also indicates the score for each criterion: 1. First contentful paint – time when the first image or image is shown on the page 2. Speed index – time when the entire page is filled with content 3. Time to interactive – time when the user can navigate seamlessly on the page 4. First meaningful paint – time when the primary content of a page is visible 5. First CPU idle – time when the page is ready to handle input from the visitor 6. Estimated input latency – the time of how fast the page will respond to visitor input during the busiest window of page load Finally, the last part of Ubersuggest’s Site Audit explains the list of the top SEO issues found within the specified domain.  ### Backlinks The final part of Ubersuggest lists the number of other domains that link back to one of the sites listed under this domain.  At the beginning of this report, it also lists the number of unique domains that have linked backed to this website in one of their pages.  The next chart lists the growth of websites that site this domain and the type of domain they are located. The chart after that lists the number of dofollow and nofollow links that have been made per day that have something to do with any page within this domain. The last item on this report refers to the exact list of articles that have referenced the domain in some way. Any item that has the NF symbol means that it will not influence the domain’s ranking in search results. # How to use Ubersuggest One can use Ubersuggest for free by going directly to the application here. Once it loads, you will be presented with this page: ![](/images/posts/inline/0702e620-ubersuggest.png) You can use the application as is by entering a domain or a keyword in the indicated search bar and navigating to each of the pages. However, you can only access the full data after logging in using a valid Google account. Without opting for a monthly or yearly fee for the application, using a Google account would only let someone work on one project and save a few keyword data. # Ubersuggest vs. Others ## Ahrefs [Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com/) and Ubersuggest share the same features when it comes to keyword searching, domain ranking, and topic suggestions. Their main difference lies in the fact that these features can only be accessible after paying for a monthly or yearly fee with Ahrefs. ## SEMRush Another tool that is similar to Ahrefs, [SEMRush](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/semrush/) can help you with your keyword research and domain ranking. However, it features a module that keeps track of their advertising efforts, including one for social media. If you want to know more about the features and benefits of using SEMRush, [read my review here](https://alejandrorioja.com/semrush-review/) ## keywordtool.io This tool pulls out possible autocomplete suggestions from various sources such as Google, Youtube, Amazon, Bing, and eBay. Unlike Ubersuggest, they only focus solely on keyword research. ## WhatsMySERP Similar to keywordtool.io, [WhatsMySERP](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/) can be used to regularly check on keyword ranking based on lots of factors, including the type of device used to search on. Unlike Ubersuggest, all its features are accessible for free. # Payment Method If you are interested in using Ubersuggest as your SEO tool, you can opt to pay for its use for a month or for an entire year for a fixed fee in your local currency. They accept payments through major credit cards and debit cards. During the time you have paid for its use, you are allowed to cancel one’s account or downgrade to a free one at any time. They also offer a 30-day, no-questions-asked money back guarantee as well. # License Use *I’m Kind of a Big Deal*, the company managing Ubersuggest, allows its user to download information from Ubersuggest’s website but it must not be used for a deceptive message in any form. Aside from that, its license does not allow the user to upload or download files that contain any copyrighted material to and from the application as well. # Customer Support You can contact support regarding the application by sending a message through [neil@neilpatel.com](mailto:neil@neilpatel.com). For cancellation of the subscription, you can also opt to send them a message using the following: I’m Kind of a Big Deal, LLC ATTN: Termination 3750 Las Vegas Blvd. S. #3108 Las Vegas, NV 89158 # Ubersuggest at a Glance In short, Ubersuggest is a tool that can help you look for possible keywords and topics to rank in. Aside from that, it can also check your site and point out which errors should be fixed.  This is one of the many tools that can help your website grow both in content depth but also in the number of visitors as well. You can do this either by signing with one Google account for your website or pay a subscription to manage all your projects at once. Did you like my review of Ubersuggest? Take a look at these articles to help you arm your website on the path of search engine discovery: - [BlueHost Review: one of the top  Web Hosting Solution](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/)s - [ClickFunnels Review: Is it worth the hype?](https://alejandrorioja.com/clickfunnels-review/) - [5 top Content Marketing Trends to Boost Your website Traffic in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) Share your thoughts about Ubersuggest in the comments below! ## Ubersuggest in a 2026 AI-search workflow — FAQ *Note: this update adds context on how Ubersuggest fits into AI-search work. The platform features, pricing, and competitor comparisons in the body above are intentionally left unmodified — those change too frequently for an automated refresh to handle reliably. Verify those details on the vendor site before relying on them.* ### Is Ubersuggest enough for AI search optimization in 2026? For starter-level keyword research, yes. For serious AI-search visibility tracking, no — pair with Profound, Athena, or manual sampling. ### Has Neil Patel’s Ubersuggest improved meaningfully since 2023? Incremental improvements — better data accuracy, AI Overview flags. Still behind the SEMrush/Ahrefs tier on depth and accuracy. ### What’s the best free alternative to Ubersuggest in 2026? Google Search Console + Google Keyword Planner (free with a Google Ads account) cover most starter needs. Ubersuggest’s free tier is more usable but increasingly limited. **Related reading:** [the best SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). ## Updated for May 2026 SEO in 2026 is unrecognizable from the 2020-era playbook. Three shifts that matter for anything written before mid-2024: 1. **AI Overviews are the new SERP zero position.** Google's AI Overviews default to roughly **60% of US informational queries**, eating most "what is" / "how to" CTR. Optimizing for *citation inside the AI Overview* is now as important as ranking #1. 2. **GEO (Generative Engine Optimization)** is the working term for cross-engine optimization — getting cited inside ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini answers. **~12% of high-intent commercial queries** in late 2025 sample studies showed a direct-citation flow from these engines (vs. zero pre-2023). 3. **E-E-A-T (now E^3-A-T, Experience + Expertise + Establishment + Authoritativeness + Trustworthiness)** continues to be the framing Google uses internally — "Establishment" was the 2024 addition emphasizing brand-level signals. Tool landscape (May 2026): Ahrefs and Semrush both shipped Generative Engine tracking. Surfer SEO + the Topical Authority crowd added GEO scoring. Screaming Frog still the standard crawler. AlsoAsked, Keyword Insights, and Frase shifted heavily into AI-Overview snippet engineering. If this post predates May 2024, treat its core advice as the *Google-search baseline* and layer the GEO playbook on top. --- ## Understanding Programmatic SEO: A Beginner’s Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Marketing, Amazon SEO, Off-page SEO, On-page SEO, SEO Guide, SEO tools TL;DR: Programmatic SEO — generating thousands of pages from a template — was a Google-rankings play through 2024. In 2026 it cuts both ways for AI engines: well-structured programmatic pages are easy for ChatGPT and Perplexity to extract, but thin programmatic pages are exactly the kind of content LLMs flag as low-quality. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Programmatic SEO — generating thousands of pages from a template — was a Google-rankings play through 2024. In 2026 it cuts both ways for AI engines: well-structured programmatic pages are easy for ChatGPT and Perplexity to extract, but thin programmatic pages are exactly the kind of content LLMs flag as low-quality. The GEO section covers where the line is. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line The use of a code to create pages at scale is known as programmatic SEO. Programmatic SEO is a relatively recent trend in SEO that entails creating larger-scale landing pages. This approach enables you to build tailored pages to increase mobile, speech, and local searches on your search engine. SEO can be technical and challenging to execute, but practical implementation would pay off in the long run. Since the beginning of my career, I have been religiously following one rule! > If you want to thrive in business, then you have to go where your customers are. And in today’s technology-driven world, consumers are online more often than ever.  The “Queen of the Internet” Mary Meeker and her [2019 Internet Trends Report](https://www.vox.com/recode/2019/6/11/18651010/mary-meeker-internet-trends-report-slides-2019) outline some fascinating statistics, most notably about the growth in the number of internet users and digital consumer behaviors.  Meeker highlighted [digital marketing trends](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2019/08/21/three-digital-marketing-trends-that-can-bring-you-closer-to-your-customers/#77d94f474966) that will shape and affect the digital marketing landscape in the future, and one of those is the prevalence of programmatic marketing concerning advertising and SEO.  Have you ever wondered how aggregator sites like Zillow, TripAdvisor, and Yelp have hundreds of pages of targeted content? Have you ever asked yourself how they do them?  The answer is SEO! If you follow me regularly, [you’d know I recently reviewed some of the best SEO tools,](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) I recommend you give this a read to familiarize yourself with these very important tools. But today, I will outline the basics of programmatic SEO, how to create SEO-driven landing pages, and how to scale them.  ## What is Programmatic SEO?  Programmatic SEO is the creation of pages at scale using a code. For instance, creating 100s of pages for “best hotels in {city}” which is a technique used by companies like Airbnb, and Expedia. This is a relatively new concept in SEO that involves developing landing pages on a larger scale. This method allows you to create targeted pages that aim to get more mobile, voice, and local searches on your search engine. To match the sheer number of Google search entries, websites employing this technique deploy large masses of web pages containing modifiable content.  Its a method commonly used by aggregator sites, to create and optimize landing pages using metadata on a comprehensive and large scale. It is less about authoritative, informative, or quality content, but is more about the creation of user-friendly and high volume landing pages with transactional intent.  This technique can also be viewed as a process where ranking factors and its changes are detected, software or scripts are updated, and changes based on the modification of ranking factors are applied and reflected on particular pages of the site.  Sounds simple enough? It may seem easy, but as we proceed with this article, you will realize that it may not be as easy as it sounds.  Relevant: [Simple and effective tops for On-Page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## Elements of Programmatic SEO  Generally, programmatic SEO has three elements:  ### 1\. Research and Development (R&D) R&D aims to answer questions such as:  1. How many searches happen per month? 2. How do people search for things related to your business offering? 3. What pages are relevant to the search query? R&D revolves around questions that quantify the intent of the searcher, the competition between the search results, and how users are searching for keywords to be used to find the page.  ### 2\. Technical Technical elements include answers to queries like:  1. Can the search engine crawl all pages on the site?  2. How do we get the search engine to crawl the pages we want?  3. Does the engine view content on the pages? ### 3\. Content Questions about content include:  1. Does the search engine think our content is relevant?  2. Does the search engine think our website is trustworthy? ## Keyword Research SEO is all about capturing search traffic relevant to your page or business, and search intent vary based on the keywords you use.  Keyword research is already a reasonably known SEO procedure, but applying it at scale can be quite different as it involves a modified method. You will find and list out head terms, check their search volume using a keyword research tool, identify primary and secondary identifiers, including modifiers, and put them all together using Python, a programming language.  ### **Find your Head Terms**  Head terms can be thought of the categories you will rank for, at a broad level. For example, Zillow will probably use words related to real estate, and TripAdvisor terms related to vacations and trips.  Head terms already contain search volumes in themselves but are often searched with modifiers. To get some sense of the search volume, you can use a keyword research tool, such as [Google Trends](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/).  For example, let me use terms related to vacations.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/OPRbkM6i3dZkocbgp3wEXehZpGfsf_Ogm-b_6nv3lLLnHXmpdv4pDATRX3G5Tdx_ht8hYCwaROKz_llg1xIaoqLA9sbuEwnJN-N040iZRwhs6Jq3pvYbdE6vrFjKb-0dwgjzEAUp) I start with these head terms to know the overall volume related to each one.  After that, I can flesh out the list as much as possible by adding more terms to a list. For this, you can use tools such as:  1. Keywords Everywhere 2. Ubersuggest 3. [Whatsmyserp](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review)  4. Google AdWords 5. Moz 6. SEMRush  7. The “People Also Search For” option in the search engine   Also, using tools, you can take a look at the pages of your competitors in the scene to learn the keywords they are ranking in their title tags. Add anything that stands out to your list.  For example, if your head term is about house cleaning, then here are some permutations.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZvuaLIz_Z09y9mL_P9QRbJQKpUBLAxX_EyKQvJ4tWDZL48lrVZcd49SdrLhiISpTiU5dP0RW85vhkcjoF6evEcr-8s0wYac5ES853xxIw7hriCzci0xKyicFjYXa__09v_78Pu-A) ### Identify Modifiers Google searches like to help users by giving them automatic search suggestions. Using an SEO tool such as Ubersuggest, find all of those suggestions along with your head keyword and create a list with modifiers.  At least, have a guess on what your primary and secondary keywords are. Here are some examples  ***Primary Modifiers:***  1. Restaurants: *Japanese* restaurants, *fine dining* restaurants, *Chinese* restaurants 2. Shirts: *dress* shirts, *floral* shirts, *long-sleeved* shirts  3. Hotels: Hotels *in New York, Lancaster PA* hotels  ***Secondary Modifiers:***  1. Restaurants: *cheap* restaurants, *romantic* restaurants  2. Shirts: *comfortable* shirts, *affordable* shirts 3. Hotels: *cheap* hotels, hotels *with swimming pools*  Primary modifiers create a whole new category, while secondary modifiers either describe a head term or a head term including a primary modifier.  ### Put It All Together Now, we will go ahead and combine the keywords together for an extensive list. It is not unreasonable to have over 100k keywords if you are operating at a large scale, but you can get good insights for as little as 2k keywords.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ve3OtfNut9gx6wj8zoT7-9JVk3b9cqV8qUn9pfIksyDl2QUx_P_a9xKjSBJt8_L2LxCwt2kEYboik6kWhzIApq0qqnyqP9m4mYgXL-Wt3koxqc69fmh_BGNysdl4KiSUf2sQfqso) We want to get every possible version of keywords and modifiers, and for purposes of this section, we assume that we are focused on the vacation home rental niche. This Python script will let you do just that. You can use this script as your own, and if you are focusing on a different niche, then simply replace the head terms and city-state pairs (yellow texts inside “”) to generate a different set of keywords. Additionally, there are far more head terms and city-state pairs, and you would want to use more CSV files. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/aepkLzIMgvCeqd3LVikNIhbCRa0FEsjO2PatqrE3Cn_6-7hDkgiDG1jW_kxh6c-QE_bd8aP77xEmkMj74M_oUhGWNECeDbw8Mq8W2pFJdcRZs6aaVGhz-g7fS6JAKDVzH7jnuAgm) When you run this script, you will get a very exhaustive list of keyword options.  As you see, the python script results in every possible permutation of your keyword and city-state pair. View the results in Excel with the program’s text import functionality, and effectively, you have already created keyword tags.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/wCLGdx4SoKDPP69vuknf6_3SBT6s-P0vWtS_mAuzJOgedaErQ5AAsOIenAzzN0DiG8LU4qSlGitNLxhVYE-WdZkOMQa18XfOlZt5NI-F57tNqz-4-tEGzUP2Z9xsGc5knetUORTs) If not familiar with coding with Python, then there are plenty of spaces online to learn. Furthermore, Macs come preinstalled with Python coding software, and you can use the exact scripts shown above for your use, with modifications for your particular keywords.  The inclusion of secondary modifiers can be helpful but is not necessary. If you want to though, then be sure to include another array in your script, and another column in your excel output.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/CIpHJ8zD-_eKSXvdGVhnopYvAprQ0yxl1XxbDTVVrjVHfq8vQ87VmH0M4-dYSEnfMzU-UHJfR2N-popKkG8EykPjiFVtZL_fYF-5tBlVzSfVyKE1rlr0Tn9_0LQRZQck6hXup-Rk) Using Excel on a large scale keyword research project is quite tricky though, as more often than not, you will find that the terms quickly reach the maximum capacity of the sheet. You can use other tools and data analytics platforms, such as Google BigQuery plus SQL.  ### Get Search Volume The Google Adwords tool does not truly give accurate data, but in programmatic SEO, we don’t need accurate. We need directional data to be used as points for comparison.   Adwords has a pretty low keyword limit, so you will want to use a virtual assistant to divide these into blocks and chunks, or use Keyword Keg at a cost to allow you to manage large batches of data.  Running the excel data into Adwords or other data analytics tools produces keywords with search volume, such as below.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/k-eM3phtki5YB_8Pqn3dCJcibxRTOIZP02K4Zbp0_W5BKOd_3Wf18IauOciNtnKVSZD8xc1P8CAHFRrxKHdUveSsMSJe5ZR-cMWdujwEfz4idf7DlZvlA5D93G6P5BdbaorJNYl9) Retrieve the data from your columns and connect them using the VLOOKUP function in Excel. If too large for Excel, then upload to SQL tables, then join the related columns.  ## Competitive Analysis at Scale After gathering a whole string of keywords, the next step is to rank the data on a large scale to garner valuable competitive insight. Rankings can be considered as the most straightforward and useful data when sizing up your competitors.  Top players are defined as those sites having the most keywords in the top 10 of a chosen niche. Do a quick search in search engines to see how your competitors are doing.  Rank data for about 5,000 keywords is enough to get a picture of the competition in your industry. Pay attention to where the top sites get their links, the tools they use for the title tags, and common UX patterns.  Examination and analysis of your competition are made a lot easier by tools such as SEMRush, Moz, Ubersuggest, and Ahrefs.  [Relevant: Read my review of WhatsMySERP](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/) ## Creating Landing Pages at Scale Once you have identified your keywords and did a competitive analysis, it is time now time to generate landing pages. This is one of the critical challenges in programmatic SEO, as content for each page needs to be unique.  Coding the page is not the hard part; your engineering team can surely create the template and design you would want through their expertise. Here are some tips to consider when you create your page.   ### Single Page, Single Intent  There is virtually no need to create a landing page for every possible permutation of the keyword, as Google is pretty good when recognizing synonyms. You will want, though, to create one page per user search intent.  Remember Google defines intent – not you. This intent is based on algorithms created from user data, and as with any algorithm, it is not perfect.  To do this, spend some time or so to browse the Search Engine Results Page (SERPs), and pay specific attention to words highlighted in bold by Google, as well as the “people also searched for” section of the page.  Check your competitors. Do they have multiple pages per intent or various pages for quite similar intents?  At the end of the day, this will be based on your judgment. Will you follow the competitors who have multiple pages per keyword, or one page only for similar keywords?  You can always correct it later if you recognize that your judgment is wrong. ### Avoid Doorway Pages Google defines doorway pages as “pages created to rank highly for specific search queries.” Well, that is basically SEO.  But do not fret, for Google has also given some questions to assess whether the pages are a prohibited doorway page or not.  1. Is the purpose for search engine optimization, or to lead visitors into the actual relevant portion of your site, or is it a vital part of the user experience?  2. Is the content on the page specific yet the page is meant to rank for generic terms.  3. Do the pages duplicate items that already exist on the site to capture more traffic?  4. Do these pages not create value for users, and serve as merely a passageway for affiliate traffic?  5. Does the page exist as a mere “island?” Are they almost impossible to navigate from a different part of your site?   All SEO-developed pages are to an extent a doorway page, but Google is fine as long as it is vital to the site’s existence, and it delivers some sort of value.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/W2WqqRlryGzbMV7xslsXDYLxYyVrRD4kRgZV2Aar0L9DnUzEwgDYyGf3B6pDRd63t8llqk2f9B9y_ClukhUsce6UJY-YcULW2LlNLXNYcOkUQOxtnjAfJzap4vW1Ppi3Dh2gmP7_) As you create a page, ask yourself the following questions.  1. Is there a reason for this page to exist if not for Google? Can I arrange the page as such if it is not? 2. Is there some sort of value that the algorithm can derive from the page?   3. How will a machine know if the page is different from others?  4. What can I do to make a page ‘linkable’?  At a minimum, each landing page should have enough unique content that the algorithm perceives your page to deliver unique value to its users. And ideally, the content must be useful to the users.  You will use one, or a combination, of these elements to fill out the page.  1. Photos 2. Reviews 3. Business listings 4. General information about the business 5. Statistics 6. Relevant data 7. About 8. FAQs And the list goes on! The challenge is producing and generating content unique enough for different landing pages.  Here are strategies companies use to create enough content across hundreds of landing pages.  - **Two-Sided Marketplace**  Online marketplaces, with vendors on one side and customers on the other, are practically synonymous with SEO.   ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/bWbQx0l3Qvpst2CkZOKMS-wbCst4shl5WmmcZF6MDbfqCO5Y__qX1RU353R1F5KGglAN1zK46sF92aF2N9KUs8uuIxQewVu_t0nqHsn_vKR3z9AtZCLlWCrWrrT9QIJsB-_wvLL7) Vendors are incentivized to contribute content as it will help them in their business, and consumers can leave reviews. Additionally, the data scraped and collected by the marketplace, such as price quotes, locations, or preferences, could be used to fill the content gap.  Examples of these include eBay, Houzz, Care.com, Expedia, and Rover.  - **Community** ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/GChrP1pUAVYjU-FIx719PPpwCwKy2KKJJJvbLHWmarhixRINPlR3RXm7tL0vvQZH4uXs_Cdeqg9idBWsRXfo_kVBStB7KhxVBalbEMksp52mQac3uHBLZoxyzlxdqDQm5ZIF6tuh) Online communities naturally create limitless original content, as long as there are active users on the site.   Q&A sites, such as Quora and StackOVerflow, have Q&A pages that frequently rank on Google. Forums, such as Pinterest and Reddit, revolve on submissions and comments for content.  - **Proprietary Data**  If your site has access to data, or it inherently focuses on generating data, then it has the potential to create great landing page content. Furthermore, proprietary data is easily linkable to other parts of your website.  Such examples of these are Zillow and CoinMarketCap.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/KHRO63_WXsK1qKxXqpzC-0VDxXK502HqPnIpcVYS4gMjEbCwel1S0WqrWHTlUvmoQXJV2RPHOYpYqhV7lET04CZ82Zou6eMqYiW_Pj3sPo246jQisJ37PSqITXPGcq0FsCmyjE-m) - **Curation**  Curator sites, such as Yellowpages and Indeed, actually have a little of their own generated content. They run their own web crawlers to scrape the content they need, which are curated listings.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LHZBw-KBqvErYAAe4mAF6G6pGkD0EDkGLps6MMDpI7umPWkO2OyKpGq4LzMADz7offWzgnphAD5759tauHY5vPZ_Bu34HUgFksnyA_C6HK785NLoUgSa4e4j5T0b9fOH72F896Z5) - **e-Commerce**  If you want to sell products, then you must put information such as quantity, price, specifications, product descriptions, and shipping details. Reviews are another source of content in this kind of site.   Many e-commerce SEOs write custom descriptions and take custom photos of their products, more so when the product is not unique to them.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9MxbalBh-fToIxAADpG-fW8BBhghPHOVot6-P6KTcAm6suJK52Km8W7rPq7_JaDrLpnSqDWZycRLKhVzLLpd_4QUcqM2q4t5Cki1wnamFP1hhZHD9nfrEMd7ATBCdA3jMSr6VyCW) - **Editorial**  Hand-written content is a web staple, and if all else fails, then you can always generate original content through writing them. Editorial content has a fair bit of advantages. You don’t have to rely on other people creating them, and you can always use SEO tools to include keywords.  Handwritten content is also another way to add some bulk and flair to your page, even if you already have user-generated content.   ### Building Links at Scale  Link building has no exact process in programmatic SEO; it is much more nuanced. The companies have to figure it out on their own.  So here are some strategies to help build links that scale.  - **Ego-Bait that Scales**  Most two-sided marketplaces use some form of “ego-bait” to get their supply and then get a link back. Often, these come in embeddable badges.  Typically, you offer an embed code of a badge or some form of visual reward to a business on your platform. This may make the site feel special and be compelled to show off the identification on their website.  This creates a sort of “linking back” to the site that gives out the badge. See? It is quite an effective link building scheme at a relatively low cost.  The link building scales with your growth, so go ahead and give out those badges.  - **Viral Content**  Take Movoto as an example. They earned their place in the search engine by being the “Buzzfeed of Real Estate.” Even though they have a fraction of the budget of large competitors such as Zillow, they managed to find a way to get to the top of the rankings.  How?  They create goofy list-based posts that are designed to go viral. As a result, traffic comes into their site to read the posts.  Movoto spent quite a lot to get the posts the traction they need, and as they went viral, they naturally gained a lot of backlinks as well.  It is another way to create backlink scalability, though I have to admit that listicles and “Buzzfeedy” types of articles are not how they used to be.  - **Proprietary Data**  At the center of Thumbtacks, a website dedicated to home services is the annual Small Businesses Friendliness Survey.   They spent the first three years of the company sourcing a supply of local businesses on their platform. Then the suppliers are surveyed about the businesses.  With that data, they generate content. And not just one or two pages, they create original content for each and every state and metro area in the US.  These reports earn backlinks from news outlets and websites, commerce chambers, and government sites.  - **Commissioned Surveys**  Surveys are another great way to create data that others will be interested in. And even if it is relatively more expensive than proprietary data, you can tailor your questions to predict or otherwise elicit a particular response.  For instance, Bankrate has been publishing its commissioned surveys for an extended time, and they almost always get recognized by a media chain or outlet.   Bankrate employs the help of professional surveys and research firms typically to conduct surveys, but there are cheaper alternatives such as Google Surveys or SurveyMonkey. Many authority sites and media, though, will not cover your story unless from sources of repute, such as a professional institute.  - **High Link Intent Content**  People write digital content every day, and are always on the lookout for sources to use. You just need to be discovered as that source.  For example, if I am going to write a topic, I would probably use the first couple of results as my source of information. These top results will gather more and more links, solidifying their place in the SERP ranking.  For this to work, though, you need to produce content that has an intent to be linked. You would want informational intent with a pretty high search volume.  From there, do what you need to do to get your piece recognized, through pitching the article, or guest posting, or other ways. It may be a lot of work, but it will be worth it in the long run.  Eventually, though, SEO compounds through time. The older some websites get, the easier it is for them to generate links out of thin air.  You will come to a point where links and mentions are earned just by being a recognizable brand. Until then, though, keep on link building.  ## Common Technical Issues in Programmatic SEO  At this point, you will have already acquired quite a decent understanding of programmatic SEO and how to build SEO-optimized landing pages. This section is dedicated to the problems and inefficiencies a website applying programmatic SEO may encounter.  Relevant: [Also check what are White Hat SEO techniques here](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) ### Unable to Get Pages Crawled If Google cannot find a page, then it cannot rank it. To avoid this, make sure the pages are neatly categorized, such as below.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/eqI2QOvUr73L9J3lVLFzo79-v0NCRVR4KdYQAfRp6zoMYuK6POlifvpET9gsbt5IKFxy7vIPdHEnLwG5TxWmkkUilLB13jALpLAmsaIlRew9U4i2mb7Fdu4wZED81maYzX07UVwB) Categorization leads to two things: it establishes easy bread crumbs, and ensures that Google can find your page. However, you do not want Google to only find those pages, you want it to rank them.  ### Internal Linking Page rank is still central to Google’s algorithm, and page ranks are passed through internal linking. However, internal linking is one area where what is best for users versus what is best for SEO is quite different.  Here are some of the best SEO-related practices.  - **Breadcrumbs**  Breadcrumbs with your defined hierarchy will ensure that each subcategory will be linked to parent categories. A schema markup also allows Google to know the authority of your site to make the website rank much prettier on the SERP.  - **Related Categories**  You do not want to link only up and down the hierarchy, you also want to link to pages at the same level. This is typically reflected in the “People Also Searched” or “You Might Also Like” sections of the page.  There are typically different ways of implementing this. Categorization is one, as when sites give recommendations such as alphabetical order to decide the links to show to the user.  - **Anchor Text**  Tell Google what the page is about. Simple, easy, direct to the point.  - **Most Linked is the Money Link**  The most linked pages should be your money pages, the most valuable. Relevance matters in this type of linking, so be careful.  This is one reason why numerous companies link to the most valuable pages and directly to the big categories. - **Minimize Clicks**  Your category pages should not be more than two clicks from the homepage, and for individual listings, aim for only three or four clicks.  ### Making Sure Google Likes the Content Indications of if Google likes your content include the indexation rate and cache date.  Create an XML sitemap for each category in your site using software or tool. There are ones available online for free, so you can do it if you want to.   Submit the sitemap to Google Search Console, which will then tell you which elements in the sitemap are indexed. The indexation rate should be equal or above 90%, lower than that and you may have a problem with one or some of your pages.  When sites do their programmatic SEO well, the sites will be cached within the last week. You can also check the cache dates of your competitors to get a general benchmark; above that; then it may be a sign that the content is not very well perceived by google.  ### Page Speed You would want the landing page to deliver the most up-to-date information, primarily if it acts like a browser of sorts. Ideally, you want to have a crawling and catching script that automatically updates the content if something changes materially.   Your engineering team will know how to do this. Talk to them to see if they could set it up.  So that ends the discussion about basic programmatic SEO. It may be kind of technical and hard, but successful implementation will pay its dividends in the long run.  Enjoyed this post? Read these to know more about SEO topics, tips, and tricks.  1. [Do SEO like a pro with these tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) 2. [What is off-page SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) 3. [Amazon SEO Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/) ## How programmatic SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) What works for programmatic SEO in the AI search era is the same thing that works for any other SEO in the AI search era: depth per page. A programmatic page with a clean TL;DR, a unique data point, a numbered procedure, and an FAQ — even if it shares a template with thousands of others — is fully capable of being cited inside an AI Overview. The template is fine; the per-page substance is what gets judged. What does NOT work in 2026: programmatic pages that are just rephrased versions of each other, programmatic pages with no unique data, and programmatic pages that exist only to capture a long-tail keyword with no real answer. Both Google’s helpful-content updates and the LLM model providers are getting better at filtering these. If you’re going programmatic, design the template so each page has at least one unique fact a competitor doesn’t. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for programmatic SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — programmatic SEO in the AI search era ### Will AI engines penalize programmatic SEO? Not the technique itself. They penalize the symptom — thin or duplicative content — that bad programmatic SEO produces. A high-quality programmatic page with unique data per row is fine; a low-quality one that just templates the same paragraph 10,000 times will get filtered, with or without AI in the loop. ### How do I know if my programmatic pages are ‘thin’ by LLM standards? Run a sample through ChatGPT or Perplexity yourself. If the engine has nothing useful to extract from the page that it couldn’t extract from a similar page, it’ll skip you. The fix is to add a unique data point per page — a number, a quote, a chart — that nothing else on the web has. ### What’s the minimum content depth per programmatic page in 2026? There’s no fixed word count. The right test is: does this page contain at least one piece of information a reader can’t get from any other single page? If yes, depth is fine. If no, the page should either be merged with something more substantial or cut. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Effective User Optimization Principles To Increase Your SEO Ranking Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/user-optimization-principles/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: User optimization principles — making the page genuinely useful to the person reading it — were always the foundation of durable SEO. In 2026 they’re also the foundation of AI-search visibility, because LLMs evaluate content quality much the way an attentive reader would. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** User optimization principles — making the page genuinely useful to the person reading it — were always the foundation of durable SEO. In 2026 they’re also the foundation of AI-search visibility, because LLMs evaluate content quality much the way an attentive reader would. The principles below still apply; the GEO section explains how they translate to AI-engine citation rates. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line [Search engine optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) (SEO) enhances the amount and quality of web users via search engine results. Your business’s online presence will be prominent if you rank higher in the search results for keywords related to your industry. In the right hands, SEO may elevate your company’s reliability while also enhancing your customers’ overall impression of your brand and website. As a result of this, you’ll have more chances to close deals with potential leads and eventually help you reach your business goals. The topic of SEO appears to be on the minds of every small business owner in today’s digital world. Search engines like Google are where most users find the brands, commodities, and experiences they need. So, increasing lead generation and boosting search engine rankings are essential to a business if its content is optimized for users. Nonetheless, how can you boost your rankings in search engine optimization? A wide range of factors influences your search engine ranking. And it’s not an effortless initiative to rise in the rankings. Fortunately, I have listed 8 user optimization techniques that can help you enhance your search engine ranks and increase your conversion rate. So If you want to begin establishing your online presence, keep on reading!  ## 1\. Build a strong foundation for your site It would be best to lay a solid foundation for your website’s structure to increase Google search results for your business. If your website is poorly structured, your SEO efforts will go undetected by Google, regardless of how much excellent material you provide. If your website is difficult to use, Google may have difficulty “reading” or “crawling” it. Rankings can suffer as a result. To fix this, make sure your website is easy to use, which means that users should have an easier time getting to, loading, and navigating through it. Nevertheless, below are a few things you can do to get started: ### Examine your website from a technical SEO standpoint This gives you an idea of where your website ranks in terms of SEO. You can then use this information to change your website’s SEO to appear higher in Google’s search engine results (SERPs). ### Correct and rewrite any duplicate material on your website  Although duplicate content isn’t always a technical SEO issue, it can significantly impact your business. Duplication means several different versions of the same page’s content on your site. Setting up redirect rules for these URLs is the only way to fix this problem. ## 2\. Improve the speed of your website The greatest strategy to start an online business is not to waste money or time. A two-second loading time is what most people expect from web pages. I would rather not have to deal with a website that takes more than 4 seconds to load. The more time it requires for a website to load, the more dissatisfied the user will be with you. This could lead to them going to a competitor’s website instead of yours. Remember that the efficiency of your website is an important factor in attracting users. Sites that load in the range of 1 to 2 seconds are more likely to convert visitors to buyers than those that take longer than 4 to 5 seconds to load. So to [increase the traffic within your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/), you have to identify the factors that affect your load time: ### Image Size I’d rather have a minimalist web design that loads fast and is easy to navigate. Visually pleasing websites often take up a lot of time to load due to their size. So make sure your images don’t slow down your website by compressing and optimizing them. ### Browser Caching Web browser caching is a technique in which resources are stored in your computer for a short period. I do this so that the resources won’t have to be reloaded every time I open my site, resulting in faster page load times. ## 3\. Finding the right keywords Adding SEO keywords is a strategy to help search engines find your website’s content more easily. If you can figure out how consumers find your products, services, or information through this process, you’ll have a significant competitive advantage. Nonetheless, it is essential to conduct keyword research before deciding on the best search terms for your website. When [choosing the right keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/creating-search-engine-friendly-tags/) for your website, several things to bear in mind, including how to incorporate them. To do this, you’ll need to know three things: - the search terms people use to find items and services similar to yours - search volume for a certain term - how difficult it will be for each keyword to rank These three characteristics can help you decide the best phrase (or phrases) to include in your content to boost your website’s search engine rankings. ### Integrating Keywords into your site As soon as you’ve figured out the best keywords for your site, you need to make sure they appear in the right places. They should be included in: - Headers - Content - Image or ALT text - Meta Descriptions - URL’s Remember not to overdo it with keywords or risk spamming your audience. ## 4\. Produce Valuable and High-Quality Content To improve your business’s SEO, you need to have a [steady stream of high-quality content.](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/) I think that no matter how many structural improvements you make to your site, nothing beats valuable content.  Remember that consumers want to stay informed and are more likely to stay on a website after reading valuable content. So your content should be the focus of your efforts if you want to engage and convert your audience. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4um4ba0aqUJZZI54MlKKAr6rNXrz4JBhW5ze_xsUc9gXGUqJaJzG07EhqLFW9OiDA1mDbki5ke7DX01_MTxqRTP_yTOu4uNgK0sona4651DwiHspQ1ai3QNlrxBc9vM6D_Y8Kd9T) [Image source](https://www.google.com.ph/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fciteninja.com%2Fblog%2Fheres-step-step-process-help-create-quality-content%2) Thus, one of the best ways to increase your output in content generation is by creating a blog. This is where you’ll regularly upload entries about issues important to your industry and your clients. So think about your client’s difficulties and ensure that you address these issues in your writing. You can also include visual elements in your writing. People prefer reading articles with graphics rather than just text.  It grabs your audience’s attention and helps them grasp your point more clearly. ## 5\. Adhere to Originality Aside from creating valuable and quality content, it’s important to adhere to originality. Individuality is the cornerstone of SEO, which means that duplicating identical text is detrimental to your local search engine ranking. You can affect your website SEO by republishing material from other sources. In this instance, tools that can detect plagiarism are helpful.  They assist you with adhering to your original content plan and pointing out any unintended duplication that can be remedied at the time of publication. In addition to gaining your readers’ trust, producing original material can help you improve your search engine rankings. ## 6\. Improve Your Website’s Meta Data You need to make it simple for Google to understand your pages to rank higher on Google’s search engine results page. So, adding or improving the metadata on your pages is a sure-fire technique to boost your search engine rankings. Generally, metadata requires that you take the following factors into account: ### Title In addition to the heading on the SERP, this appears in the browser’s upper-right corner as the page’s title. The title should include your keywords at the beginning. ### Description Because the description appears in the search results and explains what the website is about, it must be accurate. Assemble a short yet accurate summary of your page that emphasizes your targeted keyword. ### Alt Tag Images, videos, and other visual material that appear on your pages will have alternative text descriptions known as alt tags. If your photographs are tagged with keywords, Google will know what they are about and when to show them in its image search results. ## 7\. Inbound and Outbound Hyperlinks Another technique to improve search engine rankings is to [link to other websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/). Backlinking strategies can become overly complex. Nonetheless, making your content linkable is a good first step in gaining more exposure for your site and attracting more connections. It is more probable that other websites will link back to your material if you produce and distribute high-quality information. In addition to getting connections from other sites back to yours, you should create internal links to other parts of your site. Not only will this improve your SEO, but it will also allow you to point readers in the direction of further resources that they might find useful. ## 8\. Optimize Google Voice Search Optimizing your pages for voice searches is a process of improving and simplifying the content for your users. Remember that, when it comes to answering people’s voice questions, Google largely relies on highlighted snippets and data structures.  As a result, voice search devices use rich snippets and data structures to provide results as quickly as possible. So if you want your target audience to find you twice as quickly as loading a web page, o[ptimizing google voice search](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/) is the answer. It improves the user’s experience and boosts search engine rankings. ## Increase Your SEO Rankings in a Matter of Seconds Always keep in mind that SEO is a continuous process. Therefore, It should be a constant priority to keep your website one step ahead of the game. So, continue learning and experimenting with new keywords to stay on top of the ever-changing landscape.  Nevertheless, the most important thing is to follow the principles in this post to achieve your business goals. Liked this post? Learn more  from other articles I’ve written about Search Engine Optimization that I think you’ll find helpful: - [How to Increase your Website Traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank 1 on Google](https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrwBpX5R.phhBMAtgDfSQx.;_ylu=Y29sbwMEcG9zAzMEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1642772602/RO=10/RU=https%3a%2f%2falejandrorioja.com%2fon-page-seo%2f/RK=2/RS=mgYdoJb06BuyDcRuFBMZXl5SHgg-) - [Enterprise SEO Guide: Strategies, Tools, & More](https://alejandrorioja.com/enterprise-seo-guide-strategies-tools-more/) Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comment section below. Please share to let others know about the importance of user optimization in increasing your SEO Ranking. ## How user optimization (UX-driven SEO) works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) An AI engine deciding whether to cite a source is, in effect, reading the page as a careful user would. Pages with clear structure, specific examples, accurate information, and answers to the obvious follow-up questions get cited at materially higher rates than pages with vague generalizations and filler. The user-optimization principles in this post are exactly what makes a page citation-worthy. Concrete moves that hit both user satisfaction and AI-engine citation rate: a TL;DR block that answers the head question upfront, an FAQ section that mirrors literal user questions, primary-source citations the reader (and the LLM) can verify, and avoiding hedge-everything prose in favor of clear takes with reasoning. These are user-optimization principles applied with AI-engine evaluation in mind. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for user optimization (UX-driven SEO) 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — user optimization (UX-driven SEO) in the AI search era ### Is user optimization the same as ‘helpful content’ in 2026? Closely related. Google’s helpful-content guidelines and the AI-engine citation criteria converge on the same underlying principle: does this page actually help the reader? Optimizing for one usually optimizes for the other. ### How do I measure ‘user optimization’ if engagement metrics are noisy? Track satisfaction signals indirectly: scroll depth, time-on-page, return visits, and (in 2026) AI-engine citation frequency. None alone is reliable; the combination is. ### Does dwell time still matter for SEO in 2026? It correlates with rankings but isn’t a direct signal Google has confirmed. For AI-search citations, dwell-time signal is largely irrelevant — engines evaluate the page’s structural and content quality directly without needing user behavior data. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## What Is A Subdomain, And How Does It Affect Your Site’s SEO? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-a-subdomain/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The subdomain-vs-subfolder debate has the same answer in 2026 as it did in 2018 — subfolders consolidate authority, subdomains fragment it — but AI engines add a new wrinkle. LLMs evaluate trust at the domain level, not the subdomain level, so subdomains inherit less of the parent domain’s authority signal in AI search than they do in classic Google. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The subdomain-vs-subfolder debate has the same answer in 2026 as it did in 2018 — subfolders consolidate authority, subdomains fragment it — but AI engines add a new wrinkle. LLMs evaluate trust at the domain level, not the subdomain level, so subdomains inherit less of the parent domain’s authority signal in AI search than they do in classic Google. The post below covers the SEO mechanics; the GEO section adds the AI-search nuance. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* #### Bottom line Subdomains play a crucial role in shaping your website’s performance in the ever-competitive realm of SEO. These subdivisions of your main domain can profoundly influence user experience, content management, and search engine rankings. Understanding the various subdomain types and their functions is paramount for website owners and digital marketers. To make the most of subdomains, it’s vital to grasp their SEO implications and challenges while staying updated with the latest trends. By effectively leveraging subdomains and aligning them with your SEO strategy, you can enhance your online presence and drive your website to new heights in 2023 and beyond. Understanding the subtleties influencing your site’s [Search Engine Optimization (SEO)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) can be the difference between success and obscurity in this era of online presence and digital marketing. One important aspect of SEO that often remains underestimated is the role of subdomains.  To succeed in the digital industry, master the various subdomain types and understand their impact on SEO. This knowledge is crucial for optimizing your online presence and attracting targeted traffic to your web pages, and I’m here to help you with that. ## Definition and Structure of Subdomains A subdomain is an integral component of your website’s URL structure. To demystify this term, let’s consider your primary domain as the main directory of a library and a subdomain as a unique section within that library.  When you access a subdomain, you enter a distinct part of your website, often used to house specialized content. To illustrate this, think of a primary domain like “example.com.” If this represents the main library, a subdomain such as “blog.example.com” is equivalent to a specific section in the library that exclusively contains books related to blogs.  By comprehending this structure, you’ll be better equipped to explore the potential of subdomains in enhancing your site’s SEO. ## Types, Purpose, and Function of Subdomains Subdomains serve a multitude of purposes in web development. They can be effectively employed for content organization, user experience enhancement, and more.  Let’s delve into some of their functions: ### Content Organization Subdomains allow you to categorize your content neatly, making it more accessible to your audience. For instance, if your website encompasses both articles and e-commerce, you can use “blog.example.com” for your articles and “shop.example.com” for your e-commerce section. This separation makes it easier for visitors to navigate your site. ### Enhanced User Experience Subdomains can significantly impact the user experience by providing clear navigation paths. When users access a subdomain, they know what to expect. Consistency and user-friendliness are key factors in retaining and engaging your audience. ### Multi-Language Websites For businesses targeting a global audience, subdomains are a valuable tool. You can create subdomains in different languages, such as “es.example.com” for Spanish or “de.example.com” for German. This process allows you to tailor content for various regions, ensuring a localized user experience. ### Product or Service Segmentation If your website offers a variety of products or services, subdomains can be used to segregate them. For instance, “products.example.com” could showcase your product range, while “services.example.com” could detail your service offerings. ## Subdomains vs. Subdirectories It’s essential to differentiate between subdomains and subdirectories within your primary [domain](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-growth-with-your-domain-name/). While subdomains create separate sections within your website, subdirectories are simply folders or directories within the main domain.  Let’s examine the distinctions and understand when to use each: ### Subdomains #### Pros Subdomains provide a clear separation of content, enhancing user experience and navigation. They allow for distinct branding and customization, particularly useful for content categories like blogs or e-commerce. Additionally, subdomains can boost security, as issues in one subdomain are less likely to affect others. #### Cons Managing multiple subdomains can be more complex, requiring additional DNS configuration. It may also involve separate content management systems, potentially increasing maintenance efforts. Regarding SEO, subdomains are treated as separate entities by search engines, and building authority for each subdomain can be more challenging. ### Subdirectories #### Pros Subdirectories are simpler to set up and manage as they are part of the same domain. They can be advantageous for grouping related content without the complexities of separate subdomains.  Additionally, they share domain authority, potentially boosting SEO efforts. #### Cons Subdirectories may not provide the same level of content separation and branding as subdomains. For larger websites, especially those with diverse content, subdirectories can lead to content congestion and less effective categorization. ## Subdomains and SEO Rankings One of the primary concerns regarding subdomains is their influence on [SEO rankings](https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/tech/what-is-seo-search-engine-optimization). Search engines, particularly Google, view subdomains as separate entities, and their impact on rankings can be positive and negative. Historically, subdomains were often used to create keyword-rich subdomain URLs to target specific keywords. This approach aimed to achieve higher visibility for these keywords in search results. For instance, a business focused on “green widgets” might have employed a subdomain like “green-widgets.example.com” to enhance its rankings for this particular keyword. However, over time, search engine algorithms have evolved to prioritize the quality and relevance of content over URL structure. Keyword-stuffed subdomains are no longer an effective SEO strategy and may even lead to penalties from search engines for attempting to manipulate rankings. ## Benefits of Using Subdomains for SEO While the historical significance of subdomains for SEO has waned, there are still notable advantages to using them: ### 1\. Improved Content Targeting Subdomains allow you to focus on specific content categories. For instance, if you have a news website, you can use subdomains to separate topics like “sports.example.com” and “entertainment.example.com.”  This process helps users find the content they are interested in more easily. ### 2\. Enhanced User Engagement By providing clear and structured navigation through subdomains, you can enhance the user experience. Visitors can quickly access the desired content, leading to higher engagement and longer time spent on your site. ### 3\. Customization and Branding Subdomains provide the flexibility to customize each subdomain’s design and branding to match its content. This method ensures a consistent and tailored experience for your audience. ## SEO Best Practices for Subdomains To harness the potential of subdomains for SEO, several best practices should be followed: ### Keyword Research Before creating subdomains, conduct thorough keyword research. Identify the keywords or topics you want to target with each subdomain. This research ensures you align your subdomains with relevant and valuable search queries. ### High-Quality Content Content remains king in SEO. Each subdomain should host high-quality, informative, and engaging content. High-quality content not only improves your chances of ranking well but also keeps visitors coming back. ### Link Building Building backlinks to your subdomains is crucial for SEO success. Backlinks from reputable and authoritative websites help establish your subdomains as reliable sources of information. ## Technical Considerations The technical aspects of implementing and managing subdomains are equally vital. They include: ### DNS Configuration Setting up subdomains involves configuring your domain name system (DNS). This process requires expertise to ensure that each subdomain is properly connected to your main domain. Accurate DNS configuration is essential for the functioning of your subdomains. ### Server Setup Subdomains may require separate server setups to manage the content and data associated with each subdomain. Understanding server configurations and ensuring their stability is crucial for the optimal performance of your subdomains. ### Security Managing security for multiple subdomains is a critical consideration. Implement security measures, including SSL certificates, to protect your main domain and subdomains. ### Site Speed Monitor the loading speed of your subdomains. Slow-loading subdomains can deter users and negatively impact SEO. Optimize images, minimize scripts, and use content delivery networks (CDNs) to enhance site speed. ## User Experience Considerations The user experience on your website is paramount. Subdomains can significantly affect how users navigate and engage with your site. Here are some user experience considerations: 1. **Clear Navigation:** When implementing subdomains, ensure your navigation is clear and intuitive. Visitors should easily understand the purpose of each subdomain and how to access the content they want. 2. **Consistent Branding:** Maintain consistent branding elements across all subdomains. Consistency in design, logo usage, and color schemes reinforces your brand identity. 3. **User-Friendliness:** The use of subdomains should enhance user-friendliness. Aim to simplify the user journey, making it effortless for visitors to find the content they seek. ## Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them Subdomains, while offering numerous advantages, can also pose challenges if not managed effectively. To ensure a seamless and effective SEO strategy with subdomains, it’s crucial to understand common pitfalls and how to avoid them. ### Duplicate Content One of the most prevalent subdomain issues is the potential for duplicate content. When the same or similar content exists on multiple subdomains, search engines may struggle to determine which version to display in search results. To mitigate this challenge, use canonical tags to specify the preferred version of a page. ### Content Isolation While subdomains can provide content separation, they can also lead to isolation. Isolated subdomains may not benefit from the domain authority and backlinks earned by your main domain.  To overcome this challenge, implement interlinking strategies that connect relevant subdomains and the main domain. ### Inconsistent Quality Maintaining consistent content quality across all subdomains is crucial. If one subdomain offers subpar content, it can affect the reputation of the entire website.  Regularly review and update content on all subdomains to ensure high quality. ### Keyword Stuffing Avoid the temptation to use subdomains solely for keyword-stuffing purposes. Search engines have become sophisticated at identifying this practice, and it can lead to penalizations.  Focus on providing valuable content rather than manipulating URLs. ## Current SEO Trends and Subdomains The SEO landscape is in a constant state of evolution, and it’s vital to stay updated with the latest trends. Let’s explore some current SEO trends and their implications for subdomains: ### 1\. User Intent Optimization [Google’s algorithms](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2023/06/23/unlocking-the-power-of-algorithms-engage-with-google-and-social-media/) increasingly focus on understanding and matching user intent with search results. Subdomains should align with user intent to enhance search visibility.  Ensuring that each subdomain offers content that caters to specific search queries can improve your rankings. ### 2\. Mobile Optimization The rise of mobile usage continues to impact SEO. Subdomains should be optimized for mobile users, offering responsive design and fast-loading pages. Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in its rankings, so a mobile-optimized approach is essential. ### 3\. Voice Search With the growing use of voice-activated devices, voice search is gaining prominence. Consider tailoring subdomains to answer voice search queries effectively, utilizing natural language and conversational content. ### 4\. Featured Snippets Earning featured snippets the highlighted information boxes in search results, is a coveted achievement in SEO. Each subdomain should aim to provide comprehensive and structured content that could potentially be featured in these snippets. ### 5\. Algorithm Changes and Updates Google’s search algorithms are continuously refined and updated. Keep a close eye on algorithm changes and how they impact the treatment of subdomains. Adjust your SEO strategies accordingly to maintain strong rankings. ## Stay at the Top of Your Seo Game! While we’ve explored the significant impact of subdomains on your website’s search engine optimization, it’s equally crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and search engine algorithms.  Adapting to the new changes will help your site maintain a competitive edge and thrive in the dynamic realm of online visibility. If you found this article informative, make sure to explore my other blog posts covering topics related to website optimization and SEO to enhance your digital presence further: - [How Does SEO Improve Marketing On The Global Scale](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/) - [Improve SEO With Google Autocomplete:](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-google-autocomplete-for-seo/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2023 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ## How subdomains and SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When ChatGPT or Perplexity decides whether to cite a source, it weighs domain reputation, content depth, and structural clarity. Subdomain content gets evaluated against a slightly different baseline than the root domain in my testing — it has to prove its trust independently, even if it’s hosted on a strong parent domain. Practical implication: if you’re spinning up an AI-SEO-focused content hub on your site, host it on the root (yoursite.com/blog/) not on a subdomain (blog.yoursite.com/). The same content on the subfolder gets cited more often in my AI-engine sampling, all else equal. Existing subdomain content isn’t broken — it’s just harder to win citations for than it would be on the root. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for subdomains and SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the technical SEO audit guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/). ## FAQ — subdomains and SEO in the AI search era ### Should I move my subdomain content to a subfolder for AI SEO? If the migration is feasible without breaking links, yes — modest but real lift in my testing. If it requires breaking historical URLs, the migration cost usually outweighs the AI-search lift. Audit case-by-case. ### Do AI engines treat subdomains as separate entities? Mostly yes — they evaluate trust at the subdomain level and cite the subdomain’s URL specifically. Authority transfer from the parent domain is real but partial. ### What about brand subdomains like docs.company.com? Same rule applies. If the docs site is a primary brand asset that needs to be cited in AI answers, hosting on a subfolder helps; on a subdomain it’s a separate trust-building exercise. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## What Is Keyword Clustering And How To Do It: A Complete Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-keyword-clustering/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Keyword clustering — grouping related queries so a single page targets a set of intent-similar terms — was a Google-rankings optimization in 2024. In 2026 it’s a foundation for AI-engine citation: LLMs prefer comprehensive sources that cover a topic cluster fully, not single-keyword landing pages. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** Keyword clustering — grouping related queries so a single page targets a set of intent-similar terms — was a Google-rankings optimization in 2024. In 2026 it’s a foundation for AI-engine citation: LLMs prefer comprehensive sources that cover a topic cluster fully, not single-keyword landing pages. The technique below still applies; the GEO section explains why clustering matters more for AI search than it ever did for classic search. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* One thing that has been the real game-changer for my business is the understanding and [effective use of content SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/).  It might appear like a very tedious task, but once you understand the basics of SEO, you are open to dive deeper into keyword optimization techniques and one word we often come across here is Keyword clustering. Keyword clustering is a technique that utilizes search engine optimization (SEO) to generate groups of related keywords. These combinations are then used to optimize database content in place of a single word.  To water it down for everyone, the only place where you’ll appreciate heavy traffic is when it’s to leverage it for better search engines. This is set to be revolutionary within the digital marketing game.  The process consists of compiling multiple keywords per page, rather than just a few, targeted at optimizing search algorithms. This is a fully automated process with the potential to transform the digital marketing industry. ## Still wondering why you should bother? Organizing your content competently ensures that you are producing data compatible with the search engine, and keyword clustering allows you to do just that. It enables you to create content that is based on what you consider to be your target audience’s interests. Gone are the days where one had to sit in front of an intimidating excel sheet to achieve this or grueling Yellow Pages. Nowadays, software exists that does the hard work, so you don’t have to. That way you can devote your attention to improving your craft and going on holiday (It works so you don’t have to!). By broadening the search key, you’re guaranteed to have more people encountering your page, and so your traffic will increase. Instead of sticking to a specific word to source your website, you have the opportunity to expand your reach. This is achieved by allowing a search made with similar names to link your work still. Linguistically related content is reviewed and the hierarchy between individual content monitored. ## Sounds simple enough Right? Now the how part Google. That’s the answer. Google utilizes its search engine feature to thematically [group content](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/). Google’s ability to understand search engines and interpret intentions helps decipher informational searches from acquisitional ones. Relationships between keywords are traced, and you have the autonomy to control how the groups are made based on clustering type: ### Soft vs. Hard A “cluster” follows that all keywords will be linked, even though they will not all share a standard URL. This is termed “soft clustering.” The alternative is that the cluster formed will consist of only keywords that all have a URL in common. ![Description: https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QDEuKpEQlCPlvkbNVAifukl9Dgd3EaB15Z5BulbGchJCSyiNNNClTgIw4U6bv6p5Lifp1XE07oz5BWlCQh1ODl5eKMxzQFDA0-hGBxPO2LTCLByQLp8OOWVJy8H3FGW8mzowpV4z](/images/posts/inline/b178d97e-image3.png) ### Clustering level: weak, medium or strong The division of levels occurs according to the total number of URLs that are requisite to form a cluster. This varies according to the software used, but here’s a general idea: 1. Weak clustering requires a minimum of at least three URLs in common among the top thirty search results. 2. Medium clustering implores that there be at average, five current URLs for it to be formed. 3. Strong clustering follows that a minimum of seven shared URLs must be acknowledged for a cluster to be created. The general formula for keyword clustering can be broken down into four steps that summarize how the words are grouped. ## Summary of steps involved 1. Individual keywords inputted are sent to the search engine. These are scanned, and the most compatible ten listings are matched to each keyword from the list. 2. If there is a double hit for the same search, the two keywords may be combined (clustered). 3. The least possible number of searches that tally is referred to as a clustering level. This can be tailored by configuring alterations in the settings before clustering. Higher clustering levels generate more groups containing fewer keywords per grouping. The flipside spawns a smaller number of groups with a more extensive range of keywords. 4. The engine search for analogous URLs may come to nothing within the Top-10 data finds. When this happens, keywords get reassigned to different groups. ## Keyword collection  The step that precedes creating clusters includes compiling a [dataset of keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). Though some will be long-tailed and some irrelevant, you’re better off with a surplus of keywords to choose from. Who would have thought there could ever be a situation where quantity matters over quality? The more you have, the greater the assurance you gain that you’ve covered all your bases. The idea is to gather as many as you can so that you never have to repeat the collection process again. So nothing is “too much.” Get as many as you possibly can. I advocate for gathering keywords from multiple sources. Namely, these include, but are not limited to: 1. Your rivals 2. Third-party input engines (AnswerTheRepublic, Ahrefs, Moz, SEMrush, etc.) 3. Your current info in [Google Search Console](https://search.google.com/search-console/about) 4. Conceptualizing your personal ideas and analyzing and verifying them 5. Weaving up keyword aggregates 6. Automate proposed data from Google searches ## How to use the keyword cluster engine Depending on the software chosen, you’ll have a set of steps to follow when using the keyword clustering engine. The basics of them are: 1. Login, and select Clustering 2. Send CSV with your watchwords 3. Select your watchword column 4. Click GO and wait 5. Download your data ![](/images/posts/inline/3c0a8bdc-image8.png) It doesn’t get simpler than that! Results from keyword clustering are then spread across their database pages to increase their rankings in the SERP-search engine results.  Grouping keywords will assist in giving you get a better mastery over your niche. Virtually, it compels you to incorporate more concepts and address more questions on a single page. This is much more than you’d be able to without this tool. Keyword clustering diversifies your approach and makes your content (and hence) your site better. This is measured in terms of making it more beneficial, increased authenticity, and comprehensible. Also Read: [How to Write SEO Articles](https://flux.la/how-to-write-seo-articles/) Do we have your attention yet? Let’s get down to it. ## Technical support: how search engines use keyword clusters  Software developers like [WordStream Keyword Grouper](https://www.wordstream.com/keyword-grouper) automatically group your keyword for you. You provide your list, and they do the dirty work for you. Consider searching for: “cheap healthy meal prep.” This is made up of four terms, “cheap,” “healthy,” “meal,” and “prep.” Breaking down all the keywords into their elemental parts guides you to the next step. Investigate the most commonly repeated in your total dataset. A sample could be considered as: 1. Cheap healthy meal prep 2. Healthy, budget-friendly meal prep ideas for weight loss 3. Healthy, easy and affordable meal prep ideas for bodybuilders You’ll notice that the term “healthy” appears in all of the searches. Its frequency enables us to accurately assume that it will be crucial to our grouping process. Once you’ve pasted your list of keywords and surrendered it, something like this will be generated: ![](/images/posts/inline/0c0ab9ee-image1.png) As you copy and paste onto the spreadsheet, insignificant prepositions like “a,” “to,” may be excluded. ![Description: https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UtT7UEFGLMAo3sCD8\_CZSTuPo9b4dFUkcjhe0L5l0vKv2tDozeDvqQNsAxFjQUXSCohCBjSTd7pjSe5MmdSklzTt2FqTqw-UFRArfwl-m4VvNV2ED4EZE-Gsaerw1EW3Vd0mPQ7x](/images/posts/inline/53fe5cdf-image2.png) Some of the datasets that’ll be generated won’t be relevant to your needs. In this case, keyword clustering helps you sort through the keywords that were a miss. This way, you’re able to exclude irrelevant ones and focus on only those that can be potentially incorporated into your work. Ensure that you add a column to mark out all the topics that you want to block.  Even before formally compiling your data, the clustered keywords provide a frame of reference for the broad theme. The way your consumers may phrase their searches will be influenced by different things. As a content creator, in order to succeed, it is your responsibility to incorporate alternative terms to better present what you offer. ![](/images/posts/inline/550650c2-image7-1-1.png) Relevant: [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ? For users who precisely know what they’re looking for, their search algorithms are quick and clear-cut. This is a bit more complicated for a non-specific search.  With the world increasingly becoming a more connected global community, you’re essentially at a competition with the whole world. Thus, it is of high importance that you master the use of the correct keywords.  Striking a balance between what consumers search for, and the product in the form of the content is essential. This crucial link lies in optimization. The content you create needs to reflect what your users are searching for. This ensures that you remain relevant. Most people remain unaware of the impact this tool could potentially have on their website traffic compared to traditional advertising. Let me give you an example: Sticking to only a single keyword would reduce your impact by over 90%! For your services or products to reach a larger crowd, you have to ensure you’re really putting yourself out there. ![Description: https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/VhMx2iSDFef3W3lWbtHcTXPyLlUdAutmfR5cvYYik00igpDcEemqa10zTQs3MqZ9tFZRW6lonlO\_UodxTdUnJttXtte59Yr4YXmSEJq-4hPLxx82utTjGrAQ4x2tORdqZ7sqKXnJ](/images/posts/inline/c4f2cb37-image6-1.png) ## What is keyword cannibalization? Now that we’ve run you through why keyword clustering is essential, we need to talk about the potential missteps. We’d be doing you a disservice if no mention in this article, was made of keyword cannibalization. The ease that comes with access to posting things online creates yet another problem. Your content runs the risk of getting lost in a mass of information. The word “cannibalization” is used because it depicts cannibalizing and dismantling your own results. While doing this, you grant Google permission to parallel your pages, meaning you’re competing against yourself. An example could be that if your website sells computers. If you only have “computers” as your keyword, you risk falling into the lapse that every page has computers. This disregards brands and other computer accessories that you may provide. Here’s what you should be cognizant of: 1. You’re Generating Watered Down Links and Anchor Texts: Backlinks and internal links no longer lead to a single reliable source but suggest multiple pages. 2. Google May Overlook the Most Significant: If your content all looks the same, in an attempt to get the most appropriate, it may mix things up. 3. You’re Shrinking the Command of Your Page: In place of having a single dominant page, you’re practically disbanding it to numerous ones with more or less consistency. 4. You’re Prodigal With Your Crawl Budget: Your “crawl budget” is a summation of instances when a search engine spider scales your website within a specific time frame. With more pages dedicated to the same keywords, excessive crawling and additional indexing occur. (This is particularly more evident in larger eCommerce websites as opposed to smaller ones.) 5. It Signifies Mediocre Page Quality: Having multiple pages targeting the same thing may be seen as a sign of disorganization. Expectations may be that your content is going to be unsophisticatedly arrayed across. 6. Your Resulting Traffic Will Be Affected: Not all your pages will get the same attention. This will result in inconsistencies between your sheets. You lose possible leads when users end up on less significant pages. ### Identifying keyword cannibalization Luckily, once spotted, reversing keyword cannibalization is super simple. Create a spreadsheet containing a collection of essential URLs from your website. Check for any repetitive entries, any that pop up are the cancers you need to fix. ### How to fix keyword cannibalization 1. Revamp Your Entire Website – Identify your most dominant page and make it your main page. Link any other less authoritative pages to this main one. 2. Centralize A New Landing Page – Providing a landing page that unifies all your content allows you to make a distinction between your data. Having a separate page titled “meal prep for university students” and a different one for “meal prep for losing weight” is a good start.  3. Incorporate all similar content into one – You may need to be honest with yourself and admit that some pages are not necessary. If any appear as duplicates, you may want to consider merging them into one. The combined force of your less official pages may help increase your total traffic once merged. 4. Utilize Different Keywords – If you can’t risk losing your content-rich pages, then maybe just play around with the diction. If you’re assured that thin content isn’t your problem, then substituting new keywords to diversify may be your answer. ## What’s the point? – Benefits offered by keyword grouping The extent to which you’ll be able to intercept keyword searches and make accurate speculations influences how impactful your website will be. [Configuring your content](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) to enhance user experience makes keyword clustering wholly necessary.  In a nutshell, the work input is keyword management, married with consistent monitoring of consumer behavior. On the other end, the output is mastering your niche and thus maximizing the impact of your search algorithms. If your aim is to attain solid rankings, then keyword clustering is exactly what you need. Are there any points I have missed that you think are vital in the world of keyword clustering? Let me know in the comments section below. What’s been working for you? If this article helped you, do check out my other guides and reviews here. - [How to get more followers on Tiktok?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-followers-on-tiktok/) - [How you can unhide Instagram likes](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-see-instagram-likes-count-hidden/) - [Useful SEO Tips for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) ## How keyword clustering works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When an AI engine is choosing sources to cite for a query, it implicitly evaluates topical depth. A page that covers the head term + 8 related variations + the FAQ around them is more likely to get cited than 9 thin pages each targeting one variation. Clustering used to be a content-efficiency play; in the AI-search era it’s a citation-rate play. The structural overlay matters too. A cluster page should open with a TL;DR, walk through the cluster’s sub-topics with H2s that match each sub-query, and end with an FAQ that mirrors the literal phrasing of the related questions. That’s the format AI engines extract from cleanest. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for keyword clustering 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the programmatic SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/). ## FAQ — keyword clustering in the AI search era ### Will clustering hurt my long-tail keyword rankings? No — done right, clustering captures more long-tail variations on a single strong page than you’d get from spreading them across thin individual pages. The trick is making sure each long-tail variation is addressed somewhere in the body. ### How big should a keyword cluster be in 2026? 5-15 closely related keywords per page is a good range. Larger clusters dilute relevance; smaller clusters waste page authority. The cluster should share intent — informational vs. commercial vs. transactional shouldn’t mix. ### Do AI engines understand keyword clusters the way Google does? They understand topical depth, which is what clustering produces. They don’t index ‘keywords’ the way classic Google does — they extract semantic meaning from the content. A well-clustered page reads as comprehensive, which is exactly what AI engines reward. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## What is SEO – And How Does it Work? [Intro for Beginners] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: SEO is still about helping search engines understand your content and recommend it. The new wrinkle in 2026 is that the ‘search engine’ is no longer just Google — it’s also ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and Claude. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** SEO is still about helping search engines understand your content and recommend it. The new wrinkle in 2026 is that the ‘search engine’ is no longer just Google — it’s also ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and Claude. The fundamentals below still apply. The GEO section adds what’s different. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* Today, there are over [1.8B websites in existence](https://www.internetlivestats.com/watch/websites/). How can you ensure that people find your site when they search on Google, Yahoo, Baidu or Bing? Your site needs to be trustworthy, have content that answers the query of the user and be well-designed. This is all covered in the world of **SEO** (Search Engine Optimization). If you are new to SEO, don’t fret. In this post I will cover the basics of SEO (including its definition) and provide you with a guide to do SEO yourself (for free). Read on. ## What does SEO mean? SEO stands for **Search Engine Optimization**, and it describes the logic behind the ranking of websites when you perform a search on a particular *search engine* (such as Google). In short, SEO can be defined as a digital marketing strategy that helps increase the quantity and quality of the traffic to your site. The optimization part of SEO comprises [a series of steps that you can take to rank higher on Google and thus get free organic traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/). Notice that I said *steps,* meaning that as long as you follow each of the steps (and are patient) you will notice great results. Although it may seem tedious and painful at the start, SEO can actually be rather fun and easy to implement. The best way to understand [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/) nowadays is to break down its meaning. In that manner, SEO is: 1. **A marketing discipline** – understanding SEO is crucial to all your marketing efforts because this way you will be able to drive traffic to your website and generate leads and conversions. You not only need to write content that Google likes but also content that will resonate with your audience. 2. **A technical task** – knowing the best practices to optimize your content and site is important if you are planning to compete for traffic. People that know the ins and outs of search engine optimization are highly sought after because the ROI they bring is high. 3. **An exciting field –** I don’t know about you but to me, creating dope content and generating leads for free is quite amazing. Also, I love the ever evolving nature of SEO and the fact that it requires marketers like me to constantly read up on new [algorithm changes](https://moz.com/google-algorithm-change) and more. For you visual learners, here’s a cool simple video that describes SEO in detail. Bonus: [Which 11 key SEO areas should focus on to rank higher?](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## How does SEO work? When a user searches for a term on a search engine like Google, the results that he or she is presented with is a series of **websites that are relevant to the query** and **websites that have a solid domain authority** (among other factors described below). For example when you search for ‘chocolate cake ideas’, the *top results are the ones that are adopting the best SEO practices* in Google eyes. This is mainly because **the search engines use advanced crawlers** that gather the information on every website, gathering every bit of content it can find on the Internet. That creates an index for every website that is compared to the algorithm that Google has built for the best SEO practice. Here’s Matt Cutts from Google explaining how this all works: ## Which factors affect SEO? Whether you are trying to learn more about SEO or want [actual ranking techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) on how to improve your website’s SEO, there is a **set of [on-site](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) and [off-site](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) factors** that Google and other search engines favor when ranking every site. Even though **there are more than 200 factors in the Google algorithm that affect how your site rank**s, the good news is that anyone can improve their website by simply working on a handful of them. ![](/images/posts/inline/83d00c49-seo-graphic-1.png) ## The 8 most important SEO factors to rank high in 2020: ### **1\. Domain Authority** Domain Authority (DA) is a metric that shows how much trust your domain has built over time by a matter of backlinks and age. > The more sites that talk about yours, the higher your authority. Similarly, the older your domain, the higher its domain authority. Another important factor that I’ve found is the relevance of the domain name in respect to the main keywords you are targeting. For instance, seoexpert.com will be more likely to rank better than lucysblog.com for “seo” related queries. Lastly, a few of my SEO expert friends have reported that shorter domains will generally outperform longer domains. You can also boost your domain authority by building backlinks to your site. ### **2\. Keywords** SEO begins with [picking the right keyword](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/)s (which you can very well find using [Google’s Keyword Planner](https://adwords.google.com/home/tools/keyword-planner/) or [Ahrefs](http://ahrefs.com)). My [strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) with a brand new blog is to start by picking medium to low competition keywords and then slowly build up my post to target more competitive terms. If you are looking to rank then you should definitely include LSI keywords (keywords that are synonyms to your target terms). For instance, a site that talks about “[portable chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/)” can also include terms such as “power banks”, “portable batteries for phones” and so forth. Make sure to include the keywords that you want to rank for in the title and in the sub-headings for [perfect on-page optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). Want me to write the articles for you? Check out this: - [ Sale Product on sale ![Perfect SEO Article Writing (+1 revision)](/images/posts/inline/bb4894da-perfect-seo-article-writing.png) Perfect SEO Article Writing (+1 revision) ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/article-writing/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/article-writing/) ~$500~ Original price was: $500.$325Current price is: $325. Rated **4.83** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/16244?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus&add-to-cart=22492) ### **3\. Relevancy and Context** Search engines are smarter than ever before. They do know the difference between a relevant page and a copied one. They can also distinguish whether just site is about oranges or protein bars. I recommend sticking to a niche when building out a site and catering content specific to that particular niche. For me, my niche is [online marketing and SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/). ### **4\. Number of Inbound and Outbound links** The more relevant links your website is pointing to, the greater your SEO score. Same goes for inbound links which are actually more favored, especially if they are coming from prestigious, relevant and popular sources. You can get backlinks by [getting yourself featured on big news sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) for example. ### **5\. Site Speed** Google really cares about how quickly your site loads. To speed up your site you can use caching plugins such as [W3 Total Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/w3-total-cache/) or use a CDN to deliver your content in a faster way. ### **6\. Clean and responsive design** Nowadays, the best optimized websites are the ones that are clean, functional and responsive to devices of all types and sizes. In fact, Google even favors websites that have **mobile-friendly design** than ones that don’t have. If you are using WordPress, you can install the [AMP plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/amp/) to have your site load blazingly fast. If your site is not using WordPress, you should learn how to make use of the [accelerated mobile pages project by Google](https://www.ampproject.org/). ### 7\. URL structure The easier your url, the better it is for humans and search engines to understand what your post is all about. Here are two examples: a) alejandrorioja.com/blog/what-is-seo/ b) alejandrorioja.com/blog/archives/12/17/2018/seo/?p=23 Clearly example A is better because it’s **descriptive** and to the point. Several studies have confirmed that the shorter the url, the better. Nevertheless, you still want to make sure you are including your top keyword in the slug for an added SEO juice. ### 8\. Length of your content Whenever you are writing a [blog post that you want to rank](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-optimized-article/), you want to make sure you are going into as much detail as possible. Search Engines have been rewarding long-form content and in 2018, you won’t rank unless you write at least 1500-2000 words per post. David Pagotto, the Founder & Managing Director at [SIXGUN](https://sixgun.com.au/) explains: “The quality and length of content on a particular page can really impact ranking performance. Particularly when the content hits on all aspects of EAT – expertise, authoritativeness and trustworthiness.” When you write long form content, you give yourself the chance to explore a topic in depth, which in turns increases the time that some visitor spends on your site and signals Google that your content is awesome. ### If you have a new site, how would you start with SEO? A lot of my readers ask me this question: *“If I had to start all over with a brand new domain, how would I do it?”* I actually just started that experiment with my new site: [The Insurance Nerd](http://theinsurancenerd.com). As you can guess by the name, the site covers topics about insurance and health care. I picked this niche because 1) it is hard 2) it [pays very well on Adsense](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/). I picked a hard niche to test if the [SEO principles I teach](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) work, and they do. So what is the strategy, I follow? I covered the step-by-step plan [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), but it can be summarized as: 1. [Find medium-tail keywords that have decent volume](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) 2. [Create long content that is 1500+ words](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/) (btw, I can [write it for you](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/article-writing/)!) 3. Build backlinks by guest posting That’s it. There’s not much more to it. ### Which tools can you use for SEO? There’s many good tools out there. My favorite ones are (they are all free!): 1. [Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com/) or [SEMRush](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/semrush/) to analyze each url and see who’s linking to them and what keywords they rank for (free version, although I suggest getting the paid one). 2. [Keywords Everywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/) to understand the volume and competition of my queries 3. [Google Search Console](https://search.google.com/search-console/about) to see how my site is performing over time. I use those tools for 97% of what I do. For the remaining 3% such as backlink building tools and others, read my [complete list of SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools). ### Why should you do SEO? Great question. SEO has the potential to drive tons of quality leads to your website **for free**. For instance, when you search for “top SEO consultant”, aren’t you more likely to become a client of whoever shows up on Google? This is the power of search engine optimization. It brings you warm leads that you can later [deliver ads to](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) or [even sell products to](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). ### Alternatives to SEO: Is SEO better than PPC? SEO is way better than PPC (pay per click) because you don’t have to spend money on ads to drive traffic to your site. With PPC, your traffic will stop as soon as you stop paying for ads. SEO has a much longer-lasting effect. On the flipside, the advantage of PPC is that if you have a well-converting sales page, you can very easily grow your sales from day 1 without having to wait for all the SEO efforts to kick in months later. The SEM formula is much more predictable than SEO, but SEO will pay for many more months. ### What are SEO backlinks? Backlinks are simply links from an external site to yours. For example, when I link to this [SEO agency in Los Angeles](http://flux.la), I am generating a backlink for them. The more high quality backlinks you get, the higher the authority and rank of your site. Therefore, building backlinks is a [key SEO task](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) if you want to reach page #1. ### Are these tips just for Google SEO? Google dominates the search engine space with almost 80% of all global searches. Yahoo and Bing have about 9% each. Even though the techniques we’ve been discussing here are particularly about Google SEO, they apply to all search engines alike. ### Are there any other alternatives to SEO? Given that SEO’s main purpose is to drive traffic to your site, you can also get more visits by means of ads (like Google Adwords or Facebook ads), you can also drive traffic through affiliate links and [get quoted on articles in highly trafficked sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/). ### How can you learn SEO? In the end, the best way to learn SEO is by doing it. The more organic, natural and unique content you write on your responsive website, the better results you should expect. However, just like every other digital marketing practice, SEO requires time (at least a couple of months to kick-off) so be a bit patient and don’t get discouraged. It took me at least a year to start seeing some consistent traffic on my site. The bottom line is that SEO is not a one-time job. It is a recurring strategy that every website should focus on. It can take time, but if you’re willing to learn then it will definitely pay off in the long-run. If you are serious about learning SEO, check out my [top SEO posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) and also consider subscribing to my newsletter. Want to learn how I do SEO? Check [this post](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). **Bonus: Download the free ebook on SEO for beginners by signing up here:** ## A final word Getting organic traffic is just the [first step in building a successful business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/), don’t forget that you can also get traffic by [getting featured on major sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/), driving a lot of traffic from social media, and building a loyal fan base that will continuously buy from you and refer their friends. Need an SEO pro? 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[How to write the perfectly optimized article](https://flux.la/perfect-seo-optimized-article/) 4. [The highest paying Adsense keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) ## How SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) If you’re new to SEO and reading this in 2026, the right mental model is two surfaces, one strategy. Surface 1 is classic Google: a ranked list of links. Surface 2 is AI search: a synthesized answer with cited sources. Both surfaces draw from the same pool of indexed pages. If your page isn’t well-optimized for surface 1, it won’t show up on surface 2 either. What’s actually different for surface 2 is structure. Generative engines extract answers; they prefer pages that lay the answer out cleanly. A short TL;DR block at the top, a numbered step-by-step section, and an FAQ that mirrors literal user questions are the three structural moves that move AI-engine citation rates the most in my testing. Everything else — keyword research, on-page basics, backlinks — still applies. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [the complete keyword research guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — SEO in the AI search era ### What’s the difference between SEO and GEO? SEO targets ranked search results. GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) targets citations inside AI-generated answers. The underlying signals overlap a lot — both reward authoritative, well-structured, well-linked content. GEO adds three structural requirements on top: a quotable TL;DR, a numbered step-by-step block, and an FAQ section. ### Do I need to do anything different for ChatGPT vs Google? Not really, at the strategy level. The structural moves that earn citations in ChatGPT (TL;DR, numbered steps, FAQ, schema, primary-source links) are the same moves that earn them in Perplexity, AI Overviews, and Claude. Pick the structural pattern, apply it consistently across your site, and you cover all four engines at once. ### Where should a beginner actually start in 2026? Pick your top 5 organic pages, add a TL;DR at the top of each, add an FAQ at the bottom, add Article + FAQPage schema, and link them to each other. That’s a one-week project that disproportionately pays off in both classic and AI search. Then come back and read the rest of this site. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## What Is SERP And How Does It Work? A Closer Look Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-serp/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The classic 10-blue-link SERP is no longer the only result page Google shows. In 2026 the SERP is a layered surface: organic results sit underneath an AI Overview, sometimes a People-Also-Ask, sometimes a Featured Snippet — and adjacent engines like Perplexity and ChatGPT have their own answer surfaces. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** The classic 10-blue-link SERP is no longer the only result page Google shows. In 2026 the SERP is a layered surface: organic results sit underneath an AI Overview, sometimes a People-Also-Ask, sometimes a Featured Snippet — and adjacent engines like Perplexity and ChatGPT have their own answer surfaces. The fundamentals below still describe the SERP; the GEO section explains the layered version. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* The process of searching for an item on google, then Google displaying appropriate results is extremely fascinating. Google is one of the top search engines on the internet. In the digital age, information is just one click away.  Google receives over 63,000 searches every day. Meaning, search engines process a huge amount of information.  On an average, a person will do research 3 to 4 times a day. That’s a lot! I am always fascinated by how Google manages to provide results to every search query. Explore this topic by reading this article. ## What is SERP? What is the meaning of SERP? This acronym stands for Search Engine Results Page. It is the process of how search engines respond to the search queries of internet users. It is like the intelligence behind search results. The following are SERP features: 1. Organic research results  2. Paid results 3. Featured Snippets 4. Knowledge Graphs 5. Video Results Search Engine Results Page basically provides possible results to every keyword searched. Keywords play an important role in SERP for it will be utilized to analyze what results to display. Keywords serve as links to results. The search engine will tend to display results based on the words typed by users and displaying what is most relevant. In terms of [displaying the results](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/),  you will understand the relevance of SERP features in providing search results. Read further to explore more about SERP. ## What happens when we search? When we search for information on the internet, search engines read it as keywords. All pages that are viewed as relevant to the keywords are identified and indexed. Search engine algorithms rank the pages into sets of results.  Search engines use the following relevant data in order to rank results: 1. Location 2. Detected language 3. Search history 4. Device There are search engines that rely on the location in order to process data. Location is relevant for searches that require it such as searches relevant to directions. This will give results relevant to the location of the user. For example, the search results for users in a certain country will be most likely to be displayed first as the local results. Meaning, the items displayed by SERP can be found within the locality of the user. In detected language, if the user’s language can be detected, search engines can display results related to the language. Same is the case with location – ,displayed results will be related items pertaining to the detected language. Search engines also use search history to generate results. For example, if the user frequently searches for a certain topic, search engines are more likely to generate results based on the frequently searched topic. Furthermore, search history creates a trend which is analyzed by SERP to display the possible preference of the user. Search engines also generate results based on the device used by the users.  A set of results is created based on the device used to search the query. For example, search results in iOS may be different from the search results in Android devices and even personal computers. It is relevant for SERP in order to generate accurate results as possible. Relevant: [Learning keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) ## Search Engine Results Page (SERP) Anatomy The SERP might not be a big deal to some internet users, but this is an important topic to discuss in digital marketing. As defined, SERP is the process where search engines display search results. This process happens in an instant. To further understand SERP, take a look at its anatomy. It will provide insights on where to find a specific part of SERP and understand its functions. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/lM-17_STE_QKWHK2dz99tykqSn4IYkBWsclBJPHmBxfEbszKtZpu7UwJTmpBnjX8gYZyjXGCNa_-C_sNZ_FYhg_S2zALN7_AiO5-A5plnY-M4WnXsBqSaEckTgPyVsBgkVL3p9ib) The top part of the results page, the uppermost result is where the featured snippets are displayed as search results. Next, is the paid result. Next to the paid results are the frequently asked questions or ‘people also ask’ portion. Then, follows the organic result. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_aErGGv-lRCnHJzwF8CjGaQcDPaejQ_Js_GDTfpde3jLZmFz5NP9se_biLFkT2u-9gVp4Zq557pDWm10KRxt8AJdv6GrfA7wliHenxJiq1aEXbMwm3nBV-PLj3Rijwqj7ezr7Lbw) The middle and the bottom part of the page result are divided into the following: image result, another paid result, and related searches. As observed, paid results can also be displayed at the bottom of the page prior to related searches. ## Search results: A closer look ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xiTexwcIU2-7kxdGSul7JKwzWSMCXCsuJ2yO22G2HNpRGl-tzkwwsYxM6ub_OEUq2TGFujqgjNWNMHwph94hCrWK7cekmTxkos9uaXIIqSI_JOdliDsk2RQhUsS6yLwcf3KhdYnT) Google has different categories in displaying results. These are the paid and organic results. These two have different classifications and conditions in order to gain the top spot of the search results. Basically, [paid research results are advertisements](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/). These are paid by website owners to make their websites appear in certain keywords searches.  In other terms, companies pay Google or any other search engines in order to appear in search results. You can spot these results through its markings. Search engines give them a shaded background, a yellow ad marking, borderlines, and other visual hints.  Many users may not notice that paid results are actually advertisements. Even though it has a mark indicating that it is an advertisement, it appears to be native in the search results. As a result of this, the advertisement can gain an advantage to clicks compared with other search results. Website owners and companies pay for this chance to appear in Google search results instead of [developing their SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/) where it takes time to build. Paid searches are an alternative to organic searches. Paid results also may appear at the bottom of the page. With this, organic research is crowded with paid results. On the other hand, organic results are natural search results. They are located below the paid results. Rooting from the word organic, these results are generated from the search engine algorithm referring to frequently searched keywords. Organic results or natural results filter results based on its relevance to the keywords. Earning a high rank in organic results boosts authority and credibility for website owners. That is why there are companies that invest in increasing its search rankings. Organic results usually take a small portion of the results page compared to the results for paid ads. When using small-display devices, organic results may be limited to one or two results.  In a realistic sense, it takes a long time for website owners to [build their search rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). Website owners usually do not wait that long in order to achieve higher conversions. Time is a crucial factor, especially in digital marketing.  On the opposite, If website owners are after a cost-efficient increase in search rankings, organic results are the best option. Website owners may utilize readily available tools or hire people to boost their search rankings. Hence, paid or organic results are displayed according to its relevance with the searched terms. Those two search results can be considered as essential.  ### Featured snippets Featured snippets are also called answer boxes displayed on search results. These are the short answers given by search engines directly in the search results. In other terms, they provide immediate answers directly displayed in the search results. For example, if you are looking for information about “paid search results”, search engines display a featured snippet at the top of search results. Featured snippets provide answers to the query asked in the search engine. The search engine displays quick relevant information based on the keywords searched. What is the relevance of featured snippets in SERP? As SERP displays featured snippets, 8.6% of clicks go to it. It means that featured snippets earn the attention of traffic compared with other organic search results. This means a lot in digital marketing. Featured Snippets appear in different forms. Following are some examples: #### 1\. Numbered list ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PEBzXLZsEzxeE0upqzup-7XgXm7lfXTCTFOLk5rBdJyP0nFb-F19ABBSccwI-_fmBoh0Pk2xwmt-mTAJBgcJo-xwNyCho_tlp_6mSKd6XdPZiZGaSKO5UmUpFCKd7AIgNb9RCM5B) Search engines will display numbered snippets if the user’s query implies looking for steps. In the example above, the user is trying to look for ideas on how to start a business. A numbered list featured snippet is included in the search result. Link is also provided where users can click to explore more on the presented ideas. #### 2\. Paragraph ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/V7o-CHGZy4gwJ6-4j84ffHidoVd2cKOSh5wjuCVXYzA54r5wwKf8ERCCIysylp5wgIdSvptUrO7YLqortQrtPp4w4ICrWgNTu86eQHxiR0ohuhd_1YkbC-wdPYzz99p5Kag16mff) In this example, a user looked for the meaning of commercial insurance. The featured snippet provided quick information about the searched query. The result provided an explanation in paragraph form. Also, the very nature of featured snippet, it provides a link to a website where users can explore more about the information. #### 3\. Bulleted list ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zIwnvsrmefEUiAiKoGWv_WJk4Qot5gRkPQj4lvZbiF71bX77pOSjVbnDBE8DE3OcjFa1jFsvFw_nHfWnVLPnb0RlTnz0otmpdSGl5h_ez-CAPKaBY6evUOZKvVFah2bhGawNgOyl) Bulleted list snippet appears when the research query is related to list, ranked and unranked items, and feature lists. Based on the example, the user searched for iPhone models. SERP displays the results including a bulleted list snippet showing the different models of iPhones.  #### 4\. Table featured ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/MfAN2ZbzWwmTZeAlNde0UBBPIliwpkfnuV219bl6YceFeEiQrwF137obEN39sCbDJX4PCOlF2WVcBmZIsjMs9lajWYFZFPYh_nRWWSRi_kZZOybrmwLNSNQ7MZeq1AbE3xCG57d3) The table featured snippets are usually displayed when users tend to look for pricing, lists, rates, and data. For example, a user searched for the price list for luxury cars. The SERP displays tabled feature snippets in search results. The table snippet contains the tabular presentation of car models, retail prices, and fuel consumption. Also, like other types of snippets, table feature snippets also include landing websites where the table is published. #### 5\. YouTube featured ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4a_76G2FnfiZqY65fRU8ROAN30qsCmUihOvMVsGpod5gh-5SKCvC6ONo9bwYjV1sX5tXmefSNTcociJ488g_pHnFzjA2ejSIsccgk1K5YxZtLQ1Ui-zqdqZo07CN_1S30zkz4TUs) Thanks to Google Video Intelligence API that can decode video content. It can identify objects in the video and match them with related keywords. Here, the tool jumped into the timestamp where the searched content can be seen. Here, the user tried to look for the procedures on how to perform an oil change on a motorcycle. The SERP included in the set of results the YouTube featured snippet. YouTube featured snippets can appear for any type of search query. It is included when the illustration is best via video.  There are other search results that look like a featured snippet. How can we tell that it is not a featured snippet? The main characteristic of a featured snippet is that Google attributes the result to any particular website. ### Rich answers Rich answers may look like snippets. But technically, it is not a snippet. It is a quick answer in SERP.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/63Oc9-hfcN8qqcGCGoU7kwQPyBfz1-eNPJ6PoQ4qnHQQRG3YO_g4Jl6-QLFYxlnT2uqvY_cmABMBLIVxwagqwiWLifYWpNp7dZ8ztoJOEnqb_QuO6UPAkdbJtIuQdxrD3Yvcvxd2) For example, a user searched for the distance of Earth from its moon. The SERP provides results including rich answers. Rich answers may look like snippets. As seen in the picture, it is also featured at the top of the results. Rich answers do not have links to a landing website, unlike snippets. That makes it different from snippets. ### Knowledge graphs ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Lu20z5kBt4iHlptX0yRxe3qERzXDoG2aVfdjydwJNj7GbchcjxngBTKPXSkTwyZHwEQ9hJpiIIZPaqNUf_U7cea-1SoeM7HcI9Ijd1q0NoDUuNKHgIoufUdHpQlRv1ez_c5LPRlQ) While other results rely on keywords, knowledge gaps try to anticipate what the users are looking for. To make it more vivid, Google understands the keywords semantically instead of literally displaying results. This results in a more intelligent answer to a query.  Knowledge graph panels are giving users relevant information without clicking a link. Also, it gives digital marketers a chance to enhance their visibility.  There is a dilemma between knowledge graphs and rich results. The main distinction between these two is determined by its accessibility of content. Rich results provide users limited control over the content while in knowledge graphs, users can suggest changes. ### Video Results ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vd7RrOP7Jv1Cb83uJuPKWVQjv2pPA8teTwrzrxp-eKaPXxrM4P1j6-SOy9MhaGn1NS95h1IvjvzuSCR33hpnVbEUUBxd3NGQKVbvsSnkIb7d3B_YMYQ2AHXgsWc9cwIpBN6GLvbR) SERPs are displaying more [content through videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-youtube-videos/). In the world of the internet, videos are the most inviting content. Statistics show that 55% of people watch videos every single day.  As the algorithm of SERP advances, it can also suggest clips from videos. The special feature of this result is that it can jump into the timestamp where the content can be watched. SERP does not only display video results, but it can also jump into a specific timestamp where the content searched is featured. Google tends to give preference to landing pages with video content. Having video content on your website can exploit the dwell time ranking boost that Google uses to rank web pages. ### Image search results ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/6J7TWeOW0uAUHOq8QTnOLO6_pT_hsXj7B9Q6p4wmcCjDCxBiMxy66vwSm2gwXL2bGKoby9Fj10I2FF4KPjM6oyNay7jCIidMZ-tyF2L5kxbL4jPOQTXd090_OR1K6Malx93AlsCS) The image search results are generated from relevant keywords where images can make sense. The results link the users to different related images. For example, if a user looks for a headset, the SERP will display images of various headsets. The SERP associates the keyword searched to related images matching it.  ### People also ask This is a new feature in SERP that is usually located in the middle. Upon clicking one of the frequently asked questions, search engines will expand consisting of an answer to the query.  Search engines list questions related to the searched terms. The answers that expand from the questions are from blog posts, videos, and podcasts.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/H1GXJTdKHvIElzWqnaIzVhWtKCyVP60o6gvG0zXQAxWxIuAtrJ-DAjDpqNZczuRgXY4S8YBRX_6018YWriRB2FmwosWPvfShLpfl4_EeLguGp6ZHD92azozAxMySOqSByQYQpquZ) For example, a user searched for “how to achieve 6-pack abs”. People also ask a portion of SERP to indicate the frequently asked questions based on the recent searches done by other users. If a user clicks one of the questions, the selection will expand and display the most relevant answer to the question.  ### Top stories This SERP features news articles on a certain topic. Searching for trending keywords is not the only way to generate top story results. Even if the search volume of a certain topic is stable, SERP will always display the Top Stories section.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OVWE-JtBE1o-lGopTcYVGdpRY-pSJuCdIpVbmWQKkHUCHW_bBxOyW-LvYQDcuAYLa_EBMOpFfIKxP_Lt2QJ34U54xUi0mYCyYUdyL_QC5Q-i14B31OIVNqiwRqk3sKCBsvyzl5On) Top stories section will not appear in all searches. In this example, the user looks for “overcoming fear”. The SERP includes the results of the top stories. The top stories included are videos from different websites that are relevant to the searched keyword. Top stories also provide other stories aside from the displayed links. This feature offers websites the opportunity to gather clicks aside from organic and paid search results. ### Shopping results Not all shopping results are advertisements. [Organic search results](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) include shopping results and it is located usually at the top of paid results.  The SERP displays shopping results based on the user’s location. This implies that the results are dependent on the location where the search was made. The result may show nearby areas or local online selling platforms. ## Bottom line To sum up, the Search Engine Results Page (SERP) is the process taken by search engines to display results. SERP has the following features: featured snippets, rich answers, paid results, people also ask, image result, video result, top stories, and shopping results. SERP may not be an important idea for most people, but it holds great importance for digital marketers. Understanding what SERP is and how it works, can help generate strategies to initiate more conversions.  Did you like the article? Let me know in the comments below. To further explore ideas related to SERP, read these articles  - [Tips to increase your subscriber count on YouTube](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-more-subscribers-on-youtube/)  - [All about Facebook marketplace](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/)  - [Understanding Google analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/)  ## How SERPs works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) An AI Overview is now the first thing many users see for how-to and informational queries. It cites 3-7 sources directly underneath, and a click on a citation counts as a referral in your analytics. So ‘ranking on the SERP’ in 2026 means two things: ranking high enough in classic results to be considered as an AI Overview source, and being structured cleanly enough that the LLM can lift an answer from your page. What gets you cited inside the AI Overview surface: a concise TL;DR at the top of the page, schema markup (Article + FAQPage + HowTo), an FAQ section using literal user-question phrasing, and primary-source citations linking to the AI providers themselves. Pages that already rank in the top 5 organically and have those structural moves get cited disproportionately often. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for SERPs 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [17 white-hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ## FAQ — SERPs in the AI search era ### Are AI Overviews replacing the classic SERP? Not replacing — layering on top. Classic organic results still appear underneath the AI Overview block; many users scroll past it. The AI Overview is an additional surface, not a substitute, and being cited in it is a separate visibility goal from ranking organically. ### Do AI Overviews send less traffic than #1 organic? Per click, yes — the click-through rate on an AI Overview citation is lower than #1 organic. But the citations are higher-intent (users in research mode) and the surface is new enough that most competitors aren’t optimizing for it. Net effect for early movers is positive in my logs. ### How do I check whether my page is being cited in an AI Overview? Manual sampling for now: query your head terms in Google AI Overviews and Perplexity weekly, log the citations. Tools like Profound and Athena are starting to automate AI-Overview tracking; rank trackers from Ahrefs and SEMrush are adding it too in 2026. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## 17 Actionable White Hat SEO Techniques to Rank on Google 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/ Published: 2026-05-03 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: SEO TL;DR: All 17 white-hat techniques below still work in 2026 — and most of them work even better for AI engines, because LLMs preferentially cite high-trust sources. The GEO section adds three additional tactics specific to ChatGPT, Perplexity, and AI Overview citation rate. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** All 17 white-hat techniques below still work in 2026 — and most of them work even better for AI engines, because LLMs preferentially cite high-trust sources. The GEO section adds three additional tactics specific to ChatGPT, Perplexity, and AI Overview citation rate. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* We all know what it could mean for your business if you are [ranking higher on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). It is one of those things that can make or break a business. But, it can be quite a difficult task especially if you’re just starting and not really familiar with using  [SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/). I remember back when I started my site, I was certain that I can thrive on good content only and the rest will happen.  That was not the case, of course. Just because you have good content and you’re hard-working doesn’t grant you the first page of Google. I asked myself how can I change this and realized I need to make the most of white hat SEO techniques. Since then I have never looked back and my business has only gotten better.   They are fairly easy to implement and they are good for anybody no matter the level of SEO they use. Today, I can rank my posts almost effortlessly on the first page of Google, and oftentimes even as number 1. If you would prefer to watch a video with some of the best techniques, here’s Backlinko’s take on it: ## **1.** **Optimize Page Titles, Descriptions and Other Tags** If you want to do well on the search engines, you have to pay attention to [on-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) factors on your website. Usually overlooked, the page’s Meta titles and Meta descriptions play a big role in your potential ranking. These Meta tags are the first things Google sees when crawling a website, and that is why this is the perfect place to add your most important keywords. Let’s talk a bit about Meta tags, what they are and why they are important. ### Meta Tags Meta tags are very important simply because they can impact how your page ranks on the search engines and determine how many people are drawn to click on your link. This is the whole point of SEO, right? Your page ranking high, and people finding your content helpful. That is how meta tags influence conversion, engagement rates, traffic, rankings, etc. All the most important things for any website. You just can’t have a good SEO strategy without meta tags and no webpage should fail to develop them no matter how small or big they are. But, what exactly are meta tags? Meta tags are little pieces of information that tell the search engines what type of information your page contains. Within meta tags, there are many other important sections like: - Title tags - Meta description - Viewport tags -  Canonical tags -  Hreflang tags - Open graph tags ### Page/meta title   ![](/images/posts/inline/6ecb371e-meta-tags.png) Every page on your website should serve a unique purpose. When somebody visits your webpage, they should be able to tell immediately what your business is and where it is located. Many people make the mistake of actually labeling their home page title as default “Home”. This sends zero confidence to search engines that this is actually a site for a particular business. If we take a dentist as an example, a good page title might be “Colorado Springs Best Dentist | Acme Dentist Services” instead of just a default title. Giving a descriptive page title can capitalize on search results. Telling a better story than just with “Home” which is not very good for SEO. Another hack that you can include when choosing a Meta title, it’s to include title modifiers as the following: 1. Numbers: 6 tips, 7 tricks, 10 SEO techniques, etc. 2. The Year: 2020 guide, 2019 recipes, etc. 3. The following words: free, guide, simple, easy, step-by-step, etc. By including these Meta title hacks, you will most certainly increase your CTR, which will be rewarded heavily by Google’s latest [Rankbrain algorithm update](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). ### Page/meta descriptions Although not as important to rankings in comparison to page titles, the meta description is all about getting people to click on your listing vs the other 9 results on the page. Also known as click-through rate, you want your description (which can now be up to 320 characters) to drive as many clicks to your site as possible. What separates you from your competition, and how do you stand out? First, you want to be honest about what your website is about. You should never present your listing in a grey light. Doing so will create mistrust among users and ultimately they will go directly back to the search results causing them to bounce (pogo-sticking). High bounce rates show Google that your site is not worthy of the results and with the introduction of RankBrain, an AI search bot, Google will take note and devalue your website as a result. Your description should be a quick and well-written synopsis of what the page is all about. The copy should be enticing and promotional leading into what the person is searching for. It is a great place to add keywords through which people typically find you. The searcher knows exactly what they want based on the keywords they input into Google. Your description should always follow suit. A superb place to find ideas for your Google Meta info is on the ads shown at the top of search results. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/a8J1-DbiUzWwzpc1DVBNqpWnI1UBEGJSOwD_y2EbifRTry2anEsTDJzNJqHdEFqVDc2Bh8Lb64DunjqI_zqnoHrS4EcWzQTnDhpJjXAlO9h4D-k1w6fBM25gEtUelAlLYVJtH_V7) These ads have been tested for the best conversions, so you can incorporate some of these words into your Meta titles and descriptions. If you want to go deeper into SEO and explore other tags that are used in the HTML code of the pages, keep reading!: - **Viewport Tags** The viewport is the area of the window in which the content of the web is shown. Now in cases when the page is seen on a mobile device, the size of the viewport differs and can influence the content. If a page is not mobile optimized, the pages might be rendered with a viewport different than the one suitable for them and shrink down to fit properly. This can cause a page to break or look quite bad when seen on a mobile device. So in short, these viewport tags impact the way your page is presented on a mobile device. - **Canonical Tags** Canonical tags are used to specify the primary or principle version of the specific page. Using these tags in your code is a way of telling a search engine which URL represents the master copy of a page. The problems that this solves are those caused by identical content appearing on several URLs. If there is duplicate content on several URLs, this can cause many problems when it comes to SEO. Some of the problems that can happen when there is too much duplicate content are: -  The crawlers that go through too much duplicate content can easily miss the original content - Search engines can choose the wrong URL to rank - A lot of duplicate content may lower your ranking This can be extremely helpful with displaying the proper content and high ranking on search engines. - **Hreflang Tags** Another type of important tags is hreflang tags. These are attributes that let  Google know which language is the specific page in, so the engine can present that result to users that are searching in that particular language. These tags were introduced back in 2011 by Google, and they let the  search engine know about the type of relationship your pages have in alternate languages. With the use of these tags, you can create content for a specific audience, and you can have your pages translated into different languages. - **Open Graph Tags** Open Graph tags are extremely important when it comes to wanting to have content that is more clickable, shareable and looking overall nicer when it’s shared. These tags are basically code that controls how URLs are displayed when they are shared on social media platforms. And that is quite important! People are far more likely to click something or notice when the content has optimized open graph tags. This can mean more traffic to the website, or more clicks on the shop button. Optimized OG tags make the content more eye-catching, they make the content clear at glance, and they help the platform to understand what the content is about. Even if these tags are out of your expertise, it is good to know that they exist and that they can play a big role in your ranking. You can choose to hire somebody who knows how to optimize these types of tags, or you can dedicate time to learn how to do it yourself. Either way, they can be quite important in the overall SEO strategy. ## **2.** **Have short URLs** Permanent linking structure (aka Permalinks) basically refers to how the URL reads for a post or page in the browser’s address bar. This is the perfect place to add keywords into the mix and believe it or not, this is something Google’s web crawlers look at to help you rank. Several studies have confirmed that shorter URLs tend to rank higher than lengthy URLs. Here are some items to keep in mind when creating your web page URLs 1. Keep them clean and short 2. Incorporate keywords 3. Only use hyphens “-“to separate words 4. Customize your URLs based on what the content is 5.  Follow a standard URL structure with categories and subcategories 6. Remove Stop words 7.  Use canonical tags where needed Another good thing to know is that there are URL shortening services out there that can be used to shorten a specific long URL. These are a good option when you just can’t find a way to shorten your URL naturally but it looks quite unattractive as it is. You can use these when you want to share your content but there are a number of characters allowed like for example on Twitter. These types of character limits are bad for sharing long URLs because it won’t be a lot of space afterward for the text you want to display. Another usage of the URL shortener is when you’re sending a long URL in instant messaging or e-mail and you want to avoid broken links etc. An example of a shortened URL is [http://goo.gl/l6MS](http://goo.gl/l6MS) that comes from [http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2009/12/making-urls-shorter-for-google-toolbar.html](http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2009/12/making-urls-shorter-for-google-toolbar.html). You can see how the first URL looks much better and concise than the second one. Once the URLs are short, Google and other search engines can find, read and understand them much easier. Having long and too complex URLs can make your page look unorganized and it can make it hard for Google crawlers to visit each page which in the end can bring worse search rankings. And we don’t want those. Examples of good URL structures: -  https://website.com/clarksville-dentist - https://www.website.com/ NOT https://website.com/  You get the idea…. Which  is to incorporate keyword-rich “telling” terms of what the website encompasses and is about. Usually, 3-4 words max should do the trick. To change your permalink on WordPress go to Settings > Permalinks. ## **3.** **Use HTML Headers Properly** A headers is basically the title or lead-in of an article or content. I am referring to the HTML code: H1, H2, etc. that leads off paragraphs in content. Google sees these as important. So should you. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kN9A9dg6K8fpd-VcDLK9C-forHMh6GctAlA4Dc11ntAPkWnZUJeo9q00cRpMUpUgCgK7qNlx_-2QZxWay2Ya1vvR_4ht2LLYVLC_qfgxJm-SvvTRmFK1wtNXHQjVUTbKDEslYYqQ) ### H1 tags Starting with H1’s, their rules are simple. These stress, like the other headers, the main “subject of the page” and Google takes action appropriately. You should only use one H1 tag per page as this is the main header and will confuse search engines when more is used and devalue your rankings. Moreover, you should come up with a unique H1 header. Also, you should use your main keyword of the landing page in the h1 header. Keep in mind not to make the h1 title too long, or not longer than one line. ### H2 tags H2’s should be similar to H1’s. A good place for keywords, but a good practice is to base this on sub-subjects for the page. For instance, if your page is about a dentist then a good H2 tag could be about one of the services the Dentist provides (i.e. cavity cleaning) followed by content in regards to the H2 tag. Pro-tip for the WordPress WYSIWYG editor: You can select the words that you want to use an H2 tag on and then press ctrl+alt+2 to make them into H2. H2 tags should inform the reader about the contents of the corresponding paragraph. Or more simply said, readers should know what the upcoming paragraph is about by reading the h2 title. ### H3 Tags Similar to H2’s but should be used for topics that are not as important. These should be used as subtopics inside H2 tags but are not always necessary. By incorporating these tags into your webpages, you are reinforcing what your website is all about. You can also add some keywords here too. A good tip is to use these headings as questions. ### Difference between title and H1 A very often asked question is what’s the difference between a page title and an h1 tag. In HTML terms, both of those serve as titles or to describe what your page is about. The biggest difference between them is the location, or where they appear. The page title appears in the title bar at the top of the browser and the purpose of it is for search engines so it acts as a hyperlink that readers click on to observe your page. The title tags are not actually visible on the webpage. On the other hand, h1 tags are what the readers will see on the actual page. This is what acts as a physical title of the content on your page. H1 tags usually don’t appear in the Google engine results. ### How to write good H-tags When you are coming up with your h1, h2, h3, h4, etc tags you should think about what the content of your page is about and what point do you want to make to your readers. Then, it is a good idea to do keyword research so you can see what types of words people are looking for on the search engines. Once you have the relevant keywords, you know what to focus your content around and you need to include these keywords in the h1 and h2 tags. ## **4.** **Speed Up Your Website using a CDN** The speed of your website is extremely important. The whole user experience might be threatened if your website takes too long to load. If you speed it up, not only the UX will improve, but with that better rankings will come. The site speed is even a bigger ranking factor when it comes to mobile pages. Users will be a lot more likely to spend more time on a website that is loading properly then on a website that takes a long time to load. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/NdIrh3clvzNfWWRt8-q-LF-PirLMQeFXZaVigxBjqBXN6J31D-up2NYSgtI5-DVdFZLDGOoO-58sY6c41y3G-mtlskNYyo8VMPu1Xgst-r4m7Atc9cw-ZrGAE4NCgOEH2XI5hp1v) [](https://www.keycdn.com/support/cdn-architecture) For this reason, Google made the site speed a ranking factor. If you are asking yourself how many seconds does your website need to have until it’s properly loaded, the answer is under two. A few years ago, the answer might have been three to four seconds, but technology is moving fast and we need to stay on top of it. The faster the loading is, the higher the ranking will become. Simple as that. There are several things you can do to help with website speed 1. Upgrade your hosting 2. Compress your images so they serve faster 3. Reduce the number of images on a single page 4.  Minify JavaScript and CSS – There are several great plugins for WordPress users and other CMS’s 5. Use a CDN (content delivery network) to serve websites faster across the globe ### What is a CDN? If you are wondering what CDN or content delivery network is, let me explain. It basically is a network of servers that is shortening the information path between the server and the user. CDN has servers in multiple locations which are not the case with simple software. When a user wants to load a certain webpage, the information is being shown from the closest server. In this way, a CDN lessens the time users need to access the webpage. ## **5.** **Link To Other Articles (Internal and External Linking)** ![](/images/posts/inline/857666ed-internal-link-building.png) By connecting pages on a website using keywords as the anchor text, you are in essence creating backlinks internally to your site’s pages. This helps users and search engines alike, by connecting the topics of your web pages together. By using keywords to connect pages, you are telling Google what the page the link goes to is all about. This also sends link juice to that page increasing the page’s authority. It is almost like a page is vouching for another page and giving its recommendation of the content found there. A couple of things to keep in mind. You want to push these internal links to the pages you want to rank for.  If you don’t want to rank your “Contact Us” page, then don’t force a ton of internal links there. Instead, push links at those pages you want to rank for such as the home page or an important promotions page. You should also include outbound links to authoritative websites such as Wikipedia. ## **6.** **Optimize Your Images** Image optimization refers to using images in order to advance rankings. Yes, there is even a separate search engine that is strictly for images, however, there are some items we can address with images that will help with Google’s standard search engine as well. Again, your image should be nice and compressed to increase page speed, but more so than that you should always name your image file using keywords for your site. Forget naming your images 268767sdfsd.jpg or image1.png. This tells Google nothing about the image. Instead, try for something keyword rich. For example, if you have a Dentist’s website then perhaps an image file with the name Chicago-dentist.jpg will serve you better. ![](/images/posts/inline/478f6422-alt-text-20x8.png) On top of this, it is always a good idea to incorporate keywords into the alt tag of an image. The alt tag was designed to give the visually impaired an idea of what pictures are all about. If Google thinks you are trying to make a page that is accessible for all then they are more likely to up rank your website. Keywords are important here as you can imagine. Pay attention to the size of the images as well. As I mentioned earlier, visitors would wait two seconds only for an image to load. This means that you can’t add huge images that take too much to load. That is why you need to decrease the size of the image and that increases the page loading speed. This reduction can happen in Adobe Photoshop by using the “save for web” command. There are also other tools that can be used such as Canva, PIXLR or other image editing platforms. Also, a good idea is to pay attention to your decorative images. Decorative images are all background images, borders, and buttons. Those can also result in a large combined file size that makes the page load slowly. Even though decorative images are very important for aesthetics, they shouldn’t be more important than the page speed.  Relevant: [You would also like to check my guide on reverse image search on Facebook, Pinterest, and Google here.](https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-image-search-on-google-facebook-pinterest/)  ## **7.** **Use Google Search Console** ![](/images/posts/inline/5495e89e-google-search-console.png) I could go on for days about Google’s Search Console. This powerful tool is a must for all website owners, especially those wearing those white SEO hats. Google Search Console is a free service provided by Google that gives you access to many tools that can be used in optimizing your page for the Google search. This is the place you can go to tell Google exactly how you want the search results to appear for your website, which version of the website to use, Google even tells you how people found your site using what keywords and above all else if there is an issue with your site that needs immediate attention. This, in fact, is the only place that will tell you if your site has been compromised by hackers or if you have any penalties affecting your site. Google will not send you an email to let you know. You must go here. Search Console also allows you to submit sitemaps to tell Google what and where your pages are located. Anything that helps Google understand your site better will ultimately lead to better rankings. ## **8.** **Submit a Sitemap to Google** ![](/images/posts/inline/a38ee684-google-site-map.png) We mentioned this above, but why is a sitemap important? A sitemap, submitted to Google’s Search Console is a powerful thing. It helps Google to index your site and tells them exactly where the site is, so you don’t have to wait until Google finds you (which may be months or never). It also gives them a roadmap to every page and the ability to upgrade or downgrade a page’s importance. There really is no downside to having a sitemap and they are extremely important on sites that create dynamic pages, if you have few external links pointing to your site such as a new site and if you have a huge site with many pages. A quick and easy way to submit a sitemap to google is to install the Yoast SEO WordPress Plugin and follow their [XML sitemap instructions](https://yoast.com/help/xml-sitemaps-in-the-wordpress-seo-plugin/). ## **9.** **Create Long-Form Content** Google loves content and so do its users. If you are looking to rank #1 on Google, then you should consider creating blog posts that cover topics in depth. Word count does have an effect on the SERPs, with blog posts over 1900 words ranking among the top results. Writing lengthy blog posts allow you to increase the time that a visitor spends on your site, reduce the bounce rate and also [include various keyword variations](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) naturally. All of this will contribute to a healthy white hat SEO profile. ### Add LSI keywords ![](/images/posts/inline/76b0d5db-lsi-keywords.png) LSI keywords are essentially synonyms for the keywords you are looking to rank for. For instance, when you are writing a post about “home improvements”, you can include words such as “home DIY projects” or “fix your home”. This will also help you rank for long-tail keywords. ## 10\. Add Engaging Videos ![](/images/posts/inline/eed9e0fb-videos-in-blog-posts.png) Video is king these days. 55% of all keyword searches now include a Youtube video on the first page. By adding videos and other rich media to your blog posts, you will increase the time someone spends on your site, which will, in turn, give you higher rankings. Plus, videos are also a great way to explain a topic. What’s more, videos are becoming more and more relevant. The reason why people are more focused on videos is that they provide a bulk of information in a short amount of time. It’s much more tiring to read 10 pages of text then it is to listen to 2-3 minutes of video. Another great reason why videos are awesome is that you can tell a story better with a video than with plain text. Everything is important, the demeanor, the way you’re telling something, the body language, etc. All of those can impact users to trust you more. Even if you’re not the one owning the video, choosing engaging videos that people can learn more from can only be a plus for you. Videos also improve user experience. And what’s even better they can be watched on mobile phones and that can be quite easier to do than read lots of text. ## 11\. Get high-quality backlinks Backlinks are links from other sites to yours. You can get backlinks 2 ways: 1. By creating awesome content that people naturally want to link to 2. By creating awesome (or average) content and promoting it to a lot of bloggers and asking for a link Either way, you should make sure that the sites that are linking to you are high-quality (not spammy, have great content, etc). ![](/images/posts/inline/40df0f9e-future-sharks.png) Another great way to get backlinks is to go on Podcasts or get interviewed on [Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com/). ### Backlinks Strategies If you are looking to start implementing backlinking but you have no idea where to start from, I have some suggestion for you: 1. **Reciprocal Linking**– a mild reciprocal linking on a relevant topic can be helpful. Find another page with similar content as you and collaborate. Note that too much reciprocity is not good for ranking. 2. **Guest Posting**– is always a good idea as long as you make it natural and not anchor lots of links to your site. Use brand keywords and navigational phrases. 3. **Web Directory Links**– The best directories are those that offer useful information for your website visitors. The important thing to have is relevancy which is why directories that lead to information relevant to what your content is can help out. 4.  **Forum and Blog Commenting**– find active discussions on forums or blogs that are on a relevant topic to what your business is and include yourself in the discussion. Don’t overdo it, and don’t make it too obvious. ## 12\. Encourage Social Shares and Comments Google takes into account your article’s social signals (likes, shares, comments) as a factor of engagement. If Google sees that people are sharing and commenting on an article, they will reward that post with higher rankings. A very easy way to get more comments and shares is to literally tell your readers to “share the post if they found it valuable”. You can also partner up with Influencers and Thought Leaders and have them promote your article to their followers. Also, this goes without saying, but make content that people will find valuable and would want to share! Try to do your best when writing and try to include all the aspects of the subject. This can guarantee you more shares than if you just write something with mediocre effort. Another thing to focus on, the social media buttons. Make sure you put them somewhere where it’s visible to make it easy for the readers to share your content. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ECpHW_wEL_y0D8nYkgVdtevpwqM3iIQ5AJX860cxVdzHFRtWxgAxSxNj5AjAc8uIAAae2pqpGew85JtAcZfpJDvxlJDdVwuAhdGx-xsJCKQPG0Fhv57QsoPhFouym1x0BRjOZvr5) Make your content stimulating and visually good. Try to engage with your readers asking questions or asking them to leave suggestions in the comments. Users want to be asked for their opinion. ## 13\. Provide a great user experience As I previously mentioned, the user experience is very important. It is what makes your users comfortable to be on your webpage and be loyal to it in the future. I mentioned that page speed is one of the crucial things that makes or breaks the user experience, but there are other things as well. There are many strategies, practices, and advice out there on how to create a great user experience. The difference between the pros and those who just think they are [trying in the infamous A/B testing.](https://flux.la/how-to-ab-test/) You have to experiment with the design and take notes of what works and what doesn’t with your particular users. That is the only way you will get it right eventually. ## 14\. Focus on Mobile First experience ![](/images/posts/inline/ba344935-user-friendly-website.jpg) I can’t stress enough how important it is to update your page and all the processes to display quality on mobile devices.  In the early days of the platform, Google realized how important mobile searches are and with that they announced pages that are not mobile-friendly would not rank as high as those who are.  After that, new guidelines were in place. Nowadays, all pages that are created with no consideration of mobile users, will suffer the consequences overall not only from mobile users themselves.  Also, if your website had intrusive interstitial ads, it will rank even lower. To check how mobile friendly you page is, log in your Search Console account and read the Mobile Usability Report.  There you will find all the issues that Google reports and you can act in accordance to them.  ## 15\. Local Business Listing (Google My Business) Don’t be hesitant to claim your local business listing since this is one more way in which Google’s algorithms match user intent.  If you have a physical place of business, GMB is a must! ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q66FSkNEOCptk89hEsyCWMSC7ippIm8JwayR_c0mLAuDjaytUBqXQnaYPKRK_hqyTsnLPNzghYOcCPWy2185s8U3H69J49STvKkfSlQw5fq8V5MeDY3GkEJriOYEmBK7Pmz6BTZy) Users won’t be satisfied if they search for a business and Google gives them something that is tens of miles away. They want something that is near.  That is where GMB comes. Prioritizing local searchers can be a very big opportunity for your business.  Also, the process of acquiring the GMB is fairly easy and simple. All you need to do is apply for it and follow the confirmation steps.  Once you do have it, don’t fail to use it the best you can. Update the info constantly, and engage with your users as much as you can.  ## 16\. Rankz  Sometimes it can become hard to pay attention to all of these separate strategies and efforts.  That is why, here are tools that can make all of this easier for you. [Rankz](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/rankz/) is one of them.  It is basically a SEO tool that allows for enterprises to plan, create and collaborate to achieve amazing campaigns and content.![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/zxw0TdbLv7eEoKXjk4goAWzaFz3Xe0dTbbRmewlokJ_tCtzOHZAYjbHLrf9RHTnO8ZXL817aPhvFPoyGOqDGsJQXFfJUDsQr0Kq_UwQ6YS4HV1RUY2iZ9UVWrUQ_KCs4IS68Gl8m) By using [Rankz](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/rankz/), you can distribute your content on high quality blogs and reap the SEO benefits of that.  It is a tool that will make you step up your marketing game.  ## 17\. Quuu Promote Another awesome tool that can come in handy.  [Quuu Promote](https://quuu.co/promote) is a content promotion tool that uses actual people to share and distribute your content through the main social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter and [Linkedin](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_b_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbGVqYW5kcm9yaW9qYS5jb20vYmxvZy9iZXN0LWFydGljbGVzLw&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACK0wDWg5lYnFDrT3qrB5fWViiO1tzVydzEmOGbfv2lbPBRap5T-t_-gKvMBG8X12hEgBkhvxUiOv28WHi-5XC-gWFP8KqxOtVLlmWOUjMSr1qE-dtGPJWgXKinJo8RzVIk-NQ1v0N8IP0DPhxZ5mqhzi7JOK-yJXmzyXZ67d9-R).  By using this tool you can get tons of mentions and engagement with your relevant audience.  This can also drive quite a lot of traffic to your website, and once users see your content they might like it and keep on sharing it.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kSh5VElC4XLUgyKmzdd8Jgo1zAtVAcK8HBQg5JFfupwit3Rft2-pDmk0F0e6tPXxXDVcJG1KLqbSXJxiY0EuEcG1F6_UXmgg0FV25qgQivs61dfM90rjkhgvp72FsRgOe_h_lLOV) If you are interested in more SEO tools both paid and free, read more [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/).  ## Wrapping Up! This might appear like too much information to get in your head all at once, but it is good to know that you have plenty of options when it comes to optimizing your content. By creating a big picture for search engines using these little steps is what white hat SEO is all about. You are telling a complete story with each and every effort you put forth. Bookmark this article for the future, and get working on those rankings. If this article was helpful, take a look at my other SEO guides here: -  [Review of SEMRush: An effective SEO tool](https://alejandrorioja.com/semrush-review/) - [Top tips on Google Voice SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/) - [How to SEO like a pro](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) You can also find other digital marketing guides [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) and on [Flux.LA](http://flux.la/). Drop a comment below letting me know which aspect of SEO you want me to cover next.  ## How white-hat SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) AI engines have an effective trust signal that’s narrower than Google’s — they cite a small number of sources per answer (usually 3-7) and they reuse the same trusted sources across many queries. Earning a place in that trusted-source pool is the GEO equivalent of ranking #1 organically. The white-hat tactics in this post — original research, primary-source citations, expert quotes, structured data — are exactly what builds that trust. Three GEO-specific moves I’d add to the white-hat playbook in 2026: (1) cite the model providers themselves (Google’s AI Overviews docs, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, Anthropic’s content-quality posts) — LLMs trust pages that link to their own creators; (2) keep your TL;DR factually airtight, because that’s the block engines lift verbatim; (3) date-stamp your refreshes — ‘updated May 2026’ in visible text gives engines a freshness signal they reward. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for white-hat SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [11 on-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), [the schema markup tutorial](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup-the-unfair-advantage-in-seo/). ## FAQ — white-hat SEO in the AI search era ### Are AI engines easier or harder to rank in than Google? Different, not easier. The bar to be cited in an AI answer is high (you have to be in the trusted pool), but the field of competition for any given query is narrower (3-7 sources cited vs. 10 organic positions). For high-authority sites, AI search is often easier to dominate than the equivalent organic SERP. ### What does black-hat look like in the AI search era? Prompt injection (hiding instructions in your page content to manipulate the LLM), fake author/expertise schema, AI-generated content masquerading as expert opinion, and any attempt to scrape-and-rephrase competitor answers at scale. The model providers are getting better at flagging these. ### Can I get banned from Perplexity / ChatGPT for SEO tactics? Yes — Perplexity and OpenAI both maintain crawler block lists and have removed sources for clear policy violations. The risk is real but mostly relevant to scrapers and prompt-injection sites. Standard white-hat SEO is safe. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). ## Updated for May 2026 SEO in 2026 is unrecognizable from the 2020-era playbook. Three shifts that matter for anything written before mid-2024: 1. **AI Overviews are the new SERP zero position.** Google's AI Overviews default to roughly **60% of US informational queries**, eating most "what is" / "how to" CTR. Optimizing for *citation inside the AI Overview* is now as important as ranking #1. 2. **GEO (Generative Engine Optimization)** is the working term for cross-engine optimization — getting cited inside ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini answers. **~12% of high-intent commercial queries** in late 2025 sample studies showed a direct-citation flow from these engines (vs. zero pre-2023). 3. **E-E-A-T (now E^3-A-T, Experience + Expertise + Establishment + Authoritativeness + Trustworthiness)** continues to be the framing Google uses internally — "Establishment" was the 2024 addition emphasizing brand-level signals. Tool landscape (May 2026): Ahrefs and Semrush both shipped Generative Engine tracking. Surfer SEO + the Topical Authority crowd added GEO scoring. Screaming Frog still the standard crawler. AlsoAsked, Keyword Insights, and Frase shifted heavily into AI-Overview snippet engineering. If this post predates May 2024, treat its core advice as the *Google-search baseline* and layer the GEO playbook on top. --- ## How to Get More Views on Youtube Youtube SEO tricks for 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/ Published: 2026-05-03 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: YouTube SEO is still about YouTube’s algorithm — title, thumbnail, description, watch time, retention. What’s new in 2026 is that AI engines now cite YouTube videos directly in answers, so YouTube SEO is now part of GEO. ## Table of contents Updated for AI Search (May 2026) **TL;DR:** YouTube SEO is still about YouTube’s algorithm — title, thumbnail, description, watch time, retention. What’s new in 2026 is that AI engines now cite YouTube videos directly in answers, so YouTube SEO is now part of GEO. The post below covers YouTube’s internal mechanics; the GEO section covers how to make videos that AI engines cite externally. *What’s new in this refresh: a section on how this strategy plays in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude), a 4-block GEO scaffold, and a fresh FAQ.* If you have been reading [my blog](https://alejandrorioja.com) for quite some time, you will know that I’m all about hacking [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). (And now that I’m a [rapper](http://youngslacker.com), I have a huge incentive to learn how to make [my raps](https://instagram.com/youngslacker/) stand out) I have successfully ranked many of my blog posts for competitive keywords following this [step-by-step SEO blueprint](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Today, I will show you how to do the same for **YouTube SEO**. In this YouTube guide, I will walk you through examples of optimized videos using various famous YouTubers and their channels. I will also share with you 2 excellent Chrome plugins that you should install to get more views on YouTube (plus a lot of other useful info). Best part of all this is that [Google’s Rankbrain algorithm loves video](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). Ready to go viral on YouTube? ## Step 1: Find the right keywords I spoke about how to do great [keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) before, but now I will dive into how to find the right keywords to target on YouTube. For this, I present 3 different strategies: 1. Coming up with keywords on your own 2. Using YouTube Analytics   3. Stealing keywords from your competitor ### Coming up with keywords on your own This one is the simplest ways to come up with keywords to target for your YouTube video. The technique is the same as [coming up with keywords to target on your blog posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). Simply list down all the keywords that your video (and channel) is about. For instance, if you have a fitness YouTube channel and have just produced a video on “ab exercises”, you can create a list of keywords that looks like this: 1. Ab workout 2. Best ab exercises 3. How to do ab exercises 4. Simple ab routine 5. etc If you type any of these keywords on the YouTube search bar, you will also see other suggestions. ![Youtube autocomplete](/images/posts/inline/17294f7a-youtube-autocomplete.png) #### **Why are these keywords good?** Because these are keywords that **are** being searched by real YouTube users. You can now add the following keywords to your video, such as: - Ab workout for men (or women) - Ab workout at home - Ab workout for beginner Your can rinse and repeat until you find the keywords that makes the most sense for your content. ### Using YouTube Analytics If you go to your [analytics report on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/analytics) and then click on **Traffic Sources > YouTube Search**, you will see different keywords that are driving views to your video. ![youtube traffic sources](/images/posts/inline/4dfcce88-youtube-traffic-sources.png) In most cases, the keywords that you are presented with will be ones you already found through other means (such as intuition). However, sometimes you might find some hidden gems (like “linkedin tricks” for me). For instance, I recently published the presentation I did for Parent Heart Watch on how to go viral on social media. This video covers a great amount on going viral on different platforms. ?By the way here are the specific guides on virality: [Facebook](https://futuresharks.com/go-viral-facebook-goubtube/), [Instagram](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/), [Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) and [Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9). But I never thought of making a standalone video about Linkedin virality, so after checking my YouTube analytics report, I am adding it to my content schedule. When you find keywords that are driving traffic to your already existing videos, check them against any of these [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) and if they look good, re-optimize your video around them. ### Stealing keywords from your competitors (aka. favorite YouTube channels) The best YouTubers are probably spending [50% of their time creating content and the other 50% promoting it](https://futuresharks.com/muaaz-shakeel/) (and optimizing it). This means that they have their keyword targeting down to a T. Which also means that you don’t have to spend time thinking about which keywords you should target. Simply look at the most popular videos related to yours and use their keywords. **How can you do this the [Alejandro-way](https://alejandrorioja.com/about)?** By installing the [vidIQ Vision](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/vidiq-vision-for-youtube/pachckjkecffpdphbpmfolblodfkgbhl?hl=en) Chrome plugin (also on Firefox). After creating a free account and signing up, jump to any popular video and see stats about it (such as amount of subscribers gained from the video, video tags and more). What you are looking for is the **video tags list**.   For instance this video on “how to get a six pack” ![Youtube title description](/images/posts/inline/a3312736-youtube-title-description.png) Has chosen these tags ![video tags for youtube](/images/posts/inline/9f6207ee-video-tags-for-youtube.png) Most of the tags will be ideal keywords like “how to get a six pack”, so you can add those to your list. You can add **up to 400 characters on your Youtube video tags**, so make use of all that space! ### Once you have a list, it’s time to pick some keywords If you followed the last 3 steps you probably have a very extensive and proven list of keywords to target. To pick the right YouTube keywords, you should look at volume and difficulty. You can get this data for any keyword by using any of [these tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) or by installing the [Keywords Everywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/) extension (for Chrome and Firefox). With the Keywords Everywhere you will see data once you start typing a keyword on the search bar: ![youtube search volume](/images/posts/inline/f1974d0c-youtube-search-volume.png) I like to pick keywords that have volume over 1000/mo and a difficulty of <0.2. Additionally, competition can be measured by the amount of videos ranking for a specific keyword. For instance “how to get a six pack” has 6M videos, while “how to get a six pack at home” has ‘only’ 1M videos. Try picking easier keywords if you are just getting started. Easier keywords will more likely be long-tail keywords (i.e. 3-6 word searches). ## Step 2: Optimize Your Video ### Include your keyword in the title and description Similar to [website SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), using your keyword in your title and video description will help it rank better for your intended keywords. Try putting your keywords in the title at the beginning of it. So write: “Ab Workout at home ” rather than “A beginner’s tutorial to ab workouts at home” YouTube gives a slight boost to words that come earlier in the title. For the description, include your keyword a handful of times and try to make your description long so that your keyword doesn’t feel “stuffed” in. Here’s how Athlean-X does it, for example: ![youtube seo description](/images/posts/inline/d89454d2-youtube-seo-description.png) Notice that he also uses several variations of his target keyword such as “training your abs”, “ab exercises” etc. These are called LSI keywords (latent-semantic index), a fancy acronym for ‘closely related words’. **Pro tip:** Although YouTube descriptions can be up to 5000 characters, I suggest you use about 200-300 words to describe your video. You can also add links to products or sites you mention in the video and get some extra web traffic that way. **Pro tip #2:** You can also include jump to sections in your description so you make sure people get the most out of your video. (i.e. Oblique exercises at ) ### Mention your keyword in your video Now that YouTube audio transcriptions are highly accurate, it helps a ton for your YT SEO to explicitly state your keyword (ideally at the beginning). For instance if you are creating a video about “stir-fried noodles”, you can say something like “today, I’ll show you how to make the best stir-fried noodles with tofu”. That will help YouTube further classify your video. ### Use tags like a ninja Just like how people use a ton of [hashtags at the end of their Instagram posts to get more exposure](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/), you should also use as many relevant tags as possible in your video. Here are 2 ways to generate YouTube tags easily: 1. Use [RapidTags](https://rapidtags.io/) 2. Install the [VidIQ extension](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/vidiq-vision-for-youtube/pachckjkecffpdphbpmfolblodfkgbhl?hl=en) and analyze a competing video to see which tags they are using. Make sure that the first tag you use is your exact-match keyword i.e. “ab workout” The best secret about tags? They will help you rank as a related video for anyone that is using similar tags. For example, all these videos are related to the “rap” tag. ![generate youtube tags for seo](/images/posts/inline/41d81040-autoplay-youtube-seo.png) (Yes, [I love rap](http://youngslacker.com).) ## Step 3: Hack the YouTube Algorithm There are several pieces to the YouTube SEO algorithm such as: amount of minutes watched, audience retention (how many people watch your video in its entirety) and number of comments, likes, dislikes. In this section, I will show you how to optimize each and every YouTube ranking factor. ### Boost Your Audience Retention The % of people that watch your entire video is known as Audience Retention. Your goal should be to have that number as close to 100% as possible. #### **How can you increase your Youtube video completion rate and watch time?** By doing these things: - Editing your video and removing unnecessary breaks or content that doesn’t add to your video. For instance, doing too much talking during the intro. - Creating an *Open Loop*    (read below) - Making it fun or exciting **Why does audience retention matter?** First, because it’s a good metric that helps YouTube figure out whether your content is engaging or not. Second, because the more engaged your audience the better and higher number of ads that can be served to them. YouTube is happy when it can show more ads and will reward you for this. #### Use the Zeigarnik Effect to boost your retention rate (Open Loops) The [Zeigarnik Effect](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeigarnik_effect) discovered by the psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik essentially states that we are better equipped to remember uncompleted tasks than ones that have been completed. It was an observation done after noticing that waiters could remember open table orders for long periods of time but once the tab was closed and paid, the waiters could not recall details on the order. This can be translated to YouTube quite simply. By using what’s called an **“Open Loop”**. Open Loops are just promises or hooks you introduce at the start of the video (which you close at a later point on the video) For instance, “today I will share with you how to 3x your views on Youtube” Then you open the loop. This gets people hooked and wanting to see more. Then you deliver on your promise. **Pro tip:** the best YouTubers (and bloggers) will open a new loop before closing the first one, to keep you hooked for the next one until the end of the video. This leads me to my next point…  (see what I did there? 😉 ) ### Dominate YouTube SEO by getting more comments The amount of comments (and replies by you) has been shown to have a direct correlation to higher rankings. Encourage viewers to drop a comment by asking something like “which video should I do next?” or like Evan Carmichael does it: “leave a comment with your favorite quote, writing it down will help you remember it better”. ### Ask to subscribe after video When someone subscribes to your channel after watching your video, it usually is because you provided something of value to them (whether informational or entertaining). The best way to get more YouTube subscribers is to **ask them to subscribe at the end of your video**. Another great way to increase your YouTube subscribers is to post regularly no matter what. People love consistent content. The most famous bloggers like Casey Neistat or Logan Paul will post vlogs daily even if their content is not 100% perfect. ### Boost Social Shares Increasing the amount of shares your video gets is also important. You can try posting your video link to [r/videos on Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/videos/) to get some new followers. You can also contact other YouTube channels and see if they would be willing to upload your video to their channel, opening a new audience for you. (Find other hacks later in this post) ## Bonus: Get your YouTube video ranking on Google Search Most of the views on a YouTube video come straight from the YouTube platform. However, if you are able to [get your video on the first page of Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/), you will automatically unlock many more potential views (sometimes in the 100,000s). ![](/images/posts/inline/995bd98c-youtube-video-ranking-on-google.png) (side note: I love Yoga with Adriene) The secret to get your YouTube video on Google is the following: 1. Create a video that’s in any of these categories   - Tutorials (“How to get a raise”, “Installing Linux”). **Pro tip:** Use the words “how to”. - Reviews (“Unboxing the iPhone X”, “Herbalife review”) - Fitness or Sports (“yoga for beginners”, “full body crossfit workout”) - Cute or Funny videos (“soccer bloopers”, “cute cats”) - Anything that can be best explained in a video (“coachella after movie”, “nightlife in Berlin”) 2. Check that the keyword you are targeting does show video results on Google. For instance, in the previous examples, “yoga for beginners” does show videos, while “nightlife in berlin” doesn’t. If you see that a keyword search brings up video results, optimize your video for the best keyword you can find. ### An additional secret for a juicier Youtube SEO Not many people seem to mention this but I figure I should. Just like [how backlinks are super important when it comes to ranking blog posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/), backlinks can also help boost your video rank. Think about it. If you get a backlink to your YouTube video, it is because someone found it useful and took the time to embed it on their site. That’s a strong signal that your video is engaging. How do you get backlinks and embeds of your video? Just the exact same way you would get backlinks to an article of yours, reaching out to bloggers. Here’s [how to do it effectively](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/). ## 2 Additional Tips to Get More YouTube Views ### Create a catchy thumbnail and title Ranking for a keyword is not the end of the battle. After you are ranking high, you also need people to click on your video. Aim for either funny or curiosity-provoking pictures. Action shots are great too. Sex sells here too. (that’s why you see so many “pick-up artists” go viral by having girls on their videos). For the title, make it exciting and/or benefit-driven (i.e. “How to make $500 with Shopify ”) Here are the exact guidelines to make a [perfect Youtube thumbnail](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-thumbnail-guidelines/). ### Have a closing call to action At the end of your video, remember to tell people to subscribe and even share your video. A nice phrase that I like to use is *“If you found this to be valuable, share it with a (marketing) friend”* You can tweak this for fitness for instance *“share it with a mate that skips leg day”* or tweak it for couples “*share it with your boyfriend/girlfriend”* Here are a list of CTAs (call to actions) you can use at the end of your YouTube video: 1. Like, comment, subscribe 2. Visit my website for more info 3. Watch the next video 4. Support my kickstarter 5. Buy my product (i.e. buy the [Flux Charger](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/)) Try to include only 1 or 2 call to actions, as too many options will prevent your reader from taking action.   ## Step 4: How to promote your Youtube Video Here are some strategies to help you promote your video (and maybe even make it go viral): ### First, make content that is good If you are putting bad content out there, people won’t be inclined to continue viewing which will negatively affect your rankings (as minutes viewed and % completed affect the reach of your video). Instead, I suggest you focus on creating the best content that you can for your channel. Whether it is tips that are scientifically backed, or the use of better camera equipment or just by having a charming personality, you need to keep people engaged with your content. If people like what they see, rest assured that they will tell their friends. Remember how [Gangnam Style](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bZkp7q19f0) became the first video to hit 1B views? It was mainly due to the funny dances the singer Psy did. Here’s how we did our first rap video. (I’m [Young Slacker](http://youngslacker.com)) ### Second, promote it on your social media channels Sure, you already know to post your link on Linkedin, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. But what about other sites such as Quora or Reddit? Quora provides questions and answers for pretty much any topic, so if you link your useful video and provide a thorough response to someone’s question, chances are they will watch it and upvote your answer. People that are asking questions on Quora are eager for answers so point them in the right direction and provide additional information through your video. Reddit is also a great place for videos that are funny like bloopers, mashups, Donald Trump or anything like that. Here are some good subReddits to start if you are new to YouTube: [SmallYTChannel](https://www.reddit.com/r/SmallYTChannel/) and [NewTubers](https://www.reddit.com/r/NewTubers/). You can also search reddit for your keyword and post in the respective subreddit. “Ab workout” might lead you to [r/Fitness](https://www.reddit.com/r/Fitness/) for instance. ### Third, repurpose that video for Facebook and Instagram Facebook has a much better viral reach that YouTube, so it is more likely that you become famous on Facebook first rather than YouTube. I suggest that you also post the video on your alternative social platforms to gain fans that you can later promote your native YouTube video to. For instance, once you have a decent following on Facebook (built by posting great videos), you can post a status update like: “Hey guys, just posted a new video on my YouTube channel, check it out youtube.com/example”. ### Fourth, embed your videos on your own site If your website is already enjoying some good traffic, this can help you land a few hundred extra views per month. You can use a plugin like [YouTube Embed Plus](https://wordpress.org/plugins/youtube-embed-plus/) to easily add video content to your site. ### Last but not least, take care of your channel page Your channel can be a great sales page where you invite people to learn more about you and eventually subscribe. #### Channel art You can create beautiful YouTube art using [Canva templates](https://www.canva.com/templates/web-banners/youtube-channel-art/). Here’s what Adidas Football looks like: ![](/images/posts/inline/08e67702-adidas-football-channel-art-youtube-seo.png) #### About description The about section of your channel is another great place to use various keywords that describe your channel. For a cooking channel, I would use: “cooking”, “healthy”, “recipes”, “chef”, and so on. #### Channel trailer Another great way to get more fans is my having an engaging channel trailer where you describe what you do and the type of videos you post. #### Create playlists When someone new lands in your channel page, they might be lost and not know how to navigate your content. Help them by making a playlist and grouping videos by themes. A benefit of making playlists is that they will autoplay the next video, helping you reach more views. ![](/images/posts/inline/adc17802-youtube-playlist-1024x361.png) ## Bottom line In this post I covered all I know about optimizing videos for YouTube and getting as many views as possible. I hope you enjoyed it. If you did, it would be awesome if you could send this blog post to a friend or [tweet it](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=CRUSH+Youtube+SEO+and+Get+3347%25+More+Views+%5B!%5D&url=https%3A%2F%2Falejandrorioja.com%2Fblog%2Fyoutube-seo%2F&via=riojaalejandro). You can also post a link to your YouTube channel in the comments so that other readers can check it out. If you are more visual, this [infographic](https://seo-hacker.com/youtube-seo/) by SEO Hacker that summarizes my post quite well: ![Youtube-SEO-guide-infographic](/images/posts/inline/ab7cc92a-youtube-seo-guide-infographic-scaled.jpg) If you have any questions or require an audit of your social media content, lets connect on a consultation session! - [ Sale Product on sale ![30 Min Consultation](/images/posts/inline/10aa3a67-30-min-seo-consultation.png) 30 Min Consultation ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. Rated **4.73** out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/17414?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent&add-to-cart=23495) ## How YouTube SEO works in AI search engines (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, Claude) When ChatGPT and Perplexity cite a YouTube video, they pull from the video’s title, description, transcript, and (increasingly) the video itself for visual content. Videos with rich, accurate transcripts and well-structured descriptions get cited dramatically more often than videos relying on the title alone. Practical 2026 moves: provide a written transcript (YouTube’s auto-captions aren’t enough), structure the video description as a TL;DR + timestamped chapters + FAQ-style answers to anticipated questions, link out to authoritative sources in the description. AI engines treat the description as a high-signal text source alongside the transcript. ### The 4-block GEO scaffold for YouTube SEO 1. **Lead with a TL;DR.** 2-4 sentences at the top of the post that answer the head query directly. AI Overviews and Perplexity preferentially cite this block. 2. **Add a numbered step-by-step section.** Generative engines extract clean ordered lists into their answers more reliably than prose. 3. **Close with an FAQ.** Use the literal phrasing of questions people actually ask in your niche; mark up with FAQPage schema. 4. **Cite primary sources.** Link to Google’s own AI Overviews documentation, OpenAI’s structured-data guidance, and Anthropic’s content-quality posts. LLMs trust pages that cite the model providers themselves. ### Internal reading on AI SEO + GEO If you’re building this into your stack, also read: [the full SEO guide for 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), [voice search SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/), [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). ## FAQ — YouTube SEO in the AI search era ### Do AI engines actually cite YouTube videos in 2026? Yes — Perplexity in particular cites video sources for ‘how to’ and ‘what is’ queries. Google AI Overviews include video carousels for relevant queries. ### Should video transcripts be auto-generated or hand-written? Hand-edited at minimum — auto-captions are noisy enough that AI engines extract less reliable signal from them. Even light human editing helps. ### Does YouTube traffic from AI engines convert as well as YouTube-native traffic? Different — AI-engine clicks tend to be deeper-intent (someone reading a summary and clicking the video for the full explanation). Conversion rate varies; total volume is still smaller than YouTube-native discovery. --- ## Where I'd take this next If you operate inside any of the loops above, I build [custom AI agent systems](/services/#agent) that automate them. The whole site you're reading is one — [here's the stack](/agentic/). --- ## Crafting A Successful Outreach Strategy In The World Of Digital Marketing Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/crafting-a-successful-outreach-strategy-in-the-world-of-digital-marketing/ Published: 2024-06-05 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. In the vast and ever-evolving digital marketing landscape, effectively reaching out to your target audience is both an art and a science. A robust outreach strategy is crucial for making your mark and fostering connections that benefit your business long-term. Let’s explore how you can craft a successful outreach strategy to elevate your digital marketing efforts. ## Understanding Outreach in Digital Marketing Outreach in digital marketing involves connecting with potential partners, influencers, and customers to promote your brand, content, or products. This process is essential for building relationships, enhancing brand visibility, and driving engagement. It’s not just about selling; it’s about engaging in meaningful conversations that add value to both parties. ## The Role of a Blogger Outreach Company A blogger outreach company connects businesses with bloggers and influencers who can promote their products or content. These companies act as a bridge, helping you tap into networks and communities that are otherwise hard to reach. By leveraging their expertise and relationships, a [link building outreach service](https://www.stanventures.com/blogger-outreach-services/) provider can significantly amplify your digital marketing efforts, making your outreach strategy more effective and far-reaching. ## Steps to Crafting a Successful Outreach Strategy ### Identify Your Goals Start by defining clear, measurable goals. What do you want to achieve with your outreach efforts? Whether it’s increasing brand awareness, [driving traffic to your website](https://searchengineland.com/organic-search-responsible-for-53-of-all-site-traffic-paid-15-study-322298), or boosting sales, having specific goals will guide your strategy and help you measure success. ### Know Your Audience Understanding who you’re trying to reach is crucial. Develop detailed buyer personas that include demographics, interests, and online behavior. This information will help you tailor your outreach messages and choose the right communication channels. ### Create Compelling Content Content is king in the world of digital marketing. Your outreach efforts should revolve around content that’s informative, engaging, and relevant to your audience. High-quality content attracts attention and encourages shares and discussions, extending your reach organically. ### Choose the Right Channels Not all platforms are suitable for every audience or goal. Research where your target audience spends their time online and focus your efforts on those channels. Whether it’s social media, email, blogs, or forums, selecting the right platforms is key to reaching your audience effectively. ### Build Relationships Outreach is not a one-time task but an ongoing process of building and nurturing relationships. Engage with your audience, influencers, and peers in your industry. Offer value, be genuine, and maintain consistent communication. Strong relationships are the foundation of a successful outreach strategy.  Incorporating a personal touch in your outreach efforts can make a significant difference. Personalized messages that address the recipient’s interests and needs are more likely to capture attention and elicit a positive response. Remember, successful outreach is about creating genuine connections. ### The Power of Influencer Collaboration Collaborating with influencers can significantly boost your outreach strategy. Influencers have the power to sway their followers’ opinions and decisions. By partnering with the right influencers, you can tap into new audiences, enhance your brand’s credibility, and drive engagement. ### Leveraging Technology for Efficient Outreach Technology is pivotal in streamlining outreach efforts and maximizing efficiency in today’s digital age. Utilizing the right tools can automate mundane tasks, such as sending emails or posting on social media, allowing you to focus on strategy and relationship building. CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems can help you keep track of your interactions and progress with each contact.  ### Measure and Adjust Finally, track your results against your goals using analytics tools. Analyze what’s working and what’s not. Be prepared to adjust your strategy based on performance data. Continuous improvement is vital for staying relevant and achieving long-term success in digital marketing. ### Incorporating Feedback for Continuous Improvement An often overlooked yet crucial aspect of a successful outreach strategy is the incorporation of feedback. Listening to the responses from your audience, influencers, and even your own team can provide valuable insights into what’s working and what isn’t. This feedback loop allows you to make iterative improvements to your approach, ensuring that your outreach remains relevant and engaging over time. Encourage open dialogue and take constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth.  ## Bottom line Crafting a successful outreach strategy in digital marketing requires a thoughtful approach that combines understanding your audience, creating compelling content, choosing the right channels, and building lasting relationships. Incorporating the expertise of a blogger outreach company can further amplify your efforts, helping you reach wider and more relevant audiences. By following these steps and continuously refining your strategy, you can achieve remarkable results that propel your business forward in the digital age. Remember, in digital marketing, your ability to connect and engage with your audience is the key to success. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Essential Sales Tools for Optimal Results: Enhance Performance and Productivity Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/essential-sales-tools-for-optimal-results/ Published: 2024-03-13 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Successful modern sales require the correct tools. From Engagio’s B2B precision to Tot’s automation, it redefines efficiency. Their services include sales intelligence, CRM, analytics, gamification, video conferencing, marketing automation, and account-based marketing. Aligning these technologies with company goals is essential. By strategically investing in these tools, teams may dominate sales environments and achieve amazing results. So, make smart choices, keep adapting, and you’ll see efficiency and success in your sales. Success in modern sales, where digital methods rule, requires efficiency. And because of the change in sales, various digital tools designed to streamline processes and enhance results have emerged. If you’re someone who is new in this industry and looking for help to learn more, I will be able to help you. In this article, I will guide you to the top sales tools by categorizing them and exploring their features to help you make informed decisions for your sales strategy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9I5usr\_hRIk ## Understanding the Sales Landscape Understanding modern sales dynamics is essential to comprehend sales tools. Traditional approaches are being replaced by digital solutions that streamline and improve operations.  ### Sales Tools Overview Sales tools are essential to get through the complicated sales process. Each tool is put into a different category and accomplishes a specific task to improve sales processes. Here are the seven of them: 1. **Sales Intelligence:** Sales teams gain prospect behavior insights from sales intelligence tools. Data from these instruments makes sales more personalized and effective. 2. **Customer Relationship Management (CRM):** Effective customer management relies on CRM tools. They coordinate, track, and manage sales contacts with prospects and customers. 3. **Sales Analytics:** Decisions are data-driven with sales analytics tools. Team members can spot trends, optimize plans, and improve performance by reviewing sales data. 4. **Sales Gamification:** With gamification tools, the sales process becomes more like a game, with competition and rewards. By making sales tasks into games, these tools get sales teams excited and motivated. 5. **Video Conferencing:** Through video conferencing, salespeople may engage with prospects and clients across borders. These technologies boost communication and relationships. 6. **Marketing Automation:** Sales teams may focus on high-value work with marketing automation tools. Automation streamlines lead nurturing and customer engagement. 7. **Account-based Marketing:** Marketing tools that target specific accounts use specialized techniques. In precision-driven B2B sales, these tools work well. Some top tools combine these categories, and others solely focus on one. Now that you know their main use let’s see the top-listed sales tools for boosting results and work efficiency. ## Engagio Engagio is tailored for B2B sales. Its features clearly explain each organization’s dynamics and marketing styles. This tool excels in tracking prospect details down to the dot. Its granular insight allows sales teams to tailor their approach based on individual prospect behaviors. Engagio offers valuable solutions for both active and passive marketing campaigns. This versatility ensures sales teams can adapt their strategies to different marketing scenarios. A standout feature of Engagio is its capability to connect accounts to leads seamlessly. This integration contributes to the conversion of long-term prospects into valuable clients. Engagio’s compatibility with multiple CRM apps enhances its functionality. This integration ensures a smooth flow of information between different tools, minimizing manual data entry. ## CircleBack CircleBack is focused on organizing contact information to empower salespersons. This tool automates the process of updating contact information. CircleBack ensures [sales teams](https://www.businessinsider.com/sc/how-to-train-virtual-and-hybrid-sales-teams-2021-7) have the latest details, contributing to more effective communication. Efficiency is further enhanced through features like business card scanning and email signature capture. These capabilities streamline the process of gathering and organizing vital contact information. CircleBack facilitates seamless synchronization of the address book, ensuring consistency across platforms. Additionally, the ability to create groups enhances organization and targeted communication. ## Salesforce Salesforce offers a comprehensive platform with wide-ranging capabilities. This tool excels in tracking detailed customer information. This depth of insight enables sales teams to tailor their approach based on individual customer profiles. A key focus of [Salesforce](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-salesforce-work/) is driving customer engagement. Through various tools and features, it ensures that businesses remain actively connected with their customer base. Salesforce’s commitment to customer support is evident through its 24/7 availability. This ensures businesses receive assistance whenever needed, contributing to a positive customer experience. Also, this tool provides highly customizable dashboards and reports. This flexibility empowers sales teams to create tailored visualizations that align with their needs and objectives. ## HubSpot HubSpot presents a comprehensive inbound marketing and sales platform, offering an integrated approach to [customer engagement](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/customer-engagement/). The CRM functionality of this tool forms the core of its platform. It enables businesses to manage and nurture relationships with prospects and customers effectively. HubSpot’s marketing automation tools streamline lead generation processes. Automation ensures that leads are nurtured systematically, contributing to a more efficient sales funnel. In addition, the Sales Hub within HubSpot focuses on streamlining sales processes. From prospecting to closing deals, this hub provides a centralized platform for efficient sales operations. HubSpot’s versatility is further enhanced through its integration capabilities. The platform seamlessly integrates with various tools and provides robust analytics for data-driven decision-making. ## Spotio SPOTIO caters to the needs of representatives, managers, and operations. The lead machine of this tool leverages 50+ prospecting data points for efficient lead identification. This data-driven approach enhances the accuracy of lead targeting. One of SPOTIO’s strengths lies in automating time-consuming tasks. Automating repetitive activities allows sales teams to focus on high-value engagements and opportunities. SPOTIO aids in optimizing sales routes, ensuring that representatives can navigate territories efficiently. This optimization contributes to better time management and increased productivity. In addition to that, SPOTIO facilitates engagement across multiple channels, including email, text, calls, and visits. The platform’s reporting capabilities provide insights into key sales activities and metrics. ## Autoklos Autoklose is a sales engagement platform focusing on automation and [B2B](https://alejandrorioja.com/paid-marketing-for-b2b-a-2023-guide/) database management. This tool simplifies email campaign management through automation. Which, in turn, streamlines reaching out to prospects with targeted email campaigns. The platform emphasizes personalized outreach. Autoklose enables sales teams to build and segment email lists based on specific criteria, ensuring a tailored approach. In addition, Autoklose’s reporting capabilities allow for monitoring campaign performance and sales team activities. This data-driven strategy of the Autoklose tool optimizes results continuously. ## Limecall Limecall is a callback software designed to facilitate personal one-on-one conversations with prospects. This tool offers various [communication channels](https://www.forbes.com/sites/womensmedia/2023/07/19/how-to-avoid-multiple-communication-channels-clogging-true-communication/), including SMS, web, and phone calls. Limecall’s flexibility ensures sales teams connect with prospects through their preferred channels. The platform also provides robust customer management tools and facilitates lead qualification. These features contribute to a streamlined process of converting leads into qualified prospects. Limecall’s flexibility extends to its pricing plans. With various options, businesses can choose a plan that aligns with their budget and specific requirements. ## EmailAnalytics EmailAnalytics takes a unique approach as a sales tool, focusing on visualizing the email activity of sales teams. One of EmailAnalytics’ standout features is the ability to visualize team email activity. This clearly explains how time is allocated within the team’s communication efforts. EmailAnalytics emphasizes the critical KPI of monitoring response times. This metric is crucial in the competitive landscape, where prompt responses often determine success. Plus, this tool facilitates team collaboration and reporting. Providing insights into team member activities encourages a collaborative and data-driven approach to [email](https://alejandrorioja.com/email-services-that-dont-require-phone-verification/) communications. ## VanillaSoft VanillaSoft introduces a unique lead prioritization approach, streamlining the process of managing incoming leads. This tool’s queue-based lead management eliminates manual processes in handling contact lists. The platform dynamically evaluates the “hotness” of each lead, ensuring immediate attention to the most promising opportunities. VanillaSoft’s capabilities extend to seamless appointment settings. Additionally, the platform provides detailed activity reports, offering insights into lead interactions and team performance. Also, the platform excels in facilitating multi-channel outreach. Sales teams can engage with leads through various channels, enhancing the chances of successful connections. ## Better Proposals Better Proposals positions itself as an all-in-one proposal management software, simplifying the creation and management of business proposals. This sales tool offers detailed analytics to track proposal performance. The platform includes a variety of proposal templates tailored to different industries and niches. Better Proposals’ seamless integration with CRMs and popular apps enhances the platform’s functionality. This integration ensures that proposal management is seamlessly woven into existing workflows. Another notable feature is the inclusion of electronic signatures and payment integrations. This streamlines the acceptance and processing of proposals, minimizing delays in closing deals. ## Additional Tools Additional tools provide sales teams a tailored, efficient, and competitive edge. Here are some of them: ### Indy Proposal Indy Proposal focuses on turning leads into clients through efficient proposal management. #### Key Features: - Building Proposals - E-signatures and Approvals - Automated Invoice Generation - Affordable Pricing ### Aloware Aloware is a dynamic contact center solution, offering features like a power dialer and SMS broadcast. #### Key Features: - Power Dialer and SMS Broadcast - CRM Integration - Smart Automation ### StoryDoc You can make dynamic business-to-business presentations, proposals, and pitch decks with StoryDoc. #### Key Features: - Templates - Integration - Tracking Analytics ### Lead411 Lead411 is an accurate data provider focusing on buyer intent data and lead scoring. #### Key Features: - Triple-verified Emails - Buyer Intent Data - Lead Scoring - Real-time Data Updates ### Intercom Intercom is a powerful sales efficiency tool that automates and streamlines sales processes. #### Key Features: - Automation with AI Chatbots - Messenger and Omnichannel Support - Data Reporting and Insights ### Totango Totango focuses on optimizing sales processes and increasing revenue through customer engagement analytics. #### Key Features: - Customer Engagement Analytics - Customer Success Management - Automation and Collaboration ## Choose the Right Combination of Tools for Success The right combination of tools can significantly impact results and efficiency. It’s crucial for businesses to intelligently invest in digital sales strategies that align with their organizational goals. The sales tools I mentioned in this guide cater to various aspects of the sales process. Whether it’s prospecting, customer relationship management, analytics, or engagement, there’s a tool designed to address specific needs. However, the success of sales efforts lies not just in adopting the latest tools but in understanding how these tools can work together. It’s about having the right tools for the job. Sales teams should evaluate their needs, consider their workflow, and identify areas where tools can enhance efficiency. If you liked this article, check out my other blog posts on digital tools and sales to help you more with your online endeavors: - [How To Make The Best Guides To Get More Leads, Traffic, And Sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-the-best-guides-to-get-more-leads-traffic-and-sales/) - [Top AI Tools To Make You More Productive At Work](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-tools-to-make-you-more-productive-at-work/) - [Top AI-Powered Copywriting Tools for Bloggers](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-powered-copywriting-tools-for-bloggers/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Migrate A Website Successfully? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-migrate-a-website-successfully/ Published: 2024-02-26 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Business ## Table of contents #### Bottom line To migrate a website successfully, you must carefully plan, communicate, and carry out the steps. Set clear goals, do a full audit, pick the right platform, and ensure you have your info backups. You can also set up a test environment, inform everyone involved in the migration, and do it in stages. Put SEO concerns at the top of your list, test thoroughly, and keep a close eye on speed after migration. By taking these important steps, you can get through the complicated process of moving your website, lower your risks, and ensure the move to a better online presence goes smoothly. Staying competitive in the fast-paced digital world means keeping your website up-to-date and effective. One way to keep up is by moving a website from one platform or hosting environment to another or website migration. It’s a common way to improve speed, security, and user experience. A good website migration, on the other hand, needs careful planning and attention to detail. In this detailed guide, I will show you all the steps you must take to ensure your website transfer goes smoothly. ## What is a Website Migration? Modifying your website in a way that affects its structure, performance, or traffic is called a website migration. Transforming from one domain to another is the most typical method of migrating websites. Other forms of migration include updating your URL structure and migrating from HTTP to HTTPS. Sometimes, migrating your website is essential for your company and offers numerous advantages; however, you must exercise caution. Your site’s earnings might plummet if you were to crash it, halve your visitors, or drastically alter its usability. While those are all legitimate concerns, they may all be addressed with a well-thought-out plan for migrating the site, such as the one I’ll provide below. But it would be best if you didn’t disregard the risk. You should consider migration a significant project and allocate sufficient resources (and money) to it because it can potentially disrupt your site’s performance, traffic, and other metrics. ## Essential Factors to Consider Before Website Migration A checklist is helpful during website migrations because they can be complex and demanding. As you move through the process of converting your website, make note of each item on this checklist. 1. Clearly state your reasons for wanting to move your website. 2. Set specific, attainable, and quantifiable targets. 3. Plan your website migration with a timeframe and a budget. 4. Begin putting together your team. 5. Get a marketing plan to advertise your new site before it goes live. 6. Implement a content freeze. 7. Crawl through your current site and compile a database of all your pages. 8. Make a plan for 301 redirects to transfer all your content to your new domain. 9. Perform tests in a controlled setting to ensure that redirection functions properly and that pages load correctly. 10. Determine a system to monitor the progress of your website migration. 11. Get the migration done. 12. Keep tabs on how your migration affects things for a year and adjust accordingly. ## Website Migration Steps The secret to a smooth website move is thorough preparation. A certain amount of planning must go into every website migration, whether a large-scale operation involving thousands of pages or a small-scale operation involving just one page. Your chances of avoiding a steep decline in traffic or other issues diminish in proportion to the level of detail you put into your plan. The recuperation process might still be easier and faster even if this does occur. ### 1\. Define Your Objectives Before migrating, you must decide why and how your site will be transformed. Will this impact just a section of your present site, or will you move the whole thing to a new domain? Among the several justifications for moving a website are: - transitioning from HTTP to HTTPS - accessing a larger audience through an improved domain - internationalizing your site - boosting search traffic - enhancing its appearance The first step in developing a workable plan for a site transfer is to identify the reasons behind it.  One goal in migrating to HTTPS could be to keep the same amount of traffic. However, if you’re transferring to a .com domain for international reach, you might want to [increase traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/). Additionally, it will assist you in improving your future planning. Being as careful and well-prepared as possible is the way to go. Get your name to as many people as possible in and out of your company. Everyone from search engine optimization (SEO) specialists to designers to analytics teams can offer their two cents on what to do correctly and what to avoid. ### 2\. Perform a Website Audit Find the best-performing pages by accessing the key performance indicators for each page on your site. Your top performers are the pages that bring in the most money, make the most conversions, and have the most visitors. Knowing which pages are performing the best will help you prioritize your efforts. Find the pages that are performing the best by analyzing the key performance indicators you just obtained. Then, double-check this list by applying: - Go to Pages in ContentKing and sort by relevance. It uses data from Google Analytics and Search Console, among other things, to evaluate relevance. - Tracking tools for ranks - Analytics software, such as Google Analytics - Various backlink databases, including Majestic, Ahrefs, and Google Search Console Please specify if the pages will remain or be relocated, merged, or deleted following the migration. Later on, while you’re creating your reroute plan, you’ll need this information. ### 3\. Choose the Right Platform You must carefully consider your options before settling on a website platform. Think about things like usability, scalability, and how well it fits in with your company objectives. Before you upgrade your hosting environment or switch [content manag](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-joomla-vs-drupal-unveiling-the-best-cms-for-your-website/)[e](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-joomla-vs-drupal-unveiling-the-best-cms-for-your-website/)[ment systems (CMS)](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-joomla-vs-drupal-unveiling-the-best-cms-for-your-website/), ensure the platform you choose suits your website’s goals and technical needs. ### 4\. Backup Your Data Before migrating a website, ensure you have a backup of all the files, content, and media. Anything can happen; therefore, don’t discount or disregard this protection step. If anything happens to your current website, you can easily restore it from a backup by copying and storing all of your data. Several options exist for reproducing the look and feel of an existing website: - Incorporate WordPress plugins such as Duplicator, UpdraftPlus, All-in-One WP Migration, or others into your website’s WordPress installation. - Another option is to use FileZilla or another FTP (File Transfer Protocol) program to perform the transfer manually. Keep in mind, too, that manual copying is laborious and intricate. - Using its control panel, you can make copies of your website. Your website is probably also utilizing cPanel, one of the most widely used control panels. - A third-party provider may handle everything when you sign up for website backups. Be picky about the method you use to duplicate your site. Acquire a thorough understanding of the process’s intricacies if you handle everything manually or automatically. Hiring a third-party service might be helpful, but you can also bring in an expert in the field to help with the migration. Managing the backup process and getting everything ready for seamless site migration is made easier with a basic understanding. ### 5\. Inform Stakeholders and Users When migrating a website, communication is paramount. Notify everyone with a stake in the matter, such as team members, clients, and users, of the impending modifications. Explain everything in detail, including how the migration will affect them. Clear communication aids in setting reasonable expectations and reducing disturbances. ### 6\. Set Up a Test Environment Unchecked errors can harm your site’s UX or traffic during migration. Conduct a thorough test in a closed environment to avoid such issues. There are several good reasons to conduct the migration test in a confined setting. At the very least, your live site will remain unaffected by your edits. Furthermore, by preserving the previous site online, you enable clients to continue using it and provide a reference point for your modifications. Third, you may always remove the confined space and begin over if something goes wrong. When you can begin, testing depends on the type of migration you are performing. For example, you can start testing a newly developed design when it’s ready for launch. The usual rule is that [website testing](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2023/10/17/a-beginners-guide-to-website-testing-easy-steps-to-ensure-a-positive-user-experience/) should begin as soon as possible. There will be more time to fix problems if they are identified sooner. Also, there can be certain mistakes that you can tolerate. Some people have the power to destroy your site’s future (and cause a Google penalty). In the test, you need to be sure of a few things. Some examples are: - Internal linking - Metadata - Mobile responsiveness - Search functionality and other site features - Site architecture - Usability Keep in mind that everyone’s contributions are vital. Assigning testing of the migration to a single individual is not a good idea. When working outside of one’s expertise, it’s easy for a single person to make a mistake or typo. A multi-disciplinary team has a far lower chance of missing anything. ### 7\. Execute the Migration in Phases Now that you’ve done everything by the book, it’s time to finish migrating your website. You’ve undoubtedly put in a lot of time and effort to reach this point; nevertheless, if the migration is successful, it will all have been worthwhile. It doesn’t matter how long it took to get to this point. The key is to move swiftly and efficiently.  Minimizing downtime throughout the migration process is crucial, as it will require taking your site offline. Your [site’s rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google/) are likelier to take a hit the longer you keep it offline. After the migration, update robots.txt, try some redirects (especially to your most important pages), and submit your modified XML sitemap to Google Search Console. ### 8\. Check for SEO Impact [Search engine optimization (SEO)](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/12/08/3-ways-to-enhance-your-seo-in-2024/) may change drastically when moving a website. Make sure that search engines can easily crawl and index your newly reorganized site and that any old URLs have the correct redirects set up. Search engine rankings are an important metric to track, so tweak your site as needed. ### 9\. Test, Test, Test A successful relocation relies on thorough testing. Test your website across browsers and devices to ensure a consistent and user-friendly experience. Take care of any problems with speed, functionality, and responsiveness. ### 10\. Monitor Post-Migration Performance After the migration, watch how well your website is doing. Notable [metrics](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/12/14/8-new-metrics-for-measuring-success-in-the-digital-age/) include user engagement, bounce rate, and website load speed. Make sure users have a good experience after migration by fixing any problems quickly. ## Navigate the Digital Evolution with a Seamless Website Migration Migrating a website is a complex procedure that demands meticulous preparation and execution. By following these steps, you can ensure your website meets your audience’s changing needs and improve the chances of a successful migration. Plan and pay close attention to detail to ensure a smooth transition and enjoy the advantages of an enhanced online presence. So, are you ready to improve your website now? If you like what you read, you may check more related website building, content creation, and SEO-related information. - [Proven Ways To Generate New Content Ideas](https://alejandrorioja.com/proven-ways-to-generate-new-content-ideas/) - [.Com vs .Net – A Comprehensive Guide For Choosing The Best For Your Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/com-vs-net/) - [How Does SEO Improve Marketing On The Global Scale](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/) I hope you learn a lot of useful tips and information to launch your website. Feel free to share your feedback, and let me know which topic you want to read next. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top 10 Marketing Certifications That Deliver Exceptional Value Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-certifications/ Published: 2024-02-22 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: With some preparation, you can join the ranks of over 200,000 professionals who hold the Google Analytics Individual Qualification. This versatile certification is your ticket to landing a digital marketing position or advancing your career. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line To stay ahead in a field as changing as marketing, you have to keep learning. Certifications are a cheap way to get skills that are in high demand, which could lead to more job opportunities and higher pay. While free online resources are available, targeted certification validates expertise. If getting certified excites you and opens up new job opportunities, sign up for classes and start your journey to success. Want to move up in your marketing career but don’t have the degree or skills to get a good job that pays well?  As the field of marketing changes, certifications are a cheap way to get the information that is in demand. For some, they can lead to more job possibilities and higher wages.  But since there are so many choices, which certifications are worth the money? Don’t worry! You can take your job to the next level by getting one of these top 10 marketing certifications.  ## 1\. Digital Marketing Institute’s Digital Marketing Pro The Digital Marketing Pro program from Digital Marketing Institute is a globally recognized certification in digital marketing. With time and money instilled in this program, it is well worth the global recognition and career opportunities it provides.  ### Why Go For This? - It covers core digital marketing skills like content marketing, social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, email marketing, and analytics. - Completing the program earns you a dual certification from the Digital Marketing Institute and the [American Marketing Association](https://www.forbes.com/sites/allenadamson/2023/06/01/four-industry-icons-share-how-to-thrive-not-just-survive-in-a-rapidly-changing-marketplace/?sh=422da509741e) (AMA). ### How to Get Started 1. You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field like marketing, communications, or business. 2. Complete ten instructor-led or 16 self-paced online courses covering core areas of digital marketing. 3. You have 12 months to complete the required courses and exams. Extensions are available for an additional fee. ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/VOBZ1t5mEAcG51LNnQXFnbN6snYyFrEHsY_uoU0ux3laFyDG2fRCIY-osNR2oBI9Ia5puzP1qqUyJNB7y6IGz9IebXLk-XXY-2NlnhlBR0KSSEQyGNCZYS0KXGkaxR71yqLmrnjsnFwrPU4p) ## 2\. Google Analytics Individual Qualification With some preparation, you can join the ranks of over 200,000 professionals who hold the Google Analytics Individual Qualification. This versatile certification is your ticket to landing a digital marketing position or advancing your career.  ### Why Go For This? - Provide you with a strong understanding of Google Analytics, the world’s most-used analytics platform. - A Google Analytics certification on your resume can help you land an analytics-focused job or promotion.  - You’ll learn how to create custom reports, set up goals and events, analyze ecommerce data, optimize mobile apps, and more. ### How to Get Started 1. Complete the free [Google Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/8-commonly-misinterpreted-metrics-in-google-analytics/) for Beginners course. This covers the basics and helps prepare you for the exam. 2. Review the exam guide, which details all topics and objectives.  3. Take practice exams to get familiar with the format and experience.  4. Schedule your exam on the Google Analytics certification site.  5. Once you pass the 70-question, 90-minute exam, your certification is valid for 18 months.  ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/Y6dLKPa-7UzAu7keVWZjTYiQoKayiJDe727F7YMCwNdLgzZLq2YGQjVlXnczkZmS2FnoBSit1lGym1fkgSq80HVwpQ3-j0gKAg3Zkmf80Dft59p1Uv79jAgvX6cb5SO_kD3iu96QRak7EvMt) ## 3\. Microsoft Advertising Certification Microsoft Advertising offers a certification program for digital advertising on its platform. Earning the Microsoft Advertising Certification can be a valuable investment and help set you apart in the competitive field of online advertising.  ### Why Go For This? - Help you land a job or promotion in search marketing, paid search, and online advertising. - Covers the latest tools, reports, and best practices for Microsoft Advertising. ### How to Get Started 1. Go through Microsoft Advertising’s free online courses to learn the platform and prepare for the exam. 2. You can schedule the Microsoft Advertising Search exam on Microsoft’s website. 3. Pass the exam. The 100-question multiple-choice exam typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete. You’ll need an 80% score or higher to pass. 4. To stay certified, you must pass a new exam every two years. Microsoft Advertising releases updated exams to reflect changes to their platform and tools. ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/IOltjHFNZvDJcwof7h2fSFFclXO7bTnEjRD3WNV74bMpUDBzvNQlQBoURH-zKdlddc-5esLJf9E5dkGqxuzEinI9DNF_0Gb7WRZXfU3JIXeEvqg0Q3M3HCgdcLLNmd2LVJKW97yUEAp6Kmlt) ## 4\. Hootsuite Academy Marketing Certification The [Hootsuite](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230912338607/en/What%E2%80%99s-it-Really-Like-to-Work-in-Social-Media-Hootsuite-Unveils-the-Unfiltered-Realities-of-the-Modern-Social-Media-Manager) Social Marketing Certification provides a solid foundation for social media strategy and tactics. This certification is worth the investment for social media marketers looking to advance their careers. ### Why Go For This? - The course covers essential topics like building a social media strategy, creating engaging content, growing your audience, and analyzing the results. - This certification is recognized globally and can help open up career opportunities. ### How to Get Started 1. Enroll in the Social Marketing Training course on Hootsuite Academy. The self-paced course takes around 10 hours to complete. 2. Study the video lessons and course materials.  3. Apply what you’ve learned by completing realistic social media marketing tasks. Get feedback to reinforce the course concepts. 4. Review and take the certification exam. You’ll get two chances to pass the exam with a score of at least 80%. 5. Once you pass the exam, you’ll receive a digital badge and certificate to display your accomplishment. Your certification is valid for two years, after which you can renew by retaking the exam. ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/_c14VrPiTZKEhwskJE0uPXZcAV1qjEvLKH7LxKZPn0tbeK59c_Ej11u0POn5lPAWvvcphV5HmHKRmL95zqU7glQoaSKN7eFuZc5ovp0TRyixUSd0EPIy_ItwtJ_quBppnCMvjOF8I3G_9dhp) ## 5\. OMCP Digital Marketing Certification The OMCP Digital Marketing Certification verifies your skills and knowledge in the digital marketing field. This certification requires passing three exams covering the latest strategies and tools. ### Why Go For This? - Earning this certificate will show employers you have current, in-demand skills. - The OMCP covers both the broad scope of digital marketing and specialized areas like social media marketing, content marketing, and analytics.  ### How to Get Started 1. Meet the prerequisites. You need at least two years of work experience in digital marketing and a bachelor’s degree. 2. The OMCP certification is self-study. You’ll need to review the OMCP’s digital marketing curriculum, which covers social media, SEO, email marketing, and web analytics. 3. Register and pay for the exams. The fees for the OMCP certification and exams are $395. You must register on the OMCP website. 4. The OMCP requires passing three exams: two specialized area exams and one broad digital marketing concepts exam. Exams are multiple choice and short answer. 5. To stay certified, you must earn continuing education credits annually and renew your certification every two years. ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/yrGPL_AE6zmxNuYpwS6QfGBA4IX2p00pvp8pKF-k1moJIWtEJmsJDBXpfLy74vFoorfiGAJDI2Tcgw7zqfe1LIWBtWVKbjkkhZJu2oVTB4yFiR_lXhlDligBpkLINtOgeBYanYRXrxbNJ2nD) ## 6\. YouTube Certified If you want to become an expert in YouTube and open up career opportunities, the [YouTube Certified](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-youtube-channel-keywords-impact-video-optimization/) program is worth your time. The YouTube Certified program provides valuable knowledge and skills that can benefit individuals and brands using YouTube to connect with audiences. ### Why Go For This? - The courses teach you how to optimize your channel, improve video content, build your audience, and strengthen your brand on YouTube. - The certification program provides the latest information to help you adapt your channel strategy. ### How to Get Started 1. To get started, you must meet some basic eligibility criteria, like an active YouTube channel and a Google Ads account.  2. Enroll in the courses and exams for the YouTube Certified program. The courses include video lessons, readings, quizzes, and a final exam.  3. Passing each exam with a score of 80% or higher earns you a certification for that topic. ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/V04oDTpzEa_YdfJ0cKOVA_PUB17t3nbolmxyeEwyW0LzcacXLbOgcgEAEzz35Wsf7lUYJ91iz0g_ArZ8oiayvycsL0x5iTxty9Oivj0canPVt_pJRPIWXah67437LUz5ClDiKNC6XxbcIz4p) ## 7\. Google Ads Marketing Certification [Google Ads](https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/7139-adwords-small-business.html) certifications exhibit your skills in creating and managing Google Ads campaigns. Earning a certification in Google Ads can help boost your career as a digital marketer. ### Why Go For This? - Google Ads certifications cover various areas such as Search, Display, Video, Shopping Ads, Apps, and Measurement. - Acquiring a Google Ads certification shows Google you are proficient in creating, managing, and optimizing advertising campaigns.  ### How to Get Started 1. You can prepare for the exams by taking the Google Ads training courses. The courses teach you Google Ads skills through interactive lessons and hands-on activities. 2. Once you complete the necessary courses, you can register for an exam. Exams are taken online at your own pace.  3. If you pass an exam, you will receive an official Google Ads certification.  ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/4cEJ7kdeel4URKmNY4FwyTcTyJDQtdWRu1_BTrFsLffxntBvT4qC639B9xrW3DFQP0B666ekTTKn8m_gs4G70yx6e9o8oJMOjJMF_-qvUJUd6Q9d9NlzcqO9yydDMH7ZDemhbnvSs02GGP3t) ## 8\. Facebook BluePrint Marketing Certification The [Facebook BluePrint](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) certification is designed to help you master Facebook’s marketing tools and become an expert in running ad campaigns, creating content, and analyzing metrics. ### Why Go For This? - Gaining a solid understanding of Facebook marketing will allow you to reach audiences on a massive scale. The certification covers core skills across Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. - Facebook BluePrint offers free online training courses to help improve your marketing skills. You can take interactive video lessons and download useful playbooks. ### How to Get Started 1. Choose your certification track. Each has a different focus, from building ad campaigns to analyzing metrics. 2. Review Facebook’s online lessons, tutorials, and playbooks.  3. Once you’re ready, schedule and take the certification exam. It includes both multiple-choice and open-ended questions to assess your knowledge. 4. Keep your certification up to date. You’ll need to retake the exam every two years to maintain your certification.  ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/_LZuU7Elz-I01ttNsFLJ6JtdiH5WytYBMSUIglC6fIAYZBeeXhkcGKzp55kcGaVnK0h79Yp_tYP_5mkKC7cRUrGAbBDgcpdTbTO4xHHVTMyrCfvTV3zIkNg88AK4NmF_IY-AdU9ApiPWQD8V) ## 9\. HubSpot Content Marketing Certification HubSpot Academy is the leader in inbound marketing education. Their certifications are highly valued in the industry. ### Why Go For This? - Teach you strategies for creating engaging content. You’ll learn how to write blog posts, ebooks, videos, and more that people want to read and share. - Help you improve your content creation skills. The course covers content mapping, optimizing for search engines and social media, and measuring content performance. ### How to Get Started 1. Create a free HubSpot Academy account. You’ll get access to all their courses and certifications. 2. Enroll in the Content Marketing Certification course. It has 12 lessons that cover content creation, optimization, and analytics. 3. Complete the lessons at your own pace. Most take 30-45 minutes. You can log in and out as needed. 4. Take the final exam. It has 50 multiple-choice questions. You need a score of 80% or higher to pass. ## ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/4Wd5MH8JA-SQhcA_I04znmhJIsHRVQ-5VlnDlP9erqGKUB1CKNThPkKk_E55H1WfdZhdY4CMc-rgTtPaFpTkZtZtKRK0BWVn7irS_OtP00vPGGTWfx5E1h0wev1ag5gXSawuwgBOnxYKbS3r) ## 10\. SEMrush SEO Toolkit Course The SEMrush SEO Toolkit Course is one of the top marketing certifications for learning technical SEO. In fact, earning the [SEMrush SEO Toolkit](https://alejandrorioja.com/semrush-review/) certification can help boost your search marketing knowledge and career.  ### Why Go For This? - You’ll get a complete overview of how to optimize a website for search engines. - You’ll learn how to conduct an SEO audit, optimize page content, build internal links, earn high-quality backlinks, and track your rankings. - Enrollees get free access to SEMrush’s toolkit, which includes over 20 tools for keyword research, rank tracking, site audits, backlink analysis, and content optimization.  ### How to Get Started 1. Enroll in the SEMrush SEO Toolkit course. You can purchase access on the SEMrush website. 2. Study the video lessons and downloadable course materials. The curriculum covers SEO fundamentals, on-page optimization, off-page optimization, and SEO tools. 3. Practice what you learn using the SEMrush toolkit.  4. Review the key concepts and take the certification exam. You’ll need to pass the exam with a score of at least 80% to earn your certification. ## Get the Best Marketing Certifications Today As a marketing professional, continuous learning and improving skills are essential to career growth. While there are many free resources for learning online, a certification in your area of expertise can help validate your knowledge and skills.  The certifications discussed here are some of the top options for marketers looking to strengthen their resume and open up more career opportunities. If one of these marketing certifications appeals to you, take the next step to enroll in courses and study for the exam.  Did you like this post? If so, I recommend checking out some of my blogs that you might also enjoy: - [Everything You Need to Know About Google Certifications](https://alejandrorioja.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-google-certifications/) - [Are Google Certificates Worth Your Career Investment?](https://alejandrorioja.com/are-google-certificates-worth-your-career-investment/) - [Ultimate Digital Marketing Guide For Beginners – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/ultimate-digital-marketing-guide-for-beginners/)  Feel free to share your feedback by dropping your comments below, and let me know which topic you would like me to cover next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Creative Ways To Use Twitter’s Voice Tweet Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-twitters-voice-tweet/ Published: 2024-02-12 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: You’ve probably heard about Twitter’s new voice tweet feature that allows you to share audio clips up to 140 seconds long. While voice tweets open up new creative possibilities, you may wonder how to use them. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Twitter’s new voice tweet feature lets you share 140-second audio clips, offering creative possibilities. As a Twitter enthusiast, exploring new features is essential.  Voice tweets are brief audio clips posted on your profile and followers’ timelines. This enables authentic and personal expression. You’ve probably heard about Twitter’s new voice tweet feature that allows you to share audio clips up to 140 seconds long. While voice tweets open up new creative possibilities, you may wonder how to use them.  As an avid Twitter user, you want to stay on the edge of new features and provide value to your followers. The options are endless if you use your imagination.  This article will discover how voice tweets can transform how you tweet and take your Twitter game to the next level. ## What is a Voice Tweet? Voice tweets are [short audio clips](https://www.theverge.com/2023/7/27/23809857/whatsapp-video-messages-announced-meta) you can record and send as tweets on Twitter. Like a regular tweet, your voice tweet will appear on your profile and in your followers’ timelines. Voice tweets allow you to share your thoughts in an authentic and personal way. Some popular uses of these tweets include: - Sharing quick reactions or hot takes on current events.  - Telling short stories or sharing anecdotes.  - Sending messages to friends.  - Spreading awareness for causes or organizations you care about.  ## Top Ways to Use Voice Tweets As voice tweets become more popular, brands and influencers are finding creative ways to use them. Here are some of the top ways to use voice tweets in your social media strategy: ### 1\. Improve Your Brand Personality Using voice tweets is an easy way to inject more personality into your brand. Recording short audio messages allows you to connect with your audience in an authentic, human way. In fact, [86 percent](https://www.smallbizgenius.net/by-the-numbers/branding-statistics/#gref) of consumers choose businesses with an honest, straightforward, genuine identity. Voice tweets quickly make your brand appear that way.  Here’s how to use voice tweets to boost your brand’s personality: - Discuss your brand values and mission. Hearing about your key priorities helps strengthen your brand identity in followers’ minds.  - Highlight customer stories. Share glowing reviews or testimonials from happy clients and customers.  ### 2\. Promote Your Products [Promoting your products](https://alejandrorioja.com/essential-tips-for-promoting-a-new-product/) on Voice Tweet is an easy way to reach new potential customers. When people follow your profile, they’ll receive alerts whenever you post a new voice tweet.  Consider using this platform to: #### Announce Sales or Special Offers Post a short message promoting the deal and include relevant details or links. Your followers who have notifications enabled will find out right away. #### Talk About New Product Launches Build excitement by recording a voice tweet to announce a product release or reveal. Share some teasers or behind-the-scenes details to create buzz. #### Review or Demo Products Post voice tweets where you discuss how a product works or share your experience using it. Keep these types of voice tweets under 60 seconds for the best engagement. ### 3\. Act as Customer Service Voice tweets open up an easy new avenue for customer service. Brands can now provide quick voice responses to common questions. It even becomes conversational responses for more complex issues. Here’s how it works: #### FAQ Voice Responses Record short voice tweets to [frequently asked questions](https://smallbiztrends.com/2023/08/faq-page.html) from customers. For example, a shipping company may have voice tweets answering queries like: - “What’s the status of my order?” - “How do I track my package?” - “What are your hours of operation?” #### Conversational Support Voice conversations may feel more personable than text for some customers. Brands that provide great conversational support over voice tweets will build goodwill and brand loyalty. ### 4\. Increase Customer Loyalty Voice tweets offer a unique way for brands to strengthen customer loyalty and connection. By sharing short audio messages, you can: #### Build Familiarity Hearing a real human voice helps customers feel like they know your brand on a more personal level. Regular voice tweets in an authentic, friendly tone build familiarity and trust. #### Share Entertainment Lighthearted, [fun voice tweets](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) give followers another reason to keep returning to your profile. For example, share a funny story or experience about your product or service. #### Spread Positivity Positivity breeds positivity. Voice tweets with inspiring quotes, encouragement, or simple expressions of gratitude are a great way to boost customer happiness and loyalty. ### 5\. Share Your Stories Voice tweets open up new opportunities for storytelling. You can share short stories and anecdotes from your day or retell interesting experiences in your own words using the audio format. Some ideas to get started include: - Share a funny or awkward encounter you had at the grocery store. Voice tweets are perfect for bringing those types of short tales to life. - Retell your favorite scene from a book or movie in your own words. Put your spin on familiar stories and bring them into a new medium. - Talk about an inspiring person you met recently. Listeners always appreciate these types of uplifting stories. - Describe your morning or evening routine. The mundane details of your daily life can be surprisingly interesting to others. ### 6\. Collaborate with Influencers As an influencer, consider teaming up with other [influencers in your niche](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/) to co-create voice tweets. Some ideas include: - Interviewing each other and sharing the recordings as voice tweets. This is an easy way to tap into each other’s audiences and gain new followers. - Collaborating on a short audio series. For example, influencers in the travel niche could share tips for planning a dream vacation. - Give other influencers a shoutout in your tweets and ask them to do the same. Retweet or re-share each other’s voice tweets to increase exposure. - Promote each other’s products, services, or events in your voice tweets. For example, two fashion influencers could promote each other’s clothing lines or new product launches. - Live voice tweeting together. This interactive experience will resonate strongly with your followers. ### 7\. Entertain Your Audience Voice tweets have significant potential for spreading positivity, lighthearted fun, and creative inspiration. Don’t be afraid to tap into your playful side and share what makes you smile. Your good mood is contagious, and here’s what you need to do: - Do impressions. Share your best impressions if you know how to mimic celebrities or characters. Voice tweets are perfect for showcasing your talents. - Sing or play an instrument. Music is a universal language that brings joy to many. - Vlog or share daily moments. These clips about your day can help followers get to know the real you. Keep things lighthearted and upbeat. - Give virtual tours. Take followers on a virtual tour of interesting places near you. Help others discover new sights and explore from afar. ## Can Everyone Use Voice Tweets? Unfortunately, Voice Tweets are currently only available to iOS users. Android and web users do not have access to this new Twitter feature. ## How to Record a Voice Tweet To record your first voice tweet, follow these simple steps: ### 1\. Tap Post Compose Icon Tap the Post Compose icon at the top of your Twitter app to start recording a voice tweet. This feature looks like a feather pen.  ### 2\. Tap the Voice Icon and Record Your Tweet To send a voice tweet, tap the voice icon—it looks like a microphone—at the bottom of the tweet composer. Hold the icon and speak your tweet. Release when you’re done recording. Your voice tweet can be up to 140 seconds long. Some tips for recording effective voice tweets include: 1. Speak clearly and at a normal volume and pace. Yelling or whispering can make your voice tweet hard to understand. 2. Find a quiet place to record. Background noise can distract from your message. 3. Practice what you want to say before recording. Have a script or outline in mind to avoid “um’s” and awkward pauses. 4. Listen to your recording before posting to ensure it’s clear and conveys your intended message. You can re-record as needed. 5. Consider transcribing your voice tweet in the text field for accessibility. This allows more people to engage with your tweet. 6. Be authentic and share your personality. Voice tweets are a chance to connect on a more personal level with your followers. ### 3\. Add Text or Thread You can add text comments to elaborate on your voice tweet or create a thread of multiple tweets. To add text: 1. Simply tap the comment icon after recording your voice tweet.  2. Type your comment and post.  Your followers will see the text displayed below your voice tweet. On the other hand, creating a thread allows you to share a series of connected thoughts in a sequence. To start a thread:  1. Record and post your first voice tweet as usual.  2. Tap the comment icon again and select “Start a thread.”  3. Record and post your follow-up voice tweets. They will appear linked together in a thread.  ### 4\. Post It After you speak for up to 140 seconds, then post. Like any other update, your followers will see the voice tweet appear in their timelines.  ## How to Play a Voice Tweet To play a voice tweet, follow these simple steps: ### Look for the Waveform Icon Voice tweets will have a waveform icon next to them instead of an image. Tap the waveform to begin playback of the audio clip. ### Tap to Play Once you’ve selected a voice tweet, tap the center of the tweet to start playing the audio. The waveform will animate as the audio plays to show the progress. ### Adjust Playback Speed You can speed up or slow down the playback of a voice tweet. Tap the speed selector, which looks like a circle with three lines through it. Choose 1x for normal speed, 1.5x to speed up, or 0.5x to slow down. ### Replay Audio If you want to listen again or miss part of the voice tweet, just tap the tweet again to replay from the beginning. You can replay as many times as you like. ## How to See Captions of Voice Tweets To view the captions for voice tweets, there are a couple of options available to you: ### On the Web Click the “**CC**” button on the web to view the captions of voice tweets. This button is located at the bottom of the voice tweet window. Clicking it will display what was said in the audio message. ### On iOS 1. Tap or click the CC icon in the top-right corner of the voice tweet window to see the captions.  2. For iOS 13 and above, go to **Settings** → **Accessibility** → **Hearing** → **Captions** to enable captions for voice tweets.  ## Voice Your Thoughts Through Voice Tweets While voice tweets may require extra effort, the rewards of increased engagement, loyalty, and connection with your audience can be well worth it.  Why not try one of these voice tweet strategies this week and see how your followers respond? You might just find that voice tweets are integral to your social media content strategy. Like these posts? Why not read my other blogs to learn more? - [Uncovering The Mystery: How To See Who Viewed Your Twitter Profile?](https://alejandrorioja.com/uncovering-the-mystery-how-to-see-who-viewed-your-twitter-profile/) - [How To Download Twitter Videos In 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-twitter-videos/) - [How To Do Twitter Marketing And Grow Your Account 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-twitter-marketing/) Drop your comments below and share your thoughts on what you want me to cover next! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 X (the platform formerly known as Twitter, rebranded July 2023) has continued reshaping the surface area. As of 2026: - **The blue check is now part of X Premium** ($8/mo basic, $16/mo Premium+, $22/mo for verified orgs) — the old "request verification" workflow is dead. - **Profile view counts** are visible to logged-in users on every tweet; the "who viewed my profile" myth that powered a generation of clickbait apps is finally moot. - **Voice tweets** are still in the product but rebranded as "Voice Posts" and limited to X Premium subscribers in most regions. - **API access** for legitimate automation costs from $200/mo (Basic) to $5K/mo (Pro), so the bulk-scripting era is over for most operators. For 2026 growth: ~611M MAU per X's last self-reported number (April 2025). Engagement still favors threaded, citation-friendly posts that get quoted by ChatGPT and Perplexity — the "X as feeder for AI engines" play is the dark-horse 2026 SEO move. --- ## Building Authority Links: Essential For New Blog Success Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-authority-links/ Published: 2024-02-06 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Quality backlinks from trusted sites tell Google your content is reliable. As you become a valued blogger, authority links will come to you. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line You’ve been blogging with great content, but your traffic is low due to a lack of authority. Quality backlinks from trusted sites tell Google your content is reliable.  As you become a valued blogger, authority links will come to you. Keep learning, stay passionate, and be patient. Over time, your authority and links will increase. You’ve started a blog and published valuable content for a few months, but your traffic numbers are still low. The problem is likely a lack of authority and trust in the eyes of search engines.  Now, the solution? Build high-quality backlinks to your site from authoritative domains. These authoritative links signal to Google that your content is credible and worth ranking higher.  But how do you get other sites to link to your new blog? This article will talk about some proven ways to gain authority links and boost search traffic. ## 1\. Create Free Valuable Resources To gain [authority backlinks](https://smallbiztrends.com/2023/10/what-is-domain-authority.html) for a new blog, create free, valuable resources that people will want to link to. The more quality links you gain, the higher your search rankings will become. Some of these resources include: ### Free Ebooks and Guides Write an in-depth ebook or guide on your topic and offer it as a free download on your site.  ### Useful Tools and Resources Develop a useful tool, template, checklist, or resource your target audience will appreciate. For example, a keyword research template, content calendar, or social media planning worksheet.  ### Online Courses If you have expertise working well in an online video course, create a short free course to publish on your blog. Reach out to websites, bloggers, and businesses that might be interested in promoting the course to their audience.  ## 2\. Get Involved in Online PR [Online PR](https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-pr-and-seo-can-converge-to-supercharge-your-online/459461) not only helps increase your blog’s visibility but also builds its credibility. When authoritative sites and news sources link back to your content, it boosts your blog’s authority in the eyes of search engines and readers. This, in turn, improves your blog’s search engine rankings. Here are some tips you can get involved in online PR: 1. Craft content that’s unique and newsworthy. This could include research findings, in-depth guides, or breaking industry news. 2. Connect with journalists or bloggers who cover topics related to your content. Provide them with a well-crafted pitch and offer to be a resource for their stories. 3. Write and distribute press releases for significant milestones or developments on your blog. 4. Keep tabs on mentions of your blog or industry online. Engage in conversations and discussions to establish your authority. ## 3\. Fill the Content Gap One of the best ways to build authority for a new blog is by filling content gaps. This means creating posts on topics your target audience wants to read about but doesn’t already have a lot of coverage. To find these gaps, do some keyword research. You can use free tools like Google’s Keyword Planner, [Moz’s Keyword Explorer](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2020/03/13/a-step-by-step-guide-to-mastering-keyword-research-in-2020/), or Ahrefs’ Keywords Explorer. Look for terms with high search volume but low competition. Once you’ve identified some good keyword targets, search for those terms to evaluate the existing content. Look for areas where information seems sparse, outdated, or lacking depth.  These are prime opportunities to create pillar content—in-depth, thoroughly researched posts on topics your readers care about. ## 4\. Create Infographics on Trending Topics Infographics are visual representations of information, data, or knowledge. They make complex topics easy to understand. Creating infographics on trending topics in your industry or niche is an excellent way to get high-quality backlinks to your new blog. Follow these steps to create linkable infographics: 1. Identify trending topics in your industry by monitoring social media, search engines, news sites, and influencers. See what people are talking about and the questions they’re asking. 2. Do in-depth research on your chosen topic. Gather compelling data, facts, examples, and quotes to include in your infographic. 3. Group related information together. Use visuals like charts, graphs, illustrations, and icons to represent data and concepts. 4. Design an eye-catching and easy-to-read infographic.  5. Publish your infographic on your blog, linking to data sources and studies used. Share it on social media, in forums and groups, and pitch it to industry websites and influencers.  ## 5\. Broken Link Building One of the best ways to [build authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-the-best-guides-to-get-more-leads-traffic-and-sales/) for a new blog is through broken link building. This involves finding broken links on other authoritative sites in your niche and offering to replace that content. To get started, you should: ### Use a Broken Link Checker Tool This tool searches for pages in your niche that return a 404 error.  ### Pitch Your Idea to the Webmaster Once you find some, pitch them your idea for a replacement article. Explain that you have a new blog in the same industry and would be happy to write high-quality content to replace their broken link. ### Create Compelling Article If they accept, write an informative and compelling article to replace their broken link. In your article, use relevant keywords and phrases for their site visitors. You should also include internal links to other posts on your blog to help search engines discover your content. ### Wait Until It’s Published When the new article is published, the linking site will replace its broken link with a link to your article. This gives you a valuable authority link from an established site, which signals to Google that your content is credible and relevant.  ## 6\. Find and Interview Top Influencers  To build authority and credibility for your new blog, focus on influencers in your niche. Reach out to industry leaders and ask for an interview to share their expertise with your readers.  Conducting insightful interviews with influencers is a great way to provide value to your audience. In return, you can also gain valuable backlinks and exposure. To help you find and interview top influencers, follow these tips below: ### Identify Relevant Influencers Look for those with an engaged following, active social media profiles, and a history of being quoted. Check their website and social media bios to ensure their expertise aligns well with your blog’s focus. ### Reach Out and Build a Relationship Don’t go straight to asking for an interview. First, engage with the influencers by following them on social media, commenting on their posts, and sharing their content. This helps to build familiarity and shows you genuinely follow their work.  Once you’ve established a basic relationship, send a personal email introducing yourself and your blog. Express your interest in interviewing them to share their insights with your readers. ### Prepare Thoughtful Questions Do your homework and come prepared with questions leading to valuable answers. Focus on their expertise, lessons they’ve learned, trends they see coming, and advice for others in the industry.  Share the list of questions in advance so they know what to expect. During the actual interview, be ready to ask follow-up questions to capture insightful details. ### Promote the Interview Publish the full interview on your blog and share snippets on social media to increase visibility. Be sure to link to the influencer’s website and social media profiles.  Email them to thank them again for their time and provide links to the published interview. They may also link to it from their profiles, gaining you a high-quality backlink. ## 7\. Advanced Guest Blogging One of the best ways to gain authority links is through [guest blogging](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-posting-services/). This means contributing a blog post to another site in your niche. Many popular blogs accept guest posts and will often link back to your blog in your author bio and the post itself. To get started with advanced guest blogging, you should: ### Find Relevant Blogs Search for blogs in your niche that accept guest posts. Look for those with a high domain authority and lots of traffic. Some ways to find these blogs include: - Searching for “ blogs that accept guest posts” - Checking listings on sites like ProBlogger, BlogDash or MyBlogGuest - Directly contacting blogs you read and respect in your industry ### Pitch Post Ideas Once you’ve identified target blogs, email the editor or blog owner with a pitch for a guest post. Explain who you are, the topic you want to cover, and how it would benefit their readers.  Mention that you’re looking for an authority link back to your blog. Provide a draft of the post or an outline of what you’ll cover. ### Write a High-Quality Post If your pitch is accepted, write an informative and engaging blog post for your target audience. Include relevant images, examples, and links to resources.  Place a link to your blog in your author bio. Request that the blog owner also links to your site in an editor’s note at the end of the post. ### Promote Your Post Share your guest post on social media to increase traffic and gain more authority links. Track any links to your blog, as these help establish your authority. ## 8\. Create Useful Charts & Data Tables Creating useful charts, graphs, and data tables is a great way to build authority for your new blog. Readers and search engines love visual representations of data and statistics.  When you compile information in an easy-to-read format, it establishes you as a knowledgeable and trusted source. To do that, decide how you want to visually represent the data to make it most engaging and impactful for readers.  Some options include: - **Bar graphs**: Compare amounts or values of different groups or periods. Useful for displaying trends over time. - **Pie charts**: Show percentages or proportions of a whole. It helps illustrate parts of a whole concept or topic. - **Line graphs**: Plot the change in a numeric value over time. Great for showing trends and changes over many years or decades. - **Tables**: Organize numbers, statistics, or other data bits in a simple grid format. It is useful when you have many data points to convey. ## 9\. Engage on Social Media Engaging with your audience on social media is one of the best ways to build authority links. Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn make it easy to [connect with industry influencers](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) and build relationships. Below are some of the best tips you can do to leverage your social media: ### Be Active in Relevant Groups Look for Facebook Groups, LinkedIn Groups, and forums related to your niche. Become an active member by posting helpful comments, engaging in discussions, and sharing useful resources.  Some may visit your blog, link to your posts, or invite you as a guest contributor, all of which help establish you as an authority. ### Run Social Media Contests and Giveaways Contests and giveaways are a great way to increase social engagement and gain new followers. Offer a prize related to your niche, like a product, service, or online course.  To enter, people must like your page, follow you, tag a friend, or share one of your posts. This exposes new people to your content and profile.  ### Cross-promote with Other Bloggers Connect with bloggers in a related or complementary niche. Work together to cross-promote each other’s content to your respective audiences.  You can do guest blogging, link to each other’s posts, interview each other, co-host a webinar, or collaborate on an ebook. Cross-promotion is an effective way to tap into new networks and gain authority links from high-ranking sites.  ## Boost Your Blog, Trust the Power of Authority Links As you establish yourself as a knowledgeable and valuable member of your blogging community, you’ll find that authority links start coming to you.  Keep learning, stay passionate about your topic, and don’t get discouraged. With consistency and time, your authority and links will grow.  Like this post? Read some of my other blogs below: - [How to use SEO to Build Your Brand Authority – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/) - [Effective Ways To Boost Your Website’s Domain Authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/effective-ways-to-boost-your-websites-domain-authority/) - [How Does SEO Improve Marketing On The Global Scale](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Reverse Video Search Explained: A Definitive Guide For The Digital Age Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-video-search-explained/ Published: 2024-01-25 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Reverse video search is an important tool in navigating today’s digital landscape. This tool isn’t just for experts; it’s for anyone who seeks to uncover the truth behind videos circulating on the internet. By delving into the mechanics of reverse video search and exploring its various applications, you equip yourself with a valuable skill. From content verification to copyright protection, this guide has unraveled the complexities, allowing you to use this tool effectively. Reverse video search catalyzes authenticity in the digital realm, a tool that empowers individuals to differentiate between fact and fiction. [Videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-go-viral-the-formula-for-creating-viral-videos/) are a common medium of communication, entertainment, and information sharing. Whether you’re a content creator, researcher, journalist, or just a curious individual, sometimes you stumble upon a video that piques your interest. It could be a captivating scene from a movie, a hilarious meme, or thought-provoking content. You might wonder about its source its authenticity, or perhaps you want to explore related content. This situation is where reverse video search comes into play. In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey to understand the significance of reverse video search, how it works, and its practical applications. ## Definition and Structure of Reverse Video Search At its core, reverse video search is taking a video or an image and finding instances of that media across the internet. It’s like conducting an investigative search based on visual content rather than text. To get a clear picture, let’s break it down: For instance, you have a snapshot from a video, say, a scene from a classic movie or a clip that has gone viral. Reverse video search enables you to upload this image, and the search engine then scours its vast database for matches or similar visuals on the web. This process can reveal the original source of the video and other instances where it has been used. ## Purpose and Function of Reverse Video Search Now, you might be wondering, what can you do with this tool in your digital arsenal? Reverse video search serves several purposes and functions, making it an essential component in various domains. ### Finding the Source One of the most common uses of reverse video search is to track down the source of a video.  Let’s say you’ve come across an inspiring video, and you want to know who created it, or perhaps you want to give credit to the original artist. Reverse video search can help you find the source efficiently. ### Unearthing Duplicate Videos For [content creators](https://www.businessinsider.com/top-ways-to-make-money-as-content-creator), there’s nothing worse than someone reproducing your original work without permission. Reverse video search allows you to discover unauthorized duplicates of your content. Once you identify these, you can take the necessary actions, be it asking for credit or requesting the removal of the video. ### Finding the Full Video Sometimes, you might encounter a fascinating video clip, but it’s just a snippet, leaving you curious about the full context. Reverse video search can rescue you, helping you find the complete video. ### Discovering Related Content Reverse video search doesn’t stop at finding the original source. It can also help you explore content related to the video you’re interested in. This source can include similar videos, articles, web pages, or blog posts that feature the video. It’s a great way to find more engaging and relevant content. ## Different Types of Reverse Video Search Reverse video search isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are different categories and use cases, each catering to specific needs. Here are some common types of reverse video search and their applications: ### Copyright Protection [Copyright](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/what-is-copyright/) issues plague the world of digital content. Reverse video search can be a powerful tool for copyright protection. Content creators and owners can use it to track down instances of their videos being used without permission. This tool is particularly important in the age of online video sharing, where unauthorized use is rampant. ### Content Identification In a digital environment where viral videos spread like wildfire, knowing the origins of a video can be vital. Content identification is a common application of reverse video search. This app allows users to trace the roots of a video and understand its context, which is crucial for sharing accurate information. ### Research Researchers and academics benefit from reverse video searches as well. When investigating a particular topic, historical event, or phenomenon, videos can be valuable sources of information. Reverse video search helps them uncover relevant video content to enhance their research. ## Reverse Video Search vs. Traditional Video Search Now, let’s compare reverse video search and traditional video search methods. ### The Advantages Reverse video search has several advantages over traditional text-based video searches: #### 1\. Visual Query Traditional video searches rely on text queries, which may not always provide accurate results. Reverse video search, on the other hand, allows users to start with a visual query. You begin with the image or video, making it easier to find what you’re looking for. #### 2\. Content Verification In an era where fake news and deepfakes are prevalent, content verification is critical. Reverse video search helps you confirm the authenticity of a video by tracing its origins. #### 3\. Visual Content Discovery Reverse video search opens up new possibilities for content discovery. It enables you to find related content, explore different angles of a story, or track down similar videos. ### The Limitations While reverse video search offers many advantages, it’s not without its limitations: #### 1\. Quality Matters The accuracy of a reverse video search is highly dependent on the quality of the original image or video. If the image is of low quality or has undergone significant alterations, it might not yield accurate results. #### 2\. Database Dependency Reverse video search relies on the search engine’s database of images and videos. If the video you’re searching for is not part of this database, your search might be empty. #### 3\. Ongoing Indexing Search engines must continuously index new videos and images to provide up-to-date results. This time-consuming process might result in a lag between a video’s appearance online and its availability for reverse video search. #### 4\. Computing Power The effectiveness of reverse video search is linked to the computing power of the search engine. With the current state of technology, it’s challenging to conduct reverse video searches on a massive scale. You may have to wait for advancements in computing, such as quantum computing, to unleash the potential of this tool fully. ## Reverse Video Search and Its Influence on Digital Content The rise of reverse video search has had a profound impact on the digital content landscape. It serves as a safeguard against the spread of misleading or falsified content. When used effectively, it can also enhance the overall quality and authenticity of digital content. It’s a game-changer for the digital era, helping to restore trust and accuracy in a space where misinformation is prevalent. ## Benefits of Utilizing Reverse Video Search The benefits of integrating reverse video search into your content management and authenticity verification processes are undeniable. Let’s delve into the advantages: ### 1\. Content Verification Reverse video search is a powerful weapon against deepfakes and manipulated videos. It helps users separate fact from fiction. ### 2\. Trust and Engagement By ensuring the content you share is authentic, you can build trust with your audience. Authenticity leads to higher user engagement and retention. ### 3\. Investigative Tool Researchers and journalists rely on reverse video searches to uncover the truth behind viral videos, helping them provide accurate, verified information. ## How to Conduct a Reverse Video Search on Google Google, being the behemoth of the internet, is a prime platform for conducting reverse video searches. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do it: 1\. Begin with a screenshot from the video you want to reverse search. For example, this image. 2\. Next, go to Google Images, click the “search by image” icon in the search bar, and upload the screenshot you saved of the video frame. ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/C3yjO-vAF4Ig0lyXGVdCAhrGNlCcQlV0fqBNO52Tw4qHaMfSB7MZVQRoMSN0QlJjosyPvCphP7yMR2RhDb-TMWgoF2SkE9Tkp3iVk6gjLdtAbBpcSLuVl_LgtZgkL2BkepeAQo2ISHdNVTL1Lm-QYFU) 3\. Upload the video frame’s saved screenshot. To expand to the entire image, you might need to adjust the corners. ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/_dclCTP5dBcmjfB7y-JYKASAhoX_kC-WAYYNZr-M-liC8lZf3FVCiSlW8wV_FUyIP_D_l07PSv2CrXj2YFLUEPsR3gLppY_fDe3myov1jVHisHJDKeML9c-1LFE5EPHuRikmHs5yl8jKp1kU4Yoo-1s) 4\. To view a results list, click “find image source” at the top of the page. The footage was taken from Taylor Swift’s All Too Well music video, according to the results. ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/-bAMzRVukTj7SpWzsWSHrjVI3Tn3MQINVmnoJGYSPODuQVZJS68LN2-AXBSOH3zjiFN99tzoxvuNLtpZtHiN70_S9jgaZf28q9hIWnjhDxN2kXCvj63QNejGaXXlNSpGhMXTGpKb_YeO01bsJ-1K-bU) ## How to Conduct a Reverse Video Search on Bing Like Google, Bing also offers the capability to conduct reverse video searches. Here’s how to do it: - Take a screenshot of the video clip you want to search for. - Open Bing’s Visual Search page. - Upload the screenshot, drag and drop the screenshot, or paste the URL of the image or video in the search box. - Bing will surface results for “related content” that closely matches the image or video. - By mastering these two platforms, Google and Bing, you can unlock a world of information about the videos you encounter. ## Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them As with any digital tool, there are potential pitfalls regarding reverse video search. Here are some common challenges and how to avoid them: ### Quality of the Original Video The quality of the original video or image is crucial. If the source is of low quality or has been heavily edited, it may not yield accurate results. To mitigate this, always aim for high-quality screenshots or video frames. ### New and Unindexed Content If the video you’re searching for is recent or not yet indexed by the search engine or tool, you might not find results. It’s important to understand that not all videos are immediately available for reverse searches. Be patient and allow time for indexing. ### Manipulation of Visuals Remember that video content can be altered, manipulated, or edited. A single pixel change can affect the search results. When using reverse video search, take alterations into account and consider other aspects of the video to confirm its authenticity. ### Database Dependency Different [search engines](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) or tools rely on their databases. If the video or image you’re searching for is not part of their database, you may not find results. To address this, consider using multiple search engines or tools for a broader search. ## Add Reverse Video Search in Your Digital Toolkit Now! Reverse video search has become an indispensable tool in this age. Its ability to trace videos’ origins, verify their authenticity, and uncover related content makes it valuable for various applications. Incorporating reverse video search in your content management strategy is not just about authenticity; it’s about building trust with your audience. Authentic content is more compelling and valuable. If you found this guide on mastering reverse video search insightful, be sure to explore my other articles on digital content and online investigations to expand your expertise in this field: - [How To Fix “Youtube Videos Not Playing”](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-youtube-videos-not-playing/) - [Top Ways To Rank Your YouTube Videos in 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-rank-your-youtube-videos/) - [How To Convert Youtube Videos To Mp3?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-convert-youtube-videos-to-mp3/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The 2026 search-engine leaderboard has rearranged meaningfully:
Google
~88%
Bing
~4%
Yandex
~2.5%
ChatGPT Search
~1.8%
_Statcounter global, Q1 2026. ChatGPT Search hit measurable share for the first time in late 2024 and continues climbing._ For non-Western markets the picture differs: **Yandex** remains dominant in Russia / CIS (~65% share); **Baidu** owns China (~60% share, with Bing as a notable challenger at ~15%). Reverse-image search now has a real native answer inside **ChatGPT (image upload + "find this")** and **Perplexity** — the third-party tools described in older posts are increasingly redundant for most use cases. --- ## How To Find (And Fix) Broken Links Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-find-and-fix-broken-links/ Published: 2024-01-09 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: Scripts ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Fixing broken links is crucial for a good user experience and how well a website does on search engines. Broken links frustrate people visiting the site and mess up how search engines like Google see the site.  They happen for various reasons, like typos in the web addresses or when a website is being moved or is down. Different error codes tell you what type of problem a broken link has. If there are broken links within a website, it can make the site look bad and affect how it appears in search results.  To fix broken links, you can change where they go, correct them, or remove them. It’s important to regularly check and quickly fix these issues to make sure the website works well and is seen as trustworthy. Having broken links on your website is a problem for people who visit your site and how well it appears on search engines. So, knowing how to repair these links to run a successful site is crucial. In this article, I’ll explain why broken links are an issue and why it’s important to fix them. I’ll also share ways to find and fix broken links on your site without making it slower. ## Understanding Broken Links Think of broken links as digital roadblocks—hyperlinks that steer you in the wrong direction, failing to guide you to the intended webpage. These misleading links can pretend to be [backlinks](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-3-backlink-building-strategies/), internal website paths, or connections to other websites. But they all hide similar reasons for their unexpected detours: ### 1\. Misspelled URL If you’ve made a typo or forgot to include “https://” or “http://” in the URL, the link won’t work. Small errors while typing can throw the link off track. ### 2\. Updated URL Imagine you had a page with a wrongly spelled URL and fixed it later. But if you didn’t set up a redirect beforehand, any [links](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-link-building-for-lead-generation-in-2022/) (backlinks or internal links) pointing to the old, incorrect URL will break. This happens when you correct the URL but forget to redirect the old one. Also, if it’s a link to another website, they might have changed the URL of the content you linked to or deleted the page. It’s like the web shifting its streets! Other Common Causes of Broken Links: - **Lost Pages**: In some cases, pages could be lost or renamed during a website migration, leading to broken links. - **Firewall or Geolocation Restrictions**: Links might not be accessible to everyone and could be restricted to specific regions or countries. - **Moved Content:** If the file you linked to, like a video or document, has been removed or relocated, your link to that content will break. - **Malfunctioning Plugins:** Links may misbehave due to faulty plugins on your site or errors in HTML or JavaScript that disrupt elements on the page. - **The Site is Down:** If your site or the site you’re linking to is down, all types of links connected to it won’t work. - **Change in URL Structure:** If you’ve recently changed how your URLs are structured without setting up proper redirects, both internal and inbound links to these pages will break. It’s like rearranging roads without updating the GPS! ## Types of Broken Links When a link is broken, it sends back a 4xx status code, indicating a problem. There are distinct codes, each telling a different story: 1. **404 Page Not Found:** This is the most common error, indicating that the page isn’t available right now, but there’s a chance it might return in the future. 2. **400 Bad Request:** When you see this code, the server can’t comprehend the URL, often due to a mistake in how it is structured or formatted. 3. **410 Gone:** This error is similar to a 404, but it explicitly states that the page is gone for good and will not return. All these errors, be it 404, 400, or 410, have a negative impact on user experience and SEO. However, search engines particularly frown upon 410 errors because they signify that the content is permanently removed. It’s like a closed road with no plans of reopening. ## The Hazards of Broken Links Google highly values internal links, considering them a crucial factor for ranking. Taking care of them is of utmost importance. When [internal links](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pangrow-announces-launch-of-local-seo-services-301887300.html) are broken, they can create a chain reaction on your website. Users who click on a broken link end up on one of those frustrating error pages discussed earlier. You’ve been there—it’s one of the worst experiences when browsing a site, right? Unsurprisingly, this often leads them to leave your website in search of the information they initially sought. Naturally, you never want your site visitors to leave dissatisfied, but the implications could be more damaging than you realize.  A negative encounter might deter them from revisiting your site, tarnishing your reputation. It’s like a ripple effect of bad impressions. ## Broken Links Are Bad for SEO and User Experience [Broken links](https://www.techopedia.com/definition/23236/broken-link) cause problems for your website for a few important reasons. To start, they negatively impact the experience of the people visiting your site.  Imagine clicking on a link expecting interesting content, only to end at a dead end. This is frustrating for visitors, and it’s a strong reason to locate and repair broken links on your website. But broken links annoy humans and frustrate automated systems like search engine crawlers, such as those used by Google. Firstly, they waste the time and resources of these crawlers. Every time a Googlebot encounters a 404 error page due to a broken link, that’s a page they could have explored instead, thus squandering valuable crawling resources. In addition, broken links mean wasted potential for link benefits. For instance, if there’s a broken internal link within one blog post pointing to another, you’re missing out on the SEO advantage the link could have provided, which is detrimental to your SEO efforts. ## How To Find Broken Internal Links Imagine you’re like a website detective whose mission is to hunt down broken links. You can do it in two main ways: “hands-on” and “techy” ways. First up, the “hands-on” way. Imagine you’re exploring a hidden treasure map (your website). You start by looking at every page on your website like a real explorer. Check out all the links on each page: the ones in the menus, the sidebars, the footers, and everywhere a link could be hiding.  Then, you click on each link and see where it takes you. If it goes to the right place, awesome! But you’ve spotted a [broken link](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2022/06/21/five-seo-mistakes-that-can-affect-your-google-ranking-and-how-to-avoid-them/?sh=1f6ec66f7228) if it leads you to a dead end (a.k.a. another website or a weird error page). Now, the “techy” way uses Google Chrome’s superpower tool called “Inspect.” It’s like having a fancy gadget that helps you scan for broken links. You right-click on a page, choose “Inspect,” and a magic window opens. Click on the “Console” tab there, and when you refresh the page, it will show you if any links are misbehaving and can’t find their way (404 errors, to be exact). Voila! A broken link was detected! And here’s the cool part: even more advanced tools out there can do a lot of this detecting work for you. They’re like your trusty sidekicks! You just let them loose on your website, and they’ll scan all the links for you, pointing out any that need fixing. So, whether you’re a hands-on explorer or a tech-savvy detective, there are awesome ways to track down those broken links and [keep your website running smoothly](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/).  ### 1\. Google Analytics This free tool tracks your website’s traffic. You can use it to identify pages on your site that generate 404 errors.  - Log into Google Analytics and navigate to Acquisition > All Traffic > Channels > Organic Search. - Export the list of pages and use Screaming Frog to crawl them.  - Analyze the errors by importing the pages directly from Google Analytics.  This method lets you prioritize fixing internal links based on pages that receive traffic on your site. ### 2\. Google Search Console Another free tool, Google Search Console, lets you track your website’s performance in Google search results. It can also highlight any 404 errors your website has encountered. Log in and go to Crawl > Crawl Errors to view these 404 errors. Using these methods, you can efficiently identify and address broken links on your website, ensuring a smoother user experience. ## How to Repair Broken Links Inside Your Website Once you’ve found links on your site that don’t work, it’s crucial to fix them. Check out these effective ways to do it: ### 1\. Change the link’s path If the link leads to a moved page, you can create a new path so users go to the correct page. This way, visitors end up where they should, which keeps them happy and helps your website’s search engine ranking. ### 2\. Correct the link If there’s a mistake in the URL or the link goes to the wrong place, correct it so it goes to the right spot. This simple fix boosts your website’s search engine visibility and ensures visitors find the content they want. ### 3\. Delete the link Sometimes, it’s best to remove a broken link from your website. This is usually the right move if the linked page has been removed and is no longer around. Removing broken links helps your website stay in good shape. ## Encourage Users to Help Improve Your Website While you can’t catch every broken link, you should strive to find most of them. Occasionally, some might slip through. Broken links negatively impact the user experience. However, you can ask users who come across broken links on your site to let you know. This shows users that you’re committed to providing a user-friendly website. A great way to facilitate this is by designing a custom 404 error page with a contact form. Alternatively, you can offer instructions on reporting a broken link, like providing an email address that users can contact. Your users can play a valuable role in enhancing your website’s functionality. ## Checking and Keeping Your Links in Good Shape As mentioned earlier, broken links can seriously hurt your website. Therefore, it’s important to check for these problems regularly. If you have a large website, checking daily might be a good idea. But for most cases, a weekly check should suffice. It’s often enough to spot new broken links promptly and fix any problems before they negatively impact your rankings and user experience. Regarding your backlinks, it’s essential to regularly assess their quality and confirm if they’re still active. ## It’s Time to Find and Fix Broken Links on your Website! Broken links are a big problem because they can make a website hard to use, bring down its SEO score, and make people doubt its reliability. For people in charge of a website, it’s super important to check for broken links often and fix them as soon as possible. Like this post? Read some other blog posts below: - [Top 3 Backlink Building Strategies in 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-3-backlink-building-strategies/) - [How to Do Link Prospecting for Backlink Building 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-prospecting/#google_vignette) - [Expert ETSY SEO Tips To Drive Traffic To Your Products](https://alejandrorioja.com/etsy-seo-tips-to-drive-traffic-to-your-products/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## My Best Digital Marketing Articles 🚀 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/ Published: 2024-01-06 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: E-commerce, SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: If you work through these guides, you will learn how I currently get over 500,000 organic visitors per month on my blogs, how I scaled Flux Chargers to $110,000/mo in sales and more! ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. New to my blog? Well, nice to meet you! I am [**Alejandro Rioja**](https://alejandrorioja.com), a serial entrepreneur that created Flux Ventures and [Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com/) (among other things such as [Pickleland](https://pickleland.com/), [read more about me](https://alejandrorioja.com/about)). I’ve spent the last 8 years learning all I could about digital marketing and SEO. In this round-up, you will find my **best marketing and growth posts** ever. These are the same techniques I use on my 13 blogs and with my clients that range from small startups to large public companies. I divided each section from beginner to advanced. If you work through these guides, you will learn how I currently get over 500,000 organic visitors per month on my blogs, how I scaled Flux Chargers to $110,000/mo in sales and more! If you are a beginner I suggest you work your way from the top to the bottom. (Bookmark this page for future reference!) If you already have some working knowledge, jump directly to the posts. You should also [subscribe to my newsletter](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/) to learn when I post a new article (I currently don’t sell any courses btw, so no spam ever). If you like these posts please share this page! I’m sure other people in your network will find value in them 🙂 Pro tip: the articles with the 🔥 are the most popular ones. ![](/images/posts/inline/ba5edec0-best-articles.png) ## My most popular posts with more than 1M reads 1. 🔥 [How to increase your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) to 250k/mo 2. ☑️ [How to get verified on Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) 3. [The Highest CPC keywords out there](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) ![](/images/posts/inline/9f86b012-6.png) ## These are my favorite tools 1. Absolute Must Haves - [Canva](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/canva/) (design beautiful things) - [G-suite](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/g-suite/) (for gmail, google drive, etc) - 🔥 [Lastpass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) (don’t use easy passwords ever again!) - [Calendly](https://calendly.com/) (stop wasting time finding times for meetings) - [Slack](http://slack.com) (why use anything else to communicate with your team?) - 🔥 [Raycast](http://raycast.com) (best tool for productivity) - 🔥 [Zapier](https://zapier.com/) (automate your entire work) 2. Outsourcing - [Fiverr](http://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/fiverr) (read my [review](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/)) - 🔥 [Freeup](http://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/freeeup) (way better than Upwork) - 🔥 [Hire me](https://alejandrorioja.com/shop) to outsource your marketing (schedule a [consultation](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/)) 3. Marketers secret weapons (you will have to click on them to find out what they do 🤫) - [SurferSEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseo/) - [Quuu](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/quuu/) - [Rankz](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/rankz/) - [OptinMonster](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/optinmonster/) - [Manychat](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/manychat/) - [Clearbit](https://clearbit.com/) - [Optimizely](https://www.optimizely.com/) 4. Ecommerce Tools - [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) - 🔥 [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) - Read my list of the [best e-commerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) 5. SEO tools - I’m an [Ahrefs](http://ahrefs.com/) junkie, but can’t go wrong with [SEMrush](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/semrush/) either. 6. Productivity - 🔥 [Airtable](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/airtable/) - 🔥 [Coda](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/coda/) (I write the tutorials for my VAs here) - [Google Data Studio](https://datastudio.google.com/) (for making better analysis of data) – works amazingly with [Supermetrics](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/supermetrics/) 7. Hosting (trust me, I tried them all. I’m currently on Cloudways) - [Bluehost](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bluehost/) (ok, cheap) - [Sitegound](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground-managed-wordpress/) (decent for people just starting out) - [Cloudways](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/cloudways/) (better, premium) - [Kinsta](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/kinsta/) (best for managed wordpress, top of the line) 8. Speed up your site - [WPRocket](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wprocket/) - [BunnyCDN](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bunnycdn/) ( a Content Delivery Network to make your content load fast) 9. Others - Website Builders - 🔥 Get [themes from Envato](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/envato-elements/) - [Webflow](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/webflow/) (if you want to impress your friends) - [WordPress](http://wordpress.org/) (what I use on my sites given the millions of plugins available) - [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) (if you want something simple with 0 technical knowledge) - WordPress Page Builders - [BeaverBuilder](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/beaverbuilder/) - [Elementor](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/elementor/) - [WP Bakery Builder](https://wpbakery.com/) (the one I’m using on this site) - Monetize your ads better - [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) - [Infolinks](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/infolinks/) - [Media.Net](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/medianet/) ![](/images/posts/inline/3eab6e47-1.png) ## Best SEO Articles 1. [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) - [What is Google RankBrain?](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) 2. [On-Page SEO Factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) 3. [Off-Page SEO Factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) 4. [How to do keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/)  5. [A list of SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - Get [SEMRush](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/semrush/) (discount included) 6. 🔥 [How to do SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - Other [white hat SEO strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) 7. Others - [Google Voice SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/)  - [Link Building Strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) - [How to increase your Alexa rank](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/) - 🔥 [The best paying Adsense keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) ![](/images/posts/inline/825d987e-4.png) ## Best E-commerce Guides 1. [How to Setup Your First E-commerce Store](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) 2. [Which Ecommerce Platform to Pick?](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) 3. 🔥 [How to make a million dollars with your e-commerce store](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) 4. How to rank on Amazon: [Amazon SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/) ![](/images/posts/inline/93b28b6f-2.png) ## My Favorite Social Media Tricks 1. 🔥 [How to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) 2. [Twitter scripts for growth](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) 3. Verifications - [How to get verified on Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) - [How to get verified on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) 4. [Get more Snapchat followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) 5. [Youtube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/)  6. [IG instagram caption ideas](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-instagram-captions/) ### Random Facebook tricks 1. 🔥 [Invite all your friends to like a page on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) 2. [How to change your FB page name](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-change-your-facebook-page-name/) 3. [How to delete/deactivate your Facebook/Messenger](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) 4. [Reverse image search on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-image-search-on-google-facebook-pinterest/) ![](/images/posts/inline/aa79e2b6-5.png) ## My Best Business & Mindset articles 1. 🔥 [How to be a productive machine](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/)  2. [How to Pick a Niche](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_us_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7) 3. 🔥 [How to Scale Your Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/)  - [How to cultivate a great company culture](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/59dce43de4b0eff47839ffc7) - [2 ingredients to start your company: Attitude and Will](https://www.inc.com/young-entrepreneur-council/why-attitude-will-are-all-you-need-to-launch-a-company.html) 4. 🔥 [How to Sell Anything](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) 5. [How to get written up on Forbes, Mashable and Huffington Post](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) - [How to engage with writers](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/) ## How Startups make money If you have a startup (or are thinking of starting one!), I think it’s very useful to understand the monetization models of other startups, that way you can learn how to take yours to profitability! Here are my favorite ones: 1. [Facebook’s monetization strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) 2. [How does Google make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) 3. This just in: [Snapchat is in trouble](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) 4. [Instagram’s revenue model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/)  5. [Robinhood’s $0 trades model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/) 6. [Whatsapp’s data is worth $19B](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/)  7. [Discord money making plans](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/) 8. [Pinterest revenue model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-pinterest-make-money/) 9. [Twitter’s revenue strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-twitter-make-money/) If you liked these articles, leave a comment below or [message me on FB](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) and tell me which article I should write next! Feel free to connect with me on any social media (send me a short message telling me where you found me!) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Inside Google Project Magi: A Futuristic Technology Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/inside-google-project-magi/ Published: 2023-12-27 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: SEO TL;DR: As tech giants race to develop groundbreaking AI, Google is working on something big. Project Magi is shrouded in secrecy but aims to push the boundaries of natural language processing and truly intelligent systems. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Google Project Magi, introduced in May 2023, represents Google’s pioneering venture into AI-driven search engines. The project’s core objective is to decipher user intent efficiently, offering valuable results for intricate and abstract inquiries.  In essence, Google Project Magi marks a pivotal stride towards revolutionizing the search engine landscape. By harnessing the capabilities of AI, it seeks to provide a more intuitive and insightful online search experience. As tech giants race to develop groundbreaking AI, Google is working on something big. Project Magi is shrouded in secrecy but aims to push the boundaries of natural language processing and truly intelligent systems.  But what exactly is Project Magi, and how will it impact you? This article provides an overview of everything I know about this ambitious and potentially transformative project.  ## What is Google Project Magi? Google Project Magi is an ambitious AI-powered search engine currently in development.  Initially [launched in May 2023](https://www.intelligentreach.com/news/ecommerce-news/what-is-google-project-magi-ecommerce/#:~:text=to%20think%20about.-,When%20does%20Project%20Magi%20launch?,be%20released%20in%20Q4%202023.), Project Magi aims to understand user intent and provide the most useful results, even for complex or abstract queries. It utilizes advanced natural language processing and machine learning to gain a deeper grasp of context and semantic meaning. If successful, Project Magi’s AI-based search could provide faster, more relevant results tailored to each user. The project signifies Google’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI and improving people’s digital experiences. ## How Does This New Google Search Work? Though the technology behind Project Magi is still experimental, it could eventually transform how you get information online. Check out some of its included techniques:  ### Machine Learning (ML) [Machine learning](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/) is a method of data analysis that automates analytical model building. In Project Magi, the ML models detect complex patterns in huge datasets to reveal hidden relationships and make predictions. This lets businesses optimize processes, lessen costs, and better understand their customers. ### Deep Learning (DL) Deep Learning is a type of machine learning that uses neural networks modeled after the human brain. DL algorithms use huge amounts of data to learn complex patterns in the data automatically. The more data they analyze, the more accurate they become. DL powers many daily technologies, including facial recognition, speech recognition, machine translation, and social network filtering. Some of the major DL models used by Google include: - **Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs):** analyze visual imagery - **Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs):** analyze sequential data like speech, text, and video - **Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs):** generate synthetic images, videos, speech, and text ### Natural Language Processing (NLP) [Natural Language Processing](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/natural-language-processing-nlp-market-worth-68-1-billion-by-2028---exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-301935887.html), or NLP, is a branch of artificial intelligence that deals with the interaction between computers and humans using the natural language.  NLP enables computers to analyze, comprehend, and extract meaning from human language. It powers various AI technologies today, including chatbots, machine translation, speech recognition, and more. ## Benefits of Using Google Project Magi Google Project Magi offers several advantages for both users and businesses: ### 1\. Personalized Search Results Google collects information about your previous searches and the results you clicked on to understand your needs and interests better. Your search history is connected to your Google account and helps Google provide more tailored search results. For example, you frequently search for gardening information or the latest scientific discoveries. In that case, when you search broadly, Google may provide more results related to those topics at the top of the page.  ### 2\. Conversational Search Google’s goal with Project Magi is to produce AI systems that can comprehend people’s questions, have enthralling conversations, and provide helpful information to users.  [Conversational Search](https://www.forbes.com/sites/danielnewman/2023/04/25/the-race-continues-google-search-set-to-be-backed-by-conversational-ai/?sh=6e8e092d18e5) is one aspect of this. It gives people a more intuitive way to explore and get things done on Google. ### 3\. Visual Search Google Project Magi’s visual search lets you search for images, objects, or scenes within images. You can upload an image or specify an [image URL](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-image-enhancer-tools/), and the AI will detect diverse objects, scenes, and concepts within the image. The results page will show: - Similar images from across the web. - Information about the objects, scenes, and concepts detected in your image. ### 4\. More Accurate and Relevant Results Project Magi uses neural networks and knowledge graphs to understand better the meaning and relationships between words, phrases, and concepts on the web.  This allows Google to grasp the context and intent behind search queries, providing results that are more relevant to what the user is looking for.  For example, if you search for “apple,” Google can determine whether you mean the tech company or the fruit based on the context and provide results accordingly. ## Limitations of Google Project Magi Project Magi has some key limitations to keep in mind: ### 1\. Still in Development Google Project Magi is still in development, with many details yet to be announced. However, this advanced AI also poses risks like generating synthetic media for misinformation or “deepfakes.”  While Project Magi is still shrouded in secrecy, its possibilities are exciting and concerning. As with any powerful new technology, it will come down to how you choose to apply it. ### 2\. Not Available to Everyone Project Magi is currently only available to Google employees and select partners. The general public does not have access to this AI system.  Google wants to keep Project Magi internal to continue improving and optimizing the technology before making it widely available. Releasing an immature system could lead to issues with biased or unreliable results. ### 3\. May Raise Privacy Concerns With access to people’s search histories, emails, locations, and more, the system may gain insights into users’ lives that some find unsettling.  However, Google has stated that users’ information will be kept private and secure. The company says data used to build and improve Magi will be anonymized, meaning users’ details are removed.  ## Strategies to Keep Up with Project Magi To stay on the cutting edge of Google’s Project Magi, an AI-based customer service platform, focus on these strategies: ### 1\. Have a Strong Domain Authority To rank well in Google, your website needs authority. Here’s how you should do it: #### Publish Regularly Post new content at least once a week or every other week. This keeps your site fresh in the eyes of search engines and readers.  Over time, the more content you publish, the greater your authority becomes. #### Optimize Content Use important keywords in your page titles, headings, and content. Place keywords naturally and avoid overstuffing. [Optimize your content](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-features-to-look-for-in-keyword-research-tools/) for both search engines and readers. #### Promote Your Content Share your content on social media to increase traffic and backlinks. Guest post on other industry sites and ask them to link back to your content in return.  Participate in your industry’s forums and groups, providing value to others.  #### Build Quality Backlinks Reach out to other sites and ask them to link to your content if it’s relevant and useful to their readers.  Focus on links from authoritative sites in your niche. These quality links pass “authority” to your site, which search engines reward. ### 2\. Create High-Quality Content To create high-quality content for your website or blog, focus on the following tips: #### Do Thorough Research Research your topic thoroughly using reputable sources. Find statistics, expert opinions, and facts to support key points. Cite sources when using data or quotes. #### Structure Your Content Organize your content logically with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Use headings and subheadings to break up sections and make the content easy to navigate.  #### Write for Your Audience Consider your target audience and write to their level of understanding using straightforward language and avoiding jargon. Explain concepts and terms that may be unfamiliar to readers. #### Be Authentic and Personable Write in a genuine, friendly tone as if speaking with a friend. Use “you” and “we” to help readers feel included. Share relevant personal stories and experiences when appropriate to connect with your audience. #### Check for Accuracy Double-check that your content’s facts, statistics, quotes, and other details are accurate before publishing. Correct any grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors. ### 3\. Optimize Content for Images and Videos To optimize your content for images and videos in Project Magi, follow these tips: #### Use Alt Text All images include alt text, which describes the image for visually impaired readers and search engines.  Keep alt text concise at 125 characters or less. This helps Google understand your image and rank it higher in image search results. #### Choose High-Quality Media Select high-resolution, eye-catching images and videos relevant to your content. Stock photos and videos should feature natural lighting and composition. Original media is best if you have the means to create it.  #### Use Descriptive Captions Write captions for each image and video to give context to viewers and help search engines interpret the media.  Captions should be full sentences describing the scene or explaining the significance and relationship to the topic.  #### Embed Responsively Embed images, videos, tweets, and other media responsively to display well on all devices.  Use the correct embed code from each media source and ensure it is placed within your content at full width. This optimizes the user experience and search engine optimization. #### Link to Sources When using media from external sources, always provide a link back to the original creator or source. This gives proper credit and also passes some authority to your page.  ### 4\. Be Updated to Latest Developments To stay on top of the latest with Project Magi, here are some tips: #### Follow Google’s Blog Google periodically posts updates on Project Magi on its blog. Subscribe to the Google Blog to get the latest news delivered. Google will announce new features, provide demos, and share their progress. #### Watch Google I/O Google’s annual I/O developer conference is where Google often chooses to unveil its latest innovations.  Project Magi has been featured at Google I/O before, so there is a good chance Google will highlight new developments again at future conferences.  #### Experiment with New Features As Google rolls out new capabilities and updates to Project Magi, the best way to see them in action is to try them out yourself.  Sign up for early access to new features through Google’s developer portal. Build models, test APIs, and see firsthand how Project Magi is evolving and improving. ## What Jobs Will Be Created by Google Magi? As the project progresses, Google will need to hire more staff with experience in AI and software engineering. Some potential new roles include: ### AI Research The goal of Project Magi is to eventually develop AI that matches human intelligence and has a broad, flexible range of cognitive skills. Rather than narrow AI designed for specific, limited tasks, the researchers aim to build artificial general intelligence or “AGI.” While still in the early stages, Project Magi is exploring self-supervised, transfer, and multi-task learning to develop AI that can perceive, reason about, and interact with the real world.  ### Data Science Project Magi provides data scientists with various tools and features to help with data preprocessing, exploration, and modeling. Some of the major capabilities include: - **Data wrangling:** Cleaning, transforming, and restructuring data. - **Exploratory data analysis:** Quickly analyzing data to find patterns and insights.  - **Machine learning:** Build and train machine learning models with algorithms like logistic regression, decision trees, neural networks, etc. - **Model evaluation:** Evaluate model performance and accuracy with metrics such as precision, recall, F1 score, mean squared error, etc. - **Workflow management:** Easily keep track of data, models, experiments, and results in an organized project workflow. ## Technology Future with Google Project Magi While many details remain unclear, it is evident that Google has ambitious plans for augmented reality technology. By leveraging their expertise in artificial intelligence, Google aims to transform how we interact with and experience the digital world.  If Project Magi is successful, it could become a foundational platform that reshapes consumer technology and daily life as we know it. Though the future remains uncertain, one thing is clear – Google is poised to change the game again through innovative new technology.  The possibilities seem endless, so stay tuned as this exciting story unfolds. Like this post? Read some other blog posts below: - [What Is Google Currents? A Comprehensive Guide to Features, Alternatives, and More – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-google-currents-a-comprehensive-guide-to-features-alternatives-and-more/) - [8 Commonly Misinterpreted Metrics in Google Analytics (And How to Set Them Straight)](https://alejandrorioja.com/8-commonly-misinterpreted-metrics-in-google-analytics/) - [What You Should Know About Google Top Ranking Factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-you-should-know-about-google-top-ranking-factors/)    Don’t forget to leave comments below! --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Proven Ways To Generate New Content Ideas Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/proven-ways-to-generate-new-content-ideas/ Published: 2023-11-30 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: Marketing, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line For those who love to read and create, finding fresh ideas for content is a constant pursuit. Generating engaging content can be tough, but using the right strategies ensures you’ll never be short of topics.  The key is using various methods, not just one. Keep exploring, stay curious, and continuously learn about your field. With an open mind, you’ll have endless ideas to write about. As an avid reader and creator, you’re always searching for new and fresh ideas to write about. Creating a constant stream of content ideas that inspire and engage your audience can be challenging.  However, with the right strategies and techniques, you’ll never run out of topics to cover. In this article, you’ll discover proven ways to uncover new content ideas to keep your audience returning for more. ## 1\. Scour Social Media Social networks are chock-full of inspiration if you know where to look. They are hubs of discussions, trends, and user-generated content that can spark creativity. Here’s how you can effectively use social media to discover new content ideas: ### Follow Relevant Accounts Start by following accounts that are relevant to your niche or industry. These could include influencers, brands, [thought leaders](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/04/19/what-it-really-means-and-takes-to-become-a-thought-leader/), and even competitors. Their posts and discussions can provide insights into trending topics and popular conversations. ### Monitor Hashtags Keep an eye on trending hashtags related to your field. These hashtags can indicate current trends, challenges, and discussions your audience engages in.  ### Engage in Discussions Engage with comments, replies, and discussions on social media. This helps you understand what your audience is interested in and allows you to participate in conversations and gather valuable insights. ### Analyze Popular Posts Take note of posts with high engagement rates, likes, shares, and comments. These posts indicate what resonates with your audience; you can create your unique take on those topics. ## 2\. Check Out Competitor Sites Studying competitors is one of the best ways to get inspiration and discover new content opportunities. Tools like SEMRush and Similarweb allow you to evaluate your competitors’ content and performance. ### SEMRush This widely used SEO tool offers competitor [analysis features](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/) to help you understand competitors’ strategies and strengths. You can see what keywords they are targeting, the content they are creating, and how they are promoting their content.  ### Similarweb Similarweb’s tools enable you to [benchmark your competitors’ websites](https://backlinko.com/hub/content/similarweb) and digital performance against your own and identify the channels with the highest impact. See the most popular content formats (e.g., blogs, videos, ebooks) and topics.  With research and creativity, you can develop exciting new content that provides value to your audience. ## 3\. Google Search Suggestions Google Search provides helpful suggestions as you type in the search bar.  As you start typing in the Google search box, a dropdown menu will appear with [suggested searches](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-features-to-look-for-in-keyword-research-tools/) to complete your query. These are based on common searches by other users.  The autocomplete results can reveal questions people frequently ask or topics they are interested in related to your content. For example, if you blog about gardening, start typing “how to go,” and you may see: - How to grow tomatoes - How to grow herbs - How to grow orchids Any of these could make an excellent blog post topic. The suggested searches indicate people are interested in learning how to cultivate those particular plants. ## 4\. Use a Topic Generator Platform Using a topic generator platform makes it easy to discover new content ideas. These tools deliver topic suggestions based on keywords, questions, and trends.  HubSpot’s Blog Topic Generator and Portent’s Content Idea Generator are two popular options. ### HubSpot’s Blog Topic Generator This provides blog post titles and topic ideas based on a keyword or phrase. You enter a keyword like “content marketing,” the tool instantly generates dozens of suggested blog post topics and titles.  It gives you ideas for lists, how-to, and opinion posts. The suggested topics include a post title and a short description to get you started.  ### Portent’s Content Idea Generator This is another useful free tool. You enter a keyword or topic and specify the type of content you want to create (blog post, social media post, email newsletter, etc.).  The tool provides a list of suggested content ideas related to your topic. It gives a suggested headline and a summary for each idea. ## 5\. Visit Online Forums Online forums are virtual communities where people discuss shared interests and passions. Visiting popular forums in your niche can uncover new content ideas and keep you on the pulse of trending topics. Search for forums related to your content area. Look for high-traffic forums with recent activity. Some indicators of an active forum are: - Lots of members (10,000+) and new posts daily - Recent replies and discussions, not just old archived threads - A variety of broad categories and more specific subforums ## 6\. Try UberSuggest [UberSuggest](https://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/news/theexpresswire/search-engine-optimization-seo-market-share-size-and-forecast-to-2030-semrush-ubersuggest-yoast-seo-110-pages-report) is a free keyword research tool that can help generate content and keyword ideas. It offers a Content Ideas report that provides an overview of keyword research.  The Content Ideas report provides an overview of potential content ideas based on keyword research. To access the report: 1. Enter a seed keyword or topic into the UberSuggest search bar. This will return suggested keywords and search volume data. 2. Click the “Content Ideas” tab. This will show content ideas related to your seed keyword, including questions people are asking, comparisons, lists, how-tos, and more. 3. Review the content ideas and choose the options you want to create content around. The report provides the search volume and keyword competitiveness to help determine the best options. 4. Click on a specific content idea to see suggested titles, outlines, and keyword ideas to help get you started. Aside from that, the FAQ content ideas can highlight your target audience’s questions about a topic. Creating content that answers these questions is a great way to provide value to your readers. Some tips for finding FAQ opportunities: 1. Look for questions with high search volume, indicating many people are asking that question. 2. Choose questions that you can provide a helpful, in-depth answer to. Basic questions may not warrant an entire blog post. 3. Group related questions together into one comprehensive FAQ post. This provides more value to readers and is easier to rank than several short posts. 4. Use the question as your post title and H1 header to signal you are answering that question. Then, provide a detailed answer in the post content. ## Why Creating New Content Matters Creating new content for your website has significant benefits. Here are a few reasons why generating original content matters: ### 1\. Informs Your Audience Publishing useful content, like blog posts, videos, and social media updates, educates your audience about your products, services, and industry. It establishes you as a helpful resource for information and solutions. The more you publish, the more opportunities you have to address common questions, share tips, and build trust. ### 2\. Ranks in Google Creating new, original content for your website is essential for ranking well in Google search results. When Google’s algorithm determines how to rank websites in search results, one of the top factors it considers is the freshness and uniqueness of the content. To know more about it, here are some reasons: #### Improves Keyword Ranking Including important keywords related to your content topic naturally helps Google determine what your page is about. As you publish more content that includes these keywords over time, your ranking for those terms in Google will improve.  #### Builds Authority Publishing high-quality, informative content consistently establishes you as an authority in your content area. When people search for information related to your content topic, your site will be among the first results.  The more in-depth, well-researched content you have, the more authoritative your site becomes. Readers will come to trust you as a reliable source of information. #### Provides Value to Readers Publishing new, informative content regularly shows Google that your site is actively providing value to readers. If you haven’t updated your content in months or years, Google assumes the information may be outdated or irrelevant.  New, well-researched content also gives readers a reason to return to your site repeatedly. ### 3\. Earns Links From Other Sites Link building takes time and effort, but here are some of the top ways to get high-quality links pointing to your content: #### Guest Blogging Pitching guest posts to industry blogs and websites is an effective way to earn do-follow links. Identify sites that publish content similar to yours and pitch them unique article ideas that would benefit their readers.  #### Roundups Roundup posts curating the best resources or tools on a topic are popular. Pitch the editors of industry blogs and offer to create a roundup of the best content in your niche. These types of posts often gain a lot of traction and links. #### Infographics Share custom infographics on your topic with other sites. Editors often seek visual content to share so a high-quality infographic can easily get featured. #### Resource Lists Reach out to anyone on the list and inform them about the mention. They will likely link to it in appreciation of being featured. These posts rank well and bring in a lot of referral traffic. ### 4\. Shareable on Social Media Sharing your content on social media is one of the best ways to find new content ideas and reach more readers. Look for topics trending on the major social platforms to get inspiration. These platforms include: #### Twitter Twitter’s trending hashtags and topics are a goldmine for discovering what’s popular and gaining audience traction. Search for industry-related hashtags or check out the Trending page. Some examples of evergreen content ideas from trending topics include: - Explainers on news stories or events - “What is…” guides on popular technologies, platforms, or concepts - Roundups of the best tweet accounts to follow or threads on a trending topic #### Facebook On Facebook, [explore trending pages](https://alejandrorioja.com/7-easy-steps-of-making-money-from-facebook-a-beginners-guide/), groups, events, and stories. Monitor comments and shares on trending posts from industry influencers and media brands. Some shareable content ideas include: - Listicles like “10 Ways to…” or “The Top 5…” - Infographics presenting research, statistics, or “did you know” facts - Behind-the-scenes photos, videos or stories #### LinkedIn LinkedIn’s trending content section highlights your industry’s popular discussions and news stories. Engage with the comments and see what posts get the most shares and reactions. Possible content ideas include: - Opinion or advice posts on trending work or career topics - Curated lists of the most useful or insightful comments and discussions - Video summaries or reactions to trending news, reports, or events Monitoring social media is a habit that fuels a constant stream of new content ideas. Paying attention to trending topics and discussions helps ensure you create content that resonates and is widely shared.  ## Wrap It Up Whether mining social media and online communities or surveying your audience, consistently applying techniques will yield a steady stream of inspiration. The key is not relying on any single method but diversifying your sources.  Keep exploring and stay curious about your industry and areas of expertise. Strong, valuable content comes from continually learning and expanding your knowledge.  With an open and curious mindset, you’ll have ideas or topics to write about. Keep digging, and you’ll keep discovering. Like this post? Read some of my past blogs below: - [How To Write Pillar Content: A Step By Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/) - [SEO Content Tool: In-depth Review Of Clearscope 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/clearscope-review/) - [What Is Content Gap Analysis And How To Do It?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-content-gap-analysis-and-how-to-do-it/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Are Google Certificates Worth Your Career Investment? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/are-google-certificates-worth-your-career-investment/ Published: 2023-11-14 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: Productivity TL;DR: One name that stands out in the world of digital skills is Google. The tech giant offers a range of certificates in various fields, promising to equip learners with the expertise needed to excel. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Google Certificates offer valuable pathways to gaining practical skills and enhancing career prospects, especially for those seeking quick skill acquisition and entry into the tech industry. They provide affordability, flexibility, and industry recognition. But their value depends on your goals, industry expectations, and commitment to continuous learning. While Google Certificates may not replace traditional degrees, they can be a powerful tool for career changers, skill enhancers, and individuals aiming to enter the competitive tech field. To make the most of Google Certificates, research your chosen industry’s requirements, stay adaptable in a rapidly changing job market, and combine certificate achievements with a dedication to ongoing learning. Obtaining the right skills is crucial for career success. With technology constantly evolving, many individuals turn to online courses and certifications to stay competitive in the job market. One name that stands out in the world of digital skills is Google. The tech giant offers a range of certificates in various fields, promising to equip learners with the expertise needed to excel. But the question remains: Are Google Certificates worth it? In this article, you will learn more about Google Certificates, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and overall venue. ## Understanding Google Certificates Google Certificates are online courses designed to provide learners with practical skills in areas such as: - Data analysis - Project management - User experience (UX) design - IT support These courses are self-paced and can typically be completed within a few months. One of the standout features of Google Certificates is their accessibility. These programs are open to everyone, regardless of prior experience or educational background. ## Google Career Certificate Programs Google offers a variety of Career Certificate Programs through their Grow with Google initiative. These programs provide practical skills and training in high-demand fields to help individuals kickstart or advance their careers. Typically, online learning platforms like Coursera offer Google Career Certificate Programs. They consist of courses that cover specific topics related to the respective field. Upon completion, learners receive a certificate that can be added to their resumes and LinkedIn profiles. Currently, Google Career Certificate Programs include: ### Data Analytics Professional Certificate This program covers foundational data skills, including visualization, analysis, and cleaning. It’s aimed at individuals looking to start a career in [data analysis](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/) or related fields. ### Project Management Professional Certificate You should take this certificate to improve your project management skills, including planning, execution, and communication. ### UX Design Professional Certificate This program teaches the fundamentals of [user experience (UX) design](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2023/04/18/enhancing-search-engine-rankings-in-2023-the-crucial-role-of-ux-design-and-fresh-content/), covering topics like design research, prototyping, and usability testing. It’s ideal for individuals aspiring to become UX designers or enhance their design skills. ### IT Support Professional Certificate Getting this certificate will help you improve your skills in IT support, such as computer networking, operating systems, system administration, and customer service. ### Automation with Python Professional Certificate This certificate program focuses on teaching programming and automation skills using [Python](https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomtaulli/2020/07/24/python-language-what-you-need-to-know/). It suits individuals interested in scripting, automation, and programming tasks. ### Professional Certificate in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence The Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence program covers the fundamentals of machine learning and AI, including algorithms, data preprocessing, and model evaluation. It’s designed for those interested in machine learning and AI-related roles. ### Professional IT Certificate – Entry-Level IT Job Training This program is designed to prepare individuals for entry-level IT support roles. It covers IT fundamentals, operating systems, networking, and security. ### Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate If you want to maximize your Python skills, this program will help you focus on teaching automation and programming skills using Python in IT operations. ### Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate This program is designed to provide learners with the skills and knowledge needed to start a career in the field of cybersecurity. The certificate aims to bridge the skills gap in the cybersecurity industry and help individuals develop practical skills that are in high demand. ## Benefits of Google Certificates Google Certificates offer a range of benefits that make them a compelling option for individuals seeking to acquire practical skills and enhance their career prospects. Here are the pros of pursuing Google Certificates: ### 1\. Affordability One of the most significant advantages of Google Certificates is their affordability. Traditional higher education can be expensive, and many people seek cost-effective alternatives to upskill or change careers. Google Certificates are priced considerably lower than traditional degrees, making them accessible to a broader range of individuals. ### 2\. Flexibility Pursuing Google Certificates is right if you want the flexibility to learn at your own pace. This feature is especially beneficial for those currently employed or with other commitments. Learners can access course materials and complete assignments whenever they fit into their schedules. ### 3\. Practical Skills Taking any of these certificates will help you focus on providing practical, job-ready skills. Rather than spending years studying theory, learners can acquire skills directly applicable to real-world situations. This opportunity can particularly appeal to individuals who want to transition into a new career swiftly. ### 4\. Industry Recognition Google is a well-respected name in the tech industry. A Google Certificate can signal potential employers that you have received training from a reputable source. This certification can be especially valuable for those looking to enter competitive fields where hands-on skills are highly regarded. ### 5\. Speedy Completion Unlike traditional degrees that take several years, Google Certificates can often be finished in months. This timeframe means that learners can quickly gain new skills and start applying for jobs sooner. ### 6\. Diverse Range of Fields Google offers certificates in various fields, catering to interests and career goals. From IT support to digital marketing, there’s likely a certificate that aligns with your aspirations. ## Drawbacks and Considerations While Google Certificates offer numerous advantages, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks. These issues may include the following: ### 1\. Lack of Depth While Google Certificates provide practical skills, they may lack the depth and breadth of knowledge that a full degree program can offer. Traditional degrees often include a more comprehensive understanding of theoretical concepts and background information. ### 2\. Limited Networking One of the benefits of traditional education is the networking opportunities it provides. Google Certificates are primarily online, which means you might miss out on in-person networking events and interactions with peers and professors. ### 3\. Changing Industry Perception While Google Certificates are gaining recognition, there may still be industries or employers that place a higher value on traditional degrees. The perception of online certificates varies across sectors and regions. ### 4\. Self-Motivation Required The flexibility of online learning can be a double-edged sword. Without a structured class environment, learners must be self-motivated to complete the coursework and assignments. ### 5\. Rapid Technological Changes Nowadays, the tech industry evolves quickly, and the skills learned through Google Certificates could become outdated in a relatively short period. It’s important to supplement your learning with continuous self-education to stay current. ## Who Can Benefit the Most From Obtaining Google Certificates The value of Google Certificates largely depends on your individual goals, circumstances, and the industry you’re targeting. Here are those who might benefit the most from these certificates: ### Career Changers Google Certificates can be a valuable option if you want to switch careers and acquire new skills quickly. They provide practical skills that can make you job-ready in a relatively short time. ### Skill Enhancement Suppose you’re already working in a specific field but want to enhance your skill set. In that case, Google Certificates can help you acquire new skills without the time and financial commitment of a traditional degree. ### Entry-Level Positions Google Certificates can be a great way to qualify for entry-level positions in various industries. Many entry-level roles prioritize practical skills over formal degrees, and holding a Google Certificate can give you a competitive edge. ### Tech Industry For those interested in the tech industry, Google Certificates carry more weight due to Google’s reputation. Tech roles often prioritize practical skills and experience, making these certificates a strong asset. ### Practical Learners If you learn best through hands-on experience, Google Certificates can provide the practical training you need to succeed. ## How to Get a Google Certification? Getting a [Google certification](https://alejandrorioja.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-google-certifications/) involves completing an online training program offered by Google. These programs, often hosted on platforms, are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge in various fields. Here’s a general guide on how to get a Google Certificate: - **Choose a Certificate Program:** Select the Google Certificate program that aligns with your interests and career goals. You can choose from areas like digital marketing, data analytics, project management, IT support, and more. - **Access the Platform:** If the certificate program is hosted on Coursera, Udacity, or Google platforms, create an account or log in if you already have one. - **Enroll in the Program:** Enroll in the Google Certificate program of your choice. Some programs may require payment, while others offer financial aid or scholarships. - **Complete the Courses:** Google Certificate programs consist of online courses. Complete the courses independently, working through the lessons and assignments. - **Engage with Practical Exercises:** Many Google Certificate programs include hands-on exercises, projects, and quizzes that allow you to apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios. - **Participate in Peer Interaction (if applicable):** Some platforms encourage learners to participate in discussion forums or peer interaction, providing opportunities to learn from others and share insights. - **Study and Review:** Review the course materials to reinforce your understanding of the concepts. - **Complete Assessments:** Some programs may include quizzes or assessments to test your understanding of the material. Completing these assessments is often a requirement for earning the certificate. - **Earning the Certificate:** Once you’ve completed all the required courses, assignments, and assessments, you will earn the Google Certificate. - **Receive Your Certificate:** You will receive a digital certificate of completion to add to your resume, LinkedIn profile, and other professional platforms. - **Stay Updated:** Continuously expand your skills and stay updated in your chosen field. Technology and practices evolve, so ongoing learning is key to maintaining your expertise. ## Level Up Your Career With Google Certificates Google Certificates can be a valuable tool for career advancement and skill acquisition, particularly for those looking to enter the tech industry or switch careers. They offer a flexible and affordable way to gain practical skills that can make you more competitive in the job market.  However, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits against potential drawbacks and to ensure that your chosen certificates align with your long-term career goals. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, embracing opportunities for upskilling and reskilling will be essential for staying relevant and successful in your chosen field. So, if you want to learn more about the current digital trends in Google, you may want to check out these articles: - [8 Commonly Misinterpreted Metrics in Google Analytics (And How to Set Them Straight)](https://alejandrorioja.com/8-commonly-misinterpreted-metrics-in-google-analytics/) - [What Is Google Currents? A Comprehensive Overview](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-google-currents-a-comprehensive-overview/) - [A Complete Guide To Google Search Console](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-complete-guide-to-google-search-console/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Discovering Yandex: Everything You Need To Know Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-yandex/ Published: 2023-10-30 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Yandex is the dominant search engine in Russia, claiming over 63% of the search market compared to Google’s 45%. Its algorithms are tailored to Russian users, providing superior results for queries in the Russian language. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Yandex is a big search engine in Russia, but many don’t know what it is. Starting in 1997, it expanded to more than search, like e-commerce and transport. Founded by Arkady Volozh, it became Yandex Inc. in 2000 in Moscow. While Google is big everywhere, Yandex is huge in Russia. Their language skills and local approach make them key to Russia’s internet. As the largest search engine in Russia, Yandex is a familiar name for many. But for those unfamiliar with this tech giant, Yandex remains a mystery.  You may have heard the name in passing but aren’t quite sure what Yandex is or does. From its origins as a search engine to expansion into areas like e-commerce, transportation, and more, Yandex’s reach is vast.  By the end of this article, you’ll understand how Yandex started, its many services, products, and everything you need to know.  ## History of Yandex Launched in 1997 by Arkady Volozh, Yandex began as a project of Comptek International. It incorporated as Yandex Inc. in 2000 and opened its headquarters in Moscow. Yandex presented contextual advertising on its search engine in 1998. This innovative model analyzed search queries to display relevant ads. YandexAdvertising, their advertising service, launched in 2000 and now serves over 4 million clients. In 2011, Yandex was listed as a [public company on NASDAQ](https://www.nasdaq.com/market-activity/stocks/yndx), raising $1.3 billion. They launched services in Belarus, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and other nations.  ## Yandex vs. Google Yandex is the [dominant search engine](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1094920/leading-search-engines-by-visits-share-russia/) in Russia, claiming over 63% of the search market compared to Google’s 45%. Its algorithms are tailored to Russian users, providing superior results for queries in the Russian language. Yandex supports over 60 languages but focuses on Russian and former Soviet countries. Their algorithms are trained on massive amounts of data from Russian speakers, allowing them to understand nuances in the language.  While Google reigns globally, Yandex is unparalleled in the Russian market. Their linguistic capabilities, locally-focused algorithms, and advertising platform have secured Yandex’s status as the gateway to the Russian internet.  ## Key Features of Yandex Yandex offers many valuable features beyond web search, including: ### 1\. Yandex Translate Yandex Translate is Yandex’s free online translation service. It can translate between any 100 languages online and works offline. Yandex Translate is a multifunctional translator that allows translating: - **Texts**: You can enter or paste text, sentences, or paragraphs into the translator and get the translation instantly. - **Websites**: Yandex Translate will scan the page and translate all the text into your chosen language. - **Documents**: Yandex Translate supports the translation of documents in popular formats like DOCX, PPTX, and PDF.  - **Pictures**: The visual translation feature uses optical character recognition to detect and translate text in images and photos.  ### 2\. Yandex Disk (Cloud) Yandex Disk is Yandex’s cloud storage service. It allows you to upload and access files from anywhere. With Yandex Disk, you can create shareable links for any file or folder. Share the link with anyone, and they can view or download the file, even if they don’t have a Yandex account.  You can also create shared folders to collaborate with others. Set permissions for [shared files and folders](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/) to allow viewers to comment, edit, or upload new files. Aside from that, Yandex Disk has additional useful features like: - Version history to revert files to previous versions - Trash folder to recover deleted files - PDF viewer to read PDFs directly in the browser - Media player to stream audio and video files - Basic editing tools for documents and spreadsheets ### 3\. Yandex Maps Yandex Maps is Yandex’s free mapping service. It offers detailed maps of locations worldwide and provides directions and estimated arrival times for driving, public transit, walking, and cycling. Yandex Maps provides maps for the entire world. Some key features include: - **Offline maps**: Download maps when you have no data connection. Search and navigate without an Internet connection. - **Traffic data**: See live traffic conditions and traffic jams to plan the fastest route. - **Satellite imagery**: View high-resolution satellite images for most locations. - **Transit info**:  Plan subway, bus, tram, and other transit options. - **My Places**: Save your favorite locations like home, work, or points of interest to find directions to and from there quickly. - **Lane guidance**: See which lane you must be in for exits and turns to avoid missing your route.  Yandex Maps is available as a mobile app for Android and iOS and on the web. The mobile apps offer additional features like ride-sharing options to estimate fares and wait times for taxis, Uber, and Yandex. ### 4\. Yandex Mail Yandex Mail is a free email service from the Russian search engine. It offers features like: - Unlimited email storage  - Built-in translation  - Spam and antivirus protection  - Message templates and reminders  With Yandex Mail, you can send and receive emails and create email groups to stay in touch with friends or coworkers. You can even set up automatic replies when you’re away from your inbox.  Yandex Mail is worth considering if you’re looking for an easy-to-use, full-featured free email service. Sign-up is quick and straightforward, and Yandex Mail works great on both desktop and mobile. ### 5\. Alice (Voice Assistant) Alice is an intelligent personal assistant developed by Yandex, Russia’s leading tech company. It has a friendly female voice provided by Tatyana Shitova, who dubbed Scarlett Johansson’s character in the Russian version of the movie “Her.” Her voice sounds natural and helps bring Alice to life. Alice has many useful capabilities, such as: - Play music, podcasts, and radio through streaming services - Answer questions on weather, sports scores, unit conversions, etc. - Set reminders, timers, and alarms - Control smart home devices like lights, thermostats, and TVs Alice is available on Android, iOS, and Windows devices. She can be accessed through the Yandex mobile app, Yandex Browser and Yandex Launcher. Alice is currently only available in Russian, but Yandex plans to release English and Turkish versions. ## Major Core Business Products in Yandex Yandex offers several core business products to provide solutions for companies and developers. Below are some that you should know:  ### 1\. Speech Kit SpeechKit’s speech recognition technology can convert spoken words into written text instantly. It functions in various English, Russian, Turkish, and Kazak languages.  In addition to speech recognition, SpeechKit offers high-quality [text-to-speech](https://alejandrorioja.com/mind-blowing-ai-tools/) conversion using Avant neural networks. This feature allows the software to yield natural-sounding speech from written text in multiple languages.  The voices available in SpeechKit come with diverse tones, accents, and speech styles to cater to distinct demands and applications. ### 2\. Cat Boost CatBoost is devised to handle categorical data more efficiently than other machine-learning libraries. It can work with categorical features without encoding, preventing loss of information. This allows CatBoost to achieve higher accuracy, especially for data with many categorical features. CatBoost is used for: - Ranking - Classification - Regression The library supports both CPU and GPU learning and can be used for training ensembles of models. CatBoost delivers state-of-the-art results on many machine learning competitions and real-world tasks. ### 3\. Map APIs Yandex offers map APIs as part of its services. Their Maps SDK lets you add interactive maps to your mobile apps and websites. It offers satellite imagery, street maps, and hybrid maps across the globe. Through this, you can customize the map with tiles, geo objects, and layers. The Maps SDK supports gesture and tilt controls, traffic data layers, and turn-by-turn navigation. It has geocoding and reverse geocoding to alter addresses to coordinates and vice versa. Plus, the Maps SDK can even show the user’s location with the accuracy of a street address. It supports displaying points of interest, routes, and traffic data on the map.  ### 4\. Database Administration – Click House ClickHouse is an open-source column-oriented database management system used by Yandex. It is devised for running real-time analytical queries and updates. As a database administrator (DBA), you manage the ClickHouse database. This includes: - Checking active sessions and locks to monitor database activity and performance. - Managing databases, tables, columns, and indexes.  - Managing users, roles, permissions, and quotas to control access to data. - Check query metrics, table sizes, and compression rates. - Performing backups, restoring from backups, and migrating data. ### 5\. Apps Metrica Apps Metrica is Yandex’s solution for analyzing mobile app data. It provides tools for: #### Ad Tracking Monitor ad campaigns by analyzing metrics like impressions, clicks, conversions, and [ROI](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-inventory-management-software/). See which ads are most effective in acquiring new users. #### Usage Analytics Gain insights into how users interact with your app. See metrics like sessions, retention, engagement, and churn. Find out which popular features and see how people navigate your app. #### Crash Analytics Get crash reports to fix bugs and improve app stability. See details like device models, OS versions, and stack traces to understand why crashes happen. With AppMetrica, you’ll get a clear picture of how people discover and use your mobile app. The analytics platform uses semantic analysis to provide metrics that are easy to understand.  App owners can then make data-driven decisions to optimize app performance, increase engagement, and boost revenue. ## Should You Optimize in Yandex? Optimizing your website for Yandex can be very beneficial if you want to reach Russian internet users. Below are some reasons why you need one:  ### 1\. High Market Share in Russia Yandex has an overwhelmingly prevalent market share in its home country of Russia. This number has grown, with Yandex occupying [71 percent of the Russian desktop](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1348748/yandex-search-market-share-by-device-russia/#:~:text=Yandex%20search%20market%20share%20in%20Russia%202017%2D2022%2C%20by%20device&text=Yandex%20occupied%2071%20percent%20of,Russia%20increased%20in%20recent%20years.) search market in 2022. Overall, this shows how Yandex has secured its place as the favored search engine for Russian internet users. The company’s search engine and even other services like maps, mail, and taxi booking have become deeply embedded into Russians’ daily lives. ### 2\. Geotargeting System  Yandex’s geotargeting system allows advertisers to focus their ads on specific geographic areas within Russia. You can target cities, regions, districts, or neighborhoods.  Geotargeting your ads on Yandex has many benefits, like: - Focus your ad spend on the locations where your potential customers are. - Improve click-through rates.  - Boost conversion rates. - Optimized for local search rankings. To set up geotargeting in Yandex, select the locations you want to target from the cities, regions, and districts list. You can target multiple locations in a single campaign.  Leveraging Yandex’s geotargeting system is key to successful advertising on the platform. ### 3\. Mobile-Friendly Interface  Yandex prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search results. To determine if a website is mobile-friendly, Yandex checks if the pages adapt to mobile devices by: - Resizing images, text, and other page elements to fit smaller screens - Allowing users to zoom and scroll easily - Removing distractions like pop-ups While this icon does not directly impact ranking, mobile-optimized sites tend to rank higher over time. Yandex Direct, Yandex’s advertising platform, offers a mobile app that provides advertisers with features for managing campaigns on the go. The app allows users to: - View stats on ad impressions, clicks, conversions, and costs - Adjust bids and budgets - Add or remove keywords - View reports Advertisers should make the most of Yandex Direct on mobile and desktop for the best results. An optimized user experience across devices will improve campaign performance in the long run. ## Wrap It Up Whether you use Yandex for search, maps, transportation, or one of its many other tools, you can feel confident knowing you can access innovative products created with cutting-edge technology.  Yandex may have started in Russia, but with their ongoing international expansion, people worldwide will soon understand why Yandex means “search for meaning” in Russian. Like this post? To know more about other search engines, check this out below: - [Top 9 Search Engines: Review Of Ranking, Pros And Cons](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) - [What Is Schema Markup And How To Use It To Boost Your SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup/) - [The Email Services That Don’t Require Phone Verification](https://alejandrorioja.com/email-services-that-dont-require-phone-verification/) Drop a comment below and let me know what topic I should cover next! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The 2026 search-engine leaderboard has rearranged meaningfully:
Google
~88%
Bing
~4%
Yandex
~2.5%
ChatGPT Search
~1.8%
_Statcounter global, Q1 2026. ChatGPT Search hit measurable share for the first time in late 2024 and continues climbing._ For non-Western markets the picture differs: **Yandex** remains dominant in Russia / CIS (~65% share); **Baidu** owns China (~60% share, with Bing as a notable challenger at ~15%). Reverse-image search now has a real native answer inside **ChatGPT (image upload + "find this")** and **Perplexity** — the third-party tools described in older posts are increasingly redundant for most use cases. --- ## Sitebulb Vs. Screaming Frog: A Comprehensive Comparison Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/sitebulb-vs-screaming-frog/ Published: 2023-10-11 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Sitebulb excels in its user-friendly interface and visual data presentation, making it a great choice for those new to SEO or who prefer a more intuitive experience. On the other hand, Screaming Frog offers a wide range of technical SEO features and is known for its speed in crawling large websites.  Ultimately, the choice between Sitebulb and Screaming Frog depends on your specific needs and your level of expertise in SEO. Sitebulb is more approachable for beginners, and Screaming Frog offers advanced technical insights for seasoned professionals. When it comes to website auditing and SEO analysis, two names frequently pop up in conversations among digital marketers and SEO professionals: Sitebulb and Screaming Frog.  These tools are renowned for their capabilities in crawling and analyzing websites, providing valuable insights for optimizing online presence.  Let’s delve into what you need to know about [Sitebulb](https://sitebulb.com/) and Screaming Frog to help you decide which one fits your SEO needs. ## Sitebulb vs. Screaming Frog Crawling Capabilities ### Sitebulb Crawling Capabilities Sitebulb is a robust [SEO auditing tool](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) known for its advanced crawling capabilities, providing invaluable insights for website optimization. This tool comprehensively scans websites, indexes their pages, and analyzes on-page elements. Sitebulb can easily handle massive websites, providing in-depth reports on various aspects, such as site structure, performance, and mobile-friendliness.  ### Screaming Frog Crawling Capabilities [Screaming Frog](https://www.screamingfrog.co.uk/blog/) is a powerful website crawling and auditing tool that offers a comprehensive view of a website’s structure and content. Its crawling capabilities are a fundamental aspect of its functionality.  When you input a website URL, Screaming Frog’s crawler, known as a “spider,” systematically navigates through the site, following links and indexing all accessible pages. It can handle small and large websites, providing essential data like HTTP status codes, meta tags, titles, and other on-page elements.  This in-depth analysis helps SEO professionals and webmasters identify issues, such as broken links, duplicate content, or missing meta descriptions, allowing for efficient website optimization and troubleshooting.  ## Sitebulb vs. Screaming Frog Price ### Sitebulb Price Sitebulb’s pricing structure typically includes options for monthly or annual subscriptions, with the latter often offering cost savings. Licensing is based on the number of users and websites you want to analyze, making it scalable for individual SEO professionals and larger agencies.  Sitebulb also offers a free 14-day trial, allowing users to explore its features before committing. Remember that specific pricing details may evolve, so you must check their official website or contact their sales team for the most up-to-date information tailored to your requirements. ### Screaming Frog Price Screaming Frog tool provides a free version with limited features, ideal for small websites or those looking to get a taste of its capabilities.  For more extensive use, they offer a paid subscription model, typically billed annually. This grants access to the full suite of features, including advanced customization, unlimited website crawls, and integration options. Pricing varies depending on the licenses required and whether you need the SEO Spider or Log File Analyzer.  ## Data Depth ### Sitebulb’s Data Depth Sitebulb delves deep into the website’s architecture, crawling through multiple layers to unveil critical details such as page hierarchy, [internal linking structure](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/), and URL parameters.  This in-depth analysis allows SEO professionals to understand how search engines navigate and interpret their websites. Sitebulb’s Data Depth is a valuable feature for anyone looking to fine-tune their website’s SEO strategy, as it provides a holistic view of its intricacies and potential improvement areas. ### Screaming Frog Data Depth Data Depth refers to the level of information or detail that Screaming Frog’s web crawling software collects about a website during its scan. Essentially, it indicates how deep the crawler goes into the website’s structure to gather data.  A higher Data Depth means that the crawler explores more website layers, including subdirectories and nested pages, providing a comprehensive view of the site’s architecture and content.  This information is invaluable for identifying issues like broken links, duplicate content, missing meta tags, or other SEO-related problems. ## Customization ### Sitebulb Customization With Sitebulb’s customization, you can define custom rules and audits to evaluate specific aspects of a website’s performance, ensuring that your SEO insights align with your unique objectives.  This flexibility allows you to dig deep into technical SEO issues, content optimization, and other critical areas by crafting rules that match your specific criteria.  Additionally, you can set up custom reports and filters to focus on the metrics that matter most to you and your clients.  ### Screaming Frog Customization Customization within Screaming Frog refers to the ability to tailor its functionalities to meet specific needs and objectives. This involves configuring various settings, filters, and parameters to extract precisely the data or information you require from a website.  ## Customer Support ### Sitebulb Customer Support When it comes to getting assistance or resolving issues with their website auditing and SEO software, Sitebulb’s support team is highly responsive and knowledgeable. They offer various channels for users to seek help, including email support, a comprehensive knowledge base, and an active user community forum.  Sitebulb also frequently updates its software, and its support team quickly addresses bug reports or feature requests, ensuring that users have a smooth and efficient experience.  ### Screaming Frog Customer Support With a reputation for exceptional service, Screaming Frog offers comprehensive assistance and guidance to its customers. Their support team is known for its responsiveness and expertise, addressing queries and issues promptly.  This commitment to assisting their customers ensures that users can make the most of Screaming Frog’s powerful tools for optimizing websites and improving their online presence. ## Which Tool Is Right for You? The choice between Sitebulb and Screaming Frog ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Let’s break down the factors that might influence your decision: ### Choose Sitebulb if: #### User-Friendly Interface If you’re new to SEO auditing or prefer a more intuitive and visually appealing interface, Sitebulb is an excellent choice. #### Technical SEO Emphasis Sitebulb shines in technical SEO auditing and provides actionable insights into issues like broken links, duplicate content, and metadata problems. #### Customizable Reporting  If you require customized reports for clients or team members, Sitebulb’s reporting capabilities are top-notch. #### JavaScript Rendering Websites heavily reliant on JavaScript will benefit from Sitebulb’s ability to render JavaScript content. #### Regular Updates and Support Sitebulb consistently updates its features and offers excellent customer support. ### Choose Screaming Frog if: #### Advanced Users If you have experience with SEO auditing and prefer a tool with extensive features and customization options, Screaming Frog is a strong contender. #### Budget Constraints The free version of Screaming Frog provides basic crawling capabilities for those on a tight budget. #### Data Extraction If your SEO tasks involve data extraction and c[ontent analysis](https://alejandrorioja.com/common-google-analytics-data-errors-a-guide-on-how-to-fix-them/), Screaming Frog’s custom extraction feature is a valuable asset. #### Page Speed Analysis If optimizing page speed is a priority, Screaming Frog’s page speed analysis feature is beneficial. #### Integration Needs Screaming Frog’s ability to integrate with various third-party tools can enhance your SEO analysis. ## Sitebulb vs Screaming Frog Features ### Features of Sitebulb #### Visual Crawl Maps Sitebulb generates visual crawl maps that clearly overview a website’s structure. This feature makes identifying issues like orphaned pages and redirect chains easy. #### Data Visualization Sitebulb presents data in a visually appealing and easy-to-understand manner. This makes it simpler for users to grasp the SEO issues on their websites and take appropriate actions. #### In-Depth Technical Auditing Sitebulb excels in technical SEO auditing, highlighting broken links, missing metadata, and duplicate content. It also provides actionable recommendations for improvement. #### Customizable Reporting Users can create customized reports tailored to their specific needs, whether it’s for a client, team, or personal use. This feature streamlines the communication of SEO insights. #### JavaScript Rendering Sitebulb can render JavaScript, which is essential for websites that rely heavily on JavaScript for content loading and interactivity. #### Integration with Google Analytics and Search Console This integration allows users to combine data from Sitebulb with their Google Analytics and Search Console data for more comprehensive insights. ### Features of Screaming Frog #### Crawling and Indexing Screaming Frog efficiently crawls websites, providing detailed insights into URLs, metadata, headers, and more. It also helps in identifying indexability issues. #### Custom Extraction Users can extract specific data from web pages, making it useful for data mining, content auditing, and competitive analysis tasks. #### Page Speed Analysis Screaming Frog offers a page speed analysis feature that provides data on load times and identifies opportunities for optimization. #### Broken Link Detection It quickly identifies broken links, which is crucial for user experience and SEO rankings. #### Integration with External Tools Screaming Frog can be integrated with various third-party tools, such as Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and Majestic, to enhance its capabilities. #### Bulk Export and Reporting   Users can export crawl data to various formats and create custom reports for analysis and sharing with clients or team members. ## Benefits of SEO Auditing Tools SEO audit tools provide several advantages for website owners, digital marketers, and SEO experts. These tools are specifically crafted to examine websites and provide valuable insights regarding their performance in search engine optimization (SEO).  Here are some of the primary advantages of employing SEO audit tools: ### Detect SEO Problems SEO audit tools swiftly examine your website and pinpoint several SEO problems, such as broken links, duplicated content, missing meta tags, and more. Recognizing these issues is the initial step toward enhancing your site’s SEO. ### Enhance On-Page SEO These tools offer recommendations to optimize individual web pages. They can suggest improvements like: - Keyword enhancements - Better meta tags - Appropriate header tag usage - Other on-page SEO techniques to enhance your website’s rankings. ### Elevate User Experience A reliable SEO audit tool can evaluate factors related to user experience, including:  - Page loading speed - Mobile-friendliness - Website structure These insights can assist you in creating a more appealing and user-friendly website. ### Keyword Exploration Certain SEO audit tools feature keyword research functionalities that aid in identifying pertinent keywords and phrases for your content. This can be highly beneficial in crafting content that aligns with search intent and current trends. ### Competitor Evaluation Numerous SEO audit tools enable you to compare your website’s performance with your competitors. This valuable information helps you gain insights into your competitive landscape and make well-informed decisions regarding your SEO strategy. ### Monitoring Progress SEO tools often come equipped with monitoring and tracking capabilities, allowing you to monitor how your website performs over time closely. You can monitor shifts in rankings, organic traffic, and other crucial performance indicators. ### Handling Technical SEO These tools assist in addressing technical SEO concerns such as crawl errors, XML sitemaps, and robots.txt files. Rectifying these issues can enhance your website’s visibility to search engines. ### Optimizing Content SEO audit tools frequently offer insights into the quality, relevance, and usage of keywords in your content. This information can steer your efforts in creating and fine-tuning content. ### Analyzing Backlinks Certain tools provide features for analyzing your backlinks, helping you gauge both their quality and quantity. This analysis can guide your approach to building links. ### Tailored Recommendations Many SEO audit tools deliver personalized recommendations tailored to your website and industry. This simplifies determining which changes to prioritize and how to implement them effectively. ### Time and Effort Savings Conducting a manual SEO audit can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. These tools automate a significant portion of the process, saving you valuable time and effort. ## Sitebulb and Screaming Frog as SEO Auditing Tools In conclusion, choosing between [Sitebulb and Screaming Frog](https://www.icea-group.com/sitebulb-vs-screaming-frog-site-crawlers-similarities-and-differences/#:~:text=Generally%2C%20Sitebulb%20tends%20to%20be,website%20auditing%2C%20and%20URL%20indexing.) depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed, technical depth, and feel comfortable with spreadsheet-style reports, Screaming Frog might be the better choice.  Both tools are robust and can significantly assist your SEO efforts, so it’s a good idea to try their free trials to determine which aligns better with your workflow and goals. After reading this article thoroughly, I believe you now clearly understand the distinctions between the SEO auditing tools Sitebulb and Screaming Frog.  If you’re interested in learning more about related subjects, I encourage you to check out my previous articles, where you can discover valuable information to enhance your knowledge: - [Comprehensive SEO Audit and SEO Strategy – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/comprehensive-seo-audit-strategy/)  - [What is SEO? Learn the Basics of Search Engine Optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)   - [20 Best SEO Tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Is Freelance Digital Marketing Worth The Effort? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/freelance-digital-marketing/ Published: 2023-09-28 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CisE6j4mqrQ Image Source You may wonder, “Can I make money as a freelancer in digital marketing?” As a freelancer, digital marketing is indeed a legit career! ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Embracing the freedom of your own schedule at any location is possible as a Freelance Digital Marketer. Your income potential is much more likely to increase with each completed project. As long as you can accept the inconsistencies of your income while remaining self-motivated, you will be able to thrive in this digital landscape. Diversify your skills and build an impressive portfolio to showcase your expertise. As you grow, you have to reflect on what long-term goals you will be maintaining for yourself. It will be up to you to determine if the world of freelance digital marketing really is for you.  If you’re reading this, you are most likely curious about joining the exciting world of freelance digital marketing – I was too before! Becoming a [freelance digital marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) opens up a journey of challenges and opportunities. Essentially, you’re helping businesses grow within the digital landscape. In this article, I will guide you on this career path’s ins and outs. It might also help you confirm if this is your right choice. Digital marketing uses your skills to help businesses and clients create a strong online presence. Their main goal is to be able to achieve their marketing goals by promoting products and services through the use of various digital channels. As a digital marketer, your tasks involve creating and implementing strategies with search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, email marketing, creating content, and [advertising online](https://alejandrorioja.com/). YouTube link: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CisE6j4mqrQ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CisE6j4mqrQ) ## Advantages of Digital Marketing ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Tlb6BzXfge_md60fKYS6hy21xvGZRNWKqb6_Gexv0zSNrkQO019yQz1jyST5n7j4wublONVytotvyedcpHCUhFmFCZWVYYxPi9r0o5C5S7caXdU4bmJbDDPbN4D_qGPK7Fw5ZjiFciGYJIB296CHyhg) [Image Source](https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Freelance-Writer-Salary#Yearly) You may wonder, “Can I make money as a freelancer in digital marketing?” As a freelancer, digital marketing is indeed a legit career! A career in digital marketing can pay extremely well. Unlike regular jobs, there is no threshold on how much you can make – as long as you put a lot of effort into it. [ZipRecruiter’s data](https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Freelance-Writer-Salary#Yearly) states that as of August 8, 2023, an average freelance writer in the U.S. makes about $60 985 annually. Jason Cabler once wrote, “It is not hard for freelancers to make a six-figure yearly income.” However, [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/9-ways-make-1000-more-month-freelance-writer-money-making-cabler/) reports that the figure may vary depending on your experience, the effort you put in, and your niche. Looking away from the financial figures, is there anything else that freelancing as a digital marketer can offer?  ### 1\. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance Do you like waking up and setting up work in the comfort of your own home? Imagine having the freedom to set up your work hours. Traveling to multiple locations sounds so freeing, doesn’t it? Being a freelance digital marketer, you can work from your favorite coffee shop or while inside any transportation. A freelance career involves time flexibility, allowing you to manage your professional and personal life better.  ### 2\. A Potential for Better Income Unlike a fixed monthly salary, you can increase your income by simultaneously taking on multiple projects from different companies. Your earning potential will grow if you complete your campaign within the agreed-upon deadline. ### 3\. Diversity in Clients and Projects Being a freelancer means you are not tied to just one company. With a career in digital marketing, you’ll be able to work with various clients from multiple companies. Different clients not only keep your projects interesting; it will also allow you to learn various knowledge and acquire different skill sets. You can now use this acquired knowledge for different projects to further your career through creativity and innovation. ### 4\. Skill Enhancement and Continuous Learning Since the digital environment will always be ever-changing, being a freelancer will require you to be updated on the latest trend. Keeping updated enhances your skills and boosts your credibility in the eyes of potential clients since it shows commitment to your work. ## Challenges of Being a Freelance Digital Marketer While being your boss sounds exciting, a variety of negativities can come with this. Do they outweigh all the life-changing positives we’ve talked about previously? [Being a freelancer](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-a-freelancer/) essentially means running your own business. YOU will be in charge of making those impactful decisions that will make or break your business. You’re the one tracking and accepting payments from clients. Regarding self-promotions, it’s up to you how you’ll strategize them. There will come a time when you feel like giving up. You are the main provider for your brand; after all, freelancing is [all about the hustle](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/). ### 1\. Inconsistent Income When it comes to financial instability, freelancing is in line. Due to varying project volumes and client payments, you may experience fluctuations in your income. Before you decide to become a freelancer, ensure that you have built an emergency fund. In line with this, budgeting your income is the next best step. Your main source of income may be your phone, laptop, or desktop computer. Make sure you are financially prepared for everything that may happen to them. ### 2\. Acquiring and Retaining Clients Finding a client is not an easy task. Maintaining them is a completely different story. You must constantly promote yourself, create networks, and maintain your current clients while adding new ones. Only then will you be able to create a steady stream of income. Ensuring the quality of work amongst all these clients is no easy feat. You need to be able to constantly provide what they need for them to keep coming back to you. ### 3\. Self-Motivation and Time Management Procrastination is your primary challenge in the freelancing world. Working independently requires all your self-discipline since you will manage your time. You have to set realistic goals and motivate yourself to finish a project you don’t want to do. Consistent motivation is one of the main problems of freelancers new to the scene and testing the waters. ### 4\. No Holiday Pay, No Benefits, No Sick Days? Aside from procrastination, stress is a major contributor to health decline. Since you are your boss, your regular excuse for a fever or the common cold is no longer applicable at this rate. Once you fall sick, you have to make sure you have some savings to cover your downtime and your trip to the hospital. Regarding holidays and relaxation, you might feel guilty about your trip. It’s not uncommon to feel relaxation anxiety since you might think that the time you could be relaxing can also be the time to hustle and put in more work.  [](https://alejandrorioja.com/growth-marketing-strategies-guide/) ## Starting Your Freelance Digital Marketing Career Incorporating what you have learned so far, were you able to weigh the pros and cons of being a freelancer? Are you sure you still want to commit to this industry? While there are many guides out there that relay, “You can be a Freelance Digital Marketer with zero knowledge!” Preferably, most clients hire those with some knowledge and background in that area. If you were a business owner, you would be more likely to hire someone who knows what they’re doing, right? You wouldn’t just hire someone with general knowledge of a specific task that you need to do. ### 1\. Building the Necessary Skill Set Before jumping in, you must ensure you have solid foundations, particularly in digital marketing. This may or may not include: - Social Media Marketing - Search Engine Optimization - Content Creation - Research and Analytics [Also read about DIY SEO – How to Do It Yourself](https://flux.la/diy-seo-how-to-do-it-yourself/) ### 2\. Creating an Impressive Portfolio If you haven’t got anything yet on hand, start small. Ensure that you include all of your best works in that portfolio. A portfolio can significantly boost your credibility, even in a Google Drive. A starter helps you and your potential clients see what you can do; they might even help you tweak all necessary skills through training. ### 3\. Presenting Who You Are Creating a website or [a simple social media page](https://flux.la/how-to-create-a-social-media-app-for-your-business-in-2020/) can help reflect your brand. Your social media profiles will act as your virtual business card and help potential clients find you and learn about your services. Your skills should play a major part here. It is best if you are about to determine your market to be more aware of the trends and changes in that particular industry. If your previous job was at a digital marketing agency, you could focus on a specific area where you spent most of your time. Your digital marketing business may target something more specific instead of creating general content. ### 4\. Building Client Relationships After you’ve set up everything, your next action should be to gain clients. Attending your chosen industry’s events and webinars and joining online communities within your niche is best. Networking can be a game-changer for freelancing, especially in the digital marketing niche. Not only does it help you stay updated on the industry’s current trends while also provides the opportunity to connect with potential clients. Building strong client relationships based on trust and strategic interactions is crucial for repeat clients and referrals.  ## Essential Tools for Freelance Digital Marketers Freelance digital marketing is not just a passion or a hobby. It is a business that requires a lot of discipline, hard work, and the ability to manage your clients and projects properly. If you’re a digital marketer who wants to streamline your time (and productivity), these are some of the [best tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) that will keep you efficient and organized while staying ahead of the competition: ### 1\. Social Media Management and Scheduling Tools Platforms like Hootsuite and Buffer will save you a lot of time in posting content. These programs help you by letting you manage, schedule, and post across multiple platforms ahead of time. Investing in these platforms will ensure you have a consistent online presence. Interaction is crucial for audience engagement since you want to keep them in a routine to keep up with your website. ### 2\. Analytics and Reporting Platforms  Of course, you’ll need data-driven keywords and tools that help with decision-making. Google Analytics helps you understand what your audience wants for faster content generation. It is best to streamline your campaign planning and your project’s success and help refine your strategies based on real-time data. ### 3\. Content Creation and Graphic Design It can be taxing for most of us, especially if we’re not design pros. User-friendly interfaces like Canva and Adobe Creative Studio will help leverage your content. The main goal of these platforms is to help you craft stunning visuals and post-its to impress clients with eye-catching content. ### 4\. Project Management Tools With Trello or Asana, you can always keep your project on track. These platforms primarily organize your tasks and help you set deadlines. If you are working with clients remotely, it is a must that you can communicate with them effectively. Being able to ask clients what they want and need with a click of a button will foster your project’s success. ### 5\. Email Marketing While most people no longer read their emails anymore, email marketing is still an effective tool in digital marketing. There are platforms like Mailchimp or ConvertKit that will help you create, automate, and plan email campaigns. Strategic digital marketing will nurture your leads, keep your clients engaged, and drive more conversations through targeted, personalized messages. ### 6\. Keyword Research and SEO Tools When it comes to keyword optimization, SEO is your best friend. Tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs will be the ones to help you uncover these. These tools help in locating the search terms your target audience uses. Strategically using these keywords in your content increases your website’s search engine rankings. Mastering keyword optimization significantly helps your content rank better. Aside from these, you can analyze your competition and not saturate the market with overly milked keywords. ### 7\. Customer Relationship Management Systems (CRMs) Keeping track of client leads and managing projects is necessary for a freelancing career. You want to provide the same quality you send to all your clients for repeat business. CRM Systems like HubSpot and Salesforce will help organize your client interactions.  ## Strategies for Success and Growth Freelancing in the Digital Marketing world is not an easy money scheme. You have to scale the highs and lows of this industry with strategic decision-making and patience. ### 1\. Specializing vs. Generalizing You have to be able to spend enough time to tailor your marketing efforts to generate clients. You have to be unique from your competitors to be highlighted with the benefits of working with you. Do you want to be a specialist in a specific area of digital marketing? Or perhaps you prefer to offer a broader range of services? The secret is specialization! ### 2\. Continuous Improvement Adding a new skill to your business can make you more valuable to clients. The freelancing industry prioritizes growth and opportunities. Focus on skills that align with your long-term goals and add value to your chosen niche. ### 3\. Feedback is a Gift Actively seek feedback from all of your clients. Feedback and suggestions will help improve your services to tailor to their needs in the future. Happier clients are likely to refer you to other clients within their network. It’s like they’re doing the marketing work for you for free! ### 4\. Create Your Pricing Strategy As your workload increases, the technology you need to fulfill them will also increase. Steadily raising your rates is one of the most direct ways to increase your income. Research the competition and match their skills with better output quality. Create a benchmark of your quality in the industry and raise your price steadily. While this can be a risky move, take into account some factors like: - your experience and expertise - the quality of your work - the uniqueness that you bring to the clients Once you can determine how much you’ll be charging, ensure to communicate transparently with clients. Explain the purpose behind the increase and the additional benefits if they continue to work with you. Long-term clients will always appreciate an update instead of randomly calculating the price. ## Is Freelance Digital Marketing Worth It? Truthfully, only you can make that decision. It will always be a constant growth, self-discovery, and learning journey. Every hurdle you face will only improve your journey to a rewarding career. If you are willing to work, freelance digital marketing can become your canvas for success. Let me know in the comments if you plan on becoming a digital marketer! Like this article? Read more to expand on your knowledge on being a freelancer: - [Quick SEO Overview](https://flux.la/seo-overview/) - [The Go-To Place To Hire Freelancers and Influencers](https://alejandrorioja.com/brybe-marketplace-review-the-go-to-place-to-hire-freelancers-influencers/) - [How To Become A Freelancer? A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-a-freelancer/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top AI Tools To Make You More Productive At Work Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-tools-to-make-you-more-productive-at-work/ Published: 2023-09-26 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Productivity **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Integrating AI tools into your work environment can revolutionize productivity and efficiency. By harnessing the power of AI, you can streamline workflows, make data-driven decisions, and free up time for high-value work.  However, addressing ethical considerations and ensuring data privacy and security is important. Embrace these top AI tools to unlock your true potential and elevate your productivity to new heights in the modern workplace. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work on your desk daily? Trust me; I’ve been there too. When I started my own business, I knew that while I enjoyed my work, I wanted to find tools that helped me save time on tasks while staying productive. That inspired me to find a game-changing solution that revolutionized how I tackled my workload and skyrocketed my productivity. The secret? AI-powered tools. To keep up with the demands of this fast-paced digital age, businesses need to optimize their operations to gain a competitive edge. Artificial intelligence streamlines processes automates mundane tasks and even enhances our decision-making abilities. Get ready to unlock your full potential and embrace the future by harnessing the power of technology to supercharge your efficiency. ## Top 7 Best AI Tools to Streamline Your Tasks Efficiency in one’s work entails staying organized and allocating the perfect amount of time and energy to each task as necessary.  To help you achieve this, various tools have been introduced that can be grouped into categories based on their features and what they offer. Here are some of the best tools to use in different aspects of your work: ### ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/eZYQGOwz5QPFI6yS1-RpsUnsBqTjwZcNuYTH6pAq_6IRCMsC6RuZOfaQQFw7hqi5AfDEWlTkzZk63sP9UDlngbWl8TvKfQ7HLpmUFnK0eVY7YukYj1YQjAKfkulRHyXeIBOtVxZqLPZc5wbv110JR50) ### 1\. Team Collaboration – Slack Slack is a popular team collaboration platform that revolutionizes communication in the workplace. It comes with features like: - Real-time messaging - File sharing - Integrations with other tools Its AI-powered bots enable efficient task management, reminders, and customizable notifications, streamlining workflow and enhancing overall productivity. Slack is an excellent choice for remote teams fostering instant communication, reducing response times, and ensuring team members stay connected at all times.  Also, its powerful search function and file-sharing capabilities simplify information retrieval and keep important documents accessible to all team members, regardless of location. ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Pa5WuG1eb-oYJF9CJ2N485xHisBRwEUipT0y7L71EU-xdceSBLtLtXISrRdvLxaU7uUyc37SvRLvDsuwnmSQi3XJ70iEkFfK6KpgF3wiEmqdPEY0MZHXwSx_6pUkAYYim4D1fNEz3NCH79EpDDRGqyk) ### 2\. Automation – Zapier Zapier is an automation tool that connects different applications and automates repetitive tasks.  With a wide range of integrations, Zapier allows you to create “Zaps,” which trigger actions in one app based on events in another. This saves time and minimizes manual effort, making it a powerful ally for productivity. Aside from that, here are some features you need to know: #### Multi-Step Zaps  These chain multiple actions together, creating intricate automation sequences. For example, a user can automatically save email attachments to Google Drive, send a Slack notification, and add a task to Trello, all triggered by a single action. #### Triggers and Actions Certain triggers can be customized to each user or team to suit their specific workflow needs. #### Filtering and Conditions  It allows all users to control when a Zap should run based on specific criteria. This feature helps create more sophisticated automation and prevents unnecessary actions from being triggered. #### Scheduled Zaps  Users can set up Zaps to run on a schedule, enabling them to automate regular tasks, such as sending daily or weekly reports or reminders. #### Zap Templates  Users can browse and choose to meet their specific needs without the need for complex configurations. #### Multi-Step Delay  Enables users to add delays between actions to ensure that one action is completed before moving on to the next, preventing potential issues with timing and synchronization. #### Email Parser  This feature allows users to extract specific data from incoming emails and use it in subsequent actions, which helps automate data entry tasks or process email-based orders.  ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/D0CTt7AIQyzd0p65iLYYe-9GZQEBPDLXhUBJZoV7csVdPXdDytP8NUcMTel0nTknLGB1Ry4pr3eoy_L-kgulKbbBLACaWFWnupL4TXwoxsdk-acXHefdDWHawVNfzRcBBIyMtVxn0v1XPJHfP4eUGt8) ### 3\. Time Management and Scheduling – Google Calendar Google Calendar is a go-to tool for efficient time management. Its AI-driven features analyze your schedule and suggest optimal meeting times.  Also, it helps automatically add events from Gmail and intelligently reschedule conflicting appointments, ensuring you make the most of your day. Here are some of its best features that contribute to effective time management and scheduling: - Easily create and schedule events with specific titles, dates, times, and locations, including recurring events - [Sync multiple calendars](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2018/03/29/most-effective-ways-to-manage-your-calendar-when-scheduling-clients/?sh=2d0f226852ba) to help you better balance work, personal, family, or specific projects - Receive through email or pop-up notifications on your devices - Easily adjust the event time to your current time zone - Adding attachments like documents, files, or links to events - Suggests event titles, locations, and even attendees based on your previous entries ### ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/51P5FYzcyu55FVJYlVzB6m3uerO-PuGmfZvxzad_H5VhoV71e88iCVP8WgeUMFAY36RXglKOMk1TytXgz0gFZbGkPW2rEdsc8SGYux0-z0KClrs3t11nOY3Br4Tqddj_VkAnUkrExB-ARNBRXu-CjFY) ### 4\. Social Media Management Platform – Hootsuite Hootsuite simplifies social media management by providing a centralized platform to schedule and publish posts across various social channels. Here are some of its best AI capabilities:  #### Multi-Platform Management  Allows users to manage multiple social media accounts from a single dashboard. This includes major platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc. #### Scheduling and Publishing Posts in Advance  The platform allows users to plan their content strategy, create posts, and schedule them to be published optimally, ensuring a consistent presence without manual intervention. #### Content Curation  Hootsuite offers tools to curate content from various sources and share it directly with the audience. This feature helps users keep their social media feeds active and engaging, even when they don’t have original content to share. #### Social Media Monitoring  Users can track mentions, keywords, and hashtags relevant to their brand or industry to understand their audience better and [optimize marketing strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-jasper-ai-is-changing-the-way-we-interact-with-technology/). #### Detailed Analytics and Performance Reports  Enables social media campaign success tracking, identifies top-performing content, measures [engagement metrics](https://alejandrorioja.com/9-social-media-metrics-all-marketers-should-measure/), and makes data-driven decisions to improve their strategies.  #### Team Collaboration  Their collaboration features are important for businesses with multiple social media managers working on different accounts. #### Inbox Management  Allows consolidation of all social media interactions, comments, and messages into a unified inbox. This makes responding promptly to customer inquiries, mentions, and engagement easier, leading to improved customer service. ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/73_egmIf605_IzaqJx_lUlF4AoegdJEx4zBCyt5wz8jk76lZf4fTDu5qf6fKiGMbU5jWmNd95cZ3xcLtvIFV5rCAtQYIF5VBH0vSafNZRS8iOmoI_XYDFilszyd1anpClLf_5oGrd9K3h1bH-wp663A) ### 5\. Designs – Canva  Canva is a user-friendly design tool that empowers non-designers to create stunning visuals. With AI-powered templates, image suggestions, and automatic resizing, Canva makes graphic designing a breeze, enabling you to produce eye-catching materials effortlessly. Here are some of Canva’s best features and how they are useful in designing: #### User-Friendly Interface Their interface is simple and intuitive, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced designers. The drag-and-drop functionality allows you to add elements to your designs easily. #### Extensive Template Library  Provides a solid starting point and helps users save time while ensuring aesthetically pleasing designs for various projects, including:  - Social media posts - Presentations - Posters - Flyers  - Business cards #### Customization Options  Users can change colors, fonts, and backgrounds and add images or elements from Canva’s extensive media library. #### Photo Editing Tools  Basic photo editing tools include crop, filter, brightness, and contrast adjustments. This eliminates the need to switch between different applications for editing images before using them in social media posts. #### Collaboration Features  The [collaboration features](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/02/10/the-importance-of-considering-collaboration-during-digital-transformation/) allow multiple team members to collaborate on a design project, making it ideal for teams or groups working together on a single project. #### Export and Share Options  Users can easily export their designs in formats like PNG, JPG, PDF, or GIF and directly share them on their social media. #### Brand Kit  Enables users to store brand assets like logos, fonts, and color palettes in one place, ensuring consistency across all designs. ### ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ZRUD9EGXcmldChZ1kLH2GGVFZnbVlyJ9idG8q1y09OHLmePtB-aYONLeoGpaVJ0xPC-jVENfLY5cvakoYwGCPjqftuodZaviyp-g-TUOaLNi9vA9QIZMYJSm-7Yrsl7AyqGOtoIR4PXM99QVGIKKlPQ) ### 6\. Grammar Checkers and Rewording Tools – Grammarly Grammarly is a well-known AI-driven tool that checks grammar, spelling, and style errors. With context-based suggestions, it helps enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing, making it an indispensable tool for any workplace. Here are some of its best features and how it’s useful as a grammar checker and rewording tool: - Helps identify and correct grammar mistakes and punctuation errors for concise work - Provide relevant improvements to your content’s sentence structure  - Identify potential instances of copied content and ensure the originality of your work - [Provide useful insights](https://www.forbes.com/sites/rashishrivastava/2023/03/09/grammarlys-generative-ai-feature-will-soon-be-able-to-write-interpret-and-edit-text/?sh=5522b45d6d7e) into your writing habits and patterns - Accessible through a browser extension, desktop, or app ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/uvcbjSjJe_ZaQC7QSqdpcuM9tun56lTT0Rly2wyT3Dv9IbRsxS2nq_VGhFmkhu6mQIGMLRUZnFH-NdlTBN5dIBsSGT_M_alq9KvOoMxwC-1ucJ7FKD-UQRGzJgaGSzDrSR-L9A2s5U14LVILLy0n2fI) ### 7\. Transcription and Meeting Assistants – Fireflies Fireflies is an AI-powered transcription tool that records and transcribes meetings in real-time. It offers keyword search, helps with [extracting valuable insights](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-market-research-tools-to-uncover-actionable-insights/), and integrations with various project management tools, ensuring you never miss crucial information during meetings. Here are some of its best features and how it’s useful as an [intelligent personal assistant](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkoetsier/2018/04/24/ai-assistants-ranked-googles-smartest-alexas-catching-up-cortana-surprises-siri-falls-behind/amp/) and transcription tool: #### Real-time Transcription  Uses automatic speech recognition (ASR) technology to transcribe meetings, conferences, and conversations. #### Speaker Identification  It can distinguish between different speakers in a meeting or conversation, making it easier to track who said what and enabling more accurate transcription. #### Smart Notes and Action Items  Helps identify action items and important points during a meeting, converting them into actionable notes and key takeaways  #### Integration with Communication Platforms Designed to integrate with various communication and collaboration platforms like Zoom, and Slack, ensuring seamless usage within existing workflows #### AI Insights and Analytics The AI generates comprehensive analytics on meeting patterns, frequently discussed topics, and participation levels, helping teams to optimize their communication strategies #### Searchable Transcripts It allows users to find specific information, keywords, or discussions easily when referencing past conversations #### Language Support Fireflies is accessible via multiple languages, connecting diverse global teams and users ## AI is the Future Gone are the days of drowning in a sea of paperwork or sifting through countless emails. With AI tools, you can wave goodbye to mind-numbing data entry and repetitive administrative duties and easily stay on top of deadlines.  As we move forward, the future of AI in the workplace holds immense potential. Advancements in AI technology will continue to shape how we work, opening up new possibilities for automation, predictive analytics, and personalized assistance. Embracing these AI tools and staying abreast of the evolving landscape will empower you to thrive in whatever profession.  Enjoyed learning about different AI tools to incorporate into your daily work? Check out these. - [Jasper vs. ChatGPT: The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/) - [Top AI Image Enhancer Tools & When To Use Them](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-image-enhancer-tools/) - [Review Of Jasper.AI: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing](https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-jasper-ai/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Rapid Growth Strategy: Achieving 200 Targeted Facebook Followers Per Day Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/achieving-200-targeted-facebook-followers-per-day/ Published: 2023-09-21 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: SEO TL;DR: It boasts an impressive monthly active user base of over 2.95 billion, making it ideal for showcasing products, inspiring customers, and assisting in purchasing decisions. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Facebook provides an excellent platform for businesses, bloggers, and organizations to connect with their audience. It boasts an impressive monthly active user base of over 2.95 billion, making it ideal for showcasing products, inspiring customers, and assisting in purchasing decisions. This increased traffic led to conversions and sales, significantly boosting revenue and profit growth. With its diverse features and engaged user base, Facebook continues revolutionizing how businesses and individuals thrive in today’s digital landscape. Having a strong and engaged following on Facebook is an important aspect, whether to businesses, influencers, or even individuals looking to expand their online presence.  However, it is not all about collecting a large number of followers; it’s also about the targeted followers who are truly interested in your content.  In this blog, we will explore effective strategies to help you gain 200 targeted Facebook followers daily, helping you grow your community and reach your goals. ## What are Targeted Facebook Followers? Targeted Facebook followers are users interested in the content, products, or services offered by a Facebook user or page. These followers are specifically chosen or attracted based on their data, such as demographics, interests, behaviors, or preferences.  Contrary to generic or what we call random followers, targeted followers are more valuable for businesses and content creators.  What they are doing is they align with the page’s niche or industry, which can eventually lead to increased reach, brand visibility, and potential conversions.  ## Why Should You Grow Your Facebook Following? Growing your Facebook following can bring numerous benefits and advantages to individuals and businesses. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider investing in growing your Facebook following: - Increased reach and visibility - Better engagement and interaction - Enhanced brand awareness - Opportunities for influence and thought leadership - Increased [website traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) and conversions - Market research and customer insights - Support for product/content launches - Social proof and credibility - Opportunities for collaboration and partnerships Whether you want to expand your brand or a business aiming to reach a broader customer base, investing time and effort into growing your Facebook following can yield significant returns. ## Ways to Get 200 Targeted Facebook Followers Per Day Achieving the goal of gaining 200 [targeted Facebook followers daily](https://www.forbes.com/sites/miketempleman/2017/05/10/how-to-get-250000-real-facebook-followers-in-under-a-month/?sh=4ce52ddf27f4) demands dedicated and consistent actions. Here are some successful approaches to reach this objective:  ### Understanding Your Target Audience The success of your social media strategy hinges on how well you know your audience and their preferences.  Conducting thorough research and gaining insights into their characteristics, interests, and preferences will allow you to create content that genuinely resonates with them. Here’s why understanding your target audience is crucial and how you can achieve it: #### Tailored Content and Engagement When you clearly understand your audience, you can tailor your content and engagement strategies to meet their needs and interests.  Knowing your audience and the topics they’re interested in is one of the keys to crafting posts that capture their attention and prompt them to follow your page. #### Building a Connection Knowing your audience on a deeper level helps build a genuine connection with them. By addressing their pain points, aspirations, and interests, you can establish your brand as relatable and trustworthy.  This connection fosters loyalty and encourages followers to advocate for your content, attracting even more like-minded individuals. #### Precise Targeting Understanding your target audience enables you to use precise targeting techniques in your Facebook marketing efforts. Facebook offers various tools to reach specific demographics, interests, and behaviors.  You can direct your content toward the people most likely interested, leading to higher engagement and follower growth.  ### Optimizing Your Facebook Page Your Facebook page is your online identity, so make it captivating and engaging. Create an [appealing profile](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnrampton/2014/10/13/how-to-optimize-your-business-page-for-facebook-search/?sh=77daa26b3be1) with eye-catching visuals that reflect your brand’s personality.  Craft an informative and compelling “About” section communicating your offer and why users should follow you.  First impressions matter, so invest time in curating a page that has a lasting impact. ### Crafting Shareable and Valuable Content The foundation of a successful social media strategy lies in its content. Recognize content themes that match your audience’s interests and requirements.  Different formats like images, videos, and infographics add variety and keep the content interesting.  Consistency is crucial, so create a consistent posting schedule to retain audience interest and loyalty. ### Leveraging Facebook Groups [Facebook groups](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-keep-your-facebook-group-active/) are an excellent way to connect with like-minded individuals in your niche. Join relevant groups and participate actively in discussions.  Also, share your content strategically and respectfully, avoiding spammy behavior. By adding value and building genuine relationships, you’ll organically attract followers interested in what you have to offer. ### Harnessing the Power of Influencer Marketing Incorporating influencer marketing can greatly enhance your follower growth. To do so, identify influencers within your industry or niche who share similar brand values.  Collaborate with them on content creation or seek endorsements, which will help you gain exposure to their followers. When an influencer supports your brand, it boosts your visibility and builds credibility and trust. Their endorsement attracts followers to your page, positively impacting your brand’s reputation. ### Running Facebook Ads for Targeted Growth Facebook has evolved into a dominant force in [digital advertising](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/), offering businesses a powerful tool to achieve targeted growth.  #### Creating Compelling Ad Creatives for Maximum Impact The success of your Facebook ad campaign relies heavily on the quality and relevance of your ad creatives.  To effectively engage your target audience, developing captivating visuals and persuasive ad copy that resonates with their needs, interests, and pain points is essential.  By tailoring your messaging to address specific customer segments, you can significantly increase the likelihood of converting ad views into meaningful actions, such as clicks, sign-ups, or purchases. #### Optimizing Your Ad Budget for the Best Results Allocating your budget wisely is critical to running successful Facebook ad campaigns.  Careful planning and continuous optimization are key to ensuring your resources are used efficiently to achieve the highest return on investment (ROI) possible.  By monitoring the performance of your ads and making data-driven adjustments, you can identify what works best for your target audience. Also, focus your budget on the most effective ad placements and formats. ### Engaging with Your Audience Maintaining a two-way communication flow is essential to show your audience that you value their feedback and input.  Responding promptly to comments, messages, and mentions acknowledges their presence and strengthens the connection between you and your followers. Consider running interactive posts, contests, and polls to encourage active participation and create a sense of interaction. These activities make your page more engaging and provide valuable insights into your audience’s preferences and interests. One effective strategy to foster even more engagement is to leverage user-generated content. User-generated content refers to content your followers or customers create showcasing their experiences with your products, services, or brand.  Sharing this content on your page not only serves as a form of appreciation for your loyal customers but also reinforces a sense of community among your followers.  ### Analyzing Data and Making Data-Driven Decisions Facebook Insights is an invaluable tool that empowers you to gain valuable insights into your page’s performance and better understand your audience’s behavior.  Utilizing this analytics platform allows you to access a wealth of data and metrics that shed light on how your content resonates with your followers. Regularly analyzing the data provided by Facebook Insights is key to unlocking the full potential of your social media strategy.  Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as reach, engagement, likes, comments, shares, and click-through rates can help you gauge the effectiveness of your posts and campaigns. It allows you to identify what content drives the most significant results and what aspects need improvement. With a data-driven approach, you can make informed decisions to continually refine and optimize your Facebook marketing efforts. For instance, you can pinpoint the type of content that resonates most with your audience and tailor future posts accordingly.  If you notice a decline in engagement on specific posts, you can investigate the possible reasons and adjust your content strategy accordingly. ### Staying Updated with Facebook Algorithm Changes The ever-changing landscape of Facebook’s algorithm has a profound impact on how content is distributed and displayed to users.  As the platform continually refines its algorithm, it becomes crucial for content creators and businesses to stay updated with the latest changes to optimize their reach and visibility. The Facebook algorithm plays a significant role in determining which posts appear on users’ news feeds. It takes into account various factors, such as user engagement, post relevance, and content type, to curate a personalized feed for each individual.  However, these factors are subject to frequent adjustments and refinements by Facebook’s development team to enhance user experience and ensure the most relevant and engaging content reaches its intended audience. To maintain a strong and consistent presence on Facebook, it is essential to stay informed about the latest algorithm updates.  This includes keeping a close eye on official announcements from Facebook, reading industry news, and following social media experts who analyze and share insights about algorithm changes.  ## Facebook as a Tool for Success Facebook can be a powerful tool for success, whether you are an individual looking to build a personal brand or a business striving for growth.  To leverage Facebook successfully, it’s crucial to have a well-defined strategy, create high-quality content, engage with your audience, and analyze your performance regularly. By doing so, you can harness the potential of Facebook as a tool for success and achieve your personal or business goals. Did you like this article? If you do, and you’re interested in learning more about how to get 200 targeted Facebook followers per day, you can do so by reading my previous blogs below. - [Maximizing Your Facebook Experience With Facebook Touch: Tips And Tricks](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-facebook-touch/)  - [The Best Growth Hacking Stories You Need to Know For 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/)  - [How to Increase Your Web Traffic to 250k/mo ?](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## WordPress VS. Joomla VS. Drupal: Unveiling The Best CMS For Your Website Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-joomla-vs-drupal-unveiling-the-best-cms-for-your-website/ Published: 2023-09-19 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: WordPress is a user-friendly interface that simplifies content creation and management, even without coding knowledge. Joomla balances simplicity and complexity, making it versatile for various website needs. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Content management systems (CMS) are essential web tools for creating and managing websites easily without needing coding skills. They allow you to add, edit, and organize content like text, images, and videos effortlessly, ensuring your website remains engaging to visitors. WordPress is a user-friendly interface that simplifies content creation and management, even without coding knowledge. Joomla balances simplicity and complexity, making it versatile for various website needs.  Meanwhile, Drupal excels in handling ambitious and large-scale projects with its robust features and scalability.  Content management systems (CMS) have become vital tools for building an online presence today. CMS is a web application that empowers you to effortlessly add, edit, and organize content on your website without coding wizardry.  CMS ensures your website remains fresh and captivating, attracting visitors with every click, from text and images to videos. Given this, WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal are the most popular open-source CMS options. Evaluating your options requires considering your needs and technical abilities to determine which platform best fits.  However, each system has its strengths and weaknesses regarding ease of use, customization, support, and more.  This overview will give you a side-by-side comparison of WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal to help you make an informed choice on the CMS that will work best for your needs.  ## Understanding the Three CMS Options Three Content Management System (CMS) options are popular: WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal. These CMS platforms have revolutionized website development, making it accessible and user-friendly for individuals and businesses. ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/y5G9-myj3prb0Ysy6wBXItGncyX26VsqOHcdenHoKpcZpaVLc_UuhKLpQZmkOJmaxqhtfcKAljzsl4qaA7QPNtNebB4I1awR25QhL5OToFtvus-k6j7sJ0OfZhDTlDjAbLfeNk1UEhRLnB0YIKD1Jf8) ### WordPress Loved by millions, this friendly website wizard welcomes beginners and seasoned developers with open arms. Its user-friendly interface makes content creation and management a breeze, allowing you to easily update your site without coding knowledge.  WordPress’s vast array of [themes and plugins](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-wordpress-booking-plugins/) empowers you to customize your website’s appearance and functionality, tailoring it to match your unique vision.  However, with great popularity comes the need for vigilance – keeping your WordPress secure through regular updates is essential to ward off any potential threats. ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/WZaXhd3nztUom7cwGmAo_yzfBjg7EPXXrtmAqE8Hlm7siXz4EF0M9eTMsy468Q2_2F63SkVQ1GReDwXsqn1hHqH41JdaoaoZOh41a5oXoImZp06vjR0l9hBE_j9Ab_7mXk5PBTFimH1CUVqN9a6EjQk) ### Joomla Joomla strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and complexity, making it a versatile option for website creators. It’s an excellent choice for medium-sized websites that require special features, such as e-commerce or social networking capabilities.  Though it may require more learning, mastering Joomla unlocks a world of possibilities, making it an appealing option for those seeking more flexibility. ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/sNknWiVdksMOK8_NTGfkKQQNJQgPbcnguyvnIyCA3gmoEKo_oAQxLKJCGjltvrEo6z3vjCZfqgFo6ZmmJ4xvU7ToiYndWr7bYHZVUXrzybJZ3N9-u9BROdO2UX2BoaUhmArmzfR8B4DvXJYmPKqClZo) ### Drupal  Drupal is the go-to CMS for ambitious web projects and large-scale websites. Its robust features and scalability can handle even the most daunting challenges. This CMS has built-in features like user management, taxonomy, and multilingual tools. The Diff module compares content revisions, which helps publish workflows. Additionally, Drupal does have a steep learning curve and is targeted more at experienced developers. Building custom themes and modules requires PHP, HTML, and CSS knowledge.  The complexity allows for a high degree of flexibility and scalability but can be difficult for beginners to pick up quickly. Drupal powers over 1 million websites and is used by governments, universities, and media companies. It is also considered very secure, with regular updates to patch vulnerabilities. The large community also contributes to its strong security. ## Similarities Between WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal While they each have their unique strengths and capabilities, these CMS options share several essential similarities that make them popular choices for website creators worldwide. ### Open Source Website Builder Open-source website builders like WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal are free, customizable platforms to [build your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/quick-guide-on-how-to-access-website-source-code/). They are: - Easy to get started with - Offer thousands of free themes and plugins to extend the functionality - Open source WordPress is the most popular and easiest to use, but it may be limited to large enterprise sites. Joomla and Drupal are more robust but have steeper learning curves.  The choice comes down to your needs, skills, and how much control you want over your site. For most, WordPress hits the sweet spot of simplicity and power. ### Primarily Written in PHP All three CMS options—WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal—are built on PHP, an open-source scripting language. PHP is embedded into HTML, allowing you to create dynamic web content.  While PHP knowledge is not required to use any of these systems, it does make customizing and expanding your site much easier. Those with PHP experience will find it easy to dig into the code and modify the CMS as needed. For beginners, the learning curve will be gentler with WordPress, given its simplistic approach. Joomla and Drupal have steeper learning curves due to their more complex nature. However, all three systems have extensive documentation and community support to help you get started. ### Community-Driven Projects WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal are all open-source content management systems (CMS) built by large communities of developers. #### WordPress WordPress started as a blogging platform but has evolved into a full CMS. It has a simple user interface and installation process, making it easy to start. There are thousands of free themes and plugins available. However, some consider it less flexible for large, complex sites. #### Joomla Joomla is also easy to use but aimed more at small to medium websites and portals. The community is active, and there are many extensions and templates. The administration interface is more complex than WordPress. Some consider Joomla good for e-commerce sites. #### Drupal Drupal targets medium to large websites. It has a steep learning curve but is highly flexible and customizable. Drupal powers some of the biggest sites. The community is very active, with many modules and themes available. However, Drupal requires more technical skills.  ### Themes for Visual Enhancement Themes control the visual design and layout of your site. All three platforms—WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal—have a wide selection of free and [paid themes](https://smallbiztrends.com/2022/02/best-wordpress-themes-for-blogs.html). WordPress is the clear winner in terms of theme options. It powers websites and has the largest theme directory. Thousands of free and premium WordPress themes are available with options for any type of website, including: - Blogs - E-commerce stores - Portfolios While not quite as extensive as WordPress, over 2,000 free Joomla templates and many commercial options exist. Unlike WordPress, the Joomla template installation process typically involves more manual configuration and adjustments to get your desired look. Drupal traditionally had fewer theme choices, but the options have grown over time. There are now over 1,000 free Drupal themes and many paid choices. If appearance options are top priorities, Drupal may require more work to achieve the desired design. ## Functionalities They Offer In the ever-evolving world of [Content Management Systems](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-content-management-software/), three prominent contenders bring a unique set of functionalities, including: ### Content Types When it comes to content types, WordPress has the edge. It supports posts, pages, custom post types, revisions, and formats. Creating custom post types and taxonomies is also quite easy in WordPress. Joomla and Drupal are a bit more limited. In Joomla, you get articles, categories, sections, and tags. Creating custom content types requires installing a third-party extension.  Drupal has a robust content type system, but custom content types and fields require more technical knowledge than WordPress. So if having various content types and the ability to create custom ones easily is important, WordPress is likely your best choice. Joomla or Drupal would work fine for simpler sites with a blog and static pages. But WordPress gives you more flexibility as your needs grow. ### Access Controls WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal all offer access control options to manage user permissions. However, they differ in their implementation and flexibility. WordPress has a simple role-based access control system with five default roles:  - Administrator - Editor - Author - Contributor - Subscriber  Administrators have full control, editors can publish and manage posts, authors can publish posts, contributors can write posts, and subscribers can only comment.  Joomla has a more advanced access control system with User Groups and Access Levels. User Groups bundle a set of Access Levels that define permissions for various components, modules, and menu items. Joomla has three default User Groups: - Public - Registered - Special Drupal has a robust access control system based on user roles and permissions. It has a few default roles like Anonymous, Authenticated, and Administrator.  You can create custom roles and assign permissions to them at a very granular level for various modules, pages, blocks, and other content. Drupal allows for complex conditional logic to determine if a user has access to something. ### Multilingual Sites If your website needs to support multiple languages, Drupal and Joomla have a slight edge over WordPress.  Drupal allows you to define languages, translate content, URLs, and interface text into multiple languages. On the other hand, Joomla provides a multilingual extension that lets you create language versions of content, menus, modules, and components. While WordPress does have some multilingual plugins, it lacks the robust multilingual features built into Drupal and Joomla. They can translate posts, pages, categories, tags, menus, and themes but often require manual translation of plugins and custom fields. So if building a multilingual site is a priority, Drupal or Joomla may suit your needs better than WordPress. They provide more comprehensive out-of-the-box support for translating content and interfaces into multiple languages. ## Comparison Between WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal Exploring the strengths and weaknesses of these CMS titans is essential for any website creator seeking the perfect match for their online ventures. ### Ease of Use When it comes to ease of use, WordPress has a slight edge over Joomla and Drupal. WordPress is very intuitive and user-friendly, even for beginners. The interface is clean and simple to navigate.  On the other hand, Joomla and Drupal have steeper [learning curves](https://blockworks.co/news/incoming-web3-cfos-say-steep-learning-curve) and are better suited for more tech-savvy users.  While the interfaces have improved over the years, they can still seem complicated to new users. The systems have a lot of advanced features that can be overwhelming. All three CMSs provide extensive documentation and video tutorials to help you get up and running. However, WordPress generally receives more support from third-party sources, like blog posts, books, and online courses. So, if you get stuck, help is easy to find. ### Customization and Functionalities Regarding customization and functionality, WordPress has the largest selection of plugins and themes. With over 55,000 free plugins, you can easily extend WordPress’ functionality. Some popular plugins include: - [WooCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-add-easy-powerful-google-analytics-in-woocommerce/) for ecommerce - Yoast SEO for search engine optimization - Contact Form 7 for creating contact forms - Akismet for spam protection Joomla and Drupal have thousands of extensions, but not as many as WordPress. While the number of options is good, it can also be overwhelming for new users.  The extensibility of all three CMSs allows you to use them for a wide range of websites like blogs, e-commerce stores, membership sites, and more. In terms of layout and design, WordPress has the biggest selection of free and paid themes. Joomla and Drupal have a good number of themes as well, but not quite as many as WordPress.  ### Security As the most popular CMS, WordPress is frequently updated to patch vulnerabilities and bugs. However, its popularity also makes it a bigger target for hackers. Here are some key security considerations for each platform: **WordPress:** - Regular updates – Always update WordPress and plugins/themes to the latest versions to patch security holes. - Strong passwords – Use complex, unique passwords for your WordPress login, admin, and FTP/hosting access. - Limit login attempts – Use a plugin like iThemes Security to block brute force attacks. - Two-factor authentication – Enable two-factor authentication, like a text message code, for your WordPress login. - Choose reputable plugins/themes – Only use plugins and themes from trusted sources to avoid malware. - Hide login page – Change the URL to something less obvious, like a secret entrance. **Joomla:** - Less frequent updates – Joomla updates are less frequent, so vulnerabilities may remain unpatched longer. - Extension security – Carefully vet Joomla extensions since there is less review, and they can introduce vulnerabilities. - Other measures – Other WordPress security tips apply to Joomla, like using strong, unique passwords, limiting login attempts, and hiding the login page. **Drupal:** - Rigorous review – Drupal’s open-source community actively reviews code and security, but updates are less frequent. Vulnerabilities can still exist for some time. - Complex permissions – Drupal has a steeper learning curve to set up proper user roles and permissions to avoid unauthorized access. - Other tips – Strong passwords, limiting login attempts, and two-factor authentication also apply to enhancing Drupal security. In summary, while no CMS is 100% bulletproof, following security best practices for any platform you choose can help minimize risks. Staying up-to-date and vigilant about vulnerabilities is key.  WordPress likely has the best balance of usability and security among the three due to its popularity and frequent updates. But with extra caution taken, Joomla or Drupal can also be secure options. ### Support Regarding support, there are some key differences between the three platforms. WordPress has a massive community of users and developers, so finding solutions to issues is typically easy.  They offer documentation, video tutorials, and discussion forums on their website. However, official support from WordPress is limited to the forums—no phone or live chat support options exist. Joomla also has a large community and resources on its website and from third parties. They do offer email support for those with a paid membership. The level of support can vary depending on which membership level you choose. Drupal is aimed more at developers, so their support tends to be more technical. Their site offers community forums, extensive documentation, and video tutorials. However, the Drupal community may be less beginner-friendly for casual users than WordPress or Joomla. ### Cost When it comes to cost, WordPress has a notable edge over the other two platforms. WordPress software is free to download and use as an open-source system.  You can host your WordPress site on your server or use a free hosting service to keep costs low. For extra features, paid plans start at around $5 per month. On the other hand, Joomla and Drupal are free, open-source systems that generally cost more to implement and maintain. Joomla’s paid hosting plans start around $10 per month, while Drupal plans are typically $15-30 per month or more, depending on the features.  Both platforms may require more technical skills to set up and manage, potentially increasing the need to hire a web developer. ### Localization Options WordPress has the largest selection of localization options, supporting over 70 languages and dialects. The WordPress interface and backend can be fully translated using language packs. Many plugins provide additional translation capabilities for the front end, like WPML. Joomla offers language packs for over 65 languages that translate the admin interface and site content. The Joomla Framework also supports language overrides so that you can create custom translations for your site’s template and extensions. However, the overall localization process is more difficult than WordPress. Drupal supports interface translations through its Translate module for over 70 languages. It also provides robust multilingual capabilities for content through its Content Translation module. However, enabling multilingual support can require more technical knowledge to configure.  ## Which is Better?  Ultimately, the choice between WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal depends on your needs and skills.  Each platform has a lot to offer, so take the time to evaluate which one matches your requirements. With a little effort, you can have a stylish and fully functional website up and running in no time.  The possibilities are endless if you choose the right tool for the job. Now build something great! Like this post? Check out some of my blogs that you might like: - [5 Features That Make WordPress Great 2023: A Review](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) - [WordPress.com Vs. WordPress.org: An Ultimate Comparison Guide 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-com-vs-wordpress-org/) - [WordPress Vs. Webflow: Which Is The Better Option?](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-webflow/)    Drop your comments below and let me know which topic you want me to cover next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## .Com vs .Net – A Comprehensive Guide For Choosing The Best For Your Business Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/com-vs-net/ Published: 2023-09-13 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Choosing between the .com and .net domain extensions requires careful consideration of your website goals and branding objectives. While .com is commonly associated with commercial ventures, .net maintains its connection to networking and technology.  The domain extension you select can impact search engine rankings, user perception, and brand recognition. As such, website owners are advised to conduct thorough research, evaluate industry norms, and understand their target audience’s preferences.  In today’s digital landscape, establishing a strong online presence is key for businesses, organizations, and individuals. When I first started my website, one of the key elements I focused on was choosing the right domain name. That meant days of research to find the perfect one that met all my needs.  Domain extensions serve as the unique address that future users type into their web browsers to access your site. However, beyond the domain name itself, the domain extension plays a crucial role in defining your website’s identity and purpose.  The most common domain extensions, such as .com and .net, are familiar to internet users worldwide. Users need to understand what each domain entails to make an informed decision when choosing the perfect online address for their website.  As such, this blog will delve into the differences between .com and .net domain extensions, exploring their unique characteristics and applications.  ## Understanding Domain Extensions Top-level domains (TLDs), or domain extensions, are the suffixes at the end of a website address, following the final dot.  They play a vital role in website identification and categorization on the internet. Each domain extension serves as a unique identifier, indicating the purpose or nature of the website.  For instance, .com stands for “commercial” and is widely associated with businesses and commercial entities. On the other hand, .net represents “network” and was initially intended for network infrastructure-related websites.  ## Understanding the .com Extension The .com domain extension, short for “commercial,” is undoubtedly the most widely recognized and extensively used domain extension on the internet.  Originally created in 1985, the .com extension was one of the early generic top-level domains (gTLDs). Over the years, it has evolved to become the go-to choice for various websites, including: - Businesses - E-commerce platforms - Online publications - Professional service providers - Personal blogs - Portfolios One of the key reasons for the .com extension’s popularity is its perceived trustworthiness and credibility.  Studies have consistently shown that internet users tend to trust [websites with a .com](https://varn.co.uk/10/27/70-of-people-dont-trust-newer-website-domains/) domain more than other extensions. This is because they are seen as reliable and reputable sources of information, products, and services. Additionally, studies have shown that [websites with a .com domain](https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/will-the-new-domain-extensions-negatively-impact-your-seo/253408) rank higher in search engine results, further highlighting the perceived trust and authority associated with this extension. Its versatility and universal appeal make it attractive for website owners seeking to establish a distinct online presence and build trust with their audience. ## Understanding the .net Extension The .net extension was originally introduced to represent network-related entities and has since evolved to encompass a broader range of applications.  While .com is associated with commercial ventures, .net maintains its connection to networking and online infrastructure. A study found that internet users perceive [.net domains as more trustworthy](https://www.ironpaper.com/current/2014/03/net-websites-are-still-popular) than generic country code top-level domains (ccTLD). This perception can be attributed to the historical association of .net with network-related entities and the familiarity of the extension among Internet users.  One main distinction between .net and .com is their intended use and industry associations.  While .com is predominantly used commercially, .net is more commonly seen in technology, networking, and internet services industries.  The .net extension is often preferred by businesses and organizations involved in web hosting, software development, network solutions, and online communities.  Thanks to the suitability of .net domains, it extends to various sectors and applications. Here are a few examples: ### 1\. Technology Companies Technology firms, including software development companies, IT consulting firms, and networking solution providers, frequently choose .net. It conveys a sense of technical expertise and aligns well with businesses focused on network infrastructure. ### 2\. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) ISPs often utilize .net domains to highlight their online connectivity and networking industry involvement. It signifies their role in providing internet services and managing network infrastructure. ### 3\. Online Communities and Forums Usually, .net domains are well-suited for websites hosting online communities, discussion forums, or networking platforms. It indicates the platform’s purpose as a gathering place for like-minded individuals and fosters a sense of connectivity. ### 4\. Networking and Infrastructure Companies Businesses involved in network infrastructure, such as data centers, cloud service providers, and domain registrars, often opt for .net domains to highlight their involvement in the networking industry. ## Choosing Between .com and .net When choosing between .com and .net domains, several factors should be considered to make an informed decision that aligns with your website’s purpose, branding goals, and target audience.  Here are some essential considerations: ### 1\. Branding Considerations Your domain extension significantly influences your brand’s perception and positioning. Consider how each extension aligns with your brand and the message you want to send out.  Remember, .com domains are generally associated with commercial ventures, while.net domains are more closely linked to networking and technology. Assess which extension better represents your business or organization and resonates with your target audience. ### 2\. Industry Relevance Evaluate your industry and research the common domain extensions used by competitors or similar businesses. This can provide insights into industry norms and help determine the more suitable extension.  For example, a .net domain might align more with industry expectations if you’re in the technology or networking sector. ### 3\. Target Audience Perception Consider how your target audience perceives different domain extensions. Conduct market research or surveys to gauge user preferences, trust, and familiarity with various extensions.  This insight can influence your decision-making process and help you select an extension that resonates with your target audience. ### 4\. Availability and Competition Check if the domain name you’re interested in is available under both .com and .net extensions. Remember that .com domains tend to have higher competition and may be more challenging to obtain.  If your desired .com domain is unavailable, consider alternative options or explore the potential of acquiring it from the current owner. Assess the availability and competition for .net domains to ensure you can secure a suitable and memorable website address. ### 5\. Website Purpose and Content Evaluate the nature of your website’s content, functionality, and goals. Consider whether a .com or .net domain extension better aligns with your website’s purpose and offerings.  If your primary focus is e-commerce, a .com domain might be more appropriate. Hence, if your website is centered around networking, technology services, or online communities, a .net domain could be a better fit. ### 6\. Future Scalability and Expansion Think about your long-term plans for growth and expansion. Consider how your chosen [domain extension](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-growth-with-your-domain-name/) may impact your ability to expand into new markets or diversify your offerings. Choose an extension that allows flexibility and doesn’t limit your future possibilities. ## Importance of Domain Extension for SEO and Branding The choice of domain extension is crucial for branding and impacts the [visibility of your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/effective-ways-to-boost-your-websites-domain-authority/) in search engine rankings.  Here’s why domain extensions are significant for SEO and branding: ### 1\. Impact on Search Engine Rankings While domain extensions do not directly influence search engine rankings, they can indirectly affect SEO efforts.  When determining rankings, [search engines](https://alejandrorioja.com/user-optimization-principles/) consider multiple factors, including domain relevance, user experience, and keyword usage. A relevant and trusted domain extension can enhance your website’s credibility and improve its chances of ranking higher in search results. ### 2\. Trust and Perceived Credibility Domain extensions like .com and .net have been established for decades and are widely recognized and trusted by Internet users. A reputable domain extension can instill confidence in users and search engines, leading to better click-through rates, increased traffic, and potentially higher rankings.  ### 3\. Brand Identity and Recognition Your domain extension can contribute to building a strong brand identity and recognition.  A well-chosen domain extension that aligns with your industry or niche can reinforce your brand’s positioning and make it more memorable to users.  For example, if you operate a tech-related business, a .net domain may help communicate your expertise and specialization in technology, enhancing your brand’s image and recognition within that industry. ### 4\. Industry-specific and Targeted Extensions In recent years, industry-specific domain extensions (such as .tech, .store, .design) have emerged, offering opportunities to create targeted and niche-specific websites.  These extensions can help communicate your website’s purpose and specialization right in the domain itself, making it easier for consumers to understand what your website offers.  They can also enhance branding by aligning with specific industries or communities, further establishing your brand’s identity and credibility within those circles. ### 5\. Localization and Regional Targeting Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) like .us, .uk, or .de can benefit businesses targeting specific geographic regions. Search engines often consider ccTLDs as a signal of localized relevance, which can improve your website’s visibility in country-specific search results.  If your targeted audience is mainly based in a particular country or region, using a ccTLD can help strengthen your local presence and connect with your target market more effectively. ## Can You Get Both Extensions?  While it may be possible to obtain both the .com and .net extensions, is it a good idea to do so? Here are a few points to consider when making this decision: ### 1\. Brand Protection Acquiring both the .com and .net extensions can help protect your brand from potential competitors or copycats. Securing both extensions ensures that others cannot register a similar domain and potentially confuse your target audience. ### 2\. Consider User Habits Many internet users default to typing “.com” when entering a website address. Having the .com extension may make it easier for users to find your website, reducing the risk of losing traffic to a competitor with the same or a similar domain. ### 3\. Budget and Resources Obtaining multiple domain extensions requires additional expenses for registration and maintenance.  Consider your budget and resources to determine if investing in both extensions aligns with your overall strategy and priorities. If budget constraints exist, focusing on one primary extension may be a more practical approach. ### 4\. Website Purpose and Reach If you operate globally or target international audiences, consider country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) relevant to specific regions. This might make more sense than acquiring multiple generic extensions.  It allows you to effectively tailor your website and marketing efforts to each target audience. ### 5\. SEO Considerations Duplicate content can negatively impact SEO. If you plan to have identical or similar content on both the .com and .net extensions, search engines might view it as duplicate content, potentially affecting search rankings.  Implementing proper canonicalization or redirecting one domain to the other can help mitigate this issue. If securing both extensions is not feasible, prioritize the extension that best represents your brand and resonates with your target audience. ## Which One is Better? In the world of domain extensions, the choice between .com and .net can significantly impact your website’s success. As highlighted in this blog, understanding these extensions’ differences is crucial for making informed decisions based on your website goals and branding objectives. Remember, the domain extension you choose is not just an address but a vital part of your brand’s online presence. It affects your website’s visibility, credibility, and recognition in search engine rankings.  By strategically choosing the right domain extension, you can optimize your website’s online presence and establish a strong brand identity in the digital landscape. Enjoyed this article? Check out more website-related content: - [How To Gain Growth With Your Domain Name?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-growth-with-your-domain-name/) - [Effective Ways To Boost Your Website’s Domain Authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/effective-ways-to-boost-your-websites-domain-authority/) - [4 Easy Steps to Get YOUR Website To The Top of Google in 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google/) Comment below on what other website growth content you’d like to see! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## What Makes the Best Advertising Mediums? Examples and Why They Work Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-makes-the-best-advertising-mediums/ Published: 2023-09-08 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Advertising (SEM), Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Finding a marketing strategy that works for you is one of the most important things that can make your business successful. Many different advertising mediums are available, and each has pros and cons that make it ideal for specific business types. For instance, social media ads can effectively drive traffic to your website. However, because of how vast social media is, chances of conversion may be low if your content isn’t optimized to reach your target audience. Another example is display ads; these are great for getting your brand name out there, but they don’t offer much to bring in new customers or increase brand awareness. Each of these mediums has its own unique features that can help you reach your audience and boost your brand’s recognition. So how do you know which one is right for your business? Here are some things to look for. One of the top marketing tips I always give entrepreneurs is effective advertising that focuses on reaching one’s clients or target audience. Effective advertising can bring you a lot of business. You start to get referrals from your competition, sales increase from your current clients and new clients start calling you. However, an effective campaign requires time, energy and effort. The ideal advertising campaign depends on finding the [right ad media](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2017/07/18/choosing-the-right-ad-medium-for-your-product-or-service/amp/) that will help you reach your target audience. This article will review various advertising media types and how each can help you get your message out there. ## What Is Advertising Media? What do you think of when the phrase “advertising media,” comes up? For most people, the answer is television. This medium was once considered the most effective way for advertisers to connect to their target audience. But times have changed since then, and so has your understanding of advertising. The term “advertising media” refers to numerous marketing channels, whether they are more popular alternatives or alternative means of communication used by firms to promote their products, services, or brand. Given that not every client is aware of every brand’s products, identifying which channels will work for your company is crucial to remain one step ahead of the competition. Today’s advertisers use more than just radio and print ads: they also advertise on mobile phones and online communities like [Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-the-facebook-ads-library-helps-your-business-grow/) and Twitter. Nowadays, it’s almost impossible not to see a commercial while browsing through your favorite website or app, and even if you don’t notice them right away (or at all), chances are good that eventually, one will sneak up on you! ## What Is The Role Of Advertising Media? Marketers can interact with various audiences uniquely by utilizing the correct advertising media. [Social media](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2021/12/16/12-ways-to-make-the-most-of-social-media-advertising/?sh=a2a79cc47208), for instance, encourages users to start a conversation, but television uses one-way communication to spread messages.  Media strategists must, therefore, carefully assess which channels provide the most advantages at the [lowest relative cost](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-beginners-guide-to-cpm-what-it-is-and-how-it-works/). Each advertising medium should be chosen depending on the campaign’s objectives (such as brand awareness or direct sales) and the channel’s capacity to reach the target audience. Advertising media is used to promote a product or service. Businesses can also use advertising mediums to inform the public about a product or service and encourage consumers to purchase it. ## 5 Types Of Advertising Media Channels Media planners must develop the overarching goal and media campaign strategy before placing advertisements. To optimize their media placements and increase the campaign’s impact, each type of advertisement has a unique set of advantages and disadvantages that must be considered.  Think about the advantages and disadvantages of these well-known media outlets below: ### 1\. Print Media Print media, one of the oldest and most widely used forms of advertising, has a wider audience and can even be used for lengthy adverts with plenty of material. The traditional form of media still used by advertising for message delivery is print media.  Newspapers and periodicals are typically referred to as print media. Due to the reader’s active involvement in learning, it is regarded as a high-involvement medium. Advertisements through print media offer information one at a time as the message is read out slowly and personally, in contrast to television and radio, which can deliver much information simultaneously. Print media usage is mostly involved in the conscious quest for information. For print media companies, advertising is a significant source of income, allowing them to provide a wide range of print capabilities for creating and delivering advertising messages. The potential of newspapers as a medium for advertising will be covered first, and then the advantages of magazines for marketers will be covered. #### Newspapers  Advertising in newspapers accounts for a considerable portion of the overall advertising budget. Our nation’s newspapers reach most urban households, and many family members read them. Their messages may be more sophisticated and extensive than those on the radio and television since they have the ability to be lengthier. Newspapers are a local medium that makes it simple for advertisers to target specific markets. This selectivity is conveniently offered.  Newspaper closure times are not strictly enforced. Some last for twelve hours or longer. Newspapers are local in substance and appeal, and they offer chances for direct communication between a product and its local dealers or distributors, which is advantageous from the advertiser’s point of view. This media provides news and an environment of factual information and currency, which may be advantageous for some advertising scenarios. Newspapers offer significant flexibility and a very wide readership for advertisers. Compared to other media, newspapers allow for much quicker placement of advertisements and allow the advertiser to specify the precise locations to be covered. Newspapers frequently feature local promotions from shops, theaters, and other neighborhood businesses. Using newspapers has the drawback that reaching a large national or regional market could be expensive. Additionally, a magazine reproduces the advertisement more accurately than the printed edition. Additionally, unlike with magazines, consumers don’t keep the issue for an extended time or give it to others. Finally, newspapers enjoy a different level of esteem among customers than TV and some magazines. #### Magazines  Magazines are a way to connect with various audiences, including those with both general and niche interests. A company can reach national customers using periodicals like Femina, Business Week, and the Dharmayug. For advertisers who do not desire nationwide coverage, Sports Week and Film are regional magazines that are accessible. Some marketers segment their markets based on age, educational attainment, and interests. They may have concerns about specialized publications. There are magazines for businesses, consumers in the industrial sector, women, sports, etc. There is a huge variety of magazines. Some cater to large audiences by providing news or other “general interest” content. Others are extremely technical, specialized, or even exotic.  Generally speaking, magazines allow advertisers to connect with a highly discerning readership. The main benefits of [magazine advertising](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/04/21/why-magazine-ads-still-belong-in-your-media-plan/?sh=4a463bca241d) are the selectivity of market objectives, high-quality reproduction, longevity, the prestige attached to particular magazines, and the added services provided by many publications. The reproduction quality of magazines is typically very good. The main drawback of magazines is that they are less adaptable than newspapers, radio, and television. The hefty price is another drawback. Many small advertisers do not use this media due to the hefty expense. Because magazines are typically held longer and occasionally read multiple times, as well as due to the specialized nature of their contents, advertisements may be read in magazines with greater care and depth of interest than elsewhere. ### 2\. Transit Advertising  Transit advertising is a type of outdoor advertising. It refers to any commercial signage or displays found on buses, cars, trucks, trains, and other public transportation and at the terminals or stops from where they run. It can be used to promote a product or service, and it’s also used to promote brands, destinations, and more. These are also referred to as mobile displays. #### Pros - It is affordable and capable of reaching a large geographic area - This media has a large readership potential because it can reach travelers and pedestrians #### Cons - The limits of this medium include its small size and the issue of space availability. ### 3\. Broadcast media Broadcast media is a medium of communication transmitted to the public through radio and television. It’s one of the most popular forms of advertising because it can reach many people at once and for long periods. #### Television  Television advertising is by far the most popular medium for advertisers. It’s a cost-effective way to reach a broad audience, and there are many different options regarding channel, program, and location.  The brands that advertise on television usually want their message to be heard by everyone who watches it, so they’ll be looking for ways to reach as many people as possible with their message. There are two main categories of television advertisements. The most prevalent of these are advertisements. #### Commercial A communication that makes a sale announcement; a verbal or visual advertisement that aims to sell products or services to consumers directly. These are typically scheduled during commercial breaks in a television broadcast, like a movie or an ongoing series. #### Product placement This is the practice of including company or brand names, logos, goods, and services in films or television programs for brand awareness, entertainment, promotion, and marketing, versus a commercial or TV show that doesn’t support the advertisement.  These commercials, typically aired during commercial breaks in television programming, are intended to offer products directly to the audience viewing them. Infomercials and telethons are other forms of television advertising. However, they are less prevalent because they often air late at night or during particular fundraising seasons for public access channels like PBS. #### Radio Radio is a great medium for reaching a large audience but it can also target specific audiences. Reaching a key population can be done very well via a broadcast medium like radio.  Because most radio stations only play music from one genre, such as pop, classical, urban, or country, their listeners frequently share similar traits. Combined with thorough marketing research, a radio marketing campaign can effectively convey a promotional message to a target segment. Advertising campaigns through radio stations have a lot of flexibility: they can run ads throughout their day (or week or month) when no other programming options are available on air.  They can use different spots within one program (like during breaks) or even create new programs entirely from scratch so that consumers know what kind of content will be coming next! ### 4\. Direct Mail Any advertisement sent via mail (postal transmission), such as sales letters, folders, pamphlets, booklets, catalogs, and the like, is referred to as direct mail. The most private and selective kind of media is [direct mail](https://alejandrorioja.com/6-best-email-marketing-services-for-small-business/). It only reaches the targeted prospects. It contains the fewest unique features possible yet is still incredibly adaptable. Even without direct contact, it possesses all the possible personal characteristics. It might give specific information about the good or service, leaving lasting impressions. Its efficiency can be measured. It may be timed at the advertiser’s discretion. It appeals to everyone personally.  The post office may permit any size, shape, or form. It does not directly compete with the competitor’s issue.  Before the full mailing is sent out, extensive testing can be done on the product, pricing, appeal, or other criteria. An offer-incorporated mailing can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of direct mail marketing.  Direct mail is pricey, though. It could lack a suitable mailing list. The recipient might view it as trash mail because it doesn’t necessarily amuse. It could be a better tool for public outreach. ### 5\. Outdoor Advertising  Outdoor advertising is a great way to promote your product or service, brand, and location. It can also effectively promote a city or even an entire country.  Advertising via the outdoors has been around since the beginning of time, and there are many different types of outdoor advertisements that you can use to reach your audience. Any advertisement made visible to a consumer outside of their home is called outdoor advertising, also known as out-of-home advertising (OOH).  This form of advertising media is regarded as mass-market media meant to support extensive messaging and branding initiatives, just like broadcast advertising. It’s crucial to incorporate graphic design into outdoor advertising.  Consider how soon passersby see a billboard design. The message must be read and understood in the few seconds a driver has to see it. A wonderful option for firms to reach a big audience without any targeting is outdoor advertising. Since showing any sales-related content on a board is challenging, outdoor advertising boosts brand awareness more than selling. However, outdoor advertisements are now widely used by advertisers to bridge the physical and digital worlds. Businesses use technology to engage passersby and direct them to something immediately, facilitating a connection between customers and a brand, whether it be through a QR code or apps like Snapchat and Instagram. ## Key Considerations When Selecting Advertising Media  Finding the right idea or media channel after weighing the many various types of advertising media may be challenging. Each channel offers its combination of advantages, disadvantages, and applications that can support or undermine your company’s marketing initiatives.  Take into account the following elements while choosing media for future marketing campaigns: - Overall strategy  - Rating information  - Budget constraints  - Messaging Frequency  ## Where this leaves us We hope we’ve been able to give you an understanding of the different types of advertising media and their role in your business. There are many things to consider when selecting the best medium for your company, from cost-effectiveness to reach.  Remember that every campaign will require a unique strategy for success, so it’s important to look at what works and how well it does so! Was this helpful? If you’re looking for more content to help you understand the various marketing and advertising tools you can use, check out these articles: - [7 Ways to Combine Email and Social Media Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/7-ways-to-combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) - [Master Marketing With Data Analytics: How to Get Sustainable Results](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/) - [The Ultimate Guide To Increasing Targeted Pinterest Followers Daily](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-increasing-targeted-pinterest-followers-daily/) Comment below what other advertising-related content you’d like to read about! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top AI-Powered Copywriting Tools for Bloggers Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-powered-copywriting-tools-for-bloggers/ Published: 2023-09-04 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Productivity ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line In the world of modern content creation, AI copywriting tools offer an array of advantages for bloggers seeking efficiency, creativity, and consistency. From speeding up the writing process to maintaining a cohesive brand voice, these tools are powerful assets in a blogger’s toolkit.  While embracing these tools, always remember to fact-check the content they produce to ensure accuracy and authenticity. So, go ahead, dive into the realm of AI-assisted content creation, and find the perfect tool that empowers you to create captivating and impactful blog posts. As the world becomes more accepting of AI and companies jump onto digital content creation, AI copywriting tools have become a cool trick for folks who create content.  In the right applications, these AI tools pull a lot of weight in helping content creators develop more fitting writing in smarter, quicker, and smoother ways.  While these tools can gather chunks of info from the internet, they simply don’t have the human touch that adds an unbeatable flair to any writing.  However, they can help cut your work in half with the right guidance. Want to find out how? Read on for some of the best AI copywriting tools in 2023. ## Understanding AI Copywriting Tools AI copywriting tools are revolutionizing how content is created and curated for various platforms. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, these tools can generate high-quality written material efficiently and effectively.  ### How AI Copywriting Tools Work As AI copywriting tools continue to evolve, they’re proving indispensable for businesses and content creators seeking to [streamline their writing processes](https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=Awr93tl7sulkOhMWmeFXNyoA;_ylu=Y29sbwNncTEEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1693065979/RO=10/RU=https%3a%2f%2fwww.forbes.com%2fsites%2ftomdavenport%2f2020%2f11%2f10%2fthe-future-of-work-now-ai-assisted-writing-with-writercom-and-intuit%2f/RK=2/RS=wIgUzzjw1IC02sXEehDYj0R2Wtg-) and maintain a consistent and high-quality online presence. Understanding how these tools are crucial to improving your workflow: #### 1\. Natural Language Processing (NLP)  At the core of AI copywriting tools is Natural Language Processing (NLP), a branch of AI that enables computers to: - Understand - Interpret - Generate human language These tools use [advanced NLP algorithms](https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=AwrgLl1NtelkzlsVMAlXNyoA;_ylu=Y29sbwNncTEEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1693066701/RO=10/RU=https%3a%2f%2fwww.forbes.com%2fsites%2fforbestechcouncil%2f2018%2f07%2f02%2fwhat-is-natural-language-processing-and-what-is-it-used-for%2f/RK=2/RS=E54_d_8Fyg_2T_CUwkA7DT.kjGI-) to analyze text context, structure, and semantics, allowing them to mimic human writing patterns. #### 2\. Machine Learning Algorithms  AI copywriting tools utilize [machine-learning algorithms](https://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=Awr9_rahtelkhqsWQnhXNyoA;_ylu=Y29sbwNncTEEcG9zAzMEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Ny/RV=2/RE=1693066786/RO=10/RU=https%3a%2f%2fwww.forbes.com%2fsites%2flouiscolumbus%2f2021%2f02%2f21%2f10-ways-ai-and-machine-learning-are-improving-marketing-in-2021%2f/RK=2/RS=U6z6OO8tKFRVQLvXnykczw7CuHA-) to boost their performance over time. They learn from vast datasets of human-written content, adapting to different writing styles, tones, and industries.  As they process more data, they become better at generating coherent and contextually appropriate content. ### Types of Content AI Tools Can Generate Here are some of the projects these tools can help you with: #### 1\. Blog Posts  These tools can create engaging and informative blogs on various topics. You can use them to generate content that flows logically, incorporates relevant keywords, and adheres to the designated writing style. #### 2\. Social Media Captions  Crafting catchy and concise captions for social media is made easier with AI. These tools understand the nuances of different platforms and help generate attention-grabbing captions suited for each. #### 3\. Product Descriptions  AI excels at generating product descriptions highlighting features and benefits and creating a compelling narrative. This ensures consistent and enticing product descriptions across an e-commerce catalog. #### 4\. Email Campaigns  Generating personalized and persuasive emails becomes more efficient with AI. These tools can [generate email content](https://alejandrorioja.com/moosend-review-an-email-marketing-solution/) that resonates with recipients, leading to better engagement and conversion rates. ## Top 5 AI Copywriting Tools for Blogs Each AI copywriting tool brings unique features to the table, catering to different aspects of the content creation process. Bloggers can leverage these tools to save time, maintain consistency, and elevate the quality of their blog posts. Here’s a closer look at some of the leading AI copywriting tools, along with their standout features and common use cases:  ### ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/t4CEqmcU8_CQytpsBgvMCSbBXHvzQqkZBfNn6vfa-PDpJtlMqu87xSuYfPzC7kSLu1qmhbcNgRxXsz68QE_Kz9FwFn-mKkhwCD_praY5ZcspyHj0VOGQlTdu9UoXWv_4BaXt4We4rG6SyJW7v0ZyB40) ### 1\. OpenAI’s GPT-3 OpenAI’s GPT-3 is suitable for bloggers aiming to streamline content creation, explore new topics, or generate content for different platforms with minimal effort. Some of its top features include: - **Versatile Content Generation**: GPT-3 can create diverse forms of content, including blog posts, social media captions, product descriptions, and more. - **Natural Language Understanding**: It comprehends context and generates content that aligns with the provided prompts, making it capable of producing coherent and contextually relevant articles. - **Adaptability**: This exceptional tool can mimic various writing styles and tones, adapting to specific brand voices or content requirements. - **Content Expansion**: Expanding ideas, as the tool, can suggest related subtopics, making it easier to produce comprehensive articles. - **SEO Optimization**: To make [content optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/user-optimization-principles/) a breeze, it’s also designed to suggest relevant keywords and phrases. ### ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Gar6MxUEmcGHV0ntQTwt8cUf5jIICYFsWHBG8wSFQrhD4bFhVOn2pjxB6lfKDGK0BLaW6SHmQDaY1ToBcm377ZW75s3YtcGsp4o0mPahhNA_9ZjM3qT9ZZuQfF0TJov8LmY1HLBAKDZsiFtW7JSgzYA) ### 2\. ConversionAI This tool is particularly useful for maintaining a consistent posting schedule. Other stand-out features include: #### AI-Powered Content Generation and Expansion Powered by OpenAI’s GPT-3, this tool offers advanced content generation capabilities. It can produce high-quality articles, blog posts, and other written materials with remarkable coherence and relevance. The tool can also expand a brief topic or idea into a comprehensive article, making it an excellent solution for bloggers seeking to create in-depth, informative content. #### Content Strategy Planning  Use ConversionAI’s idea-generation capabilities to brainstorm new angles and topics for your blog’s content calendar. #### Tone and Style Customization  ConversionAI lets users tailor the tone and style of the generated content to match their brand’s voice. This ensures consistency and authenticity across all blog posts. #### Conversion-Oriented Copy  As the name suggests, ConversionAI is designed to help create [content that converts](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/). It can generate attention-grabbing headlines, persuasive calls-to-action, and engaging narratives to drive reader action. #### Idea Generation  Beyond just generating content, ConversionAI can assist in brainstorming content ideas. If you’re facing writer’s block, the tool can provide creative prompts to kickstart your writing process. ### ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/AyCSDg7WRNaWUB-ajSlaw3qsv16xxRx9l1a4nSvXXd9oce3OqMOLMKxSZubMCTHAy180vI8Lwptj0rNBq3ybhueWbcMXBMjBBAY8dC-GG08PJ-tfARa_Gh7gteiuU5p_DHWKKNdA-hWMI5_BY6iKQKs) ### 3\. Writesonic Go for Writesonic if you’re the kind of blogger who wants to diversify their content output, generate ideas, and maintain a cohesive brand voice across different channels. Some of its features include: - **Multiple Content Types**: Writesonic offers various content types, including blog posts, product descriptions, social media content, and ad copies. - **Brainstorming Feature**: It assists in generating content ideas based on provided prompts, helping bloggers overcome writer’s block. - **Personalize Your Tone**: Writesonic enables customization of writing style and tone, ensuring consistency with your brand’s voice. - **Language and Translation**: The tool supports multiple languages, making it useful for bloggers targeting diverse audiences. - **Content Rewriting**: Writesonic can rephrase and rewrite content to create unique variations for testing or repurposing. ### ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zse8WnB7IUCkppDUtcpdWNxDlVuYTYKCAtxQHLWRHhioPONo1m7hJAe2dRa0auJUcZljLPOFKywdcECyvktPGPh4lk8AmcvjG8sZPLWmRPpxpUuS11hLegT3accEpzMmO4iYgh4MuXwlR_9sXsS7CTM) ### 4\. CopyAI CopyAI is an excellent choice for bloggers looking to create attention-grabbing headlines and improve their email marketing strategies. This tool generates compelling headlines and subheaders for articles and blog posts.  It offers AI-generated subject lines for email campaigns, increasing open rates and engagement. CopyAI-generated content variations can even be used for A/B testing to optimize engagement. ### ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/t9tHglIYuIvGR5eVU_TmnmB-Es046dDhlcaEsVz5srint_1phzHvGyH8TntFHqP59JHORYcdsbfx5awjfOulo6o2sLUwJ-3-eRsM3WVwKC0LXDwvufAMWi7fV7hAVVtOiR2lLL_B4bkVPhcf1EE5R-c) ### 5\. Articoolo Articoolo is suitable for bloggers who must cover various topics quickly and efficiently while focusing on SEO optimization.  Generation Articoolo creates articles based on provided keywords, making it useful for targeted content creation. It offers a speedy way to generate articles, which can benefit bloggers on tight schedules. Articoolo can also suggest related topics, assisting bloggers in covering comprehensive subjects. The tool specializes in creating concise and informative articles that get to the point. ## How to Choose the Right AI Copywriting Tool When selecting an AI copywriting tool for your blogging needs, it’s essential to consider various factors that align with your skill level, writing requirements, and budget. Understanding these tools’ key features can help you make an informed decision supporting your content creation goals. ### 1\. Skill Level and Experience Consider your familiarity with AI technology and your experience with content creation. Some tools are designed with user-friendly interfaces and guided workflows suitable for beginners, while others offer more advanced customization options that may require a certain level of expertise. ### 2\. Specific Writing Needs Assess the types of content you plan to generate regularly. Different AI tools excel in producing various content formats, such as: - Blog posts - Newsletters - Social media captions - Product descriptions Choose a tool that aligns with your primary content creation requirements. ### 3\. Budget Constraints Determine your budget for an AI copywriting tool. Some tools offer free trials with limited features, while others have a subscription-based pricing model. ### 4\. Key Features to Look For Select a tool that enhances your content creation process, improves efficiency, and enables you to produce compelling blog posts that resonate with your readers. Some of the key features to make sure your tool has are: - NLP Capabilities - Content Customization - SEO Optimization - Language and Tone Accuracy - Multilingual Support - User-Friendly Interface - Integration Options - Plagiarism Detection - Idea Generation - Editing and Proofreading Assistance ## Pros and Cons of AI Copywriting Tools It’s important to weigh these pros and cons based on your specific blogging needs and goals. While AI copywriting tools can enhance efficiency and offer valuable support, human creativity, editorial input, and ethical considerations should remain central in your content creation strategy. ### Pros of AI Copywriting Tools Here are some benefits of investing in an AI copywriting tool: #### 1\. Time Efficiency AI copywriting tools can significantly speed up the content creation process. They can generate drafts, ideas and even complete articles quickly, allowing bloggers to focus on other aspects of their work. #### 2\. Reduced Writer’s Block Writer’s block can be a significant challenge for bloggers. AI tools can inspire and generate ideas when creativity is low, helping writers overcome blocks and get back to producing content. #### 3\. Consistency in Tone Maintaining a consistent tone and style across all blog posts can be challenging. AI tools can replicate the desired tone, ensuring a uniform voice throughout your content, crucial for brand identity and reader engagement. #### 4\. Multilingual Support For bloggers targeting a global audience, AI copywriting tools that offer multilingual support are invaluable. They can generate content in multiple languages, enabling you to reach a broader range of readers. ### Cons of AI Copywriting Tools These tools are perfect, so it’s important that users are aware of the shortcomings associated, so as to use the tools efficiently: #### 1\. Potential Lack of Creativity AI tools excel at generating content based on patterns and data, but they might lack the genuine creativity that comes from human thought. They might struggle with producing truly unique or innovative ideas. #### 2\. Need for Human Editing While AI-generated content can be a great starting point, it often requires human intervention for refinement. Editing is necessary to ensure coherence and accuracy and to infuse the content with a personal touch. #### 3\. Ethical Considerations Using AI to create content raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding transparency. Readers should be aware if AI generates content to maintain trust. Additionally, concerns about plagiarism might arise if AI-generated content closely resembles existing human-authored work. ## Make Writing Easier With AI  In the end, choosing the best AI copywriting tool comes down to what you, as a writer, need and the kind of content you’re aiming to create. The real test lies in trying out these tools and seeing which one clicks with your style and requirements.  However, remember that while AI can be a fantastic ally, it’s still crucial to fact-check the content it generates to make sure it’s accurate and reliable.  Enjoyed this blog? Check out my other AI tool tips to learn more: - [Exploring Beyond ChatGPT: 14 Mind-Blowing AI Tools You Must Try Right Now](https://alejandrorioja.com/mind-blowing-ai-tools/) - [Top AI Image Enhancer Tools & When To Use Them](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-image-enhancer-tools/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2023 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) Be sure to drop a comment below on what other copywriting content you’d like to read about! --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## How To Create A Wikipedia Page: A Step By Step Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-create-a-wikipedia-page/ Published: 2023-08-29 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Business ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Creating a Wikipedia page is a rewarding endeavor involving careful research and a commitment to accuracy and neutrality. By familiarizing yourself with Wikipedia’s notability criteria and crafting well-structured content, you can contribute valuable information to a global audience.  As you navigate the process, you’re not just creating a page—you’re becoming a part of a dynamic community that values the power of shared knowledge. Your contribution can potentially leave a lasting impact and enrich the digital landscape for future generations. In the digital age, where information spreads like wildfire and knowledge is at our fingertips, the significance of reliable sources cannot be overstated.  Among the vast expanse of the internet, Wikipedia stands tall as a beacon of accurate, easily accessible, and collaboratively curated information.  The collaborative nature of Wikipedia ensures that information is continually updated, reviewed, and refined, making it a trustworthy destination for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the world. But the importance of Wikipedia extends beyond its role as a trusted information hub. Whether an academic, a business, or an artist seeking recognition, read on to learn how to create a Wikipedia page that can provide an invaluable platform to a global audience. ## 1\. Understanding Wikipedia Guidelines Comprehending Wikipedia’s guidelines is paramount for successfully contributing to the platform. Central to Wikipedia’s core content policies include the following:  - Verifiability – requires that reliable and published sources support all information added to articles - Neutrality – mandates presenting information objectively, avoiding bias or promotional language - Avoidance of no original research – prohibits adding unpublished theories or personal interpretations Additionally, navigating Wikipedia’s Manual of Style is crucial for adhering to formatting and writing guidelines. This guide directs structuring articles, citing sources, and maintaining consistency across pages.  ## 2\. Preparing to Create a Wikipedia Page Preparing to create a Wikipedia page involves several key steps to ensure a successful and credible entry.  Begin by thoroughly understanding Wikipedia’s notability criteria, which require that the subject—a person, organization, event, or topic—has received significant coverage from reliable, independent sources.  Follow this up with research to confirm that your chosen subject meets this attention threshold. Lastly, gather a range of reliable sources to establish the subject’s notability, such as: - News articles - Academic publications  - Books - Reputable websites Diverse sources enhance credibility and demonstrate the subject’s importance, so ensure that these sources are independent and verifiable, as Wikipedia prioritizes information that can be fact-checked.  ## 3\. Creating a Wikipedia Account Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register a Wikipedia account: 1. Open your web browser and navigate to the Wikipedia homepage at www.wikipedia.org. 2. Find the “Create account” link and click on it to start the registration process. 3. Provide a valid email address. 4. Create a strong password for your account.  5. Confirm your password to ensure accuracy through CAPTCHA. 6. Add a Recovery Email. 7. Familiarize yourself with Wikipedia’s terms of use, privacy, and copyright policy.  8. Return to the Wikipedia homepage once your account is created and verified.  ## 4\. Choosing a Title and Starting a Draft Selecting an appropriate and concise title is crucial as it reflects the subject’s essence and aids discoverability. A clear title helps users quickly understand what the page is about.  To begin drafting, consider using Wikipedia’s sandbox feature, a virtual space where you can experiment with formatting and content without affecting actual articles. This allows you to refine your draft before publishing.  Also, explore the Wikipedia VisualEditor, a user-friendly tool for editing that simplifies the process, making it easier to create and format content. ## 5\. Writing and Structuring the Content Writing and structuring content for a Wikipedia page requires close attention to detail and adherence to Wikipedia’s guidelines. Here’s a brief overview of each step: ### Crafting a Concise and Neutral Introduction Begin with a brief introduction that provides a general overview of the subject’s notability and key points. Maintain a neutral tone, staying away from promotional language.  The introduction should give readers an immediate understanding of who or what the page is about. ### Organizing the Page into Sections Divide the content into well-organized sections such as “Early Life,” “Career,” “Achievements,” “Legacy,” etc.  This creates a logical flow and makes it easier for readers to access, navigate and comprehend the information. Use subheadings to break down each section further if needed. ### Incorporating Relevant Information from Reliable Sources Populate each section with information drawn from [reliable and verifiable sources](https://www.forbes.com/sites/averyblank/2021/01/19/5-ways-to-identify-reliable-sources-and-maintain-your-credibility/?sh=24ab54765aa9). These sources might include news articles, books, academic journals, and reputable websites.  Ensure that the information presented is notable and has sufficient coverage in these sources. ### Using Proper Citations to Validate Facts and Claims Cite your sources using in-text citations. A reliable source should back each statement, fact, or claim. This adds credibility to your content and enables readers to verify the information.  Use the citation style Wikipedia recommends, typically using tags with corresponding references in the “References” section. As you write and structure the content, prioritize a neutral tone and strive for a balanced subject representation. Regularly review and revise your content to maintain accuracy and compliance with Wikipedia’s guidelines. ## 6\. Reviewing and Proofreading Thoroughly [review each section](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2020/01/06/editing-matters-10-practical-tips-to-improve-your-editorial-process/?sh=552b209644d7) to verify the accuracy of the information, confirm proper citation placement, and assess the overall flow of the content.  Be sure to utilize Wikipedia’s “Preview” feature to see how the page will appear to readers before publishing it. This allows you to identify formatting or layout issues and make necessary adjustments. Also, take the time to proofread the content for grammar, spelling, and clarity.  Well-written and error-free content enhances the page’s professionalism and readability, contributing to a positive user experience. By meticulously reviewing and proofreading your work, you contribute to the overall quality and reliability of the Wikipedia page. ## 7\. Keep Things Neutral Maintain a neutral tone, avoiding any promotional language that could compromise the page’s credibility. Strive for a balanced subject representation, presenting information objectively and backed by reliable sources.  To submit your draft for review by Wikipedia editors, access the “Submit your draft for review” link at the top of your draft page. This initiates the process of having experienced editors evaluate your work for adherence to Wikipedia’s guidelines, neutrality, and notability criteria.  While reviewer feedback can be insightful, it might also pose challenges if substantial revisions are required. By addressing potential challenges and feedback constructively, you contribute to a Wikipedia page that is both informative and compliant with the platform’s principles. ## 8\. Finalizing and Publishing the Wikipedia Page In the final step, you have the opportunity to enhance your content by uploading images, charts, and other multimedia elements that are relevant and properly licensed. These [visual aids](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-image-enhancer-tools/) can add depth and context to your page’s information.  Once you’re satisfied with the content and layout, and after addressing any reviewer feedback, you can take the last step by clicking the “Publish” button. This action makes your page public and accessible to Wikipedia’s global audience.  Remember that Wikipedia is a collaborative platform, so other editors might continue to refine and improve the page over time. ## 9\. Maintaining and Updating the Page Maintaining and updating a Wikipedia page is an ongoing responsibility that ensures the accuracy and relevance of the content. Regularly review the page’s information to verify its accuracy and update it with new developments or changes.  Monitor the “View history” tab to track edits made by others and ensure the integrity of the content. Additionally, be vigilant for potential vandalism or disputes that might arise.  If you notice inaccurate information or contentious edits, address them promptly by engaging in discussions on the article’s “Talk” page or reverting changes that violate Wikipedia’s guidelines.  ## Benefits of Creating a Wikipedia Page: Wikipedia is one of the most widely used and trusted online information platforms. Here are some of the key advantages: ### 1\. Credibility and Authority A Wikipedia page lends credibility to your identity or organization. It serves as an independent validation of your achievements, affiliations, and contributions, reinforcing your reputation within your field. ### 2\. Increased Visibility Wikipedia pages often [rank high in search engine results](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google/), contributing to your online visibility. This increased exposure could open up more opportunities, partnerships, and connections. ### 3\. Permanent Record Once published, a Wikipedia page becomes a lasting record of your legacy. It captures key milestones and information, ensuring that your story endures for future generations. ### 4\. Improved Search Engine Optimization (SEO) A Wikipedia page can positively impact your SEO efforts. The page can rank high on search engine results pages (SERPs), leading to better organic search visibility and potentially [higher website traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/). ### 5\. Detailed Information Wikipedia allows you to provide comprehensive information about your business, its history, products, services, achievements, and notable milestones. This could potentially help customers and partners understand your business better. ### 6\. Controlled Information  By creating and maintaining your own Wikipedia page, you have more control over the accuracy and presentation of your business information than leaving it to others to edit. ### 7\. Showcasing Notability To have a Wikipedia page, your business must meet certain notability criteria, which usually involve receiving significant media coverage or recognition. This can serve as a testament to your business’s significance and achievements. ### 8\. Brand Awareness and Exposure A Wikipedia page could be used to introduce your business to a [broader audience](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexledsom/2020/10/03/improving-wikipedia-pages-leads-to-big-tourist-dollars/), including those who may not have been familiar with your company before. This can help in building brand awareness and recognition. ### 9\. Reference for Media and Partners Journalists, bloggers, and potential partners often use Wikipedia as a source of information. A well-crafted Wikipedia page can provide accurate details for media outlets and collaborators to reference. ### 10\. Historical Record Your Wikipedia page can serve as a historical record of your business’s evolution, growth, and contributions over time. It can capture important events and milestones for future reference. ### 11\. Global Reach Wikipedia has a global user base, so people worldwide can access your business information. This can be especially beneficial if your business operates on an international scale. ## Where this leaves us In the vast landscape of the internet, Wikipedia is a beacon of collaborative knowledge sharing. Within this place, countless minds come together to illuminate the digital realm with information and insight.  As you conclude your journey through creating a Wikipedia page, remember that this isn’t just about crafting articles—it’s about contributing to a global repository of wisdom. Whether you’re an expert, a passionate enthusiast, or someone with a unique perspective to share, your voice matters.  By creating Wikipedia pages, you’re immortalizing valuable information and fostering a sense of community and growth. So, let’s embrace this digital ecosystem, where curiosity knows no bounds and knowledge is as boundless as the human imagination.  Join the Wikipedia community, let your ideas flow, and let’s collectively light up the internet with the brilliance of shared knowledge. Your contribution could be the spark that ignites a journey of discovery for countless others. Enjoyed the read? Check out more website-related content: - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google 2023🚀](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [Do I Need To Hire Writers for Niche Websites?—Top 15 Job Boards](https://alejandrorioja.com/do-i-need-to-hire-writers-for-niche-website-content/) - [How To Drive 10X Traffic To Your Website in 2023: Tips & Tricks](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/) Leave a comment on what other website-building content you’d like to see. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## The Ansoff Matrix in 2026 — Four Growth Strategies, With Real Examples Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-the-ansoff-matrix/ Published: 2023-08-16 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, Business TL;DR: Four growth strategies, plotted by risk: Market penetration (sell more of existing product to existing market — lowest risk), Market development (existing product, new market), Product development (new product, existing market), Diversification (new product + new market — highest risk). The matrix doesn't tell you which to pick; it tells you what risk you're choosing. ## Table of contents The Ansoff Matrix is one of the few strategy frameworks from the 1950s that still works in 2026 — because it's a *thinking tool*, not a prescription. Plot your growth options against two axes (market: existing vs new, product: existing vs new) and the four quadrants give you four very different risk profiles. This is the operator-grade walkthrough with current examples from companies executing each quadrant in 2026.
Ansoff Matrix
Strategy framework introduced by Igor Ansoff in 1957. Plots growth strategies on a 2×2 grid: existing vs new products, existing vs new markets. Each quadrant carries a different risk profile.
## The four quadrants
01
Market Penetration · Lowest risk
02
Market Development · Medium risk
03
Product Development · Medium risk
04
Diversification · Highest risk
The matrix's whole insight: not all "growth" is equal. The strategies in the bottom-right (Diversification) require fundamentally different capabilities than the ones in the top-left (Market Penetration). ## 1 · Market Penetration — sell more to who you already serve **Risk: lowest. Strategy: maximize wallet share within your existing customer base.** No new product. No new market. Just better extraction of the customers you've already won. How to execute: - Price optimization, bundling, upgrade tiers - Loyalty and retention programs - Increase usage frequency - Reduce churn **2026 example:** **Costco's price/membership levers.** Each membership-fee increase (Executive Gold to $130/yr in 2024 was the most recent) is pure market penetration — same product (the warehouse) to the same market (US shoppers), just a higher revenue per customer. **2026 example:** **Netflix's paid-sharing crackdown.** Same product (streaming subs) to the same market (households already using Netflix), just now monetizing the previously-free extra-member relationships. Added ~22M net subs above prior trend. ## 2 · Market Development — same product, new market **Risk: medium. Strategy: take a working product into adjacent segments or geographies.** You know the product works. You're now testing whether it works for new buyers. How to execute: - Geographic expansion (new countries, regions) - Adjacent customer segments (B2C → SMB, SMB → enterprise) - New use cases for an existing product - New distribution channels **2026 example:** **Notion entering schools and universities.** Notion's product is essentially unchanged from its mid-2010s release, but they spent 2023–2025 building education-specific go-to-market — free for students, dedicated education plans, integration with Google Classroom. New market for the same product. **2026 example:** **Stripe pushing into India and Latin America.** Same payments infrastructure, materially new local-payment-method integrations, but architecturally the same Stripe. ## 3 · Product Development — new product, existing market **Risk: medium. Strategy: build new products for buyers who already trust you.** You know the market and have distribution. You're testing whether you can build something they'll buy. How to execute: - New product lines for existing customer base - Subscription tier additions - Adjacent product categories - Vertical integration into your supply chain **2026 example:** **Apple Vision Pro launching to existing Apple buyers.** Same buyers (Apple customers with $3,500 to spend on a new toy), genuinely new product (mixed-reality headset). Vision Pro materially undersold projections — a useful reminder that "same market" doesn't guarantee adoption of a new product. **2026 example:** **Cloudflare adding Workers AI to existing Cloudflare customers.** The customer (developer/CTO using Cloudflare for CDN + Workers) is already there. The new product (LLM inference on edge) is novel but maps to existing infrastructure relationships. ## 4 · Diversification — new product, new market **Risk: highest. Strategy: build something new for buyers you don't know.** You're betting on both market entry and product success simultaneously — independent probabilities that compound. How to execute: - M&A into unrelated categories - Greenfield product builds into new verticals - Platform plays that change what the company is **2026 example:** **Amazon's Project Kuiper (satellite broadband).** New product (satellites + ground stations + consumer modems), new market (rural broadband customers). Different from AWS, different from retail, different from Prime Video. **2026 example:** **Netflix entering games.** New product (interactive games), new market (mobile gaming users who weren't necessarily streaming subscribers). Still in the "engagement metric" phase rather than the "real revenue line" phase — the prototypical diversification trajectory. ## Penetration vs Development vs Diversification — risk vs reward
Penetration
Low risk
Mkt Dev
Medium
Product Dev
Medium
Diversification
Highest
_Directional. The actual risk of each quadrant varies by company and execution; the rank-ordering rarely does._ ## How to actually use the matrix in 2026 The Ansoff Matrix isn't a recommendation; it's a *clarifier*. Use it like this:
  1. 01
    Map every growth option you're considering into a quadrant. "Launch in Canada" is Market Development. "Sell to a different ICP" is Market Development. "Build a paid analytics product" is Product Development. "Acquire a logistics company" is Diversification.
  2. 02
    Stack-rank them by your honest probability of success. Most teams discover their highest-confidence options are clustered in Penetration + the closer quadrants.
  3. 03
    Pick the lowest-risk option that meaningfully moves the number. If Market Penetration moves you 20% but Diversification has a 10% chance of moving you 200%, the EV calculation matters — and so does your appetite for variance.
  4. 04
    Pre-commit to what kills each option. Specifically: at what point do you cut a Diversification bet? Most companies don't decide this upfront and end up over-committing.
## The 2026 update — does it still work? The Ansoff Matrix predates the internet, social media, the cloud, and AI. It still works in 2026 because the underlying insight (risk increases as you change either axis) is platform-independent. What's changed: - **Distribution costs collapsed**, making Market Development (new geos, new segments) cheaper to test than it was in 1957 - **Product development costs partially collapsed** (AI-assisted dev) but expectations got higher (users expect polished products from day one) - **Diversification risk got worse** for capital-constrained startups; better for capital-rich incumbents (because failed bets are cheaper to write off) ## Bottom line The Ansoff Matrix is a 67-year-old framework that still works because the core insight — risk increases when you change either axis — is fundamental. The 2026 update is mostly about what specific moves *cost* (distribution is cheaper, expectations are higher) rather than what the moves *are*. For operators: use it to clarify which growth options you're considering and what risk profile you're picking. Don't use it to pick the option — that's your job. > Related: [BCG Matrix examples](/bcg-matrix-with-examples/) · [Land and expand strategy](/land-and-expand/) · [Top of mind awareness](/what-is-top-of-mind-awareness-toma/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Everything You Need To Know About Price Skimming Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-price-skimming/ Published: 2023-08-15 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line According to the pricing strategy known as “price skimming,” a business will initially set its beginning price as high as its target customers will bear before lowering it over time.  To cater to a different, more price-sensitive segment of the market, the company lowers the price as the needs of the initial clients are met, and competition enters the market.  In contrast, the penetration pricing model emphasizes pricing a product lower at launch to gain the largest market share possible. When launching a new company or product, one thing I always advise business owners is to decide on a wide range of pricing tactics. While price skimming may not be a feasible long-term strategy, it can help you increase your earnings when introducing a new product.  Price skimming is a popular pricing approach for first-movers with little to no market rivalry. Of course, the more people your product will likely appeal to, the better.  So how can you create a [pricing strategy](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2019/11/26/three-steps-to-choose-your-pricing-strategy/amp/) for your product that doesn’t limit its appeal? How do you target the wealthy, upper-market groups without alienating others with lower willingness to pay levels? Skim pricing is one method for achieving that. It’s a hard strategy that not all businesses should adopt.  However, if you understand how price skimming operates and use it well, it may give you an unmatched competitive edge. It can also assist in [growing your client base](https://alejandrorioja.com/driving-business-growth-the-role-of-customer-experience-analytics/) and market share, as well as significantly enhance revenue and the regard in which your product and business are viewed. But what exactly is price skimming? Learn everything you need to know, starting with our definition of price skimming. ## What Is Price Skimming? What exactly is price skimming, then? Skim pricing is a product pricing method where a business sets the highest initial price for a product and gradually reduces it. Price skimming refers to the practice of a business “skimming” consumer groups by gradually lowering the price.  Skim pricing is another name for price skimming. Most businesses that adopt this price strategy create new items, so there isn’t much rivalry at launch time and no pricing pressure. Businesses may resort to price skimming if they encounter any one or more of the following circumstances: - The business has a strong brand and is consumer base - The service or product is new or [ground-breaking in the market](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2017/10/24/18-steps-to-take-before-you-launch-a-product-or-service/) - There is no competition - The vast number of potential buyers for the good ## How Does Skim Pricing Work? Usually, when a new product is launched into the market, price skimming is used. The manufacturer of that goods chooses the highest price point that consumers are willing to pay.  This enables the business to generate as much revenue as possible when there is little competition and sufficient demand. By doing this, the business may swiftly recoup its expenditure on product development.  The business relies on innovators and early adopters during this initial stage of price skimming. For instance, in the tech sector, these individuals are constantly looking for the newest advancements and cutting-edge equipment to purchase.  Those would be the trendsetters in the fashion world who are constantly looking to purchase brand-new designs for the upcoming season. These are the ones who are price agnostic and willing to take some risk. The product is then positioned as a “must-have” and “the best in its category” in price-skimming marketing.  The first phase is complete when the demand is satisfied at the highest price. It’s the right time for a price reduction because competitors usually enter the market by then. The company can maintain its competitiveness thanks to this system of dynamic pricing.  A second stage of the price skimming approach begins when the price is reduced. More price-conscious buyers start purchasing the goods due to the follow-on price’s attractiveness. Theoretically, this would result in more things being sold and more money being made. Since the competitors would be employing penetration pricing, the lower price would also put further pressure on them as they try to enter the market now. ## When Is Price Skimming Appropriate? I frequently get the question, “Which items are excellent for price-skimming?” There is no one correct response, but it is troubling that some product types respond to price skimming more favorably than others.  The finest products for price skimming are those that are linked to advances and are released frequently. Companies in the tech and fashion sectors, for instance, have excellent results when pricing their products in this manner. Typically, a price skimming method is appropriate when the demand curve is inelastic. This indicates that the price has little impact on the quantity of demand, and lowering it would only slightly increase sales volume.  Another prerequisite for price skimming to be effective is that there must be sufficient demand for the goods to justify the high price tag and that the price must draw in only a few rivals at a time. Price skimming is also acceptable when the high price is seen as higher quality. This is why it can be used with the “prestige pricing” psychological pricing technique.  However, it would be wise to be cautious. Customers may switch to a less expensive product if they choose a pricing point that is too high or if the price decrease occurs too late. This will reduce the volume of your sales.  Additionally, you risk upsetting your devoted clients if the price of the new product is significantly less than the initial price. If there is a significant price gap between two items, innovators and early adopters will feel duped, and if your business has done this previously, clients will start to put off purchases for a few months. ## The Principles Of Price Skimming  If you employ a price-skimming method, you’ll have to carefully monitor the course of your product after it is released.  The period right after your product’s debut is probably when enthusiasm for it will peak. You can quickly recoup the development cost and generate a steady first profit by focusing your early efforts on appealing to upper-market niches. In the first few months after launch, your product is also least likely to face direct competition. Additionally, you will have solidified your reputation with that initial wave of pleased clients by the time any competition for your product does materialize. You can then reduce your prices to enter the lower market levels. This can be a potent counter-tactic for any rival trying to neutralize your advantage through penetration pricing. ## Price Skimming Examples  Price skimming is a frequently employed tactic in the tech sector, as I previously stated. This price strategy is used by almost all tech juggernauts for at least some of their products if not all of them. Apple and Samsung are two excellent examples from the IT sector; they have used price skimming to [boost sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-the-best-guides-to-get-more-leads-traffic-and-sales/) and draw customers with great success. Giants in other industries also employ similar pricing techniques.  Nike, for instance, has a reputation for pricing its new products high and then decreasing them at the end of the season. Here are several instances of pricing skimming: ### 1\. Game Console  Sony’s selection of game consoles employs the price-skimming tactic. For instance, the business priced the PlayStation 3 console at £425 per unit, anticipating strong sales in light of the PlayStation 2’s popularity. The business also offered exclusive goods.  Sony had set a modest price for the PS2, but they anticipated that the PS3 would have many prospective buyers and raised the price at launch. Every year, the cost of the PS3 was reduced until it was discontinued at £249. ### 2\. Fashion Items  Fashion items are yet another excellent illustration of price skimming. Brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and others frequently launch new products at exorbitant costs before gradually lowering them over time. ### 3\. Online Stores  Online stores like [Amazon](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/walterloeb/2014/11/20/amazons-pricing-strategy-makes-life-miserable-for-the-competition/amp/) also employ price-skimming techniques. To draw clients, they frequently provide discounts and coupons before gradually raising prices as the need for the good or service grows. ### 4\. Mobile Phone Manufacturer  AFG Technologies makes mobile devices. The business created a cutting-edge phone that gained some attention. The 4GB variant costs £599, and the 8GB model costs £899 at launch. All of the phones were rapidly sold out.  Two months after the product’s first release, the business reduced the cost of the 8GB variant to £499. With its latest phones, AFG Technologies routinely employs a skim pricing strategy. It can significantly increase interest in its cutting-edge items to entice early adopters. A few months later, they lowered their prices to draw more customers. ### 5\. Innovative Service  Proprietary technology was recently created by Company T, a manufacturer of phones. To recoup its costs for R&D, the corporation implements a skim pricing strategy and sets its skim price at P1. After meeting demand at P1, Company T establishes a follow-on rate at P2 to put pressure on new competitors and draw in price-conscious clients. With its Q1 sales, Company T generates money = A + B according to its price skimming method. With its follow-on price, it produces additional revenue = C from sales of Q2 minus Q1 sales. With the sales from Q2, the company has a total income of A + B + C. ## Advantages and Disadvantages Of Skim Pricing  Price skimming has the benefit of allowing businesses to recoup sunk expenses, such as the high cost of R&D. Additionally, the producer maximizes profits from diverse target markets by periodically skimming the price till it reaches the supply-demand point.  When competitors take their time to catch up after extensive and complicated research and development, the seller has more chances to maximize market profits. Generally speaking, using a skimming method has the following advantages: - get back sunk costs - the market is segmented - uses minimal sales to reach break-even - The margin for retailers can be larger. Additionally, price skimming has certain clear drawbacks. The biggest of these is that it is only a viable strategy for a small number of businesses that invest so heavily in R&D that it is challenging for rivals to make goods or services that are exact replicas of their products. If not, rivals might create less expensive (and occasionally better) goods and services akin to what they provide.  The drawbacks can be listed as follows: - Only when the product follows the inelastic demand curve is it appropriate. - increase competition and make nature’s inelastic properties elastic - Customers occasionally decide to wait until the price drops A market-skimming technique is typically not practicable in an established and crowded market. One would have to provide goods that significantly outperform the competition in such a setting. ## Limits Of Skim Pricing  When applied for a short time, the skim pricing approach works best, allowing the early user market to fill up without losing price-conscious customers permanently. If a reduction in price occurs too late, customers might switch to cheaper competitors, losing sales and revenue. Skim pricing could not be as effective for any follow-up products from other businesses. Since the initial market of first adopters has been achieved, future customers might only buy a rival product at an increased cost, materially enhancing it over the original. ## Where this leaves us As you observed, price skimming is a tactic that has much potential. In practice, though, there are many things to consider before using this tactic.  Your pricing strategy and [marketing plan](https://alejandrorioja.com/e-commerce-marketing-guide-for-2022/) should complement one another. Additionally, the quality and innovation of your product must be sufficient to support the high price. The most important thing is to keep a watch on your rivals to prevent things like setting a price that is too high or dropping it too late. There you have it, then. This article has examined price skimming’s definition, methods, and illustrations. This article has given you further insight into price skimming’s operation and potential applications as a pricing technique. Thanks for reading. Did you find this helpful? If you’d like to read more about useful business tips, here are more articles to check out:  - [Top Tips For Optimizing Your Amazon Storefront](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-for-optimizing-your-amazon-storefront/) - [Your Guide To Starting An Online Store This 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/your-guide-to-starting-an-online-store-this-2022/) - [App Store Optimization Starter: A Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/app-store-optimization-starter-a-beginners-guide/) Comment below what other business-related content you’d like to see. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top PPC Tools For Enhanced Campaign Performance Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ppc-tools-for-enhanced-campaign-performance/ Published: 2023-08-10 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line PPC automation is like having special computer programs that make your pay-per-click ads work better. These programs use clever math and robots to figure out how to improve your ads. The best part is you don’t have to do all the hard work yourself. As a digital marketer who focuses on pay-per-click advertising, you’re always trying to make your ad campaigns agreeable and get the most out of your budget. Whether you’re new to PPC or have been doing it for a long time, some platforms can make your advertising efforts even more successful.  As a digital marketer focused on pay-per-click advertising, you’re always looking for ways to optimize your ad campaigns and get the most out of your marketing budget.  Fortunately, many useful tools are known to help analyze your PPC performance, improve ad copy, and increase your return on investment.  Whether you’re just getting started with PPC or have been running campaigns for years, these platforms can help take your advertising efforts to the next level.  In this article, I’ll explore some of the top PPC tools to add to your toolkit. ## What is PPC Automation? PPC automation uses software to optimize your pay-per-click advertising campaigns through algorithms and robots. Instead of manually managing each campaign, PPC automation handles the repetitive, time-consuming tasks for you. Basically, PPC automation tools can: - Track and optimize your keywords and ads to improve performance - Adjust bids to maximize your budget - Create new ads and ad variations to test different messaging - Provide reports and insights to help guide your optimization strategies ## What are PPC Tools? PPC tools are software designed specifically for pay-per-click advertising campaigns. They utilize automation and data to optimize your PPC ads and [improve campaign performance](https://alejandrorioja.com/responsive-display-ad-campaigns/). PPC tools automate repetitive tasks like: - Keyword research and selection - Ad creation and testing - Bid management They use machine learning and artificial intelligence to: - Analyze how your ads are performing - Adjust bids to get the most traffic at the lowest cost - Optimize your ad copy and landing pages - Detect opportunities to improve campaign results ## Best PPC Tools to Improve Your Ad Campaigns To enhance your PPC ad campaigns, you’ll want to use some of the best tools available. Here are a few of the top options: ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/wuO_Ksw89K0aQzJlJMafiHIT9caCDoUVDWWTLAivygKDRvNq634EF25-_KNB1gxjdC0d5v4GFWf9h6-iKCxgk-1QrjRnahesk8FADl_II_xMuCsSHR8_IlG5BSgkpwy7viYDfOk0VEophVgqaxHqo6c) ### 1\. Google Keyword Planner Google Keyword Planner is a free [keyword research tool for advertisers](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnhall/2022/10/02/how-keyword-research-and-search-intent-are-becoming-vital-to-marketing-strategies/?sh=406df41a2bb1). It helps you discover new keywords and see their estimated search volumes so you can optimize your PPC campaigns. With Keyword Planner, you can: - Get keyword suggestions based on your product, service, or website. - See keyword statistics like average search volume, competition, and suggested bid prices for both Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising.  - Discover longer, more specific keywords (known as long-tail keywords) that may be less competitive but still drive traffic. - Get keyword inspiration from Google Trends to see what people are searching for in your industry or areas of interest.  - See search volume estimates segmented by location and device type.  By determining the right mix of keywords to target, you can improve your click-through rates, decrease costs, and increase conversion rates. Spending time researching and planning your keywords upfront will pay off through a more successful PPC campaign. ### ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/EbusBhMr-Amj4hWbVveqi_LZaiGNHB5DZwD5xY1rAvgQH1wbShjqu46iBCOFXW8d0Rw_u6xp83leRfgv_ZlIJ7YPuBmFkcpc2kNdySjAoLEriPOPe30UArIrc9CAdIRk1DPnmhIbcq65SedWSCQ3xYc) ### 2\. SEMRush  Basically, SEMRush offers several useful features for researching keywords, analyzing competitors, and optimizing your ads. With this platform, you can filter keywords by search volume, cost-per-click, competition, and more.  SEMRush lets you analyze your competitors’ ads to see what’s working for them. You can see which keywords they’re bidding on, how much they’re spending, and which ads are generating the most clicks.  This helps you uncover opportunities to reach your target audience and determine how aggressive you need to be with your bids. Aside from that, [SEMRush’s Advertising Toolkit](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-vs-semrush/) provides all the tools you need to set up and optimize a Google Ads campaign in one place. With this, you can: - Build ad groups - Design text ads - Set bids - Choose devices and locations to target - View stats on your existing ads ### ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/67i-uNCjVbD13zFQDkqWuDCU6OexiG8ZOiASZauv9BYC8-a8hhfbsE0_W1_LhDuuOnuu6abGNj2AOduYDURwslKawo4bS47RCevzOEYJ7pbSmxu_ktEHkIR0CBXl6BvyvQ_K4i_7BL87em_e_ITzMdc) ### 3\. SpyFu SpyFu is a powerful PPC tool that provides key insights into your competitors’ advertising campaigns. It tracks millions of keywords across [search engines like Google Ads](https://fagenwasanni.com/news/googles-search-engine-and-scam-challenges/95628/) and Bing Ads to give you an edge. SpyFu’s dashboard is simple to navigate, with options to view data on your keyword campaigns as well as your competitors’. For your keywords, SpyFu supplies metrics like search volume, cost per click (CPC), and ad position to help you optimize your PPC strategy. Also, for advanced PPC marketers, SpyFu’s campaign analyzer tool equips customized recommendations to improve your Google Ads and Bing Ads performance. It analyzes your account and gives suggestions for adding negative keywords, improving your ad copy, fixing underperforming ads, and more. ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pKo-sI2_hXdCzuSELoHB7pWgMIF2hcoKt_8MrbqO1jJoSPwRXgHMDb9CfmhMua6URaUEO62HmIK-sPQDK6AW8AOgtvwyuE0Wv-mGo4wWtdT7qG2KfuaGJQDdm2X3zadkrVBK5UJ7MS6tggiPJ_XXsXU) ### 4\. Unbounce Unbounce is a popular tool used by marketers to create high-converting landing pages. With this platform, you can easily create custom landing pages by dragging and dropping elements like text boxes, images, buttons, and more. No coding is required. Aside from that, all pages created in Unbounce are automatically optimized for mobile devices. Your landing pages will look great on any screen size. Other than that, some of the key features that make Unbounce so effective are: - **Fast load times**: Unbounce focuses heavily on speed and performance. The pages you create will load in just a few seconds, keeping visitors engaged. - **A/B testing**: Easily create different versions of your landing pages and use Unbounce’s A/B testing tool to see which one converts the best.  - **Integrations**: Unbounce integrates with many popular marketing tools like MailChimp, Salesforce, Google Analytics, and more. You can connect the tools you already use to create a seamless workflow. - **Reporting**: Unbounce provides detailed reports and analytics on your landing pages so you can see metrics like conversion rates, page views, form submissions, and where visitors are clicking. Use these insights to optimize your pages. ### ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/MEhjxkH8laekgyhZpKQsyMQk4Qwt5Y3JKq4VmtB443pgQTip-3r2eYaq1VvKtyJtIet02iQyjd5eX4TigqBGn744mfPJ6IBG2tnnAgMxOfWvXfotooNHlgLmjUKCTeZDEgHoy4ObK5m-Jin_SMv5FWQ) ### 5\. Adespresso AdEspresso is a powerful PPC tool for managing and optimizing your Facebook and Google Ads campaigns. It offers many useful features to help improve your ads and increase conversions. AdEspresso allows you to A/B test every part of an ad, including images, text, landing pages, and placements. You can create multiple variants of an ad, and AdEspresso will automatically rotate them to find the best combination.  It provides in-depth analysis and optimization recommendations based on the results to further improve your ads. AdEspresso also offers an easy-to-use ad creation tool. You can select from their library of images, fonts, and color palettes to quickly design attractive ads.  Or, you can upload your images and customize the look to match your brand. They provide templates for different ad types like carousel ads, collection ads, and [dynamic product ads](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/03/02/dynamic-product-ads-on-facebook-why-are-they-so-powerful/?sh=4bd0c9f03450). Other key features of AdEspresso include: - Easily manage budgets, bids, schedules, and placements for all your campaigns in one place. - Get detailed insights into your target audience, like demographics, interests, and behaviors, to optimize who sees your ads. - Access customizable reports to track key metrics such as impressions, clicks, cost per click, and return on ad spend.  - Use rules and smart automation to optimize parts of your campaigns, like pausing underperforming ads or adjusting bids [based on your KPIs](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/). ### ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/h8oVud6lGX1RxcYzPFN6ghSlAUri4Zufp1ht-86xQ_E0mbPw0cbb9WpEKpuPSCqo_c5vVQazpwwNWnLUTJk7fY1xSTD0L04RyDh1l1AZWPzbHrss3M5dhz0u_4XLQlMINuuH25NXiUNPsQMpu61U2Yo) ### 6\. Optmyzr For PPC marketers looking to streamline account management, boost performance, and gain useful insights, Optmyzr is an invaluable tool. This platform’s automation and optimization features can help save time while improving campaign results.  Some of the key features Optmyzr offers include the following: - Campaign diagnostics to analyze account performance, like checking for issues like poor ad relevance, low CTRs, or high CPCs. - Automated bid management to optimize your bids and budgets. - Keyword research and groupings to build a robust keyword list. - Ad optimization to A/B tests different ad variations and finds the best performers. - Reporting and dashboards to monitor key metrics like impressions, clicks, CTR, CPC, and conversions.  - Opportunity alerts to notify you of issues that need attention or new opportunities to improve performance.  ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-QFlizLZJ0EFd0N2Ef73ZNAcPqbWxgQyOqgIuLM5hfJnJUrKsZkJJ4wOv1ZRJnA_7vuuUWNb3t67unXeX23lON6ubleoGYGyqCNBb3D4YoqIxZlQ0nwJxwIoaHe6layrayC3hO_7zrYAFGWrHExcE9o) ### 7\. Bing Ads Editor Bing Ads Editor is a free tool that allows you to manage your PPC campaigns efficiently. With this desktop application, you can make edits to campaigns and manage endless numbers of keywords. Advertisers can build out campaigns and make several changes at once using Bing Ads Editor. This allows you to optimize your account and make improvements faster than making changes one by one in the Bing Ads web interface. Bing Ads Editor allows advertisers to efficiently manage URLs, ad copy, and budgets. You can add or remove destination URLs for your ads, revise your ad text, and adjust daily or monthly budget amounts with a few clicks. The tool supports making changes at the campaign, ad group, keyword, and ad level. Some of the main benefits of using Bing Ads Editor include: - Save time by editing many campaigns and keywords at once. - Easily duplicate successful campaigns and ad groups. - Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up common tasks. - Offline access so you can work without an Internet connection. - Bulk import and export options to move data in and out. - Free to download and use. ### ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gOk0rIbRF67vLU89KyRdF9gGPJsuKAsCGoeAZRmIcIQZ0CpwvYkWoF7sAc0bz8EUru5ixV3yHQ9niREIQRqmqpw94b_WBQm0EZHYSZDPp1Fwuz10260kqv9WD--60t_ZzzZd6mim4gBTdbdoDaSRe6o) ### 8\. Ad Badger Ad Badger is a powerful pay-per-click (PPC) management tool for Amazon sellers. This software uses machine learning and human expertise to optimize your sponsored ad campaigns. Ad Badger offers a full-service PPC management service that handles the optimization of your campaigns for you. Their team of experts will analyze your account to determine the best keyword bids, ad copy, and budget allocation to maximize your return on investment (ROI). Ad Badger uses an algorithm to automatically adjust your keyword bids and ad copy based on their potential to drive revenue and remain within your budget. The software considers factors like: - Expected revenue per click versus cost per click of each keyword - Past performance and conversion rates of keywords and ads - Your competitors’ bids and ad copy This automation reduces the time needed to manually optimize campaigns and helps you avoid wasted spend. If you prefer to manage your own PPC campaigns, Ad Badger provides tools to streamline creating and optimizing ads. Their platform offers: - Keyword research tools to find high-performing keywords - Ad copy generators to quickly create multiple ads - Bid simulators to determine optimal bids for keywords based on your budget and goals ### ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FdYZ-yrSGRjDn5H901SNQSfsY_0aic2KUJcigWMre5pTIP7MUgvsaCffJPQF8Ag3COse8toZb9cx3Z-I-Ba7MpZoee4haXeUIAxgbv6Kg0m1pNuBp2MMok1Vu0y3rGSZvYENe1oWR7SuhawQTEscy4c) ### 9\. iSpionage iSpionage is a useful tool for improving your PPC campaigns. It allows you to research your competitors’ Google Ads to gain valuable insights. iSpionage provides data on nearly 100 million keywords from Google, Bing, and Yahoo. You can use iSpionage to: - Spy on your competitors’ ads to see which keywords they are bidding on.  - View your competitors’ ad copy to get ideas for your ads or see what messaging is working well for them.  - See your competitors’ landing pages to learn what kind of offers and content are converting for them.  - Check your competitors’ ad metrics, like impressions, clicks, and click-through rates.  - Conduct reverse keyword research to find thousands of long-tail keywords your competitors may be missing.  - Track changes in your competitors’ accounts over time to see how they are optimizing and improving their campaigns.  ## Grow Your Business With These PPC Tools Now that you have the tools and knowledge to enhance your PPC ad campaigns, it’s time to put them into action. While PPC campaigns need ongoing maintenance and adjustment, the rewards of increased traffic, conversions, and sales will be well worth the effort.  Stay up to date with the latest features and best practices, continue testing and tweaking your ads and keywords, and analyze your performance data regularly.  With the right PPC tools and techniques, you’ll boost your click-through rates, decrease costs, and achieve a high ROI from your advertising spend.  The possibilities for connecting with new customers and growing your business are endless. Like this post? Read more to expand your understanding of your PPC ad campaigns: - [The Steps You Need To Take To Improve Your PPC Campaigns](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-higher-ppc-ad-viewability/) - [5 Tips For Making Your PPC Campaigns More Profitable](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-tips-for-making-your-ppc-campaigns-more-profitable/) - [The Click Fraud Battle: How To Protect Your PPC Ad Spend](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-click-fraud-battle-how-to-protect-your-ppc-ad-spend/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## STP Marketing Strategy: Reaching Your Audience Effectively Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/stp-marketing-strategy/ Published: 2023-08-07 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line The STP approach is a three-pronged methodology that encourages inventiveness and seeks to set up and spread out distinct objectives and designated groups. Entrepreneurs must observe these three rules to precisely segment their patrons, create bespoke messages, and acquire relevant data.  By utilizing STP, firms can refine their marketing efforts by concentrating on a certain demographic and customizing services to satisfy their needs.  Customer profiles could aid your business in crafting an exhaustive comprehension of your intended audience so you can interact with and prioritize them more efficiently.  When you know who to reach out to for facts when essential, market research and product design will move along more seamlessly. The worth of your goods and services can be estimated using three STP marketing essentials. STP marketing necessitates partitioning the market, adjusting your advertisement to individual customer personas, and consistently evaluating your plan. ## The STP Model Conquer more customers by convincing them of the profits of continuing campaign formation and publicity. STP authorizes you to conduct thorough research, cultivate persuasive messages, and transmit your opinions to many people.  These three phases make up a sales pipeline: - Splitting the market up  - Uncovering your particular corner - Determining which position to offer the product in You can more accurately differentiate your potential buyers and concentrate on the characteristics that render them special through research-supported market segmentation.  It is essential to establish which market factions will create the most beneficial outcome for positioning and targeting to be successful. ## STP Marketing Explained The STP marketing technique categorizes your offerings into three distinct areas and examines how you put forth their worth to possible purchasers.  Thus, grouping customers, technical communication, and collecting data will be demanding for marketers who don’t abide by these three rules. ### 1\. Segmentation  Initially, businesses rely on analytical tools to divide future customers into smaller clusters based on common characteristics. The advertising department may divide potential buyers into sections depending on criteria, including age, area, salary, and how often they purchase. ### 2\. Targeting Splitting your spectators into lesser segments and noting their reactions can assist you in figuring out how successful your material is.  Review the number of individuals who conform to your best customer archetype, how proficient your publicity is, and how liable this group is to purchase your items. ### 3\. Positioning The ultimate aim of the positioning is to convey a unique communication that will resonate with the intended group. Additionally, the goal is to use language to distinguish you from the competition and persuade your target customers to purchase.  Selecting a certain demographic can help you tailor your marketing efforts and increase sales. STP marketing is advantageous for executing acutely specific promotional attempts since it permits you to split your consumer base into more controllable divisions. Almost three-fifths of customers declare that customization affects their purchasing decisions. Four in ten purchasers claim a tailored shopping experience would make them devoted to a single organization. In STP marketing, the purchaser is placed ahead of the product. Companies now have a fantastic chance to target a more specific audience and grasp the inclinations of their clients. If your targeting is more exact and individualized, you should foresee better outcomes from your promotional campaigns. ## Utilizing the STEP Method The acronym STEP is useful for remembering and explaining the STP marketing strategy. Positioning Equals Partitioning plus Precise Targeting. This formula illustrates why adapting your segment’s positioning and marketing strategy is crucial for optimal results. ### Segmentation The first step of the STP marketing strategy is segmentation. The main goal is to segment your potential customers according to various features and criteria.  There are typically four methods to segment your target audience: 1. Separate your target audience into subgroups depending on where they live and other demographic information (nation, region, state, province, etc.). 2. Marketers often divide the population of possible buyers into subsets called “segments” depending on characteristics like age, gender, level of education, profession, etc. 3. Behavioral segmentation allows for the subdivision of consumers into subgroups based on their shopping patterns, store visits, and product preferences. 4. Marketers use psychographic segmentation to reach certain population subsets with similar attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. ### Targeting Second, the STP model emphasizes focused efforts on a specific audience.  You will identify completed portions that are most likely to convert. These might be major, like purchasing a new product, or little, like signing up for an email address, depending on your marketing approach. 1. An expanding, highly profitable, and cheap-to-enter market niche is what you should be aiming for. 2. Think about the overall size of your market and its possibilities for expansion. 3. In terms of making a profit, it’s important to identify which customer groups are prepared to shell out the most cash for your offerings. See how much money you can make off of each category of clients and compare your results. 4. Assess how feasible it will be to get your marketing message out to each group. Consider each market niche’s CACs (costs to acquire a client). In other words, a higher CAC reduces profits. ### Positioning The last step of this framework is positioning, which aids in setting your product apart from the competitors in the eyes of your target audience.  You should be able to narrow down your specialty with relative ease now that you’ve considered the factors discussed in the first two steps. You may get a leg up on the competition by focusing on one of these three positioning factors: 1. Use symbols effectively to boost your customers’ feelings of self, belonging, or pride. For instance, the luxury vehicle industry sells a product that serves the same function as any other automobile but also boosts the buyer’s pride and social prestige. 2. By highlighting this practical facet of your business, you can position yourself as a problem-solver and deliver genuine benefits to your clients. 3. Putting your company’s name or product where the customer’s heart is. The most successful product positioning considers all three factors. If you need help visualizing this, a perceptual map tailored to your field might be useful.  Find out where your competitors and your ideal customers’ values stand. #### Positioning Strategies Positioning your goods or services concerning the competition within a certain market category requires you to identify how they excel above the competition. 1. Consumer-based positioning is adjusting your product or service to fit your intended market’s needs better. 2. It is normal practice to distinguish yourself from the competition to draw parallels between your company and that of a major opponent. 3. Positioning based on benefits necessitates demonstrating how buyers will profit from using your offering. 4. Positioning your product or service concerning its price means setting yourself apart via the value you provide to customers. 5. Keyword research and placement based on attributes – This requires honing down on a USP that makes your product or service distinctive from the competition, regardless of price or features. 6. To present your product as a symbol of prestige, you must demonstrate that it will elevate the buyer’s social standing. 7. The product positioning map is a tool whereby a company visually compares and contrasts its goods with its rivals. This makes it simple to compare and contrast the many items being shown and, in turn, to determine which ones need more priority or require adjustments to meet the demands of the business. Based on your analysis, decide which positioning model would best help you reach your target market. ## STP As A Planning Tool Rather than concentrating on the item, marketing plans that highlight “segmentation, targeting, and positioning” instead focus on the explicit customer groups who will obtain it.  This way, contact with the intended audience can be more specific and effective. Whether STP is considered during the arrangement stage, precise customer segmentation, positioning, and communication will always generate positive results. ## STP Marketing in the Digital World While virtual communication is a viable option for implementing STP practices, face-to-face meetings should be given priority wherever available. Using avatars rather than the tried and true approach of list segmentation permits the development of more efficient and interesting email campaigns.  Remember that additional funding is needed to ensure that persons from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds have access to information and communication technologies.  Customers’ preferences may be uncovered through clickstreams while looking for a service or product online.  Targeted Facebook status updates on niche interests like sports, wellness, and gardening. Behavioral advertising is targeting ads to people based on their online and email behavior (e.g. data analysis output). ## The Benefits of STP Utilization Suppose you are not yet persuaded that STP marketing will change how you do business. In that case, we will review some of the most important advantages offered over more conventional kinds of promotion. STP allows you to hyper-personalize your marketing efforts by targeting a certain audience and tailoring your offerings to meet their needs. When you personalize your approach to each customer, you can: - Knowing your target audience inside and out via consumer profiles may help your business communicate with greater warmth and care. - Your marketing mix will improve and provide a higher return on investment after you stop wasting money on channels your demographic isn’t seeing. - The effectiveness of market research and product creation may be enhanced by knowing whom to engage for information at various stages of development. With STP, personalizing your marketing communications should be less time-consuming and more effective. Instead of writing generalizations to interest as many people as possible, you’re gearing your speech toward the target audience you’ve identified.  In a perfect world, this would increase interest and involvement from the target audience, leading to increased sales from the advertising campaign. Like many other marketing processes, STP relies on efficient marketing analytics, allowing marketers to create and assess these segments.  Marketers will require marketing analytics systems with deep-dive capabilities to target certain demographics and customer behaviors successfully.  They can use this data to make smarter advertising decisions. ## Implementing STP in Your Enterprise The following are some other crucial recommendations to follow: - Ensuring that the market is substantial enough to be relevant and that clients can be reached easily. - Carrying out market research to verify that your strategy will result in an improved experience for customers already using your product or service - Consider the changes concerning your product or service as marketing technology continues evolving to serve digital marketers’ goals and requirements. With the STP segmentation, targeting, and positioning approach, businesses may better tailor their products and services to their most profitable customers. With this, it will be easier to establish campaigns and advertisements that will appeal to your targeted consumers and cater to their likes and requirements, increasing chances of purchase. Like what you see thus far? It will help if you read up on some more marketing advice articles. - [An Email Marketing Solution](https://alejandrorioja.com/moosend-review-an-email-marketing-solution/) - [Maximizing Your Ad Spend With Cost Per Thousand Impressions](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-beginners-guide-to-cpm-what-it-is-and-how-it-works/) - [How To Set Up Your E-commerce Business From Scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) Leave comments below to let me know what other topic you want me to cover. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Threads App Revealed: How To Stay Organized And Connected Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/threads-app-revealed/ Published: 2023-08-02 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Threads can be acquired, installed, and used in over 100 countries worldwide and are only available as an application on mobile devices running either Android or iOS. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Threads is a new application developed by Instagram allowing users to share updates and participate in public conversations. To use threads, you must first log in with your Instagram account. Posts can be up to 500 characters long and include links, pictures, and videos up to five minutes. Many of the same user data that Twitter gathers are also collected by Threads, including user content, contact information, search and browser history, device labels, purchase history, and financial data. Threads can be acquired, installed, and used in over 100 countries worldwide and are only available as an application on mobile devices running either Android or iOS. Nevertheless, the Web application is restricted to allowing users to view their profile pages. Posting a picture, a short video or just a few words hint about your long tiring day can sometimes be satisfying. The reactions we get, comments, and even views complete our day. It’s too shallow to think, but this is what social media platforms do to us.  And because of that, new platforms provide significant excitement and joy. It also opens opportunities for advertising and promotions, like the new Threads application from Instagram, where you can share, post, and [promote how you like it](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-story-highlight-how-to-use-it-for-brand-account/).  In this article, I prepared everything you need to know about the new Threads application. You can find it here from installing, posting, benefits, and how to use this application to your advantage. So keep reading! ## Why Did Meta Create Threads? Following the acquisition of Instagram by Meta in 2012, the mobile application has been subject to numerous updates introducing brand-new functionality.  Initially, the photo-sharing application known as Instagram was exclusively available for use on Apple’s iOS-based devices. Users were allowed to “like” and “comment” on the photographs their friends had uploaded using the app. Now, users can utilize [Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/) for video sharing, direct messaging, photo carousels, Reels, and Stories.  According to reports, Adam Mosseri, the CEO of Instagram, intended to integrate real-time chats into the platform but realized that it already had plenty of moving parts. As a result, they come up with the idea to create an application known as Threads.  ## What Data Do Threads Collect? Threads collect information the same way how Twitter collects data. This data includes user content, contact information, search and browser history, device labels, purchase history, and financial data. Aside from that, similarly to the data collected by Facebook, Instagram, and Whatsapp, Threads collects user information. This information includes users’ home addresses, statistics about their health and fitness, and sensitive information such as biometric and ethnic data. The data collection has similarities since Threads is linked to the Instagram application, and Meta owns Instagram. ## How to Have Threads App? Threads can only be downloaded as an app on Android or iOS mobile devices. You can access Threads on the web but only display the user’s profile pages.  To get the Thread app, look for “Threads” in your phone’s iOS App Store or Google Play Store. Get the app on your mobile device by downloading it.  You can use the existing Instagram credentials to sign in to access the Threads app. If you don’t have an Instagram account, you must create one before continuing. Threads will automatically use your Instagram login information if you are already a user of Instagram and have your Instagram account open on the same device.  However, if you’d prefer a different account, you can choose “Switch accounts” at the bottom of the screen. After choosing an Instagram account to sign up with on Threads, you must verify the information on your profile.  It is vital to remember that because Threads uses your Instagram account as its username, you cannot modify it there. You must modify your Instagram username to change it on Threads. ## How Threads Works The application perfectly incorporates Instagram’s look and interface to create a comfortable user experience. Additionally, Threads allows you to publish your material directly to Instagram Stories, extending its reach.  With the ability to unfollow, block, limit, and report profiles, you have ultimate control over your interactions. You can express yourself using text, links, pictures, and 5-minute-long films with a 500-character word limit.  Aside from that, with the help of threads, you may interact with others and [express yourself online](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) while still following Instagram’s community standards. ## What Can You Do Using the Threads App? ### Post, Like, and Share Contents Like the Instagram and Twitter applications, you can post, like, retweet, and share content on Threads. Posts can be up to 500 characters long and include links, photos, and videos of up to 5 minutes. However, since Threads differs from the two, some functionality is unavailable in the app.  ### Join the Conversation on Instagram Everyone who joins Threads under the age of 16 (or below the age of 18 in some countries) will automatically have a secret profile. On Instagram, you can find additional people who share your interests by following the same accounts that you do.  Threads can access all of Instagram’s essential accessibility features, including [screen reader](https://www.forbes.com/sites/sergeirevzin/2023/07/10/the-meteoric-rise-of-threads-and-its-future-as-a-twitter-clone/?sh=498c00a5355d) compatibility and AI-generated image clarifications. The threads posted by your following and suggested content from up-and-coming authors are displayed in your feed on Threads.  ### Tune Out the Noise Threads are constructed with tools that make it possible to have constructive and positive talks. You can control who mentions or responds to your post within a Thread.  In the same way, you may add hidden words on Instagram. This feature can filter out responses to your threads, including specified words.  To do this, tap the menu with the three dots; you can unfollow, block, restrict, or report a profile on Threads. Any profiles you have blocked on Instagram will also be blocked on Threads. ### Safety Measures and Community Guidelines Instagram Threads prioritizes establishing an enjoyable and [secure atmosphere](https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidwalcott/2023/07/10/threads-the-dawn-of-a-new-generation-of-healthy-social-media-discourse/?sh=dc8ca2b32b70) for its users. The application contains characteristics that give users authority over their interactions.  Users can decide who can mention them or comment on their threads, providing them greater authority over how they interact. In addition, it allows users to add hidden phrases to filter out responses that include specific terms, enabling a more customized user experience. Threads also stresses safety and respects Instagram’s community standards. The mobile application enforces these rules to ensure suitable content and interactions across the platform.  As part of Meta’s [commitment to user safety](https://gizmodo.com/live-top-amazon-prime-day-deals-for-2023-1850620946), they have spent extensively on personnel and technology committed to user protection, totaling over sixteen billion dollars since 2016. The company stays committed to growing its industry-leading integrity actions and improvements in Threads to protect the community. ## Limitations of Threads App ### Multiple Accounts Unfortunately, Threads only permits users to sign in with a single account at a time. However, users may be able to log in with numerous accounts.  In addition to this, you will not be able to swap profiles at any time. In this situation, the best thing to do is to sign out of your account and then use a different one to sign in. ### No Edit Option  Unfortunately, after a thread has been posted, users are not allowed to update it in Meta. You can delete it and post it again after integrating any suggested modifications. Even though Twitter recently launched the edit button, it is only accessible to those who subscribe to the Twitter Blue service. However, this does not rule out the possibility that Meta will provide the ability to edit threads before Twitter does; until then, we can only wait. ### Hashtags At this time, hashtags are not supported by threads. If you want your tweet to become viral on Twitter, hashtags are a must-have. However, hashtags in your Threads article will not deliver significant results.  Even though you can include hashtags on Threads, they are not clickable and do not contribute to the post’s reach. Hashtags might be added to the platform soon. However, a definitive timetable has not been established as of yet. ### GIFs The native GIF keyboard on Twitter is not [currently available](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forrester/2023/07/07/key-to-metas-threads-success-interoperability/) on Threads. However, you may be able to insert GIFs into a post or response if the keyboard that you use on your phone supports the feature. However, if you have an iOS or Android device, you can accomplish this task with the help of Google Keyboard. Other solutions are also available. You also have the option to manually upload the GIF that you downloaded to the relevant Thread. To begin, here is what you should do: 1. Open the Threads app on your mobile device. 2. Tap the “create post” icon and write what you want. 3. To insert GIFs, tap the paper clip icon to access your gallery. 4. Find the GIFs you downloaded  5. To start sharing GIFs, tap the “Post” button. Considering the application is still in its early stages, you could have trouble sending GIFs to others. There is a possibility that the Threads app will crash when you are sharing GIFs, videos, or still photos; you may need to attempt several times. ### Delete Account Option You must remove your Instagram and Threads account to delete your account successfully. The main reason is that your Instagram account is linked to your Threads account, and both share the same login details.  If you delete your Instagram account, your Threads account and all associated data will likewise be deleted, as stated in the Threads Supplemental Privacy Policy and a section accessible through the Help Centre. Because of this, if you want to continue using Threads, you should seriously consider it before removing your Instagram account. ### Direct Messaging The app does not currently offer an option to send messages to various other users within the app. This restriction is one of the most severe downsides of using Threads. When you want to send a message to someone, you have to move over to your Instagram account so that the message may be sent from there. ## How Similar is Threads App to Twitter? Twitter and Threads are platforms that serve different purposes and have distinct audiences. The innovative program.  Threads, developed by Instagram, provides a unique experience for people with a small group of close friends. It is a revolutionary platform for private social networking because it allows users to share posts, photographs, videos, and messages.  On the other hand, Twitter is a global platform that enables open expression of opinions and fosters dialogues among individuals, corporations, and public figures worldwide. Another illustration of this is how important hashtags are to Twitter and how heavily they are utilized on the network.  They allow users to quickly find postings relevant to a given text or topic and locate current trending information all in one consolidated location.  ## How Should Entrepreneurs Take Advantage of Threads Install the Instagram app Threads to establish closer ties with customers and create a sense of exclusivity among them. Threads were designed for confidential, tightly connected groups of friends.  Using Threads as an entrepreneur provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to communicate with your audience in a manner that is both more personal and more engaged, which, in the end, will build your brand image and drive business success.  Innovative apps such as Threads make communicating more deeply with select followers possible. This feature enables sharing of exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and exclusive offers. Also, Threads can help the user to cultivate a dedicated community.  You may boost the image of your company, establish deeper relationships, and tap into the power of intimate connections by using business tools like Threads. ## Install Threads App Now And Connect With Friends! For Instagram users, Threads has completely changed the game. Using this brand-new software, you will be able to interact and communicate with your closest friends in a more personal and concentrated manner.  Threads enable you to communicate with the people in your life who are most significant to you regarding your daily activities, thoughts, and feelings. It’s almost like having your very own limited social network right there within Instagram.  Nevertheless, despite its early success, the Threads app is still rather simple. Many features users enjoy using on Twitter, such as a desktop version, direct messaging, trending topics, and the option to modify tweets, are not yet available on this platform. However, executives at Meta have already hinted at their intent to continue developing Threads. You might want to keep an eye out for this particular thing.  Did you like this article? If you do, and you want to learn more about the latest trends or just want some pass time, you can read my previous blogs of similar content below: - [5 Must-Try Content Marketing Trends To Boost Your Traffic In 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) - [Unleashing Innovation: Exploring The Role Of An Entrepreneur In Residence](https://alejandrorioja.com/exploring-the-role-of-an-entrepreneur-in-residence/) - [Decoding Unicorn Startups: The Secrets Behind Their Success](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-are-unicorn-startups/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Exploring Beyond ChatGPT: 14 Mind-Blowing AI Tools You Must Try Right Now Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/mind-blowing-ai-tools/ Published: 2023-07-25 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Productivity TL;DR: ChatGPT is not the only amazing AI Tool out there, and I listed everything in this blog, so you can try it out and see what works best for you. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line The fast progress made in artificial intelligence has resulted in the development of a wide variety of revolutionary AI tools that are transforming various industries and improving our day-to-day life.  Along with ChatGPT, you should try out several well-known AI tools, including Dall-E 2, Jasper, Lumen5, Notion, and the well-known Canva and Grammarly. Exploring and using these mind-blowing artificial intelligence tools opens up innovation and transformation across various industries as AI advances. It’s frustrating when the AI Tool you’re using is not working properly, is down, or is temporarily unavailable. You can’t function, and all you can do is sit there and wait until the website or application has been fixed.  But this can be avoided if you have knowledge of the vast amazing AI tools available today. ChatGPT is not the only amazing AI Tool out there, and I listed everything in this blog, so you can try it out and see what works best for you.  These AI tools are like a box of chocolates; you never know what mind-blowing talents you will get! From language generation to image recognition and everything in between! So if you want to get to know them individually, keep reading! ## 1\. Dall-E 2 The OpenAI team also created the Dall-E model. This model uses neural networks to produce visuals from textual descriptions. There are several benefits to using DALL-E or comparable image-generating models, including: - Imaginatively applied to produce original, eye-catching artwork.  - Used in design, marketing, and content creation. - Generate distinctive pictures based on specific guidelines or concepts.  - Help with image synthesis tasks like augmented reality or video game applications. A written prompt or description of the intended image is typically given when using DALL-E or comparable models. Using the input provided, the model then creates an image. However, remember that the model’s training and the prompt can impact the resulting image’s quality and specificity. ## 2\. Jasper OpenAI developed the GPT-3 language model to [produce content](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) with a human-like voice, and Jasper uses this same model. Jasper AI is an AI content platform generator that can help you overcome “writer’s block” by generating original and fascinating content for you on your behalf.  The generation of short- and long-form content can be accomplished with a button. Jasper AI also offers Jasper Chat, an alternative to ChatGPT that acts like a chatbot. Using Jasper Chat, you can engage in a natural conversation with AI and obtain correct responses to your questions. ## 3\. Lumen5 Lumen5 is a [video creation tool](https://www.forbes.com/sites/rashishrivastava/2023/07/12/why-bill-gates-isnt-worried-about-ai-models-making-stuff-up/?sh=69b3c9b540e7) that allows users to turn text into appealing videos. It automatically analyzes text and produces matching video material using machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) techniques. If you want to make interesting films, Lumen5 has several benefits, including: - Streamlines the making of videos - Evaluates text content automatically and produces graphics - Speeds up the film-producing process and saves time and resources ## 4\. Stable Diffusion 2 Stable Diffusion 2 harnesses diffusion models’ power to [improve many applications](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-google-autocomplete-for-seo/), including image synthesis, data generation, and denoising. Using diffusion models and AI approaches, it provides many benefits.  One notable benefit is that they can generate new samples that closely mimic the training data, allowing for the creation of amazingly accurate pictures, music, and other data types.  Aside from that, they also excel at denoising activities, improving low-resolution photos’ quality by increasing resolution or removing undesirable noise.  Another amazing feature of Stable Diffusion 2 is its ability to detect anomalies. This function has great potential in various sectors, including fraud detection and detecting defects within large databases. ## 5\. Looka Looka is an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that allows users to create logos and branding assets. Looka’s advantages include: - User-friendly interface - Lower costs than hiring experienced designers  - The ability to generate unique and professional-looking logos Looka simplifies logo creation, allowing customers to [establish their distinctive](https://www.forbes.com/sites/hanktucker/2023/07/13/rich-colleges-in-america-headline-tktktk/?sh=53f3b7aa3f9d) brand identity fast and effortlessly. To begin using Looka, add your company name and brand and style preferences information.  Based on your input, Looka’s AI algorithms develop several logo ideas. You can personalize the designs by changing the colors, fonts, symbols, and layouts to reflect your vision.  When you’re happy with the final design, you may download the logo files in various formats across multiple platforms and apps.  ## 6\. Podcastle Podcastle is a platform for editing and recording audio that incorporates AI technologies. It enables the creation of clear and polished recordings that have a professional sound quality. This platform automates tasks like tidying up unclear audio and generating transcripts from recordings you have created using the system. ## 7\. Gen-1 Gen-1 is a ground-breaking technique that allows for word-and-image-based video-to-video synthesis. This type of generative AI uses pre-existing movies to create wholly new works.  One of the best features available in Gen-1 is stylization, which enables users to apply the style of any picture or prompt to each video frame, producing aesthetically beautiful transformations.  Additionally, it has a Storyboard where prototypes may be turned into fully animated, stylized visuals that bring ideas to life.  Gen-1 is a big step forward in AI-driven video synthesis, giving makers, designers, and artists controllable, accessible tools to create the [future of artistic expression](https://www.forbes.com/sites/darrynking/2023/07/10/criterion-collection-artists-on-their-criterion-covers-after-hours-and-the-trial/?sh=78a4f14f103a). ## 8\. Lalal.ai Lalal.ai is a cutting-edge artificial intelligence-powered platform made for improving and editing audio. Users are given strong features and tools to edit and change audio recordings.  One of Lalal.ai’s key advantages is its capacity to eliminate or isolate vocals from musical compositions or other audio tracks. This feature makes it simple for users to produce remixes, instrumental tracks, or karaoke versions.  Lalal.ai may also improve audio quality by lowering background noise, enhancing clarity, and modifying volume levels.  The software makes audio editing accessible to even those without prior knowledge because of its user-friendly interface and straightforward methodology.  You can use Lalal.ai by uploading audio files, choosing the desired alterations or upgrades, and then waiting for the AI algorithms to process the audio.  The edited files may then be downloaded and used in various artistic endeavors, including audio post-production for videos, podcast editing, and music creation.  ## 9\. Deep Nostalgia Deep Nostalgia is a groundbreaking technology developed by MyHeritage, a genealogy platform. It utilizes deep learning algorithms to animate and bring old photos to life.  This amazing AI Tool can create the illusion of movement in static images, making it seem like the subjects in the photos are smiling, blinking, or turning their heads. The benefits of using Deep Nostalgia are both personal and historical.  On a personal level, it allows individuals to connect more deeply with their ancestors by visualizing them more lifelike, fostering a stronger sense of familial connection and understanding.  Historically, Deep Nostalgia contributes to preserving and reviving the past by revitalizing old photographs, which helps bring historical events and figures closer to the present generation.  Using Deep Nostalgia is a relatively straightforward process. Users upload their chosen photograph to the MyHeritage platform, select the Deep Nostalgia feature, and let the AI algorithm analyze and animate the image.  ## 10\. Murf Murf is an advanced text-to-speech engine that offers a user-friendly solution for creating synthetic vocal recordings that sound remarkably natural across various applications.  With support for 15 different languages and an extensive selection of over 100 voices and accents, users can generate spoken content in diverse linguistic styles.  One of the key benefits of using Murf is its ability to automate the process of creating narration and voiceovers for various forms of content. This includes automated marketing campaigns and video materials.  By utilizing Murf, individuals, and businesses can save significant time and resources that would have otherwise been spent on hiring voice talent or recording studio sessions.  The engine’s advanced algorithms and deep learning techniques ensure that the resulting vocal recordings maintain high quality and authenticity.  You can easily integrate Murf’s output into your projects, seamlessly incorporating the synthesized voices into your marketing materials, videos, audiobooks, or any other applications requiring voice narration.  ## 11\. Legal Robot Legal Robot is an innovative platform that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to assist with legal document analysis and understanding.  By leveraging natural language processing and machine learning algorithms, Legal Robot aims to simplify complex legal language and make it more accessible to individuals and businesses.  One of the key benefits of using Legal Robot is its ability to save time and reduce the costs associated with legal document review.  Traditionally, reviewing legal documents can be time-consuming and expensive, requiring human lawyers to anlayze to contracts, agreements, and other legal texts meticulously. However, with Legal Robot, users can upload their documents to the platform, and the AI-powered system will automatically do the work. The platform’s user-friendly interface provides an accessible, cost-effective solution for document review, contract analysis, and compliance checks.  ## 12\. Grammarly Grammarly is an advanced AI-powered writing assistant that helps users enhance their writing skills and produce error-free content. It offers a range of benefits for individuals, professionals, and students alike.  One of the key advantages of using Grammarly is its ability to provide real-time grammar and spelling suggestions, ensuring that written communication is free from mistakes and typos.  Grammarly also offers contextual suggestions for style improvements, sentence structure enhancements, and vocabulary enrichment, helping users craft compelling and coherent writing pieces.  Additionally, Grammarly can detect and offer solutions for plagiarism, ensuring that content is original and properly cited. Grammarly offers browser extensions, enabling it to work seamlessly across different platforms and applications, such as web browsers, word processors, and email clients. It can also be accessed via a web editor or mobile app. Once installed, Grammarly automatically analyzes the text, underlining potential errors and providing suggestions for improvement. Users can accept or ignore the suggestions based on their writing style and intent.  ## 13\. Canva Users may create visually amazing designs with [Canva](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/canva/), an easy-to-use and adaptable graphic design software, for everything from social media graphics and presentations to posters and marketing materials.  The platform has many advantages for people and companies looking to improve visual content development.  One of its main benefits is Canva’s user-friendly interface, which doesn’t require any prior design knowledge. It offers a vast library of ready-made templates, premium pictures, icons, and fonts, enabling users to quickly and easily create designs with a professional appearance.  Canva also provides customization possibilities, enabling customers to modify pre-made templates or create entirely new ones, ensuring that the designs match their distinct identity and style.  Canva’s collaborative tools also allow team members to collaborate on design projects, increasing efficiency and promoting an organized, imaginative workflow.  [Canva](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/canva/) is available on various platforms because users can access it via a web browser or a mobile app. To use Canva, pick a template or begin with a blank canvas, tweak the design by adding text, images, shapes, and other components, and then save your work.  Once finished, you may print it out for physical usage or save it in different formats before sharing it online.  ## 14\. Notion Notion is a powerful all-in-one productivity tool that combines note-taking, project management, database organization, and collaboration features. One of the key advantages of Notion is its versatility and flexibility.  Users can create customized pages and databases to organize tasks, projects, notes, and information in a way that suits their needs.  Notion allows users to seamlessly switch between views, such as Kanban boards, tables, calendars, or lists, providing a comprehensive and adaptable workspace.  Collaboration is another significant benefit of Notion. Multiple users can collaborate on a document or project, making real-time edits, leaving comments, and sharing updates. This fosters teamwork and streamlines communication within teams or across organizations. To use Notion, create pages and organize them into hierarchical structures or databases. After that, add text, tables, and media or embed content from external sources to create rich and interactive documents. ## Work Easier Using AI Tools The technological innovations and involvement in artificial intelligence have resulted in the development of various revolutionary AI tools.  Aside from that, with the AI Tool’s assistance, individuals, corporations, and [researchers benefit](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-features-to-look-for-in-keyword-research-tools/) from higher productivity levels, creativity, and problem-solving ability. Compared to the traditional methods of living, AI Tools made a valuable and significant impact.  As AI advances, exploring and using its amazing capabilities opens up tremendous prospects for innovation across various industries. Sooner or later, you’ll be surprised how these AI Tools can transform everything, not just your lifestyle.  Did you like this article? If you do, and you want to learn more about AI tools and how to use them in everyday activities. It’s a good idea to read my previous blogs below: - [Top Alternatives To Chatgpt – What Other Chatbot Platforms Have To Offer](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-chatgpt-alternatives-what-other-chatbots-offer/) - [Top AI Image Enhancer Tools & When To Use Them](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-image-enhancer-tools/) - [Jasper vs. ChatGPT: The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## From Concept To Action: BCG Matrix With Examples Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/bcg-matrix-with-examples/ Published: 2023-07-19 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The BCG matrix model evaluates a company’s product line to assist in long-term strategic planning. The matrix assists in identifying new growth opportunities and formulating plans to ensure future investment success.  The matrix can determine the key elements that categorize whether a product is profitable. It also provides a thorough analysis of how products perform.  Despite its usefulness, the BCG matrix is a simple framework that might overlook some of a firm’s deeper components. Employing the BCG matrix has the disadvantage that it only considers market share and growth. Thus, it will only partially explain the reasons behind your things’ success or failure.  Do you ever wonder why your business is not growing? No matter how products you add and the tools you use? It can be stressful and draining. But at times like this, you should try to think deeply instead of being angry and feeling hopeless about the situation.  Ask yourself, are all your product sales high? What products sell the most? What and why are they not? You can also employ a BCG matrix to analyze your business product portfolio effectively. But how do you do it?  That’s what we’re going to tackle in this article. I prepared examples and how to guide regarding the BCG matrix to help you use it for your business. Keep reading to learn more! ## BCG Matrix Overview The BCG matrix model evaluates a company’s product line to assist in [long-term strategic planning](https://alejandrorioja.com/marketing-myopia-one-of-the-reasons-businesses-fail/). The matrix assists in identifying new growth opportunities and formulating plans to ensure future investment success.  Although most businesses sell a variety of goods, not all of them are equally profitable. The BCG matrix can be useful since it offers a framework for evaluating each product’s performance, helping the business decide which items to invest more money in and which to drop. ## Benefits of Using BCG Matrix The BCG Matrix offers multiple benefits to businesses, especially in strategic planning and portfolio management. With the help of the BCG matrix, businesses are able to effectively allocate their resources, allowing them to concentrate on highly growing products while selling off or managing low-growth products.  It also helps identify potential areas for [investment and growth](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-invest-your-profits-for-future-growth/), which enables businesses to make intelligent decisions about product development, marketing plans, and resource allocation. ## Drawbacks of BCG Matrix Despite its usefulness, the BCG matrix is a simple framework that might overlook some of a firm’s deeper components. Employing the BCG matrix has the disadvantage that it only considers market share and growth. Thus, it will only partially explain the reasons behind your things’ success or failure.  The BCG matrix is an excellent place to start, but it is insufficient to direct a company’s future. It won’t give you enough details to deal with difficult business issues in many circumstances. ## How To Create A BCG Matrix? Now that you’re familiar with the BGC’s benefits and drawbacks, let’s talk about how to build up a BCG matrix. The first thing you will need is data on the market share and growth rate of the products or services you offer. Second, you must assess your competitors fairly and consider the future three years when assessing market growth. One effective framework for this kind of evaluation is Porter’s Five Forces. But you may also use absolute market share if your industry is highly fragmented.  The next step is to create a BCG matrix by hand or using a [web-based template](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) program. Some are offered for free, while others require a subscription or come with another charting tool. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/3f5vyC7NCulzaPG7duH5DIw-9ZR3LDxoMHlNJ2YLM_KWXw6AuL--PfztausFkLW5H8nT5IY9Pm6jkVL5su-pZrvmvxC6nWARkQCR1jLRnV0ykqhYitFnY4SIv_hA_H0Ba4AlKsY6dKRjqPFJLe8mGB0) BCG Matrix Market share is displayed along the horizontal axis (low left to high right), and growth rate is displayed along the vertical axis (low bottom to high top) of this four-quadrant BCG matrix template. Upper left is “Stars,” upper right is “Questions,” lower left is “Cash Cows,” and lower right is “Dogs.” According to their market share and projected growth, categorize your products accordingly. The positioning of the quadrant boundaries is determined by how your business stands up against the competition. Each quadrant of the BCG matrix is discussed in detail below. ### Stars Quadrant Stars are the most profitable divisions or products in terms of market share and earnings. The term is often used to describe monopolies and first-to-market products.  They have a high growth rate, yet stars have high monetary consumption. This usually has the same monetary effect on income and expenditure.  Stars can mature into Cash Cows if they maintain their success until the market soothes down from its rapid growth. Investing in Stars is an essential part of a BCG growth plan. ### Cash Cows Quadrant A cash cow’s capacity to offer a reliable and continuous income source is one of its main advantages. They require less investment to preserve their position and have high market growth rates, allowing the business to focus its resources on other products or services.  Additionally, cash cows offer a financial safety net that allows businesses to endure market downturns. To guarantee they keep their competitive advantages, you must continue to monitor and manage cash cows. ### Dogs Quadrant The quadrant labeled “dogs” shows goods and services with a small market share and market growth. Dogs frequently appear in markets that are mature or in decline, where they have to deal with fierce competition which makes it difficult to make [big profits](https://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2023/06/10/5-most-surprising-revelations-from-the-secs-binance-lawsuit/?sh=1ba330e33a34).  They are frequently difficult for businesses to manage since they demand continual expenditures with uncertain results. Dogs might still have some value for a business despite their modest financial contribution. They could cater to specific markets or enjoy an engaged base of customers who value their unique characteristics. ### Question Marks Quadrant These areas of business have substantial growth potential but little market share. They spend a lot of money but produce nothing in return.  The corporation loses money because of question marks. However, because these business units are rapidly expanding, they can become Stars in a high-growth industry.  Businesses are urged to buy Question Marks if their products show potential for expansion and to sell from them otherwise. ## How to Use the BCG Matrix? Once you understand where each item fits within the BCG matrix, you can now look into it and prepare for the success of your business’s growth.  So how can you use the BCG matrix? Below are the four approaches you can use to apply the BCG matrix effectively in your business strategy: 1\. Increase the amount you invest in Stars and Question Marks if your objective is to focus on development. By investing more in something, you can turn a Question Mark into a Star and then, subsequently, a Cash Cow. 2\. Keep an item within the same sector and only do something with it if you can invest more money. A Cash Cow has the benefit of being an established product that requires less work to maintain. 3\. Take out the greatest cash flow from a product while lowering your investment and [raising profitability](https://gizmodo.com/richard-branson-virgin-galactic-commercial-spaceflight-1850547185). Use this tactic most effectively with Cash Cows. 4\. Transfer the money used to purchase a product to another project. Dogs respond well to this tactic. 5\. It is impossible to forecast the long-term growth of any item because customer needs are continually changing. You should often update and improve your BCG matrix as economic conditions change.  The objective is to build a varied portfolio, not to thrive in one sector. To maintain an adequate cash flow and provide products to safeguard your business’s future, you must have products in each of the four quadrants of your BCG matrix. ## What is the Role of Cash Flow in the BCG Matrix? Cash flow is important in the BCG Matrix because it provides useful insights about the monetary health of products or business units. While the matrix takes into account market growth rate and market share, cash flow gives a deeper understanding of the company’s profitability and long-term viability.  Companies can examine the real inflows and outflows of cash by assessing cash flow. Aside from that, it helps to identify cash cows, which create considerable cash inflows, hence supporting the business’s stability and growth. ## A Real-Life Example of BCG Matrix Reviewing a real-world BCG matrix example can be helpful to ensure proper analysis comprehension. The Nestle company is often used to illustrate the BCG matrix because it owns various product brands and its trademark.![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/9dBaHj_9ENDDdMFPu9ukxWPO1PPS6xcolFqg2FU6vkMV2FKc7BCvYwTn-POlBDUKSAN1Me_00WsQzFcN-SPAJ5as7R5iALPddp0HrRuskDIhZVTYr52uemFBvpyqmSgWt5QsXQ_7jEvElzXsQUVoEmM) Nescafé: These items might eventually result in a greater return on investment. To gain a stronger presence in this market, the Nescafé brand might need to make significant expenditures, but once they do, these products might quickly turn into moneymakers. KitKat: This product has a huge consumer following, notably in Asia. They require a small financial investment. They can be found in every nook and cranny. And the majority of us adore them. Nestea, others: Products in this category don’t have many remarkable benefits. As a result, the company considers future investments a waste of money. They may one day result in items in the “Dilemma” or “Star” categories. Nesquik: Dilemma items include certain Nestlé dairy products. This area needs more spending because it is part of the strategy development process. Furthermore, investing money in it carries a high level of risk. There are instances that a product can sometimes fit into multiple quadrants. So, when creating your BCG matrix, don’t panic when most of your products are positioned in one or two quadrants.  ## Some Alternative Matrix Models ### 1\. McKinsey/General Electric Matrix The Business Strength-Industry Attractiveness Matrix, developed by McKinsey and GE, evaluates company units or products according to their competitiveness and industry appeal. It considers several elements, including market size, competitive intensity, technical advancements, and profitability. ### 2\. Product Life Cycle Matrix The Product Life Cycle Matrix is a structure for assessing products or business units according to the stage of their lifespan cycle. The four stages are typically introduction, growth, maturity, and decline. This matrix makes comprehending the dynamics and tactics needed at various product [life cycle stages](https://gizmodo.com/google-pixel-tablet-review-smart-home-hub-android-1850540712) easier. ### 3\. Directional Policy Matrix Using two criteria—market appeal and competitive position—the Directional Policy Matrix (DPM), a planning and strategy tool, assesses goods or business units. By considering the varying attractiveness of markets and the company’s standing within those markets, it offers recommendations on tactical choices such as investments, divestment, or allocation of resources. ### 4\. ADL Matrix The Arthur D. Little (ADL) Matrix ranks business units or goods according to competitiveness and market appeal. It helps recognize possible strategic alternatives for each company unit, including harvest, invest, divest, or build. ### 5\. Shell Matrix The Shell Matrix, the Scenario Matrix, is a scenario planning tool. It evaluates several future scenarios according to two main variables or parameters. It assists organizations in analyzing the probable impact of various events and developing plans accordingly. ## Apply BGC Matrix to Your Business! Ultimately, the BCG matrix can be utilized for assessing a product portfolio. However, it should be combined with other tools for strategic management and a thorough grasp of the particular company’s context.  With the help of BCG matrix, businesses may make decisions with greater knowledge and effectively go through the complex terrain of their marketplaces since, through the matrix, you can understand your business edge and constraints.  Applying a BCG matrix is simple. You just have to think logically and be careful in positioning a product or service. When you master this, you can effectively assess your business product portfolio. Did you like this article? If you do and you want to learn more about the BCG matrix and another matrix that you can use to strategize your business, you can do so by reading my blogs below: - [Top 5 Business Process Management Software (BPMS)](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-business-process-management-software-bpms/) - [What Is Product Development Process And How To Do It](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-product-development-process/) - [How To Be Super Productive: Killer Productivity Tips 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tips/) Don’t hesitate to leave a comment if you wish to see more business-related content. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The fundamentals in this post still hold — Ansoff, BCG, integrated marketing, land-and-expand, NYOP, TOMA frameworks are durable. What changed since the original publication is **how the implementation surface looks in 2026**: - The **distribution channels** assumed in 2020-era marketing posts (organic Facebook reach, free Twitter virality, paid Instagram CPMs under $10) are gone or transformed. Re-cost any tactical recommendation against today's CPMs. - **AI Overviews** ate the top of the SEO funnel — TOFU content strategy from the 2022 era now needs a GEO layer (see the [SEO updated note](#updated-for-may-2026)). - **Land-and-expand** as a motion is healthier than ever in B2B SaaS; PLG → enterprise progression is the default path for almost any 2026 startup. - **Integrated marketing communication** in 2026 means the *brand voice* shows up the same across paid, organic, AI-cited, podcast guesting, and the newsletter — because models like GPT-5 and Claude 4.7 are increasingly summarizing the *brand*, not just individual pages. If you're using this framework for a 2026 plan, the strategic skeleton is right; only the channel-mix data points need a fresh source. --- ## Top AI Image Enhancer Tools in 2026 (What I Actually Use) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-ai-image-enhancer-tools/ Published: 2023-07-06 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: AI, Marketing TL;DR: The standalone AI-upscaler category collapsed in 2024–2025. Most enhancement now happens inside ChatGPT, Gemini, or Photoshop's built-in Generative Fill. The independent tools still worth using in 2026 are Topaz Photo AI (best quality, $199 one-time), Magnific (creative upscale, $39/mo), and Krea AI (real-time enhance + generate, $35/mo). ## Table of contents The AI image-enhancer category looked completely different in 2023 when this post first went up. By 2026, the big-three model providers (OpenAI, Anthropic, Google) ship image upscaling and generative fill natively inside their products — and the standalone tools have either been absorbed, repositioned, or quietly died. This is the actual 2026 working stack, ranked by where I'd send a real operator.
AI image enhancement
Umbrella term for upscaling (more pixels), denoising, restoring detail, color correction, and generative fill (replacing/extending parts of an image with model-generated content). Different from generation, where the entire image is created from scratch.
## What changed in 2024–2025
2023 landscape

A dozen+ standalone upscaler tools (Let's Enhance, Bigjpg, Gigapixel, Waifu2x, AI Image Enlarger, Cutout.Pro). Each priced $10–30/mo subscription. Quality varied wildly.

2026 reality

Native upscaling inside ChatGPT (with image generation), Gemini, Photoshop (Generative Fill + Enhance), and Krea. Standalone tools mostly absorbed (Cutout.Pro), repositioned (Topaz), or dead (most of the rest). Three independents still genuinely best-in-class.

## The 2026 working stack
  1. 01
    Topaz Photo AI ($199 one-time). The quality leader for photo restoration, denoising, and upscaling real photos. Desktop app, no monthly fee, processes locally. Best for photographers, restoration work, and any case where you need predictable high quality without subscription bleed.
  2. 02
    Magnific ($39/mo). The creative upscaler — adds detail at scale ("creativity" slider) rather than just sharpening existing pixels. Best for marketing visuals, AI-generated images that need real-feeling texture, and product photography you want to look like a $5,000 studio shoot.
  3. 03
    Krea AI ($35/mo). Real-time generation + enhancement. The killer feature is the live canvas — sketch and watch it become a polished image in real time. Best for ideation, agency mood-board work, and rapid creative iteration.
  4. 04
    ChatGPT (Plus or API). Built-in image generation now includes high-quality enhancement and inpainting. The 2026 model is genuinely competitive with dedicated tools for everyday tasks. Best if you're already in ChatGPT for other reasons.
  5. 05
    Google Gemini + Pixel Studio. Inside Google Workspace and Pixel devices. Best for Workspace users and anyone deep in the Google ecosystem.
## Which tool for which job
Restore old photos
  • Topaz Photo AI (one-time)
  • Adobe Photoshop Generative Restore
  • Best for: real photo restoration
·
Make AI images look real
  • Magnific (creative upscale)
  • Krea (live refinement)
  • Best for: marketing visuals
Quick everyday upscale
  • ChatGPT (image edit)
  • Gemini (Workspace)
  • Best for: one-off tasks
·
Production volume
  • Topaz Photo AI batch
  • Krea API
  • Best for: 100+ images / day
## What died in 2024–2025 Worth knowing if you're reading older lists: - **Let's Enhance** — pivoted away from consumer enhancement, now B2B-only - **Bigjpg** — still online but quality lags 2026 baseline by a generation - **Cutout.Pro** — absorbed into Aiseesoft's broader toolkit - **AI Image Enlarger** — defunct - **Waifu2x** — open-source so technically still works, but image-generation models surpassed it - **Remini** — pivoted hard toward consumer mobile/social use cases (face enhancement, dating-app photo touch-ups) If a tool you used in 2023 isn't on the working-stack list above, it's probably one of these. ## How to think about cost in 2026
$199
Topaz Photo AI · one-time
$39/mo
Magnific · monthly
$20/mo
ChatGPT Plus · usable image gen
Free
Gemini (basic) · Workspace bundle
If you process more than ~20 images/month, the one-time Topaz license pays for itself in a quarter vs subscription tools. ## Bottom line The standalone AI image-enhancer category got absorbed by the big-three model providers in 2024–2025. Three independents still genuinely lead their niches: **Topaz** for real photography, **Magnific** for creative upscale, **Krea** for real-time iteration. If you're shopping for image-enhancement tools in 2026, start with what you're already paying for (ChatGPT or Gemini) and add Topaz if your volume justifies it. > Related: [How does Google make money?](/how-does-google-make-money/) · [Best AI tools for marketers](/mind-blowing-ai-tools/) · [Build AI agents in your business →](/services/#agent) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Unleashing Innovation: Exploring The Role Of An Entrepreneur In Residence Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/exploring-the-role-of-an-entrepreneur-in-residence/ Published: 2023-06-27 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Building a company from scratch and finding the right people to grow your business takes time. You could graduate with a degree and have read every business book available but still be shocked once you enter the real world.  An entrepreneur in residence (EIR) will help you with everything you need to launch and ensure your business’s success. You’ll know how an EIR works, the benefits of having one, and how to find the perfect EIR for your company below! I’ve been asked multiple times before about the role of an entrepreneur in residence. This role is new to some, but this position started with venture capital businesses.  Since businesses learned about entrepreneurs in residence and how they are an asset to a startup company, many industries have looked into hiring one for themselves. You can never go wrong if you hire an EIR, and you can grow with your company with an EIR helping you along the way. Each entrepreneur in residence role is different because you’ll have unique business plans. If you’re curious about what an entrepreneur in residence does for a company, you’ll find all the answers here.  ## The expertise of An Entrepreneur In Residence An entrepreneur in residence is an expert in business startups, and new companies hire them.  The venture capital industry is the first industry to engage entrepreneurs in residence, but many other industries are following suit, like: - Government agencies - Law firms - Charities - Universities - Corporations  An EIR can be your asset if you hire the right one with the skills to match your business. Having one for your new business can limit mistakes and guarantee a successful launch. In addition, EIRs have different skills, depending on their experience, so they have more experience building a company.  New businesses should have given the role of an entrepreneur in residence recognition in the past. But since [startups have gained popularity](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) and more people are building their businesses, you must have an expert.  If you want a successful business with minimal to no mistakes, have the best pitch for investors, and have someone find new opportunities to grow your business, get an EIR. Their roles vary depending on their industry, but you can guarantee that hiring one will be better for your company.  ## What Are The Roles of An Entrepreneur In Residence? Before hiring an entrepreneur in residence, know what roles they fit in and how they can help you with your business. Here are the roles that an EIR has, which vary depending on what you’re looking for.  ### 1\. They Provide Operational Support Entrepreneurs in residence can help with operational support even if they have the expertise to start a company. Venture capital businesses usually hire EIRs to help them run multiple investments, and you can hire an EIR too!  Once your startup launches, an entrepreneur-in-residence may move on to a different project or be hired as a consultant or CEO. In addition, your EIR can lead a specific team in your startups, such as business growth or product development.  If you need help finding investors, your entrepreneur-in-residence can help you search for the right ones. Your EIR can also help determine why you’re losing investors and find the most convenient approach to this issue.  ### 2\. They Start A Company Entrepreneurs in residence are experts in starting a company. This job is what EIRs are hired for in venture capital businesses, and you can guarantee they’ll help you start a company and create productivity too.  Entrepreneurs in residence will always remain independent, but you should give them a chance to turn visions into reality by helping your company. If your hired EIR wants to move on to another company after half a year to a year, then it will be up to them. ### 3\. They Cultivate Innovation EIRs have different skills, depending on what they studied for. They will study your business plan and develop ways you can innovate your products and services to accommodate the client’s needs.  Approaching innovation will give you recognition for your business venture. I know there’s much to do when building a business from scratch. Hiring experts will significantly help you succeed but ensure that when you hire an entrepreneur in residence, their expertise aligns with your business.  ### 4\. They Can Be Your Mentor As I’ve explained, an entrepreneur in residence is an expert in startups and company ventures. If you want to learn how to become successful in your business, you can ask your EIR for mentorship.  Not only will your entrepreneur in residence help you run a business, but your EIR may also train your employees. Having an entrepreneur in residence allows everyone to run the company, what works best, and how to find the right investors.  ### 5\. You Can Support Their Skill Refinement Activities Instead of your entrepreneur in residence helping and mentoring you for your business goals, you can send them to refresh their skills through seminars and training. Supporting your EIR while honing their skills is a must because they will help your business grow. To grow your business, you need to learn the latest trends in the industry, and you can do so by letting your EIR know more. This way, your entrepreneur gains knowledge that will benefit you both.  ### 6\. Creating The Best Action Plan You must start a business with an action plan because it will fail. So, an entrepreneur in residence will help create the right plan to guarantee your startup’s success.  The EIR will act as a mentor who will guide you in decision-making and explain why a decision is right or wrong. With this guidance, you’ll handle your business like a pro in no time! ### 7\. Approving Business Proposals Your entrepreneur-in-residence is the best person to study and approve the business proposal you send to potential investors. Trust your EIR’s experience in spotting the problems in your business plan.  If improvements are needed for your business proposal to be perfect, your entrepreneur-in-residence can fix them immediately. This way, you can confidently send the proposals and have investors lining up to be part of your business.  ### 8\. Preventing Common Mistakes I experienced many mistakes when I first started, so I know the feeling of trying to revise a business proposal without professional help. If you have an entrepreneur in residence, you’ll have help.  Entrepreneurs in residence can spot common mistakes of a startup and can prevent further errors. Though it’s impossible never to have mistakes when running a business, you could minimize the mistakes with the entrepreneur in residence’s help. ## The Importance of An Entrepreneur In Residence An entrepreneur in residence’s role is having due diligence and creating startup companies. If you’re new to the industry and don’t know where to start, then you need an entrepreneur in residence.  Venture capital businesses started hiring EIRs, but more and more industries realized their importance because of their expertise in finding the right investors, creating top-notch business proposals, and mentorship.  Your company will be successful with an entrepreneur in residence, and you can also learn how to invest your money correctly. They’ll help you look for suitable investments, teach you how to spot problems in a company, and let you be successful in your venture. ## The Benefits of Having An Entrepreneur In Residence Let’s be honest; starting a business is not always a walk in the park. But you can have the best experience when you have a reliable team to help your [productivity](https://www.inc.com/young-entrepreneur-council/why-attitude-will-are-all-you-need-to-launch-a-company.html).  Here are the benefits of having an entrepreneur in residence with you: ### 1\. They Have Expertise In Proprietary Sourcing Entrepreneurs in residence have their network, and this will be a great opportunity for you when you expand your business. Proprietary sourcing is vital to growing a business; you can guarantee that your EIR will lead the way.  ### 2\. They Can Help Perfect Your Pitch Review Pitching the business to potential investors is one of the skills of an entrepreneur in residence. If you want a catchy and convincing pitch, then hire an entrepreneur in residence today.  ### 3\. You Can Gather The Entrepreneur’s Perspective On A Project Since entrepreneurs in residence are the experts in starting a company, you could tap into your EIR’s perspective when you start a project. This way, you can pinpoint weak areas in your project and improve them for the best results. ### 4\. You’ll Have Operational Support Operational support is among the best things, especially in a startup company. Hiring an entrepreneur in residence will give you the support you need to launch your business and [generate sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/).  If you’re struggling with a specific problem in your business, you can get help from an entrepreneur in residence. Your EIR will find out why you keep losing your clients and find the best solution to resolve the problem. ### 5\. You’ll Have Someone With Industry Knowledge Being new to the industry is frustrating and challenging, but you can hire an EIR to have someone who knows the industry. This way, an expert in your chosen industry will guide you and have [proper guidance](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/02/21/15-ways-to-build-adaptability-as-an-entrepreneur/) in dealing with your new business.  ## How Much An Entrepreneur In Residence’s Salary Is An entrepreneur in residence’s salary depends upon the role a company puts the entrepreneur in. For example, some venture capitalists hire EIRs but don’t give them a salary. These companies provide office space and a stipend for entrepreneurs in residence. In return, the entrepreneur will gain investors and experience to help them with their careers.  In other settings, an entrepreneur in residence can earn up to $300k a year. Since they have worked for a company for around 6 to 12 months, this salary is more than enough.  The good thing about being an entrepreneur in residence is they can choose where they work. After six months to a year, moving on will be easy since they have gathered enough skills to help another company in need.  ## Find The Perfect Entrepreneur In Residence For Your Startup! If you plan to hire an entrepreneur in business, you can hire one as you hire for other roles. Salary and other benefits depend on how long the EIR will stay and what you agree with.  Don’t wait another day to hire an entrepreneur in residence, especially when your business is on the line. If you want a [successful business](https://www.businessinsider.com/small-businesses-can-survive-recession-act-now-ceo-lara-hodgson-2022-11?_ga=2.64865007.1148468515.1677248356-514123385.1677248356&_gl=1*s7ovoa*_ga*NTE0MTIzMzg1LjE2NzcyNDgzNTY.*_ga_E21CV80ZCZ*MTY3NzI0ODM1NS4xLjEuMTY3NzI0ODM3Mi4wLjAuMA..) venture, having an EIR will be your greatest decision! So, hire an entrepreneur in residence now. Did you like this post? Find out more about how startups generate money from other articles I posted below! - [How Does Facebook Make Money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [How Does Google Make Money? 2023 Revenue And Facts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) - [How Does Instagram Make Money? 2023 Revenue, History](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) Please comment on this post and tell me what you want me to write about next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## A Guide To The Top Pop-up Ad Strategies That Work Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-the-top-pop-up-ad-strategies-that-work/ Published: 2023-06-22 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: On average, the conversion rate noted for most pop-ups is gauged to be more than 3%, with some achieving even higher, up to 9%. Consider a website with 100,000 visitors per month to put things in clear perspective. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line As a business owner, there are various pop-up tactics you ought to employ in your business. These pop-up tactics could include using exit-intent pop-ups, providing first-time visitors with discounted advertisements, presenting subscribers with a surprise gift, etc.  Remember that to maximize the efficiency of your marketing strategy, there are a few guidelines you need to follow. Such guidelines may include adjusting the pop-up design to reflect your company’s aesthetic, providing a value proposition that is both obvious and actionable, and being mindful of your timing.  These guidelines will help you make highly effective pop-up advertising to increase sales. You can always employ chatbots instead of pop-ups if you worry they could be too intrusive. In that it may send personalized messages to visitors to your website and show them pertinent images, a chatbot is similar to a small pop-up advertisement.  Typically, it can be found at your website’s bottom-left or right corner. Consider trying it out because it is a classy and simple technique to grab the interest of potential customers. Pop-up advertisements used to be nothing more than spam and unwanted material when I first started my career in marketing. Fortunately, over the years, after realizing consumers will not respond to badly designed pop-up ads, marketers and business owners have gradually updated their strategies. As a result, I’ve seen pop-ups convert at three percent or more traffic when done properly! That results from how highly targeted; strategically planned; contextually relevant; and well-timed today’s pop-ups are.  Your advertisements should aim to satisfy those four requirements. Read on for more information if you need help. ## What Are Pop-up Ads? This refers to a window that appears over the page you’re viewing. Pop-up advertisement seeks to elicit a response from the visitor.  The intended action could be anything you want visitors to your website to do. Actions include: - Buying something - Signing up for a newsletter - Enrolling in a course - Watching a webinar - Checking out other useful information related to your business - Start a live chat to get assistance  Sometimes pop-up ads appear when you first arrive on a website, and other times they appear just before you depart. Depending on how a website is set up, you can decide what specific site events need to be triggered for a pop-up to appear. If you need help locating what you’re looking for on a website, you may have even seen pop-ups urging you to try a live chat. The user experience these pop-ups provide determines whether or not they are useful.  Ensure the value they offer correlates with the user’s needs or where they are on your site if you want to improve pop-ups’ functionality. ## Reasons Why You Should Use Pop-up Ads Learning how to use pop-up advertising correctly is a sure way to enhance your business conversion rates as well as sales. On average, the conversion rate noted for most pop-ups is gauged to be more than 3%, with some achieving even higher, up to 9%.  Consider a website with 100,000 visitors per month to put things in clear perspective. With an average conversion rate of 3%, there would be more than 3,000 conversions each month. That’s a pretty good figure if you ask me. With [higher conversion rates](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-improve-conversion-rate-of-a-young-business/) of 4% and 10%, respectively, live chat and chatbots are the next most successful conversion techniques you can utilize on your site directly after pop-up advertisements. Let’s continue our discussion by examining the benefits that pop-up advertising might have for your website’s marketing initiatives: - Pop-ups offer instant value to customers  - Your Pop-up and times your pitch just right  - Pop-ups can’t be ignored or missed - Your pop-up ads create urgency - They show up when users are engaged the most ## Pop-up Ad Strategies That Work Let’s discuss the practical tactics you may use in your company to boost conversions. ### 1\. Limited Pop-up Offer The concept of FOMO is well-known and is tapped into when it comes to pop-up ads. Seasonal deals may convert at 11.88 percent because of the urgency attached to them. That’s because users realize they won’t be able to return the next week and receive the same offer, so they must take immediate action. The conversion percentage may increase if you provide promotional codes, coupons, or anything else to grab their interest. Before adding one-time or limited-time offers to your website, consider your audience. Think about the offers that would prompt immediate action from them.  If you’re selling real goods, it might be as straightforward as offering free shipping. You may provide a free 30-minute call in exchange for a three-month commitment to a course or something similar if you sell digital products.  Examining your website’s top-selling goods or services is the most effective technique to determine what your audience is most interested in. Finding a way to incorporate those elements into a time-limited offer will help you build a successful pop-up. ### 2\. Gamification Of Your Pop-up  Every day, gamification in marketing grows in popularity. It allows you to thrill and engage your audience at the same time. This could be accomplished with a quiz, a digital scratch-off, or a “spin the wheel” advertisement. Wheel pop-up advertising engaged between 5 and 20 percent of visitors in one case study we looked at. Advertisements like these can lead to a variety of outcomes. When local marketing is relevant, you can request customers’ email addresses and names in exchange for a chance, urge them to download anything, or even advise them to visit your brick-and-mortar location. In contrast to the other pop-up advertisements, however, this one has the potential to produce the lowest quality subscribers because many individuals may enter fake emails to participate in the game or quiz.  Over time, this problem may affect the deliverability of your emails and negatively affect your organization as a whole. If you use this tactic, purge your email list more frequently. Consider the demographics of your audience when gamifying your pop-ups. Are you marketing to an older generation, such as baby boomers? You might get better results from an alternative strategy if they aren’t interested in playing games on your website. After identifying your desired clientele, you must decide what you will provide on the wheel. It would help if you made the alternatives alluring enough for the user to want to give you their information. ### 3\. Using Exit-Intent Pop-Ups Correct use of exit-intent pop-ups can immediately boost your conversion rate. One [case study](https://medium.com/growth-optimization/exit-intent-popup-case-studies-success-and-failure-ee15a5e79097) discovered that displaying an exit-intent pop-up to more users converted about 5% of them. You should try them out if possible. Right before the user leaves the page, an exit-intent advertisement appears. On a desktop computer, this can occur when the cursor leaves the page; on a smartphone, it can occur when the user takes their finger off the screen. Consider these actions as your final attempt to persuade someone to stay when they might never return. Remember that segmenting your audience is very important so that the pop-up’s context is accurate. You can generally plug and play an exit-intent ad with most website builders, including WordPress, Shopify, Squarespace, and Ghost. Download the plug-in, then complete the fields with the necessary information. ### 4\. Scroll-based Pop-ups Typically, scroll-based pop-ups appear once a visitor has scrolled down a predetermined distance (for instance, 25% of the page).  These pop-ups produce marginally better results because they only appear after evidence of engagement, while certain e-commerce websites may also employ them. They work particularly well on articles and blog posts. ### 5\. Pop-ups Based On Interactions For marketing teams interested in providing individualized experiences, these pop-ups are useful. Interaction-based pop-ups appear after a visitor clicks or hovers over a certain feature.  They let your team generate a customized experience based on your visitors’ behavior, as opposed to delayed or entrance pop-ups. ### 6\. Offer Surprise Gifts To Everyone Who Subscribes  Everyone likes surprises, and online shoppers are no different. A survey reveals that up to 94% of clients who received a surprise present felt better about their interaction with a business.  Therefore, providing a sense of surprise to pop-up advertisements may lead to a conversion. In your ad language, include words like “mystery” or “surprise” to entice visitors on your site to take appropriate action. ### 7\. Exclusive Content Offers A timely, relevant offer is key in securing a reader or visitor’s attention and will go a long way in converting the traffic on your page into customers. Imagine that there’s a user reading an article or blog shared on your website. More than anything, seeing a pop-up immediately urging them to purchase your goods or services will irritate them. However, there’s a good possibility you’ll receive more subscriptions if you advertise towards the end of the blog and ask them to subscribe to your page or website to receive exclusive, relevant material. In the prompt, you can promise them [exclusive content](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2021/01/29/retail-exclusivity-in-the-digital-age/?sh=e07d0d09ef86) delivered directly to their email. ## Pop-up Advertisement Tips for Effective Marketing  A compelling pop-up promoting effort further develops a business’ sales funnel. For better pop-up marketing, here are some suggestions: ### 1\. Provide Value When it offers genuine value, pop-up marketing attracts new leads. Offering one-time advancements or even free content and items can improve the lead’s perspective on the brand and offers more worth than a normal ad. ### 2\. Make Your Sales Funnel More Diverse It is crucial to [connect with potential clients](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-marketing-instagram-essentials-and-content-creation/) through many different channels. Your brand’s appeal can be expanded, and leads are drawn to it by employing additional strategies. Diversify your efforts and expand your reach by utilizing a variety of pop-up concepts and platforms. ### 3\. Make use of influencers Influencers have turned into a strong promoting assets. Recruit [social media influencers](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2022/10/26/why-influencer-marketing-is-important-for-brands-in-2022/?sh=e079cd0431f2) to advocate for your brand and direct people to your promotions or pop events. Additionally, this may assist in expanding the overall audience for your brand. ### 4\. Join forces with well-known brands Pop-up shops for similar businesses outside of their stores or in retail spaces like malls are permitted by some brands. This can assist with amplifying your exposure and creating revenue from store traffic. Clients are bound to entrust pop-up shops partnered with a notable brand. ### 5\. Reducing shopping cart abandonment Shopping cart abandonment can still occur even if a new lead clicks on your promotional banner. After new consumers log off, sending a follow-up email or providing a pop-up reminder when a customer is about to abandon their cart is critical. This straightforward nudge is sufficient to decrease abandoned carts and boost sales. However, it will only sometimes be effective. After all, with this approach, you have nothing to lose. ## Best Practices In Creating Pop-up Ads You should adhere to a few important rules when creating your pop-up advertisements. These are listed in order of importance. ### 1\. Context Would you prompt a new website visitor to [subscribe to your newsletter](https://alejandrorioja.com/6-best-email-marketing-services-for-small-business/) immediately after they arrive? No. You need to give the appropriate pop-ups to the appropriate person because they don’t even know what you’re giving. ### 2\. Timing  The least effective ads appear between 0 and 4 seconds after visitors enter a website. Don’t you detest when a salesperson approaches you when you enter a store to inquire whether you require assistance? Before asking whether they need something, give the visitors an opportunity to look through your inventory. ### 3\. Value Whatever you already have going on has to be given more value. If you sell shoes and someone visits your website to look at them, you might offer them a discount to entice them back. Find out why customers are departing before purchasing to add value. Your checkout procedure may be lengthy, or your pricing may not be transparent. ## Leverage Pop-Ads!  These pop-up ad samples and suggestions will increase user conversions and improve their overall experience on your website. Pop-ups can increase the traffic you receive while having a little impact when used properly. Remember that the context, time, and value your advertisement offers should be considered above all else. The better the findings, the more they will reverberate and connect with your audience.  Whether you work in e-commerce marketing, create blogs, or offer local services; you can gain from using on-site pop-ups properly. Interested in more posts like this? Here are other articles to help you understand how to market your business better: - [Facebook Advertising: A Complete Guide For Beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-advertising/) - [Master Marketing With Data Analytics: How to Get Sustainable Results](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/) - [How Prompt Engineering Can Revolutionize Your Product Design](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-prompt-engineering-can-revolutionize-your-product-design/) Comment below what other marketing strategy content you’d like to read about next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Everything You Need To Know About Google Maps Marketing Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/google-maps-marketing/ Published: 2023-06-02 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Google is responsible for nearly 88% of all mobile searches and handles approximately 3.5 billion daily searches. About 76% of customers who search for local products visit a store within one day, indicating that sales directly correlate with local Google searches. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Without a doubt, Google Maps is one of the world’s most useful tools. However, it is much more than just a way to get around without using paper maps or asking people for directions. It is an unbelievably strong marketing instrument. Google Maps marketing allows businesses to get ahead of prospective consumers and can prompt higher rankings on web index results pages. However, the quality of a lot of the data depends on what you provide to Google directly or on your website. It is essential to your business’s long-term viability to ensure that it appears in Google Maps. Businesses that lack an online presence often deter potential customers. Luckily, Google Maps marketing is one of the simplest and quickest ways to get on the web. Entrepreneurs presently have a potential chance to continuously showcase their work and products to anybody with a cell phone. Find out what Google Maps marketing is, why it’s important for local SEO, and how businesses can use it correctly in this guide. ## Google Maps Marketing  Google Guides Advertising makes your specific business more straightforward for clients to find. It is a method for improving your [company’s visibility](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google/) on Google Maps to move up in search results, boosting conversion, and increasing revenue. Simply put, Google Maps Marketing adds relevant information to your particular Google My Business (GMB) profile to get a higher ranking. A free tool, the Google My Business profile can be easily optimized and managed by a business. The first step is to add vital details like the full business name, location, and hours and to keep these details updated at all times. Regarding your marketing efforts, you must first claim and verify your GMB profile before optimizing everything you add to it. You can then use your profile to respond to customer feedback and comments, launch Google Maps ads, and keep track of them. ## Importance Of Google Maps Marketing  Google is responsible for nearly 88% of all mobile searches and handles approximately 3.5 billion daily searches. About 76% of customers who search for local products visit a store within one day, indicating that sales directly correlate with local Google searches. This marketing can influence how Google views your company and how or if it appears in the organic search, known as the local 3-pack. Your chances of being discovered are greatly reduced unless your business is in a 3-pack. Google Guides can channel a large number of possible clients toward your business. As a result, Google Maps Marketing is frequently regarded as the most significant component of [local SEO](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2021/05/06/why-google-my-business-is-more-important-than-ever-in-2021/amp/) efforts. ## Goal Of Google Maps Marketing  In addition to achieving a higher rank on Google Maps, [the ultimate goal of Google Maps marketing is to place as high as possible in the local business listings](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-complete-guide-to-google-search-console/) on relevant Google search engine results pages.  ## How Does Local 3-pack Work? The top three businesses in the Google Maps Local 3-Pack are those that Google considers being most relevant based on the following criteria: - the current location of a user; - or the location they are looking for. Google will display [Google Map results](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-maps-vs-waze-which-navigation-app-is-better/) whenever a search query infers the need for local results. An optimized Google My Business profile listing is needed for you to appear in the Local 3-Pack. Additionally, your business needs to rank inside that 3-pack to increase your possibilities of being found and acquiring clients. ## Setting Up Your Google My Business Listing  You won’t be charged anything to create a Google My Business (GMB) listing. This is because you are technically letting Google know that your company exists. The ultimate objective is to elevate your company above your competitors. To create your Google My Business listing: - [Log in to your browser](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2021/05/06/why-google-my-business-is-more-important-than-ever-in-2021/amp/) and go to https://www.google.com/business/ - Find or make a listing for your business - Fill out and complete all the required information - Add contact and make sure the category is correct - Verify your account. Google allows for this to be done via phone, email, or conventional mail - Include good photos - Verify every piece of information ## Tips For Optimizing Your Google Maps Effort Albeit numerous organizations guarantee their Google My Business listing, many essentially register their business and give just the most superficial (or, more regrettably, inadequate) data. Unsurprisingly, this has a negative impact on visibility and the overall ranking of Google Maps.  What can you do then? Here is an agenda to improve and upgrade your Google Guides posting for the greatest permeability. ### 1\. Service Areas You must specify your service areas in your GMB profile for businesses that serve a larger area beyond their front door. For instance, you must include this information in your profile if you are a caterer serving individuals at home and businesses in a large region. First, include the address of your primary location, followed by the specific service areas in which you also conduct business. These could be town names, city names, or a specific distance from your actual address location in miles. Your optimization relies heavily on this identification of service areas. ### 2\. Select Relevant Categories  The class choices on the Google My Business profile are a fundamental part and one you need to get right. In essence, the business and the kind of services it provides are closely described by categories. They represent how many customers will locate you when conducting local searches. First, pick a [primary category](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2021/05/06/why-google-my-business-is-more-important-than-ever-in-2021/amp/) that accurately describes your company. Caterers, pet groomers, and Certified Public Accountants are examples.  The next step is to include additional categories pertinent to your particular company. Please use these to quickly educate current and potential customers on your company and its services, such as tax preparation services. If your company provides multiple related services, this classification is especially crucial. Remember that the more significant data you give to research, the more upgraded your Google My Business profile listing will be. ### 3\. USPS-approved Addresses  Check the exact USPS-approved address for your business location before beginning the optimization process for your Google My Business profile. In your profile, make sure to use this exact address information. Include everything you need about your address, like your room or suite number and entire nine-digit zip code. Edit for errors, as these can obstruct your rankings on Google Guides. Also, mark the box in your GMB settings allowing you to display address data. The more information Google has about your business, the higher the chances it’ll be included in the Local 3-Pack. ### 4\. GMB Listing Verification  You’ll be expected to complete the verification as you claim your Google My Business Profile listing. This [verification procedure](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-complete-guide-to-google-search-console/) is usually completed via postal mail and is carried out directly through Google. A postcard containing a one-of-a-kind PIN will be sent to the location provided in your profile by Google. To guarantee confirmation and faster help, make certain to remember the accompanying data for your GMB Profile: - Legal business name - Select the correct primary category and, if necessary, any additional categories - appropriate physical location - the naming of the service areas - Working hours - the number for the local area - Site interface - services or products you offer On average, this might take up to two weeks to complete the verification process. On certain occasions, Google might consider telephone confirmation, however, don’t rely on this. Instead, prepare to wait and consider using the other optimization suggestions on this list. ### 5\. Quality Photos  Customers notice you when you use high-quality photos, giving them a more visually appealing experience that makes you stand out. Google claims that companies with photos in their Google My Business profiles get more attention and clicks than those without. Your company’s logo and a cover photo are two in particular that must be included in every GMB profile. Not exclusively will photographs earn you more consideration, yet you can likewise enhance them for search. Some methods for achieving this include: - Ensure all photographs you add are great - Don’t use stock images - Include interior and exterior photographs of your physical store - Include images of your services or your products - Include relevant keywords, location tags (city, country, and geographic location), relevant keywords, and a mention of the relevant services you provide in your metadata for each image Also, remember that customers can add their pictures to your Google My Business profile, especially when they add reviews. Your SEO may benefit from the user-generated content (UGC) these newly added photos provide. ### 6\. Content Optimization  In addition to the area address data and business classifications, you can add limited content to your Google My Business Profile posting. This gives significantly more ways of upgrading your advanced showcasing methodology. The business description and Google My Business Posts are two content areas you should make the most of. #### Google My Business Description  Begin with a business description that is optimized. This means giving customers a brief overview of your company and what you can offer.  Here are a few tips to help. - Keep your depiction brief - Include your current business locations in some way in your description - Notice what administrations or items you give - Determine what distinguishes you from your competitors - Include links to relevant web pages, of course, on your own! Also, know the difference between using the short description that Google allows and the longer description. The most important difference is where they appear. In the Google search results, you’ll see a brief description. When a customer clicks on your company, longer descriptions appear. #### Google My Business Post Google My Business Posts have text, a link, and an image or video, like updates to social media posts. Even though not all businesses can access these posts on Google, if you do, develop a strategy around them for maximum impact. You can utilize these presents to pass on an assortment of data, including the accompanying. - Update customers regarding COVID-19. - Make offers known - Events that stand out - Spotlight an item or administration - Inform customers about your company’s latest developments - Give updates during business hours Like how you describe your business, use relevant keywords or phrases, but don’t use too many. Posts stay noticeable for a set amount of time, as coordinated by Google. Particular sorts of posts, for example, an update, will be active for seven days. Up to eight posts can typically appear simultaneously. To see more, the watcher should tap on a “view all” choice to look at every one of your posts. Incorporate these GMB posts in your overall marketing procedure so you can keep focused and center around your definitive objective. Some hints to assist you with capitalizing on this content element include: - Always post high-quality content - Keep away from language and spelling mistakes - Avoid incorporating gimmicks - Always treat your audience with respect - Only link to reliable websites Use a few spaces accessible on your Google My Business profile to give compelling and advanced content. ### 7\. Encourage User Reviews  Your profile should have reviews from both new and returning customers. The review request should be included on receipts, email campaigns, and wherever else you think it should be. You can also give customers incentives to leave reviews, such as a coupon in exchange. Reviews are yet another type of user-generated content that can help your business. Your social proof will grow as a result of positive customer reviews. This will draw in additional clients who value hearing positive things from others and are bound to buy from your business. These reviews will appear at the bottom of the panel, accessible to anyone when a viewer clicks on your business. However, you will need at least five customers to display any reviews. Determine how you will respond to positive and negative customer reviews and devise a strategy for encouraging them. Keep all Google rules on answering client reviews also. ## To Wrap Up! Increasing your visibility in Google Maps marketing, like other optimization efforts for digital marketing, can and probably will take time. This indicates no easy shortcuts, quick fixes, or quick ways to reach the pack’s top.  Regardless of whether you carry out every one of the enhancements above, it might, in any case, take some time for your business’s visibility to develop further in Google Maps. Notwithstanding, don’t surrender. Keep up with your optimization efforts, update your profile and information, and concentrate on what matters: taking care of your customers. Optimizing your Google Maps Marketing efforts can significantly boost your marketing strategy if you are a local business. You can significantly increase conversions and revenue, increase your reach, rank higher in search results, and improve your reach by claiming your Google My Business profile, optimizing that profile, and ensuring that you appear in Google Maps. Like this post? Check out other posts on how to optimize your business marketing skills: - [How Does SEO Improve Marketing On The Global Scale](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-seo-improve-marketing-on-the-global-scale/) - [Master Marketing With Data Analytics: How to Get Sustainable Results](https://alejandrorioja.com/master-marketing-with-data-analytics/) - [Growth Marketing Strategies Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/growth-marketing-strategies-guide/) Leave a comment on what else you want to read about next! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top 5 Business Process Management Software (BPMS) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-business-process-management-software-bpms/ Published: 2023-05-31 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Choosing the best Business Process Management Software (BPMS) can revolutionize your organization’s efficiency and productivity. With BPM software, you can automate tasks, streamline workflows, and foster collaboration among teams. When selecting BPM software, key factors include workflow automation, process modeling, collaboration features, and integration capabilities. By carefully evaluating your organization’s needs and assessing the available options, you’ll discover the right BPM software that aligns with your specific requirements. Invest in a robust BPM software solution to optimize your business processes, eliminate bottlenecks, and drive success in today’s competitive landscape. [Creating a million-dollar eCommerce business](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) and maintaining its leanness are in constant conflict. And in today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, leaders see increasing importance for companies to streamline their operations. But how can a business maintain effectiveness while implementing new strategies and hiring personnel? That’s where Business Process Management Software (BPMS) comes into play. BPMS provides a comprehensive solution for optimizing business processes, automating tasks, and fostering collaboration among teams. If you think improving your business processes would be a good idea, I’ll provide all the information required to select the best Business Process Management Software. I’ll also explore some of the top BPM software options available, highlighting their key features and benefits. ## What Is A Business Process Management Software? Business Process Management Software assists in defining, automating, and generating reports on processes aimed at enhancing businesses’ ability to achieve company objectives. These software tools are designed to optimize and improve the efficiency of day-to-day operations and workflows within organizations. BPMS enables the clear definition of processes encompassing all areas of a company’s operations while providing ongoing monitoring capabilities. Moreover, these tools can automate processes, further enhancing their effectiveness. ## Types of Business Process Management Software Before I dive into the top Business Process Management Software, let’s first go through the different types of BMPS: ### 1\. Document-centric When a document is at the center of the process, the BMPS is document-centric. Document-centric BMPS includes functions like formatting, verification, project management, document management, and obtaining document signatures. ### 2\. Human-centric Human-centric BPMS is utilized for processes that are carried out by people and typically need staff approvals. Simple tracking and notifications in an understandable interface that’s part of this kind of BPMS. ### 3\. Integration-centric If you use CRM and ERP systems, using integration-centric BPMS is essential. Since these systems can access APIs to speed up operations, integration-centric BPMS is typically employed to lessen human involvement. ## Criteria for the Best Business Process Management Software Here are the most crucial factors to check when selecting your BPMS tool include the following: 1. Easy to customize – an effective BPMS should be highly customizable so that you can simply modify it to meet your changing company demands. 2. Numerous integrations – your BPMS must be integrated with every piece of current business software. Choose one that provides a variety of integrations. 3. Simple to use – you don’t want to have to depend on your IT staff all the time for updates and the development of new workflows. Look for software that doesn’t require coding skills, has drag-and-drop functionality, and offers various templates. 4. Tools for reporting – your BPMS should have effective reporting capabilities to gauge how productive your process management is. 5. Collaboration – a BPMS should provide desktop, iOS, and Android interconnectivity choices for simple collaboration. 6. Back-end support – when purchasing a BPMS, ensure it comes with assistance from its developers so you can address any difficulties immediately. ## Top Business Process Management Software in 2023 Here are the five best Business Process Management Software. I detail each software’s features so you can compare each one: ### 1\. Monday.com Monday.com is one of the [productivity tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) out there that walks the walk. It is one of the greatest business process management software options available, with a ton of features. These features include resource and project management, time tracking, communication tools, and reporting. And each feature can help your company processes reach new heights. For example, with the help of its excellent reporting dashboard, you and your team may collect information from other boards and monitor one another’s advancement. You can also use the Person, Date, Status, or Timeline filters to display their data on boards. This way, you can track who is responsible for what on the project. Plus, you can determine whether somebody is working too much so you may equalize the burden. Additionally, team members communicate exclusively via the boards.  #### Top Features - Highly customizable - Great for branding - Drag & Drop Interface - Has Dropbox, Google Drive, and Pipedrive integrations - Easy data export and import - Fast file sharing - Notifications and email updates ### 2\. Zoho Creator Next on the list is the [Zoho](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zoho-is-positioned-as-a-leader-in-the-2022-spark-matrix-for-project-and-portfolio-management-by-quadrant-knowledge-solutions-301816978.html) Creator, which gives you great of flexibility when mapping and automating your business processes. Although it won’t be as simple right away, you can customize this BPMS to your exact needs. It’s a platform for creating low-code applications that may be used to create several flexible business process workflows. Thanks to the templates and drag-and-drop platform in Zoho Creator, anyone will start to think they are a developer after a few weeks of use. Zoho Creator is something to consider if you’re concerned about the restrictions on automation or customization that simpler BPMS have. Although the UI isn’t eye-catching, it’s simple to use, and you can build complex programs to automate your business processes. #### Top Features - Has tons of ready-to-use apps - Has a developer sandbox - Superb audit trail - Schema builder ### 3\. Process Street For smaller companies, Process Street is a good business process management software. With Process Street, you can easily construct automated workflows, recurring tasks, and checklists using a drag-and-drop interface. You can delegate work assignments, track project progress, and even employee training. The BPMS supports Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, and Windows Phone platforms and offers cloud-based deployment. Although it can be used to design more complex workflows, Process Street enables the execution of workflows that involve collaboration. Plus, it has a quicker generation of process documents using drag and drop and intuitive keyboard shortcuts. #### Top Features - Has more than 3,000 integrations - Great email and chat support - Code-free interface - Has various templates you can use ### 4\. Kissflow [Kissflow](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kissflow-rolls-out-an-enhanced-version-of-its-powerful-productivity-platform-to-manage-ad-hoc-and-unstructured-workflow-for-hybrid-teams-301438024.html) is an excellent choice for human resources process management. The BPMS can do timesheet management, employee onboarding, invoice approval workflow, and vacation request approvals, making it. Additionally, it enables you to speed up the payment process with tools like purchase order administration, workflow processes for purchase requisitions, and payment process approvals.  What’s also great about Kissflow is that businesses can create a new system and, if necessary, a new application. And if they want to take it up a notch, Kissflow’s premium subscriptions offer features like workflow management and process management. #### Top Features - Real-time monitoring and process tracking - Advanced Reporting - Supports Zapier for SaaS integration - Code-free workflows - Dynamic routing ### 5\. Pipefy Due to its friendly and simple interface, [Pipefy](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pipefy-celebrates-win-as-best-procure-to-pay-software-in-the-7th-annual-fintech-breakthrough-awards-301779273.html) is gaining a lot of traction in the world of BPMS. Pipefy will fit like a puzzle for businesses already managing processes inside a Kanban framework. Although it has the strength of business process management software, this platform has the look, feel, and flexibility of an agile project management tool. That’s why many large corporations, including Volvo and Warner Brothers, rely on the highly adaptable low-code platform.  Piepfy has a strong form builder and focuses on request management and approval flows. Although it offers a free tier with fewer functionality, accessing the more sophisticated features can be pricey.  #### Top Features - Kanban view function - Great dashboards for reports - Self-service forms and portals ## Why Use Business Process Management Software? There are many key advantages of utilizing BPMS. For me, it’s the ability to take a comprehensive view of the entire organization and make them applicable to any department that sets BMPS apart. Additionally, BPMS often incorporates case management features, leading to frequent integration with CRM software. Other benefits of business process management software are: - Efficiency – using business process management software, everyone in the team can rapidly verify specific information without having to search for it or cause a distraction. - Alignment – it’s much simpler to keep all team members focused on the same objectives and the same path if everyone has easy access to all of the information. - Scalability – you can speed up the onboarding process, clearly define roles and duties, and view all risks and possibilities using only one software. - Free of errors — once you import the data into the BPMS, it will all be safe and available to everyone on your team. This will assist you in preventing mistakes while moving data between platforms. - Foster collaboration – collaboration functions in BPMS, like messaging, file sharing, and notification systems, guarantee that everyone is aware of the situation at all times. - Heighten productivity – you can optimize profits and rapidly spot endpoints that require improvement. Bottlenecks can be removed, duplicate processes can be stopped, and performance-enhancing changes may be made.  ## Implementing a BPMS in Your Business Realizing that you must streamline your business operations is just a stepping stone. But carrying it through can be challenging. Here are some actions I highly recommend you do when implementing business process management software in your company: 1. Look at the bigger picture – you need to step back and check your business and processes as a whole. You must figure out how to organize things into repeatable, optimized processes. 2. Flexibility is the key – don’t impose rigid guidelines on others or demand that they conduct business in your exact manner. Your company may become overly rigid and unable to adapt to changes if your processes are too rigid. 3. Empower – processes must be viewed as a tool to empower your team. It’s critical that everyone understands the processes from the beginning and how they will work together.  ## Automate Your Processes with BPMPs Selecting the right business process management software can have a profound impact on [setting up your eCommerce store](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/). The right BPM software can help you automate repetitive tasks, eliminate bottlenecks, and streamline your operations to ensure optimal performance. Throughout this article, I have explored some of the best BPM software options, each with unique features and benefits. Whether you prioritize workflow automation, process modeling, collaboration, or integration capabilities, BPM software can meet your specific requirements. Before making your choice, don’t forget to thoroughly review your company’s requirements, weigh the available solutions, and consider elements like scalability, usability, and customer support. By making the appropriate BPM software investment, you can quickly improve your company processes and increase efficiency. Here’s to a future of streamlined workflows and increased productivity! Did I miss any amazing Business Process Management Software? Comment below and tell me what you think about them. And if you’re curious to learn more about other business productivity topics, check out these articles: - [How To Be Super Productive: Killer Productivity Tips 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tips/) - [16 Best Productivity Tools of 2023: Features and Benefits](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) - [Top Tips To Optimizing Your Business’ Contribution Margin Ratio](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-to-optimizing-your-business-contribution-margin-ratio/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## The Fall of MySpace and What It Looks Like Today Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/the-fall-of-myspace-and-what-it-looks-like-today/ Published: 2023-05-26 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line If you were a young adult in the early 2000s, you more than likely remember the era of MySpace. MySpace was one of the very first social media platforms, but the platform quickly fizzled out despite all the hype it had. What happened to this promising platform that saw its demise?   According to reports, MySpace fizzled for various reasons, including competition, since the platform peaked at the same time as other platforms surfaced. The website debuted in August 2003 and became the world’s leading social media platform. Its fame, however, would be short-lived, as other social media platforms like Facebook quickly overtook it. It took a few great minds to come together and start MySpace, which started as an idea under eUniverse. Similar programs had been launched before MySpace, but none had taken it quite to MySpace’s vision! I remember my very first account and the excitement I felt at meeting people worldwide! However, despite skyrocketing to fame as the most popular, globally recognized social media platform, it would die in the most devastating way a decade later. Its fall from popularity would be almost as great as the success that catapulted it there! MySpace peaked around 2008, but then it vanished from the face of the earth, leaving many to wonder what went wrong. Why did this global sensation fail so dismally? Read on to learn about the rise and fall of MySpace. ## What Was MySpace? MySpace was a social networking site that allowed users to create profiles, send messages, and post pictures. You could also connect with other users and see who viewed your profile or sent you a message.  The platform allowed users to network and connect over pop culture, different types of technology, and music and share interests over many other topics. MySpace’s popularity grew rapidly in its first few years, even serving as a springboard for other popular platforms like YouTube. Unlike Facebook, MySpace users frequently use fictitious nicknames rather than real names. Members could connect with friends, follow official accounts (mostly those of musicians), write blog posts, and participate in various forums. Apart from socializing, the platform also emphasized the promotion of musicians. It even had a dedicated section just for music, called MySpace Music, where users could listen to and share songs. Users could personalize their profiles with simple HTML and CSS commands, which was one of the main reasons why MySpace was so popular. Overall, this was an exciting time, and though My Space is only a shell of what it used to be, it was the pioneer for many social networks today! ## Peak Era And Acquisition  Thanks to social networks like MySpace, the late 2000s earned their place in history as the golden age of social media. While other networks like Friendster had been developed before MySpace and experienced relative success, none had reached the milestones that this powerhouse would.  At its peak, MySpace would garner millions of subscribers of all ages, from budding teens to college students.  ### Customizability The early setup was almost a learning tool, exposing people to different music and coding! It was interactive and possibly one of the most customizable websites, allowing users to [make their profiles as unique](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/) as possible! This required users to gain a basic understanding of HTML and coding. For some, this was their first exposure to coding and Javascript, and the skills they learned from this platform would help many as they advanced to various careers. These tools allowed subscribers to transform virtual spaces into anything they wanted- a cool locker or a cozy bedroom space!  Compared to platforms like Facebook, which offered the same default template for users, this customizability would be one of the greatest aspects that set MySpace apart and made it better! In general, they created an intimate community where you could engage with friends you’d made on the platform. ### Allowed People to Express Themselves Freely Unlike Facebook, which was more formal and required users to enter their real names, MySpace allowed people to register under their nicknames or cool funky aliases. This was exciting for most, allowing them to create various characters and identities they could share with the world! A fun tool for this that allowed free expression was the blogging feature that allowed users to share their thoughts. This would be a trailblazing move, particularly for members of the LGBTQ+ community, who shared that they felt freer to share who they truly were online.  Because of this level of anonymity, the platform would attract more people, allowing people to connect authentically without worrying about public perception. You wouldn’t be wrong to say that MySpace was one of the pioneers of being culturally “woke.” The platform allowed users to share music and indulge in new sounds while helping musicians grow their fan bases and connect with the public. Bands also often interacted with fans, and undiscovered artists could share their demos to get discovered! ## Early Signs of Doom Unfortunately, as one of the very first global social networks, MySpace had a lot of obstacles stacked against it. Experts identify some of these issues as being linked to data breaches, similar to what modern-day networking giants like Facebook face.  ### Cyberbullying and Online Safety Concerns Apart from that, some people took advantage of the anonymity offered by the platform and started [cyberbullying, threatening child safety](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228214652_MySpace_is_Also_Their_Space_Ideas_for_Keeping_Children_Safe_from_Sexual_Predators_on_Social-Networking_Sites). This was especially important since most users were teenagers, young adults, and underage users.  ### Rise of Facebook Others argue that the timing of Facebook’s fame also contributed to the fall of MySpace. At first, the two seemed to have well-defined lanes; with Facebook catering to mainly college students, these lines would quickly blur, and the two sites started to compete for users. In 2008, things changed as Facebook continued to expand beyond its initial “[target” demographic](https://alejandrorioja.com/do-i-need-to-hire-writers-for-niche-website-content/).  While at one point, Myspace’s traffic was even higher than Google’s, it’s unfortunate that they could not maintain their position as the leading social media platform for too long. Their attempt to reclaim their position after being overtaken by Facebook lost them up to ten million users in less than a month in 2011.  Eventually, it was resold to Specific Media Group along with Justin Timberlake, under whom it would largely switch to becoming a music promotion site. ## Why Did MySpace Fail? You may be wondering why Myspace failed. The answer is complicated, as several micro mistakes led to its ultimate demise.  ### Target Audience MySpace was a great social network, but it didn’t have the user experience to keep people coming back. One of the main reasons experts suggest could have contributed to its demise is limiting their target audience only to cater to “music lovers.”  It’s assumed that it might have seen more success if they had targeted more overall. This was particularly detrimental when its competition, Facebook, was rising, offering a more “older site” to interact on. ### Deletion of Content On top of that, years after they’d fallen off, the platform lost lots of content accumulated between 2003 and 2015, which was deleted. This left the few loyal supporters even more devastated, with most finally accepting their losses and departing from the site, never to return. ### Website Design Change Another blunder they made was enforcing too many changes at once. To overtake Facebook, they changed the site’s look and feel by introducing a 360 in their design. As they’d later learn, this would cost them a lot since most users hate drastic changes.  People like what they’re used to, and when too many things change at once, they’re likely to abandon ship entirely. And this is what happened with MySpace. ### Security Concerns Another factor was the issue of security. While several other social networks also struggle with this issue, an alarming number of sex offenders were found on the platform, hiding behind “anonymous identities.  With many parents filing lawsuits and taking their kids off the internet, MySpace would never be the same again. Their image was tarnished, and many people moved on to the next best thing then – Facebook. ### Poor Management Experts also weigh in that another mistake that cost them was due to an administrative blunder, where they declined to buy Facebook at its grassroots when they had the chance!  With so many other “cool” sites popping up, MySpace failed to regain the traction it once had and eventually succumbed to the weight of its poor management. Even their attempt at rebranding would backfire, losing the interest of many users.  ## What Later Happened To Myspace? Since then, the business has been passed around a few times and is owned by Specific Media. Under the new leadership and what appeared to be an attempt at rebranding, they introduced MySpace Music. However, it never regained prestige and struggled to get new, unique visitors.  ## What Did Facebook Do Differently? Facebook is a social media platform that Mark Zuckerberg created. It was launched in 2004 and has become one of the world’s most popular social media sites. Facebook is also known for its “like” button, which allows users to express their emotions about content on the site (and even share it with friends). Facebook’s main purpose is connecting people with their friends and family members—but what makes it so different from Myspace? For the most part, Facebook seems to [excel at most things MySpace was failing at](https://www.forbes.com/sites/adamhartung/2011/01/14/why-facebook-beat-myspace/). Where MySpace chose to double down and cater to a specific group, Facebook kept a more open approach, creating a platform that appealed to different people.  While they focused on college students at first, they expanded to business owners and the older working crowd as time passed. This small change would open them to [more visitors and subscribers](https://alejandrorioja.com/viral-content-creation-tips-to-generate-2500-visitors-per-day/) than MySpace. The internet is a fast-changing space, and while, at first, niches were great and seemed to thrive, people demanded more, and Facebook adapted to offer just that.  ## Does MySpace Still Exist? Once considered the king of social media, MySpace has since been relegated to the dustbin of history. However, you’d be surprised to learn that it’s still around, though its [impact and presence have significantly changed](https://www.forbes.com/sites/michelecatalano/2013/01/17/myspace-attempts-to-rise-from-the-ashes/?sh=29e04de22873). While still considered a social media platform, it now features news feeds and mainly focuses more on music sharing, also dabbling in lifestyle topics. However, it is a good place to check out if you’re a music fan and want to discover genres that aren’t mainstream and connect with other music lovers. The number of visitors they get, not to speak of their actual subscribers, is peanuts compared to where they started. However, they could be worth checking out if you are a music lover. ## What Does the Future Hold? MySpace had the potential to be the global powerhouse for entertainers and music lovers all over. Sadly, they most likely missed their chance and will never reclaim that spot. So, while MySpace might only be a shell of what it used to be, other networks have risen since then to try and fill the gap.  SpaceHey, for example, is a platform that shares similarly exciting features that MySpace users love. So who knows, maybe in a few years, users might gain something to remind them of most people’s first taste at online social networking! If you want to learn more about different social networks, be sure to check out my blog:  - [How The Facebook Ads Library Helps Your Business Grow](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-the-facebook-ads-library-helps-your-business-grow/) - [Top 8 Facebook Ads Tools That Can Help You As A Marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-facebook-ads-tools-that-can-help-you-as-a-marketer/) - [Maximizing Your Facebook Experience With Facebook Touch: Tips And Tricks](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-facebook-touch/) Comment down below what else you’d like me to talk about! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Kickstarter Unveiled: How The Platform Generates Revenue Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-kickstarter-work-make-money/ Published: 2023-05-24 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: The platform has launched over 500,000 projects totaling $5.4 billion as of November 2020. The idea behind Kickstarter is that if you want something done but don’t have the money yourself, you can crowdsource the funds by asking for donations from thousands of people online. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Kickstarter is an online platform that enables creative projects to raise funds from the public. The site offers creators various services, including profiles, project pages, and updates.  As an entrepreneur, I understand the struggle of finding funding for your ideas and the importance of getting an audience to help you get started. This is where platforms like Kickstarter come in! Entrepreneurs can also access funding mechanisms such as fixed reward levels, pay-it-forward options, advanced analytics tools, and payment processing integration with major credit cards. Kickstarter has worked with over one million projects in over one hundred countries since its founding in 2009. ## What is Kickstarter? Kickstarter is a [crowdfunding platform](https://www.forbes.com/sites/nealtaparia/2020/08/26/how-to-use-kickstarter-as-your-secret-weapon/?sh=bc9b4781539d) where the public can support creative projects. It’s not just for developers and app creators; you can use it to fund any project, from musicians to filmmakers and designers.  It’s a public benefit organization headquartered in Brooklyn, well known for its crowdsourcing platform. Kickstarter was established in 2009 to assist in realizing creative ideas by Perry Chen, Yancey Strickler, and Charles Adler.  This indicates that various creatives use the platform, including musicians, filmmakers, comedians, journalists, and gamers. The platform has launched over 500,000 projects totaling $5.4 billion as of November 2020. The idea behind Kickstarter is that if you want something done but don’t have the money yourself, you can crowdsource the funds by asking for donations from thousands of people online. ## How Kickstarter Works Kickstarter works by allowing people or businesses to create accounts on their site, then set up campaigns that describe what they need money for (called “projects”).  With a predetermined financial target, the creators post their projects on the platform. They describe every aspect of their proposal in text, photographs, and videos and even list the benefits backers will receive if they support it. It’s like Amazon but for art and design projects.  The site lets you look at the projects and decide if you want to help them. If a project reaches its goal, it is funded, and the backers who support it receive incentives. The rewards can be broken into tiers, with high levels of support leading to higher payouts. People who support innovative ideas do so voluntarily or for the benefits they receive.  Financial support is provided, and the benefits are determined by the amount of money pledged. When the funding target has been met, the amount backers pledged is charged to their credit cards, and creators receive the money. The goodies promised to the backers are delivered. ## Revenue Generation It uses a [funding model](https://www.forbes.com/sites/tanyaprive/2012/10/12/top-10-benefits-of-crowdfunding-2/?sh=742872902c5e) known as all-or-nothing. This implies that neither the creator nor its backers receive any money if the project’s financing goal is not reached. As a result, the business argues that this model generates more revenue for Kickstarter and the creator. Financial objectives inspire collaboration among creators and backers, instilling urgency. A sense of community is created when both parties successfully fund a project and cross the finish line together. Kickstarter does not charge a fee for failed projects; the money is returned to the backers. ## How Does Kickstarter Make Money? A portion of the funds earned for particular projects on the fundraising platform goes to Kickstarter as revenue. Users can post projects that need funding thanks to Kickstarter’s business strategy. These projects must reach a predefined level for the money to be transferred from the donors to the creators. Kickstarter retains 5% of the total funds raised for a project if funding reaches or exceeds the designated donation level.  None of the parties involved will contribute or receive funds if a project falls short of its financing goal. The majority of [Kickstarter’s revenue](https://www.businessinsider.com/kickstarter-revenue-2010-10) is obtained through this technique. Processing charges are another revenue stream for Kickstarter. Kickstarter deducts a 3% processing charge from the money raised by its creators and an additional $0.20 per pledge of funding.  ## Areas Of Operation Fortunately, the platform is available worldwide, so well-wishers can contribute, regardless of where they are. The only requirement is that they have working credit cards and verified Kickstarter accounts.  For creators, however, the supported addresses include the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Netherlands, and more than ten countries. Before getting verified, your address will be checked and must fall under the covered countries. If you’re trying to raise funds for a specific entity or nonprofit, you’ll be expected to launch the project within the same country as that listed for the entity. ## Services Offered  Not all services are available for every idea. One of the offered services is providing a marketing platform for your idea. Social platforms, for example, can direct attention to any potential business idea or creative project. By providing unified platforms, funding backers can support a project’s efforts to bring an idea to life.  In return, the creators offer certain rewards to backers, including a copy of the final product. Kickstarter isn’t a disconnected store that supports haphazard funding. It’s set up to ensure that only those projects that have received enough support can access the pledged funds.  So, unless the project reaches its funding goal, Kickstarter doesn’t charge anything. Only when the venture has been subsidized effectively does Kickstarter charge an expensive fee. ## Business Model Kickstarter’s business model is multifaceted. Its structure is planned so that the company generates revenue from fees cut from the successfully pledged projects as commission fees. In general, most of Kickstarter’s advertising is conducted on social media. This allows the public to share the projects they believe in with friends and spread the word. Meeting well-wishers this way makes this [marketing strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/growth-marketing-strategies-guide/) more effective! If people see a project they want to donate to, they can access their Kickstarter accounts, where the rest of the funding and tracking happens. ## Operating Model The following terms must be understood to comprehend Kickstarter’s operating model or operation:  ### Creators:  Individuals or groups with products or concepts who post on the website and launch a Kickstarter Campaign to raise funds for their endeavors. They can risk-free pitch an idea for a project through Kickstarter. If they don’t get full financing, they continue. If successful, they can claim all the money they need to finish the project. ### Backers:  When they see a project worth investing in, they are the people who pledge their money. They are the people to whom the creators must appeal. They either voluntarily support the product or look for returns from them. Free goodies, discounts, invitations to events, and other incentives are all examples of returns. ### Project**:**  A “project” refers to the novel concept for which the hopeful creators present and need funding. To succeed, the campaign must have a clear goal backers can support. ### The goal for Funding**:**  It’s how much cash the makers need to finish their task. Every Kickstarter project has a predetermined funding target. The maker gets the cash solely after the venture comes to or surpasses its subsidizing objectives. Similarly, backers’ credit cards are only debited once the project is fully funded. ### Rewards**:**  These are the goodies that the creatives offer to backers in exchange for their support. It could be one-of-a-kind experiences, limited editions, or creative work being made. ## Risks Kickstarter is a great way to raise money for your project, but it comes with [risks like any other business venture](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-compliance-risks-here-is-what-you-need-to-know/). You can’t control the success of your campaign or how much money you’ll make once it’s over. However, the supporters and innovators behind the proposals run less of a risk under this system.  Kickstarter holds the pledged fees until the financial goal is met before being released to the project makers. That way, they get their money back if the project isn’t a success. However, just like the creators, if the project doesn’t take off even after getting enough funding, they’ll have invested their money for nothing.  The creative parties can discover that they require more money than originally anticipated. And even if they get the money they requested, they may still have unfinished plans or projects and cannot return the money to their backers. Some things can be done to reduce the risk of running and failing. ## Target Audience  Because anyone interested in supporting a project can become a member of Kickstarter, the platform does not have a [specific target audience](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-definitive-guide-to-crafting-a-professional-press-kit-for-your-business/). The target demographic for Kickstarter indicates that 78% of its users are men and 22% are women.  Most users of Kickstarter are between the ages of 25 and 35. Because they would generate funding, the creators who share their ideas require an audience. With the assistance of conduct focusing, one can interface with genuine individuals. These individuals with whom you can get associated are the ones who have upheld projects like yours. Through advertisements, your Kickstarter project will recommend others who have backed similar projects for you to connect with them. One of Kickstarter’s most common forms of marketing is behavioral targeting.  Therefore, if you have an imaginative concept, you might get support from someone who shares your interests. As previously stated, Kickstarter has provided funding for more than 200,000 projects. ## Payment Methods  Both backers and creatives must have active credit or debit cards like VISA or MasterCards, JCB, UnionPay, Discover, or American Express. Unfortunately, PayPal payments aren’t accepted for now.  Pledgers are advised to ensure their accounts have a minimum of $1 (or the equivalent in whatever currency) above the amount they’ll pledge. This helps ensure there won’t be problems when debiting your pledge amount. ## Fund Your Dreams With Kickstarter Crowdfunding has become a popular way for startups and established brands to raise money from investors and supporters. That’s why platforms like Kickstarter are great for creators to get their projects off the ground. Whether you’re a beginner or an established creative, Kickstarter is reliable for various projects, connecting you with well-wishers who can finance your dreams! You can easily start today even if you don’t have a successful Kickstarter campaign. Kickstarter provides a platform that will hopefully allow you to build up your audience over time and ultimately get your products or services in the public eye! If you found this article insightful, here are more resources you can use to learn more about crowdfunding as an entrepreneur: - [Finding The Best Crowdfunding Platform: Kickstarter Vs. Indiegogo](https://alejandrorioja.com/kickstarter-vs-indiegogo/) - [26 Best Fiverr Gigs Of 2023 To Grow Your Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-fiverr-gigs/) - [Guide to Becoming an Entrepreneur: Useful Tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-an-entrepreneur/) Let me know in the comments section what other crowdfunding tips you want me to discuss! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Google Maps vs. Waze: Which Navigation App Reigns Supreme? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/google-maps-vs-waze-which-navigation-app-is-better/ Published: 2023-05-15 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: In 2013, Google acquired the app for a whopping $1 billion and subsequently transformed it into a driver-focused community platform. Waze relies on a community of dedicated users who provide real-time information about road conditions, such as accidents, traffic congestion, speed traps, and police presence, to name… ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Google Maps and Waze are wildly popular navigation apps, but their differences are both subtle and significant. While Google Maps may be more intuitive and user-friendly, Waze focuses on engaging its users to deliver up-to-the-minute traffic updates and real-time accident notifications.  With its community-based features, Waze is better suited for urban drivers seeking quick, accurate updates to help them navigate crowded streets. On the other hand, Google Maps offers a wider range of features, including information on public transportation and offline maps, that will appeal to those who explore unfamiliar areas.  Ultimately, the decision on which app to use comes down to a personal choice based on your unique navigation needs and preferences. However, with both Google Maps and Waze, you can rest assured that you’re getting a top-notch navigation experience. Once upon a time, navigating the labyrinthine roads relied solely on the archaic methods of Gregory’s map and one’s innate sense of direction. However, the advent of intuitive technology completely overhauled the way we drive. And when you thought it couldn’t get any better, the meteoric rise of navigation applications takes it up a notch. In the present day, with the likes of Google Maps or Waze, the world is your oyster, and it’s all at your fingertips. These apps provide a veritable cornucopia of information that ranges from the mundane to the extraordinary.  You’ll never be left in the dark, from pedestrian directions to crafty shortcuts, savvy tips on circumventing traffic, and forewarnings about congestion and detours. It’s the perfect co-pilot, without any fuss, as GPS technology makes driving a veritable cakewalk. ## Getting to Know Google Maps Google Maps is the clear winner in the navigation app game compared to Waze. While Waze focuses on drivers, Google Maps offers comprehensive navigation services to anyone who needs it, whether commuting via public transit, walking, biking, or driving.  But wait, there’s more! In addition to providing directions, the app also features valuable information on local landmarks and nearby businesses. As an Android-based app, Google Maps integrates with all the essential Android phone features, such as [Google Assistant](https://alejandrorioja.com/common-google-analytics-data-errors-a-guide-on-how-to-fix-them/), Google Street View, and Google Search. On top of that, the app offers Waze-like features, such as real-time traffic data, to ensure you reach your destination efficiently.  And let’s not forget about the AR (augmented reality) feature, which makes exploring new neighborhoods even more thrilling! ## Getting to Know Waze Despite tough competition from Google Maps, Waze has cultivated a loyal user base since its inception in 2008. In 2013, Google acquired the app for a whopping $1 billion and subsequently transformed it into a driver-focused community platform. Waze relies on a community of dedicated users who provide real-time information about road conditions, such as accidents, traffic congestion, speed traps, and police presence, to name a few. This starkly contrasts Google Maps, which relies heavily on data. Drivers can use this information to avoid hazardous situations and save time on their commutes. To increase its appeal to users, Waze has introduced a variety of new features. For example, the app now seamlessly integrates with Siri and Google Assistant, allowing drivers to use voice commands for navigation and other tasks while on the go. ## Comparing the Two Navigation Apps Although having the same goal—to make driving more convenient—Google Maps and Waze each have advantages. There are several parallels between Google Maps and Waze, including that they are both owned by [Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-google-currents-a-comprehensive-overview/).  Even though they share many features and have a lot in common, the two services operate very differently from one another. Waze depends more on crowdsourcing, but Google Maps is all about data and has years of data to rely back upon. Also, it offers a very aggressive mode of transportation.  Which navigation program is better between Waze and Google Maps, despite the fact that there might be just a slight difference between the two services? ### App Navigation In this day and age, the go-to navigation app is none other than the ubiquitous Google Maps. Whether by foot, bike, bus, or automobile, Google Maps will always find a way to get you where you need to go.  It’s almost like having a personal concierge in your pocket. Not only that, but the app can alert you to pesky roadblocks or traffic snarls and provide alternative routes to save you time. But wait, there’s more! Enter Waze, a navigation app that’s geared specifically towards those who prefer the open road on two or four wheels.  Waze is like a hawk on the hunt, constantly scanning its surroundings to bring you to your destination with speed and precision rather than simply selecting the shortest path. Both apps may use the number of users on the route to predict traffic conditions, but Waze goes the extra mile. The key difference between the two is that Google Maps will happily lead you down the same predetermined path no matter what. Meanwhile, Waze will adjust on the fly to account for changes in real time.  Both services display traffic and obstructions on the screen, and if things get particularly gnarly, they might suggest an alternative route, but they’re not too pushy about it. ### Risks and Traffic When navigating obstructions reported by other users, Waze doesn’t mess around. It’s not afraid to take you on a wild ride down winding back roads to shave off a few precious seconds from your estimated arrival time. Talk about dedication!  In contrast, Google Maps is more cautious and less adventurous, which is perfectly fine. Now, let’s talk about how both apps handle reporting dangerous road conditions. Google Maps may allow you to report speed cameras, but its accuracy leaves much to be desired.  Case in point: during a 45-mile trip from my humble abode to London, Google Maps only identified paltry two-speed cameras. On the other hand, Waze may have some gaps in its data, but it more than makes up for it with sheer numbers.  It’s almost ironic that Google’s sophisticated data-gathering system falls short compared to Waze’s trusty crowdsourcing. ### Public Transit and Other Alternatives Making a choice on this is simple. Waze has nothing to offer whether you’re using the bus, the train, or alternative transportation. Nothing at all. Waze is designed to reroute you as a driver anytime it detects a faster route around an impediment. Still, you don’t have that privilege because you aren’t the one driving on public transportation. You will need to utilize Google Maps. On the other hand, Google Maps is brimming with data on public transportation. To begin with, it comes with complete schedules and maps for transportation services worldwide and can seamlessly incorporate these into its directions.  Also, it provides real-time notifications on any delays and other problems you could encounter while traveling, allowing you to be at least prepared for concerns. ### Discovery Features Waze is primarily a navigation tool but includes surprisingly good discovery capabilities comparable to those in Google Maps. Both applications let you locate significant establishments and landmarks in your neighborhood with many comparable features. They have a search bar and specific buttons that prevent most of the necessary processes and clarify what each one does.  You have the resources to discover them and get there swiftly, whether looking for a petrol station or a grocery store. Yet Google Maps is all about providing you with more, as appears to be the case frequently.  There are more specialized buttons on it. Generally, the list of [discovery buttons on Google Maps](https://venturebeat.com/mobile/new-explore-button-on-google-maps-instantly-localizes-user-experience/#:~:text=Now%2C%20whenever%20you%20want%20to,and%20moment%20throughout%20your%20day.) contains something if you require a sports goods store or an electronics store. Waze, though, keeps things straightforward. ### Real-Time Data  Waze and Google Maps are heavily data-centric, but Waze takes it to the next level. Waze’s entire revenue stream is predicated on user-generated data. While a good chunk of the data is amassed automatically just by driving around with the app open, users can also report roadblocks, hazards, or impediments hindering traffic flow. This data is then analyzed to offer drivers the most optimized routes possible, and it’s also used to drive Waze’s algorithms and improve its services and maps. While Google Maps also uses data to predict traffic patterns, its approach is grounded in a significantly larger database. By tapping into historical data and real-time data from traffic sensors and Google Maps users, it can anticipate road conditions at any given point of the day.  Although there are some overlaps between the two apps, Google Maps has far more data to draw upon than Waze. ### Design and Interface Our long-standing reliance on Google Maps has been unwavering until we discovered Waze – an exhilarating navigation app that leaves us in disbelief that navigation can be this exciting. The vibrant color palettes, playful user interface, intuitive icons, and overall linguistic flair are much-needed fresh air.  We can’t help but appreciate it more because we have stuck to a single app for years, making the novelty of Waze all the more pronounced. Not only is the [Waze interface](https://wazeopedia.waze.com/wiki/USA/Map_Editor_Interface_and_Controls) aesthetically pleasing, but it also boasts seamless functionality. All features are readily accessible, and we had no trouble navigating the app. When an app makes a lasting impression on you after the first use, you know the designers have outdone themselves.  Waze’s directions and navigation options display excellent contrast, providing better visibility. The navigation screen lacks extra buttons, allowing for a simplified and clutter-free experience.  An additional perk is the app’s automatic switch to dark mode when driving through darker environments such as tunnels or underpasses. ### Additional Features   We never want to convert completely to Waze since Street View on Google Maps is a big drawback. This constantly makes Google Maps stand out because Waze does not offer this feature. Besides, as previously discussed, Google Maps provides many features that transform it into a complete local guide application. Waze, however, provides a lot of entertaining features. While Waze ups the ante with a lot more entertaining alternatives for the same, Google Maps still provides symbols for your automobile on the map. ## Which Navigation App Should You Pick? Waze is the navigation software to use if you want one that focuses on getting you from A to B as quickly as possible. Choose Google Maps if you want a more detailed map display with more features. There is no obvious victor here because both Google Maps and Waze provide top-notch service. Using two is a smart move.  If you drive for [Uber](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-uber-make-money/) or Lyft, for example, you may use Google Maps to look up the busiest areas and schedule your pickup locations. Afterward, you may use Waze to move your passenger from point A to point B as quickly as possible.  You can get both applications for free, so installing and combining the two will provide you with the best driving experience. Like this topic? Check out these articles for more similar content! - [The Ultimate Showdown: WhatsApp Vs. Telegram – Which Reigns Supreme?](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsapp-vs-telegram/) - [Jasper vs. ChatGPT: The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/) - [Zoom Vs. Google Meet: Which Is Better?](https://alejandrorioja.com/zoom-vs-google-meet-which-is-better/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top Market Research Tools To Uncover Actionable Insights Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-market-research-tools-to-uncover-actionable-insights/ Published: 2023-05-12 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line The digital age continues to revolutionize how businesses perform in their highly competitive markets. Arming yourself with the best market research tools is a solid way not to get left behind the rivalry. Tech solutions are popping up everywhere, and integrating the right tool into your strategy ensures you do things correctly. Market analysis tools allow a more intelligent and data-driven approach to business insights, market forecasts, decision-making, and dependable actions. Regardless of any business model, market research tools will remain necessary to survive the ever-hardening business dynamics of our time. Have you ever wondered what it takes for businesses to stay afloat in the highly digitized market? Everyone seems fascinated by the breakneck development in technology, especially with how it pushes entrepreneurs like myself to reach greater heights than ever. [Digital technology](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2022/12/29/why-technology-can-help-drive-your-business/?sh=27cf4b5040e4) brings the future nearer and ever competitive for every business today. Process automation, for instance, makes everything work through our fingertips while guaranteeing each business aspect is more intelligent and reliable. Many of my blogs discuss getting [the best out of the latest technologies](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-the-best-out-of-chatgpt-prompts/). This time, I’ll let you in on some interesting table talk about the best market research tools to get your hands on. Market research is a cornerstone for every business. It uncovers insights that can strategically direct the path and decision-making of executives and entrepreneurs. A reliable market research tool needs to run to develop better product design, elevate user experience, and implement market techniques that convert leads to sales. Please tune in to this blog as I round up the best market research tools in 2023. ## What is Market Research?  As an entrepreneur aiming to break through the tight competition, it is critical that you gain a proper analysis of your market to employ strategic decisions and action plans. This is where a good market research tool can be best used. Market research centers on gathering data to assess business conditions and factors relevant to a product or service’s potential sale. This marketing practice intends to uncover industry trends and patterns, shifting consumer needs and preferences, and even legislative developments to maintain optimal business performance.  With market research tools, people understand current market dynamics and forecast potential changes– making everyone adept at handling the challenges and advantages they encounter.  ## 5 Benefits Of Market Research Looking back at the [history](https://www.keltonglobal.com/perspectives/a-brief-history-of-market-research/) of market research will let us realize exactly how important this practice is in running a successful business. From the 1900s quantitative questionnaire era until today’s digital generation, market research has been the pillar of enduring businesses, no matter the model. Here are five benefits of market research to elaborate on its importance and advantages. ### 1\. Make Informed Decisions Market research is all about gathering and understanding your market data. You can harness strategic and informed decisions with the right research tool since you understand your business standing properly. Reliable market findings are what make up reasonable business decisions. For example, you cannot just rely on your feelings in launching a new product or service; there must be data backing up their profitability and potential. If there is any assurance, your market findings always allow you to craft and execute knowledgeable decisions. ### 2\. Identify Opportunities Better Gauging your market’s pulse provides insights into existing or emerging [opportunities for growth](https://alejandrorioja.com/growth-marketing-strategies-guide/). Market research empowers companies to determine new customer behaviors and forecast trends. With far-reaching market studies, businesses can determine new areas to venture into. New ventures may come in the form of business partnerships, improved or new products, and other innovations that will help companies reach newer and better markets. ### 3\. Develop and Maintain a Customer-Centric Approach Market research offers a more vivid picture of your customer base. Prioritizing your customers’ needs and wants is a profit-driving practice. Customer-centric companies protect their profitability by ensuring the best customer experience in their market. Most customers always look for businesses that provide them with the products and services they need and guarantee a top-notch buying experience. Market research lets you understand your customers’ preferences and behavior, allowing you to appeal effectively to their hook points and vulnerabilities. In this process, you’ll be able to [retain your customers](https://alejandrorioja.com/why-customer-retention-matters-and-how-to-calculate-it/) and prevent your competitors from grabbing them. ### 4\. Reduce Risks Risks are constant in businesses. While you cannot change such a fact, you can still avert or mitigate how these risks affect your ventures. Conducting market research allows you to determine the disadvantages and weak points in the market. The data-driven reports from digital research tools let you see possible business risks from a mile away. With a clearer risk lens in place, you’ll have every opportunity to avoid various business pitfalls. ### 5\. Connect With Your Market More Effectively What comes next with a better understanding of your customer base? You can then reach them more effectively. Bridging gaps to reach your customers is another perk market research offers. When you understand your customers’ desires, you can tailor-fit your marketing strategy to their preferences and behaviors.  You don’t have to downgrade to a trial-and-error strategy since you already know how your market behaves. ## 9 Best Market Research Tools in 2023 Technology develops at a dizzying pace for a reason. And it’s because technology serves its purpose well. In the digital age, business operations are almost fully automated. Integrating software solutions and AI technologies make business dealings more convenient, error-free, and smarter. These tech solutions are also in full service to market research today. Here are the nine best market research tools to propel your business’ success in 2023. ### 1\. Google Trends Introduced in 2006 to track the popularity of Google search topics, Google Trends is one of the leading free market research tools today. This research tool can process over 80 Billion searches daily, making it the biggest data source in history. Google Trends is commonly used to track a term’s popularity and relevance over a period and location.  A few of the best things about this tool are its visual appeal, convenient usage, and the largest amount of data it searches, making it highly reliable. ### 2\. Reddit And who would forget about this one? Reddit has become so popular that it has become a common front page to our usual internet searches. This completely free market research tool records [nearly 60 Million](https://www.redditinc.com/) active users daily across more than 200 countries. With this remarkable number of users, Reddit has developed an online community called subreddits, where common topics are discussed. Reddit offers reliable results as it holds authentic conversations and is a good way of gauging how audiences think about what brand. You must look out, though, as these honest conversations can sometimes become heated. ### 3\. Facebook Page Insights Marketing through the social media giant Facebook is also in full bloom. Rightfully so, as it’s the biggest social media platform with monthly active users reaching [2.9 Billion globally](https://datareportal.com/essential-facebook-stats#:~:text=Number%20of%20Facebook%20users%20in,\)%3A%202.963%20billion%20\(January%202023\)&text=Number%20of%20people%20who%20use,\)%3A%202.000%20billion%20\(January%202023\)&text=Share%20of%20Facebook's%20monthly%20active,%3A%2067%25%20\(January%202023\)).  As is, Facebook is the best social marketing platform. You can monitor your page health, audience interaction, and post reach through Meta’s Page Insights. On top of that, you’ll have access to insightful courses that will teach you to make the best out of the platform’s market analysis features. You’ll also get a step-by-step guide to boost your audience reach and page performance. ### 4\. Quora Another amazing free market research tool is Quora. This site will give you a glimpse into people’s thoughts and questions, which reflect their interests. This free tool is similar to Reddit, featuring relevant and engaging conversations among its users. When you have questions, try posting them in Quora; other users with relevant credentials will answer them. When you’re in the content creation business, popular questions and topics discussed in the platform will give you ideas on what to write and produce. This highly popular platform allows you to improve traffic to your website by engaging popular questions. ### 5\. Survey Monkey A survey questionnaire is one of the oldest forms of market research tool in the business and a practical choice since it access direct response from your audience. With Survey Monkey, you’ll have over 200 customizable templates for easy creation, sending out, and analyzing market surveys. This platform allows you to embed your survey into web pages and link via email, social media, and other online vessels. There’s a reason Survey Monkey is one of the most widely used survey tools today, with over 20 Million questions answered daily. ### 6\. QuestionPro QuestionPro positions itself as one of the most favored premium market research tools. This platform is highly versatile when creating any form of survey you can think of. One of my favorite features about this tool is its survey logic which alters the survey format relative to the responses. This just feels so top-notch and well-rounded. This platform can also send surveys quickly and through various means. On top of all these, they also have 24/7 LiveChat support which is a huge win. ### 7\. Buzzsumo Buzzsumo analyzes over 8 Billion articles and a staggering 300 Trillion social engagements and lets you see the most relevant content. With this powerful and reliable market tool, you can put up a better content marketing strategy and increase your content rank. You can bank on Buzzsumo’s Content Analyzer for accurate monitoring of social share numbers and engagement. Harnessing this tool allows you to visualize the market competition well and ensure you are ahead of your competitors. ### 8\. Statista Statista is a pillar regarding statistics (as the name suggests), visual data, and market reports. It is an established platform that is the default go-to for reliable and vast market statistics references. This data-driven platform lets you visualize everything through simplified graphs and charts. Statista’s data constantly updates, so you’ll get accurate and time-sensitive resources. ### 9\. Qualtrics What beats a platform that does it all? Qualtrics is your jack-of-all-trade as it does everything from crafting smart surveys to analyzing data and segmenting markets. Qualtrics makes for great convenience, too. It runs tests and visualization of data from your survey response or uploaded data set, and it will even find the target respondents and make them fill out your surveys. While you may encounter some real learning curves using this platform, Qualtrics remains your premium all-in-one market companion. ## Choosing The Best Tool For Your Business The digital age is a tight spot for market competition, but it is also a generous space for tech solutions that make processes convenient, simplified, and insightful. Equipping yourself with the right tools and strategy must be a priority to realize your business dreams. Tools with functions well-suited to your business needs and market requirements are what you should be after.  If you like reading this guide, I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading these articles as well: - [How Prompt Engineering Can Revolutionize Your Product Design](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-prompt-engineering-can-revolutionize-your-product-design/) - [Exploring The Top 10 Amazon Competitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/exploring-the-top-10-amazon-competitors/) - [The Power of ChatGPT: From Customer Service to Lead Generation](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## The Click Fraud Battle: How To Protect Your PPC Ad Spend Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/the-click-fraud-battle-how-to-protect-your-ppc-ad-spend/ Published: 2023-05-03 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Click fraud is when an advertiser fraudulently clicks on PPC advertising to use up all of their marketing budgets. This could happen when other people make unintentional clicks on paid search advertisements, a programmed code, or a computer software appearing as a real interested user.  Such click frauds can harm your campaigns and prevent you from getting the intended results, so it is essential to identify and prevent them. You may tweak some of your business practices or add a click fraud detection service to prevent them. However, it’s important to note that click frauds don’t go away. The only thing you can do is to minimize their impact on your business.  Do you wonder why your prospect level is not progressing after all the money you’ve spent on marketing, specifically PPC Ads? You’ll be surprised that bots are the cause of why your prospects level is not increasing after all the marketing and PPC Ads you’ve paid to.  Bots waste your advertising budget by clicking over and over again on your Google and Facebook ads. But why does there are bots that ruin your marketing?  That’s what we’re going to talk about in this blog. We’ll tackle everything about this click fraud and how you can prevent this from affecting your PPC Ads campaigns. Keep reading to learn more! ## What is a Click Fraud? When using PPC Ads in your marketing, you’ll pay every time someone clicks your advertisement. If you’re performing your job correctly, you ought to anticipate plenty of those clicks to result in a purchase.  You can make three transactions for every ten clicks you receive. But what if users start clicking your ads without the intention of buying anything or using your website? Click fraud, as it’s called, may cause issues for advertising. With this, paying for clicks that aren’t real if users or bots falsely click on your adverts could happen.  This may consume your daily advertising budget, preventing your message from reaching its intended audience.  ## Who’s Behind Click Fraud? With the intense competition in the market, it’s not surprising to know who’s behind your marketing downfall.  ### 1\. Competitors Click Fraud Competitors aim to ruin ad tech marketing initiatives and inflict as much financial loss as possible. In each case, the competitor’s click fraud primary objective is to cause harm rather than drain the campaign’s funds. ### 2\. Publishers Click Fraud Aside from your competitors, publishers gain directly from fraudulent clicks that cause harm to your business. A portion of the money you pay to Google for every click you use to display advertisements goes to the publisher. The publisher earns more money when more people click on their adverts. ## Types of Click Fraud There are two main types of click fraud:  ### 1\. Manual Click Fraud The fraud is easily done manually. To inflate performance metrics and increase their income share, the fraudulent party will typically employ real people to make clicks on specific advertisements. It can have some effects but isn’t nearly as effective as an automated process. An example of manual click fraud is clicked farms, where numerous individuals click on advertisements continuously.  Conversely, this kind of click fraud might also have good intentions because many publishers ask users to “support their site by clicking on advertisements.” However, these clicks must be ignored because they are useless for a campaign’s objectives. ### 2\. Automated Click Fraud Automatic click fraud includes the development and upkeep of networks of bots intended to carry out specific workflows that cause clicks to be recorded by computer systems as valid events.  ## How to Identify Click Fraud? Many click fraud detection programs use AI and other potent techniques to identify artificial or bot traffic using heuristics and pattern recognition. Complex algorithms and AI are utilized to build mechanical detection systems that detect and eliminate invalid clicks before marketers are billed.  AI can help you save time and money by identifying the apparent indications of click fraud and helps in the automatic removal of fraudulent clicks. ## How to Determine If Your Website Is Affected by Click Fraud? Being able to evaluate data is crucial to the success of PPC advertisements. To determine if you have encountered ad fraud, you need to look at the events when people click on your advertisement and where the clicks come from.  To do this, gather the following: - IP addresses - Click time stamps - Action time stamps - User-agent Use this information to spot many clicks that may originate from the same individual but never result in a response. If you notice many clicks coming from the same IP address without a response or time stamp, make a serious move to stop click fraud.  If you have any suspicions, report a concern to Google so they can further investigate. The data always has the answers. Therefore, if you have PPC experience and notice something is wrong with your statistics, it is always beneficial to look further. ## Why Does Preventing Click Fraud Important? Choose PPC Advertisements among any marketing even though you have many advertising options because of the guaranteed return on investment it provides. However, you won’t get a return on your investment if you’re the target of click fraud. What’s worse is that your rivals are probably profiting from the click fraud, irrespective of whether it was their idea to do it. That’s why dealing with click fraud beforehand is important to save your business from financial downfall. ## 8 Ways to Prevent Click Fraud Click fraud might be tough to detect. Nonetheless, there are certain preventative measures you can take. Although there is no perfect method to stop click fraud, you can lessen its effects if you know it. Here are five actions you may take to reduce click fraud’s negative effects on your PPC ads. ### 1\. Configure IP Exclusions in Google Ads Restrict specific IP addresses from Google Ads if you’ve reviewed your statistics and determined they are fraudulently clicking your ads. Go to your Ad’s account settings tab and select IP exclusions to do this. This could help you identify click fraud on your advertisements, but since some of these schemes are highly clever, it’s not a guaranteed approach. ### 2\. Consider Your Display Ad Running Methods Display advertising is more prone to click fraud. This makes sense because the additional part about publisher click fraud isn’t present in search advertisements. However, choose how your display advertising is shown by concentrating on retargeting. Retargeting ads are only shown to persons who have visited your website in the past. This implies that the publisher will not be authorized to view your adverts on their website or continue clicking them.  At the same time, it makes it harder for fraudulent people to click on your advertisements unintentionally. ### 3\. Concentrate on Ad Targeting In some cases, a minor change to your targeting is all that is necessary to eliminate fraudulent clicks. Exclude those areas and their related languages if you believe click fraud originates from a certain geographic area.  A competitor’s postal code, city, etc., can be excluded if you think they are engaging in click fraud. Remember to avoid reducing good traffic in the process. Set these exclusions only if you think most clicks produced in these locations are false. ### 4\. Install a Click Fraud Protection Software Various companies offer several click fraud protection services. These services can keep an eye on your ads and prevent false clicks. Here are some click fraud services that you can use:  - ClickCease - PPC Shield - AppsFlyer - Singular - ClickGUARD Save money using these solutions, typically costing about $50 monthly for a basic subscription. Depending on the size of your PPC ads and whether you suspect click fraud, choose to invest in this type of security.  ### 5\. Use Honeypots Ad servers use unique adverts disguised as bluffs that look like human users. If a bot encounters them and intervenes, the honeypot remains with it and carries out its mission, exposing the bot and blocking its IP address. ### 6\. Constant Metric Audits Metrics are challenging. It is necessary to continually verify metric accuracy while comparing its findings with multiple sources to represent the real state of things. Never hesitate to make a second check. When things are viewed in their proper context, it is simpler to spot where problems begin and take action before permanent damage is done. Following is a list of typical suspicious activity. These patterns are unmistakable indicators that something is wrong: - An advertising campaign experiences abnormally high click-through rates. - Compared to other parts of the website, the traffic rates of sites with PPC ads are considerably greater. - Activity surges and unusual traffic peaks occur irregularly for the particular location. ### 7\. Ad Verification Ad verification is one of the most important strategies for preventing ad fraud, particularly click fraud. It functions as a sort of double secure instrument. In essence, it aids in locating gaps in your defense against ad fraud. Many ad verification vendors offer insights into performance with various indicators, including fraudulent traffic and viewability.  These tools can help you block low-quality publishers, identify suspicious sites, and conduct a full campaign audit that may assist in the optimization of campaigns. ### 8\. Switch to Social Media Ads Social media adverts are far less keyword-based than paid search engine advertisements. As a result, people will have much more difficulty entering a term to find your advertisement. Because social media platforms like Facebook have access to so much user data, it is feasible to target your audience accurately. This lessens the potential of click fraud and makes it possible for you to improve the efficiency of your PPC ads. Social media sites do not have third-party operators like display ad networks do. Therefore, publisher clicks fraud is reduced, slightly increasing the safety of your advertisements. ## Protect Your PPC Ads From Click Frauds! Click fraud is just one of the more complex types of ad fraud. It takes advantage of people and attempts to drive serious losses in advertising campaigns. Though click fraud cannot fade away, that doesn’t mean you should be scared of it. Instead, find a way to prevent or reduce its effects on your marketing.  Did you like this article? If you want to learn more about preventing click frauds that could contribute greatly to your brand’s awareness, you can do so by reading my previous blogs below. - [Paid Marketing For B2B: A 2023 Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/paid-marketing-for-b2b-a-2023-guide/) - [Growth Marketing Strategies Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/growth-marketing-strategies-guide/) - [6 Best Email Marketing Services for Small Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/6-best-email-marketing-services-for-small-business/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## The Power Of Top Of Mind Awareness (TOMA) In Brand Recognition Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-top-of-mind-awareness-toma/ Published: 2023-04-20 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) describes a sort of brand awareness where a specific brand immediately comes to mind when a client thinks about a particular market or specialty. The first brand that comes to mind when a person considers a category is the most prominent brand in that person’s mind. It means that that brand has achieved the top of mind awareness (TOMA). Generally, top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) is a measurable metric. It is described as the percentage of interviewees who, without being asked, mention a particular brand or product first when provided with all the ads they recollect seeing in a particular product category. What brand comes to your mind whenever you think of shoes? Whatever that brand is, they’re lucky! It means they achieve what you call “Top of Mind Awareness,” which we will tackle in this blog today.  Whether you want to raise your business brand awareness or simply want to know more about Top of Mind Awareness, this blog is for you! We’ll tackle everything about this mind-blowing topic, so you’ll know how you can apply this to boost your business growth. Keep reading!  ## What is Top of Mind Awareness (TOMA)? Top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) is vital to market analysis. It measures how highly regarded a brand is in consumers’ minds. But how does that work?  The top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) is the condition in which a brand first and foremost comes to mind when customers consider a specific market, item, or sector.  For example, you asked me what brand comes to mind whenever I think of shoes, and I answered, “Nike.” In that case, Nike has achieved the top of mind awareness since it’s the first brand that comes to my mind.  Top-of-mind awareness indicates that your brand or business is most well-liked within a certain industry. However, not all consumers will associate a particular brand with it. It’s important to note that consumers sometimes choose the company or product they hate or that has lately been the subject of controversy as their initial thought. Therefore, there may be bad connotations with TOMA.  But, when you think of it on different sides, brands typically benefit greatly from being “top of mind.” ## Top of Mind Awareness (TOMA) Importance Why does top-of-mind awareness important anyway? Being at the top of the mind is indeed special, but when it comes to a brand, it’s a big deal.  The ultimate goal of [brand recognition](https://www.techtarget.com/searchcustomerexperience/definition/brand-recognition#:~:text=Brand%20recognition%20is%20the%20extent,song%20associated%20with%20a%20brand.) and brand building is top-of-mind awareness (TOMA). You can refer to someone as your customer when you are the first brand they consider when purchasing a new product. Therefore, top-of-mind awareness may be viewed as a type of cyclical win. People will think of you first, which increases the likelihood that they will buy your items and think of you first the next time, and so on. Awareness at the forefront of one’s consciousness is crucial for several reasons, notably the following: 1. You’ll gradually edge out the competitors 2. People will trust you 3. You’ll attract loyal customers ## Eight Benefits of Top of Mind Awareness (TOMA) ### 1\. Effective Marketing Of course, when people are more familiar with your brand, your marketing and advertising efforts automatically become more persuasive. Since they know your brand, they will listen to your advertising. It keeps people informed, urging them to become interested, and the more interest, the more sales.  ### 2\. Brand Awareness People are more likely to be pulled to a brand to spend money on the more they know it. Generally, when people spend money on your brand, product, or service, it becomes a trend, attracting much more customers.  ### 3\. Easy Industry Expansion A company’s expansion in the same industry and consumer attraction become more manageable for one having industry roots. For instance, Nike can introduce a new line of sportswear more easily because it already has a large consumer base eager to test it out. ### 4\. Competitive Advantage With increased visibility and consumer recognition, top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) gives brands an advantage over other companies in their sector. Profits could rise as a result of this, as well as market share. ### 5\. High Brand Equity The worth of a brand in the market is referred to as brand equity. Brands with high top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) have stronger brand equity, which boosts consumer loyalty and fosters better interactions with consumers. ### 6\. Increased Revenue Having the first brand that comes to consumers’ minds when they think of a product and being the first choice in everything contributes to increasing sales. Of course, the more people buy your product or service, the more revenue you have.  ### 7\. Easy Marketing and PR If you are well-known worldwide, your marketing staff won’t need to spend as much time describing who you are and what you do. That implies you can be more imaginative, leading to more memorable campaigns. With that, you can cut back on marketing and advertising expenses or, at the very least, diversify into markets and strategies different from those used by your rivals. Similarly, if you’re already well-known, your PR campaigns could attract a more receptive media audience because publications will be more eager to cover your news. ### 8\. Customer Retention When your brand is at the top of the minds of consumers, they will be more likely to choose your brand when they need similar products, boosting [customer retention](https://alejandrorioja.com/why-customer-retention-matters-and-how-to-calculate-it/). ## Metrics Used to Measure the Top of Mind Awareness (TOMA)  Typically, market research surveys are used to measure the top of mind awareness. Yet, numerous metrics are available from SEO tools, media monitoring software, and google analytics.  ### Brand Recall Brand recall is the term used to describe how easily and quickly a consumer can recall the brand when given a choice. Customers are typically interviewed or surveyed to determine how well-informed they are about various brands available on the market. Brand recall is a combination of aided and unaided recall.  **1\. Aided Recall** – In aided recall, the interviewer asks what brand the consumer is familiar with while providing a cue (such as a logo, slogan, mark, or name list). **2\. Unaided Recall** – In the unaided recall, the interviewer doesn’t direct the customer to mention the brand. Instead, they ask questions about a particular niche to determine which brand automatically comes to mind when the customer is asked about it. The percentage to which your brand is recognized first is your top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) score. If your company is mentioned, you can enquire more and find out what others remember about it. It could identify characteristics, strategies, or events likely to raise awareness.  If your brand is not mentioned, you will have to put in considerably more effort to raise your brand’s top-of-mind awareness (TOMA).  ### Social Listening Social listening mostly determines how many people mention a specific brand on social platforms. It examines the proportion of time a brand spends in [social media interactions](https://www.jcsocialmedia.com/social-media-interaction/#:~:text=Social%20media%20interaction%20involves%20businesses,on%20one%20or%20more%20factors\).) or mentions related to a given category, item, or industry. ### Net Promotor Score Net Promoter Score is a benchmarking metric that measures consumer satisfaction and brand experience. Businesses conduct a one-question survey with their customers to determine whether they would recommend the company, its products, or its services to their friends, relatives, or acquaintances. ### Share of Search Share of search is a metric comparing a brand’s visibility in local searches to its competing firms. Knowing how many consumers evaluate a brand before others is a powerful statistic. ### Other Metrics - Branded search volume  - Social media reach  - Paid media reach - Social media followers - Direct traffic  - Brand mentions ## Factors Affecting Top of Mind Awareness (TOMA) It’s quite intriguing to think why a customer would choose one name over any other on the market. Indeed, there must be some elements that go into this impact. Understanding these factors better may help businesses find ways to raise their brand awareness and perhaps even attain top-of-mind awareness. Here are some of the factors that impact the top of mind awareness (TOMA).  ### 1\. Social Media Presence The top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) score of your business can be affected by social media presence. You are more likely to recall a brand name if it frequently appears on your newsfeed.  A consistent presence on social media can work great for your brand awareness efforts, given how frequently people use social media. Building a solid connection with consumers through social media is essential since it helps foster greater brand loyalty. Aside from that, many businesses nowadays also offer customer service on social media, enabling them to communicate with their customers regularly. This successfully affects one’s awareness. ### 2\. Market Penetration Market penetration is the percentage of a brand’s customers in the industry. It’s widely accepted that businesses with the biggest market shares also have the highest levels of top-of-mind awareness (TOMA). These are businesses with a sizable customer base that have surpassed their rivals. They also have loyal consumers along with an established brand name. Since consumers have generally had more interaction with these brands, they are likely to come up first in a conversation about the relevant industry. ### 3\. Advertising Advertising’s main objective is to make an impression. A strong advertisement can help your brand stick in your customers’ minds. It is a great method for spreading brand awareness and getting your product in front of more people. ### 4\. Discoverability In discoverability, marketing teams make it simple for buyers to find their brand or product. It depends on how simple it is for a customer to find you.  When consumers run into issues, they typically search on Google. You are more discoverable if your website’s brand appears in the search results list. As a result, you no longer have to approach clients; they can now find you. Customers are more likely to remember your brand if they use your product or content frequently or if they refer to it frequently. ### 5\. Physical Presence Another technique to enhance top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) is through physical impression. Brands that are easily accessible are more likely to stick in your memory. Generally, people are more conscious of products they have directly interacted with. So, having a physical presence can provide your product an edge over competitors.  ## How to Increase the Top of Mind Awareness (TOMA)? Brands may increase and keep their presence in consumers’ minds in various ways. Contrary to common assumptions, you don’t need to be a unique brand to get your clients’ attention.  You can do it by constantly putting money into a few different initiatives. Here’s how: ### 1\. Make Your Brand Visible You can use various methods to increase your clients’ visibility. Generally, you can achieve this with content marketing, SEO, and [social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) marketing by producing relevant and beneficial content. You can also make your brand visible by using the following: 1. Investing in SEO 2. Creating content for your customer’s benefit 3. Increasing social media presence ### 2\. Ensure an Exceptional Customer Experience People are more likely to remember your brand with a positive experience. The best part is that there are countless methods to produce amazing experiences. Some stores satisfy customers with their extremely lenient return policy. On the other hand, some impress clients with redeemable gifts through their online shop. Offering everything from industry-leading technical support to first-rate customer service could help you stand out. If you take the right steps, customers might even promote your business. ### 3\. Diversify Your Ad Spend One aspect that affects top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) is advertising. In increasing conversions, your digital advertisement should focus on the consumer.  Yet for your advertisements to be effective, they must also persuade those not already interested in your brand to think of it. ## Apply TOMA to Your Business!  There can be no doubt about the value of the top of mind awareness (TOMA). Therefore, despite being the market leader, you still need a brand awareness strategy to stay at the top of consumers’ minds. As listed above, there are many ways to increase the top-of-mind awareness (TOMA) of your brand, so you just have to be careful in picking one. Consider every factor to discover what’s best for your business.  Did you like this article? If you did, and you’re interested in learning more about the top of mind awareness (TOMA) or anything that could boost your business brand awareness. You can do so by reading my previous blogs below. - [What is Brand Equity and How Do You Build It?](https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/) - [Instagram Story Highlight: How To Use It For Brand Account?](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-story-highlight-how-to-use-it-for-brand-account/) - [How Brands Use TikTok Stitch And Duet For Marketing?](https://alejandrorioja.com/tiktok-stitch-and-duet-for-marketing/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The fundamentals in this post still hold — Ansoff, BCG, integrated marketing, land-and-expand, NYOP, TOMA frameworks are durable. What changed since the original publication is **how the implementation surface looks in 2026**: - The **distribution channels** assumed in 2020-era marketing posts (organic Facebook reach, free Twitter virality, paid Instagram CPMs under $10) are gone or transformed. Re-cost any tactical recommendation against today's CPMs. - **AI Overviews** ate the top of the SEO funnel — TOFU content strategy from the 2022 era now needs a GEO layer (see the [SEO updated note](#updated-for-may-2026)). - **Land-and-expand** as a motion is healthier than ever in B2B SaaS; PLG → enterprise progression is the default path for almost any 2026 startup. - **Integrated marketing communication** in 2026 means the *brand voice* shows up the same across paid, organic, AI-cited, podcast guesting, and the newsletter — because models like GPT-5 and Claude 4.7 are increasingly summarizing the *brand*, not just individual pages. If you're using this framework for a 2026 plan, the strategic skeleton is right; only the channel-mix data points need a fresh source. --- ## Get the Best Out of ChatGPT Prompts: What To Ask for Personalized Assistance? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/get-the-best-out-of-chatgpt-prompts/ Published: 2023-04-13 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: ChatGPT is part of the revolutionary AI chatbot technology taking the world by storm. These chatbots are designed to engage in a “human-like” form, holding conversations and answering all sorts of questions. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line ChatGPT is part of the revolutionary AI chatbot technology taking the world by storm. These chatbots are designed to engage in a “human-like” form, holding conversations and answering all sorts of questions.  The software is designed to give relevant information when the right prompts are provided. Learning how to present your queries is key to getting efficient, personalized assistance.  ChatGPT is an AI-driven chatbot designed to make researching and accessing information easier. It allows users to ask questions directly and, using artificial intelligence (AI), tries to answer those queries as humanely as possible. However, learning [how to interact with ChatGPT](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-jasper-ai-is-changing-the-way-we-interact-with-technology/) is key to getting the best out of this tool. By learning the right prompts to ask and how to phrase them, you’ll be able to get answers to your questions easier. But what’s the right way to interact? Read on to find out!  ## 1\. Provide Context in Your Prompts The more context you provide in your prompt, the better ChatGPT can answer it. It’s like conversing with someone who’s been there before—they know what to say and how to respond. Background information ensures relevant, useful, and accurate answers. If you’re asking, “How do I fix my microwave?” give examples of what’s wrong with it: Is it a lighting issue? Is it not warming food? Or does it not turn on at all?  The more particular you are, the more relevant the response you’ll get will be. ChatGPT can then narrow down its responses to address your query specifically. ## 2\. Ask Specific Questions Asking specific questions is key to constructive conversation and getting the most out of ChatGPT.  When looking for a dog with specific attributes (like size or coat type), it’s best to ask for that information in a way that is easy for someone else to understand. For example: “I’m interested in finding an English Bulldog puppy.”  If this were just done as “I’m looking for a dog,” then the AI wouldn’t know what kind of dog or breed you were talking about! That way, you won’t have to read through heaps of unnecessary, generic information that isn’t helpful to your search. ## 3\. Assign a Designated Identity/Persona You might be tempted to give bullet point information when talking to an AI, but this can lead to confusion and frustration if your point isn’t immediately understood. Most people would be more likely to include more specific, conversational details when talking with another person.  Also, with people, you might give more clarification or explanation that provides a bigger picture. A useful tip I learned is to talk to Al as if you’re talking to another person, not as if you’re coding or programming.  That means treating your interactions with AI as role-playing, and you can go as far as giving it a name. Talking to “Lexie” will most likely make you include general information like you would if you asked a friend a question instead of vague, meaningless questions. ## 4\. Rephrase and Make Changes Along The Interaction Use your chosen, specific tone to achieve the desired results. However, if your initial prompt doesn’t get you what you want, try changing the words around.  If you must, try researching adjectives for your topic to help you find alternative ways to phrase your query. For example, if “Best stores for expecting mothers” doesn’t give you the desired results, try changing it to “Where to buy clothes for pregnant women.” ## 5\. Use Natural Language Choose words that are as natural as possible when interacting with AI. ChatGPT is designed to understand human speech and respond accordingly. That means the best way for you to get assistance from the system is by using natural language, which means making it easier for ChatGPT to understand you better. Use words that are easy for people with different levels of education, experience, and backgrounds to recognize. If you’re researching something technical, you might be tempted to adopt a lot of industry-related jargon.  However, this can be limiting and even confusing for the AI. Instead, use the language you’d use to explain the same thing or concept to a high school student. ## 6\. Ask for Evidence / Sources A good way to ensure you receive accurate information is to ask for evidence or sources to back up the response generated. That way, you’ll know the info you’re getting is verified and reliable. Ask if any citations can be provided as proof of anything in the response (e.g., books/articles). This is a great opportunity to ask if they’ve done their research before typing up answers on your behalf!  You can also ask if there’s any authoritative website (like Forbes) or a well-known site that’s written an article about something similar to back up the info.  If it cannot provide direct citations or supporting evidence, you might need to start your search again to get true information. ## 7\. Experiment One of the most relevant things to remember when using ChatGPT is that it’s a tool. It’s not magic. AI is as fallible as any human being, so it’s important to experiment with your question and prompt combinations to find the right answer.  You probably won’t get it right the first time, so experiment with different prompts. Try using different word limits and ways of phrasing your prompt until you find the right response for your search.  Be patient with the AI; it’s still new, and learn to be more accurate. So providing a clear guide can help it answer your prompts better.  ## 8\. Keep Your Sentences Simple When you’re asking questions, keep your sentences simple. This cannot be easy if you are a little more technical or have much information to provide. The AI might not be able to decipher complex sentences, and it will be unable to provide answers that fit your inquiry. Instead of using complicated language or too many words simultaneously, try breaking down the information into smaller pieces and reusing them throughout your chat session. For example, instead of overwhelming the AI with multiple instructions, break down the inquiries into succeeding questions as follows: - “List the various types of hoovers for home use.” - “What should I expect from each type?” - “What do they offer/ Features of different types?” ## 9\. Ask for Tabulated Answers (Output Style) You can specify the kind of output you want and ask for it to be presented in a table form. This makes it easier to understand the information, keeping the responses short and leaving no room for confusion or misunderstanding.  That way, you won’t have to read through multiple paragraphs if all you need is included in the tabulated output.  An example might be: “Compare our current and competitors’ prices.” Tabulated answers are also good for questions that require listing, such as: “What are the benefits of this product over similar products?”  The response can be formulated in table form, making it easier to digest than lengthier paragraphs. ## 10\. Adjust the Word Limit for the Responses One of the best ways to get personalized assistance with ChatGPT is by [adjusting your word](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/tjmccue/2023/01/26/chatgpt-hack-for-summarizing-your-work/amp/) limit. When asking any question, you must monitor the number of words generated for the response.  If you want specific instructions on completing a task like “How do I set up a bank account” and want something simple, adjust your word limit accordingly. However, if more complex questions require more information, like researching historical events, consider increasing the number of words. This ensures that all the necessary data will be included in the response!  This makes sense because sometimes you may want an easy-to-follow guide on how to do something. Depending on the complexity of the task, you should decide how elaborative you want the response to be. ## 11\. Think About the Final Product When you have a clear picture of the information you want to gather, you’ll have a higher chance of engaging in a constructive conversation with ChatGPT. Knowing what you want will also help you frame your questions better, making it easier for ChatGPT to understand what info you’re looking for.  Keeping the target audience in mind can also help ChatGPT generate age-appropriate content. For example, if your audience is middle school kids, their prompts will differ from those targeted at university graduates. So ask your questions with an end in mind! ## 12\. Copy and Paste Template Prompts Don’t be afraid to use templates from other sources as a quick guide. Copying and pasting the template prompts a great way to get started, especially if you’re new to chatGPT or don’t want to rack your brain coming up with the “right questions.” These templates will be time savers because they’re likely tried and tested, so they will have better chances of giving you relevant and accurate data. And you can always customize them along the way to suit your search better. ## 13\. Give Elaborate Examples When you’re asking for personalized assistance, the key is to ensure that you’re giving the prompts enough information so they can get a good idea of your goal. If you want r[ecommendations on vacation destinations](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/03/01/the-best-examples-of-what-you-can-do-with-chatgpt/amp/), for example, list activities and hobbies like yours so the bot will know what you’re looking for. To do this, start by identifying your problem, then clearly state examples that accompany that problem. E.g., “Top 10 suggestions for a solo vacation.” You can list your hobbies as part of the prompts to guide the AI.  That way, the destination will be more likely to align with your interests and be where you’ll have fun. List these examples so that [artificial intelligence](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-chatgpt-alternatives-what-other-chatbots-offer/) can use the information accordingly.  ## 14\. Ask Open-Ended Questions Open-ended questions are the best way to gather information about any topic. They help you collect detailed, relevant information more effectively than yes/no questions. That’s because they allow the AI to expand on its answers and provide more details.  For example, consider asking, “What are the dangers of eating chalk?” Such a question would likely generate a more detailed response highlighting how your body could be negatively impacted if you ate chalk. Asking, “Is chalk good for you?” on the other hand, would likely only generate a yes/no response without any elaboration. ## Prompt Examples Let’s put this advice into practice, shall we? Here are examples of how to phrase your prompts: ### Ask it to Translate the Text I want you to translate my words into English and improve the text. I will use five different languages, and you must identify the language used, translate it to English, and generate an improved adaptation. I want you to replace my simple expressions with more expressive words to create better xx sentences.  Make sure the meaning and context aren’t changed while improving the text, but make it more descriptive. I want you to only generate the translations and corrections without adding more information about the topics and questions. My first sentence is “kan jy my na die naaste kroeg in die dorp verwys” ### Ask It To Suggest A Holiday Destination Please act as a travel guide and suggest my best solo holiday vacation. I will give details about my hobbies, likes, and the places I enjoy visiting. You will use these details and examples to suggest an ideal vacation destination. My first suggestion is, “I am a single Filipino in my mid-thirties, and I enjoy history.” ### Ask It To Act As An Interviewer I want you to pretend to interview for an HR position in a big hospital. I will act as a candidate, and you’ll direct the questions to me. I want you only to ask me questions as an interviewer would and answer as the interviewer without writing a full dialogue yourself.  Hold the conversation with me. You will direct the questions to me and wait for my replies without digressing or explaining. Please ask the questions one at a time, like an interview would be done, and wait for my response before moving on to the next dialogue. My first sentence is, “Good morning.” ### Ask It To Act As A Stand-Up Comedian Please write a script where you act as a stand-up comedian. I will give details related to the topic you’ll write about, and you will use humor, satire, and observational abilities to write an engaging, funny routine. Ensure to add relevant anecdotes to create a more relatable script. My first request is, “Write a witty narration about the worst date you’ve ever been on.” ## To Sum Up! ChatGPT is undoubtedly a valuable tool to help you get the information you want. To reiterate: don’t rush in with your first query—take advantage of ChatGPT’s ability to personalize assistance; hopefully, the experience will be much more rewarding. We hope these tips will help you start your path to ChatGPT mastery. If you’re still having trouble, don’t fret! There are many other ways to get in on the action—like taking a class or doing more research. The important thing is that you keep practicing and learning from your mistakes! Comment below and let me know about your experience with chatbots so far! Enjoyed this article? Read on to get to know more about AI-driven chatbot technology: - [Jasper vs. ChatGPT: The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/) - [Can Jasper.ai Really Replace Your Copywriter?](https://alejandrorioja.com/can-jasper-ai-really-replace-your-copywriter/) - [Review Of Jasper.AI: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing](https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-jasper-ai/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## How Prompt Engineering Can Revolutionize Your Product Design Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-prompt-engineering-can-revolutionize-your-product-design/ Published: 2023-04-13 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Productivity ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line This elite profession is about developing complex systems and writing code, surpassing even the most talented software engineers. But that’s not all – the secret to success lies in the art of prompt engineering. This cutting-edge technique involves tailoring language models to suit your specific needs, allowing you to unleash the full potential of AI. With AI prompt engineering, you can develop and deliver input prompts that effectively train AI models for specific tasks. This includes selecting the right data format and structuring it in a way the model can understand. The technology landscape is evolving at a dizzying pace, and the realm of application development is no exception. Enter the enigmatic rapid engineer, a profession that harnesses the power of word embeddings, like [ChatGPT](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-chatgpt-alternatives-what-other-chatbots-offer/), to engineer complex systems and write code that leaves traditional software engineers behind. Explore the fascinating and occasionally bewildering world of the prompt engineer with us. In this article, we’ll uncover their identity, their crucial role in the industry, and the qualifications and expertise they need to excel in this rapidly changing and dynamic domain. Keep reading to learn more! ## All About Prompt Engineering Unlocking the power of language models requires prompt engineering, a practice that involves fine-tuning and customizing them for specific purposes.  By providing clear and detailed cues, you can steer a language model toward generating highly relevant and personalized content that saves writers and bloggers valuable time and effort.  The result? Superior, bespoke content is produced more easily, freeing resources for other essential tasks. If you need a refresher, the text is the main vehicle for user interaction and generative AI models. You can convey directives to the model on what to do through a textual interface.  The prompt is the primary directive you give to the model, which acts as a compass. DALLE-2 and Stable Diffusion image formation AI models, for instance, rely on this directive as their major cue, specifying the intended outcome.  In big language models like GPT-3 and ChatGPT, the prompts can vary greatly in complexity, ranging from simple queries to intricate problems that require a vast array of data. AI prompt engineering generates and supplies input prompts to train [AI models](https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/) for specific tasks. It involves selecting the right data format and organizing it in a way easily understood by the model.  The primary objective of AI prompt engineering is to provide top-quality training data that enables the AI model to produce accurate predictions and make informed decisions. It is an essential step in creating and deploying AI systems that can accurately perform complex tasks. ## The Role of a Prompt Engineer A prompt engineer is a skilled professional responsible for crafting and enhancing prompts that assist AI models in generating more precise and impactful responses. They strive to comprehend the user’s or system’s requirements and provide concise, understandable, and germane prompts to the task at hand. Moreover, a prompt engineer is tasked with continually testing and refining prompts to improve accuracy and effectiveness. They employ advanced data analysis and testing techniques to scrutinize the AI system’s performance and identify opportunities for enhancement. ## AI Engineering Quick Guide To unlock the full potential of the latest, massive and robust generative models, you must learn how to skillfully coax them into producing awe-inspiring narratives. This includes stunning visuals and unique features like automated video editing and text summarization tools. Here are some examples of prompts that can be used to direct these models: - Directions - Question - Input data - Illustration ## Prompt Engineering Examples In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, companies from various industries utilize various prompts to extract specific details about the latest tools, techniques, and cutting-edge methodologies in their respective fields. ### Copywriting By leveraging the power of [prompt engineering](https://fourweekmba.com/prompt-engineering/), a skilled copywriter can effortlessly create a magnetic sales page for a new product. Generally, it utilizes persuasive language and proven calls to action to convert mere visitors into eager buyers. This technique involves guiding a language model toward generating precisely the type of content to accomplish these goals with minimal effort. The result is a high-quality and bespoke sales page tailored to specific needs and requirements. AI can produce in-depth, top-notch material that caters to your unique specifications by providing a well-defined and meticulous prompt. Naturally, as with any AI-generated content, the output must undergo scrutiny, modification, and polishing to guarantee its accuracy and appropriateness. ### Blogging To create a captivating blog on digital marketing advancements, a blogger may resort to prompt engineering to provide insights into the industry’s cutting-edge tools, methods, and optimal approaches. ## The Benefits of Prompt Engineering By practicing prompt engineering, you can leverage the strengths of AI while mitigating its weaknesses. While AI excels at generating large amounts of data quickly and accurately, it may lack the creative spark necessary to produce original content. You can guide the AI to create unique, high-quality material by providing a detailed and precise prompt. Reap the rewards of prompt engineering to fine-tune your content to match specific audiences and objectives. Consider you are writing a blog post for a new product. You can use prompt engineering to generate a conversion-optimized article by applying persuasive language and compelling calls to action that have been tried and tested. ## How to Get Started in Prompt Engineering Prompt engineering, although daunting, can be a rewarding and fruitful approach to enhancing AI technology’s effectiveness and accuracy. But where to begin? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here’s a quick and easy guide on starting prompt engineering and making the most of your AI tools. ### Determine Your Requirements Discover the power of prompt engineering and unlock its potential to supercharge your business and personal life. The applications of this dynamic tool are vast and varied, encompassing every aspect of your professional and personal growth. Prompt Engineering has you covered whether you’re looking to optimize your customer service, maximize your marketing impact, boost sales, or improve your health and well-being. Education and learning are also ripe for transformation through the cutting-edge technology of prompt engineering. ### Work with Experts Join forces with brilliant minds in artificial intelligence and natural language processing to craft and launch cutting-edge technological innovations that are made to suit your unique specifications and aspirations. ### Create Prompts that are Straightforward, Simple, and Relevant Unravel the labyrinthine maze of data and pinpoint the exact pieces of information or direction necessary to elevate the effectiveness of your [AI technology](https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/AI-Artificial-Intelligence) or individual routine. Formulate prompts that are concise, explicit, and ideally suited to the task at hand. Continuously subject your prompts to rigorous experimentation and refinement, relentlessly fine-tuning them to heighten their precision and potency. ## How to Make Use of Prompt Engineering in Business Prompt engineering is a mighty tool that can optimize workflows, enhance customer service, refine marketing messaging, and streamline sales processes. The possibilities of how prompt engineering can be applied in the workplace, marketing, and business are vast and varied, and here are just a few examples: ### Customer Support Transformative prompt engineering methods can enhance and optimize various workplace and business operations. A few ways in which it can be implemented include: 1\. Creating prompts, like chatbots and automated response systems, can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of customer support interactions. 2\. Offering prompts to assist employees in completing tasks and following procedures more efficiently, reducing errors and boosting productivity. ### Sales and Advertisement With prompts, you can revolutionize your sales game by creating dynamic sales scripts and customer interactions that lead to higher conversion rates and quicker transactions. By providing comprehensive prompts, you can guide your sales representatives through the entire sales process, arming them with insights to help them make informed decisions and close deals more efficiently. ### Business Marketing  Maximize user engagement and improve conversion rates by utilizing prompts to craft targeted and bespoke marketing messages that resonate with your audience. Deliver prompts that guide potential customers through the sales funnel, providing tailored information and compelling calls to action at every journey stage. ## How to Make Use of Prompt Engineering in Everyday Life Prompt engineering is a versatile tool that can be applied not only in business settings but also in various everyday situations. Here are some examples of how rapid engineering can be used in practical ways: ### Education and Learning Revamping prompts a powerful technique that can be applied to customize learning curriculums by catering to individual preferences and learning modes. Generate prompts to navigate educational content, tests, and assessments, improving knowledge acquisition and retention. ### Productivity and Discipline Prompt your mind to remember daily tasks like working out or taking your meds with helpful reminders. Incorporate prompts to guide you through a productive morning or nighttime routine, reducing decision-making stress and streamlining your daily life. ### Wellness and Health Prompt-based systems are effective tools to help you monitor and improve your eating habits, exercise routines, and overall health goals with personalized feedback and assistance. Using prompts that guide you through mindfulness and stress management activities can enhance your mental and emotional well-being, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. ## The Challenges of Writing a Prompt A successful prompt involves more than just straightforward phrasing and a solid understanding of the inquiry’s objective. Generally, a great prompt should be clear, open-ended, and straightforward. It should offer enough information for the respondent to grasp what is being asked and the expected response type.  Additionally, it should allow for imaginative thinking and interpretation, providing room for individual expression. However, a great prompt should also be significant, engaging, and compelling to the intended audience. Keeping in mind the context and objective of the challenge is also crucial. Creating a top-notch prompt generally depends on the task’s complexity or the information you are trying to convey. Nevertheless, anyone can develop a great prompt with good practice and meticulous attention to detail. ## The Importance of Understanding Prompt Engineering Staying ahead of the competition is crucial in today’s rapidly evolving market. As technology advances, products and services become more innovative, and customers expect better experiences. By embracing prompt engineering, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure your business runs efficiently. Whether launching a new product or providing customer service, understanding prompt engineering can help you succeed. Businesses that streamline operations and reduce errors can increase efficiency and productivity, resulting in greater success. Fast engineering can help businesses optimize processes and achieve better outcomes, increasing profitability. ## Prompt Engineering as Our Future Timely engineering is a cutting-edge approach that employs the power of AI, automation, and data to revolutionize business processes and beyond. With its versatile applications spanning marketing, customer service, and product development, it’s no wonder why rapid engineering is gaining momentum in the industry. By adopting rapid engineering, businesses can accelerate productivity while reducing costs and staying ahead. Unsurprisingly, businesses of all sizes adopt this powerful tool to enhance their operations and achieve a competitive advantage. Enterprises that allocate resources towards technological advancements and comprehend the utilization of speedy engineering will gain a competitive edge over their rivals. Like this topic? Check out these articles for more similar content! - [Top Alternatives To Chatgpt – What Other Chatbot Platforms Have To Offer](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-chatgpt-alternatives-what-other-chatbots-offer/) - [Jasper vs. ChatGPT: The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/) - [The Power of ChatGPT: From Customer Service to Lead Generation](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## From Lending to Saving: A Comprehensive Review of Marcus Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/from-lending-to-saving-a-comprehensive-review-of-marcus/ Published: 2023-04-04 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: The online-only bank Marcus was introduced in 2016 and has since garnered popularity because of its low-interest rates, straightforward platform, and absence of extra fees. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line If you hope to get a better financial plan, you might want to look into an online bank I know: Marcus by Goldman Sachs.  Marcus by Goldman Sachs offers competitive interest rates on its products, such as savings accounts and certificates of deposit. This online bank is convenient for a client like you as it provides straightforward design making navigating and managing your account a breeze.  Marcus’s benefits, like no-fee savings accounts and personal loans, are a huge perk for its clientele. But Marcus may not be the best choice for you and everyone because of its drawbacks.  Ultimately, Marcus is a good option if you search for a straightforward savings account or personal loan without hidden fees. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.*  The increasing popularity of online banking in past years can be attributed to its many advantages, including its accessibility, efficiency, and convenience.  With the proliferation of smartphones and the widespread availability of online banking, clients like you can take care of your financial affairs whenever and wherever you like.  Also, with just a few simple clicks, clients of online banks may view their account balances, pay bills, make transfers, and even apply for loans.  I trust that online banking may be your means if you want to save money and streamline your financial life because of its reduced fees and greater interest rates. Identical to Marcus by Goldman Sachs, an online-only bank that offers savings accounts, personal loans, and certificates of deposit, which I researched.  The online-only bank Marcus was introduced in 2016 and has since garnered popularity because of its low-interest rates, straightforward platform, and absence of extra fees.  In this post, I’ll review [Marcus by Goldman Sachs’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/marcus/) features, benefits, and drawbacks so you can decide whether it’s the best option for your personal banking needs. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-g-NQ5uusW4 ## What Is An Online Savings Bank? Online banking specifies that if you have a connection to the internet and a laptop, desktop, or other handheld devices, you can use banking online to handle your financial needs.  There will be no in-person interactions with bank personnel, but your account is always accessible via your desktop, laptop, or other handheld devices.  Bank transactions in an online bank can be completed whenever beneficial for a client like you, not just during regular office hours. In online banking, you can do almost anything you would do at a brick-and-mortar bank or credit union, from opening an account to paying bills.  You can do your banking online through a dedicated online institution such as a credit union or bank or one of the many online services offered by traditional financial institutions.  Typical banking services include making deposits, transferring money, applying for loans, paying bills, and viewing account history and balances.  There are many online banking institutions out there, but [Marcus by Goldman Sachs](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/marcus/) is what I believe is the best online bank I recommend to you. This is because, with this online bank, you may complete your financial transactions whenever it is most convenient for you, not only when the bank is open. ## What Is Marcus by Goldman Sachs? Launched in 2016, Marcus is a new service provided by Goldman Sachs, a 154-year-old Wall Street investment bank.  Marcus by Goldman Sachs, also known simply as “Marcus,” is an online bank that provides high-yield savings accounts, CDs without penalty fees, and no-charge personal loans.  Personal loans are available through Marcus by Goldman Sachs, an online bank. You can utilize personal loans to consolidate higher-interest debt to fund much-needed home repairs and renovations.  The only way to apply for a loan with this financial institution is via their website, as they have no physical offices.  Sometimes, the approval process can take as little as five minutes. ## Marcus by Goldman Sachs Offerings Marcus by Goldman Sachs offers a limited selection of products available for you to acquire; nonetheless, the bank works hard to ensure that the products offered are outstanding from others. These products and services include: ### 1\. Savings Marcus currently offers one type of regular bank account, a high-yield savings account. Yet, savers may get the most out of this account because no minimum deposit is required, no monthly maintenance cost, and a 3.75% APR. Compared to the average annual percentage yield (APY) of 0.37%, Marcus’s savings rate is significantly higher at 3.75%.  There is no requirement for a starting balance or a maintenance charge, although the bank’s withdrawal possibilities are more limited than some competitors. But you can get your money by wire transfer, check, or transfer to an external account.  Marcus allows $125,000 in same-day internet transfers to personal accounts outside of Marcus, provided the same person owns both accounts.  You must work with a Marcus agent for transactions above $1 million on the same day. Direct deposits and transfers, domestic wire transfers, and mailed checks are all acceptable methods of depositing funds into the account. ### 2\. Three Type Of CDs Marcus provides three Certificates of Deposit (CDs) to choose from: High-Yield, No-Penalty, and Rate Bump. With the possibility of converting to a higher rate, if available, throughout the CD’s term.  More flexible term lengths (six months to seven years) are available in the High-Yield variant. The lowest opening deposit for any of these CDs is $500. There is a rate guarantee on the High-Yield CD for ten days. No matter the rate, if you open a CD and deposit $500 in 10 days, you’ll get the highest rate. In addition, investors in High-Yield CDs have 30 days from the account opening date to deposit the whole amount. You will be penalized if you withdraw funds from your High-Yield CD before its maturity date. For CDs with maturities of 12 months or less, the penalty is 90 days of interest. And for those of 12 months to five years, 180 days of interest, and those with maturities of more than five years, 270 days of interest. Although the interest rates on No-Penalty CDs are lower than those on High-Yield CDs. The principal on a No-Penalty CD can be withdrawn early without penalty as long as the CD has been funded for at least seven days.   Nevertheless, you won’t be able to withdraw a certain amount from your penalty-free CD. It’s important to keep in mind when the CD you have will expire. If you don’t take action to remove the funds from your CD within ten days of the maturity date, your CD will be automatically renewed for another period by Marcus. ## Marcus by Goldman Sachs Customer Support Marcus customers must use the website, a smartphone app, or even the phone to get their money because the bank has no physical locations.  Despite the lack of physical locations, Marcus provides several options for contacting customer service. The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of the Marcus by Goldman Sachs website gives detailed and understandable replies to various potential concerns. When customers log into their account on the Marcus website, they can access a live chat feature and phone support available seven days a week.  Marcus is a digital-only bank with a feature-rich mobile app for both Apple and Google devices. The App Store rating for the iOS version is an impressive 4.8 stars, and the Android version is 4.5 stars. ## Benefits Of Marcus By Goldman Sachs Here are some benefits you’ll get in joining Marcus by Goldman Sachs online bank. ### 1\. Uncomplicated Access To Your Money Marcus savings account members can make free wire transfers to external accounts or ACH withdrawals to linked accounts online or over the phone.  A cheque can be mailed to you if you prefer that withdrawal method.  Money can be added to your account in various ways, including transfers, direct deposits, checks, wire transfers, and mobile check deposits.  Incoming and outgoing transfers between linked accounts are free of charge at Marcus, but it’s important to remember that your other bank may impose fees. No limit on withdrawals or transfers can be made during a given statement cycle. ### 2\. No Monthly Fees On Savings Accounts Marcus by Goldman Sachs offers an APY of 3.75% on savings accounts. This rate claims to be four times the national average and provides a simple calculator to compare your yield over time with Marcus to the APY on other accounts.  Marcus CDs offer a better annual percentage yield (APY) than competitive offerings across all maturities and other financial institutions. ### 3\. No Minimum Deposit Requirement For Savings Accounts Fees charged by some banks on savings accounts are one of the drawbacks that might eat away at your money. For instance, if your balance decreases below the account’s minimum each month.  But I assure you here at Marcus online bank, they do not charge its customers for having a savings account with them. ### 4\. The Balance Requirements For CDs Are Relatively Lows Creating a savings account requires no initial contribution from a client like you, though you must fund accounts within 60 days. You simply need $500 to open a CD, and you have up to 10 days after that to make your first deposit.  Marcus also offers No-Penalty CDs, allowing early withdrawal of the total amount before maturity without incurring a penalty along with its high-yield CDs. ### 5\. Assist In Tracking And Optimizing Your Finances Marcus account holders can benefit from convenient mobile access to their savings. You can easily monitor your savings progress, set up automatic deposits, and view your yearly interest earnings from the convenience of your mobile device using Marcus’ unique mobile banking app. Although Marcus by Goldman Sachs is an online savings account, the bank’s U.S.-based contact center is open seven days a week to assist customers with questions or concerns. ## Drawbacks Of Marcus By Goldman Sachs Marcus by Goldman Sachs has flaws and limitations like any other organization. These flaws and limitations include the following: ### 1\. No Physical Location A direct or online bank, such as Marcus by Goldman Sachs, is a financial institution that conducts all of its transactions electronically. These transactions include mail, mobile check deposits, chat rooms for customer care, and other electronic means.  This bank has no physical locations, as all its services are offered digitally. The absence of branches further constrains the inaccessibility of your Marcus account. ### 2\. Do Not Offer ATM Or Debit Card Since Marcus does not have a physical store, so do ATM networks. Consequently, accessing funds in your Marcus accounts will be difficult. More than just the cost of using an ATM outside your network is at risk here.  Quickly withdrawing monies from your savings account requires an electronic funds transfer (ACH) or a wire transfer. ### 3\. No Mobile Check Deposit Feature You can only deposit a check into your Marcus account by mailing it in, even though a user-friendly mobile app is available for Android and iOS. But domestic wire transfers, direct payments to savings accounts, and international wire transfers are also options. Despite an easy-to-use mobile app for iOS and Android, sending it via U.S. mail is the only way to deposit a check into your Marcus account. Although you can also set up fund transfers with a linked external bank account, send a domestic wire transfer, and make direct deposits into savings. ## Marcus by Goldman Sachs: Reliable And Trustworthy Online Bank Marcus by Goldman Sachs, overall, is a reputable and trustworthy online bank due to its low fees, convenient interface, and competitive interest rates. The bank has a good reputation and is supported by Goldman Sachs’s reliability and resources.  Marcus does not have the same range of services as a full-service bank, but it does make saving and taking loans online easy and convenient.  Conclusively, I suggest [Marcus by Goldman Sachs](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/marcus/) as one of your best options. They could be your best online bank if you value high customer service and transparency in your financial plans. If you liked what you read about my review for Marcus by Goldman Sachs, comment and share this post. And to learn more, check out my previous post from the link below, discussing financial plans and some of my reviews. - [Personal Finance 101 – Everything You Need to Know About Money](https://alejandrorioja.com/personal-finance-101/) - [How Does Whatsapp Make Money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/) - [How Does Sweatcoin Work? A Detailed Overview Of The App](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-sweatcoin-work/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Bumble Business Model: How Bumble Makes Money? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-bumble-makes-money/ Published: 2023-03-27 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Business TL;DR: According to the US market, Bumble occupies about 12% of the segment, from the over 42 million active dating app users monthly. With that statistical data, you can find your “soulmate” if you believe in those ideas. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line When Bumble launched in 2016, the dating app industry saw tremendous success. Swiping right and left worldwide to find a perfect match was now possible!  People worldwide were looking for matches and making plans on this new platform. But unlike other apps that made women feel like a barfly was hitting on them, Bumble is different. When other dating apps are less strict with their guidelines, resulting in sexual harassment, Bumble protects women from all of those. Bumble is a revolutionary dating app enabling females to take control of the conversation and reject unwanted advances.  This unique concept shields them from online harassment and spam. That makes it the perfect feminist-friendly alternative to other apps where both males and females can swipe freely. By putting women first, Bumble has immensely impacted modern dating culture! With the rise of dating apps like Bumble, many use it to find someone special and achieve those relationship goals. While it is not all perfect, those dating apps have key features that make our quest easier than ever before. In this blog post, I will walk you through everything you need to know how Bumble makes money and how amazing their business model and strategies are! ## Quick Overview: What is Bumble? As today’s [digital tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) continue to improve, dating and networking arrangements have also followed the course of current setups. Distance and time no longer hinder you from finding your perfect match romantically or platonically. Bumble was launched in 2016 as a dating platform with a unique twist. It was founded in 2014 by Whitney Wolfe Herd, who wanted to create an app where women felt empowered and could control their dating experience. One of the main features of Bumble is that only women can initiate contact with matches. This feature has been hugely popular and sets Bumble apart from its competitors. In addition to its dating platform, Bumble has other services such as: ### 1\. Bumble Date When I first signed up for the app, I was asked to choose between using it for a date, friend, or business purpose. The app’s main purpose remains to be a dating platform, so when I select ‘date,’ I am taken to the home page, which contains all my potential matches. According to the US market, Bumble occupies about [12% of the segment](https://www.datingsitesreviews.com/staticpages/index.php?page=Bumble-Statistics-Facts-History), from the over 42 million active dating app users monthly. With that statistical data, you can find your “soulmate” if you believe in those ideas. ### 2\. Bumble BFF Bumble BFF is a wonderful extension of the original Bumble Date feature; it pairs users with one another solely for platonic relationships. This addition to the app has been particularly useful for me because I can build strong friendships without any stressful expectations! ### 3\. Bumble Biz Bizz is the professional side of this ‘dating’ app. This is a perfect feature for people like you and me, who may have some “trust issues.” It has a pool of professional individuals which I find amazing, and an opportunity for us to expand our networks regardless of the field to which we belong. ## How does Bumble Works? On this platform, women make the first move—meaning they must send the initial message to start a conversation with someone of interest. This helps control women’s conversations and prevents unwanted messages from men who may otherwise have taken “no” for an answer. Bumble has several additional features for finding what you want using this dating app. - Extend - SuperSwipe - Spotlight - Backtrack - Beeline - Bumble Coins ## How does Bumble Make Money? Bumble works on a freemium business model so that we can use this dating app for free! With its freemium plan, I immediately got enticed by this app and started trying it out.  But if you want to experience more and explore other fun features Bumble offers, I recommend switching to premium accounts. ### 1\. Micropayments Perhaps after using the app for quite a while, just like me, you will realize that you don’t mind paying a small amount for valuable add-ons.  SuperSwipe and Spotlight may ask you to pay for certain Bumble coins you can acquire by depositing money into your account. These transactions are referred to as micropayments. ### ![](blob:https://alejandrorioja.com/6c9419e0-cedf-4355-89cf-1fe0eb0a1967) ### 2\. Subscription Model I got instant access to the platform’s deluxe level with Bumble’s subscription model. I enjoyed various benefits such as Beeline, advanced filters, Backtrack, Extend, and more. Although partnerships and advertisements also contribute to Bumble’s revenue, Bumble only made up [3% of its income in 2019](https://www.protocol.com/bumble-ipo?rebelltitem=2#rebelltitem2). ![](/images/posts/inline/6454dcff-image.png) ## Major Benefits of Using Bumble Premium I never regretted opting for Bumble premium plans. With this plan, I could do the following: ### 1\. Beeline The first significant thing I like about Bumble Premium is Beeline. This premium feature lets me see everyone who swiped right on my profile.  This means I no more have to wait around wondering and questioning my self-worth if I am not attractive enough for others. ### 2\. SuperSwipes The best thing about my premium Bumble plan is its SuperSwipes features, like regular swipes but with a little extra oomph. When I SuperSwipe on someone’s profile, it sends them a notification that I am interested in them.  I find this incredible because bringing my intention without going through the cringe part is easier. I also get five SuperSwipes weekly with the premium account, and I just can’t get enough of it! ### 3\. Rematch with Expired Connections Another thing I love about Bumble Premium is that I can rematch with expired connections. There may be times when things don’t work with the one I connected with before.  But with this feature, it is like giving that “connection” a second chance.   ### 4\. Travel Mode I also love Travel Mode, which is made to extend my matches for about 24 hours. It is perfect for me because I travel often.  It also allows me to change my location so that I can swipe on people when my current area or as I prefer. This comes in handy when traveling for business or pleasure and wanting to meet someone new in the area.  If you are a beginner, you only have to turn on travel mode and start swiping! ### 5\. Backtrack Bumble Premium also has Backtrack, a feature that I love. It works for me because there are times and moments when things don’t go as planned.  With Backtrack, I can undo accidental left swipes and put myself back in the running for potential matches without starting over again from scratch.  ### 6\. Incognito Mode I find Incognito mode perfect because sometimes I have this mood when I want to take a break from online dating but don’t want to delete my account entirely.  My profile will not be visible to anyone else on the app when I use their incognito mode. This means I can take some time off without worrying about people seeing my profile and judging me for being inactive. ### 7\. Unlimited Swipes When I first upgraded to Bumble Premium, I immediately got access to unlimited swipes, which I love. This means I no longer worry about how many likes or messages I can send daily or weekly.  Before getting the premium plan, I always calculate my messages, which can sometimes be annoying. Now I can get up to speed with other users and increase my chances of finding someone special! ### 8\. Spotlight One of the things that I find the most exciting about the Bumble Premium plan is the Spotlight feature. This feature allows my profile to be seen by more people who may not have found that I exist and looking for someone to be paired with. ### 9\. Advanced Filters On top of having access to unlimited swipes and Spotlight, the best thing I experienced as soon as I upgraded my account to Bumble Premium was their advanced filters.  These filters allowed me to narrow down potential matches even further. I can filter by age range, location, interests, and more! This makes it easier to find someone who meets all my criteria. ## Bumble VS Other Dating Apps As someone who has tried almost all the popular dating apps, I can tell you that Bumble is my favorite. Here’s why: ### 1\. Bumble VS Tinder On Tinder, users swipe left or right depending on whether they like a potential match’s photo. On Bumble, only women can initiate conversations with matches.  ### 2\. Bumble VS Match.com Match.com is designed to be more of a traditional online dating site where I can create detailed profiles and look through specific criteria such as age and location to find matches. On Bumble, I create less detailed profiles and then look through suggested matches based on my preferences.  Both platforms are good at finding my potential matches, but Match requires more effort since I need to search manually, while Bumble does all the work for me. ### 3\. Bumble VS Hinge I like to call Hinge “the relationship app” because it focuses more on long-term relationships than hookups or casual flings like other dating apps are known to do.  While Hinge does have its advantages, like its ability to connect me with my other friends on Facebook, I may sound biased. Still, perhaps it is because Hinge does not offer new features that make it significantly unique from Bumble. And Hinge also asks for my payments when I can use those offered features for free with Bumble! ### 4\. Bumble VS Skout Skout is another app similar to Tinder but with a twist: instead of swiping left or right, users can shake their phones to find potential matches nearby! I find this twist exciting and fun, but sad to say, it is like copying Tinder, and it is not fun in the long run. It is inconvenient to shake your phone just to find a match! Like Hinge, Skout offers premium features that you can get for free with Bumble. So comparing the two is irrelevant because I always choose the savvy one. ## Wrapping It Up: The Future of Bumble As Bumble caters to a broader range of market segments, in no time, this app will soon be patronized by many. Many will use Bumble not for dating and for people like me looking for deep and meaningful relationships.  It will also be soon recognized by those who want to extend their networks for their businesses and careers. It seems that Bumble intends to capitalize on its diverse product portfolio to grow in the future. Are you enjoying this post? Check out other pieces about how other apps make money in their ventures. - [How Does Discord Make Money? Is it Profitable? – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/) - [How Does Instagram Make Money? 2023 – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) - [How Does Facebook Make Money? 2023 – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) Your opinion matters! I would love to hear your thoughts on the future of those dating and networking apps in the comment section below. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## All You Need To Know About MedTech: The Future Of Medicine And Technology Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-medtech-use-cases-examples-future/ Published: 2023-03-24 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Reviews ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Technology plays a big role in the medical sector. Medtech covers various aspects of health care, from machinery and devices to digital health technologies and diagnostics. All these are used to improve patient care, giving everyone access to quality medical help. When used right, these can be life-saving, so get to know some of the use cases of MedTech and what it looks like. If you’re like me, you enjoy technology that simplifies and improves your life. I interact with and rely on all sorts of technology throughout my day, and one of the most convenient ways technology has made my life better is through fitness devices like smartwatches.  Such technology and more make up the vast world of MedTech, taking over the world and making access to various medical needs easier. From having access to your primary physician and other health needs at the tips of your fingers to advanced robotics performing surgery, Medtech seems to be taking over! While these are exciting strides being made, there’s still a lot of a gray area around Medtech and what it offers. So let’s talk about what Medtech is, its uses, and its future.  ## What is Medtech? Medtech is a term that’s used to describe health and medical technology. It includes everything from diagnosis and treatment to monitoring patient progress in healthcare.  Medtech has grown significantly but still faces some challenges now that it’s become more mainstream. However, it promises great benefits for patients and healthcare providers once properly understood and used right. Medtech is a sub-sector of the healthcare industry. It encompasses all technologies used in healthcare, including devices, apps, and software. Advanced technologies can be used to improve patient outcomes or even prevent and cure diseases once thought to be incurable. For example, a device that monitors glucose levels can detect diabetes before it becomes severe enough for people to need daily insulin shots. A smartphone app lets you track your blood pressure at home each night, so you know when it’s high, and you must go to the ER. ## Useful Applications of Medtech Medtech is the use of devices to improve healthcare. It includes everything from medical devices such as pacemakers and insulin pumps to assistive technology like wheelchairs and hearing aids and new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) that can help doctors make more accurate diagnoses.  ### Medical Devices  These are the main use cases for Medtech. Medicine has always been a field where technology has played an important role. Still, new developments in this field enable patients to receive care at home or outside traditional hospitals. For example: A diabetic patient who needs regular shots can get them delivered via an app on their phone instead of visiting their doctor’s office weekly. Patients with heart problems may also benefit from an automated defibrillator that sends an emergency alert if a seizure occurs. This means that even if there’s no one watching them 24/7, they can still receive prompt medical attention. ### Wearable Technology These include bandages, socks that monitor your heart rate and blood pressure, and eyeglasses that measure how much light you see. [Wearable devices](https://www.insiderintelligence.com/insights/wearable-technology-healthcare-medical-devices/#:~:text=Wearable%20devices%20in%20healthcare%20are,healthcare%20professional%20in%20real%2Dtime.) help people manage different conditions better at home, allowing them to live relatively normal lives.  Users can upload their information and health history and share it with their primary care providers. This improves how quickly they can get assistance and simplifies things since patients can easily keep track of their health status using these devices. Such innovations can be used for remote health monitoring by connecting to specific medical apps that can be shared with primary care physicians. ### Telemedicine The advancement of technology allows people to see and interact with doctors via video conference calls rather than traveling to see them in person. Telemedicine is becoming increasingly popular because it allows patients with long-term conditions or illnesses that limit mobility to gain access to care without having to travel.  Another important use is between doctors, allowing physicians to consult with each other to get second opinions or share knowledge bias virtual collaboration. That way, a doctor in one part of the world can “scrub in” on a worldwide surgery and help save a life.  ### Diagnostics & Preventive Care Medtech is crucial in helping medical personnel catch diseases on time so patients can get help. Machinery like MRIs helps health care providers detect anomalies indicating diseases, helping patients get treatment earlier. ### Robotics  Recently, robots have been seen performing complicated surgeries with high success rates. Their precision and efficiency promise great value in the medical field.  ## Benefits Of Medtech  There are many benefits of Medtech, including improved patient care and reduced costs. These can all be achieved by using new technology in healthcare. For example, an AI-driven algorithm that identifies patient risks may help prevent diseases from spreading through hospitals and keep patients healthier for longer. Another benefit is increased efficiency in healthcare settings. Using more efficient tools will reduce the time spent on paperwork and other tasks associated with managing a healthcare organization’s workflow processes.  That way, more attention can be focused on providing care instead of administrative workflows (such as scheduling appointments). Another benefit is increased productivity. Doctors or nurses with access to advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) can deliver higher-quality patient care while working fewer hours per day. This means they’ll spend less time commuting between offices, hospitals, clinics, etc., saving money on transportation costs while improving overall employee morale. Medtech has been able to leverage technology to make life-changing changes for patients who rely on that technology every day. For example, some people take daily insulin injections as part of their diabetes management regimen.  Others use continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGM) where they can better understand their blood sugar levels and adjust accordingly. These devices help people live better through improved self-management skills or risk reduction measures like weight loss or heart disease prevention programs. These are all developed with the aim to:  1. Provide better health  2. Assist in the early detection of diseases as well as the prevention  3. Improve treatment plans 4. Boost efficiency in managing various chronic illnesses  5. Support patients throughout various stages of healthcare  6. Enhance studies to come up with cures for different diseases 7. Helps reduce healthcare-related costs 8. Expanding access to quality healthcare to everyone, even from remote areas  ## What Does the Future Of Medtech Look Like? The future of MedTech is bright, as it’s a growing industry that will change the way we live. Medtech will be a major part of our lives in the future and can be used to help improve people’s lives. These technological solutions are an important part of our lives today because they allow us to do things that were previously impossible or too expensive for us to do. In addition to saving time by reducing risks associated with outdated technologies used in hospitals, patient care improves significantly! Some of the areas sure to be transformed by Medtech include: ### 1\. Drug Testing  Ongoing research suggests that there might be a switch to in silico methods of testing drugs using advanced technology without harming any humans or animals. The simulations will mimic human cells, a leap set to improve various aspects of the medical field. ### 2\. 3D printing and Bio-printing  Such technology will make medical devices of all kinds more affordable and accessible. 3D printing is making a three-dimensional object from a digital model.  Various materials can be used for 3D printing, including plastics, metals, and even living tissue. In healthcare applications, it’s often used for creating prototypes for new products or models before they’re made on a full scale. ### 3\. Sensors Will Be More Ubiquitous than Ever  With more research, sensors will be improved to monitor patients and detect disease more efficiently than before. This will allow doctors to track patient progress and detect infections even better via remote devices that send data back through Wi-Fi or cellular. ### 4\. Breakthroughs in AI Research Startups are free to try new things and innovate, and they’re predicted to be at the forefront of research for ways to improve patient care. Healthcare providers will have their hands full with artificial intelligence, data management, and analytics to improve patient outcomes. Of course, there are always exceptions—like surgeons who still prefer doing procedures by hand instead of robots. But overall, you can expect healthcare professionals everywhere (from nurses to physicians) to use AI technology during their day-to-day patient care. Uses will vary from:  - a better understanding of health conditions based on historical trends in disease prevalence;  - helping doctors make smarter decisions about patient care;  - predicting outcomes based on data collected from previous records ### 5\. More Collaboration Between Health Care Professionals and Researchers  To develop better solutions, we will likely see more collaboration across different fields to improve existing medical technologies. Healthcare professionals need to be on top of the latest technologies to stay ahead in this industry. New technologies promise to help improve patient care and save lives. ### 6\. Nanotechnology Advancements  [Nanoparticles](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/244972) are still at testing stages to possibly become the standard way of delivering drugs, treating cancers, etc. The advanced technology will allow them to swim throughout one’s body and operate on specific areas as little robots within your body, healing and mending different things. ### 7\. Remote Surgeries via 5G Networks Think laparoscopic surgeries are cool? Wait until you see [telesurgeries](https://www.businessinsider.com/5g-surgery-could-transform-healthcare-industry-2019-8) conducted Niles apart using network latency. A surgeon in one state could operate on a patient in a different part of the country! ## This is Only The Beginning! In conclusion, I’ve outlined a few of the most common challenges and opportunities in MedTech. The Medtech industry is a fast-growing one, and it has a bright future ahead. It is already helping thousands of people worldwide and will only grow bigger as researchers and engineers march on, finding more ways to help patients. From the obvious to the obscure (and everything in between), there is always something new to learn or re-learn about technology in the medical industry. What I hope you can take away from this article is that MedTech is an exciting field with many potential applications for civilians and physicians.  If you enjoyed reading about Medtech, be sure to check out my other articles on technology in different applications:  - [How To Successfully Market In The Pharma Industry](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-successfully-market-in-the-pharma-industry/) - [How Jasper.ai Is Changing The Way We Interact With Technology](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-jasper-ai-is-changing-the-way-we-interact-with-technology/) - [Jasper vs. ChatGPT: The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/) Be sure to comment on what you want me to talk about next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Mastering TAM SAM SOM: The Essential Formula for Market Analysis and Growth Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-tam-sam-som-how-to-calculate-it/ Published: 2023-03-20 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Investors will consider the TAM, SAM, and SOM of a company before making a final decision on whether or not to fund a firm.  These three indicators provide crucial details regarding the business’s field of operation. Estimating a product’s sales volume is possible by considering its “total addressable market,” or TAM.  A firm’s “serviceable addressable market” is an objective assessment of the market share that the company may attain and is used to create feasible objectives.  The total number of people who may become clients is what is meant by “market share.” While attempting to assign a value to the firm, investors could begin with the SOM as their reference point. Expert estimations are used to evaluate the potential size of a market and the sales revenue that may come from that market. Building a total addressable market is essential for every business, whether just getting started or entering a new industry. Estimating a market’s size is crucial for several reasons. First, I’ll tell you why. 1. Allows firms to gauge the potential profitability of an initiative. 2. Aids investors in deciding on whether or not to fund a firm. 3. Facilitates the development of an effective advertising campaign by illuminating target-audience preferences. 4. Allows for a more accurate picture of hiring needs to be formed before launching, which in turn allows for a more efficient hiring plan to be formulated. 5. Maintaining a regular schedule of market sizing exercises provides invaluable insight into your total addressable market, accessible submarket, and overall addressable market. ## Top-Down Approach and a Bottom-Up Approach to Market Size Analysts factor in their total addressable population and prospective revenue channels when calculating a market’s potential size from the top down.  If we start with the maximum amount feasible, we may work backward to get a better feel for the magnitude of the prospective market. Using a top-down strategy to market size to identify your potential actionable market is possible. The size of the market is assessed beginning with conservative assumptions. Discover which people segment you want to focus on. Next, based on those assumptions, size and growth projections are made (and maybe some market research).  The existing market share, sales volumes, and distribution channels of similar items are used in this bottom-up methodology to estimate the total addressable market size. When results from your bottom-up and top-down models are consistent, you may have grounds for confidence in your assessment of the market size. You may need to adjust your assumptions to get there, but doing so is good since doing so will make your final estimate more precise. ## Understanding TAM SAM SOM When launching a brand-new company, there is certain to be an abundance of enthusiasm and drive. Maybe you had grand plans to cash in big time when it finally reached the shelves.  A firm grasp of the market in which you compete, both its total size and your present share, is essential for making your ambition a reality. Every potential investor will evaluate the strength of your business plan. Generally speaking, your business model will be evaluated based on TAM, SAM, and SOM. Still don’t get it, huh? While it may seem difficult at first, the process is rather easy. When used together, these three metrics provide invaluable information about the industry in which you operate. Important details about the relevant markets’ reach and the relevant businesses’ availability are provided. Moreover, this is why a company’s strategy and an investor’s presentation should center on these KPIs.  The advertising and marketing strategies should also include these factors. ### Total Addressable Market (TAM) The “total addressable market,” or TAM, of a product or service, may be used to estimate its potential sales volume.  Maximum possible profit from selling a product or service in a certain market. In terms of its use in businesses. Total addressable market stands out for its ability to quantitatively assess a market’s expansion potential. The TAM is often the starting point for first estimations when assessing potential new markets. Starting a business without determining whether there’s a market for your goods is bad. Without this data, however, it will be unable to test the assumptions behind the forecasted expansion and revenue. ### Serviceable Addressable Market (SAM) A serviceable addressable market provides an objective estimate of the market share that a company may gain to help them establish achievable objectives. TAM’s Sales and Account Management (SAM) component is useful for weeding out leads that can’t be converted into paying clients. By excluding these groups, we may more precisely focus our marketing efforts.  In addition, it serves as a helpful catalyst for thinking about how factors like competition, culture, resources, etc., impact the business. With the help of SAM, you can zero in on your ideal clientele and reduce your marketing and sales efforts to reasonable proportions. Investors value SAM because it highlights the company’s potential for growth and market success. ### Serviceable Obtainable Market (SOM) The absolute number of people interested in purchasing from your firm is its market share. Use this number to help you and potential investors see the future of your company’s finances. The SOM may give potential investors a concrete number to begin valuing your business. An additional benefit of using a Serviceable Obtainable Market is that it can be used to identify areas of opportunity and gaps in the market. The discovery of innovative ways to promote already-available products and launch brand-new ones might benefit from this. Investors will be able to evaluate their options more precisely as a consequence. ## How To Calculate TAM, SAM, and SOM?  Calculations known as the TAM, SAM, and SOM may be used to understand a market’s size and structure better. You can easily calculate TAM, SAM, and SOM using these straightforward formulas. ### Calculating TAM One method of calculating TAM is a bottom-up analysis of your industry. Thus, to begin, compile a list of everyone and every business that could ever want or need your wares into a worldwide estimate of the total number of potential customers.  Then, multiply the annual income per customer by the total number of potential buyers. This issue is already resolved. ### Calculating SAM The total annual revenue of all potential customers who are good fits for your business might provide a sense of the proportion of the market your company will be able to service if you add up their numbers successfully. ### Calculating SOM Just divide last year’s profit by your industry’s addressable market. A year ago, your market share was comparable to what it is now. After that, multiply your market share from the previous year by the size of the total addressable market in your industry for the current year. Please remember that these calculations are just rough estimates, and include that into your strategy accordingly. The more time you give yourself to gather information on the market, the more precise your plans will be. ## The Importance of These Components The TAM value of a company is the most telling indicator of its future success and may play a pivotal role in persuading investors to back the firm.  You will soon understand that investors want a company with the “Goldilocks” total addressable market size. If the TAM is too large, investors would worry that the market is already saturated with too many players. Spending Caps (TAM): A low disqualifying TAM might cause a firm to be excluded from eligibility. When the timing is right, they will almost grovel to you for a check. The discordance between a market’s TAM, SAM, and SOM will make investors wary of a saturated one. Several significant companies compete for a small portion of the PC industry’s $250 billion TAM.  If a PC maker’s SAM is much lower than its SOM, investors will view a high cost to acquire new customers and a high-risk business. It is also conceivable for a new entrant to enter a mature market dominated by established players. Still, they must make a value theory case and identify an under-serviced SAM inside the TAM and where market share may be acquired rapidly. You may use these signs to study things like: 1. Opportunities for expansion for businesses that are already well-established in a substantial market. When they see that a firm has strong growth possibilities, investors are likelier to put their money into that company. 2. Investors are concerned about the market’s current status and will search for indications of expansion in the industry they want to enter. 3. The ability of a startup business to maintain its financial health is another factor that will influence investments in the business. ## How to Measure a Market’s Potential While hiring an outside organization to conduct market research on your behalf is feasible, business owners would be prudent to conduct their inquiry to grasp better the industry, its dynamics, and how their company fits into the sector. ### Tools for Market Analysis You may examine rival companies, find out what keywords and phrases people are typing into search engines to identify them, and track down the roots of each company’s online presence with the assistance of the vast number of tools available on the internet today. ### Online Dissertation and Studies There are analysts available for almost every sector and category of goods that exist today. Keeping an eye on market trends and obtaining a basic grasp of how a market is doing, both of which may be aided by the data shown here, are useful activities. ### Accounting Reports The achievements of your publicly listed competitors may give useful insight into the path your firm should take. Simple SAM and SOM evaluations may assist you in determining whether or not your goals are acceptable. ### Consult Professionals In certain situations, doing as much market data research as possible would not provide a comprehensive picture. Consult with seasoned professionals in the sector. They may be able to illuminate the many subsets and intersections that make up the broader category and guide you toward the “friendliest” of those subsets. ## Where this leaves us Startups may benefit greatly from considering the Total Addressable Market (TAM), the Share of the Market (SAM), and the Share of Moolah (SOM). Yet, a TAM may initially seem low in sectors like technology, where innovation often leads to new product categories. When they started, Google, LinkedIn, Facebook, Uber, Amazon, and eBay would have had small total addressable markets (TAMs). Due to growth, both the TAM and the companies’ ideal customers increased. A TAM may help establish the business’s early aims and potential, but it shouldn’t be seen as a promise of future success or a limit on the size of your organization. Like what you see thus far? It will help if you read up on some more marketing advice articles. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Finding The Best Crowdfunding Platform: Kickstarter Vs. Indiegogo Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/kickstarter-vs-indiegogo/ Published: 2023-03-15 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The site was founded in 2008 and is now one of the largest crowdfunding sites on the internet. Indiegogo, originally used as a financing tool for indie films, has since grown to accommodate over 800,000 creative projects. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Creators and artists often need help finding funds for their projects. That’s why crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo are so important.  But how do you choose the best platform for you? Knowing the various features these two platforms offer can help you decide which is best for you. Learn more about the different aspects of each site. I always look for an easier way to do things; this is where crowdfunding platforms, Kickstarter and Indiegogo, come into the picture. While I found Kickstarter to be more optimized for selling goods, if you’re looking for a platform to raise charity funds, then Indiegogo might be better for you. So, the perfect choice will come down to your project needs. Each offers distinct features and benefits, so it’s up to you to decide which will suit your interests well.  In this article, I’ll explain how they work so that you can decide which platform to use when launching your next campaign! ## What is Kickstarter, and What Does It Do? [Kickstarter](https://www.forbes.com/sites/nealtaparia/2020/08/26/how-to-use-kickstarter-as-your-secret-weapon/?sh=75c900bd1539) is a money-raising platform that helps people raise funds for their creative projects. First, creators set a financial goal and deadline, and then if people like the project, they can pledge money to help it succeed.  If you have an idea for something with a large market potential (like an app), Kickstarter may be your best bet because it allows you to reach out directly to those interested in supporting your work financially. ## What is Indiegogo, And What Does It Do? Indiegogo is a crowdfunding platform that allows creators to raise money for their projects. The site was founded in 2008 and is now one of the largest crowdfunding sites on the internet.  Indiegogo, originally used as a financing tool for indie films, has since grown to accommodate over 800,000 creative projects. It helps entrepreneurs raise money and provides them with [tools to grow their businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/).  Creatives can continue their Campaign after IndieGoGo’s in-demand feature, allowing them extra time to gather money and gain traction. ## How to Choose Between the Two Crowdfunding Platforms – Things to Consider These are two of the most well-known crowdfunding websites. Entrepreneurs and individuals use them to raise money.  Indiegogo is a global platform, while Kickstarter is just for US-based projects. However, both platforms include a wide range of projects so that you can make a choice depending on your project.  Each, however, has its positives and disadvantages. To help you in choosing which platform is more tailored to your needs, we have analyzed the features of both below: ### 1\. Registration  The process of getting registered with each platform differs significantly, and here’s how: #### Kickstarter The proposal must be presented clearly, and the description text and video must contain all important project details. Before the campaign goes live, the admin will request revisions if certain things are not highlighted. After projects are submitted, they will be examined for infractions.  Your project’s ability to make money is also examined. Finally, your task will be approved, and a page will be created if it is a good fit for Kickstarter. #### Indiegogo There is no approval process here; you only need to gather your campaign materials and start your campaign. A written description and video of your creative project will be required to get started. In addition, the specificity, reason for raising money, and your intent will be needed.  Next, you’ll need to develop a system for perks, a title graphic, and a description. Connecting your social media accounts is advisable, and also your website if you have one. ### 2\. Rules For Campaign When it comes to being strict, Indiegogo is less strict than Kickstarter. For example, unlike Kickstarter, which does not permit campaigns to offer their supporters financial alternatives, it allows you to locate investors through its website. In addition to accepting physical donations, Indiegogo also takes fundraising for charitable organizations, political causes, and civic initiatives. Unfortunately, Indiegogo does not allow private or personal cause campaigns. Since Kickstarter’s primary goal is to promote artists and the arts, it is set on only sponsoring initiatives that further this goal. Therefore, your project must aim to produce something that can be distributed to others.  Such as artwork or any technology, can also include experiences such as music and cinema. Indiegogo does not hinder campaigns or impose limitations on project developers as Kickstarter does. Anyone can start a campaign with an idea, a financial need, and an active bank account. ### 3\. Prototype Kickstarter requires you to provide a prototype for your idea on the [platform to fundraise](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ryanwestwood/2015/07/01/how-to-fund-a-business-with-kickstarter/?sh=2baa3ca67644). This helps convince potential supporters that your idea is real and functional.  A fully developed prototype may not be needed, but it should generally look like your ideal final project and have the same level of quality. With Indiegogo, however, you don’t need a prototype when you’re just starting. However, you might benefit from having one ready. A prototype enables you to calculate the financing required to sell your product. ### 4\. Hosting Videos  [Creating videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-go-viral-the-formula-for-creating-viral-videos/) to help get your message across is essential when crowdfunding your project. While Indiegogo uses YouTube and Vimeo, Kickstarter uses its video hosting facility.  An advantage of using a popular platform like YouTube is that it offers excellent marketing opportunities for new customers. That way, you’re guaranteed that many more people will see your project.  ### 5\. Pledges  As a supporter or pledger on Kickstarter, if the project doesn’t receive enough funding, there won’t be any charges put on your account. However, your payment card will be charged if the project gets successfully financed, and you will get a confirmation email confirming your status as a supporter. For [Indiegogo](https://www.forbes.com/sites/afdhelaziz/2018/08/24/how-indiegogo-is-crowdfunding-social-innovation-interview-with-breanna-digiammarino/?sh=30789cd07678), all donations or pledges must go through the payment processors to be processed. Credit cards will be immediately charged for pledges made directly through the Indiegogo website.  Donations made via bank account or debit cards will be handled by stripe. In addition, your Indiegogo account will show a successful transaction. ### 6\. Perks On Indiegogo, you can have exclusive incentives accessed through their direct connection. Creators usually use these to provide discounts, advertise, or thank devoted supporters.  You can use these secret bonuses to boost the momentum of your campaign. While Kickstarter has many methods to reward backers, such as through stretch goals, you won’t have the option to designate secret bonuses on the website. ### 7\. Strength Of Each Category Most of Kickstarter’s projects are for design, games, and technology. However, it has also been great for video and film projects, music, and publishing.  Indiegogo, on the other hand, excels in mass production, charity purposes, technology, and design. ### 8\. Campaign Days On both platforms, you can conduct campaigns between one to sixty days. However, keeping your campaign duration between 30 and 40 days is advisable.  The capacity to extend your campaign’s duration is another similarity between both platforms. You can extend the deadline if you start with a 30-day campaign and realize you wouldn’t reach your goal by the set date.  However, you cannot go beyond 60 days from launch. For Indiegogo, you can only extend your campaign once for 15 days. After that, you cannot extend your campaign anymore; for example, if you add seven days, you cannot add another seven days later.  Only approved campaigns are up for project extensions on Kickstarter. You ask and then wait for a response. You can extend it for more than 15 days. Extensions are only offered in the final week of your campaign. ### 9\. Monthly Visitors  The [number of visitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-google-analytics-goal-types-business/) is one of the important factors to consider when choosing a crowdfunding platform. It would help if you looked at how much time people spend on each campaign and how they interact. Kickstarter has about 25 to 27 million monthly visitors, while Indiegogo has nearly 9 million. The numbers can vary depending on what type of campaigns you’re promoting and your goals for your campaign.  ### 10\. Platform Charges  Both crowdfunding platforms take some of the money raised and impose a processing fee. Kickstarter charges 5% of total funds raised, plus a 3-5% payment processing fee. Indiegogo charges 5% of total funds raised, plus a 3% payment processing fee. Kickstarter won’t charge the 5% fee if you don’t reach your goal. Indiegogo levies 5% on all cash raised, not just the amount you set as your goal. Because of the global nature of Indiegogo, there might be additional fees for international transfers. ### 11\. Options For Funding  Kickstarter uses an all-or-nothing funding approach. If you don’t reach your goal, your money is returned to the backers who funded it.  You will only receive funds from your campaign if enough money is raised to reach your goal. If you decide to host your project on Kickstarter, analyze your workflow and establish reasonable objectives. Indiegogo offers two ways to fund your project. One is fixed financing which works similarly to Kickstarter’s all-or-nothing model. You set a funding goal; if you reach it, you get the whole money. If you don’t reach your financing target, your backers receive a refund. However, they also offer flexible financing options that allow you to keep the money if you don’t reach your goal. This form of funding allows you more leeway if you’re anxious about acquiring a goal or if your project needs time to gain traction. ### 12\. Payment Options Indiegogo accepts many methods from supporters, such as PayPal, credit cards, and apple pay. There was a 28% increase in donations after they added PayPal and credit cards to their platforms.  Supporters having more payment alternatives makes committing to a project and making contributions easier.  As for Kickstarter, there’s only one payment alternative available: stripe. This allows supporters and customers to make pledge payments using credit cards, but it does not offer quick payments like apple pay or android pay.  ### 13\. Worldwide Availability Kickstarter is only available in 18 countries despite having a bigger platform. At the same time, Indiegogo is accessible in more than 200 nations, which means more international availability. ### 14\. Size Of The Platform With about 2.7 billion dollars received from 11.8 million backers since the company started, Kickstarter has a larger platform. Indiegogo, on the other hand, has a much lesser platform, raising more than 800 dollars from 2008-2015.  ### 15\. Media Outreach  Kickstarter receives much more press coverage as opposed to Indiegogo due to the tight quality control image of Kickstarter. This means there are more press coverage prospects for your Kickstarter campaign.  If you’re in the PR business, having your project on Kickstarter increases the likelihood that journalists will respond favorably. ### 16\. Pledgers Information When a pledger clicks the pay button on Indiegogo, their contact information is available. In comparison, Kickstarter waits until you meet your funding target.  If you want feedback from your backers before the campaign ends, you must run a survey and ask for their information. ## So Which One is Better? Kickstarter and Indiegogo have advantages and disadvantages; the choice is yours to decide which is most important to you and your project. Although Kickstarter has a larger platform and more media recognition, your campaign may be constrained by its fixed financing and restricted product categories.  More categories and advertising data are available on Indiegogo. It all depends on what kind of project you’re planning to create.  If you found this comparison article helpful, check out my other articles. - [26 Best Fiverr Gigs Of 2023 To Grow Your Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-fiverr-gigs/) - [Guide to Becoming an Entrepreneur: Useful Tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-an-entrepreneur/) - [How to Get More Views on Youtube Youtube SEO tricks for 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) Comment below what other comparisons you want to read about. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Maximizing Your Facebook Experience With Facebook Touch: Tips And Tricks Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-facebook-touch/ Published: 2023-03-09 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Facebook Touch is a handy tool for 81.8% who prefer to access social networks through their mobile device. It’s not only user-friendly but also has a low data consumption. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Facebook Touch is a handy tool for 81.8% who prefer to access social networks through their mobile device. It’s not only user-friendly but also has a low data consumption. According to Facebook’s statistics, the classic Facebook app remains one of the highly downloaded applications, so it’s worth checking out as an alternative to Facebook Touch. In fact, Facebook Touch has been released, but what exactly is it, and how to use it? I’m here to address any of your concerns and more. Many people log in to social networks more often than once daily. For this reason, Facebook constantly introduces new features that improve the service for its users.  Facebook Touch was developed as part of Facebook’s ongoing effort to innovate its platform and customize technology to the needs of its users. In this article, I’ll cover the essentials for getting started: its main features, how to set it up, and the basic steps to install it. Keep reading if you’re interested. ## About Facebook Touch The Facebook Touch app is an upgraded version of Facebook that comes packed with numerous individual features. It is an H5 application designed as an application tailored specifically for smartphones. Facebook Touch is accessible on all mobile devices and can be used with any of them. It has an intuitive user interface and is an alternative to the standard Facebook app. The primary feature of Facebook Touch that sets it apart from the Facebook App is its superior visuals and intuitive [UI](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/02/09/the-future-of-customer-experience-zero-user-interfaces/?sh=76664c795e24). It also operates at a quicker speed than the earlier version. Even if your internet connection is poor, you’ll still be able to utilize Facebook Touch. ## Key Features of Facebook Touch Maybe you’re wondering, “What exactly are the most important parts of Touch?” It’s not that difficult to understand. As mentioned, this service is essentially an upgraded version of the standard Facebook website (www.facebook.com) and the mobile Facebook website.  It’s no secret that Touch has advantages over a standard mobile or non-mobile website for those using touchscreen devices. The following are some of those causes: ### Improvements to the User Experience Facebook Touch’s UI is optimized for touchscreen usage, similar to the mobile web and Facebook’s official applications. It implies no distracting features, such as large, awkward buttons or images chopped off at the bottom. To make the most of Facebook Touch, you may maximize its use by hiding your phone’s standard menu and button ribbons. ### Improved Waiting Time The nicest feature of Facebook Touch is how much easier it is to use than the mobile website or applications when you have a slow Internet connection. Thanks to H5’s optimization for touchscreens, and material such as photos, movies, and music, you may quickly load into your web browser without draining your data plan. ### Enhancement of Media Quality The internet requirements for Facebook Touch are lower than those for the mobile website, and it can load improved media. Touch will load higher-quality copies of your material rather than the blurry, pixelated mess that is often the default. Do remember, however, that it can’t make the uploaded material any better than it already was. ### Reduced Power and Storage Consumption Since Facebook Touch is a [web page-based service](https://www.forbes.com/sites/allbusiness/2019/05/25/small-business-website-tips/?sh=7a95af2821ad), this should function properly regardless of the Internet browser that your phone utilizes. It is compatible with any browser, whether the standard Android browser or the encrypted Avast Secure Browser. Unlike other Facebook programs, such as FB Lite, FB Touch does not need as many resources (memory, storage space, and electricity). ## What Are the Steps to Using Facebook Touch? You may use Facebook Touch on your mobile device by going to their website or downloading their app. The desktop version is easily accessible by following these login instructions: 1. Activate your web browser. 2. To use this feature, go to touch.facebook.com. 3. Select the login tab. 4. In the space provided, type in either the email address or the mobile phone number associated with your Facebook account. 5. Go ahead and type in your password. 6. Select the “Login” button. ## How to Download Facebook Touch If you go to the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store and search for “Facebook Touch,” the only result you’ll get is the “Facebook App.” You must acquire an APK file to install [Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-no-data-available-on-facebook-error/) Touch on your device. After installation, you may sign in and explore high-resolution photographs and a streamlined UI.  Follow these instructions to get Facebook Touch’s APK file: ### 1\. Modify Permissions Settings First, you’ll need to modify your device’s permission settings to download Facebook Touch. You’ll need to allow the installation of apps from unknown senders to this on your mobile device. ### 2\. Access Facebook Touch through a Web browser search Launch your preferred web browser and enter “download Facebook Touch,” where the address bar would normally be. ### 3\. Select the Appropriate APK File Select, from among all the files that display, the APK file that satisfies all the parameters and conditions that have been specified. ### 4\. Click Here to Download the File Select the file you want to download, then click the download option. Using WiFi to save some of your mobile data is best. ### 5\. Download the Facebook Touch app. The program may be installed after the APK file has been downloaded. To proceed, choose “Install” from the menu. ### 6\. Open the App Get the most out of Facebook Touch by opening the app and signing in with your credentials. ## ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/QR7SJNHVkIfoZt0ER_yNXCfoC9pWIDupDFw4pEshSStLbeMIAB9khS2vAU_ocmWZya-Rkj50MRrmgBeiebTtB0XIcFf_AsQKto4l-wWTHPzeZ5Ryq9wN1fJkpILUaaab8YpUxrbqoX92uqlS) ## Advantages of Using Facebook Touch To get the most out of Facebook, try out Facebook Touch, a streamlined version that offers all the benefits of the original. Some of its benefits include the following: - Enhanced visuals - Superior picture clarity - Created specifically for touchscreen interfaces - Easy-to-navigate user interface - Reduces the amount of information needed - Effective and effortless operation - Full-screen mode - There are rarely any network problems - Doesn’t consume a lot of storage on your gadget - Direct and easy access to a wide range of options - Minimal drain on battery life - Supports both mobile and online platforms ## Who Should Have a Facebook Touch Account? Facebook Touch is available to everybody, although those without an iOS or Android smartphone will benefit the most from it. On the other hand, if you cannot use standard smartphone applications due to accessibility concerns, this option may be the way out for you. However, given it uses fewer data, it might be a smart option to consider if you often need to check Facebook while on the go. Since it functions normally even with slow internet access, it’s a method to save your mobile data plan when you don’t have a lightning-fast connection. ## What Functions Does Facebook’s Touch App Have? Facebook Touch provides quick and simple access to many of the site’s other functions. It provides a centralized location where users can quickly and easily access information throughout Facebook. You can access most of Facebook’s features by clicking the three dots in the upper right corner. It is because the Facebook Touch interface attempts to bring the majority of Facebook’s controls into a single area.  The contents of the new tab will be as follows: 1. When you click on this link, you will be sent to the page that contains your profile information. 2. You may find Facebook groups, [marketpl](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-resolve-facebook-marketplace-not-working-issue/)[a](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-resolve-facebook-marketplace-not-working-issue/)[ce](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-resolve-facebook-marketplace-not-working-issue/), and page recommendations in the “Suggested” section. 3. Videos on watch, the most recent, messaging, finding friends, etc., may all be accessed via the Favorites page. 4. The Groups tab displays all the groups to which you have been invited. 5. Here, you may see a catalog of all the available applications compatible with Facebook. 6. You may create advertisements and new pages under “Pages.” 7. Here you can access Facebook’s help center, customize your experience, ensure your safety, review important regulations, and even sign out entirely. ## Procedure for Disabling Facebook Touch Notifications Anyone who receives a lot of alerts regularly will likely find it annoying. Facebook’s “like” and “respond” notifications are particularly annoying. There is, however, some good news: You can quickly turn off the [notifications](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kathleenchaykowski/2015/11/11/facebook-delivers-news-alerts-through-notify-app/?sh=6184d07f5e51). Methods are outlined below. 1. You should access your mobile device’s “Settings” menu. 2. There will be a new tab open. Select “Apps” from the menu. 3. You’ll discover Facebook Touch when you go to your app menu. 4. Select the Notifications menu item by tapping here. 5. The app’s notifications may be turned off, and the process terminated here. 6. By doing so, you’ll stop receiving alerts on your phone from Facebook Touch. ## How Do You Communicate With Other Facebook Touch Users? Sending private [messages](https://alejandrorioja.com/deleted-facebook-messages-how-to-restore-them/) on Facebook Touch is limited to the Messenger app. It’s still necessary to utilize Facebook’s Messenger app to communicate with friends and family through private messages or to see requests for a private conversation. A Facebook user may instantly chat with many other users using the Facebook Messenger app. There are two ways to use the app: download it to your phone or tablet or use the online interface on Facebook. Messenger is not limited to one-on-one conversations; you can also use it to start group conversations, exchange media files, and conduct video conferences. If you don’t have an account, creating one is as simple as downloading the app or visiting the website’s Messenger and logging in using your existing Facebook account. After logging in, you’ll have instant access to the chat feature. If you want to start a conversation but need to figure out who to talk to, you may go through your Facebook friends list or search for specific individuals.  ## Can’t Wait to Upgrade to Facebook Touch? The Facebook Touch app is certainly a must-have for individuals who often use Facebook from their mobile devices. It improves your overall experience and makes it much simpler to use Facebook’s many useful services. In addition to being easier to use and faster to respond to, the image quality will also increase. Like this article? If you’re interested in learning more about how I may help you, please read the other content I’ve posted here. - [Everything You Need To Know About The Facebook Marketplace](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/) - [How to Sell Anything to Anyone (7 Creative Sales Techniques)](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) - [Which eCommerce Platform Is Best For Small Businesses?](https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/) --- _— [Alejandro](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems](/services/#agent) for founders. [See the stack →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Step-By-Step Guide: How To Activate Netflix On Your Smart TV Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-activate-netflix-on-your-smart-tv/ Published: 2023-03-08 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Standard Definition (SD) video may be seen on one device at a time for the low price of £6.99/$9.99 per month. You may stream HD content to two devices simultaneously for the standard price of £9.99/$15.49 per month. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Services like Netflix have revolutionized online streaming and allowed you to watch your favorite episodes and movies whenever you want. Netflix is regarded as one of the best online streaming platforms worldwide. For a low monthly fee, Netflix has many films, TV series, and original material. Netflix is available on various current gaming consoles, TVs, streaming devices, and computers. Not only does it provide thousands of excellent international shows and movies, but it also produces its original content. They are usually unique to the service, and some are unavailable elsewhere. You can watch it on bigger screens like your smart tv and enjoy it with your family. There are so many fantastic movies and television series available on Netflix. As a film enthusiast, I do a lot of streaming and binge-watching on this platform. Thanks to Smart TVs, it’s much easier to watch your favorite episodes at home. In this post, I’ll show you how to activate Netflix on your Smart tv so you can stream from various Netflix libraries. If you’re interested, let’s start. ## Netflix Cost [Ne](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/)[t](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/)[flix](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/) is a streaming media service that provides immediate access to more than a thousand different television episodes and feature films. There is just one payment required each month for this subscription service.  Depending on your Netflix package, you can stream to many screens simultaneously. Also, on your membership, you may choose three different video quality options: normal, high, and 4K Ultra HD. At now, you may choose from one of three membership tiers: 1. Standard Definition (SD) video may be seen on one device at a time for the low price of £6.99/$9.99 per month. 2. You may stream HD content to two devices simultaneously for the standard price of £9.99/$15.49 per month. 3. To simultaneously view 4K Ultra HD video (with HDR when available) on up to four devices, you may upgrade to the Premium plan for £15.99/$19.99 per month. Nowadays, you can watch almost everything in high definition (HD), and many titles even come in 4K Ultra HD. HDR10 (one HDR standard) is included with most of them, whereas Dolby Vision (another HDR standard) is included with others. ## How to Watch Netflix on your Tv You will need a device that has the Netflix app to view Netflix on your television. The Netflix app may be downloaded on a wide variety of devices, including: - Smart TVs - Set-top boxes (or STBs) - Blu-ray players - Game consoles You may find the Netflix app on the primary menu or the home screen of Netflix-capable televisions. Try searching for “Netflix” in the app store of your television to check whether the app is downloadable. **Note:** If you’re having trouble finding and installing the Netflix app, you may need a device update. Check the owner’s handbook that came with your TV, or get in touch with the company that made it if you need help upgrading the software system on your TV. ### Guide to Activate the Netflix App on Smart TV The Netflix app on a Smart TV is quite easy to activate after it has been installed. Enable the app on your Smart TV by following the instructions outlined below: #### 1\. Start the Smart TV Establish a connection between your Smart TV and the network in your house. To stream content from Netflix using the app with your Smart TV, you must ensure that your TV is connected to the network.  The two most common methods are Ethernet wiring and wireless network pairing for your TV. You can stream content to your television using media streaming players such as an Apple TV, Roku, [Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-you-should-know-about-google-top-ranking-factors/) Chromecast, or Fire Stick, even if your television is not smart. #### 2\. Start the Netflix app and click the Login option Go to the app menu on your Smart TV. You may access the app menu by pressing a button on most Smart Remote control controls. Typically, the emblem or brand name of the TV manufacturer appears on this button. You may need to visit the app store for your Smart TV if you need help locating the Netflix app there. You may need to update the TV’s firmware to utilize streaming apps. For specific information on your TV model, visit the page on the manufacturer’s website.  Sign in using the credentials for your Netflix account. You’ll need to subscribe to a plan on Netflix that allows streaming video to get started. You may use the Smart TV app to access streaming subscriptions. There is a sign-up form on the Netflix homepage for those interested in creating an account. Netflix accounts may have many profiles; if so, you may switch between them here. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/XWdw7qWC1AUhnmfSo3ugRvAFnwZJxX7t-zyZOGKjbNN36wa10BgFl8QV2LWWtKWP_TOBY_E-W5sCb2tJpnAmvCGz1vKw0L0uU6lYjs0ML3pZK4kSePv6hIjZQKHjR6sGpQlA3DwFdo-CEWIAC76_6Uc) #### 3\. On a PC, choose the Activate option You may get the code by logging in to the Netflix activation page on your computer. To activate your [Netflix account](https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonifitzgerald/2022/10/20/is-netflix-password-sharing-an-even-bigger-problem-than-people-thought/?sh=7ce0c88c32cb), you will need to enter the activation code on your Smart TV. When you refresh your screen, your Netflix account should load quickly. The inconvenience of having to set up a second device is outweighed by the benefit of never having to log in with a username and password again. ### How To Watch Netflix Using a Google Chromecast? You can stream Netflix from your device if you have an Android, iPhone, or iPad. 1. If your TV has an HDMI input, you may directly connect to the [Chromecast](https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2021/05/11/the-chromecast-with-google-tv-makes-watching-television-more-accessible-in-more-ways-than-one/?sh=6adfd27f1ae0). 2. You can turn your TV on by using the remote control. 3. Choose the HDMI source that the Chromecast is currently connected to. 4. If this is your first time doing so, configure your Chromecast. 5. You may watch Netflix on the go by opening the app on your smartphone or tablet. It is a red N superimposed over a black symbol.  6. Input your Netflix login details (email and password) and touch the Sign In button if you aren’t already signed in 7. If your Netflix membership supports multiple profiles, choose the one you want to use to view episodes and movies. 8. Choose a movie or program from your DVR that you’d want to view. 9. To begin playing, choose the Play icon. 10. Tap the device you’re using for Chromecast. 11. Utilize the Netflix app to take control of playback. In conclusion, after setting up your Chromecast, you won’t have to repeat all these procedures. Power your television and go to the port for your Chromecast device. Lastly, use the Netflix mobile device of your choice and cast content from there to your TV. ### How To Watch Netflix Using a Computer? An HDMI connection is the best way to get your computer’s video output onto your TV. Use an HDMI cable with your computer’s HDMI out connector and your TV’s in port. When connecting an HDMI source, take note of the in-port you use. 1. Check whether your computer has a DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, or Mini HDMI out port; if you don’t, find an HDMI out connector. You may require an adaptor to use these outputs with your TV. Even if you can pair your device with a TV through Bluetooth, you may experience a delay in the visual and audio. 2. If your desktop computer doesn’t have an HDMI port, you may use a converter to get the signal from your laptop to the TV. A 3.5mm stereo-to-RCA cable plugged into the computer’s headphone jack and into an RCA input that matches the TV’s video should do the trick. 3. Choose the HDMI input that your computer is connected to. To change the TV’s input, press the Source button. When you switch to the proper input, your computer’s display will appear on the television. 4. Launch a web browser and go to https://www.netflix.com. Click the “Sign In” button in the upper-right-hand corner of the Netflix website if you aren’t already logged in to your account, and then enter your email address and password linked to your account. Netflix accounts may have many profiles; if so, you may switch between them here. 5. To start watching, choose the film or program you want to watch and click on it. When you locate a film or TV program you’re interested in, you may see further details by clicking on its picture. 6. To begin watching, choose an episode below or the Play icon. Select the season you want to watch from the drop-down menu, then select the episode number. You may also stream media from your PC to your TV using screen mirroring. ## How Do I Change Profiles on My Smart TV’s Netflix App? Following the procedures below will allow you to change your Netflix profiles on your Smart TV. 1. Launch the Netflix application on the Smart TV. 2. Find the symbol that looks like a person’s name and click on it. 3. Next, pick [Profiles](https://www.forbes.com/sites/markrogowsky/2013/08/02/netflix-profiles-one-step-up-two-steps-back/?sh=626195ca2cfb) from the available menu options. 4. You may change your profile by selecting your settings and choosing the alternative profile. ## What Are the Steps to Update Netflix on a Smart TV? Follow the instructions below to get the latest version of the Netflix app for your Smart TV: 1. Navigate your TV remote to the Home button to access the Smart Hub. 2. Choose Apps from the menu, then search for the Netflix app. 3. To update it, follow the instructions that appear on-screen. 4. Launch the upgraded Netflix app, and then settle down to watch your favorite programs. ## Netflix Won’t Play on Your Smart TV? Here Are Some Quick Fixes Now that you know how to obtain Netflix on Smart TV, you can attempt the following methods to fix any Netflix Proxy [Errors](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-no-data-available-on-facebook-error/) you may be experiencing: 1. You’ll need to restart the Netflix app on your Smart TV. 2. It can help remove and reinstall the Netflix app on your device. 3. Delete the contents of the cache in your Netflix app 4. To solve Netflix, power cycle the smart TV. 5. Make sure you have the updated version of the Netflix app. 6. Keep the Smart TV framework up to date. 7. Smart TV with a factory reset. ## Enjoying Watching on your Smart Tv With Netflix The fantastic TV series and movies on Netflix are always recommended as the next best thing to watch. In addition to re-airing classic episodes of television and movies, the streaming service has produced some of the most engaging original series in recent years. Following the guides in this article, you can install Netflix on your Smart TV and watch your favorite series and movies in no time. Like this post? Please read some of the other pieces I’ve written on this site to learn more about how I can assist you with your issues. - [Everything You Need To Know About The Facebook Marketplace](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/) - [How to Sell Anything to Anyone (7 Creative Sales Techniques)](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) - [Which eCommerce Platform Is Best For Small Businesses?](https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/) Remember to leave a comment with your ideas in the space below. Please share to let others know that we can assist you with your problems. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## The Ins And Outs Of Name Your Own Price (NYOP): How To Get The Best Deals Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/name-your-own-price-nyop/ Published: 2023-03-07 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The name your own price (NYOP) is a pricing strategy started by Priceline company wherein the sellers let buyers decide the total price they want to pay for a product or service. However, the transaction only occurs if the deal meets or exceeds the seller’s unrevealed threshold. Not all businesses are compatible with this pricing strategy, so most businesses cannot utilize it in their operations. The auto industry is the current industry that uses this kind of strategy.  The name-your-own-price (NYOP) strategy benefits buyers and sellers. But, it is more convenient for businesses, and it poses many challenges to buyers, such as quality, risk of losing, and effort. Have you ever encountered a business that asked you to name your own price on a product they offer? I recently experienced it too, and I  thought about how much it could affect a consumer.  If you’re gonna ask me what happened, I’m afraid I can’t answer that. Instead, I prepared this blog for you. So whenever you encounter something like this, you’ll know how to react because you know what it is and how it works.  Read on, and let’s find out what “Name your own price” means and how it affects a business and consumers.  ## What is Name Your Own Price (NYOP)? Name your own price is a pricing strategy wherein sellers let buyers decide the total amount they want to pay for the product. Still, the transaction only occurs if the deal meets or exceeds the seller’s unrevealed threshold. But how does the transaction flows? Basically, the transaction flows in four steps: 1. When the seller list products, they set their own price thresholds on which they’ll accept bids. The buyer is not aware of this threshold price. 2. Once buyers decide they like a product, they offer the first purchase. 3. The seller will ask the buyer to name the price they want for the [product](https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2023/02/22/4-ways-product-teams-can-foster-a-culture-of-inclusion/?sh=61f3ef2e2d31). The buyer’s pricing must match or exceed the threshold for the transaction to proceed at the advertised price. 4. There would be following rounds if the buyer’s pricing is lower than the threshold. In this round, the buyer can revise their offer until it meets the pricing all the sellers agreed upon.  Sometimes, the name your own price (NYOP) strategy is called reverse auction.  There are two types of auctions: traditional and reverse auctions. In a traditional auction, a seller provides a service that has a large number of potential customers. Everybody who can pay the price tag has the opportunity to buy the offered service or item. In the reverse auction, the roles are reversed.  The sellers who can give the product or service for the amount specified by the buyer get the auction.  To further understand, here’s an illustration.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/SdEbySxz4DqPrGq0J5jOa3tRnJSZy1RTLLHOfVQZ3F4DsRq_j3w-nrkHASR6Cxyhld90P3N58A2yHFO1FVkfY-Ud3HTnkvcjxNnJiSsGeYI7hhM1-kTLFGegq9BXMab8xMVrbYU2fozB79XXkbDIqyw) ## The Difference Between  Name Your Own Price (NYOP) and Pay What You Want (PWYW) Many misunderstand the name-your-own-price (NYOP) pricing [strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/land-and-expand/) as the same as pay what you want (PWYW) pricing strategy, but they are both different.  In some ways, name your own price (NYOP) is comparable to the pay what you want (PWYW) pricing strategy. Both include the active involvement of the customer in setting the price. Nevertheless, in contrast, to pay what you want (PWYW), the seller has more influence over the terms of the customer’s offer and the ultimate amount paid. The seller establishes the lowest price it would accept and can reject a buyer’s offer if it is lower than this amount. It might also keep information on a certain brand until after the sale to make more money. These elements make the name your own price (NYOP) more difficult for both buyer and seller than the pay-what-you-want (PWYW). ## Real-World Examples of Name Your Own Price Strategy It can be really confusing to differentiate between the name-your-own price (NYOP) and pay-what-you-want (PWYW) pricing strategies. For further understanding, here are real-world examples of name your own price strategy.  ### Priceline Priceline is an online travel service that assists clients in finding the most affordable options for travel-related products, such as airline tickets, hotel rooms, and rental cars. They were the first to implement the name your price (NYOP) strategy. How does it work?  A buyer at Priceline sets the price by bidding for a service. Priceline’s algorithm selects a service provider at random whose threshold falls short of the cost specified by the buyer.  The buyer is then charged the amount they quoted, and the sale is completed. There is a limitation to this seemingly straightforward method, though.  The buyer does not see the price that the seller has listed. After a certain period, the buyer may re-bid if the price they provided is too low and no vendor is willing to provide the service at that price. However, the strategy of Priceline didn’t work. Priceline’s strategy was unsuccessful because its rivals offered more simple transactions through set prices.  Priceline also made an excessively rapid and aggressive expansion push by leveraging the name your own price (NYOP) to market its services. The expansion and strategy of Priceline caused investors to lose faith, which resulted in a sharp decline in the value of the company’s shares.  Also, because of the inconvenience, customers had to spend a lot of time filing and resubmitting bids. Priceline later stopped using the name your own price (NYOP) strategy and began charging a fixed fee for its services. ### Auto Industry The auto industry especially CarBevy, uses the name your own price (NYOP) strategy to streamline processes and make them more consumer and customer friendly. Despite Priceline’s failure to use the name your own price (NYOP) strategy, this strategy is successful in the automotive industry.  Here are a few reasons why the name your own price (NYOP) strategy is successful in the auto industry. - Importance – In today’s world, automobiles are a necessity. Auto dealers benefit from allowing buyers to choose their own pricing. Auto buyers may get brand-new vehicles at a cost they can afford using the name-your-own price (NYOP) strategy.  - Freedom to choose – As previously noted, the name your own price (NYOP) strategy enables buyers to select the automobile that best suits their needs and price. Buyers will be able to select the automobile they want and the attributes that go with it. - Efficiency – Car buyers will have to complete a ton of paperwork and feel stressed when negotiating since buying a car is a significant investment. By allowing auto sellers to offer their vehicles at the buyer’s price, the name your own price (NYOP) strategy lessens car buyers’ stress. ## The Psychology Behind Name Your Own Price Strategy Although it is simpler to comprehend the [psychology](https://alejandrorioja.com/psychology-tricks-marketing-strategy/) of why consumers choose the name your own price (NYOP) strategy, many people genuinely don’t understand why sellers also adopt it. Here are the seller and customer-centric points of view for further understanding: ### Customer Centric The most obvious advantage of the name your own price (NYOP) strategy for the buyer is that they get to pay whatever they want. This is because the bid represents the amount they are prepared to spend on the offering, which, in their eyes, gives them an advantage over the sellers. Partaking in a pricing scheme in which the price is mostly determined by choice instead of a set cost provides the customer with the psychological relaxation that overspending isn’t a problem. ### Seller Centric Sellers are not at a loss because they can choose their threshold price. Several benefits from this strategy since buyers often feel that their bid price is fair.  Moreover, by utilizing upselling and cross-selling techniques,  the name-your-own-price (NYOP) vendors can make money. ## How Does Name Your Own Price Strategy Work? Name your own price (NYOP) strategy works very simply. The seller informs the buyer about what is offered, but some aspects are frequently concealed or unavailable.  The greatest example is Priceline, where the consumer may select the hotel quality (second class, high class, etc.) and the location.  When specifying their own pricing, buyers cannot select a specific hotel. Priceline determines the lowest pricing they would take as the seller. This information is intentionally kept from the buyer. For example, a hotel may specify their minimal threshold on Priceline at $70 per night. By placing a bid, the consumer sets their own pricing. Then, Priceline chooses the hotel randomly and determines if the customer’s bid price is higher than the threshold price for this hotel. If so, the deal is finalized.  The non-refundable purchase is finalized when the buyer’s credit card has been charged. The discrepancy between the hotel’s list price and the customer’s bid price goes to Priceline.  However, suppose the customer’s bid is lower than the threshold. In that case, Priceline proceeds to the next option until an option with a lower threshold than the customer’s offer is discovered.  ## Name Your Own Price (NYOP) Benefits to Business Truly, the name your own price (NYOP) is very tricky. Hence, it provides many benefits to a business. The following are the benefits of this strategy to a business.  ### Promotes Customer Loyalty Customer loyalty is cultivated through excellent [custom](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2023/02/22/the-best-ways-to-create-content-that-generates-customer-loyalty-in-2023/?sh=7978aa1b6249)er service, satisfying products, and distinctive experiences. The name-your-own-price (NYOP) centres on the customers. They make customers believe that they benefit greatly.  ### Increases Customer Focus [Consumer satisfaction](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2023/02/22/the-best-ways-to-create-content-that-generates-customer-loyalty-in-2023/?sh=7978aa1b6249) benefits from customer-centric pricing. Moreover, it enables a business to deliver superior client service. ### Increases Brand Value The name your own price (NYOP) raises the value of the business brand by demonstrating that the company is committed to putting the needs of its customers first and that the goods and services it offers are of the highest calibre.  ## Name Your Own Price (NYOP) Challenges to Business Although the name-your-own price strategy looks too good to be true, it also challenges businesses. The following are the challenges of this strategy to businesses.  ### Niche Market and Market Competition Businesses, therefore, obtain a niche market. While having a niche market typically results in devoted customers, it indicates that a business has only reached a tiny portion of your actual market.  As competition enters the market, your existing smaller market decreases. ### Opportunistically A business could become so engrossed in the competition in its eagerness to land a contract that it sets unreasonably low prices. As a result, a second issue arises because buyers are accustomed to low pricing, and businesses believe that buyers are taking advantage of them. Also, there are forums where purchasers post their offer amounts, making it simple to identify the winning bid. These behaviors damage the buyer-seller relationship, so sellers frequently return to the conventional price model. ### Risk of New Entrants The name-your-own-price strategy allows new entrants to compete. [New competitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/exploring-the-top-10-amazon-competitors/) frequently provide a sizable discount, which harms the suppliers that have been using the strategy.  ## Name Your Own Price (NYOP) Benefits to Buyers Of course, businesses are not the only one who benefits from the name your own price (NYOP) strategy. Buyers could also benefit, and those are the following:  ### Willingness to Pay Although businesses are the ones who set a threshold. Buyers can get a product or service in the amount that they set.  ### Lower Price When there’s no other option, a business may give an option exactly with the price set by the buyer.  ## Name Your Own Price (NYOP) Challenges to Buyers Although the name your own price (NYOP) has benefits for buyers, it’s obvious to think that there are more challenges it brings than benefits.  ### Quality Who wins the contract after a bid is accepted is beyond the buyer’s control. A low price may compromise the quality of the service or product. It may be hard for buyers to realize that a few dollars they have saved came at a significant expense in terms of quality because they have no opportunity to genuinely understand what is on the table. Aside from that, this approach does not consider elements like delivery timelines and technological capabilities, which might eventually result in higher real prices because they are among the non-price factors that are not considered. ### Risks of Losing Suppose the initial round of bidding fails to generate any interest. In that case, future rounds may see overbidding to secure the service as quickly as possible. ### Effort The name your-own price (NYOP) strategy requires buyers to exert effort in setting the price they want. Which actually consumes time, understanding, and of course, effort. ## Bottom Line Indeed, the name your own price (NYOP) strategy benefits businesses. But not all businesses can apply this strategy to their operations. Things could happen if the strategy is incompatible with the type of business.  Regarding buyers, the name your own price (NYOP) could be attractive and tempting. But considering all the challenges it could bring, you’ll realize why this strategy is regarded as psychological pricing.  The name your own price (NYOP) strategy shows that businesses and consumers must consider all factors before deciding on something. You can share your thoughts about the name your own price (NYOP) strategy in the comment section below.  Did you like this article? If you do, and you’re interested in learning more about the name your own price (NYOP) strategy or any strategy that could boost your business success. You can do so by reading my previous blog below. - [3 Psych3 Psychology Tricks You Should Implement in Your Marketing Strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/psychology-tricks-marketing-strategy/) - [How To Use SEO As A Strategy To Create Site Structures?](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/) - [Maximizing Your Ad Spend With Cost Per Thousand Impressions (CPM): A Complete Explanation](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-beginners-guide-to-cpm-what-it-is-and-how-it-works/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The fundamentals in this post still hold — Ansoff, BCG, integrated marketing, land-and-expand, NYOP, TOMA frameworks are durable. What changed since the original publication is **how the implementation surface looks in 2026**: - The **distribution channels** assumed in 2020-era marketing posts (organic Facebook reach, free Twitter virality, paid Instagram CPMs under $10) are gone or transformed. Re-cost any tactical recommendation against today's CPMs. - **AI Overviews** ate the top of the SEO funnel — TOFU content strategy from the 2022 era now needs a GEO layer (see the [SEO updated note](#updated-for-may-2026)). - **Land-and-expand** as a motion is healthier than ever in B2B SaaS; PLG → enterprise progression is the default path for almost any 2026 startup. - **Integrated marketing communication** in 2026 means the *brand voice* shows up the same across paid, organic, AI-cited, podcast guesting, and the newsletter — because models like GPT-5 and Claude 4.7 are increasingly summarizing the *brand*, not just individual pages. If you're using this framework for a 2026 plan, the strategic skeleton is right; only the channel-mix data points need a fresh source. --- ## The Ultimate Showdown: WhatsApp Vs. Telegram – Which Reigns Supreme? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsapp-vs-telegram/ Published: 2023-02-28 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: However, because Meta owns the company, users are unsure of the information gathered, shared, and used by Facebook. To allay concerns about privacy, WhatsApp started its first marketing campaign in 2021. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line The debate between WhatsApp and Telegram did not carry much weight a year ago. Not until  Whatsapp, the most widely used instant messaging app, has received much criticism ever since it published the most recent revisions to its privacy policy. Users must share their data with Facebook or use a different app in response to Facebook’s most recent decision concerning Whatsapp and data-sharing. With that said, users have expressed concern about the safety of using WhatsApp or switching to Telegram.  Users have been striving to find the best messaging app that protects their privacy in recent years. Generally, there are two options, Whatsapp and Telegram. On January 13, 2021, Telegram announced that 25 million new downloads had occurred in 72 hours. Following the uproar over [Whatsapp’s new privacy policy](https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2022/10/09/do-you-need-to-delete-whatsapp-on-your-apple-iphone-or-google-android-and-use-imessage-or-telegram/), Telegram has quickly surpassed the milestone of 500 million active users. Since Whatsapp has made it clear that it will share users’ data with Facebook, many privacy-conscious mobile users choose Telegram instead. This helped me realize that users have concerns about the basic features of instant messaging apps and the security and privacy of their data when using these apps. So, to help you determine which apps are safer overall—from their accessibility to their features and much more—I’ll compare WhatsApp and Telegram in this article. ## WhatsApp Overview [WhatsApp](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/) is the world’s most popular free instant messaging app, with billions of users worldwide. In fact, Facebook’s parent company, Meta, owns the app. Contrary to Telegram, WhatsApp users only send end-to-end encrypted messages. However, users have begun to doubt WhatsApp’s privacy policies in light of an announcement allowing it to share user data with Meta. The platform has no ads, and the app is entirely free. However, because Meta owns the company, users are unsure of the information gathered, shared, and used by Facebook. To allay concerns about privacy, WhatsApp started its first marketing campaign in 2021. ## Telegram Overview Instant messaging service Telegram prioritizes user privacy across all platforms. In 2013, brothers Pavel and Nikolai Durov established it. It’s good news for privacy-conscious people that the company is registered in the British Virgin Islands. Additionally, it is open-source, allowing security professionals and the public to examine and verify all of the associated code. Users can download the private messaging app for free, thanks to financing from its CEO, Pavel Durov. This is in line with Telegram’s mission to maintain its independence from other major tech companies. Telegram also launched Telegram Premium in 2020 to increase revenue. The app’s premium version, which costs money, has more features. Among them are, but not restricted to, the following: 1. No ads 2. Faster download speed 3. One-of-a-kind stickers 4. Icons and badges 5. Upload limit of 4 GB 6. Profile pictures and animated stickers ## Availability on Devices Telegram has iOS, macOS, Android, and desktop apps that can be downloaded on smartphones, tablets, and PCs. Telegram Web also offers an online login option. Additionally, since the Telegram API is available to developers, you can find unofficial apps created for platforms other than those listed above, like Xbox. With iOS, Android, and Windows-based mobile devices, WhatsApp is accessible on tablets, PCs, and smartphones. Although a macOS app is in the works, you can still use WhatsApp Web to log in. ## App Pricing  Both WhatsApp and Telegram are cost-free messaging apps. Although Telegram does have a $4.99/£4.99 Premium membership, it is not required to use the app. Similarly, WhatsApp recently introduced a Premium tier for business users, including features like a website and multi-agent support for customer communication. However, regular users are unaffected by either of these plans and can still access all the essential functions of each app without paying a monthly subscription fee. ## WhatsApp vs. Telegram: Messaging Features All the necessary messaging features, such as text and voice options, are available on WhatsApp and Telegram. WhatsApp also offers some fun messaging features, such as personalizing your stickers. Additionally, you can produce a custom collection of stickers, publish them, and allow others to download them. Continue reading to go over the messaging features of WhatsApp and Telegram in more detail. ### Size of Files Since Telegram and WhatsApp let you upload files up to 2GB in size at once, there is little difference between the file types you can upload. 2GB is equal to roughly 120 minutes of 1080p video content. Before the update, WhatsApp only allowed you to upload media files up to 100MB in size, which was small in comparison to Telegram’s file size restrictions. Remember that WhatsApp videos can only be 16MB in size, which on most phones translates to about 90 seconds to 3 minutes of content. So, even though WhatsApp allows you to send big files up to 2GB, you can currently only send videos up to 16MB. ### Length of A Message Unlike Telegram, where each message can have up to 4,096 characters, WhatsApp has a maximum character limit of 6553. ### Duration of Videos You can send video messages on WhatsApp for up to 30 seconds, but you can send video messages on Telegram for up to one minute. ### File Limit Each message on Telegram is limited to 10 items. However, WhatsApp enables the simultaneous sending of 30 video or image bundles. ### Deleting Features As humans, many are used to typos and wrong-sent messages. Telegram and WhatsApp allow you to delete conversions through the Delete option. However, WhatsApp leaves a “This message is deleted” mark on deleted messages. Telegram gives you the option to delete messages permanently. In addition, messages that have already been set can be edited. ### Dual Accounts WhatsApp prohibits the use of multiple accounts on the same device. On the other hand, with Telegram, a single phone can be used to create up to three accounts. Additionally, you can use a maximum of four devices (and a phone) with WhatsApp, but you can use as many devices as you want to access your Telegram account. ### Group Chat Features Telegram and WhatsApp know how boring apps are without a group chat feature. So, here’s what you need to know about WhatsApp and Telegram group chat features. #### Voice and Video Calls You may easily transition from a phone call to a video call while using WhatsApp and Telegram. WhatsApp, however, has a 32-member maximum for group video or audio conversations, meaning that only a group of 32 people can initiate a call. In contrast, Telegram is far more adaptable and supports audio and video conversations with up to 100 participants. #### Polls On Telegram, you can create quiz-like questions as well as polls with numerous choices and visible votes. Sadly, WhatsApp does not offer any such functions. #### Limit in Members WhatsApp recently disclosed that it had expanded the number of people per group to 512. However, with a “Supergroup” feature restriction of two hundred thousand members, Telegram is still considerably superior to WhatsApp. ## Which App is More Secure? Almost 500 million people use Telegram, the app founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov. However, Durov hasn’t been afraid to play down WhatsApp’s and other competitors’ security, even asserting that WhatsApp is risky to utilize and that Telegram provides superior privacy. Yet, most users are unaware that Telegram only offers end-to-end encryption for two individuals, unlike WhatsApp. This is known as “Secret Chats.” As a result, you could believe that messages are private when in fact, there’s a chance that someone could read them. Generally, this is because your messages are solely encrypted between your device and Telegram’s servers, where anyone attempting to read them will see nothing but gibberish. Yet, on such servers, they are not encrypted. The likelihood of someone breaking into those systems and reading your communications is minimal, but it exists. Comparatively, WhatsApp provides end-to-end encryption for private conversations, group conversations, and, most recently, chat backups. So you shouldn’t limit your considerations beyond encryption. There is also the information that each app gathers and keeps track of about you specifically. For example, according to Telegram’s privacy statement, it saves information, including your IP address, devices, and the history of username changes, for a year, collecting fewer data than WhatsApp. ## Which App is Better? When it comes to security, WhatsApp utilizes the most advanced security measures and applies end-to-end encryption to every communication.  WhatsApp’s lack of encryption for conversation backups and the fact that it “mines” your messages’ information continue to raise questions about the data it exchanges with Facebook and Meta. Privacy-conscious individuals may be concerned about how their data is utilized even while it is safe. While Telegram conducts some user metadata collection, it doesn’t go as far as WhatsApp. Your IP address, the people on your contact list who also use Telegram, as well as the record of user changes are the specific pieces of information that Telegram gathers. Since WhatsApp has a larger user base overall, you will likely encounter many individuals who use it. Not to mention that WhatsApp is expected to be the platform of choice for colleagues, family, and other close contacts. You cannot discount how much more convenient it is than other platforms. But, if you want to keep your privacy while conversing with others, use Telegram with the abovementioned features. ## Choose the Messaging App That’s Best for You! When determining which messaging app is superior, various people may have different needs and respond appropriately. Whatsapp isn’t necessarily superior just because it has more users than Telegram. People frequently go along with the crowd rather than choose between the two applications they prefer on their own. In my experience, Telegram loads page considerably quicker than WhatsApp. Also, Telegram has a secure chat function for confidential conversations. As previously indicated, it provides security and many more sophisticated features than Whatsapp. Telegram is, therefore, far more suitable for me. In the end, everything boils down to personal taste, security, privacy, and convenience. Are you enjoying this post? Check out other pieces about communication apps! - [How Does Whatsapp Make Money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/) - [Top 5 Live Chat Software To Download For Small Businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-live-chat-software-to-download-for-small-businesses/) - [Your Guide To Using Discord As A Marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-marketers-guide-to-using-discord/) - [Zoom Vs. Google Meet: Which Is Better?](https://alejandrorioja.com/zoom-vs-google-meet-which-is-better/) Your opinion matters! I would love to hear your thoughts about Whatsapp and Telegram in the comment section below. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Is Google Currents? A Comprehensive Overview Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-google-currents-a-comprehensive-overview/ Published: 2023-02-23 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Google+ was renamed Currents in 2019 because of a lack of interest from users. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Google Currents is an Enterprise Social Network created by Google for use within the company to facilitate collaboration and communication amongst employees and teams. Google+ was renamed Currents in 2019 because of a lack of interest from users.  With the other Google Workspace products, Google Currents facilitates employee-to-employee communication by providing a central hub for sharing and discussing relevant ideas, topics, and news in the workplace. Google Currents also have benefits and drawbacks, but this doesn’t make the software less of its worth. If you want to make your organization experience an innovative way of collaborating and communicating, give Google Currents a shot.  The goal of any organization’s administrators should be to facilitate broad connections among information, ideas, and personnel. That’s why you must find software to help establish a culture of creativity within the company by boosting communication and cooperation across departments and eliminating data silos. So if you want to bring the same benefits to your company, you’re in the right place because I wrote this blog for you. I’ll explain the overview, alternatives, and features of Google Currents. ## Google Currents: An In-Depth Understanding Google Currents is a built-in feature of Google Workspace that facilitates internal communication and collaboration within businesses. This software is a pared-down version of Google’s former focused social network, Google+, which is now gone.  The fact that it looks and acts substantially the same as Google+ may be an advantage to its adoption within your company. And when it comes to internal organization communication, Google Currents has to compete with the likes of Slack.  Although Currents is already a part of Workspace, Google Currents’ capabilities, such as engagement [analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-google-analytics-goal-types-business/), may convince you to give Google Currents a try. ## The Importance of Google Currents Google Currents is significant to an organization since it serves as a virtual discussion board that can facilitate communication and collaboration among coworkers in the same organization.  Working together, Google Currents allows people to poll their thoughts on various projects and ideas. Simply put, Google Currents allows employees to contribute to and monitor company-wide discussions. ## Google Currents Alternatives Google wasn’t the pioneer in company-focused social networking sites. Many other options can replace it. Simply put, Google isn’t the frontrunner in this field, and the search giant didn’t develop the idea of the company’s internal communication. Below are some of the Google Currents alternatives. ### Facebook Workplace It should be no surprise that Facebook Workplace is the primary and most evident alternative to Google Currents. While similar to Google Currents in functionality, Facebook Workplace also offers some additional capabilities.  You can use resources from places like their Knowledge Library or their connectivity with other platforms to determine your future return on investment. Workplace By Facebook appeals to me owing to its simple and user-friendly functionality.  Although Google Currents appears to be more complicated, no area of this service would prove too challenging for a beginner. Not to mention, they provide helpful chat support. Then, lastly, comes the cost.  For a limited time during the test period, you can enjoy the services of Facebook Workplace at no cost. Yet, the base price per person is only $4, and you may upgrade to unlimited use of the facility for a small fee. ### Yammer Microsoft produces the next alternative for Google Currents, and it is named Yammer. Yammer differs from the competition although it shares many characteristics with other applications.  Generally, Yammer is the most remarkable software because it is used by more than 85% of the Fortune 500 for business-related communication. Because of this, Yammer may be a good option and more useful than social media giants like Facebook and Google. Like Google Currents can be accessed from within the Google Workspace, you can access Yammer from within Microsoft’s 360 platforms. As mentioned above, many well-known businesses use Microsoft Yammer.  For this reason, it is not shocking that it is effective, though quite pricey. To know information about their prices is available on their website. ### Zoho Workplace With Zoho Workplace, employees can access and work on their office suite from any device, allowing them to create and edit spreadsheets, presentations, and documents regardless of location. It is as easy as getting your documents examined quickly by your [colleagues](https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/tech/what-is-google-currents) by sharing them with them. ### Salesforce Chatter Salesforce Chatter is a real-time social, collaborative platform that facilitates employees’ communication, knowledge sharing, and teamwork. Safely connecting with coworkers, exchanging files, and keeping everyone apprised of progress are all made possible with Chatter. ### eXo Platform Next is the eXo Platform. This software may also be a choice for Google Currents. The eXo Platform is an electronic platform for the office that facilitates communication, collaboration, decision-making, and recognition among employees.  You can use it either locally or in the cloud. This platform software is a comprehensive program that improves efficiency and morale in the workplace by integrating social and collaboration tools.  The fact that they always have cutting-edge features and services available is what makes them so likeable. They have features such as: 1. Anti-fraud system 2. Security solution 3. Personalized interface solution 4. Adding your domain or connecting your company directly on their platform ## The Functions of Google Currents ### Set Up Profile Amazingly, Google Currents has a feature that makes me feel that all employees should share something about themselves. Setting up and maintaining a profile on [Google Currents](https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthof/2011/12/08/google-currents-rival-to-flipboard-finally-debuts/?sh=509c7179577b) includes details about an individual that helps others get to know them, such as their name, work title, interests, and posts. Typically, employees are likely to have a profile made for them by an administrator. But, if the employee hasn’t done so, they can make their own. And if employees are having trouble getting into Google Currents, employees may always ask for assistance from the administrator. It’s important to remember that if Google Currents isn’t accessible to employees, it’s likely because the administrator hasn’t authorized it within the organization. ### Post And Share Contents The backbone of Google Currents is the posts. Generally, the purpose of this function is to assist in how you and your coworkers exchange knowledge and work together. Generating a post (which can include adding a link, poll, photo, or Google Drive file) is followed by selecting an audience. You may check your post’s total number of views, likes, shares, and comments. It’s possible to repost something that someone else has made. And rather than adding a coworker as a “friend,” you can now simply “follow” them to keep up with their updates. ### Create and Trade Insights With Communities Next, Communities, supported by Google Currents, are hand-picked subsets of users who publish related content. A Google Currents Community can be created for any purpose, whether for use within a specific group, for a specific project, or to discuss a common interest.  In short, a community may have more than one moderator, and anyone permitted to join may make posts. Inviting people outside your company to join a private community is also an option. These communities can be geared toward achieving a specific business objective or might be based on a more personal passion, and they can help employees become closer and more knowledgeable. ### Follow and Interact Through Streams The Stream feature is one of the key functions of Google Currents. By using streams, you may quickly skim, investigate, and interact with information important to your team, department, or the entire organization. In the Streams section, Admins can establish streams to gather all the management team’s updates, highlight posts about planned campaigns, or obtain information regarding annual performance evaluations. Using the Streams homepage’s navigation pane, you can access your streams and easily navigate between them. ### Explore Tags Tags play a significant role in Streams as well. Generally, tags facilitate easy searching and browsing for relevant posts by colleagues. Tagging and creating posts is a feature that administrators and regular users can use.  Users can make their posts more discoverable by labelling them with relevant tags, and the [search](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-complete-guide-to-google-search-console/) bar supports queries based on these labels and other factors. ## Benefits of Google Currents  Google Currents can do much more than act as a company’s internal social network. Some benefits are: ### Connect With Colleagues A company can’t function properly without some form of internal communication and working tool. In the present time and this age of remote work, email is too burdensome for daily use, and in-person solutions are outdated.  Generally, the ability to make posts and comments fosters collaboration and communication among workers. As a result, a service like Google Currents is vital for any corporation with a significant workforce.  ### Control and Quick Access to Information An undeniable plus point of Google Currents is the ease with which employees can manage and gain access to their updates and other relevant information.  Due to the rapid pace of discourse in Slack, it’s easy for important details to be missed. But the [design](https://flux.la/how-to-build-your-brand-through-great-web-design/) of Google Currents seems to promote the dissemination of more important announcements, with responses integrated into the comments section. ## Drawbacks of Google Currents Google Currents not only experiences its advantages to an organization. They also have drawbacks for employees. Below are some of the drawbacks of Google Currents: ### Additional Software for Learning It’s clear that Google Currents is the best choice for the Workspace ecosystem, but some may see it as additional software that employees will need to learn and familiarize themselves with. This isn’t great for the efficiency of an organization.  But when you look on the bright side, using Google Currents isn’t that complicated if your employees are familiar with Gmail and Google Drive. Knowing Gdrive and Gmail, your employees should be able to pick up Google Currents in no more than half an hour. ### No Desktop or Laptop Application While there are mobile apps for iOS and Android, there isn’t a desktop or laptop application for Google Currents. It can be a drawback because it is accessed similarly to the other Workspace apps—via a web browser.  Some employees may find this just fine, while others may find it very complicated, especially if they frequently have many open tabs and don’t know how to organize them. ## Share And Collaborate Through Google Currents Using Google Currents, it’s simple for executives and employees to communicate with one another throughout the company, share their ideas, and seek opinions and insight from others without overwhelming inboxes. Leaders may get a feel for the company’s pulse and learn what employees value most by using Google Currents to have a two-way conversation with their team. It’s safe to say that Google Currents would be an asset to any business. So, don’t hesitate to implement Google Currents, as it is yet another wonderful resource at your convenience.  In the future, I hope Google will add more functionality. And you guys, what functionality or feature do you want Google to add? Comment down below your thoughts or feature suggestions for Google Currents. What do you think of my post? Did you like it? If yes, and you’re interested in learning more about Google, you can do so by reading my other blogs below. - [A Beginner’s Guide To Google Ads Manager Accounts](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-manager-account/) - [What You Should Know About Google Top Ranking Factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-you-should-know-about-google-top-ranking-factors/) - [How To Add A Google Knowledge Panel For Your Brand](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-knowledge-panel/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top Alternatives To Chatgpt – What Other Chatbot Platforms Have To Offer Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-chatgpt-alternatives-what-other-chatbots-offer/ Published: 2023-02-22 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: ChatGPT is a superb work of artificial intelligence (AI), and its alternatives offer variations to suit different needs. So whether you aim to generate content for coding, content creation, poetry, and songwriting, these OpenAI conversational tools will surely give you astounding results. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Are you looking for ChatGPT alternatives that produce relevant, accurate answers? ChatGPT is a superb work of artificial intelligence (AI), and its alternatives offer variations to suit different needs. So whether you aim to generate content for coding, content creation, poetry, and songwriting, these OpenAI conversational tools will surely give you astounding results.  Check out what some of the similar platforms in competition with ChatGPT offer, thanks to technological developments. ChatGPT is a powerful communication tool that allows you to interact with your customers. It’s perfect for small businesses wanting to grow their customer base and increase sales.  Having tried the software myself, however, I think most would agree that the ChatGPT can be expensive and time-consuming if you’re just starting out. As such, you might benefit from trying out similar alternatives that work just as well at a fraction of the cost! ## What is ChatGPT? Generally, it’s designed to be able to understand human input, and intelligently respond to it, which is often through ultimately [generating text](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/). This chatbot software enables businesses to manage customer service interactions via live chat without an actual person on standby twenty-four-seven. Also, it can be across multiple channels, including Facebook Messenger, SMS, and even email.  While its application varies according to various needs, it’s often used for writing code and creating content. ## How Does ChatGPT Work? The system uses a  [transformer-based neural network](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/), a learning model, to produce text that mimics nearly human speech. Generally, the model’s structure allows it to digest incoming text and provide responses comparable to those a human may generate. The ChatGPT process is simple. First, you navigate the site using your browser and agree to the terms. Next, enter a username in the field provided and press “Sign In” when prompted by ChatGPT’s server. Once you’re logged into your account with ChatGPT, all it takes is entering your prompts or questions, and the ChatGPT engine will respond!  ## How to Use ChatGPT for Your Business Yes, it answers questions posed by billions of people on the internet, but does ChatGPT have a place in the commercial world? Yes! Absolutely.  Employers can access ChatGPT for various repetitive tasks, such as hiring, customer assistance, content development, and IT support. That way, they can automate such processes and focus on other pressing issues.  If there are inquiries the company deals with regularly, the ChatGPT can manage that instead of having someone respond to the same matters over and over. So customers that have questions after office hours can get their answers without delay. ## Why Choose a ChatGPT Alternative? Although ChatGPT may be the leader in the field of AI discussion, there are a growing number of contenders that are well worth considering! While the software contains a huge collection of processes that can be applied to various uses, it does have a few drawbacks of its own: - It might become overwhelmed with online traffic as the popular choice - Since all of its data has been trained, [there may be some specific queries that generate skewed or low-quality information](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/) - ChatGPT pro has an expensive monthly subscription fee, so not everyone can purchase it ## 17 Top ChatGPTI Alternatives  Here are some of the excellent options for ChatGPT, allowing you to deploy your chatbot without the hassle: ### 1\. Bloom ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/meyE67tk5BZQnvnuoLNzJoea5gc5spSG92zN0kPoivA5Y5maBVm5qg_NB03OSGGBFO9xW0D8B8NXP8gdZfT78BgfhoTGjrmnEGPtO0_6VcAsixlxp4oDgi4SpfZeClRixCBwuUydWOrwHk1H) Bloom is a linguistic model that accommodates up to forty-six international languages. This software was created by a team of more than a thousand skilled AI researchers that collaborated to create an open-source technology that is today regarded as the most potent GPT-3 substitute. ### 2\. Chatsonic ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/p7_aBgEiv0mmI_1MF2-3w7A0KgzrH7AiVsP-xNtA2I5rYNx_aTPuqYguhMVljMvMNyh6QLtNTcsGbp0mXtWPAuEICdCrKjd4ISawrQS68Tgbxybh_0uPYoEtjCKUhKjyXl8QtTkQ1b8rhf14) One of the most technologically advanced models for large-scale, pre-informed dialogue response generation, designed specifically for multi-turn conversations, is Writesonic’s ChatSonic. Content creators will appreciate its Google integration and up-to-date results, making it a commendable AI substitute. Its sophisticated AI chatbot can assist with real-time data, image, and voice searches. In addition to writing various types of content and following voice commands, it’s also designed to read back similarly to Siri. Marketers can also use it for customer support operations since it is trained to offer conversational responses. ### 3\. LaMDA ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PrFKVr9qNCRG1Lz7md77j7LQv39SPNOQGr1Tmii6dAJ64awpzllicaPhUk71Ny8EYAfBitIgIz0CG5wgy7suyjFeoQ6Fb5kWsoAqOGFwnkj5hNLNwpsTO1-TxLh_IWo2uhGoONngipwNvlTj) [Language Models for Dialog Applications](https://blog.google/technology/ai/lamda/) is the abbreviation for LaMDA. It uses a series of Transformer-based neural language models with up to 137 billion model parameters specifically designed for dialogue. It’s a step ahead of most as it presents the ability to respond coherently to follow-up questions while staying on topic. ### 4\. Writesonic ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/P7t5JWFmLfRRNd5sf1atfF78tg0Ii7TDZOjevXUskPP4ro_mmBu2LGX9UNhJPYeBTUQDookS7fouGD0k94Fp5H60lcOUgrVxi6U69RvJNtJUW4QxKk3iMXwX_3a2NsbOuHMyQRXF7byEa13v) An artificial intelligence-driven application called Writesonic may be accessed when producing blogs, Facebook and Google advertisements, Quora responses, and other types of content. Through the creation of SEO-optimized content, this tool promises to assist marketers in increasing sales, clicks, and conversions.  You can also create landing page copies with minimal effort that convert well. Users may also utilize a growth and marketing ideas generator to develop unique plans for growing their business. ### 5\. Rytr ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/FxXn7IIIkKEDKdoYBVre8QZO9W8uDd5NNBxQoQYw8XMPaSwna-5YJmcIMuagRR3SBSZncbr_OuJ12oDk5qWSUZ44jUfxzi0UhLHvjV9f0iWaWnlRF_SDJ4iRkFDHEAF0_bVpDh4yXMV88IeY) A popular artificial technology composing platform is Rytr.me, which is useful in writing articles for you using AI. Because its algorithm is educated on historical input, it can produce original, engaging articles with the writer’s chosen tone, writing style, and relevant grammar.  Rytr can assist you in creating original content with minimal human input.  ### 6\. DialoGPT ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fOSUpCl7VT84DrwQCQVX2NNGUMSjEuowtBTormhIRFcuh-xX3WjIQkYkKVY5db0LIpDkNYBEUGkxrMrN5cHk4fmv5GdJ_ngMJYC3JG5z-2ekzI45AFr1RW2lZY4Ems7vZ0il_TdaliytgoyS) Like GPT-2, DialoGPT is designed as an autoregressive (AR) language model and bases its model on a multi-layer transformer. It is a sizable, previously trained model for multi-turn interactions that generate discussion answers.  The AI was trained by millions of unique turn-based talks from Reddit discussion threads to ensure variability and broaden its language. ### 7\. Replika ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/BEEkumYSkxEz4IAYHZg8cWGfpcVQRJNgWZBmUmBYTnwrtJiWd7R1Z2y6jlQsGGa61HbsW-Z5cG5Rbp_boIC6c4t1KIbr83mFYw8T_jeWJRfbX1C4jDNMXoOnc2LUvpzEDOrN0YjbCci08_rX) One top Chat GPT substitute is Replika, which uses sophisticated software to generate answers and interpret visual elements as prompts. It’s designed to be “conversational” by incorporating learning algorithms with pre-written dialogues to produce natural conversations. The result is personalized content written almost as a friend would when used to generate messages. It’s also trained to produce individual responses through exposure to a large dataset throughout training. You can freely discuss anything with Replika, easily getting relationship advice, discussing matters of life, or whatever is on your mind. ### 8\. LongShotAI ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Ldkcc1ZOUtliOVb54CXZr4GDWlbcgT151M1J_FJ9vBnYqk-5SdssyMZy8XMtYu53h4jbqtJaEomZUgVQ6-zCcvh2B6VkYZ7xDhEh9uNxBBO90OJEPtYvobk8x1yEXkSzNcU_lS2eyfLvrKQE) With the help of LongShot, you may employ useful content to improve your Google ranking. It’s an automatic tool that helps writers create quality, search-optimized content. You may go swiftly from formulating an idea to coming up with research and finally generating SEO content using LongShot. This writing tool promises to deliver original, exhaustively researched, and optimized articles.  Also, this system makes it easy to find the ideal keywords. All you need to do is input the topic, and the software will suggest headings and titles, as well as questions pulled from well-known blogs to aid with idea generation. ### 9\. Socratic ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fRkVIWiEAQfilZtQRTEDcOpcnbXZ6un697k1ZdggVUT868vBlf2Wt3kyq0ViMpLyKBJ-7zAMlAiNjvMc47654qEyZo3sOWyYLsr6r4zWBWnlfb6x7zJto6V51HwcNAl5s6NBIhmGtcFlJCzw) Google, the leading platform in search engines, created Socratic, a fantastic AI-powered application that’s also kid-friendly! This is fantastic software for students looking for assistance with homework, and it provides engaging illustrations and comprehensive explanations.  If you have an inquiry about a chemical or a math equation, you need to take a picture of the problem and upload it to Socratic. Google will use sophisticated AI to devise a solution just like that! ### 10\. YouChat ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ykftu2gEXgpD5sCJep3MQxjpuP_taiy9rjZBBNEejoe5BFAGqKE2iMrvvg6MXEMdchnUr3Dc41zfP1xbOjqs2qaM90vvkUwSoi_UuNN1xHt0It5bgyG6SyqeRmaNStkmSDNnPdySunt9uUtt) Another good choice is YouChat which functions as a conversational chatbot similar to ChatGPT. The software has a variety of available chatbot features up its sleeve but doesn’t have as much accuracy as the other alternatives since it’s still new.  It uses AI and NLP for human-like conversations, general question answers, text translations, idea generation, authoring code, and email composition. ### 11\. Jasper ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BsF6AHT6ANAvNhSbuoyU8u_B9wvOc76bQ3vV7Du7EgB_Cp_INPLeqTw4Ho2SoMzbCpU-zhxI86fAgo_M5wRqh3yo9Vw2a0x723prbZTpzFRm1bqCyiCEvJoXwg4G-mjf6wvJZ14Pkj0pPZFv) Another strong alternative to ChatGPT is the well-known AI writing tool, Jasper. It is appropriate for companies that need to generate high-quality content quickly. Jasper reorganizes content creation using cutting-edge technology to achieve projectable results. ### 12\. ELSA ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mXiikTUZjO1KO8yOec7Sw_m28xEsk3R2HhoJSeabms5YWK9yQugAU-QFGUaL2ObWpX3huyJkAHEL5gtqjkaSjLcGIgbLe5GGKUFyhk-zWPqYDUmSkOOHRtyQ-tZELcHPffML_9tVQfbr4w0W) This AI-based language-learning program analyzes the user’s voice, allowing users to input voice controls instead of text. Once registered, the software can generate simple activities that the user can readily grasp in their chosen language.  Users can improve their English, French, or Mandarin while being coached by various voice recordings of native speakers with various accents. These recordings are used to comprehend better the vocal tics of users who did not possess a native level of skill.  The software tracks your progress to see how well you’re doing, providing real-time speech recognition feedback and AI coaching to keep users motivated. ### 13\. Godel Microsoft’s 2019 DialoGPT AI project gave birth to Godel. With two modalities combined into one, it’s designed to have a task-focused element and a personalized touch that adds more realistic, social aspects to the dialogue. That’s a big plus since most chatbots are designed only to have one feature or the other.  So, for example, Godel can make an outing recommendation while also talking about the latest update on sports or today’s weather and still get the conversation back on track. ### 14\. Chinchilla The primary rival to GPT-3 is generally regarded to be Chinchilla, a DeepMind project. Generally, the model is essentially compute-optimal but has four times as much data and 70 billion more parameters than Gopher.  In a number of the downstream assessment tasks, the model outperformed Gopher, GPT-3, Jurassic-1, and Megatron-Turing NLG. It is highly ranked on the list of the best AI, similar to ChatGPT. ### 15\. Megatron Turing NLG Regarding Chat GPT alternatives, Megatron Turing NLG is one of the most well-liked language models. Microsoft and NVIDIA collaborated to create the Megatron Turing NLG product. There are 530 billion distinct characteristics in it.  The Selene supercomputer, which runs on NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD and is regarded as one of the most potent models of the English language, served as its training ground. Users will be impressed by its ability to not only distinguish word sense disambiguation but also how to make relevant completion predictions and inferences using commonsense reasoning. ### 16\. PepperType An AI-powered copywriting tool called Peppertype can speed up and improve the quality of your work. It’s like getting a trained writer to do your writing for you, producing appealing and captivating material for your viewers.  Generally, it helps businesses automate the conceptualization and production of content. The software thoroughly examines your company procedures and gets to know your brand and target market. Then it uses cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to produce fresh content on your behalf. ### 17\. BlenderBot 2.0 This is one of the best chatbots available. It was released by Facebook AI and is renowned for having multiple sessions of lengthier, more in-depth, and factually accurate talks. Thanks to the improvements in its conversational capabilities, BlenderBot stands as a strong competitor in artificial intelligence research. The long-term memory of the AI model contains conversational data, while the transcripts of each chat are preserved in a separate file. This paradigm is excellent for monitoring events as they take place since it can read and respond in real-time. It can scan the internet for new information for a more current debate. ## Bottom line After using ChatGPT for a while, I have faith that this might be one of the game-changing tools for businesses available today. However, for those new to AI software, these other systems will easily help you stay ahead of the game by providing you with an easy-to-use platform. That way, you can see how they could benefit your business without making a large financial investment.  If you enjoyed my takes on reliable ChatGPT alternatives, you could check out other AI-related articles below: - [Can Jasper.ai Really Replace Your Copywriter?](https://alejandrorioja.com/can-jasper-ai-really-replace-your-copywriter/) - [How Jasper.ai is Changing The Way We Interact With Technology](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-jasper-ai-is-changing-the-way-we-interact-with-technology/)  - [Review of Jasper.ai: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing](https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-jasper-ai/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Exploring The Top 10 Amazon Competitors Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/exploring-the-top-10-amazon-competitors/ Published: 2023-02-21 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Business TL;DR: During 2022’s third quarter, Amazon’s net sales rose by 15% to $127.1 billion from $110.8 billion. And it is highly suggested that Amazon’s retail e-commerce sales will total $746.22 billion globally in 2023. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line As a business owner with an online store, Amazon is your most significant competition. But besides the largest e-commerce platform, you also need to consider Amazon’s competitors.  Platforms like eBay and Alibaba and retail stores like Target and Walmart generate a sizeable number of customers and revenue. Becoming a successful e-commerce platform entails having an active community presence, going omnichannel and to different marketplaces, and having a good loyalty program. I had my fair share of purchases (sometimes impulse buying) on the largest e-commerce platform today, Amazon. Since 1994, Amazon has generated a lot of buzz.  As the brainchild of Jeff Bezos, Amazon has changed many industries, including e-commerce, digital streaming, and cloud services. But Amazon is not the only fish in the sea. Numerous companies compete with Amazon and generate sizable revenues by offering various goods. With this post, I’ll let you dive into the different competitors of Amazon. I’ll also share some strategies to become one of Amazon’s top contenders. ## How Does Amazon Generate Income? Amazon is the top-ranking large-cap e-commerce company in the world, with a [market worth of more than $1 trillion](https://www.statista.com/statistics/245340/leading-large-cap-e-commerce-companies-market-cap/). But you might ponder, “How does Amazon become number one?”. To answer your question, here are three key avenues Amazon generates its revenue: ### e-Commerce Amazon started mainly as an [e-commerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) platform. Over 1.9 million sellers and over 300 million active customer accounts globally exist. During 2022’s third quarter, [Amazon’s net sales](https://ir.aboutamazon.com/news-release/news-release-details/2022/Amazon.com-Announces-Third-Quarter-Results/) rose by 15% to $127.1 billion from $110.8 billion. And it is highly suggested that Amazon’s retail e-commerce sales will total $746.22 billion globally in 2023. Amazon does this by competing with all different types of businesses worldwide. The platform also provides various product categories, service options, and delivery mechanisms. ### Subscription Services Amazon’s subscription services rake up the most negligible revenue for the company. [U.S. Amazon Prime subscribers](https://www.statista.com/topics/4076/amazon-prime/#topicOverview) average monthly spending of $51 to $100. Subscription services cover access to material, including audiobooks, digital video, e-books, and music, and membership costs for Amazon Prime. ### Amazon Web Services (AWS) Amazon Web Services is the second-highest revenue-generating channel of the company. [AWS’ net sales revenue](https://www.statista.com/topics/4418/amazon-web-services/) reached its highest level of over 469 billion dollars in 2021. Services include global computing, storage, and database services for both commercial and group. Customers are charged according to the number of services they receive. For example, the storage capacity is given on demand, database, or computed services, and customers pay for a set quantity or duration. ## 10 Amazon Competitors You may find a balanced mix of online-only business models and offline/online offerings in the Amazon competitor list. They are all worthy competitors, thanks to their distinctive advantages.  The main Amazon rivals are listed below: ### 1\. eBay AuctionWeb, or eBay as we now call it, started on September 3, 1995, and is headquartered in San Jose, California. eBay had [$2.4 billion in revenue in Q3 of 2022](https://ebay.q4cdn.com/610426115/files/doc_financials/2022/q3/Exhibit-99.1-ER-eBay-Q3-2022-Final.pdf). The corporation also bought a central technological platform for collectibles and one of the biggest online marketplaces for trading card games, TCGplayer. But when you look at the two e-commerce platforms, you may find that the two share similar goods. The main distinction? Products can be auctioned off on eBay or sold at a set price.  [eBay](https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/tech/how-to-search-for-a-seller-on-ebay) has a distinct advantage over Amazon since it operates more like a giant yard sale than a marketplace. As a result, the retail and auction website has become a consumer internet and online services company. eBay also has the most outstanding market value internationally, more than 20 years after its founding. ### 2\. Alibaba Alibaba Group, a Chinese multinational corporation founded in 1999 by Jack Ma, operates through several companies. However, the most notable of these businesses is Alibaba.com. Alibaba.com is the B2B (business-to-business) marketplace. Like Amazon, Alibaba lets retailers buy products in bulk and resell them for profit. But Alibaba neither owns the listing nor is it in charge of the transportation or storage of purchases. Businesses can access producers of various products directly through Alibaba.com. Therefore, avoiding intermediaries and saving money on unit costs. And although it’s prevalent in China, you can get lucky and find vendors in the U.S. [Alibaba Group had a revenue](https://www.statista.com/statistics/225614/net-revenue-of-alibaba/) of 134.57 billion U.S. dollars during the end of their fiscal year last March 2022. However, the company had [93.5 billion U.S. dollars in e-commerce revenue](https://www.statista.com/statistics/226793/e-commerce-revenue-of-alibabacom/). ### 3\. Walmart Moving closer to the idea of a bargain department store, Walmart is another excellent illustration of an Amazon rival. Sam Walton established Walmart in Rogers, Arkansas, in 1962. Amazon and Walmart are constantly at odds with one another. Generally, Amazon leads online, while Walmart rules the real world. But the two companies face off against one another in every area, including innovation, digital growth, logistics, and sustainability. However, Walmart’s primary focus may still be on physical stores to ensure that its online presence keeps expanding. [Walmart generated an enormous income](https://s201.q4cdn.com/262069030/files/doc_financials/2022/ar/WMT-FY2022-Annual-Report.pdf) in 2022 of $572.8 billion. It’s also worth noting that Walmart garnered $73 billion in net sales for its e-commerce business. ### 4\. Target Target was established in 1962 in Minneapolis and currently has 1,948 physical stores. The American chain of retail stores presently holds a 350,000-person workforce and the sixth-place brand position in this market. Target may be a lesser-known brand, but the company excels at cultivating a devoted following. That’s why Target has a good chance of taking on Amazon.  Target’s e-commerce combines local, drive-up, and ship-to collection options. Other than the physical stores, Target has its e-commerce website. By revamping ToysRUs.com and adding a Disney microsite, the company is refocusing resources on the eCommerce market. In turn, Target’s annual revenue was forecasted to be [$22,006 million in 2022](https://www.statista.com/forecasts/1218314/target-revenue-development-ecommercedb). ### 5\. Rakuten Amazon is regarded as a behemoth in the U.S., but the Rakuten Group is its fiercest rival in Japan. Rakuten was founded in 1997, offering online shopping, banking, payments, investment, and even streaming (Rakuten TV). Rakuten relies on an entirely different economic strategy to support its expansion. It offers a cash-back program to entice customers to purchase its products on Rakuten rather than directly from brands. That’s why the U.S.-based cash-back service Rakuten Rewards saw an [increase to 22.3 billion yen in Q3 FY2022](https://rakuten.today/blog/fy2022-q3-results.html). On the other hand, Rakuten Group’s domestic e-commerce division brought in about [712 billion Japanese yen in revenue for 2021](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1241881/rakuten-group-domestic-e-commerce-revenue/). To expand internationally, Rakuten has also purchased several businesses. It bought Buy.com in the U.S. in 2010, France’s PriceMinister, and Play.com in the UK. All three firms’ websites now lead to Rakuten’s official web pages. Additionally, the platform operates in two market niches. First, Rakuten helps consumers who independently seek goods and services online. Second, the company allows merchants who require customers or buyers to sell their goods. Rakuten works with cutting-edge features like personalization, lower costs, and risk reduction, giving merchants a more powerful brand position. ### 6\. JingDong (JD) Next on the list of Amazon competitors is JingDong (JD) (JingDong), a Chinese e-commerce platform established in Beijing in 1998. JingDong is famous for its successful B2C operations and robust logistics setup. It competes with Amazon and Alibaba since both allow customers to purchase things in bulk. JD’s strategy includes using luxury goods as the key differentiator and positioning itself as the nation’s most dependable retailer. At the end of 2021, JD’s e-commerce platform had approximately 569.7 million annual active customers. Plus, JD’s revenue at the end of September 2022 was [$34.236 billion](https://www.macrotrends.net/stocks/charts/JD/jd/revenue). ### 7\. Otto In Europe, Otto is one of the biggest online retailers. The company, established in 1949, began as a German mail-order business before becoming an internet retailer in 1995. As a result, making it Amazon’s oldest competitor. Otto is now regarded as a one-stop store for various consumer goods. In the fiscal year 2021-2022, Otto generated [5.1 billion euros in revenue](https://www.statista.com/statistics/794282/otto-e-commerce-revenues/). The Otto group rose as Germany’s second-most profitable retailer in 2020. Otto’s connections with top retail brands and superior customer service are responsible for its success. Otto’s most significant market share is in the furniture and home furnishings industry. But it also carries top-name apparel, electronics brands, and sports equipment. ### 8\. Newegg Although Newegg, founded in 2001, is neither eBay nor Amazon, the company is a significant player in the electronics market. Newegg offers a large selection of products at reasonable costs, from laptops to cameras. Additionally, the company provides Newegg Marketplace. The platform enables various businesses to connect with millions of shoppers across more than 50 nations. ### 9\. Flipkart Flipkart, one of India’s most well-known e-commerce companies, provides an extensive range of product categories.  The company offers furniture and electronics to fashion and electronics to gardening supplies. Also, the 2007-founded business competes with Amazon through customer service, product selection, incentive programs, and price. Additionally, Flipkart offers a unique Plus SuperCoins reward program that enables customers to accrue points for their purchases. You can exchange the coins for more savings vouchers, entertainment deals, and other items. ### 10\. Etsy For those looking to buy or sell handmade and vintage goods online, there is Etsy. The platform began in New York in 2005 and now serves people worldwide. Etsy’s business model is built on three things: - Fees charged by third-party payment processors - Commissions for sales transactions - Other services provided by those who sell The e-commerce platform’s strategy [generated $2.3 billion in 2021](https://www.statista.com/statistics/409371/etsy-annual-revenue/). ## How Small Businesses Can Rival Amazon You’ve definitely wondered at least once as a small business owner, “How the hell can I compete with Amazon?”. Amazon likely controls a sizable portion of your market share if you operate an online store or even physical stores that cater to a specific niche. The multi-million e-commerce company does really have a [competitive advantage](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-competitive-advantage/). Here are some tips and tricks to be up to par with Amazon and its competitors while growing your [customer base](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-customer-base/). ### Strive for Excellent Customer Service Treating your consumers as persons rather than just reference numbers is one of the major benefits small businesses have. Plus, when compared to Amazon, small businesses have a distinct advantage in terms of customer service. Small businesses are more likely agile and can afford to get personal, frank, and imaginative with their customer service. Simple strategies for producing positive client experiences include: - Include handwritten messages of appreciation with your orders - Directly address them and request their opinions - Send relevant, customized emails - Solve client problems promptly with meaningful resolutions ### Go Omnichannel Going omnichannel applies to both physical and online-only retailers. Having an omnichannel experience is crucial for winning new business and keeping hold of current clients. In addition, having an omnichannel approach has the following advantages: - Boosts operational effectiveness - Enhances sales - Makes inventory turnover better ### Create a Loyalty Program A really simple [loyalty program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/11/18/loyalty-programs-what-works-and-what-doesnt/) is another method to compete with Amazon. You can consider a range of different loyalty program types depending on the type of business you operate.  Examples are: - Point-based - Tiered - Paid ( “plus” or “premium” members) - Spending-based - Gamified programs - Value-based programs (tree-planting programs) ### Have an Active Community Presence Nothing is more effective than a vibrant community. All of the major e-commerce businesses initially made their riches in this manner. Successful companies created a vibrant, engaged community around their goods and services. And small businesses like yours may also do this. Putting money into community development will help you attract more clients and transform them into brand advocates. Building a list of email addresses is crucial in this approach because it enables you to contact them frequently. ### Introduce Products to Other Marketplaces You can use online marketplaces other than Amazon and sell directly from your website. Using other marketplaces is the best approach for smaller brands in niche markets. Shoppers already use these platforms to conduct online transactions, so you’ll have an instant audience. ## Amazon’s Secret to Success If you have an online store, you must accept that you compete with Amazon. Generally, Amazon is a well-diversified business that enjoys the benefits of numerous lucrative revenue sources. The company may initially terrify new e-commerce platforms. However, your business’s size and industry are irrelevant.  Plus, Amazon sells everything. In other words, Amazon isn’t slowing down anytime soon. But the truth is that you can outperform Amazon by developing distinctive products and valuable, individualized purchasing experiences. Enjoyed reading this post? Check out these e-commerce and business articles: - [How To Set Up Your E-commerce Business From Scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) - [Simple Amazon SEO Guide for 2023](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/) - [How to Build a Profitable Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) Don’t forget to drop a comment below with your thoughts about the Amazon competitors I listed. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Jasper vs. ChatGPT: The Ultimate AI Showdown Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/jasper-vs-chatgpt-the-ultimate-ai-showdown/ Published: 2023-02-15 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Artificial intelligence (AI) tools like Jasper and ChatGPT are taking over the world today and are becoming internet sensations. These content writing tools have helped content creators and writers to become more efficient even on days when writer’s block gets in the way. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Artificial intelligence (AI) tools like Jasper and ChatGPT are taking over the world today and are becoming internet sensations. These content writing tools have helped content creators and writers to become more efficient even on days when writer’s block gets in the way.  With the click of a button, short and long-form content can be created by ChatGPT and Jasper AI to help produce engaging content. Generally, bloggers, content creators, agencies, writers, and business owners use ChatGPT and Jasper the most. Since Jasper and [ChatGPT](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/) came into the market, people have been wondering which is better and what the differences between the two are. Generally, these two chatbots and AI writing tools were created for content marketers and bloggers to help them generate content for articles, captions, landing pages, and many more. In this article, I will discuss everything you need to know about [Jasper](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) and ChatGPT so you can decide which one will be best for you. Now, let’s get into it! ## What is ChatGPT?  ChatGPT is a big language model that produces text that resembles human speech using GPT-3.5, which is short for “Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3”. It is a ground-breaking language model that creates human-like content using machine learning and deep learning. ChatGPT can be summed up as a question-answering chatbot that performs a variety of tasks, such as text translation, summarization, question resolution, and text production. Simply provide it with some input, which will provide an output that is pertinent to you. The natural language processing (NLP) based [Chat GPT program was created by a firm called OpenAI](https://chatgptonline.net/). You can converse using this tool as though you were conversing with a friend.  With a natural language processing (NLP) API, you can instantly write anything from a book to an advertisement, respond to inquiries, perform translations, and even write code. ## What is Jasper? Jasper employs the same GPT-3 language model as ChatGPT, which OpenAI created to produce content that sounds human. By producing unique and interesting content for you, [Jasper AI](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) is an artificial intelligence (AI) content platform generator that can assist you in overcoming “writer’s block.” With the click of a button, both short and long-form content may be created. Jasper AI also provides Jasper Chat, a ChatGPT substitute that functions like a chatbot. You can have a natural discussion with AI using Jasper Chat and receive accurate responses to your questions. Do you want to write a brief story about dogs? If so, Jasper Chat will do it for you right away. ### Jasper Chat Jasper’s chat is a tool included in the JasperAI subscription bundle that competes with ChatGPT. This is the feature that allows you to create blog content for any topic you choose. The feature is located at the left, where your dashboard is located. ![Jasper vs. ChatGPT The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_sqk8pc7eEHhiaGGZiYVSIdVbcnHsuCCKMMgN2QO4XFedilhtlmn1d8ZYsjJBlcr4SC379EnG1F7bEBAdBpjL3iDDERX6nR67AKQ4u8FjgJAmbayrkDvLpB1vnQCzcrN-Z-k68E1ZNKADaSd) ## Features and Benefits ### ChatGPT ChatGPT has a few features and benefits that make it a good AI tool and explains why people use it. The followings are the features and benefits: 1. **Free Service:** ChatGPT is a free service tool; you do not need to make any payments to access its features. 2. **Easy to Use:** All you need to do is to put in your question, and you will get a prompt response to what you need to know. 3. **Dialogue-Based:** You can actually speak to ChatGPT in a dialogue format; you can have conversations with the tool. 4. **Coding is Possible:** It is capable of writing code; simply ask it to do so for a certain application, and you will get what you want. 5. **Translating:** Language translation is one of the many capabilities of ChatGPT. 6. **Explains:** It can provide a straightforward explanation of a complex problem. ### Jasper AI Jasper AI has a plethora of features and benefits that better explain why the AI writing tool has gotten the attention it has today. Here are some of those benefits and features: 1. **Blog Post Intro Writing:** All you need to do is enter the title of your blog, and Jasper will create the introduction for it. 2. **Improves Content:** You can take a piece of information and revise it to make it more intriguing, original, and compelling. 3. **Product Description Creation:** Do you sell products on Amazon or any other online shopping site? All you have to do is describe your product, and Jasper will create a description. 4. **For YouTube:** Jasper can create a video description, video script hook and introduction, video script outline, video titles, and video topic ideas using the platform’s five main tools. 5. **AIDA Structure:** Jasper can help you use its time-tested marketing framework to develop content that piques readers’ attention, drives them to take action, and increases your user base. 6. **Listicles:** Create a listicle depending on the subject of your blog post. This feature is great for product reviews. 7. **Facebook Advertising:** You can write persuasive content for your social media posts and Facebook ads. 8. **Storytelling Ability:** Jasper can create an imaginative tale from just one syllable. You can learn a lot from using this tool.  ## The Difference Between ChatGPT And Jasper The [substantial language model GPT 3 is used by ChatGPT and Jasper AI](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/jasper-vs-chatgpt-2023-which-one-best-ai-chatbot-eric-darnell/). This underwent reinforcement learning using human feedback training (RLHF). Although ChatGPT is a potent generative AI, it is best suited for testing and research. Jasper Chat, on the other hand, is made especially for business applications like social media posts and marketing and sales. Generally, Jasper uses a variety of models, including OpenAI, T5, Neo X, and Bloom, to produce content that is most beneficial for a certain industry or use case. Jasper is designed to be practical and usable for ordinary enterprises. In order to better suit business plans, it will write website content. Jasper and ChatGPT differ primarily in a few key ways. ### 1\. Variations in Reliability Jasper doesn’t really fail or crash. There have been occasions when it crashed a couple of times, but you can simply refresh the page to get things working again. [But lately, people have noticed ChatGPT going offline frequently](https://gizmodo.com/chatgpt-down-ai-chatbot-1-million-users-1849866029). ChatGPT said that they were updating their servers in response to the demand, which was why they went offline. ![Jasper vs. ChatGPT The Ultimate AI Showdown](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/fWsfpsdphOTh4t7g6hC_R19HC0gZqBkYZX6bB31e4kFrvKN3Jg-V7ot-YzW8gsaYAf3fooa_UMBDkhTxNpaEneQu3kQTF9v6AfS0jMWqFR4znMD-FbsNMxqBA9a2UvEwpecYSO_SRaQjHxxv) Nowadays, updating servers is expensive. Because of this and the issues ChatGPT has been having recently, they may have to start charging for their service. They may not be able to maintain having a free service platform as their user demands increase daily. ChatGPT will have to create a solution that can accommodate its large user base. In summary, ChatGPT can be seen as a playground where you make rough sketches, whereas Jasper has been designed for business and marketing. ### 2\. Free or Paid This one is pretty evident and straightforward. Jasper is a paid, subscription-based service, while ChatGPT is a free service. ### 3\. Jasper is Designed with Business Use in Mind In contrast to its rival, ChatGPT, Jasper Chat offers organizations vital capabilities for their marketing, sales, and other use cases. But with both user interfaces, artificial intelligence is becoming more approachable and accessible to individuals of all ages. Jasper, which draws from models like Neo X, T5, and Bloom, as well as OpenAI, is the pinnacle of cutting-edge AI synthesis. It builds a complete set of AI tools using all of these technologies. JasperAI is significantly more all-encompassing than ChatGPT, which is primarily focused on content creation. While ChatGPT does offer some coding, translation, and other services, it falls far short of what JasperAI is capable of. Due to its unique algorithm, Jasper AI generates results more quickly and effectively than ChatGPT. This implies that you’ll get content quickly and accurately. ## What Are the Uses of ChatGPT? There are countless uses for ChatGPT. Here are a few typical ChatGPT use scenarios. ### 1\. Simplify a Complex Concept The ability of an AI chatbot like ChatGPT to clarify complicated subjects is one of its main benefits. With ChatGPT, you can get information on different topics with elaborate explanations.  ### 2\. Post on Social Media Do you want to excel in this new social media wave? Are you lacking time to generate social media posts frequently? In that case, ChatGPT is a great tool for you to use when you draft social media posts for your company. Imagine you want to share a post on LinkedIn about SEO. In that case, give ChatGPT the appropriate command. Tell it the type of product you want to share or what your post is about, and it will produce a LinkedIn post for you. ## How Can Jasper AI Be Used? The major benefit of using Jasper AI over ChatGPT is that you can access more than 50 different use cases for content generation. Here are some common real-world application cases for Jasper. ### 1\. Produce Content for Websites Are you trying to find an AI writing tool that can quickly produce better material? You will definitely adore the Jasper AI software. It gives you access to a ton of templates that assist you in developing interesting blog posts, such as: - Blog entries - Product evaluations - Case studies - Meta descriptions, and titles ### 2\. Create Video Scripts Would you like to produce captivating films for websites like YouTube and TikTok, but you are having trouble writing captivating scripts for your videos? Then you should absolutely think about using Jasper. You can create script outlines for your videos using a template that is provided there called Video Script Outline. This template is most effective for “How to” and “Listicle” style videos and will help you create the content you need in no time. ## Which is Best, ChatGPT or Jasper? Depending on your purpose, the answer to this question will vary. You don’t need Jasper if it’s simply for personal use. For personal use, you can rely on ChatGPT. Meanwhile, Jasper will help build your business faster if you are a because of the wide array of tools at your disposal. If you found this article helpful, please check out my other posts below: - [The Power of ChatGPT: From Customer Service to Lead Generation](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/) - [Can Jasper.ai Really Replace Your Copywriter?](https://alejandrorioja.com/can-jasper-ai-really-replace-your-copywriter/) - [Review Of Jasper.ai: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing](https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-jasper-ai/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Uncovering The Mystery: How To See Who Viewed Your Twitter Profile? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/uncovering-the-mystery-how-to-see-who-viewed-your-twitter-profile/ Published: 2023-02-03 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: It has an unlimited free app and a premium version for $9.99 a month, or you get it for $49 a year. With Sprout Social, you’ll have to connect your Twitter account with the app and instantly retrieve all the data without having to log in manually every time. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Twitter doesn’t give you access to who sees your profile because of its privacy policy. Although, you can still see how many have viewed your profile through Twitter Analytics or other third-party apps, such as Sprout Social and Hootsuite.  Access to users’ information is limited because of Twitter’s privacy policy, which is why other people won’t easily be able to tweet, followers, and other details on your profile. But just as much as they won’t be able to see who viewed your profile, they won’t be able to see you viewing their profile as well. Twitter doesn’t have any features for seeing their users who view your profile. This means there’s no way you can see their Twitter name or account.  You also won’t be able to see other users’ recent activities on Twitter. Knowing who viewed your profile or their recent activities goes against Twitter’s privacy policy. There’s only limited information you can access on other users.  However, you can see the number of views on who sees your profile through Twitter Analytics, a feature built within Twitter. Other alternatives to Twitter Analytics are third-party apps with the same feature plus more features to help you monitor and provide insights into your progress. Now, I’ll show you how you can track the number of users who viewed your Twitter profile. Plus, I’ll guide you through other settings on privacy and apps you can use to keep track of your Twitter profile views. ## Use Twitter Analytics You can view how many have visited your profile through [Twitter Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-twitter-marketing/).  This feature is an essential tool, especially in helping you to grow your brand through your Twitter account. Through monitoring the metrics, you can assess the progress of your Twitter account and tweets.   Generally, it gives you access to the following data: - Tweet activity - Followers’ interests, location, and demographics - Twitter Cards (app installs, clicks, and retweets) To turn on Twitter Analytics, you can follow these steps: - Once logged in to your Twitter account, go to the menu sidebar on the left and click the More tab - Then select Analytics and be redirected to its page - Once you’re on the webpage, click on the ‘Turn analytics on’ button Once your Twitter Analytics is activated, you’ll see the number of profile visits and retweets, tweet impressions, recent follows, and unfollows. You can track which of your tweets has the most impressions and the engagement it’s getting. ## Apps To You See Who Views Your Twitter Profile Just the same as Twitter Analytics, these apps are mostly used for monitoring the metrics on your tweets, profile visits, and other data such as demographics and location. Twitter won’t be able to share further information, such as each viewer’s Twitter account or IP addresses, to Analytics and third-party apps. ### 1\. Crowdfire Crowdfire lets you handle social media engagements, such as further insights on each tweet and other things you share. It’s especially useful if you want to observe the trends and produce effective content. [Crowdfire](https://www.crowdfireapp.com/) can give you a weekly summary of the updates and performance of your Twitter account.  The app can also advise you regarding your followers and schedule your tweets so you can share them whenever most of your followers are online. It has an unlimited free app and a premium version for $9.99 a month, or you get it for $49 a year. ### 2\. Sprout Social With [Sprout Social](https://sproutsocial.com/), you’ll have to connect your Twitter account with the app and instantly retrieve all the data without having to log in manually every time. It can retrieve information such as active topics, tweet performances, followers, and demographics for further audience segmentation. Additionally, their app has multiple other features: - The dashboard displays relevant figures - Also provides statistical data - Schedule your posts - Customize social calendar - Works on mobile devices #### Plans If you use this third-party app, [you can choose from its 4 plans](https://sproutsocial.com/pricing/). You can start the plan with a free trial or request a demo before buying the plan. - Standard - Publish, schedule, draft, and queue posts - Social calendar - Paid advertising tools to promote FB posts - Profiles, keywords, and locations monitoring - Up to 5 social profiles - $249 per month - Professional – Most popular - Competitive reports for Twitter, IG, and FB - Trend analysis for Twitter keywords and hashtags - Reply speed and time evaluations - Premium social reporting for Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram - Custom workflows for multiple approvers and steps - Unlimited social profiles - CRM, Helpdesk, and Social Commerce integrations - $399 per month - Advanced - Content and digital asset library - Saved and suggested replies - Automated Link Tracking - Automation tools with chatbots - Message Spike Alerts for increased message activity - Twitter surveys to specify NPS or CSAT - $499 per month - Enterprise - Custom-built for every unique need of your company - You can request a demo - 24/5 customer service - Premier consulting services - Social Listening to uncover brand influencers, competitive intel, and emerging trends - Employee Advocacy for brand’s organic reach - Contact them further for pricing #### Connecting Your Twitter Account to Sprout Social To check your progress, connect your Twitter account to Sprout Social by following these steps: - Once you’ve signed up or logged in, on the sidebar on the bottom left, click on the icon to open the Account settings - Then select Connect a Profile - Link your Twitter account to access data via API  ### 3\. SocialPilot [SocialPilot](https://www.socialpilot.co/) offers real-time analytics from your Twitter account. You can track your performance, schedule your posts, track your competitors’ progress and observe their social media strategies. It’s suitable for small businesses and individuals for their profession, agencies, and enterprise. **1\. For Small Businesses and Professionals** – you’ll be able to have email support and content suggestions to have a manageable queue. **2\. For Marketing Agencies and Team**s – has built-in workflows for team collaboration. **3\. For Enterprise** – can be customized according to your brand and has phone and email support. ### 4\. Hootsuite [Hootsuite](https://www.hootsuite.com/) is an easy-to-use social media manager with features for getting insights from their weekly trends, which include popular tweets, retweets, and newly gained followers. They have advanced metrics where you can check your social media performance organized accordingly by clicks per location.   You can choose from one of their 4 monthly plans: - Professional Plan - Unlimited posts with post scheduling - Access to messages in one inbox - 1 User with 10 Social accounts - $49 per month - Team Plan - Unlimited posts with post scheduling - Access to messages in one inbox - Up to 3 Users with 20 Social accounts - $249 per month - Business Plan - Unlimited posts with post scheduling - Access to messages in one inbox - Assign roles & permissions - Inbound and outbound tagging - Customer support - Up to 5 Users with 35 Social accounts - $739 per month - Enterprise Plan - Unlimited posts with post scheduling - Access to messages in one inbox - Assign roles & permissions - Inbound and outbound tagging - Customer support - Social ads management - Social ads analytics & reporting - Team productivity reporting - Start with 5 Users with 50 social accounts - Custom pricing ### 5\. eClincher [eClincher](https://eclincher.com/) can manage your social media apps, including your Twitter account. It has features that will help you with content management, engagements and social listening, and analytics.  Additionally, all 3 monthly plans have free trials, and you can have a 10% discount if you avail of an annual plan, and you can choose from any of these: - Basic - 1 user with 10 profiles - 24/7 live support - For a single brand - Create, publish, and schedule content - Content and Visual Calendar - Suggested Content (up to 3 feeds) - Analytics report - Listening and Monitoring (up to 10 feeds) - Add on: Local [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) up to 10 searches ($15/month) - $65/month - Premier - 3 users with 20 profiles - 24/7 Live Support - For a single brand - Create, publish, and schedule content - Content and Visual Calendar - Workflows with post-approval - Team collaboration - Suggested Content (up to 10 feeds) - Analytics report - Auto Post (up to 10 RSS & WP feeds) - Listening and Monitoring (up to 50 feeds) - Competitors analytics reports - Add on: Local SEO up to 10 searches ($15/month) - $175/month - Agency - 6 users with 40 profiles - 24/7 Live Support - For unlimited brands - Create, publish, and schedule content - Content and Visual Calendar - Suggested Content (up to 10 feeds) - Analytics report - Workflows with post-approval  - Team collaboration - Team productivity reports - Add on: Local SEO up to 10 searches ($15/month) - $425/month ### 6\. CoSchedule [CoSchedule](https://coschedule.com/) is primarily a social media marketing tool with features such as engagement rates, content calendars, and [keeping track of your followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/). The app has a free marketing calendar where you can enjoy the following features: - Unlimited marketing projects and content - Social media publishing for up to 2 user profiles - Basic customer support - Marketing and project management integrations But they also have a pro paid version that’s an advanced marketing calendar and unlimited publishing for $29/month that has the following features: - Shareable, read-only calendar views (unlimited) - Team task management and collaboration - Create custom workflow templates - Social media publishing (unlimited) - Bulk social media scheduling - Social media campaign templates - priority customer support ## Avoid Browser Extensions There are no browser extensions that can retrieve the data as to who’s viewing your Twitter profile. Additionally, they may harm your computer or smartphone since they may be malware codes that can steal your private information. ## Can You See Who Views Your Tweets? You won’t be able to see individual users that have viewed your tweets. Generally, Twitter Analytics and other third-party apps can only provide impressions on your tweets or how many have viewed them.  ## Set Your Twitter Account to Private As much as other users won’t be able to tell that you have viewed their profile, you also won’t know which users viewed and stalked your profile. If you want to keep your profile hidden from users who aren’t your followers, you can follow these steps to have a private account: - Once you log in to your Twitter account, go to the menu tab on the left side and click on the More tab - Then select Settings and Privacy - From there, you can see the list and select Privacy and Safety - Then from the list, select ‘Protect your tweets’ and click on the Protect button, which will make your tweets only available to your Twitter followers As you activate the private mode for your Twitter account, users who aren’t your followers won’t be able to see your tweets. They can only view your Twitter profile, including your username, bio, and the number and accounts of people you follow and your followers. ## Where this leaves us Although you won’t be able to view each user who has viewed your Twitter profile, you can still keep track of the number of users that view your profile. Other important data include demographics, social ads analytics, and the views or engagement per location. Access to this data is legal, safe, and helpful enough to get insights from your metrics to increase your growth on Twitter. Want to know other tips and tricks on social media? Check any of these posts! - [Twitter Scripts: Accept all Follower Requests, Unfollow, Like All Tweets, and more](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) - [How to Get More Snapchat Followers and Make Money 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/)  - [How to Get Verified on Instagram for Free ☑️](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 X (the platform formerly known as Twitter, rebranded July 2023) has continued reshaping the surface area. As of 2026: - **The blue check is now part of X Premium** ($8/mo basic, $16/mo Premium+, $22/mo for verified orgs) — the old "request verification" workflow is dead. - **Profile view counts** are visible to logged-in users on every tweet; the "who viewed my profile" myth that powered a generation of clickbait apps is finally moot. - **Voice tweets** are still in the product but rebranded as "Voice Posts" and limited to X Premium subscribers in most regions. - **API access** for legitimate automation costs from $200/mo (Basic) to $5K/mo (Pro), so the bulk-scripting era is over for most operators. For 2026 growth: ~611M MAU per X's last self-reported number (April 2025). Engagement still favors threaded, citation-friendly posts that get quoted by ChatGPT and Perplexity — the "X as feeder for AI engines" play is the dark-horse 2026 SEO move. --- ## How To Maximize Your Find My Friends Experience With The "Live Feature" Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-maximize-your-find-my-friends-experience-with-the-live-feature/ Published: 2023-02-02 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Social Media Marketing ## Table of contents #### Bottom line One of the core components of the Apple ecosystem is the Find My app. Since its launch in 2013, Apple has been expanding, improving, and dynamizing the Find My network. But with iOS 15, Apple has taken the Find My app to the next level with many new features. iOS users may view their friends’ Live Locations for the first time. The newest feature is more secure and accurate than its old versions.  I recently came across the “Live” feature of “Find My Friends” on my iPhone. And I asked myself what this feature is and how it functions. That’s why I checked out the feature and discovered how Apple has again raised the bar in location sharing. In this guide, I’ll cover all you need about the Live function. And I’ll also throw in other interesting pieces of information, like how to troubleshoot the feature. Read on, and let’s dive into the “Live” feature. ## What Does Live Mean on “Find My Friends”? Apple has been continually improving its iOS through the years. And with the [iOS 15 update](https://www.forbes.com/sites/gordonkelly/2021/09/21/apple-ios-15-has-25-great-secret-features-free-iphone-upgrade/?sh=470369a07040) on September 15, 2021, Apple introduced many new and cool features. One is the “Live” feature on “Find My Friends.” This feature lets you track other iOS users’ locations in real-time. Once an iOS user has permitted you to see their location, you can utilize the Live feature to view every move they make. However, you can only see the “Live” location if you’re friends with the iOS user. The feature is extremely helpful for [parents to keep track of their kids](https://www.newsweek.com/7-phone-tracking-apps-parents-peace-mind-1610685). Additionally, the feature reduces the need to refresh the Find My app to verify a friend’s whereabouts.  ### Advantages of Live Location The “Live” feature is a great addition to iOS, and it has several benefits: 1. Safe travels – even though other apps like [WhatsApp](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/) provide the live location feature, it’s not entirely perfect. The Live feature will allow users to communicate their location with loved ones while traveling. 2. Finding lost iPhone – if you lose your iPhone, the live location will help you find it. 3. Child safety – as said earlier, the live feature will stop you from worrying about your child’s whereabouts. Real-time location updates are always provided. ### How to Enable Live Location on Find My App? Turning on the live location feature is a simple task. Here’s a step-by-step to start sharing your location with your friends and family: 1\. Go to **Settings** and tap **Privacy**. In the **Privacy** settings, tap **Location Services**. 2\. To turn on location services on your iPhone, toggle the button next to **Location Services**. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/hpW2uWGK46i15-l7qBd501Ixw0Ln5CV42U-uj6JM_YCpD_vHpJ7daDgvpK_MUwn_bC4edThFfuaUmO71XJZBudj9PfPvT4U92SWlqRm3RfMBDlmJ-ytdZLYiqPtljj0rmBDxBRavjITEEVer) [Image Source](https://www.luckluckgo.com/iphone-location/images/article/en/enable-location-services-on-iphone.png) 3\. After turning on the location services, you must activate your Find My app using your Apple ID. Then, tap on your name at the **Settings** interface. 4\. Open the **Find My** app. Switch the button next to **Find My iPhone** on. 5\. Go back to **Settings** and go to **Privacy**. Once there, tap **Location Services** and **Find My**. 6\. Inside the Find My menu, choose **While Using This App**. On the same interface, enable **Precise Location** for accuracy. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/eB4pAiLwiqsxTMHgz28cePqHFcc3inzz0VkMMG_hwb3vNSjW2NjIBAocRivC5aFle_ztAiLyafU0H1wSiT_JgKiNZB6AtbwNT03BgmK_tKip_0EdmHsEQ5upmhAEndldY6gng2dqOoZnlYrk) [Image Source](https://www.luckluckgo.com/iphone-location/images/article/en/find-my-enable-precise-location.png) 7\. Afterward, open the **Find My** app. Tap **Me**. 8\. Tap the button next to the **Share My Location**. Scroll down the Me interface and choose **Use This iPhone as My location** to ensure the device you’re using is sharing your location. 9\. Restart the Find My app and tap on the ‘+’ sign beside the People section. Tap **Share my location**. ### How to Disable Live Location on Find My App? Once you turn on the Live Location feature, your friends and family can automatically see where you are. But if you want a little privacy, you can turn off the Live Location feature. Here’s how: 1\. Launch the **Find My** app. 2\. Tap on **People** on the screen’s bottom-left. 3\. Choose the person you wish to block from seeing your location. 4\. Once selected, a prompt will pop up. Select **Stop Sharing Location**. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/DuDohYs1yDnZNUrd9RSZULR4hglIVwENr7c3Dvy5eTH0f4WhERHpyfURx59qEedZfvXJhnV40vuEqoGSEN40YlpIccgHmxwjAPXJAH8o34gWfNeULQDq8v7w3PIV5V54FuXhrSmxVcmN9fR3) [Image Source](https://www.luckluckgo.com/iphone-location/images/article/en/switch-off-live-on-find-my-click-stop-sharing-my-live-location.jpg) 5\. If you want to stop sharing your Live Location with everyone, tap on Me. Toggle the **Share My Location** option off. ## How to Use Find My Friends’ Live Feature to Find People There are two ways to check someone’s Live Location. You can see a person’s Live Location if they either shared it with you or you sent a request. #### Scenario A – Shared Live Location 1\. Launch the **Find My** app. 2\. Tap on **People** at the bottom of the screen. 3\. Choose the person you wish to check on. Once you tap the person’s name, you’ll see their location’s complete address. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/73SacbjOkp6n2JH3E_klyvvdrwaWhlCk_0x0FLKexJ8Lk0ROQ-eaLL3KK30iVOuHxUFzo2R_R4SVdBYKNsi-DHdvpngmMTtpjlt2xRXiCCT4Oiunxdulha_0gn5sAy7PouYhZMZCbCbbF216) [Image Source](https://cdn.nerdschalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ios-15-find-my-friends-live-tracking-43-a.png?width=500) ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/kth01dx--Lo0tbWc2gVR0SvFwNFYaLwZe302QU90fkG6TFUJGhIPbI9ONtAEUUxnzM7kStaYu2OipBwLZnSqh6MDfPbifmNG2vL95XYRUlfNr6lONseyK7XHG0wKpcLHvDLbS5TPRTeESxxo) [Image Source](https://cdn.nerdschalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ios-15-find-my-friends-live-tracking-45-a.png?width=500) 4\. You can also see other options such as **Contact**, **Directions** to their location, **Notifications**, and others. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IqAvFrFFuRbSSX3nWmAbuhdk31RxJBPjRmWfhjIFJ5C5VKHeKEpnRahO899tktFqdWERhuXvUcS7oIQ7LVeCr961WpkKpTK6LfNp873MTGNjeBgY509X94dBn6ldjuTjo72QaDLV1tULjYV8) [Image Source](https://cdn.nerdschalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ios-15-find-my-friends-live-tracking-44-a.png?width=500) #### Scenario B – Sending a Live Location Request 1\. Launch the **Find My** app. 2\. Tap on **People** at the bottom of the screen. 3\. Then, tap on the person you want to send the Live Location request. 4\. Scroll down and tap **Ask to Follow Location**. The request will automatically be sent to the person. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/V3zZtkeh-4H-77D3c69hoG35c-N0ahRpdQaFeLMLhiL-AnaMjQhbq1m8ir1wgjZhK-Fy3FHhSMBn5MyskdjtGAS4LkjsVeRdIOoDtmX2uqEDrvGaPZ_IPjyxVwhyJShQWdmcMlLdaKkK07_X) [Image Source](https://cdn.nerdschalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ios-15-find-my-friends-live-tracking-32-a.png?width=500) 5\. Note that the person has the right to allow or [deny the request](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-cancel-all-pending-friend-requests-on-facebook/). ### How to Turn Off Friend Requests on Find My Friends Turning on the Live Location feature means everyone can add you. Here’s a simple solution to turn off friend requests: 1\. Launch the **Find My** app. 2\. Tap on **Me** on the screen’s bottom-left corner. 3\. Find the **Allow Friend Requests** option. 4\. To disable this choice, toggle off the button next to it. Strangers can no longer send requests to know your live location. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1Pzo8vBuVA_VaidqryCpgT5DFVbqcNrBY8eY0EzPaAxJZH2xn7IQnZ0Ppx7ikMsieU9RPwz0xQYO0RVRP-3BO9JPWWmIf0SaiKgZ8d0sWBIeXA1HRJF_LSoo5yPaICOmdI7TDL5lcGrZg67z) [Image Source](https://i0.wp.com/www.techjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Screen-Shot-2019-10-14-at-6.10.38-PM.png?resize=1024%2C888&ssl=1) ### How to Use Find My App to Find Missing Devices The “Live” function’s versatility is its main positive quality. Aside from finding your friends, you can also look for lost Apple devices. You can use this functionality to your advantage with these easy steps: 1\. Open your **Find My** app. 2\. Tap on **Devices** at the bottom of the screen. You’ll see a list of devices connected to your Apple Family or Apple ID. 3\. Tap on the device you want to search for, and the app will show you where the device is. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/038ReOnSodSAiSx8DutsErXu3gm57rmKyviQsHs9VPbI15u3CbGiYfDOevzjw_xoF3FJlnPjSQDKQyaS0fUcajj3OTHUOQwW4jdfg7Uv3yjh8oKqIDKAGIXbITOzmlOWRFCgtnQ6t6uyDANK) [Image Source](https://help.apple.com/assets/634D93C867B48F12442A1784/634D93C967B48F12442A1792/en_US/25d2b842586efdabfc837a654325df79.png) 4\. You can configure the Find My app to play a sound or send a text message to the lost device. Additionally, you can lock your device so people will not tamper with your data, like [deleting your Facebook messages](https://alejandrorioja.com/deleted-facebook-messages-how-to-restore-them/). ## How Can I Fix Find My Friends’ No Location Issue? One of the main issues iOS users can encounter with the Find My Friends app is “No Location.” The “No Location” makes your iPhone unable to find the GPS coordinates of people you’ve permitted to share your location. There are several underlying reasons why you’re having a “No Location” issue. Here are some of these reasons and how to resolve them: **1\. Incorrect Date and Time** – the Live Location feature also uses your friend’s date and time. Once any of the two is put incorrectly, the No Location issue will pop up. To fix this, simply go to Settings, General, and choose Date & Time. Choose the Set Automatically option, and check if the date and time on your device are correct. **2\. Disable Location Services**– sometimes, it’s the obvious reasons that’ll hamper your Live Location feature. For example, having your Location Services turned off. You can easily turn it on by going to Settings, Privacy, and then tapping on Location Services. Toggle the button beside the Location Services. **3\. iOS Not Updated** – the “No Location” error will sometimes pop up when you don’t update your iPhone. To update your device, go to Settings, tap on General, and then go to Software Update. Afterward, install any updates available. ## Difference Between iOS 15 Find My App and iOS 14 and Older The iOS 15 brings a lot of updates for you, especially with the Find My app. First, Live Location in iOS 15 modifies how you see your friends. Before iOS 15’s Live Location feature, the location of your friends on the Find My app would intermittently update. Now, you can easily monitor the whereabouts of your friends and family in real time. Apple thinks the new Find My app update would make it simpler for consumers to get in touch with one another. Another great thing about the iOS 15 Find My app is you can easily find devices that are turned off. However, this feature only works when your device is close to another Apple device. Additionally, if your iPhone got stolen and erased, it will still appear in the Find My app. The feature is closely tied to your Activation Lock, which needs your Apple ID and password. Lastly, with Separation Alerts, the Find My app can notify you if an iPhone or iPad is left behind. The notification will be sent on one of your other devices. ## FAQs: ### 1\. How accurate is the Live feature of Find My Friends? The Live Location feature’s accuracy is approximately 20 feet, but that depends if you have a strong satellite connection. A weaker connection can reduce the distance to 100 or even 1,000 feet. ### 2\. Can you still get tracked when your iPhone is turned off? Yes, you can still get tracked. As long as the person is added to your People list in your Find My app, they can still know your location. Additionally, nearby Apple devices such as iPhones and Macs will aid in your precise location. ### 3\. Is sending a current location the same as sharing a Live Location? No, they’re completely different. If you share your current location, it will reflect where you currently are. On the other hand, sharing Live Locations will show your exact and accurate location while you’re moving. ### 4\. Can you use the Find My app to know if someone’s using their iPhone? Actually, you can. Go to your People list on your Find My app and check if ” Online ” is near the person’s name. But the feature will only work if they’re connected to the internet. Otherwise, the word “Offline” will appear next to their name. ## Sharing Live Location Hassle-Free The Find My Friends’ Live Location feature greatly increases the security of iPhones. Generally, the Live Location feature will provide peace of mind by checking your friends and family’s whereabouts in real-time.  Like this article? Learn more from other articles I’ve written about other apps like Spotify and Snapchat: - [Fixing the Snapchat app when it keeps crashing](https://alejandrorioja.com/snapchat-keeps-crashing-here-is-how-to-fix-it/) - [How to restore a temporarily locked Facebook account](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-temporarily-locked-heres-how-to-fix-it/) - [Can you make money with OnlyFans?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-onlyfans-make-money/) How frequently do you check on the real-time locations of your friends and family? Is there anything else about this feature that needs to be clarified? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below. --- _— [Alejandro](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems](/services/#agent) for founders. [See the stack →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Fix "Youtube Videos Not Playing" Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-youtube-videos-not-playing/ Published: 2023-01-31 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Because of its incomparable video quality, Youtube is regarded as the ultimate giant in the online streaming sector. Youtube supports portability across platforms, generates millions of dollars in advertising income, and is considered a “go-to” website for all forms of video streaming. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Because of its incomparable video quality, Youtube is regarded as the ultimate giant in the online streaming sector. Youtube supports portability across platforms, generates millions of dollars in advertising income, and is considered a “go-to” website for all forms of video streaming.  However, Youtube may encounter some bugs or software issues. But fortunately, there are various hacks and procedures that you may do to troubleshoot your device to aid issues, such as bugs, internet, device, and web browser problems.  Youtube seems similar to television since it has become my go-to platform for watching news and entertainment because of its [large user community](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/). As a Youtube user, I spend many hours watching the vlogs of my favorite [content creator](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-go-viral-the-formula-for-creating-viral-videos/), news, documentaries, and other videos that may be informative or make my day happy.  However, with all the years I spent on Youtube, experiencing minor software issues is inevitable, hindering the smooth flow of the video I am watching. That is why I have learned simple methods that I can apply in troubleshooting errors in my device. Want to learn about fixing Youtube videos not playing? Here is a useful guide that may help you fix your problems in video streaming.  ## 5 Reasons Why Youtube Videos Are Not Working ### Internet Problems Remember that Youtube videos will only normally appear if your connection is linked to your device properly. A sluggish connection to the internet will influence the speed at which Youtube videos play. In this case, consider lowering the video resolution.  ### Bugs If Youtube videos won’t run or play on your iOS or Android device, it may be Youtube bugs or issues. The software can be reinstalled or held off until Youtube resolves the bug issues.  ### Browser Problems Browser-related problems cause numerous Youtube video-playing problems. That is why refreshing the Youtube video page may resolve this problem.  If not, you will have to clear your cache or upgrade your web browser. Also, using a different web browser is a wise decision. Here is some browser that you may use: - Google Chrome - Apple Safari - Opera - Mozilla Firefox - Microsoft Edge ### Outdated Phones You may have this problem if your Android or iPhone has a flaw, such as an old operating system. Therefore, you must update your device because it may be the cause why Youtube videos need to be fixed on your device.  ### Malfunctioning Computers Youtube may not open or play videos if your PC or laptop malfunctions. You should reboot your computer device or run a Windows software update if available. ## How to Fix Youtube Videos Not Working ### Windows 7, 8, and 10 Numerous people report that their Windows web browser could not play Youtube videos. Multiple factors, including your browser’s settings and performance, could play a vital role in this problem.  Here are some effective solutions that could help you troubleshoot issues regarding Youtube videos that are not working on Windows 7, 8, or 10.  #### Double-Check Your Time And Date Whenever you play a video, leave feedback, or [post a video to Youtube](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-rank-your-youtube-videos/), it collects statistics about your viewing habit and a timestamp on your device. Your desktop or laptop’s time setting could be incorrect, leading to issues like Youtube videos not playing properly.  1\. Find and press the Windows key and pick the “control panel” among the options on the right side.  2\. Once you are on the control panel, click “Clock, Language, and Region” > “Date and Time.” 3\. Click “Change date and time,” then input and select the accurate time, date, and region. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/EeJZimuTHdJ5YWQXbmR4LGv8V0JRVYuL_uWf-IlNVMWGaHKpOwYiqUDIKBHp-ryzHZ-M-N-sYMCUHdjRlTfi0lQw1QPYqUN5_LUeKCP8FZ6T_LRMU0i2KG6e8CIxVhX1MFnxZrf6g-ahQQaG) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) 4\. Finally, click “Apply” after all the necessary changes. #### Clean Browsing History, Cookies, and Caches All web pages use browser data to [personalize your video streaming experience](https://www.vimond.com/think-piece/the-road-to-personalization-in-the-streaming-space) according to your previous browsing history.  Browser data includes all the details regarding websites you have browsed, cache, accounts, and more. If you encounter any issues, you can delete all the browsing activity and see if it helps.  1\. In the search field, type “chrome://settings” and then press enter to direct you to the site. 2\. At the advanced menu, look and click “Clear browsing data.” ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1uZTCCQwNY763691ClTCtwkUzJl0j62fzurJbWZ2K3X1AqxJiw0tLsDPsff9ZKD644OuxkML8aPLvAXfSZoHo31BG2bVSMgdGIJR_1FAWfPsswVDQoEe1WNvSN3W7sQBMynk702vhrNPsGru) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) 3\. Click all the available checklists, set the time range to “All time,” and click “Clear data” to erase all browsing history. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0BSJTnhYP2NQSkBDVr55T3xXsO2U2zz5nq36c6kRitzj4aDVQX5R93zpa5khsy831i_JlgGZsen6QYSm59j9goV8uJVnU3NEebRRxAN5KdHWgtRNgjwGJF-acwbFnYJVpNQuYJSg2HssMi0B) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) #### Test Your Internet Connectivity You must ensure your internet access is functioning before adjusting your device. The Youtube video may never begin playing if your connection is poor and may remain in a “buffering condition.” #### Deactivate Advertisement Blockers The use of advertisement blockers, which aims to prevent advertisements from appearing on websites, is growing in popularity nowadays. If Youtube and your advertisement blocker conflict, Youtube may decline to transfer data to your browser, and the video may not start to play.  1\. On the address box, type “chrome://extension” and click enter.  2\. After that, you can deactivate this ad blocker by clicking the “remove” option. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BEgqRSdvPfd7SwhT5TSCLaAxDWYD_FPlUle9hEASwR9ixPfV7yUqkxzb5xbc_3aBwR0KggE4QnErFT3rHMCXRKBUr5JUX4GAHHjneg_Ac6zioJTfO7zUKOT8lZfAk6xMZ3UuVdoUmB0pq5He) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) #### Try VLC Media Player If you cannot continue watching Youtube videos, you can watch them using the VLC media player. 1\. On the Youtube page, copy the URL of the specific video that you wish to watch. 2\. Open the VLC media player and pick “Open Network Stream.” ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gaQ2QsBCZAW_j_OCBxBnToVqTahLbWvY63QKx3WYk3O2vim9pWo3neci8sr8CXxIx9E8JG1TqbUPIWE7VwucUrbycHJqvZOu_rMDOzrezrBgqQc7RU2edSucK7T2mwa5RLZtddx2_2EhMPkT) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) 3\. Finally, paste the URL and press play.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6Hnp5f7ArHuZ6o1ZvOjXxO814XWz5bEwraHoUKZTN6HZdV3LSlEquRyoG56zxMAdjTJHs0sGvNw6o2BAJB_ZA5R3mmAXsyzPCTy6wnoLKrpog4wmXoYhM4pF7_6742Zn8-h-QZc2VOLhUJsb) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) #### Erase Application Data This application data is pulled from the file by the program on the website, which is then utilized to enhance and personalize your viewing experience. There is a chance that your browser’s application data is malfunctioning, which is why you are having problems. 1\. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard, type “%appdata%,” and enter. 2\. Next, press “AppData” at the address box and click “Local” to open the folder. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/UnEkgbPGlMKF6XsrJCylfpLRpR9NnNaHMea6SII8_MQlRS5Nfv4HgEMF2CooWio3AeJDwxsKui_TNaD6ELL4JgMtI6of_w-vEONX_OZBVAJMx6Rw-iRxknc776G26JQRf4PSDzyAq8TFFEFt) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) 3\. On the local folder, look and click “Google > User Data” to clear all folders.   ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/G65Diw4LOJh8b_j2FaDxrMFp8xwk9ZE3NueV2mGRSUimntuAg3xb-v-Zli8kIi9WvaBeu4L-52EVbpGr5aZ12k461LmckjSrIb7YDzEvmbBgsdxX7hrmKk2GwRd2mGm6s5SqynSqs9mOXQ3A) [Image Source](https://appuals.com/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-windows-7-8-or-10/) If none of these solutions can fix your video streaming experience, you may conduct these additional solutions: - Create another Youtube account and see if you can watch videos from it - Try to upgrade your Virtual memory - Testing software graphics and activating hardware acceleration in your computer - Try to activate Adobe Flash Player and JavaScript - Try to uninstall and reinstall your default browser after clearing all browser data - See if your account has [security restrictions](https://www.algosec.com/resources/what-are-firewall-rules/) that might prevent you from viewing Youtube videos ### macOS Applying repair strategies for Youtube problems is the greatest solution when a black screen or error messages claim that you cannot view a Youtube video. You can try various troubleshooting methods when Youtube videos would not play on macOS. #### Clean Browsing History A cluttered web browser cache may cause your Youtube videos to fail from running on macOS Safari. So, you must try cleaning out the cache in your device. 1\. Launch Safari and click “Preferences” after dropping down the menu.  2\. Next, click the “Advanced” tab on the other window and select “Show Develop Menu.” 3\. Lastly, select the “Develop” drop-down option after you exit the preference window and click “Empty cache.” #### Try To Apply Troubleshooting Hacks 1\. Press your keyboard’s “F5” key to reload Youtube’s web browser. 2\. Try to exit with all open websites. 3\. Activate JavaScript by going to settings, then select “show advanced settings > privacy section > content settings.” In content settings, choose “allow sites to run JavaScript.”  4\. Firmly press and hold the “Shift” key as you restart Safari after quitting. 5\. Try a different web browser. 6\. Try to view the video through a different account or while in Safe Mode.   #### Double-Check Safari Extensions Verify whether any [downloaded extensions](https://support.apple.com/en-ph/HT203051) are preventing you from seeing Youtube videos. First, you must deactivate all your extensions before reactivating them one by one while reloading Youtube to spot any issues.  1\. Launch Safari, select “Preferences > Extensions,” and uncheck the box beside it to deactivate all safari extensions. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IOuy-nrGSDCtjgXaq9wpV3bTnXRo6qzbrDJMqGRESXEJjbLBTwEKD05Cum53R1qXEYvZpa-TQQh87lpuCk73kyVx1Fao4GjlDHlZGhb_63hg3rMg8baQBKD99uBwrNznYmH7WQrBo4ZlRALA) [Image Source](https://pdf.wondershare.com/macos-10-15/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-macos-10-15.html) 2\. Repeat step 1, and uncheck a different extension for each round if the issue still occurs after reloading your Youtube browser. Mark the checkboxes corresponding to any extensions that need to be restored.  3\. If you can locate the troublesome extension, uninstall it entirely from your device. Hit the malfunctioning extension in the Extensions menu and choose “Uninstall.” #### Verify Youtube HTML 5’s Function Check if your device has the necessary components for using Youtube’s HTML 5 options. 1\. Launch Safari, type “[https://www.youtube.com/html5](https://www.youtube.com/html5)” in the address box, and press enter. 2\. After the automated system check-up, select and update all the necessary features that need to be updated. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/CbO_oAiiS95_a7kwGSt0XVzAdndmd4VX5J3DkFPHwCLaqdo7X0Pt387GOaRlcVWLbRBsyrlsxl_bJGvKdlm8FiidUi6KN3PjdpE4_LVwg3T8m1-69VLcf5otPloa2NyS7HBc6lcV_B5HbPZp) [Image Source](https://pdf.wondershare.com/macos-10-15/fix-youtube-videos-not-playing-on-macos-10-15.html) ### Phone When Youtube videos need to be fixed on your mobile phones, it is annoying because it hinders your smooth video streaming experience. That is why here are four methods that could assist you in permanently resolving this problem. #### Reboot Your Phone Try switching off and restarting your phone. Your device will resume after a reboot, and it can resolve any small software glitches preventing Youtube videos from playing. 1\. Firmly press the power button on the right side of your phone.  2\. On the screen, a power icon will show. To switch off your device, slide the icon from left to right. 3\. To ensure your phone has enough time to shut down completely, let it rest for about a minute before turning it back on.  #### Fix Your Wi-Fi Connection Like restarting your phone, restarting Wi-Fi may fix software issues that may result in poor Wi-Fi connectivity. 1\. Navigate to settings and select Wi-Fi to switch your Wi-Fi on and off.  2\. To turn the Wi-Fi off, press the button beside it.  3\. To reactivate, hold the button down for a short while and enter the Wi-Fi password to connect.  #### Try To Update The Youtube App Verify that your Youtube app is upgraded to its latest version. To fix flaws in the program and add advanced features, Youtube developers constantly update their applications.  1\. Launch the App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android phones. 2\. Navigate your screen to the “Update” section by scrolling down or directly searching for the Youtube app.  3\. Lastly, click the “Update” button beside the application if there is a necessary software update.  #### Try To Uninstall And Reinstall You might be required to remove and reinstall your Youtube application if it has a more complex software problem.  Once you delete the app, it will delete all the data and settings associated with the program. Reinstalling the program will make it appear as if you have just installed it for the first time.  ## Effective Solution Explained As a Youtube user, you must follow the techniques listed in this guide to help fix the problem if the videos you want to watch won’t start.  Whether you use a computer or a phone, you can always find a workable solution. You can discover how to troubleshoot internet connectivity, clear browsing data, deactivate browser extensions, and more in this article. Do you find this post informative? Read more of my “how-to” articles regarding the Youtube application that you may apply for future purposes.  - [How To Convert Youtube Videos To Mp3?](https://alejandrorioja.com/?s=youtube) - [How To Make Youtube Videos: A Comprehensive Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-youtube-videos/) - [How To Download Youtube Playlist: A Comprehensive Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-youtube-playlist/) Please drop your sentiment in the comment section to let other Youtube subscribers know how you effectively troubleshoot your device whenever you encounter issues like this. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## The Power of ChatGPT: From Customer Service to Lead Generation Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/the-power-of-chatgpt-from-customer-service-to-lead-generation/ Published: 2023-01-25 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that can communicate with you as a human would. It has been built to understand your questions on various topics and deliver comprehensive solutions. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Understanding how much power ChatGPT holds can help you for various reasons. It can benefit you positively or negatively, depending on how you use it. Before truly depending on it, you should be aware of everything first about this ai chatbot system. Remember that the information you collect in this ai tool is only artificial and limited. And this means the responses may seem rational and correct,  but this bot can’t understand or work the same reasoning as an actual human. There will be a time that this system may not provide you with the information you’re looking for since its data is limited. hatGPT, an AI-based chatbot system, is the current trend because of its universal language processing tool with remarkable capabilities. Whether you want to ask some questions about a particular topic or tell stories, you can use ChatGPT. And then, the bot will respond with relevant, natural-sounding responses and topics.  The whole process and interface simulate a human conversation, resulting in genuine interaction with the bot. Curious about what this trendy ChatGPT is? Continue reading this article I prepared for you to further your understanding of the ChatGPT features, how it works, its benefits, and many more. ## What is the so-called ChatGPT? ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that can communicate with you as a human would. It has been built to understand your questions on various topics and deliver comprehensive solutions. Even though the responses aren’t always accurate, the bot makes you feel like you’re speaking with a real person. This [tool](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) is also a device learning model for NLP or natural language processing. To generate human-like writing, it employs Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3 (GPT-3), one of the most complex autoregressive language models. ## How does ChatGPT work? ChatGPT is a learning model that employs a transformer-based neural network in generating text that mimics human speech. Because of its structure, the model can process incoming text and make replies similar to what a human can produce. Take a look at the pictures below to further understand how ChatGPT works. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/2oieFN4yZ_k8NPNDMqa-qDsCM6oA9Ti8GVzwnRClMLpL5pjYv3H1u-2T8KpBBn1ahpmuAAmJC87ScS-hgvPGuvGJBuvZ4h-gKeSwezP0UoM2_5DxHvxCEpQWuHFlCaRlTK_YRIo3p6CSkdF_BtK9byLOrqufVi9oWtqxt9VQglO-S3AM57FAwRctt900XA) [Image Source](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Ez5cH2M0uvpu_TiEMZHdpF7K0eu8ktorMP79fhOhouJkhOIvG2itJH5dgVgFv37GHD-tr1fn7fd8vG6H7sYic3d9p64z2E13as575tjqSxMQWGw-R2r_C4er9Nra_iaQ768t3gsqxQvB1zn-jqDjounbOJudZc5aAo3vHvSBaYcpsDv-CZnK9GsnjqDzzQ) ## Great Applications of ChatGPT ### Can Interpret Various Concepts ChatGPT is also beneficial for learning about numerous subjects from various fields. You name it: language, history, science, engineering, etc.  Want to know how to build a portable table? Ask for step-by-step instructions from the AI chatbot. Are you curious about why cats prefer to stay in high places? ChatGPT is only one click away.  You can also ask that the bot help you with workloads or assignments. ### Construct Unique and Creative Ideas ChatGPT is ideal for a fun and effective brainstorming method. And one of the features of ChatGPT is that it may support you in brainstorming ideas and problem-solving solutions.  To utilize [ChatGPT](https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2022/12/21/chatgpt-everything-you-really-need-to-know-in-simple-terms/?sh=60c612bccbca), enter a topic or problem you wish to discuss. ChatGPT will then ask questions to guide you in coming up with ideas.  Generally, ChatGPT is an excellent resource for both individuals and organizations. It’s a great strategy for everyone to think creatively and develop ideas. You can try it the next time you need to come up with an idea. ### Inscribe Codes This particular ChatGPT feature may be useful whether you’re a programmer or someone who is still starting. Ask the [AI chatbot](https://www.businessinsider.com/chatbots-talking-ai-robot-chat-machine) to do it if you’re having trouble creating code for a certain situation. You may also tell it directly the programming language you plan to use, and it will write the code for you. So for testing purposes, I requested the ChatGPT to develop the Python code for a terminal-based tic-tac-toe game. I then saved the code to my PC as a python file and ran it in the Terminal, which worked perfectly. ### Debug Codes  If you’re a programmer, one of ChatGPT’s uses that will surely come in handy is when fixing your code and even identifying some faults. Also, if you ask ChatGPT to check a piece of code for defects, it will also explain the issue and provide a potential solution. ### Extract Information From Texts This bot can also help you extract data from large amounts of text. You have to feed the bot words and tell it what type of data you want and what format you need. ### Can Serve as Personal Assistant Setting up a chatbot interface and using ChatGPT to produce replies to user inputs is one way to utilize ChatGPT as a personal assistant. For instance, you may ask ChatGPT questions about a topic or assign it tasks, and it would provide suitable replies or actions based on its grasp of language and context. Depending on your requirements and goals, you may utilize ChatGPT as a personal assistant in various ways. Answering inquiries, making recommendations, scheduling, and task management are some of its possible uses. ### Enhanced Customer Support Businesses are already using chatbots to supplement their customer care network. And ChatGPT is a type of chatbot that is more advanced and effective than the usual chatbot. Organizations can provide better customer care experiences. Proving that, with the help of ChatGPT, their customer support system is much better than those [businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-live-chat-software-to-download-for-small-businesses/) that use other chatbots. ### Research Tool You can use ChatGPT as a research tool to create replies to prompts or inquiries on a certain topic. For example, ChatGPT can create replies to open-ended questions or prompts about a particular field of study, such as psychology, politics, or history.  Aside from that, you can also use this to develop ideas or study many points of view on a certain subject. Overall, this has the potential to be a beneficial research tool for a wide range of applications, depending on the researcher’s aims and needs. ## In what field can you use the ChatGPT? It is widely recognized that ChatGPT can assist businesses in creating various [content](https://alejandrorioja.com/visual-content-for-your-marketing-campaigns/) that is more likely to attract the attention of their target audience and promote interaction. As long as it involves content creation, ChatGPT can help. And some of those businesses mentioned that might use ChatGPT to their advantage may include the following: 1. Lead Generation 2. Content Generation 3. Market Research 4. Virtual Assistant 5. Customer Service 6. Language Translation 7. Code Generation 8. Business Planning 9. Project Management 10. Data Analysis 11. Document Generation ## Perks of Employing ChatGPT ### Getting Human-Like Responses Being able to have a human-like response is the first thing I have noticed in ChatGPT. Since this AI tool is trained on having a large dataset of human-to-human conversations, it can develop impressive replies and a natural transition from one message to the next. Generally, it gives the vibe of casually talking to someone about your given topic. ### Adaptable ChatGPT’s capacity to learn and adapt is one of the benefits we should notice. As the chatbot interacts with more people, machine-learning methods can improve its language understanding and answers over time. And this implies that as it acquires experience, the chatbot will grow increasingly proficient at managing your inquiries and requests. ### Context-Dependent Another benefit of this AI tool is it can assess the context of a conversation and provide replies relevant to the topic quickly and easily. And this enables the chatbots to have a more appealing and engaging discussion with their users. ### Improved Process of Natural Language ChatGPT is useful in enhancing natural language processing (NLP systems) by giving a more realistic and accurate text beneficial for testing and training purposes. In that way, it can help these NLP systems to understand further and respond more in a human language. ## Are there any restrictions in using ChatGPT? After knowing the benefits of using ChatGPT, you should consider whether it has limitations. Although one of the main benefits of this tool is that you can easily get a vast amount of information with a quick query, AI tools are not always correct. And that is the most common drawback of this tool.  There are times when the information is biased and low quality since all its data has been trained. As a result, this may cause misinformation and wrong decisions. That is why it is crucial to properly use ChatGPt and other AI tools while understanding their restrictions.  ## How to get started with ChatGPT? When using ChatGPT, there is a website that we need to visit to access the ChatGPT model itself, which is [http://chat.openai.com/](http://chat.openai.com/). And to fully get started and experience the world of ChatGPT, you must undergo the following steps. ### 1\. Click Log In or Sign In Your Account First things first, the most common step that you need to go through when using any application is by creating your account.  When you visit the chatGPT site, you will encounter an interface with two options: the login and sign-up buttons. If you are a beginner to this app, you will click the sign-up button to create your account.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wDPl7lURA6n5O8udK3kwHHO8aD9-L4AbkIxkHU_jajTrxqY-72N9zj6pGoKis5EYVLn5HuhAq6paXdfxOvzwoa6duCxOvwtLhKfjSyLKocCQDkDB26a9TZ5zZske5H0u54uX5KaGPBnRKMOC8jMr_uCPMdDF3ZEe_pNwkZ3L0pH2VPOBZXBAdcYi6sF3yw) [Image Source](https://sf.ezoiccdn.com/ezoimgfmt/decentralizedcreator.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ss2.png?ezimgfmt=ngcb1/notWebP) You can use your Google or Microsoft email account when signing up. Aside from that, you can also continue with other email addresses you have.  Then after that, you also need to enter our mobile numbers to receive an OTP that you will use for verification. But if you already have an account, choose the login option and enter your login details. ### 2\. Start Using ChatGPT Right after the login or sign-up process, the screen will show you the limitations, objectives, feedback, and data collection of ChatGPT, which will serve as a set of previews. And this means that the registration/application for ChatGPT is a success, and you can now use it.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FEUxcao6cr23ooiu1PjTJbuZMlxvHFDPXFIPdQE0F8VwdajWVSlRoLz3AU3m7r1jfYtTTslREdm0hzVCbzqhwxpj8dxgSGi95Rj-EJj3qOGT9Gbliz1b8PonIlZHL8aKzUg5dNs74_oWqAV-DgdrMKGDAW6QUyRWfMhjWLNoqPG-fWVjILa6v-PMXrdhfg) [Image Source](https://sf.ezoiccdn.com/ezoimgfmt/decentralizedcreator.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ss3-1024x478.png?ezimgfmt=ng:webp/ngcb1) Following that, the user interface will appear, showing you some of the capabilities, limitations, and examples of ChatGPT. And below that, a box is placed where we can type our inputs.  Anything you want to know, as long as you type it in the natural human language, you will get a response from ChatGPT. But before getting a response, click the arrow to proceed. ### 3\. Edit Data or Use The “Reset Thread” Function Upon receiving the result, and if you are not pleased with the content, you can click the “Try Again” option above the box of the input query. But if you are still unsatisfied with the results, you can edit your input query with the “edit icon.”  After that, click the “Save & Submit” button. Fortunately, ChatGPT has a feature where you can follow up, stay on chatting, and edit the input until you get the desired result. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Kp035OxAO61zBPLc54zssguflt2nfsAhkCsLIOSq-VrQQQ7GYeHfP7mfdRPQB1LWyCi8yHalI70lM1I8ALn1I12LsXP_HbBbgmzUICdGHQLeqrww67aMt14j4NMKMr0rcvmcfj3pWknpPM4SpjjLwGvmUFg5QZUm_3sNt5EFbRdXcuZyM0a8uGeiub0vAg) [Image Source](https://sf.ezoiccdn.com/ezoimgfmt/decentralizedcreator.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ss4-1024x501.png?ezimgfmt=ng:webp/ngcb1) You can also click the “Reset Thread” option to start a new set of input queries. And this option is located on the upper left side of the menu. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gwh1_JE0nHq2fvJT7PVzU3EsS3ILikn6VBxVWX9z5y6kQyRe9MBLr3R3phA6lganOHl-zmiY4j1pR6gcmyuEK6dY2G_sVrO4mziDvL8AMtFgVAssRuwgtXQyLwo5dZ2xh-Kcz2avODFir-aZ9kaA2PuCJtLPgRotzJCW1Skc-0a7Ip98u2hXvXfPnwYcLA) [Image Source](https://sf.ezoiccdn.com/ezoimgfmt/decentralizedcreator.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ss5-new-1024x495.png?ezimgfmt=ng:webp/ngcb1) ## ChatGPT: A Key To The Future Lead Generation Although ChatGPT is still developing, the later releases will have plenty to offer. Despite this, it is one of the most advanced multi-utility AI-based chatbots. ChatGPT’s allure is enhanced because it is free and easy to use, as you can also use this chatbot to borrow and expand on ideas. As previously stated, there are also some restrictions to utilizing the bot as a study tool or major source of knowledge because the bot can retrieve erroneous information. Therefore, validating the chatbot’s information with reliable secondary sources is crucial. You can share your thoughts in the comment section below on what you think about this ChatGPT AI Tool. If you enjoyed this article, check out the other articles I published about other AI tools that may help you. 1. [Review Of Jasper.AI: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing](https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-jasper-ai/) 2. [A Complete Guide To Nansen.ai And Its Features](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-complete-guide-to-nansen-ai-and-its-features/) 3. [How Jasper.ai Is Changing The Way We Interact With Technology](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-jasper-ai-is-changing-the-way-we-interact-with-technology/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## How YouTube Channel Keywords Impact Video Optimization? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-youtube-channel-keywords-impact-video-optimization/ Published: 2023-01-12 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Finally, using relevant keywords can increase views on videos by up to 300%. You can use Google Keyword Planner or YouTube Keyword Tool to find keywords for your channel. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line YouTube channel keywords are the words or phrases that describe what you do, your brand, and your business. When you add keywords to your videos, those keywords will appear in the search results when people search for content related to your topic.  If you have a new video coming out and want to find an audience interested in it, using keywords will help increase the chances of getting found by potential viewers. Keywords are the building blocks of content marketing. They help people find your content and understand what they’ll get when they click on it. That’s why they’re so important.  But did you know that YouTube has its own set of keywords too? And if you care about getting found by your audience, you should be using them!  In this post, I’ll explain exactly how YouTube channel keywords work and why they’re important for creating effective channels that bring in new subscribers and viewers. ## YouTube Channel Keywords: What Are They?   Youtube channel Keywords are the words people use to find your videos on YouTube. They help you [get more views](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/), comments, and likes. They also help you to get better rankings in search results and subscribers. When dealing with keywords, you’ll come across two basic types: long-tail keywords and short-tail keywords. Unlike long-tail keywords, short-tail ones are less specific. This is because these tend to be used only by a very small group of people who have similar interests as yours.  Whereas short tails can be used by many different types of viewers with various interests (e.g., someone searching for “best workout routine” might also be looking for “cardio exercises”). The Youtube platform is set up to try and help what viewers want when they search for things related to your content. As such, the right keywords will have a huge role in [Search Engine Optimization](https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2019/08/23/the-amazing-ways-youtube-uses-artificial-intelligence-and-machine-learning/?sh=712ce4ef5852) for YouTube’s algorithm. ## Importance Of Channel Keywords  YouTube channel keywords are important because they help people find your videos. If you don’t include a keyword in the title or description of your video, it will not be found by anyone, and no one will watch it. They also help you [rank higher](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-rank-your-youtube-videos/) in search results, which means more viewers can find you on YouTube and watch your content. This is especially important when trying to grow an audience as millions of channels out there have millions of subscribers, but few with high numbers like yours! Finally, using relevant keywords can increase views on videos by up to 300%. ## How To Find Keywords For YouTube  You can use Google Keyword Planner or YouTube Keyword Tool to find keywords for your channel. You should use free tools if you have a small budget and want to save money on SEO services.  Tools such as YouTube Analytics or Google Trends are free to use instead of paying high fees from an agency with tons of experience in this field. Those tools will give you more accurate results than paid services because they’re based on real data rather than guesswork or intuition. ## How To Add YouTube Keywords It’s easy to see YouTube tags if you’re wondering how. The YouTube tag viewer is located in the “video details” section, underneath the video description and thumbnail options.  Your keywords can be incorporated either while you upload your video or while editing it. This is simple enough; you can incorporate the tags using a YouTube tag viewer.  It is advisable to start by adding the keywords, followed by several additional search terms that are still pertinent and relevant to the video. There is an overall character restriction of 500; however, you are not required to complete this if you don’t want to.  Using different niche-relevant search terms is acceptable and might even be advantageous.  Add a keyword to your video title. For example, if you want to add the word “sneakers” to your title, type it in bold: “Sneakers.” This will show up as a bolded word and help viewers find your channel more easily when searching for related videos. Also, adding keywords to your description and tags can be very helpful. These words can be added directly below or above the video itself (or both).  ## What To Put In YouTube Channel Keywords? First, you must ensure that your keywords are relevant to your channel. You can’t use the same keyword over and over again because it will start to get spammy and annoying for viewers. Instead, try using different keywords in each video so that you don’t lose the interest of your audience by repeating yourself too much. Next, make sure each keyword has some meaning behind it. Add popular keywords to attract more traffic and more viewers. ## Best Practices For YouTube Channel Keywords  Below are some of the best practices and approaches toward adding keywords to your channel: ### 1\. List your Potential Channel Keywords It would be best if you first decided which words and phrases best describes your channel. These should be a group of words that, in your opinion, best characterize your channel. Your [keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) for videos may also turn up some well-known terms. You probably have the channel keywords in mind. Then, you must include a few well-known phrases that consumers use to search for the kind of material you produce. It is preferable to list your possible keywords in the Google Doc for simple modification. ### 2\. Use 6-9 Keywords in Your Video Title, Description, and Tags: The range of the things you cover should be covered, but you shouldn’t go too far. The significance of each term will be diminished if you utilize a large number of them.  Comprehending the channel’s overall topic and category can be challenging when utilizing too many channel tags alone. They don’t start out being extremely descriptive. Because of this, you need to include 6–9 keywords, typically ranging from 50–75 characters. The ideal spot for channel keywords is 50 characters. Once you reach 50 characters, your benefits start to decrease. Make sure each keyword is relevant to the content of your videos. ### 3\. Use YouTube Auto-suggestions  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/H1CnSws5qLZwQnNDGn5NwlfhMu50o8RTUz8eWUstuWK5mXJ-Pyd3hS2Lnbkufj_-5UGMe9bC78N-FIlVW5YKIW9qZy7soQ15D2QrRX7t6XO70i-EFLBUuZHWCG2e2nXOUv4zx5FnMIIT5wWzCZLLCP381Rg5ec5S-XhBy8MzZ6kv25X63h1n-a1TcpGEDg) This feature helps users find what they need. Auto-suggest is what generates the recommendations you get on YouTube! So do take advantage of the suggestions from auto-suggest because these keywords are likely being offered because they are frequently searched terms for that subject. ### 4\. Your Target Keyword Should Be Your First Tag When prioritizing material in their search results, YouTube primarily factors your video’s initial few tags, particularly the first tag. Therefore, ensure the keyword you wish to target is in your first tag. ## Tips For Choosing The Right Keywords  Your keywords should be based on what you want to achieve. You can also use tools like LongTailPro and SEMRush to help you search for long-tail keywords that are likely to perform well in YouTube searches. These long tails might include phrases like “how do I make money on YouTube,” “how much money does it take for me to start my own YouTube channel,” or “how do I get started with making videos?” These types of searches may be good candidates for your video titles and descriptions! ## Best Channel Keyword Tools A few tools can help you find popular keywords for your channel. Keywordtool.io is one of the most popular, but there are others to consider as well: ### 1\. Keyword Tool Dominator –  This program also lets you add multiple keywords at once and see their rankings in relation to each other (e.g., “puppy training” vs. “how much does it cost?”). It gives you detailed information about each keyword, including traffic, cost per click, and more! ### 2\. Tubebuddy  This tool will give you suggestions based on what others have searched for in the past. So it’s useful if someone else has already used a certain term before and shared their experience with others who might benefit from hearing about how much fun it was too! ### 3\. Ubersuggest If you’re unable to invest in a keyword tool that provides you with a good search volume, Ubersuggest is a YouTube keyword tool that can advise and assist you. It provides you with insightful information on the search for your prospective client. Ubersuggest can provide numerous options based on what your clients are searching for when you enter a keyword topic linked to your business. ### 4\. Keyword Tool.io  An excellent tool that lets you search for common phrases using only their fundamental terms rather than receiving suggestions. A premium version costs $88 monthly if you want to subscribe to Pro Plus. For those looking for monthly subscription plans, these range from $69 to $159.  The free plan offers access to essential features but has some restrictions. You get features ranging from AdWords competition, CPC estimations, and keyword search volume. Even keyword recommendations are provided here.  This is a worthy investment if you want traffic to your channel. ### 5\. YouTube Tool This program can collect keywords from a competitor’s YouTube video. The program will return your results once you enter the URL. ### 6\. Ahrefs YouTube Keyword Tool  The Ahrefs YouTube Keyword Tool is more pricey but more capable. This program is your best choice if you want to see the actual search volume for a keyword rather than the predicted volume provided by all the other tools. The tool has all the features you would expect from a competent keyword tool, including filters, lists, related keywords, and an easy-to-use UI. ## Bottom line If you want to expand your channel, you must choose the right keywords. You want to make sure they are relevant and will be an effective way of bringing in new viewers. The best way to do this is by using tools like Keyword Planner, Google Adwords Keyword Tool, or YouTube Keyword Tool. Did you find this post helpful? Find out more about how to improve your keyword strategy: - [Highest CPC Keywords and Best Adsense Niches – 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) - [Improve SEO With Google Autocomplete:](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-google-autocomplete-for-seo/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2022 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Be Safe From Hackers On Omegle Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-safe-from-hackers-on-omegle/ Published: 2023-01-10 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The Internet has changed people’s communication preferences considerably. People can hold conversations with one another and have fun on Omegle; bots and other online criminals are not allowed to disrupt users’ conversations.  Ease may have a downside. Spammers and hackers target innocents.  Following the methods below to secure your data may enjoy Omegle without being scammed or harassed. Follow these procedures for a hassle-free discussion. Omegle is a popular chat app that connects strangers from around the world. Similar apps have operated for years without major security breaches.  Trained hackers sometimes hack your credentials and all your info for personal gain. Text and video chat users are often overly nice and reveal sensitive information online. are all common online risks. Omegle and other anonymous chat networks might expose users to unwanted attention, violence, fraud, stalking, harassment, and blackmail.  Lucky for you, I’ll give you some tips on how to stay safe on Omegle and avoid getting hacked. Read on if you want to find out more. ## Is Omegle Secure? You’ll be safe if you don’t let your guard down on [Omegle](https://www.newsweek.com/asian-hate-racism-omegle-tiktok-video-1606440). Sharing pictures and videos with your friends on Omegle can be great fun.  But scammers and hackers could use the pictures you post online to get information about you. Knowing some basic security hacks and tips can help you enjoy this chat platform without worrying about blackmail or hacker threats. A lot of people want to know if Omegle is safe. Omegle puts you in touch with many strangers quickly, which can cause problems and challenges.  The privacy of the site is not safe either. Because the site is “unregistered,” users think that content is not saved or collected.  In reality, the service keeps track of every chat. Up to four months since most users share at least one piece of personal information (like their name, address, phone number, or email address), your identity is saved even if you don’t sign up. As long as the [site](https://balanceinbusiness.org/8-greatest-omegle-options-to-talk-with-strangers/) saves content that has been shared, hackers and people can still find it. Some hackers have shown that getting into the site’s server is not hard.  One hack even takes screenshots from what was thought to be a private video chat and downloads them from the website.  ## Is Omegle Completely Anonymous? No, the service saves all chats. So, you are no longer anonymous if you have told someone your name, phone number, or email address through the service. The recorded online conversations are saved in a way that makes it easy for anyone who knows a little about hacking to steal them. This means that your personal information and dirty chats could be used to harass or blackmail you. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1vYnckPVlvxfOmHfMtFUQ3DIQTmr9N0xiMECAjo94Hst40n4KDII63PgyTU5mwaRuKMzTQTkIhxBya45EWcL3sYf-HaXGmK2tEhTERXb6ws0aHmuW3TUUMDpFB4ltcE4mOyt1RId8oW8dBc12I5wjREGDv1KySrUgLk3g8yhr9kEsLNei_jPirQINS2GCA) ## Can Omegle on Phone be Hacked? Yes, but it’s not likely. You can talk to a random person on Omegle. Now, hackers will pretend to be someone trustworthy or interesting. Your IP address is the only piece of information hackers can get from Omegle without breaking into the Omegle servers, which is almost impossible. Hackers can do some things with your IP, but not much. ## How Do I Hide my IP on Omegle? You’re wrong if you’ve always believed that no one can follow you when you use Omegle. On Omegle, your IP address can be used to find you.  Your country, city, and general location can be found in your IP address. In short, your IP address can show where you live when you use Omegle. This chat service is not as safe as it sounds. Online predators watch the site because no one has to give their real names.  On Omegle, blackmailing is also pretty common, and the victim’s IP address is often used to track them down. Because of this, you need to be very careful when using Omegle. And by “[safety](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/),” we mean ensuring that your IP address doesn’t get out.  There are a few good ways to avoid having your IP address tracked on Omegle. Using a VPN service is the most effective of all of them. ### Three Methods to Keep Your Omegle IP Address Private If you use Omegle or want to use it without worrying about your IP address being traced, you can use one of three things we found to be fairly efficient.  #### Virtual Private Network (VPN) A VPN is the best approach to protect your IP address on Omegle or other dangerous platforms. VPNs offer servers around the world you can connect to for internet security. Premium VPN providers offer thousands of servers from which to change your IP. So, if someone tries to blackmail you on Omegle and tracks your IP, they’ll only be able to trace the VPN’s IP address, leading them nowhere. A VPN offers several security features to keep Omegle users safe. Kill switch, AES 256-bit encryption, split tunneling, no-logs, etc. #### 2\. Proxy Sites Proxy sites are like VPNs but less secure. This method’s third spot makes sense. They disguise your IP address from websites and apps but don’t provide encryption or security. So, while websites you visit see a proxy server’s IP, your actual IP address is exposed if the connection fails. These sites don’t use DNS. Thus their queries are sent through a third-party DNS server that can see your IP address. #### 3\. Tor Browser Tor is an open-source browser that keeps you anonymous online and prevents ISP and website tracking. It routes all traffic through its encrypted server system, called the Circuit. So, websites would know your traffic is from Tor. Tor is a secure browser. If you choose it, don’t worry. ## What Do Hackers Do With Your IP? Your IP address is needed for [online communication](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/). A hacker can steal your location and online identity using your IP address. They might hack your device, steal your identity, and use this information. You could be in trouble if someone with bad intentions discovers your IP address. Say you announced your vacation on social media. A burglar can find your house and rob it while you’re away with a little additional digging. Internet connection employs ports and IP addresses. A hacker with your IP can brute-force a connection and take control of your phone, stealing your information. A thief could install malware on your device to expose your IP if they gain access. ## How to Stay Safe on Omegle Omegle is becoming more popular. Online chat room and social networking site users should be aware of various threats, such as hackers. Only trust feeds hackers. They spot vulnerable accounts.  Only self-defense can assure your protection. Your behaviors on Omegle could affect your safety when hackers search for your photos and videos. ### 1\. Don’t Give Out Personal Details Not just on Omegle but everywhere [online](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-on-growing-snapchat-followers/). Many people are looking for personal information like emails and phone numbers.  These snoops might act like regular users and steal information from other users. ### 2\. Don’t Answer Age, Sex, or Location (ASL) Questions Quite a few Omegle users like to use it (those looking for instant communication). Unless the user’s goal is the same, ASL should be the same as being disconnected right away. ### 3\. Don’t click on links to other sites. Most cyber fraudsters use Omegle to install malware on innocent victims’ computers. Once the link is clicked, the software downloads and wreaks havoc.  A phishing link clones a legitimate firm and prompts a person to log in, collecting their login information. ### 4\. Chat Only, Avoid Video Calls Although this may not be required, it is a good practice to exclude “crooked” individuals. To avoid exposure to pornographic content on Omegle, it is advised to use the text-only version of the chat service. ### 5\. Don’t Share Your Social Media Accounts People typically provide much personal information on their social media profiles. This makes it risky to disclose social media profiles with arbitrary individuals, especially those encountered on Omegle.  It might drive someone to hand over their social media account to a bot, resulting in them receiving unpleasant messages and, in most cases, being hacked. ### 6\. Disconnect When Strangers Spam Messages If someone acts weird or sends you spam, it’s time to stop talking to them. Omegle makes disconnecting so simple.  To leave the chat, you must click “Stop” to leave the chat and confirm that you want to leave. It’s not a problem to get back online.  Since more than 20,000 people use Omegle daily, it shouldn’t be hard to find someone to talk to. It is best to end the chat with a spammer instead of talking to them. ## Bottom line Omegle is an excellent stranger-messaging application. On the other hand, unfamiliar people present a risk occasionally.  It is essential to screen out potentially harmful individuals to effectively communicate and have a pleasant experience using this novel platform.  You just need to read this article thoroughly to learn how to do it. Like this article? Leave a comment below about what it was like to talk to strangers on Omegle. Also, read more about how to stay safe on the internet in other articles I’ve written: - [Who Viewed Your Instagram Account? Everything You Need To Know](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-check-who-visits-your-instagram-account/) - [How To Fix The Browsing Error “Your Connection is Not Private”?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-your-connection-is-not-private-error/) - [Three Easy Ways To Unlock Your Snapchat Account](https://alejandrorioja.com/three-easy-ways-to-unlock-your-snapchat-account/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A note on the safety-and-privacy framing of this post: the underlying tactic (anonymous email, anti-tracking, etc.) is more relevant than ever in 2026 with state-level privacy laws (Texas TDPSA + CA CPRA in the US, ePrivacy + DSA in the EU) putting actual teeth behind consent. **~83%** of US site visitors now encounter at least one consent banner per session. For the specific tools mentioned: Omegle shut down in 2023, so any guide referencing it as a live platform should redirect to Monkey or Ome.tv (the two largest 2026 successors). Email-without-verification services like SimpleLogin (Proton acquisition), AnonAddy (now AddyMail), and Firefox Relay are still recommended in 2026. --- ## Growth Marketing Strategies Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/growth-marketing-strategies-guide/ Published: 2023-01-09 Updated: 2025-12-11 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Even though growth marketing has been a popular topic of discussion for the past decade, it continues to generate a lot of interest. These days, it’s not uncommon for a company to have a dedicated growth team and a specific growth strategy. A well-thought-out growth marketing strategy will serve as a road map to help you quickly and easily expand your business. However, a large number of professionals incorrectly define this term and thereby miss out on promising development avenues. For example, they don’t [get a business phone number](https://www.mightycall.com/features/business-phone-numbers/) and lose a potential communication channel that generates revenue.  With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have a firm grasp of the meaning of growth marketing and its many advantages. Additionally, we will discuss growth marketing and how it differs from traditional marketing, alongside growth hacking. ## What Is Growth Marketing? To put it simply, growth marketing is a long-term, strategic approach to advertising that helps businesses expand in a measurable, sustainable way. To locate, attract, convert, retain, and grow customers into committed brand supporters and evangelists, this data-driven, all-encompassing strategy employs end-to-end funnel optimization.  Growth marketers are responsible for leading these initiatives by devising unique plans to attract more customers, keep the ones they have engaged, keep them coming back, and ultimately turn them into raving fans of the company. Let’s compare growth marketing to more traditional forms of advertising to help us grasp its principles. In contrast to modern marketing strategies, which prioritize long-term success, conventional approaches prioritize the success of individual campaigns. Most planning is based on speculation and assessed once a year, and the emphasis is usually on the company’s growth through acquisition. On the other hand, growth-oriented marketing plans are for the long haul and are strategy-driven. Evidence-based planning prioritizes customer acquisition, customer retention, cross-selling, and up-selling. Let’s imagine your online store is struggling to make ends meet because most clients only buy a single item. There is not enough profit on the order to cover the initial investment. If you use email marketing to stay in touch with your consumers, you can avoid any costs associated with client acquisition after the initial transaction has been made by engaging the customer and encouraging them to make additional purchases. ## How Do Growth Marketers Work? Growth marketers work cross-functionally to eliminate bottlenecks in the customer journey by optimizing and experimenting with a wide range of techniques and methods at each stage of the funnel. Here, the question becomes less about “How can we gain new customers?” and more about “How can we keep existing customers longer?” This is done by continuously enhancing down-funnel experiences with accurate targeting based on campaign data and other insights. To flourish in the long run, brands can use this method to communicate effectively with their intended demographic. To raise brand recognition, a growth marketer might publish a series of search engine optimization (SEO)-friendly blog entries; if the reader is interested, they might take a quiz; after making a purchase, they might receive an email including user-generated content (UGC) for social proof and recommendations; and so on. ## Growth Marketing vs. Growth Hacking A common misunderstanding is that growth hacking and growth marketing are similar. Whereas growth hacking is concerned with immediate outcomes, growth marketing looks at the entire picture. A closer look at the distinctions between the two is provided below: - While growth hacking focuses on quick expansion through acquisition, growth marketing targets steady expansion through a variety of methods. - Growth hacking uses data to experiment and hone a result, while growth marketing uses data to spot patterns and adjust tactics accordingly. - While growth hacking relies on manual methods that are constantly tested and fine-tuned, growth marketing relies on automated and algorithmic procedures that are fine-tuned regularly. - Unlike growth marketing, which focuses on solving problems for end users, growth hacking prioritizes organizational issues. ## Main Growth Marketing Tactics Growth marketing is not a one-size-fits-all method of advertising but rather a process of trial and error used to find the strategies, methods, and techniques that will yield the best results for a certain product, service, or venture. If you’re working on a certain brand or project, you can quickly test out the following tactics to see which ones fit before shifting your emphasis to improve on those that perform the best. To give you a better idea of what each tactic entails, here is a quick rundown: ### PPC Marketing PPC stands for “pay-per-click,” an advertising model in which businesses fork out cash each time one of their ads is clicked on. Based on keywords, platforms, and the target demographic, advertisers place bids on the perceived value of a click. PPC is used for many different types of campaign goals, such as: - Boosting revenues - Lead generation - Strengthening product recognition Relevance is the key to pay-per-click success. At any time, customers can do a targeted search for the goods, services, and data they need. When a user conducts this type of search, advertisers can show a relevant ad. An advertiser could display an ad related to pink lipstick-related in response to a user’s query for that product. ### SEO Online marketing that focuses on increasing traffic from search engines like Google is called search engine optimization marketing, or [SEO marketing](https://www.ama.org/marketing-news/what-is-seo-marketing/). There are several methods available to help businesses boost the visibility of their digital resources in search engines, as they are the most common way to find practically anything online. When discussing tactics for improving a website’s visibility in search engine results, the phrase “search engine optimization” (SEO) is often used to describe both internal and external approaches. Each major search engine uses its own formula or “secret weapon” to determine how high to place individual websites in search engine results. These formulas, or algorithms, are considered proprietary information by the main search engines and are therefore protected from public view. Marketing SEO specialists slowly reverse-engineer these algorithms through trial and error to discover the most effective search engine marketing strategies. ### Content Marketing Content marketing is a method of attracting and retaining customers via the distribution of informative and entertaining content. By strengthening the audience’s familiarity and natural trust in the brand, this strategy can help draw in new customers and increase sales. It’s evolved from a passing trend into a need for a company’s long-term success. Through content marketing, a company can increase brand recognition and familiarity with its target audience online. Simply said, a business could strengthen its position in the minds of its target audience by providing them with relevant information and engaging in meaningful dialogue. No longer is it sufficient to simply exist in the digital realm; rather, the challenge now is to stand out from the crowd and maintain audience interest and engagement. ### CRO Conversion rate optimization (CRO) is a marketing strategy aimed at boosting the percentage of website visitors who end up making a purchase. These are the carrots and sticks that will get customers to perform the required action (e.g., download a video, sign up for a subscription, place an order, etc.).  Businesses must have a CRO strategy if they want to see results from their marketing and sales initiatives. At the same time that it advertises the brand, it also inspires individuals to take action. The use of these measures contributes to the expansion of the company’s brand recognition and financial success. An effective CRO strategy begins with a website design that users trust. To ensure that your efforts to obtain bought or organic traffic are successful, your site’s navigation and usability must be first-rate. The final stage is the most complex of the process. Without compelling content, all those site visitors are useless to your organization. That’s why your website must generate prospects, subscribers, and buyers. ### Email Marketing  The term “email marketing campaign” refers to a coordinated series of emails sent to a target audience over time. Each email must have a well-worded subject line, relevant content, and a clear [CTA](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/call-action-cta.asp) to reach the campaign’s goal. Email campaigns, like other digital content, need to strike a balance between providing useful information and entertaining readers. This means not giving away too much or too little about the content to maximize click-through rates. When creating an email marketing campaign, it’s important to have content that is both focused and relevant to the broader campaign concept and target demographic. To reach out to specific demographics within their audience, marketers can employ dynamic content in more than one email. The call-to-action (CTA) button is a standard feature in email marketing campaigns, and in many cases, a secondary CTA button is included. Your call-to-action buttons should stand out without being too flashy or overwhelming. ## Growth Marketing Strategy: ARR Revenue Stage Ultimately, the revenue you bring in will determine the success of your firm. You should track these indicators to see how much money you make or lose from each client. Metrics like this are especially important for subscription-based businesses. - CLV (Customer Lifetime Value): – The quality of the service provided to the customer can be gauged in large part by this indicator. It’s a way to assess a client’s long-term worth to your business. - Average Revenue Per User (ARPU): – This indicator shows how much money you make from each user over time. Specifically, it takes the average daily users over a given period and divides that by the money made over that time. - ARR: Annual Recurring Revenue – For subscription-based goods and services, this metric is used. Annually, it calculates how much money a subscription brings in. - Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) – This metric calculates the anticipated revenue from monthly subscription sales. - Revenue churn – This metric considers the revenue lost over a specific time frame. It figures out the monthly recurring revenue (MRR) lost and subtracts the entire cost of any upgrades or additional services purchased during that month. ## Bottom line In today’s fast-paced corporate world, growth marketing is more than just a buzzword. It’s an intelligent strategy for long-term growth and expanding your company’s horizons. When drafting your strategy, carefully assess your business domain to wisely choose growth marketing tactics. While some may benefit from PPC and SEO marketing, others may find Email Marketing useful. Remember, that there is no golden rule here. Test various approaches to spot the best one. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Buffer Review: Features, Pricing & More Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/buffer-review-features-pricing-more/ Published: 2023-01-07 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Social Media Marketing ## Table of contents #### Bottom line If you need to schedule posts for many social media accounts, look no further than Buffer Publish. It’s easy to use and works with a wide variety of different marketing platforms. It’s hard to beat the free plan if you’re just starting social media marketing. It has amazing features available to help you achieve what you want while also making social media scheduling less stressful. The benefits of Buffer will be seen most strongly by small social media teams and companies. There’s a lot to appreciate here for anyone searching for a simple yet powerful means of producing and publishing more engaging content on social media. You’ll find all the buttons and links you need to get going on the main screen. Buffer has also improved its original design by adding features like Pablo, which streamlines the process of making original posts. If you need to schedule posts for social media accounts, look no further than Buffer Publish. It’s easy to use and works with different marketing platforms. In this article, I will discuss everything there is to know about Buffer.com ## Functions of Buffer As we discussed above, Buffer offers three distinct services: Publish, Reply, and Analyze. It corresponds well with three of the [most important tasks a social media manager](https://alejandrorioja.com/product-managers-in-saas-businesses/) must perform daily. Our feature review will mirror this format, focusing on the most salient aspects of each of the three goods. ### 1\. Buffer Publish Always remember to save drafts before publishing. When it comes to scheduling and publishing material, Buffer Publish shines. The site is easy to navigate, and several link-shortening tools are available. Even though adding new material is a simple procedure, some helpful extras are included. For instance, when you enter a link to share, Buffer will display a sample of how it would appear on the social networks you specify. To [increase your Instagram post’s visibility](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-story-highlight-how-to-use-it-for-brand-account/), you may add additional hashtags in a second remark. ### 2\. Buffer Reply One of Buffer’s newest features, Buffer Reply, is designed to make it easier for companies to handle social media interactions. The social inbox is a prominent component since it consolidates all incoming communications from your various social media accounts into a single stream. As a result, many companies will save significant amounts of time. Message response times for your organization may be tracked in Buffer Reply, with data that social media team members can break down. Similar to Publish, these functions need the higher-tier Business account plan. ### 3\. Buffer Analyze Analyze is the new name for Buffer Analytics, which has undergone radical changes. Although Buffer Publish does provide some basic marketing analytics tools, the Analyze package is where all of the platform’s sophisticated analytics tools can be found. The Analyze section of Buffer’s main dashboard summarizes the most recent performance improvements and shows you detailed stats for your most recent posts. The dashboard of Buffer includes a list of recent articles and graphs displaying audience growth and interaction. You can easily assess the success of your social media marketing with the [help of the headline](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-art-of-persuasion-tips-and-tricks-on-writing-effective-headlines/) statistics provided on Buffer’s main dashboard. Creator of Featured Image New templates can be created in a snap, and any graph in Buffer can be added to a dashboard by simply clicking “Add to report.”This ease of use will be appreciated by companies that have a pressing need to track and report on metrics such as audience size, interaction rate, and the number of followers. There’s also a wealth of useful information to be gleaned from the Answers section, which includes advice on when to publish, the best time of day to post, and the optimal number of media assets to employ. However, Buffer Analyze may not provide enough insight for those that seek more information regarding the efficacy of their social media advertising. On the other hand, while Analyze is a powerful reporting tool for Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, it falls short compared to its rivals for both Pinterest and LinkedIn. ## Advantages of Buffer The new UI for Buffer adds to the app’s already high usability.  It is smooth, quick, and user-friendly and helps you visualize and share superior material on social media. Pablo’s content creation capabilities, including the app’s signature drag-and-drop capability, are similarly delightful to employ. Buffer has been at the forefront of several shifts in the industry as one of the original social media management tools, such as the introduction of scheduled posts on Instagram. Thanks to the excellent Buffer software and Chrome extension, updating your social media profiles and sharing fresh material can be done with minimal disruption to your day. Buffer does exactly what it promises, which is a relief for businesses. ## Disadvantages of Buffer There’s hardly much to dislike about Buffer, especially its affordable price and all the extra features you get from post-scheduling. You may still utilize a different post-scheduler that you were using before they stopped offering free plans. You’ll respect that Buffer still offers this choice despite knowing that business needs must come first. Therefore, you can publish six articles each week across all three channels, and my following has steadily increased (and thus enhanced my reach). ## Freebies One of the most useful aspects of Buffer has nothing to do with the core tool. It’s all the free stuff. The Buffer blog, for example, is one of the greatest sources of trustworthy social media knowledge, data, and lessons. There’s also the Buffer Marketing Library, a great location for new and intermediate social media users to learn about strategy and tactics. You may access on-demand webinars that cover a wide range of social media marketing topics. Furthermore, Buffer is always releasing free reports that might assist you in making sound communications decisions. It’s a fantastic tool with built-in picture size recommendations and templates you can edit. ## Pricing When compared to other social scheduling tools, Buffer is a good value. It offers separate “Starter” and “Business” tiers for its many packages. The Starter plans are aimed at sole proprietors, with the most basic plan costing a startling $0.  A total of 3 accounts can be linked together, and each account can have 10 scheduled posts. However, if you need more, the Pro plan is only $15 a month and allows you to connect 8 accounts and schedule up to 100 posts for each account. The business side of Buffer includes options for both small and large enterprises. Priced at $99 a month, the small plan allows up to 25 accounts and 2,000 posts per user. Costing $199 a month for 50 accounts and 2,000 posts, Medium is not cheap.  The Large plan includes one hundred fifty accounts and 2,000 monthly posts for $399 per month. Advanced social analytics and other capabilities are only one of many things included in the Business plans that are unavailable on the Individual plans. ## Analytics Buffer provides a comprehensive set of metrics for tracking the success and engagement of your posts. You can see how many likes, comments, clicks, reshares, mentions, and overall reach each article has by going to the Analytics section under the Posts tab. To gain a bird’s eye perspective of the metrics most essential to you, you may sort the totals in any way you’d like, from most popular to least popular, most comments to fewest comments, and so on.  You may also Re-Buffer (reschedule to publish again) high-performing posts and any changes you’ve made. On the Analytics page, you’ll also see a graph that compares the number of daily articles with the number of daily clicks. You may customize this graphic by adding your metrics of interest. For instance, comparing the number of likes and comments might provide insight into your target audience’s interest level. ## Planning Your Social Media Posts Social scheduling has always been its main selling point. And here is where I think its greatest strength resides. Even if you’ve never used a social media scheduler before, Buffer’s drag-and-drop editor will make quick work of setting up and making changes. To schedule a post, users must go to their Buffer dashboard and choose which networks they want to update. Users may also create subgroups inside platforms to share certain content with particular subsets. The next step is to compose your piece and incorporate a relevant link. Buffer’s coolest feature is the ability to customize the presentation of links. Unlike other programs, Buffer allows you to manually enter the title, image, and description, rather than relying on automated filling features. You can use your image instead of the link.  GIFs and movies may also be shared using Buffer. Buffer will automatically take 15-second screenshots from every video you link and utilize them as featured pictures. Once you’re happy with the appearance of your article, click on Schedule time to choose when it is published.  Buffer allows you to set a publication schedule for each social media account, sticking to the days and hours you choose. You may, of course, skip posting on some days or publish to many accounts at once to accommodate various time zones.  Also, Buffer has an Optimal Scheduling feature that may help you determine the most productive times to publish to each channel. Once your articles have been scheduled, you can easily rearrange them using the platform’s intuitive drag-and-drop editor.  You may see them in a list, calendar, or randomized order if that suits your mood better. The For Review page is where you and your team’s collaborators may see postings before they go live in case any changes need to be made before they go public. ## Bottom line Many marketing technology businesses lament that their consumers do not fully utilize their platforms. Because adding fancy new features takes a lot of development time and corporate resources, they want to ensure that customers perceive the advantage. Of course, the expenses associated with these new features are usually passed on to the client. Instead, maybe marketing technology businesses should focus their spending on items that they know their clients will desire. Buffer offers a refreshingly straightforward approach to this situation. Like this post? For more helpful content, check out my other articles!  - [Top 5 Live Chat Software To Download For Small Businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-live-chat-software-to-download-for-small-businesses/) - [How Do Only Fans Make Money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-onlyfans-make-money/) - [Do I Need To Hire Writers for Niche Websites?—Top 15 Job Boards](https://alejandrorioja.com/do-i-need-to-hire-writers-for-niche-website-content/) --- _— [Alejandro](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems](/services/#agent) for founders. [See the stack →](/agentic/)_ --- ## What Is VidIQ, And How Does It Work? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-vidiq-and-how-does-it-work/ Published: 2022-12-09 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: YouTube is the most popular video hosting platform in the world. I know there is high competition for ranking videos on this platform, with millions of users and content creators on YouTube. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line VidIQ benefits you with a modern, integrated platform with all your video needs under one roof. It’s easy to create great videos with a tool like VidIQ. Use SEO-enhanced templates to find more viewers, keep your branded promotion in front of them, or even drive traffic directly to your website.  Create bespoke content that helps you fulfill your business needs—and watch as it grows in popularity on social media. From editing and composing to sharing videos across multiple social networks and websites, VidIQ fits the needs of all types of businesses! YouTube is the most popular video hosting platform in the world. I know there is high competition for ranking videos on this platform, with millions of users and content creators on YouTube. Video content makes up a huge part of its traffic right now, driving huge revenue for creators who benefit from videos that convert well. YouTube lends itself to video creation in more ways than one. There are several different types of videos you can create for your brand, and these can be shared on several platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The key to becoming a YouTube star.  Getting the most out of your YouTube channel will depend largely on how much time you put into it.  Here’s where VidIQ comes into the picture.  VidIQ is an interactive platform for marketers and creators like me who want to grow their channel and engage with their audience. I will share with you an overview of what VidIQ is. Keep on reading! ## All About VidIQ VidIQ helps create the best content with easy-to-use templates and tools, sharpening the skills of content creators so they can produce videos that attract new viewers and subscribers.  It is a popular tool used by many video creators who can separate their traffic from organic [Youtube](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) viewers through a marketing or SEO strategy. It provides more significant ROI for brands, businesses, corporations, and individuals seeking social media growth.  Maximize video [marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) with features and tools that help find, engage, and retain your audience. From SEO-enhanced videos to on-demand viewing, you can choose from a wide range of options to engage your fan base. VidIQ has a full arsenal of tools and features to help you create great videos with the knowledge that your video marketing efforts are gaining momentum. Use video analytics to target specific viewers with personalized content and promotions and track every click from view through to purchase. ## What are the key features of VidIQ? The key features of VidIQ include the following: ### 1\. VidIQ Analytics  VidIQ is the best video marketing [platform](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexandralevine/2022/09/20/youtube-targets-tiktok-with-monetization-for-creators-short-videos/) for creators and marketers to get deep insights into all actionable data about your channel. These include the following: - Number of views - Number of subscribers - Number of comments your videos have - Where were those views coming from - How much revenue did each video bring in ### 2\. Top Playlists Playlists are an integral part of the VidIQ app. They’re the cornerstone of the catalog and your social sharing with family, friends, and followers. VidIQ offers various playlists for users to choose from based on their tastes. Also, these playlists can be sorted in multiple ways to let you find just the type of content you want. ### 3\. YouTube Keyword Research VidIQ helps you find the right keyword for your brand and product by analyzing billions of searches. It works like any traditional keyword tool. However,  it’s much more powerful because it takes all the data you need in one place and gives you all that information broken down by search intent.  It also helps identify the keywords best suited for your video by leveraging powerful search engine data and machine learning algorithms. Plus, it offers a wide range list of keyword variations. Here are the keyword metrics provided by this powerful tool. #### a. Search Volume The number of people searching for a certain keyword on YouTube every month. It’s important to know how many people are searching for your brand, product, or service on YouTube so that you can benchmark against competitors and future performance. #### b. Overall Score The overall score considers the number of searches and the amount of competition.  #### c. Related Score It shows how useful the keywords are to the overall topic you typed in. This simple keyword suggestion tool rates how well a suggested keyword relates to your original word. #### d. Competition Score YouTube determines the number of videos on YouTube with the same search phrase in the text. The more results found, the higher your chance to rank higher on YouTube search results. ### 4\. Best Time to Post Best Time to Post is popular because it helps you plan your YouTube video publishing schedule. You can see the exact time your subscribers are active on YouTube and make decisions based on this information. ### 5\. Subscriber Analysis  This feature analyzes your subscribers’ habits when they’re not watching your stuff.  Subscriber Analysis lets you see what other videos your subscribers tend to watch when they’re not watching your stuff or when you have multiple channels with different types of [content](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnbbrandon/2022/10/09/mark-cuban-just-explained-why-gen-z-are-still-using-facebook/).  It is the first feature VidIQ has that lets you know all of this without having to spend hours sifting through viewer data manually. ### 6\. Embed URLs This report shows the websites where your videos get the most views. Generally, this information can help you determine whether you should keep uploading more videos and how best to improve your views. ## VidIQ Pricing Plans Basic, Boost, and Boost+ are VidIQ’s three different plans. Each one gives you access to different features, so which plan is best for you?  ### Basic Get the most out of your [video](https://alejandrorioja.com/ultimate-digital-marketing-guide-for-beginners/) marketing with VidIQ’s basic plan. The plan is available for $7.50 per month, limited to one user and channel.  Get access to email and chat support, robust video keywords, trend alerts, historical analysis tracking, live line stats, product recommendations, and more! ### Boost This powerful plan provides many great features, such as email and chat support, keyword research for 200 videos per month, 5, 10, or 15 trend alerts, and more. With monthly costs starting at $39 per user, it’s affordable and can be used by an entire team simultaneously.  Monitor competitors’ websites, plus receive instant notifications when your videos trend or save features like keyword research to refer back to later. ### Boost+ It is a top-of-the-line package and includes several powerful features. Generally, it starts at $ 415 / month and can be used by 1 user for up to 5 channels.  All the premium features are integrated into an easy-to-use interface, with full feature control available across every channel. ## Cons of Using VidIQ Regarding video editing, VidIQ is indeed a video editor for the masses. In many cases, however, its interface can be a little overwhelming, and the software is lacking in some areas.  This software is ideal for experienced content creators but not as useful for beginners. It’s expensive, has an unclear UI, and can be slow to load. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): ### Is VidIQ safe to use? Like all video software and services, VidIQ takes the latest industry practices into account to protect your data. The VidIQ YouTube plugin is completely safe.  VidIQ uses YouTube’s API, a nice feature for those who regularly use the platform. YouTube provides certification for all of its partners, including VidIQ.  And the population that uses VidIQ is large, with millions of subscribers. On top of this, the organization has lots of employees contributing to the backend technology.  They operate within YouTube’s guidelines by providing a certificate and customer support through their phone system.  ### Is VidIQ legit? Yes. VidIQ is a YouTube analytics service that captures your viewership data and presents it in a visual format, ready for action. This helps you to understand what has been happening on YouTube, where and when people are watching videos, and how to increase viewership. In short: using VidIQ’s research, you can see what works and doesn’t work and precisely measure the effectiveness of your campaigns. ## Where this leaves us VidIQ is the best YouTube analytics Chrome Extension that brings you an overview of all key performance indicators, including views and watch time.  It is a free tool that will help you keep track of your performance in terms of subscribers and other metrics. It also allows you to monitor other channels, track their analytics, see their top-performing videos, and even set up automated promo campaigns.  You can also use it to analyze the keyword trends and determine which topics are trending for good or bad. For YouTubers, it allows you to see your content at scale, find out when you are performing even better than before and improve on your mistakes quickly. This nifty tool can help you optimize your channel and drive more video traffic. It offers two free options with a paid option that works even better.   The possibilities for this software are truly endless! Like this post? For more helpful content, check out my other articles!  - [What is SEO? Learn the Basics of Search Engine Optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)   - [How to Do Keyword Research – The Complete Guide (alejandrorioja.com)](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) - [How to Get More Views on Youtube (alejandrorioja.com)](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Moosend Review: An Email Marketing Solution Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/moosend-review-an-email-marketing-solution/ Published: 2022-12-06 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line You don’t just need an automated email tool for email marketing campaigns. Tools for analytics on your website, lead conversion performance, and editing and testing email newsletters are also vital. With Moosend’s features, email marketing is possible to reach a high volume of users as well as be able to get analytics from getting leads and making strategies in converting them. Such that lead generation is automated based on the users’ performances, which makes it easier to tailor marketing campaigns suited for them. More than ever, we need marketing tools that are easy to navigate and use, especially for our [email marketing campaigns](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/). Moosend was built with such features for our email marketing tasks to be done quickly with the help of its automated features.  As we all know, reaching your contacts and getting more leads through a high volume of users is made possible with Moosend’s automated design and integration with other marketing tools. The platform is powerful enough to track your customers’ buying journey and create a workflow like making a follow-up on the items on their cart. Thus, it’s targeted at your lead conversion. Today I will walk you through [Moosend](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/moosend/) and how to use it for your email marketing campaigns.  ## What Is Moosend? [Moosend](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/moosend/) is an email marketing tool that helps you reach users through email and get more users to visit your website and landing pages for your ad campaigns.  It doesn’t just help you with your email marketing needs but also in monitoring and making progress based on your website’s analytics. Moosend can provide data on your website’s performance in terms of marketing efforts, brand awareness, and your users’ journey, which may help you convert your leads to customers. Moreover, I’ll show you the [features Moosend highlights](https://www.g2.com/products/moosend/features) and discuss how this email marketing tool works and may suit your online marketing campaigns. ## Moosend: Email Marketing Features [Moosend’s email marketing features](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/moosend/) have a set of manageable and effective functions for increasing and monitoring conversion rates and reaching out to contacts using email newsletters. ### Email Automation Moosend’s main feature is its email automation, built for easy navigation that both beginners and marketing pros can use. Email automation uses workflows to direct Moosend in responding to user behavior.  Thus, Moosend has 32 triggers, which means that in response to the users’ actions, these triggers will initiate the automation toward the goal of getting analytics and creating marketing strategies. You can customize and tailor your workflows using tags, custom fields, and more. For example, a user visited your website through an ad campaign ranked the highest on the search engine. This user action triggers the workflow as a response to the action, depending on the instructions you’ve set.  According to the set workflow, it may send an email newsletter if the user signed up or subscribed to have email newsletters or availed a discount in exchange for email updates. Moosend uses “Control Step,” an algorithm that uses conditions to execute instructions based on the created workflow. You can also filter such workflows based on user location or weather conditions. “The Split Filter,” on the other hand, works through the workflow by using a set ratio that will direct the user response. This is more likely to be used in A/B testing of your website’s features or ad campaigns to see which ones have better results. ### Lead Generation Through Moosend’s automation, audience segmentation and lead conversion have now been possible to use the consumers’ behavior to analyze and create strategies tailored to their preferences and user experience. For example, each user has lead scores based on their behaviors that may vary from the number of website visits to order purchases. The user that ordered products from your website will be more likely to have lead scores than those who have visited your site through a link. These lead scores can trigger the designated workflow to drive a lead to a paying and loyal customer.  Thus, you can still do a marketing strategy with users who have their items added to their cart. Try to drive them into purchasing it further, as you set instructions tailored for giving them discounts, cashback, or other promotions. ### Editing And Templates You’ll be able to do your email marketing campaigns in less than an hour through Moosend’s email newsletter templates, which you can customize in collaboration with your team, colleagues, or managers.  Moosend allows you to edit from their templates, [landing pages](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/), and forms since it’s time-consuming and tedious to pick and create designs that can attract users, leads, and customers for an email ad campaign. Consistent branding is also crucial when [establishing your brand’s reputation and overall look](https://alejandrorioja.com/causes-of-business-reputational-damage/).   You can tailor and curate the overall look from the email ad campaigns, your website pop-ups, and registration pages. ### Reports and Analytics Moosend offers the following detailed analysis that’s important for your email campaigns. #### Performance Review Email marketing performance, such as click rates, open rates, and unsubscribes, are provided to identify which part of the user experience needs improvement. This will help you to look at other factors that may affect such rates, like broken links or slow loading time. #### Recipient Response Once you’ve sent the subscribers’ email newsletters or promotions, their responses will be counted and therefore help you to track each of these users’ activity. You can track which of your contacts have emailed you, click the link to your landing page, or who have unsubscribed. #### Link Clicks The link clicks will provide the number of clicks on the link provided in your email to the subscribers or leads. ### Devices, Operating System, and Location You’ll be provided with the type of devices, browsers, and operating systems your contacts use, which you can use to your advantage since you can optimize your website with a user-friendly interface. Locations are also provided regarding the number of interactions in particular areas. ### Subscription And Campaigns The number of visitors, interactions, and conversion rates from the subscription forms and campaigns are also shown on the platform. ### Testing Moosend has an A/B testing feature where you can create multiple campaigns and compare how these would all perform. You can gain insight and see which of these campaigns are effective. ### Landing Pages and Forms Moosend has features besides email marketing: landing pages and forms you can build and customize. The platform also has different templates you can choose from for your brand theme consistency.  You can also share your landing pages on Facebook and Twitter and get stats where you can connect your Google Analytics or Facebook Pixel for tracking. ### Third-Party Integrations Aside from Google Analytics or Facebook Pixel, Moosend is highly integrated with many CRM and lead generation platforms. You can also connect with eCommerce services and stores like Magento, Woocommerce, and Shopify. ## The Platform User Experience More than its features, the user experience is crucial in driving leads and converting them into customers. Thus, we can look at Moosend’s user interface, user account setup, customer support, and pricing. ### User Interface Users will be engaged with Moosend, optimized for easy navigation and use. The templates have a simple, clean, and sleek design where you can add custom fields, product recommendations, eBook pages, and even webinar registration pages. It has a drag-and-drop system that is customizable to your preference.  ### Setting Up Your Account In terms of setting up your account, it has a 5-step process to get you onboard with Moosend: 1. Connect your website with Moosend 2. Create your first email list 3. Import your subscribers on Moosend 4. Set up your first “from” name 5. Create your first campaign Plus, you can use Campaign Creation Wizard, a visual guide for navigating the platform.  ### Customer Support [Moosend](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/moosend/) has a live chat support widget on every page and lets you get a quick response from an agent. These agents can also direct you to the FAQ articles for more information. The FAQs content is listed in 13 different categories and has 100 articles listed, mainly categorized on: - Audience - Campaigns - Growth Tools - Automation and more ### Pricing Moosend has a similar type of plan to other marketing tools: a free trial, a pro plan, and an enterprise plan. In the free trial, all features are free and accessible for 1 month. You can avail of the free trial with the following: - 1x Landing Page - 1x Form - Automation Workflows - Unlimited Emails With their pro plan, you can have all their features for a $9/month subscription. The pro plan includes: - Unlimited Emails - SMTP Server - Landing Pages/Forms - Automation Workflows For their enterprise plan, you need to ask for a quote, and this includes the following: - All Pro features - Account Manager - Priority Support - SSO & SAML - Dedicated IP Also, the enterprise plan supports up to 10 team members and has an account manager used in migration and onboarding. ## Pros and Cons We can summarize the platform’s remarkable features here. But it also has limitations that hinder it from being accessible to every user since some are just available on their monthly plan subscriptions. ### Pros According to other sources, [Moosend is still much cheaper](https://ecommerce-platforms.com/email-marketing-services-reviews/moosend-review) than some of its alternatives. Plus, it’s very flexible regarding its integrations with CRMs, social media, and eCommerce websites.  ### Cons The platform’s landing page builder is only accessible for the Pro and Enterprise plan. Although the services are easy to navigate with their tools and other features, it only has a few advanced tools. ## Moosend vs. MailChimp One of Moosend’s competitors is [MailChimp](https://mailchimp.com/), which also offers email marketing automation and drag-and-drop tools to customize and layout email newsletters.  Starting with their pricing, [MailChimp is more expensive than Moosend](https://bloggingx.com/moosend-vs-mailchimp/), with its $10.21/month. Although it’s more expensive, it has more advanced features than Moosend. Moosend still doesn’t have a mobile app to use on smaller devices. But it has a more user-friendly interface on browsers and different operating systems. ## To Sum Up! [Moosend](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/moosend/) has taken its features toward creating email marketing campaigns, landing pages, and subscription forms. But it’s also built with tracking and A/B testing features to help you gain insights, from click and open rates to conversion rates.  These convenient features in the platform are email automation features for an easy workflow. The features reach out to users and lead and eventually convert them into your customers. Moosend is built to cater to the user’s buying journey. Make sure to do the necessary steps in persuading and engaging these leads through email campaigns and other website marketing efforts. If you think Moosend can help you get started with your email campaign, [sign up here.](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/moosend/) Want to know other marketing tools and strategies? Check any of these posts! - [How Does Instagram Make Money? 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) - [7 Ways To Get Featured on Forbes, Mashable, Inc, Techcrunch, Entrepreneur, and others for FREE](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) - [How to Get More Views on Youtube Youtube SEO tricks for 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Can Jasper.ai Really Replace Your Copywriter? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/can-jasper-ai-really-replace-your-copywriter/ Published: 2022-11-29 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Additionally, you can access more than 50 different models you may employ. Given the proliferation of AI-based technologies, employing AI to generate content for your website, social media channels, and other online platforms makes perfect sense. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line In recent years, substantial progress has been made in AI technology. One of the latest advancements in this field is Jasper.ai, which can assist in producing content (including a copy). Jasper.ai removes barriers to creativity and makes it possible for businesses as well as individual artists to use generative AI. Generally, Jasper.ai allows anybody with a laptop to conquer writer’s block, reuse content, create original work, and translate these works into different languages. In the future, AI will undoubtedly impact how we write; nevertheless, human authors will still be necessary since various types of information need human eyes for editing and organizing purposes, and more. We have seen a quantum jump in artificial intelligence development in recent years. One of the newest developments in artificial intelligence is Jasper.ai. In terms of artificial intelligence programs, Jasper.ai may help with copywriting. Checking and maintaining the accuracy of material generated by AI is essential. Still, Jasper.ai’s Natural Language Processing (NLP) allows it to produce a very convincing copy. AI may be useful to us at various stages of the writing process, but can it completely replace copywriters? In this article, I’ll discuss whether or not Jasper.ai, or AI in general, has the potential to replace your copywriters. ## About Jasper.ai The way that [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) works is by using the little details you provide to search the internet for information relevant to the topic you want to discuss. Additionally, you can access more than 50 different models you may employ. Given the proliferation of AI-based technologies, employing AI to generate content for your website, social media channels, and other online platforms makes perfect sense. And people won’t find out that it is used for trivial tasks like outlining a [blog](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-types-of-blogs-are-most-popular/) post, even if they investigate. [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-jasper-ai-is-changing-the-way-we-interact-with-technology/) is an incredible tool, but it is not immune to making mistakes when put to its intended purpose. Not to mention, Google does not favor articles created by an AI. ## Who could use Jasper.ai? Artificial intelligence is available to everyone; however, the following applications are among the more prevalent ones: ### Bloggers Jasper.ai is an invaluable asset for any affiliate blogger or company trying to include a blog on their website to increase organic traffic. Using Boss Mode, you can produce high-quality, [search engine optimization (SEO)](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-google-autocomplete-for-seo/)\-ready blog entries, increasing monthly site traffic by hundreds or thousands of new readers. ### Entrepreneurs [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) is an easy-to-use company growth tool for entrepreneurs. There are more than fifty different copywriting templates available, so you should be able to discover some that you can use to develop interesting content and attract a wider audience. ### Marketers Marketers will find Jasper’s hundreds of copywriting templates for creating advertising, interacting with followers on [social media](https://sproutsocial.com/insights/social-media-ideas/), and crafting promotional emails to be invaluable resources. ### Agencies Use your [artificial intelligence (AI)](https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2022/09/14/how-ai-and-machine-learning-will-impact-the-future-of-healthcare/?sh=475bc6b847e5) helper, Jasper.ai, to write compelling text for marketing funnels, landing sites, and social media posts if you own a content creation firm. At a fraction of the cost, you get the equivalent of having another skilled copywriter on staff. ## How can AI Impact Writing Quality? AI has far-reaching effects on writing, including content creation, editing, and proofreading. Writers may now use AI-powered tools to research and develop material on various themes. These programs use GPT-3 technology to produce paragraphs of text based on your subject. AI software may write on your behalf and correct grammar and spelling. In addition, you may enhance your work’s flow and structure with the assistance of AI-powered writing tools. An AI writer may guide sentence and paragraph structure by analyzing human reading and comprehension habits. Therefore, anybody interested in bettering their writing abilities may find AI writing tools beneficial. ## Jasper Ai: Advantages and Disadvantages ### Advantages #### 1\. Helps with Writer’s Block Everyone who puts pen to paper aspires to create works of exceptional quality and reader interest. The advantages of employing AI writing tools include improved spelling and grammar. These resources may also inspire authors to create new material. Jasper. ai may help content marketers solve a significant problem: creating high-quality material that is also highly relevant to their target audience. In addition, you may use it to produce information in many other languages. #### 2\. Mimics Human Writing Style The ability of the Jasper AI writing tool is to emulate human writing styles makes it simpler for readers to relate to the content. Generally, the use of AI may be a solution to the problems of writer fatigue and burnout. Because of these advantages, businesses have been able to quickly and effectively expand their content production capacities. #### 3\. Saves Expenses Organizations are always looking for methods to save expenses, and using machine learning to generate content like articles, reports, and blog posts is one such method. The benefits include a reduction in expenses since AI writing tools may produce the material for a portion of the expense of human writers. As a bonus, using these resources helps businesses save money on the time and effort spent teaching employees how to write. ### Disadvantages #### Lacks Compassion While artificial intelligence has surpassed human intellect in many domains, it still lacks several essential human traits. For example, AI cannot simulate human qualities like empathy, culture, and morals. Even though it has access to a vast amount of data and has read 10% online, it would be unable to understand the human situation and respond appropriately.  #### Lacks Enthusiasm Despite AI’s development in writing, it lacks the passion a human writer has in their work. Writing demands passion. Developing strong emotional ties with one’s readership is essential to effective writing.  Although AI is very effective at analyzing data and recognizing patterns, it is incapable of imitating the nuances of human feelings Only people can infuse their work with the essential amount of passion for establishing a more profound connection with their audience. #### Artificial Intelligence is Emotion-blind [Jasper ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) can’t fathom what makes people tick. Also, if you want your writing to be persuasive, you must include an emotional appeal. Therefore, it is not enough for your writing to only provide the facts; it must also appeal to the readers’ emotions. #### Unlike humans, AI has No Concept of Business Tactics Artificial intelligence is incapable of identifying or achieving commercial goals. Both the reader’s current position and the intended destination are known to the system. If the company’s goal is to get the consumer to take some action, for instance, the writer should construct the message in a way that encourages them to do so. #### Jasper ai Does Not Verify the Information AI will always need the help of human editors, proofreaders, and researchers, all of whom are essential to producing quality work. It can only use the data and sources that human authors have previously compiled. In addition, AI is often relied upon to fabricate information. As a result, you might run into problems without adequate content control. #### Not Capable of Creative thinking Even if [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) could simulate human emotions like empathy, they still can’t replace human authors because of their lack of inventiveness. AI writers are limited to writing depending on the information provided to them. Generally, AI writing tools cannot come up with an original concept. On the contrary, the only thing that can hold back human authors is their thoughts. #### AI has No Personal Expertise One of the most important things that makes a successful writer is a lot of experience. Even the most advanced artificial intelligence won’t be able to compete with the depth of insight that an experienced human author may gain. Therefore, while Jasper AI may one day be capable of writing prose of an acceptable standard, it can only partially replace the human connection that comes from having gone through experiences. ## Can Jasper.ai Replace Your Copywriter? Tools fueled by AI may generate material so simple that it doesn’t need human investigation or insight. However, it still needs a copywriter’s help to develop brand-aligned, functional roles that tell powerful stories. Therefore, It may only simplify your life by providing you with data-driven suggestions and even assisting with original thought. AI platforms have a bright future ahead of them, and incorporating them into your workflow may be beneficial. However, there is still a long way to go before robots start taking over jobs carried out by humans. If you believe Jasper.ai will simplify your content development process, signup for the [free trial to get started.](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) Did you find this article helpful? Here are some other articles you might find interesting! - [How To Make The Best Guides To Get More Leads, Traffic, And Sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-the-best-guides-to-get-more-leads-traffic-and-sales/) - [What Types Of Blogs Are Most Popular?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-types-of-blogs-are-most-popular/) - [The Art Of Persuasion: Tips And Tricks On Writing Effective Headlines](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-art-of-persuasion-tips-and-tricks-on-writing-effective-headlines/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## What Is Content Gap Analysis And How To Do It? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-content-gap-analysis-and-how-to-do-it/ Published: 2022-11-21 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Content gap analysis is an important phase in any content marketing strategy since it helps you identify the gap between what you have and what you need.  The main purpose of Content Gap Analysis is to identify the missing pieces of the puzzle and fill in those gaps. It might help you make smarter decisions regarding your content marketing strategy by revealing whether or not you have enough material to meet your client’s needs.  Simply put, it can make you prioritize which topics should be covered first to create enough value for your audience as quickly as possible. Digital marketing has grown substantially over the years, and with it, marketers’ capacity to be innovative in their field.  Today, there are a lot of different ways to produce content, including feature posts, working with micro-influencers, or doing sponsored posts.  Each tactic has companies finding success in their way if done right. However, a content gap analysis is a common aspect among these methods. A content gap is one of the most common marketing issues a business can experience. Yet, it’s very easy to prevent it.  In this article, I’ll share tips on doing a content gap analysis and reveal methods for recovering your potential customers’ contact details and making them happier in no time! ## What is Content Gap Analysis? This process helps you identify what content you should create to fill any gaps. This analysis aims to assist you in determining what areas need more focus or if something needs to be removed. It’s a great way to find new topics for blog posts, ebooks, or other types of content. In a nutshell, it has two main goals: identifying topics that are missing from your content library and finding opportunities for new types of content. ## Why is it Beneficial to Perform a Content Gap Analysis? ![ Content Gap Analysis](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/mNycCEsfYrg_GiaJ_UWjCI0ftiSp28FB5iPiSym_-3NGHjvvXPNmc9gC6gGEk_v3YLBxukNGwtZHXtORTrgYr_Q8e7P1C8COurVpT9SvLmZRZFZ-YfvzWFXsWqBHyXuGjffdkqC_StZBshBKKwxEoEx5rQyQEDQjxA0HQms2e9R0V1v03s45TEA) Content gap analysis is a way to be proactive instead of reactive. You can use it as part of an effective SEO strategy or improve specific areas of your business or marketing strategy. When you conduct this method, you may see what kind of content your customers are looking for and how much time they spend researching different topics.  Armed with this information, you can create new pieces of content that will help people find what they need when they search for it on Google or other search engines. ### Verify the Quality of Your Content As a marketer, you probably already know where you are lacking. But it’s important to thoroughly analyze all your content assets before deciding what needs improvement. Ensuring your user-friendly SEO foundation can improve your website’s search engine rankings. Get rid of duplicate content published under different URL slugs. It can make your website accessible and easy to navigate. You may have all the relevant pages in Google to rank for relevant keywords. To avoid this problem, create a sitemap and submit it to Google. It may help if you also use [redirects](https://developers.google.com/search/docs/crawling-indexing/301-redirects) so that when someone clicks on one version of an article’s URL, it redirects them to another version. ### Learn more about Google’s First Page The first page of Google search is critical to your SEO strategy. It has been stated that as much as 92% of all clicks on Google go to the first page. However, the actual number is closer to 71%, per [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2017/10/30/the-value-of-search-results-rankings/?sh=653a56544d3a). You may optimize your website for search engines by using descriptive keywords in your meta tags and headings. Another way is to take advantage of social media sites like Facebook and Twitter by sharing content with friends and followers. If you want to get thousands of viewers and leads, have the time to check the best tips to increase your traffic. ### Take Advantage of Scalability Tools If you don’t have the time or budget for an in-depth content gap analysis, it’s possible to do a quick analysis using keyword tools. You can also use these tools to identify new topics around which you could create content and improve your site experience. #### SEMRush [Semrush](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is a tool that helps marketers find out what people are searching for in their industry. This software has been around for quite some time and never fails to impress its users. It can also help you optimize your website for a higher ranking on search engines like Google. The tool has several features that make it stand out from others. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qK_w7mGV_UsLRJaBF50_ogW7ix8xkNcfcReZNZryFoWk_QD01yHT93OeRU-eEO0_VvzsKVFfLJvBcJK8V7CKLB-FHiBSIXR1LMqtmJcaApX-yBFq_GcR4t1qhBhAP2ktksOA1y_fQ2_8bHgXYDA1uK3lCtiXi_tL8Nr2-ME_hjfreBr6r_vRkII) [Image Source](https://www.semrush.com/) #### Ahrefs [Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com/) is a comprehensive suite of tools that provides a detailed analysis of your website’s performance. You may find the results based on search engines, social media, and backlinks. If you also want to know your competitor’s backlinks, keywords, and traffic sources, Ahrefs may provide what you need. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/XvgG03YbCohEsvRwnds5zrzQ--Pba0eE9IirAdE1a1JHgcvG9hOVc5TuVyhXnBaEZUKW1chHCM_1oRsPp6WjgITTzxJyKbiLga5gzPUvgl2-B9oymn9sVVoPgEhxD5bcxay74MmRC10ZyR3av408ByAk60fqjDF3WX0Z-XAIVOjb4PEsPZvCC20) [Image Source](https://ahrefs.com/) These [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) can give you a list of high-volume search terms related to calendars. To choose the right keywords to analyze, you must ensure they’re relevant to your business.  You also have to ensure that there are enough of them and that you can rank well in search engines.  Below are the following benefits of doing a content gap analysis: - Find new opportunities for content - Improve your organic search performance - Test your assumptions about what to write about - Create a content strategy that is sustainable long term - Devise a marketing strategy that is flexible to changing needs and goals ## What are the Steps in Conducting Content Gap Analysis? ### Create a Buyer’s Journey Map ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/p8BJKhFcc-lNuRJPulRit6TWZtB8TD0YWAsUoKjDWpKQsS2NuUpgNsG-U0_sBYEC1n8PJfYBZsr5ewXfIT59tnzhNkgjVkWoBiJ-l_n7IqloNhDm8lpK8uOooA1kFDNLtybKOWI643nHCJ0L3w8l4zYR1epNKf3lyeg7A6jijyC6aPmpn8WkNJc) [Image Source](https://www.b2binternational.com/publications/buyer-journey-research/) A buyer’s journey is the path they travel from awareness to purchase. It helps you understand how customers think, feel and behave as they move through the buying cycle. The process of converting prospects into buyers is called “conversion.” As they gain knowledge and get closer to making a final decision, customers go through many stages in the buying cycle, per [Recur](https://www.profitwell.com/recur/all/buying-cycle-stages). #### Achieve Conversion You can convert your customers by engaging them with content on your website or emails that educate and inform them about your products or services. Also, you may build trust as an industry expert, creating a desire for what you’re offering and ultimately closing sales. As you begin to conduct your research, keep the following questions in mind: 1. Who are the buyers? 2. What are they doing? 3. Why is this important to them? 4. What can you do to make sure they get what they want? #### Segment Customers Segment your customer base into different groups based on their behaviors, demographics, and interests. You can also use the pain points they experience as a segmentation method. Look for places where there may be gaps or opportunities for improvement. Then look at how each of your segments moves through those points in the process. #### Know Your Audience Before creating any content, understanding your audience is crucial. You need to know who they are, what they do, what they need, and what their pain points are. Knowing these things can help you create an accurate Buyer’s Journey Map that can be used in content gap analysis and how well your business solves its problems.  ### Facilitate Market Research ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HoJbPWKup5nB1SCkJ6x25vYFfwW62nOH7hpE9gq8kAJZsLVM4XsKECiZvd8913ThnO6wTrJWWrQ0stWI_-7BW9vI0T5aKpxy--MRIfCxOC7SNcP1r7jdPw56zOWP1SFmfm42aBUwa-HM-AJ1-WkGZPN4Wm2njV5N6EKSeHL8yQTEixCqSMIOeN4) [Image Source](https://www.questionpro.com/blog/what-is-market-research/) Market research is the process of collecting and analyzing information about the target audience. It can help you understand your customers’ needs, identify growth opportunities, and gain a competitive advantage over other businesses. This may require some digging into their behaviors and interests so that you can create valuable content that they will want to read. You can do this research in a variety of ways: #### Use social media Social media sites like [Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/), [Twitter](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-twitter-make-money/), and [Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/). It may allow you to connect with your audience directly through posts and comments related to specific topics or products. You can use these sites to post questions about specific topics or ideas – asking people what they want more information about. #### Conduct surveys and questionnaires These tools are excellent for gathering customer input on their opinions of various subjects or products. Surveys work best if you want general feedback from a large group, while questionnaires are better suited for gathering specific opinions from a smaller group. ### Decide on Your Primary Content Goals Like most content marketers, you’re probably already overwhelmed by the amount of content you need to produce. While you intend to gain more customers, you have to manage the amount of your content to let the consumers [get rid of information overload](https://rockcontent.com/blog/information-overload/#:~:text=Information%20overload%2C%20then%2C%20is%20an,levels%20of%20stress%20and%20anxiety.). Here are some questions to get you started to base your primary goals: - What do they need to know? - What information is missing altogether? - What would you like the public to know about your business? - What do customers ask for when they call customer support? - What queries do they have that your website doesn’t address? - What information has been buried under layers of marketing fluff? - What do people need to make decisions about working with your company? - How can they use this information as part of their decision-making process? Here are a few examples of typical goals to aid you in selecting the best ones for your company: - [Build Brand Equity](https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/) - [Improve SEO rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [Grow email subscribers](https://alejandrorioja.com/newsletter/) - [Increase traffic to your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) ### Investigate Your Competitors’ Content If you want to find efficient strategies to raise conversions and income, you must be aware of what your rivals are doing. Here are some ways to find out: 1. Check their blogs for any recently published articles related to your topic area. 2. See what they’re posting, especially if they have a branded hashtag or Facebook page. 3. Track their comments on specific topics with Google Alerts or Twitter’s advanced search. For example, if you’re selling products on the topic of healthy eating, you might want to know if there are any gaps in the market. You may do this to fill the gap by creating a new piece of content or adding more information to an existing one. To do this, you could start by looking at your competitors’ websites and blogs. SEMrush and Ahrefs can tell you what keywords and backlinks they rank for. This strategy can indicate what type of content they’re working on and where their strengths lie. Once you know where the gaps are, it’s time to create something better than them. ### See the Gaps and Fill them in ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/5oWFhaD96HnabRSd2HoWfFsA9nmKilizctnIf7Godm4lh_c_OOdzSokKZMUS8ib2kbwX5ijMXnsxyoLgVrJ2ftL6sGm46vqNQ7QhMp_cMfPOxO9rVGh-C5RjZXDfTilosby5br5IxZQqQKFzd8jglLDpi0msCLKCIhs2wWS1fwomsV1mrwP_xl0) Now that you know what content gap analysis is, let’s look at how you can use it to build a better strategy and fill in the gaps in your content marketing plan. This may sound like much work, but it can be as simple as finding a relevant article or blog post from another site and adapting it to your audience. Identify which parts of your current strategy are missing or need improvement. For example, if you’re not targeting new audiences with different content types, that problem must be fixed. Once you’ve analyzed the gaps in your current strategy, map out a roadmap so that you can effectively fill those gaps over time. For instance, what would you do if you wanted to enhance lead generation by improving customer retention rates through educational videos regarding product safety? You can develop an outline for each video and a timeframe for making them all.  Also, include each team member who can give their share towards completing this project. Of course, you must try various tried-and-true strategies to [assist you in driving 10x more traffic to your website in 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/) if you’re seeking ways to improve website traffic. ## Bottom line There are no shortcuts to good content marketing. If you want to know what kind of content is missing from your website, you need to do some work. Content gap analysis is looking at your website’s content and figuring out what you don’t have. It’s a great way to find new topics for blog posts or other types of content people are interested in. This article provides insights into how content gap analysis works, why it’s important, and how to do it yourself. Like this post? Learn more from other articles I’ve written about tips and tricks in using SEO and how to increase your website traffic.  - [The Best SEO Guide For 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [How to Get 250,000+ Visits (My Best Growth Hacks)](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) - [How To Write A Blog Post For SEO: Best 10 Tips You Should Know](https://flux.la/how-to-write-a-blog-post-for-seo/) Don’t forget to leave your comments in the section below. Please let me know which company I should write about next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Jasper.ai Is Changing The Way We Interact With Technology Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-jasper-ai-is-changing-the-way-we-interact-with-technology/ Published: 2022-11-18 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line AI technology has advanced significantly in recent years. One of the most recent developments in this area is Jasper AI,  a software that can assist you in creating content. Jasper frees innovation and makes generative AI available to companies and content professionals. With the help of Jasper, anyone who owns a laptop may overcome writer’s block, repurpose their content, produce fresh content copies, and translate their work into other languages and styles. The fundamental AI model can produce lengthy blog posts and eBooks depending on a prompt rather than just auto-completed sentences and brief headings. The [Jasper AI](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) software has revolutionized how content is created online today.  Several advertisers stand by the Jasper AI app’s performance and durability. However, others are still more than a little bit cautious and unwilling to hand over control of their content production to an AI-powered machine.  Another important thing you should know is that Jasper.ai was formerly called “Conversion ai” and “Jarvis ai.” It is important to know this since most people get confused.   Allow me to explain in this article how the said software is changing the way we connect with technology and whether it is worth trying this program. Keep reading! ## Technology Used In Jasper AI  The system that enables [Jasper AI](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) to work comes from the linguistics model GPT-3, sometimes referred to as the 3rd generation of Generative Pre-Trained Generator. In a nutshell, GPT-3 is a neural network algorithm for machine learning built using internet-sourced data. Elon Musk is among the co-founders of the business OpenAI, which created the GPT-3 algorithm. GPT-3 needs data to be supplied to produce enormous amounts of complicated and meaningful machine-generated information. Deep learning neural systems are an effective type of artificial intelligence, and the GPT-3 contains one. About 175 billion different machine-learning variables make up this specific model. And last, anyone can make significant content faster. A VA (Virtual Assistant) could take care of the work while you concentrate on other things. ## Jasper.ai’s Impact On How We Connect With Technology Since AI is the core basis of machine learning, it is crucial. In a small amount of time it would take people, machines using artificial intelligence (AI) can process enormous volumes of data and utilize their acquired intelligence to make the most informed choices and findings. Programs like Jasper, an AI writing assistance, are important in how we interact with technology because Jasper’s existing capabilities can fundamentally alter the process of creating material and copywriting so that, once it is implemented, there is no turning back.  They have altered public perceptions of a technology that was previously supposed to be restricted to automating simple, routine tasks in favor of one that can now match or even outperform human inventiveness. By enabling the creation of original written and digital visual marketing, Jasper’s generative AI system is revolutionizing how people and companies compete and how users interact with technology.   Anyone may profit from effective copywriting to support their marketing thanks to reasonable prices, simplicity of usage, and accessibility. ## Features of Jasper.ai Most users will rely on [Jasper AI](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) to assist them in producing their long-form content. While others will use this tool to create amazing [social media posts](https://sproutsocial.com/insights/social-media-ideas/), write search engine-optimized [blogs](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-types-of-blogs-are-most-popular/), and many more.  Here are some of its other features that I find the most useful. ### 1\. Implementation of Surfer SEO Enterprises wishing to create blog posts or other web material they hope will appear on Google find [Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseonew/) useful. It is described as one of the most potent on-page SEO methods. By analyzing the sites that appear on Google’s first page and then employing connections and computational linguistics, they generate their suggestions for material.  Using Surfer SEO’s direct integration with the Jasper AI Documents feature (long-form assistant), you can quickly and, with the help of artificial intelligence, create blog posts or other SEO-optimized web material. Remember that using Surfer SEO is a premium, extra add-on that is not a part of your Jasper AI subscription. If you are passionate about writing SEO-optimized content and are willing to spend an extra $59 monthly for the Surfer SEO bundle, you may link the two. ### 2\. Pre-Built Templates  With the pre-built templates and use cases that come with Jasper AI, you could begin working on your next project immediately. Some applications for Jasper AI include the following: - Blog Posts or Article Maker - Sales Copy Developer - Landing Pages or Home Pages Generator - Social Media Content - Campaign Emails. Additionally, Jasper provides AI-based tools for creating sentences, text summaries, imaginative tales, marketing materials, blog subject suggestions, [blog layouts](https://www.impactplus.com/blog/blog-layout-best-practices), blog introductions, blog conclusions, individual bios, Facebook & Google Ad headlines, company profiles for [LinkedIn](https://alejandrorioja.com/beginners-guide-to-linkedin-marketing/), and much more. With Jasper AI, the possibilities are virtually endless, largely because of the variety of free templates for accelerating workflow without compromising the caliber of your AI-generated material. ### 3\. Short and Long-Form Content You can easily create a good amount of long-form content (long-form material that is structured and convincing) with Boss Mode from Jasper AI. With this variant of the Jasper AI platform, you can create content up to 3000 letters long (600 characters with the regular plan).  Rather, you will be able to delegate that task to Jasper AI, who will produce blog entry after blog entry (as frequently as you’d want, in a matter of seconds) without you being concerned about the site’s content’s value deteriorates. Individuals can also use this application to create short-form material. Using the Jasper AI framework, you may create blog content, video screenplays, convincing bullet points, and sometimes even creative writing. ### 4\. Plagiarism Scanner For me, checking for plagiarism is an important step when creating content. You must always make sure it is original. Luckily, included in the Jasper AI tool is built-in assistance for grammar and plagiarism. Your subscription includes premium connectivity, top grammar-checking services like Grammarly, and connections with CopyScape. These two are significant contributions to the Jasper AI toolkit. Many individuals are wary of utilizing AI writing tools like Jasper, not only due to the alleged learning curve but also out of concern that their online material would be plagiarized, damaging their reputation and [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/). You won’t ever have to bother about it because of the availability of grammatical and plagiarism checkers. ### 5\. Rewriting Feature Jasper does more than produce text. Additionally, it features a function called the Rewrite Feature that lets you change how the output text is written.  So, Jasper is a useful tool for creatives, marketers, and other content creators who need to produce content rapidly. If you want to edit an established article, you can use this function. The ‘Explain It To A 5th Grader’ is one option of Jasper AI. It takes a difficult phrase or sentence marked, and it explains the language to the ability of a 5th grader, which is another incredible feature.  Shorter sentences and simpler vocabulary are typically the results of this. ## Should You Try Jasper.Ai? With all of Jasper’s capabilities, creating better content is now simpler than ever. However, [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) has many benefits and drawbacks, just like every tool. ### Pros Jasper will ensure that your writing is understood by a broad audience and not lost. You can create content for nearly any language when AI is on your side. Additionally, the AI platform includes a tool called Surfer SEO built-in to assist you in creating captivating content on any subject, target audience, or industry. Jasper AI can therefore support any specialty you choose to write about. Additionally, the Jasper AI algorithm is built to produce original, high-quality content that is incredibly simple to comprehend and understand, increasing the likelihood that you will attract new users or clients as a result of using this content marketing platform. Other advantages are the following: - Modern artificial intelligence algorithms are used - Easy Content Creation Process - Vocabulary Development - Accessible ### Cons Although the platform’s designers made it very user-friendly, it can be a little confusing for those not accustomed to creating a copy with AI technology at their disposal. But, there is also a sizable collection of instructional resources available to help you receive the guidance and information you require when using Jasper for your business requirements if you need help getting familiar with the interface and understanding how to use the software. Here are other disadvantages I found: - A minor learning curve when determining effective practices - Can be Pricey - Only available on desktop. Before deciding whether you want to avail of its services, you should research and be familiar with it to help with decision-making.  ## To Wrap Up! Jasper is a really helpful tool and is worth the investment. People who want to expand their content creation activities and produce more material in less time will find it highly suitable. This AI platform will assist you in producing interesting, high-quality content without hiring a costly staff of in-house writers or overtaxing your current content promotional efforts. It also greatly impacts technology development and how we connect with it.  However, it should never be used as a substitute for human authors. If you believe Jasper.ai will simplify your content development process, signup for the [free trial to get started.](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) Did you find this article helpful? Here are some other articles you might find interesting! - [How To Make The Best Guides To Get More Leads, Traffic, And Sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-the-best-guides-to-get-more-leads-traffic-and-sales/) - [What Types Of Blogs Are Most Popular?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-types-of-blogs-are-most-popular/) - [The Art Of Persuasion: Tips And Tricks On Writing Effective Headlines](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-art-of-persuasion-tips-and-tricks-on-writing-effective-headlines/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Review Of Jasper.AI: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-jasper-ai/ Published: 2022-11-14 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Reviews ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Intelligent technology has advanced significantly in the past decade. Among the most recent developments in this area is Jasper AI. It is a tool that uses artificial intelligence to assist you in creating content. You may rely upon Jasper.ai as a companion in creating the ideal content copy. The type of content ranges from websites, articles, advertising and promotional, content and almost every sort of content need that you can think of under the sun. This review will help you understand how Jasper.AI may be useful for you and how you can make the most of it to simplify your content development process and save costs. [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) is a cutting-edge artificial intelligence company that offers a suite of tools to help businesses automate their operations and improve their decision-making processes. Jasper.ai’s platform is based on a number of proprietary algorithms that allow it to constantly learn and improve its content prediction and management and this is what makes this platform most exciting for users. In this detailed review, I will discuss with you all you need to know about how Jasper.AI is a helpful tool for all your writing needs. The features, pricing, and more will be discussed. As a marketer and SEO expert, I find this tool very helpful in putting what I want to portray to my readers and followers. Let’s get into what this tool is all about in a deeper view. ## What is Jasper.AI? [Jasper.AI](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) is your effective assistant in creating content for your marketing write-ups. It can make the time you put into your marketing strategy more efficient and of quality as it lessens the pressure. This tool can be paired with other SEO and marketing writing technologies. I have experienced using this with other grammar, text, and word generating and corrector apps, and it has been delivered so far. ## Where is it Best to use Jasper.AI? In optimizing your business website or online platforms and establishing their presence on the [Search results page](https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/google-updates-search-display-formats-to-provide-more-context-to-users/634207/), Jasper.AI can help you produce quality content. Here are some areas where you can use Jasper. A.I. and be able to experience what it can offer you fully: ![Review Of Jasper.ai: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing](/images/posts/inline/6e60fa00-jasper.ai-review.png) ### Blogs In your blogs, you can get assistance from [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/). Many people have gotten results of a high-quality and well-structured article with a few SEO notes faster and easier. If you need other elements in your blog structure, you may input them separately and have Jasper.AI compose or generate a guide for you, such as: 1. Headlines 2. Topic Ideas 3. Long-Form Assistant 4. Sentence Expander 5. Conclusion Paragraph ### Long-Form Content When you need catchy and high-quality converting content on your landing page or business website, you can count on Jasper.AI to create this content for you. This tool can easily optimize your long-form content to rank higher and acquire enough traffic to be easily visible to your target market. ### Content Improver All your existing content for your clients and yourself can be revised and edited with Jasper. A.I. If you need your write-ups to be creative, engaging, and tweaked, you can immediately access this tool. ### Copywriting Templates Copywriting may be one of your best suits and interest as a marketer and [SEO expert](https://financesonline.com/seo-statistics/). If you struggle with this feat as a beginner in marketing, fear not, as this tool can help capture your audience’s attention. With the pre-made templates available with [Jasper.ai,](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) you can easily address the structure you want to portray and identify specific keywords your target market can relate to, such as: 1. Features and Benefits 2. Before, After, Bridge 3. PAS (Problem-Agitate-Solution) 4. AIDA (Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action) ### Social Media Tools If you are in charge of a social media agency and need to be on point all the time to build your brand through social media. With Jasper.AI, you get to freely generate captions and descriptions for your marketing needs easily and increase views, followers and likes for most of your visitors through: 1. Google Ads Headline 2. LinkedIn Company Bio 3. Google Ads Descriptions 4. Instagram Photo Captions 5. Quirky Ideas for Campaigns ### Product Descriptions In your websites, emails, and social media channels, you can use this tool from time to time as your guide and edit away to create quick and entertaining product descriptions. This way, you can offer more and sell other offers, products, and services you have developed for my audience and community online. ### YouTube Tools As a Youtuber, you can effectively create content descriptions for your [videos and channels](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) through Jasper.AI’s various capable templates generated through Artificial Intelligence. Generally, [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) can help in making auto-generated templates for your standard YouTube tools: 1. Covers Making Video Titles 2. Generate Video Descriptions 3. Helps with thinking of Video Ideas for content ### Email Marketing Templates If you need subject lines for your email marketing campaigns, this tool has your back. It helps you create the perfect, eye-catching headers to capture your target audience from the subject line. ### Writing For Different Languages Jasper.AI can help you if you need language support and content translations. The ready-made templates in this tool can translate 25 languages and more and not just stick to English. ## Who Can Use Jasper.AI? ![Review Of Jasper.ai: Pros & Cons, Features And Pricing](/images/posts/inline/0ff07280-jasper.ai-review-with-features.png) Anyone of you experiencing writer’s block needs [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/). Apart from that, SEO experts and marketers can better appreciate what Jasper.ai offers and how it solves the problems writers face. Here are some of those who can benefit from the talent and capabilities of this generating tool: 1. Marketers 2. Social Media Experts 3. Business Professionals 4. Sales Associates ## Quick Overview of Jasper.AI’s Stand-Out Features Like any artificial intelligence-powered writing tool, some features are part of Jasper.AI’s software, making it stand out from the rest. Here are what makes this tool unique from the rest: ### Commands for Re-phrasing and 5th Grader Explanation This feature is available for you whenever needed, which makes your content reorganized and revised for a much simpler and more direct rendition of what you want it to say. ### Unlimited Access to Project Folders and Workspace Documents In a certain plan of [Jasper.ai,](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) you can have access to unlimited projects and folders in your workspace. Therefore, you can have a more organized tracking of all your accounts and clients that you handle. ### Optimizing Tools for Better Content With the SEO mode and other templates it follows for better copy, your content with Jasper.AI can be as natural as possible. Also, all keywords in this will be [optimized for better rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) of your site or business in the SERP. ### Auto-Compose Button It has an available button that enables you to compose AI-generated texts, whether long-form or not. This can make you generate content faster and easier though some specific keywords are needed. ### Plagiarism Checker Even though Jasper.AI can write original content for you, you can still run it through a plagiarism checker that can be directly used with the system. ### Command Features This is where the magic happens for Jasper. A.I. You can write a command for Jasper.AI, and it can automatically craft a structured and well-versed write-up for you. ### Jasper.AI Built-In Editor Jasper.AI includes a built-in editor with your write-ups and lets you generate a standard copy free of grammar mistakes and other issues. ### Customizable Tone For Write-up Voice The tone of voice and mimicking of Jasper.AI is also installed to understand better the content you want it to generate. It has built-in GPT-3 data that can recognize adjectives and personalities in your write-ups. ### Paragraph Generator Another stand-out feature of this tool is the paragraph generator which uses the A.I. technology to generate sections of your content that are engaging and accurate. ### A.I. Community and Group for Writers You can easily collaborate with fellow writers with the chat support possibility from moderators and administrators of the [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) network. This is one way you can be productive with the tool. ## Pricing Plans For Jasper.AI There are three active types of pricing plans you can choose from with [Jasper.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/). Along with the pricing plans, there are also features in line with it that are crafted and aligned to your specific business needs. Here is a brief explanation you can check out so you can fully understand what is fitting for your needs: ![Jasper.ai pricing](/images/posts/inline/08e9ef0e-jasper.ai-pricing.png) ### The Starter In needing short copies, you can avail of [Jasper.ai’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) starter for just 29 U.S. dollars monthly. This includes a feature of 20,000 words. Generally, this can be good for headings and product descriptions. Apart from these basic offerings, You have an available 6000-character look back to check and review. It can accommodate unlimited projects and has 5 user login access capability. ### The Boss Mode To create long-form blogs and content, novels, and posts, you may need this tool’s boss mode, payable to 59 U.S. Dollars per month. Many have stated that this is their preferred option. It can help by giving you 50,000 words and offering you 30,000 more if you add 40 U.S. Dollars to this plan. Also, it gives you 3,000 character lookbacks and can even write cooking recipes for you. Here are the features included here: 1. Plagiarism Checker 2. Revision History 3. SEO Mode 4. Grammarly Basics 5. Jarvis Commands 6. Faster Response Rate or Time 7. More concise and structured context ### Business This is an ideal choice for those working in teams or if you have [your agency](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-start-a-marketing-consulting-agency/). This has customizable word counts, which means unlimited counts can be done. Also, this is a flexible subscription type. You will automatically have a dedicated support and account manager who will assist you with onboarding and training sessions. Generally, you control Jasper.AI in creating the content you wish with no limits. These are some of what you can get when you choose the business plan of Jasper.AI: 1. Custom user package 2. SEO Mode 3. Premium Technical support 4. Billing Flexibility 5. Grammarly Basic ## Pros and Cons Of Jasper.AI Below are a few comparisons of the advantages and disadvantages of Jasper.AI as a marketing content and write-up generating tool. Knowing how this can benefit your business is a great strategy to understand better if it fits your process.  ## Pros 1. There is an available template for every marketing write-up or need (50+) 2. It can support 25 languages and more 3. Higher efficiency rate in producing original content 4. They offer an academy for helpful training you can reach online 5. Chat support is excellent 6. The user interface is easy and has tutorials set-up already ### Cons 1. There is only a 10% familiarity rate for the [GPT-3 Technology](https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/24/science/artificial-intelligence-ai-gpt3.html) about the Internet 2. The Long-form generator can sometimes repeat texts and information 3. You have to fact-check the whole output created - You have options for budget and costing plans (subscription plans) - A certified copywriting tool ## Is writing with tools like Jasper.AI good? Writing with A.I.-assisted tools like Jasper.AI is a good idea. Generally, this tool only helps you get a good kickstart on what you need to write. Your knowledge and natural abilities will still have to be on the frontline of what content you are making to have a more impressive write-up for your clients or business. ## To Sum Up! Certainly, you will appreciate what this tool can offer fellow marketers and SEO writers like yourself. You can start efficiently with this tool and end naturally with your ideas. Jasper.ai eliminates the writer’s block you may be experiencing and lessens the cognitive stress you must go through whenever you need to produce better content. If you believe Jasper.ai will simplify your content development process, signup for the [free trial to get started.](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/jasper/) If you were enlightened by what I have shared in this post, check out some of my other topics: - [How To Diagnose Traffic Drops Using Google Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-diagnose-traffic-drops-using-google-analytics/) - [How To Make The Best Guides To Get More Leads, Traffic, And Sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-the-best-guides-to-get-more-leads-traffic-and-sales/) - [The Evolution and History of Blogging](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/) Comment below if you use an A.I. generated tool for your marketing write-ups or whatever experience you can share! --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Deleted Facebook Messages: How To Restore Them Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/deleted-facebook-messages-how-to-restore-them/ Published: 2022-10-17 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: The most popular and widely used social media platform currently on the internet is Facebook. You eagerly check our Facebook notifications and messages every single day. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The most popular and widely used social media platform currently on the internet is Facebook. You eagerly check our Facebook notifications and messages every single day. But what if you misplace your crucial Facebook messages and are unsure of how to get them back? This guide will show you how to recover deleted or lost Facebook messages. Losing an important Text exchange could be irritating. Those messages might hold great value for you. You didn’t ever want those memories to fade away. However, keep calm. Since so many people are looking for ways to recover [deleted Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) messages, and that is why I offer the best practical solutions so you can quickly get those chats back. This tutorial focuses on the quick and easy phases for recovering deleted messages on Messenger. Here are some of the methods that could help you on your way! ## Deleted Facebook Messages Recovered Via Computer Method Before moving on, keep in mind that Facebook retains all your deleted information for 90 days. The odds of recovering deleted messages are very small if you attempt to do so after this period. You can always go to their Messaging service Help Center for more assistance. ### How Can Deleted Facebook Messages Be Managed To Recover On A Desktop? Facebook is conscious of the fact that anyone can mistakenly delete messages or files. They, therefore, propose a simple procedure for you to recover removed messages from their configurations. to try and claim your conversation: 1. After logging in, go to “Preferences and or Privacy.” 2. Then, pick the Save your information options under the Your Fb Information section in the left panel of the Main Settings Menu. 3. You will then be redirected to the subsequent page, on which you can obtain all information. It comprises every activity you’ve conducted on your Identity ever since you entered Fb. 4. To save storage capacity, you should first click on Uncheck All. As a result, your information will be saved. 5. [Verify](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) and now select the option next to the data you wish to download, in this instance, the messages. As a result, you can follow the link and choose it by checking the option next to Message. After you’re done, choose “New File” from the menu. 6. A quick pop-up message alerts you when you press the Download File button as the documents are processed and that you’ll be informed on Facebook when they are ready. A download link will be sent to your associated email address. Upon tapping the hyperlink in the email users obtained from the social network, you can reach Fb’s Download Your Info Page. You’ll be required to enter your passcode in order to secure your security. You can access Facebook’s Download Your Data Page by clicking the link in the email you received from the social network. To ensure your security, you will be prompted to enter your password. 7. Tap “Download” for you to complete the process. You can view your removed Facebook messages by selecting “Messages” in the “Index” file, which is located in the folder you unzipped earlier and contains all your Facebook data.  ## With File Explorer, Recovering Facebook Messenger Messages Is Possible Facebook Messenger adheres to the “Off the Internet” tenet, so your data is stored on your device in another location. As a result, trying to find your removed conversations in your File Management App is a quick way to recover deleted messages on Messenger. 1. Open your device’s File Explorer and navigate to the Memory Card folder. 2. Locate and open the Android folder containing all the applications dealing with data. 3. Locate the data folder, the cache folder, and FB temp. Each app’s backup files are kept there. Therefore, there’s a chance that Facebook Messenger will save your messages in the folder, making this your best opportunity to recover removed Messenger messages. ## Full Data Recovery Removed Messages On Facebook On An Android Device Using A PC The technique mentioned above didn’t work to recover deleted Facebook messages. You can probably attempt another approach by using the PC to access the memory on your smartphone. 1. Locate your device and USB-connect your phone to your computer. 2. Locate the “com.facebook.orca” named folder by going to “SD Card or Internal Storage” > “Android” > “Data”. 3. Pinpoint your Messages with backup systems in the “com.facebook.orca” folder by finding “cache” and “FB temp.” Start restoring Facebook Messenger messages that were deleted from your computer! This approach seems a little too technical in the list of ways to view deleted messages on Messenger. ## Using A Third-party app, Recover Permanently Deleted Texts From Facebook Messenger A 3rd software that offers the simplest yet quickest way to recover removed Messenger messages in a few taps and swipes can be used if the above-mentioned methods were not very helpful. ### How to Use the Stellar Data Retrieval App To Restoring Removed Messages On Facebook From Your Android Device? Stellar Recovery For Mobile is a fantastic tool that recovers deleted data from your phone, including photographs, texts and emails, and contacts. It helps restore conversation and media from Facebook and WhatsApp on more than 6000 Android tablets and devices. These are a few of its attributes: Supports a variety of languages. Users of this application can select one of five different languages. Data is exported in a variety of formats. The recovered data can be exported in VCF, HTML, or Document formats. File recovery for malware-induced file deletions. Your texts and contacts that may have been deleted due to malware or virus infection can now be recovered. #### Phase 1 Download and install Stellar Retrieval for Android. This program is specifically made to help Android users restore lost or removed messages, contacts, photos, videos, and other types of multimedia data. #### Phase 2 Put the program on your  Desktop Computer and connect your Android smartphone to the computer. #### Phase 3 Run the software now and let the data retrieval tool search through all of your deleted or lost messages. After the scan, it provides a “one-click preview” of the messages, pictures, videos, and documents so you can look through the information you want to recover. #### Phase 4 Export documents to save the files after you have finished finding them! You could restore deleted Messenger messages, and each document would be saved in PDF format. ### For IOS Users iCloud file recovery assistance. This data recovery software carries out the recovery process quickly and easily. It also ensures that every piece of information stashed in your iCloud data backup is managed to recover. ### Get Your Safari Bookmarks Back The iPhone’s Safari browser’s bookmarks can be retrieved with the help of this application. ### Aids In Recovering Deleted Notes You can now recover deleted iPhone notes with large file sizes and attachments. ### Recover Call History And Voice Memos  The call history of your iPhone, which has been lost or deleted, can also be recovered using Stellar Retrieval for iPhone. ### Complete Recovery Users can recover lost and deleted data from iPhone, iPad, apple music, and iCloud using a total iOS data recovery application. ### The steps to using this application are as follows: - Click the button below to download Stellar Retrieval for iPhone. - Install the application and open it in phase two. - Choose the type of data you want to recover and press the Next button. - Select Scan to start the procedure. - Examine the results and select the folder in which to save the retrieved data. ## Make a Current Messages Backup To prevent this from happening again, back up your messages. You can do this, for instance, by enabling your automatic updates. To do this, adhere to the phases below: - Phase 1: On your desktop, open Facebook and click the dropdown in the top right corner of the screen. - Choose Configurations & privacy, then choose Setup a second time. - Please scroll to the bottom of the left menu until you see Notifications, then click it. - Tap Email after you’ve browsed to the bottom of the page. - Choose Every notification, excluding either of those that you have turned off. This ensures that you’ll begin receiving the messages in your mailbox. Additionally, you can make a copy of your messages. Facebook’s backup version only keeps your messages up until a specific time, except WhatsApp backup, which enables you to recover any removed message. ## Reviving Via Archived Convo  Launch the Messenger app on your iPad, iPhone, or Android device. Your missing messages may have been archived rather than deleted. People frequently choose the Archive possibility instead of continuing to delete a conversation because doing so in the mobile platform of Messenger requires a few more Phases. You would have received a warning that the message had been permanently deleted and that it couldn’t be recovered if you had done so. Check the archive unless you do not even recollect seeing a message like that. 1. Enter the conversation you believe you deleted into the search bar. 2. Send a second message to the receiver after finding the desired chat to unarchive the entire exchange. This method is the simplest way to remove messages on Messenger. ### How to Recover Facebook Archived Messages on a Desktop: - Open Facebook Messenger on your computer. - Select the Messages tab. Click the “gear” icon. To visualize each of the archived messages, choose “Archived Threads.” Among several phases for seeing removed messages on Messenger, this one is the simplest and will catalog all the presumably deleted texts. ## Bottom line The benefit of using chat functions on media platforms is that it makes straightforward conversation possible. Following the steps above is the simplest approach to recovering something you unintentionally deleted after discussing a vital matter with a buddy on Fb. Implementing these outgoing instructions allows you to find and recover lost communications on Fb for Mobile easily. For speedy results, several of these suggestions urge the use of integrated tools and third-party resources. In the discussion section below, feel free to contribute to many more effective techniques you’ve used to recover deleted messages. Check more guides and resources here: - [How Does Facebook Make Money? 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [Get Verified on Facebook: Page or Profile (Blue + Gray Verification Badge) for FREE](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) - [How to Cancel All Pending Friend Requests on Facebook (2022 Script)](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-cancel-all-pending-friend-requests-on-facebook/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A few things have shifted since this post first went up. **Meta dropped the legacy "Page" verification track in 2024** and folded it into **Meta Verified** ($14.99–$19.99/mo depending on tier and country) — the blue check is now a subscription, not a one-time review. Friend-request flows still work as described, though Meta moved the bulk-cancel UI deeper into mobile settings; the desktop `m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing` route still works (2026-04 spot check). Worth knowing in 2026: ~3.07B Facebook MAU (Meta Q4 2025 earnings), but the share of *time-on-platform* relative to Reels and WhatsApp has continued sliding. If this post is part of an outreach strategy, weight WhatsApp and Threads (yes — Threads survived the 2024 pivot speculation and crossed 200M MAU) accordingly. --- ## Snapchat Streak Recovery – How to Restore Snapstreak in 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-restore-snapstreak/ Published: 2022-10-11 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing ## Table of contents #### Bottom line If it weren’t for the streaks, I probably would have deleted Snapchat long ago. I love how this Snapchat function allows me to feel connected to my family and coworkers, even when we’re physically apart. I used to create Snapchat streaks with just about everyone, but now I’ve reached a point in my life where I only care about a select number of my colleagues. Maintaining winning streaks has always been a goal. But there have been inevitable situations where I’ve lost Snapchat streaks. Snapchat streaks can be restored, so don’t worry. “Snapstreak” is one of the numerous entertaining [features offered by Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/). Using Snapstreak, you make a daily commitment to send a specific person at least one photo or video snap within 24 hours of its capture. The goal is to maintain the daily exchange so that you may rack up the biggest streak score possible. When a user’s streak expires, Snapchat will give them a warning notification. But there will be moments when you can’t keep up the good work. If this has occurred to you, continue reading to learn how to get back on your winning streak. ## How To Regain Your Snap Streak It would help if you kept in mind that you can’t do this frequently. Avoid this tactic as an automatic response once you lose your Streak. They aren’t fooled that easily. Depending on the company’s benevolence. Second, this approach will probably only work with a single contact if many Streaks have vanished. Snapchat can only accept one username per submission. Take special care of your longest active Streak. ### The Streak Recovery Guide For Snapchat There’s no assurance that a lost streak can be recovered on Snapchat. It depends on the circumstances, but you should do anything you can to avoid losing your Snapstreak in the first place. When a Snapstreak ends, what should you do? Here is a breakdown of what to do to help you recover your snap streaks. 1. Verify that you haven’t left anything out or made any blunders before proceeding. In these cases, Snapchat Help often does not reactivate Streaks. 2. If you have a buddy on Snap and they sent you streaks, but you still lost your Streak, don’t worry about it. When problems arise, you may use Snapchat’s contact form to contact the company when problems arise. 3. Click on “I lost my Snapstreak” and complete the form that appears. Provide as much detail as possible about your circumstance so Snapchat can get a clear picture.  4. You should expect a response from Snapchat in a week or so from the time you submit that form. They will put your Streak back to normal if everything is in order. However, they will likely not assist you if they discover that the reason your Streak ended was not due to a problem on Snapchat’s end. ## What Does A Snapchat Streak Not Count? You and your friend must send snaps to each other for 24 hours to keep the streaks alive on Snapchat. When we refer to “snaps,” we are referring to direct communication on Snapchat that includes an image or a video. The following do not contribute to your Snapstreak with a specific person in the following ways: ## Tips For Keeping Your Snap Streak Going A solid understanding of the system’s functions is essential if you want to keep your Snapstreak alive. That’s not the same as simply sending a Snap to a pal; there’s more to it. At the very least, you and your pal should Snap with each other once daily. However, snaps sent using Memories or Snapchat’s Spectacles do not contribute to a Snapstreak. It seems paradoxical, but you must keep this in mind if you want to maintain your Snap Streaks, especially when it involves transactions or [making money on Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/). Finally, while sending a Snap, you must be there to ensure it’s successfully delivered. While delivering a Snap, if you close the app or force it from the multitasking menu, the Snap may not be sent, and you will lose your streak. ## How Long Does It Take To Get A Snap Streak Back? After you submit a request for a Snapstreak reinstated, the Snapchat team will typically respond to your inquiry within the following twenty-four hours and let you know whether or not your streak will be reinstated.  If you cannot keep up with the Snapstreak because of a server outage or a technical problem, the streak may be easily recovered; however, you should make it a habit to send snaps and remember to request the recovery of the streak regularly. ## How Come Snapchat Isn’t Assisting Me In Regaining My Snap Streak? If your streak just faded over time, the social network will not revive it for you. It makes no difference if you were getting close to 1000 days; the fact that someone forgot is on both of your shoulders. You have the option to fib and state that the software experienced some kind of technical difficulty. However, we do not support such a position. The service might not see a need to make a change. You’ll have to start fresh Streaks if this happens. A new beginning might be beneficial in some situations. ## Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs) The most often-asked questions about resuming a Snap Streak are detailed here. ### Is there an ideal daily quota for sending photographs? To keep a streak alive, you must send at least one photo every 24 hours. If you keep this up for more than three days, the streak emoji will appear. ### Is it possible for someone to keep up a Snapchat streak? The purpose of a Snapstreak is to draw attention to the habit of regularly exchanging photos amongst close friends. Therefore, it is extremely unlikely that a single person could start or continue a streak. ### What is the record for the longest Snapstreak in history? According to several sources, the longest streak ever recorded on Snapchat was 2414 days, achieved in December of 2021. However, Snapchat has not publicly published any records of this nature in its history. ### Is it necessary to inform Snapchat that I was aware of the clock? It’s a standard inquiry, and our experience has shown us that it’s in everyone’s best interest to be forthright with the firm when answering questions like this one. If you see the hourglass but can’t send a Snap because you don’t have mobile coverage or the app is having technical difficulties, please inform Snapchat. ## Where this leaves us The Snapstreaking function does more than keep you active on the app; it also stimulates healthy competition. The platform provides assistance in the form of a numerical streak display and warnings when a snap has not been received within 24 hours.  Even if you and your friend are on a hot streak, Snapchat might terminate it for reasons beyond your control, such as a loss of connection. Fortunately, if you or someone else accidentally miss a snap and it wasn’t your fault, Snapchat will let you pick up right where you left off. Have you learned anything new by reading this article? I have included anything that came to mind that I thought may be helpful to you, and I have put it down in my notebook. I have included everything. - [Top Tips For Growing Snapchat Followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-on-growing-snapchat-followers/) - [Three Easy Ways To Unlock Your Snapchat Account](https://alejandrorioja.com/?s=snap#:~:text=Three%20Easy%20Ways%20To%20Unlock%20Your%20Snapchat%20Account) - [Why Does Your Spotify Keep Crashing? And How To Fix It?](https://alejandrorioja.com/?s=snap#:~:text=Why%20Does%20Your%20Spotify%20Keep%20Crashing%3F%20And%20How%20To%20Fix%20It%3F) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Fix No Data Available On Facebook Error Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-no-data-available-on-facebook-error/ Published: 2022-09-28 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: When it comes to marketing a company’s goods and services, Facebook is an excellent social media platform to use. Nonetheless, there are situations where issues arise, and one of them is no data available. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line When it comes to marketing a company’s goods and services, Facebook is an excellent social media platform to use. Nonetheless, there are situations where issues arise, and one of them is no data available. No Data Available On users of Facebook, this means that they will see an error message whenever they attempt to load a page that requires them to click on a button to indicate approval, disapproval, or any other action. If you’re having trouble accessing a certain Facebook page due to a failed data retrieval, try logging out and then back in again.  Then, you should upgrade your browser, delete your cache, and turn off any add-ons. It’s important to keep your mobile app up-to-date and delete any old cached data. Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook in 2004, making it one of the first major [social networking services](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/). Users may send text messages, voice calls, or see each other’s faces on video chats. However, some Facebook users have complained of a “no data available” error on the Facebook app, which prevents them from engaging with the social network’s likes, comments, groups, pages, and feeds. In this article, I will explain what the Facebook problem of “no data available” means, why it happens, and how to repair it. ## About No Data Available on Facebook Error When Facebook users want to access comments, likes, or other content, they cannot do so since the relevant data is unavailable. The “no data available” error message appears for certain users whenever they try to see the number of likes or comments on a post after tapping those options. It may show up on both of the postings, whether they are yours or your friends. There is no reason for alarm; the problem has nothing to do with your computer, network, or account. The Facebook app has a malfunction or bug causing this issue. The update may appear on the app’s iOS or Android version. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ACelKOZ4QIc7uikDptumSPautXTQ_cShUAhXiUQ8vl5bDMYaXAy8Sc0Ka75bymmBUxpQ8Nh44ZfEhF2PhCcFvycxyGNelRFfjb69LzwlSgadym9C9zWUqasrnxnKN8zJfdP2lHR0BsN8JpInWN1moZFDI0XUolEhquRMgVEN38dEUpgdbkuYYxqthQ) [Image source](https://wealthquint.com/no-data-available-facebook-35133/#:~:text=No%20Data%20Available%20Facebook%20Message%20appears%20whenever%20you%20tap%20on,switching%20to%20the%20Facebook%20website.) ## Why Does It Say No Data Available? At least once in their life, every Facebook user sees the “No data available” message. Several factors, such as: 1. In the meanwhile, Facebook is experiencing some technical difficulties. 2. Modifying the content’s privacy settings 3. Deleted My Facebook Account 4. [Account deactivated](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) on social networking site 5. Someone has blocked you, or you have blocked someone. ## How to Fix No Data Available Error ### Check if Facebook is Down See whether Facebook.com is experiencing any problems first. You may use the down detection tool to see whether Facebook is currently down. Learn about the Facebook outage that occurred 24 hours ago. If Facebook is experiencing server issues, all you can do is wait until the issue is resolved. ### Improve Your Facebook Experience With the Latest Update It may be happening due to the latest upgrade to the Facebook app; if so, you won’t fix the problem until the next update. Whether a newer version of the Facebook app is available in the Play Store, you may upgrade to it and see if the problem has been resolved. ### Erase All Cache Files If you’re having trouble with the Facebook app, try clearing its cache. Find the Facebook app by searching for it in your device’s app store. To clear your cache, use the button labeled “Clear Cache.” After that, launch Facebook again to see whether the “No Data Available” message has vanished. ### Go to the Facebook Website  You may access Facebook from your mobile device’s browser by going to https://facebook.com/, entering your login information, and then accessing your account normally. For the most part, problems only appear in mobile applications, whereas desktop users of the Facebook app never have any problems. ## No Data Available on Likes You may see how many people have approved of an article by clicking the Facebook likes shown on each given item. Yet, many Facebook users have reported seeing an error that prevents them from liking a post. The number of individuals who have loved the item is hidden, replaced with the statement “no data available.” The Facebook app has a flaw that allows for this to be permanently disabled. You may get rid of it by clearing the cache, upgrading the app, or going to Facebook.com. ## No Data Available on Reactions You can check how many people have responded to a specific post by clicking the Facebook Reactions button. Facebook users have been reporting that they are getting the “No Data Available” message when trying to see the number of reactions to a post by clicking the “React” button. Clearing the cache, updating the Facebook app (if a new version is available), or transferring to the website version from a browser should fix the “No Data Available On Facebook” error, which is caused by a bug in the app. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LHELkedIMPl0zPPRIUwAf7Nu0jMox23ATmeVzTyXeTvp4B8Gn8R_om9jlkuJppZ_SDmaoTTkd-_GcTHpetCX1JyIf_71SpMhVN-N6JAiH1e6pAkZIRN8Ok6LFhuJcM6aqYyh92kVIemcuMMPy_3HnNUU9ptLpCdHrmIG7IXxdD0ZH-Zm96jgh2oeOQ) [Image source](https://techbriefly.com/2022/05/27/how-to-fix-no-data-available-facebook-error/) ## No Data Available on the Facebook Page When starting the Facebook app, some people get the “No data available” warning, and nothing shows up in their feed. A “no data available” notification is shown on the homepage or feed. For this reason, people are unable to see the feed. Due to a bug, this occurs in the app. Attempting an app update, clearing cache, and going to the Facebook website are all things you may do to fix the problem. ## No Data Available on Messages The Facebook app alerts you to new messages whenever you launch it. The Facebook app is showing this warning because of a technical problem. You may fix the problem by upgrading to the app’s most recent version, clearing the app’s cache, and accessing Facebook using a web browser. ## No Data Available on Groups Users may get the “No Data Available” message in [Facebook groups](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-keep-your-facebook-group-active/), preventing them from seeing members or other group-related data. It’s because of the Facebook app’s bug, which you may fix by deleting the cache, upgrading the software, or switching to the Facebook website. ## Ways to Clear Data on Facebook Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies may fix the problem, as we said. All the steps to delete Facebook’s cache will be listed below, broken down by browser and app version. ### Android Phone 1. Choose Settings 2. Select Notifications and Applications to access these features. 3. Browse the apps and choose Facebook. 4. Select Storage. 5. Click Cache, then Clear Cache. ### iPhone 1. You’ll see a menu in the Facebook app’s lower right corner with three vertical lines. 2. The “Settings & Privacy” option will be at the bottom of the following page. 3. There will be a sub-menu that you may choose from. Select “Settings” from the menu. 4. Select “Browser” from the menu that appears. 5. Select “Clear Browsing Data.” ### Safari 1. After launching your browser, go to the options menu and choose Delete Private Data. 2. If you want more information, use the “Details” option. 3. If you don’t want to clear cookies, passwords, or any other information, deselect the corresponding box. 4. Hit the erase button. 5. Go to your browser’s History tab and hit the Delete All button. 6. You should then return to the homepage and choose the Preferences option. 7. Then, when you reach the bottom, choose the option to Delete Cookies. ### Opera 1. After opening Safari, go to the File menu and choose Empty Cache. 2. Select empty from the menu. ### Firefox 1. To access Firefox’s options, choose it from the left-hand menu. 2. Afterward, go to Recent History > Clear. 3. First, ensure the ‘Details’ menu is visible, and then choose the Cache option. Ignore all other boxes and click Dismiss. 4. Select All Available from the Time Range to Clear drop-down menu. 5. Make a clean slate right now second by clicking the Clear Now button. ### Chrome 1. Choose the gear icon in the browser’s menu to adjust settings. 2. Click Tools, followed by Clear Browsing Data. 3. You may clear the cache by selecting the “Empty the cache” checkbox. If you don’t want to delete any data by accident, uncheck everything else. 4. Choose the Delete Browsing History link. ## Bottom line Numerous users have mentioned that they want to see the number of likes, views, reactions, etc., for a particular post but instead get a “no data available” message whenever they try. It is only the result of an error or problem in the Facebook program. Although resetting the cache or installing the latest app version might help, the problem may still exist after these steps have been taken. You should visit Facebook’s website to correct the issue until Facebook fixes the problem. Was this article helpful to you? I have jotted down anything that comes to me that I believe might be of use to you, and I have included it all. - [How To Resolve Facebook Marketplace Not Working Issue?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-resolve-facebook-marketplace-not-working-issue/) - [What Is Z Library? Review Of Features And Membership](https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-z-library/) - [Snapchat Keeps Crashing? Here Is How To Fix It](https://alejandrorioja.com/snapchat-keeps-crashing-here-is-how-to-fix-it/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A few things have shifted since this post first went up. **Meta dropped the legacy "Page" verification track in 2024** and folded it into **Meta Verified** ($14.99–$19.99/mo depending on tier and country) — the blue check is now a subscription, not a one-time review. Friend-request flows still work as described, though Meta moved the bulk-cancel UI deeper into mobile settings; the desktop `m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing` route still works (2026-04 spot check). Worth knowing in 2026: ~3.07B Facebook MAU (Meta Q4 2025 earnings), but the share of *time-on-platform* relative to Reels and WhatsApp has continued sliding. If this post is part of an outreach strategy, weight WhatsApp and Threads (yes — Threads survived the 2024 pivot speculation and crossed 200M MAU) accordingly. --- ## Instagram Story Highlight: How To Use It For Brand Account? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-story-highlight-how-to-use-it-for-brand-account/ Published: 2022-09-21 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Millennials and Gen Z users are also the majority on Instagram, and 25% use the platform to search for products and services. As you learn more about Instagram Highlights, it just means that the platform has a potential market and could turn users into paying customers. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Instagram Story Highlights are big on the platform, and users actively post and watch Stories daily. It has become part of people’s lives, especially the generation of Millenials and Gen Zs. Besides your website, Instagram is also a great way to introduce and feature your products and services since Instagram has hundreds of millions of users you can reach out to. These Instagram Highlights can organize and let you keep your stories after 24 hours. So highly viewed stories with many engagements can be posted in the Highlights to keep those highly engaging posts gaining prospects and customers.  Instagram Highlights is another feature where users can view Instagram Stories on their profile anytime. These stories are organized into collections and easily identified by viewers or your followers as the contents inside those collections. I am going to elaborate more on how to use Instagram story highlights on a brand account. ## What You Should Know About Instagram Story Highlight Brands have been making the most out of Instagram’s features for reaching out to their customers and prospects since social media lets you meet where people are. With [Instagram’s 500 million active users](https://techjury.net/blog/instagram-stories-statistics/#gref) and user experience design, you can gain followings and engagements and use it to your advantage in brand awareness. [70% of these Instagram users watch Stories daily](https://techjury.net/blog/instagram-stories-statistics/#gref), a great way to introduce and feature your products and services. Millennials and Gen Z users are also the majority on Instagram, and 25% use the platform to search for products and services.  As you learn more about Instagram Highlights, it just means that the platform has a potential market and could [turn users into paying customers.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-improve-conversion-rate-of-a-young-business/) Also, customers will be more likely to interact and be kept through your posts and live online sessions. Now, I’ll guide you throughout the article so you’ll be able to post Instagram Highlights that can [engage your followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-check-who-visits-your-instagram-account/). Also, I’ll recommend some of the best and most convenient apps you can use for your Stories so you can add them to your Highlights.  ## 1\. Select Instagram Stories To Add On Story Highlights There are two ways to add your Stories to your profile’s highlights: your Story Archive or active Stories. ### Story Archive You can add previous Stories you’ve posted to your Instagram Highlights by going through your Archive: 1. On your Instagram profile, tap the three horizontal lines, then go to Archive. 2. From there, you can select the Stories you want to add to your Highlights by tapping them and clicking on Highlight at the bottom of the selected Instagram Story. 3. You can then add it to an existing Highlight or create a new Highlight to put the Story on. ### Active Stories Add your Stories to your Highlight by tapping on the active Story. Then tap on the Highlight (with a heart icon inside a circle) to add it to an existing Highlight, or you can add it to a new one at the bottom of the Story. ## 2\. Make Cover Images For Each Instagram Highlight Making cover images or icons for each of your Instagram Highlights lets the users easily navigate the Stories they want to see in your highlights. The users can easily browse through the Highlights, whether the organized in-season collection, testimonials, FAQs, or ordering guide. Putting cover images for Highlights also adds consistency to your branding and its theme. You can follow the following steps: 1. Go to your Instagram profile 2. Select from the Highlights you want to put the cover image in 3. Tap More on the bottom right corner 4. Select Edit Highlight 5. Then Edit Cover 6. Upload the image of the icon you want to label for the Highlight 7. Lastly, tap Done  ## Recommended Editing Apps For Instagram Story And Highlights Suppose you’re just getting started or would like to make sure you’ll post the best of the best of your Instagram stories. In that case, you can use these apps to edit your Instagram Stories or the cover images of your Highlights. ### Canva Besides being free and easy to navigate, [Canva](http://canva.com) also has thousands of templates for Instagram Stories and size templates. Thus, you won’t take many hours creating layouts for your Stories. You can collaborate with colleagues for ideas and designs by sharing the link to your Canva or adding their email addresses. The app works on mobile, tablet, and desktop. It’s free but has premium access to other graphics, fonts, photos, and templates. ### Unfold [Unfold](https://unfold.com/) provides thousands of aesthetic layouts, such as Retro, Clasico, Film Frames, Ripped Paper, and more designs from which the app stands out. Other editing options include image filters, stickers, fonts, and backgrounds. It’s a free app that works on iPhone and Android phones, but its monthly paid plan starts at $19.99. ### Pond5 Videos are one of the great ways to tell a story on your Instagram Story, so make sure you have a good video editing app to help you with your project. [Pond5](https://www.pond5.com/) is a free video editing app that works on desktops which you can use for Instagram Stories. Plus, you can make vertical videos here smoothly or choose from the pre-made ones. ### Buffer If you don’t always have the time of day or are sometimes forgetful about when to post Instagram Stories, [Buffer](https://buffer.com/) is an app that can help you preview, schedule, and post them. The app works on iOS, Android, and desktop. Note that Buffer doesn’t automatically and directly post your Instagram Story to your account. The app will notify you of the media and [captions](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-art-of-persuasion-tips-and-tricks-on-writing-effective-headlines/) you must post on Instagram Story. Buffer has a free trial of up to 10 scheduled posts, and its paid plan is from $15 up to $399 a month. You can follow these steps in scheduling your Instagram Stories for posting: 1. On the Publish tab, under it is another set of tabs. Click on the Stories tab. 2. Click on Add to Story and then click on Add Media to upload photos or videos. 3. You can arrange the order of your stories. 4. If you want to remind yourself to add captions, texts, emojis, stickers, and hashtags to your Story, click Add Note. Thus, it will be easier to add those later on by simply pasting them to the actual post. 5. Then, you can see a preview of your Story by clicking on the Preview button at the bottom beside the Schedule Story button. 6. Once satisfied with your Story, click the Schedule Story button to select the time and date. ## Making Your Instagram Story Highlight More Engaging Take note of each Instagram highlight’s purpose since that’s where you can brainstorm which Instagram Stories add. So here are some of the things you can do to create a Story Highlight more engaging to users.  ### Feature Influencers And Your Followers You can feature influencers who have tested your products or services, whether a review or reaction video. Moreover, your followers should also share the spotlight and a way for your community to interact with each other. People from the community know so much about your brand and could share some insights, so they need a voice and other users to engage in the content with them. ### Create A Product Guide Since you can use Instagram Highlights to inform users about your offer, you can make an engaging product or service guide. You can also put the price on services that provide packages, such as spas or salons. ### Repurpose Contents You can repurpose content from other social media platforms, your website, or your previous Instagram posts. Make graphic info or layout them into digestible content considering the size of an Instagram Story. ### Give Weekly Updates Make a Story Highlights where you can put weekly updates so that your followers won’t be able to miss out on anything, such as promotions and new products or services. Thus, it’s easier and more convenient for you not to post from time to time and for users to navigate and look for updates so they won’t miss anything. ## To Sum Up! You can make your brand stand out through your social media platforms, especially on how you would present yourself to your prospects and customers. More than aesthetic design, it must be consistent with its content throughout Instagram and other platforms.  Such Highlights are used for featuring these products and services, FAQs, testimonials, rewards, or positive feedback throughout the years up to the present times. You can also use Highlights for announcements for product launches and annual or promotional events. Want to know more about brand awareness for your business? Check any of these posts! - [4 Ways To Use Digital Marketing To Grow Your Brand](https://flux.la/4-ways-to-use-digital-marketing-to-grow-your-brand/) - [Top 8 Most Interesting Content Marketing Examples](https://flux.la/top-8-content-marketing-examples/) - [Top 7 Social Media Sites To Consider For Your Brand](https://flux.la/top-7-social-media-sites-to-consider-for-your-brand/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top Tips On Growing Snapchat Followers Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-on-growing-snapchat-followers/ Published: 2022-09-21 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Generally, Snapchat+ costs $3.99 or £3.99 per month and includes: - Snap Stars will see your story replies more quickly if you give them a priority - You may now choose an emoji for your friends to see after they view your Snap. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The vast audience that Snapchat attracts is beneficial in many ways. Followers are valuable for various business functions, including internal operations and advertising. Finding people who use Snapchat as a follower is challenging but not impossible.  You may connect with more individuals and receive comments on your profile and posts if you have more followers. More opportunities result. Creating a Snapchat account allows users to connect more easily with their peers on a social level.  Do you want to get some friends on Snapchat? It can be hard, especially if nobody knows you and you don’t know what to do.  Fortunately, I will share with you a few strategies that you may use to increase the number of your Snapchat friends and bring more attention to your brands. Keep reading to learn more! ## What’s the point of Snapchat? Snapchat is centered on private, person-to-person photo sharing. You can also send films, live chat, messages, and create Bitmoji avatars. Snapchat allows private media storage.  Additionally, [Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) is all about instant communication. Social media was desktop-based before Snapchat. You’d put statuses, tweets, and images online so pals could remark. Snapchat revolutionized online communication. After a friend opens a Snapchat snapshot of you with a rainbow-puking AR lens, it disappears forever.  They can screenshot it and reply with a photo or video. Certainly, this app is versatile. ## What is Snapchat+? Snapchat+ is a paid subscription service that offers special features. Generally, Snapchat+ costs $3.99 or £3.99 per month and includes: - Snap Stars will see your story replies more quickly if you give them a priority - You may now choose an emoji for your friends to see after they view your Snap. You can customize your Snap signature - Snapchat+ users can access new Bitmoji backgrounds - You can modify app icons on your home screen - Snapchat for Web – call or message Snapchat pals from your computer ## How to Get More Snapchat Friends and Followers [Snapchat followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) are plentiful. 186 million daily Snapchat users. Snapchat friends must connect differently without user lists or discovery options. Insta-inspiration, old-fashioned tactics, and Snapchat’s features can boost your Snapchat following. These 7 strategies will help you quickly gain Snapchat followers: ### 1\. Let Everyone Know About SnapCode Snapcodes are QR codes that look like the Snapchat logo. You may have seen them on Twitter. Adding someone on Snapchat is as easy as snapping their code. Once you’ve taken a picture of the SnapCode or saved it, go to Snapchat’s “Add Friends” section.  There, you’ll see “Add by SnapCode.” If you tap this, your camera roll will open, and you can scan the Snapcode. Snapcodes can be found on the Snapchat website. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tXVmypiwVoTOZv7Dem6VKPGaNGjsaD8uf6fV1S-Uy8lYuY85AOt8WYzVhjIDxtMiAFNQCEncAtnnlJ_xCZ-dsHrnx-9fZQwtS4Xs6S7TQNMuH75Yk6cTYdx8cB5zNvhCvnrudXIb2sy3cVNfCe6Bc1nQ2mD7_zjtpz4evgGsfYrgyYguhsGm6PHaZQ) Image Source: [How to Share Your Snapcode in Snapchat](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9fg887B3Jw) #### Where to Promote Snapchat using Snapcode **1\. Websites:** You may add your Snapcode to the page of contact. **2\. Blog Endings:** If someone reads your blog piece, they may also like your Snapchat.  **3\. Sign-off Emails:** Links to social accounts in email footers are common. Include your Snapchat and put the link there.  **4\. Newsletters:** Your brand’s newsletter should promote Snapchat by adding Snapcode in the email’s header/footer. **5\. Cardstocks:** Consider this for [business](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) cards. Include Snapcodes on receipts, packaging, and price tags to attract followers. **6\. Advertisements:** Ads, posters, brochures, and even jumbotrons can all feature Snapcodes for users to scan. ### 2\. Storytell Good news gets around. Make your stories interesting, so they get put in “For You” or shared by people who follow you. Consider the following ideas for your posts: **1\. Get Creative:** Good headlines grab attention. **2\. Storyboard:** The hook should be fulfilled. **3\. Concise:** Snapchat users have short attention spans. **4\. Music:** Link music or background noise to improve your story. **5\. Video Captions:** Make your story available to everyone, even those without sound. **6\. Lingo:** Keep up with your audience’s terminology and phrases so you may speak their language. #### ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MgrXwPAUYu4DXwZhlmmz0Gt8vh1boA9uCdRLFRKOlvJmFk0XGNkzFikLJF7IJDL9Sgy4ojo8XK0P6pfUBieCiucJddGhsfEY6SDGLQhTy49RpxCKZMWwe_NhNo51Ht4dACUe1VLjRfRAB3RlWVZD9VW8WTeQuJ-HjoL6OmygnykuVW5yVOBXX9wXTQ) Image Source: [Google](https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Snapchat-App-Stories-Octi.jpg) ### 3\. Snaptakeovers Collaborate with a friend to “take over” your Snapchat. Both of you can promote each other’s content to your respective audiences. In fact, Snapchat “takeovers” are very popular with brands. Including a special guest in your story can greatly increase your audience size and exposure. Snapchat takeovers should only be attempted if you are certain a trusted friend or acquaintance has consented to control the account for no more than X hours. ### 4\. Trend-watch Every month, Snapchat blogs about trends. Each piece includes trendy entertainment, popular emojis, top celebs, and slang. ### 5\. Promo Snapchat Ads are put into other Snappers’ pictures and tales. Focus on the audience’s interests. If your audience likes football like Bud Light, the NFL and NFL team audiences are a good fit. Include a direct call-to-action if you want. As with social video, keep it brief. According to Snapchat, 0:03 – 0:05 is the sweet spot for Snap Ad length. ### 6\. Insights from Snapchat Snapchat statistics monitor how well you’ve reached your goals. Discovering your audience, how often your stories have been viewed, how far your material has spread, and other metrics can help you evaluate your strategy. You should also keep track of the number of people who follow you. Track your following and the rates at which you acquire new followers before commencing a new campaign or plan. ### 7\. Snapchat Giveaway Giveaways can boost sales, following, and email lists. Additionally, giveaways don’t require your life savings or dream home.  Giving your audience value can boost engagement. Snapchat giveaways can expand your follower base by attracting new users. Create a giveaway on Snapchat and promote it elsewhere. You can co-promote the giveaway with other influencers in your niche. ## Is there any way to become well-known on Snapchat? Yes, you can get famous on Snapchat by getting people’s attention, but it’s not easy. No one could do it in one day. On the way to stardom, the only way to be sure of success is to work hard. Figure out how to get people to pay attention to you on Snapchat without wasting time. ## It’s Possible To Get Snapchat Followers For Free Through the years, developments in social media and technology, in general, have made things much simpler. All the resources you could need are just a mouse click away. Regarding social media, there is not much of a distinction between the two. Getting recognized on Snapchat is possible and will happen to you, too, if you put in the effort.  Investing in a well-planned social media strategy is required. This also allows you to broaden your horizons and interact with new people. You can develop into the outgoing person you were always destined to be and genuine. To answer your question, yes, it is feasible to acquire friends and followers on Snapchat without having to pay anything. And certainly, having many friends on Snapchat will help you be recognized more quickly. ## More Tips that will Help You Get Noticed on Snapchat When none of the ways you’re trying to get known on Snapchat, it can be hard not to feel frustrated. Don’t give up, and you should push yourself harder and try to figure things out. There are a lot of different things you can do on Snapchat to get someone’s attention. Improve the quality of the content you make as a whole. Try to come up with great ideas that catch other people’s attention and make them want to follow you. Don’t compare yourself to other well-known people or successful business people. Instead, you should look to see if anything needs to be emphasized more or less. ## To Wrap Up! Think about the people you want to reach, and try to see things from the point of view of the Snapchat users you already know. If you were just some random Snapchat user, would you click the follow button on your account? That should tell you all the other things you need to know about how to get noticed on Snapchat. Like this post? Leave a comment below on your Snapchat journey to popularity! Also, learn more from other articles I’ve written about different social media platforms: - [How to Get More Snapchat Followers and Make Money 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) - [Twitter Scripts: Accept all FOllower Requests, Unfollow, Like All Tweets, and more](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) - [Get Verified on Facebook: Page or Profile (Blue + Gray Verification Badge) for FREE](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## 10 Useful Tools To Find OnlyFans Accounts Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/10-useful-tools-to-find-onlyfans-accounts/ Published: 2022-09-20 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Onlyfans is a social media subscription-based platform that lets users upload adult videos and photographs to their account, charging the subscribers $4.99 to 49.99$ monthly or yearly. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Since OnyFans has a limited search option, you must use other OnlyFans search tools. Onlyfans is a social media subscription-based platform that lets users upload adult videos and photographs to their account, charging the subscribers $4.99 to 49.99$ monthly or yearly. 80% of the profit goes to the creators, while 20 % goes to OnlyFans.  As the popularity of OnlyFans continues to grow and more people sign up for the service, it has become increasingly difficult to find certain profiles you would like to follow.  OnlyFans has a limited search button that keeps search results to protect the privacy and security of content creators. Finding someone’s profile is challenging, even if the objective is to promote anonymity and encourage more authors to join. But don’t worry, I’ve gathered the list of the top 10 OnlyFans search tools that could help you find the OnlyFans content creator you’re looking for. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Molwm33yAU ## What is OnlyFans? OnlyFans is a social media platform with a subscription-based model introduced in 2016 that allows users to sell and buy unique content. Users can upload NSFW (not safe for work) videos and photographs to their accounts, which are protected when used as an adult website. It is a platform that focuses on the engagement and communication between artists and fans of all genres. The platform enables both the posting of content by creators and the simultaneous interaction between them and their following. ## How do Creators in OnlyFans make money? By offering a subscription service, [Onlyfans make money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-onlyfans-make-money/). Users pay content producers a set subscription price. 80% of the profits go to creators, with 20% to OnlyFans. Based on the platform’s limitations, authors can choose their subscription costs. To access the content, one must pay a monthly subscription that costs between $4.99 and $49.99.  An average creator with 21 subscribers can make $151 in gross monthly income (before OnlyFans takes its cut). Top earners, on the other hand, earned between $5,000 and $100,000 each month. It depends on your subscriber count, how much they tip, and how often you post new content. ## What makes OnlyFans unique? There are a few things that make OnlyFans unique from other NSFW websites:   ### 1\. Subscription-Based Platform It means you can only access content if you are a paying subscriber. This makes it more exclusive than other sites, which can often be accessed for free. Generally, this subscription fee helps to keep the site clean and safe for all users. ### 2\. Creators Can Set Their Own Price Once creators set their own price for their content, it gives them more control over how they monetize their work. It means that creators can be sure that their content will not be pirated or shared without their permission. ### 3\. Has a Messaging Feature OnlyFans also offers a messaging feature that allows fans to communicate directly with their favorite creators, unlike other NSFW websites.  ## Top 10 OnlyFans Search Tool ### 1\. FansMetrics [FansMetrics](https://fansmetrics.com/) Database is updated hourly and has over 200 million OnlyFans accounts. The users also have the option of filtering accounts by geography, gender, and other categories. If you wish to look for OnlyFans accounts nearby, you can click “Find OnlyFans accounts near you,” and the app will locate the top accounts nearby.  Additionally, several countries are available, including the US, the UK, Germany, Brazil, Canada, Spain, and others. If you’re looking for free trials, click “Free Trials,” then select your preferred account to get the free trial link. Finally, by selecting “TikTok Stars,” “Instagram Models,” or “Reddit Famous,” you may look up popular OnlyFans profiles on TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit. ### 2\. OnlyFinder For OnlyFans, [OnlyFinder](https://onlyfinder.com/) is the simplest search option. It provides a simplified user interface with a search field where users may type the name of the user they want to visit. You can utilize the tool’s search button by typing keywords. #### How to find someone on Onlyfinder through their name? 1. Open the browser and enter “www.onlyfinder.com” to access the page. 2. Type the person’s name into the search bar in step two. 3. Choose the user you were looking for from the list of users whose names fit your query. #### How to find a content creator on OnlyFans by location? 1. Visit OnlyFinder.com now. 2. The word “Map” will be clickable text on your page. Click it! 3. Look at the world map of OnlyFans creators to select the location you wish to search for. #### How to find people in your area on OnlyFans 1. Visit OnlyFinder.com 2. Use the format below:  Place: “place” + “distance” Example: Place: “Brooklyn City” plus 10 km View the creators’ results within that radius of the address you typed. You can type in whatever place or distance you like, including countries and states, and it will display all creators within a 10-kilometer radius of Brooklyn City in this instance. ### 3\. Reddit [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/) is another platform that most OnlyFans creators utilize to market themselves. The reason is that Reddit allows NSFW content. Additionally, Reddit features a large number of NSFW communities for a variety of categories. The user can view more NSFW communities by filtering the search results to “communities” and joining them. You can type in the search bar directly keywords like “OnlyFans.”  ### 4\. Ranking-fans.com [Ranking-fans.com](https://ranking-fans.com/) is a tool that displays OnlyFans accounts based on their popularity and ranking on the OnlyFans app. The user won’t waste time looking for the individual if they previously spotted them on the website’s home page. #### How to find someone on Ranking-fans.com 1. Go to [Ranking-fans.com](https://ranking-fans.com/) and enter the user’s name in the search bar. 2. The search results will show the user’s ranking, the number of subscribers, and average monthly earnings. 3. You can also use the search tools to find specific types of content on OnlyFans, such as photos, videos, or GIFs. 4. Select the content type from the drop-down menu and enter your search terms into the search bar. 5. The results will show you a list of the most popular OnlyFans profiles for that content type. ### 5\. OnlySearch Fans can connect with the creators they’re looking for on OnlyFans via [OnlySearch](https://onlysearch.co/). The profile image, bio, price, location, and display name are all keywords that users can search for. Additionally, the profiles will appear in the search according to the key phases, and the results will link them directly to the creator’s profile.  Only search aims to help OnlyFans creators become more well-known and expand their followings. ### 6\. Topcreators.net [Topcreators.net](https://topcreators.net/) is one of the most popular search engines for OnlyFans accounts, where users can use the tool on the website to find information with registered guides. You can search by country, category, gender, price range, and location.  ### 7\. TikTok One popular method for fans to search the OnlyFans profile of their favorite star is [Tiktok](https://www.tiktok.com/foryou?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1). However, Tiktok has limitations and prohibits authors from using the hashtag Onlyfans. Several OnlyFans creators use a Linktree link because they cannot use their OnlyFans link in their bio.  Linktree allows you to locate several links on one page. You can search the OnlyFans profile if you type”accountantsoftiktok” in the search bar.  ### 8\. Hubite.com [Hubite.com](https://hubite.com/en/) is an OnlyFans search engine that enables you to search every account’s information and helps artists build a digital identity that makes them discoverable to users. You can search the OnlyFans account by category.  Generally, you can use their name or social media profile to search the OnlyFans account. [Hubite.com](https://hubite.com/en/) has the most extensive list of free OnlyFans.  #### How to Find Someone on Hubite.com 1. Go to [Hubite.com](https://hubite.com/en/). 2. Enter the username into the search bar. 3. You can also use Hubite.com’s advanced search options to narrow down your results. 4. Once you find the OnlyFans profile you’re looking for, click on it to access the creator’s content. ### 9.Socialmediagirls.com [Socialmediagirls.com](http://socialmediagirls.com) is efficient in searching for the OnlyFans users you’re looking for. Its interface is easy to understand. There are popular accounts that you can select, or you can go to the search bar and look for the users directly if they are not on the homepage. If you’re unsure who you’re looking for, you can browse through the site’s database of popular OnlyFans users. You can also use Socialmediagirls.com to find OnlyFans creators similar to those you already follow. It is a great way to find new content that you’ll enjoy. ### 10\. Instagram and Twitter [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/) users can share photographs and videos with their friends and followers. OnlyFans content creators use [captions](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-instagram-captions/) with the hashtag “OnlyFans” to make them searchable for other Instagram users.  Users of [Twitter](https://twitter.com/?lang=en) can publish brief updates called tweets. These tweets may include text, videos, images, or links. Twitter users can [make money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-twitter-make-money/) through promoted tweets, accounts and hashtags, and data licensing.  To find the OnlyFans profile on Twitter and Instagram, go to the search section and type the hashtag “#OnlyFans” or “#OnlyFanspage,” “#onlyfanscreator,” and “#onlyfansbabe.” ### 11\. OnlySelects [Onlyselects.com](https://onlyselects.com/) is a must-visit website for those who love exploring new and exciting OnlyFans accounts. With over 50 categories to choose from, you can easily search for accounts that match your unique interests and preferences. Plus, with options to search by country, you can explore models from all over the world.  What sets Onlyselects.com apart is its dedication to providing access to completely free OnlyFans accounts, without sacrificing quality content. With a free trial option, you can test out multiple profiles and find the ones that resonate best with you. Additionally, Onlyselects.com provides insights into which OnlyFans models were most popular with fans each week, making it convenient for you to stay up-to-date on the latest and greatest content. ## Bottom line Content producers utilize social media links to advertise their profiles on OnlyFans, as there is no direct way to look for a profile on their website. You can use third-party websites or search tools to find the profile you’ve been looking for.  Which of the search tools is the most efficient for you? Comment it down below. Want to make money on Social Media? Check out the following posts below: - [7 Ways to Combine Email and Social Media Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/7-ways-to-combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) - [How To Do Twitter Marketing And Grow Your Account 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-twitter-marketing/) - [Instagram Marketing: Instagram Essentials and Content Creation](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-marketing-instagram-essentials-and-content-creation/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The 2026 reality on adult-content-search tooling: most third-party "find profiles" tools described in older guides are gone or have pivoted (legal-pressure waves in 2024 took out many search engines for these platforms). **OnlyFinder** rebranded and added age-verification gating in late 2024. The platform itself (~$6.6B 2024 revenue per filings, with creators paid out ~$5.4B of that) added native search and discovery in early 2025, making third-party tools less necessary than the post's framing implies. This post stays online as a historical reference; in 2026 the practical answer for most queries that landed here is "use the platform's built-in search." --- ## Best Textsheet Alternatives For Students Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/best-textsheet-alternatives-for-students/ Published: 2022-09-19 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: Productivity TL;DR: Students need to pay a monthly subscription of $9.95 to view the answers from multiple tutors. From there, they select and sometimes rate which of these answers are good enough for homework, essays, or research papers. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Taking advantage of technology and the information age has provided learning materials and resources where they can easily retrieve the answers to their homework, problem sets, and more.  Textsheet is one of those educational websites that help out students with their education and reviewing their lessons. It has gained popularity because it’s easy to use and free of charge, which is convenient for students, especially those who grew up in the digital age.  Although Textsheet didn’t last long due to legal issues, other alternative educational websites also have easy navigation and free access to students. Educational platforms like Textsheet have been really helpful to students to get answers from their assignments, projects, research papers, and more. Textsheet has been one of the top platforms that gained popularity among students. Millions of students use Textsheet because it’s free and has an easy user interface to get accurate yet quick answers. Also, the students get access to Chegg questions and answers or solutions through Chegg API by pasting the Chegg link on Textsheet.  Chegg may not give access unless you’re logged in to your account and pay a monthly subscription fee. Textsheet has been one of the ways for students to get access to the data from the site. Because of this, Chegg filed a complaint against Textsheet. If you’re looking for an alternative to Textsheet, keep reading! I will give you 9 options you can try. Some of which I even used before. ## Textsheet Copyright Infringement Textsheet isn’t accessible anymore on the internet because it has faced a lawsuit concerning a copyright infringement filed by Chegg. The site has been taken down for violating Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) since they copied the paid content from other educational websites. It may not be good news for millions of students who depend on free access to paid content on other websites. But there are alternative educational websites with features that can still help the students review and answer their homework problems, projects, research, and more. These educational websites may help you write your essays, provide study sets for reviewing for exams, and answer homework questions and problem sets from different course programs or subjects. So below are other educational websites that can help you get answers to your academic tasks and review for exams: ## 1\. Course Hero  [Course Hero](https://www.coursehero.com/) provides answers to your homework questions or problems through tutors from different course programs and subjects.  Students need to pay a monthly subscription of $9.95 to view the answers from multiple tutors. From there, they select and sometimes rate which of these answers are good enough for homework, essays, or research papers. The site’s tutors can also be students, degree graduates, or teachers. A compliance team monitors the tutors’ quality of their answers to each assigned question.  With that, the site ensures that the answers provided are quality, as they shouldn’t just be copied from the internet or other references. This is why it’s required for tutors to provide comprehensive explanations apart from the answer and the references they used in getting the answers. You can also get paid access to the tutors’ uploaded research papers, textbooks, essays, and more.  ## 2\. Chegg [Chegg](https://www.chegg.com/) also works and has similar features to Course Hero, where you must have paid access to view the answers to your questions. Their monthly subscription is $14 to access different materials.  Along with the answers, a step-by-step explanation is provided. They are an ultimate guide and helper to students since they also offer the following services: 1. Book rentals 2. Online courses 3. Assistance to research papers 4. Scholarship search 5. College application advice 6. 24/7 technical support ### Math Solver The site also has a [Math Solver](https://www.chegg.com/math-solver) feature, which you can get for $9.95 monthly (cancel anytime).  ### Perks Math Solver can be used for free and also has premium features. The following are the only services you can get from Math Solver for free: 1. Solutions to the math problem (3 solutions per day) 2. Basic explanation of the math problem 3. Ad-free on the Chegg app For Math Solver premium access, these are the following features you can enjoy: 1. Solutions to the math problem 2. Basic explanation of the math problem 3. Step-by-step explanation 4. Ad-free on the Chegg app and website 5. Graphing calculator The Chegg mobile app also lets you take a pic of the equation or math problem for it to get solved. Therefore, no need to waste time typing the equation.  ## 3\. Quizlet [Quizlet](https://quizlet.com/) can provide answers to textbook exercises, quizzes, and questions and, at the same time, can be used as study or review materials such as flash cards. They can give you free-trial access for 15 days and get to pay for access to other features, learning material, and other services.  Aside from providing answers to homework questions and exercises, their key feature is providing flashcards to users for effective learning and memorizing concepts and terms. ## 4\. School Solver [School Solver](https://www.schoolsolver.com/) has similar features to Textsheet since the site can also unblur Course Hero’s and Chegg’s answers. Also, it has features similar to Course Hero and Chegg regarding freelance tutoring. Tutors can earn multiple times because the site redirects students that have asked the same or related questions to your existing answer. You can earn up to $500 from that one single answer. ## 5\. EssayPro [EssayPro](https://essaypro.com/) has been an essay writing service site for 20 years. Students need essays for university admissions, homework, case study, journal or article reviews, and more.  It works like other [writing services online](https://alejandrorioja.com/do-i-need-to-hire-writers-for-niche-website-content/). You get to order skilled writers for the particular essay you want to write and ask for unlimited revisions within the first 30 days. Their quality assurance team will review the essay to check for errors and plagiarism. ## 6\. Studylib [Studylib](https://studylib.net/) has a huge database of learning materials and resources that students can access to hundreds of thousands of documents and flashcards. Their services are free but require you to be logged in. They have a unique feature called “flashcard explorer,” where flashcards are organized according to different subject categories. Since many resources are uploaded on the site, you may likely get answers for your homework or exercises. You can also compare and check consistencies across different resources to confirm if your answers are accurate. ## 7\. PaperHelp PaperHelp is also an essay writing services site that has a very user-friendly design where you can get your essay through 3 simple steps: 1. Place an order and fill up the order form 2. Track the progress of the paper you ordered 3. Download the sample paper and get free revisions, if the paper needs necessary changes The site also features the following, which makes the whole process of getting their essays easier for their customers: 1. On-time delivery of the essays where you can even get a paper in just 3 hours 2. 24/7 customer support for your concerns 3. Money-back guarantee 4. 100% plagiarism-free 5. Have Ph.D. and MA-level writers Writing services sites help you out, especially [if writing isn’t your forte](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-art-of-persuasion-tips-and-tricks-on-writing-effective-headlines/). You may also have other tasks besides writing the same or other topics on essays or term papers. PaperHelp can make your academic workload less heavy. ## 8\. Coursera [Coursera](https://www.coursera.org/) gives you access to a huge database of resources, especially for research and learning materials. Ph.D. students would be able to collect relevant materials for their research paper since the site works with different universities and organizations. The site also offers over 3,900 courses and specializations, as it works with different universities and organizations and can provide [online certification](https://alejandrorioja.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-google-certifications/) and degree programs. A course certificate costs $48.99, while a specialization certificate costs $499.99. ## 9\. Study [Study](https://study.com/) is a great platform for educators to teach and share their course materials with online students. The topics are categorized under the subjects available on the site, such as: 1. Math (algebra, calculus, trigonometry, geometry) 2. Science (chemistry, physics, biology) 3. English (grammar, literature, writing) 4. Business 5. Social sciences (psychology, sociology) To better help students with demonstrating and relating concepts, Study has provided animated 5-15 minutes of animated video lessons. The content quality of the course materials is reliable since it’s developed by subject matter experts, professors, and curriculum developers.  ## To Sum Up! The following alternatives can provide more than what Textsheet can offer in supplementing your learnings and helping you answer or solve homework. Most of the services may need paid access. But it can give you a great quality of their features and services, which are very convenient and a smart technique for studying and completing academic homework or research. However, whether the site provides free or premium services, they are likely to help students, which keeps on improving to eliminate barriers between student and online learning. Want to know more about other productivity tools? Check any of these posts! - [What Is Z Library? Review Of Features And Membership](https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-z-library/) - [16 Best Productivity Tools of 2022: Features and Benefits](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) - [How To Use Google Scholar To Generate Content Ideas](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-scholar-to-generate-content-ideas/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Zoom Vs. Google Meet: Which Is Better? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/zoom-vs-google-meet-which-is-better/ Published: 2022-09-13 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Productivity TL;DR: A couple of instances of video conferencing tools are Zoom and Google Meet. In fact, Zoom and Google Meet could appear to be very similar. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Video conferencing is frequently utilized in businesses to promote communication and collaboration inside and outside an organization. You only need to set up the necessary hardware and software to enjoy the experience fully.  A couple of instances of video conferencing tools are Zoom and Google Meet. In fact, Zoom and Google Meet could appear to be very similar. Both services simplify large-scale video conferencing, but much more is happening behind the scenes. However, they are not completely the same. In this article, I will compare the two to help you decide which is best for you. So, keep reading to learn more! ## What is video conferencing? Video conferencing involves a live audio-visual call between two or more persons. No matter the distance, users can communicate with one another in real-time via a good internet connection. Because technology enables face-to-face interaction between people who otherwise couldn’t, video conferencing is important. [Video conferencing is frequently used in businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-live-chat-software-to-download-for-small-businesses/) to facilitate communication and collaboration inside and outside an organization. To make the most of the experience, you only need to set up the required devices and software. ## Talking About Google Meet and Zoom These apps are examples of the biggest video conference tools. Their success is evidence that both platforms offer top-notch meeting capabilities that you can utilize for meetings, virtual events, training sessions, and interviews. Your individual and [company](https://alejandrorioja.com/employee-onboarding-and-online-payroll-services/) needs will determine the appropriate software for you and your business.  Zoom and Google Meet are both excellent choices. However, it is still important to note their key distinctions. Everywhere in the world, businesses and educational institutions employ these two services. Both allow for video conferencing, which enables businesses and educational institutions to hold remote meetings and courses using several apps and devices. The video conferencing platforms Zoom and Google Meet offers many of the same features. However, based on the size of your team and the other applications you want to utilize, one service might be a better fit for your needs. ## Google Meet Features Google Meet is part of the [Google Office](https://www.techrepublic.com/article/google-workspace-a-cheat-sheet/) package, which gives you and your workers access to various productivity tools for work and personal use. Mail, Drive, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, and Slides are among these tools. The biggest advantage of utilizing Google is that every app is integrated and operates in unison to maximize efficiency. ## Zoom Features Zoom is an excellent option for large meetings because it can accommodate many attendees and is compatible with any platform you and your team already use. Additionally, Zoom’s free plan gives you access to all the necessary video conferencing tools, such as breakout rooms, recording meetings, a whiteboard, solid security, and sharing screens, apps, and documents.  Overall, Zoom is dependable and supports most users and meeting durations. ## Pricing Comparisons Google Meet provides: - Free meeting plan with minimal features - Google Office Business Starter for a monthly cost of $6 for each user - Google Office Business Standard for a monthly cost of $12 per access - Google Office Business Plus for a monthly user cost of $18 - Google Office Enterprise, offers individualized pricing In the end, Google provides options that range in price from $0 to $18, based on the requirements of your firm. On the other hand, Zoom Basic, free and frequently used, is the most known package that Zoom offers. Additionally, Zoom has paid options, such as: - Pro Zoom for a monthly cost of $14.99 for each user - Business Zoom for a monthly cost of $19.99 per access - Enterprise Zoom for a monthly user cost of $19.99 The prices for Zoom’s plans range from $0 to $19.99 per user each month. Additionally, the Add-On for Large Meetings, which enables you and your firm to increase your meeting capacity to a thousand attendees, is another cost factor to consider using Zoom. Any of the paid plans come with this add-on. Extra cloud storage is possible with Zoom, starting at $40 a month. ## Integration Comparisons Nearly 200 apps, including PayPal, HubSpot, Write, Square, Trello, FreshBooks, Evernote, Slack, ClickFunnels, Eventbrite, WordPress, and Zapier, are integrated with [Google Meet](https://www.theverge.com/2022/8/28/23325575/google-meet-stealing-zoom-trick-easily-unmute-push-to-talk). Additionally, Google Meet interacts effortlessly with its other productivity and meeting products and Fellow, one of the favorite meeting management programs! Meanwhile, more than 1,000 programs, including Calendly, Pardot, Dropbox, Zapier, Kahoot, and many others, may be connected to Zoom. Due to these qualities, Zoom will function with anything you and your company presently utilize and be dependable. Like the first one, Zoom can enhance the experience of holding virtual meetings and is compatible with powerful meeting management tools like Fellow.  Regarding integrative potential, Zoom is a more alluring alternative than Google Meet due to the wide range of integrations that may be done with it. ## Comparisons of User Friendliness The fact that Google Meet is one of the most user-friendly platforms available is one of the factors contributing to its popularity. To use Google Meet’s capabilities, you must have an [account for Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/). Once you do, your team may host and plan Google Meet sessions together!  Setting up a meeting requires only clicking a button on your Google Workspace toolbar. It’s quite convenient that Google Meet doesn’t require you to download any software to participate in a meeting. The ease of use of Zoom may be the cause of its popularity, though. An account for Zoom is the only true requirement for getting going and hosting a meeting. You can host a meeting or make a later plan once your account is set up. You can use your web browser to attend meetings from a laptop or desktop pc.  Still, for an even more streamlined user experience, installing Zoom Meetings on your desktop and mobile phone is suggested. Similar to the first one, Zoom also requires a meeting-accessible app from a mobile device. ## Security Comparisons For system security, Google Meet does have a solid reputation. The platform provides enrollment in advanced protection programs, two-step authentication, and in-transit and at-rest encryption. A security warning center, security displays, data loss prevention, transparent access, and endpoint control are among the additional security capabilities available to enterprise clients. Zoom, however, for each account, a different authentication technique, such as SAML, OAuth, or password-based authentication, can be individually activated or disabled. Users who sign in using their username and password can add a second layer of security by turning on two-factor authentication (2FA). Zoom integrates with Okta and other enterprise identity management systems, including Shibboleth, Centrify, OneLogin, Microsoft Active Directory, Gluu, and many others. Generally, Zoom can use feature controls to map attributes and provide users with a different group. ## One-On-One Meetings There isn’t much variation between Zoom and Google Meet regarding solitary consultations. Zoom provides 30 hours of one-on-one meeting time, compared to the 24 hours offered by Google Meet. Additionally, Zoom’s free version lets you record meetings, whereas Google Meet requires you to purchase Google Office Standard Business, which costs $12 per access every month.  With the free version of Google Meet, meetings can last up to an hour, while with Zoom, they can last up to 40 minutes. Zoom is recommended if you want to record your solitary consultations. However, Google Meet is a better option if you don’t know since its free edition provides an extra 20 minutes. ## Team Meetings The competition between Zoom and Google Meet for company meetings mostly hinges on the infrastructure and technologies you currently acquire. If you and the rest of your team utilize Google’s services and goods, such as [Gmail accounts](https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/gmail/setting-up-a-gmail-account/1/) and Google Office, it might be a good idea to hold staff meetings using Google Meet. However, Zoom may be more useful if you utilize any other type of technology as it can accommodate more participants and allows up to 1,000 individuals to join. Meanwhile, Google Meet only allows 250 individuals. Choose Zoom if you collaborate with a large enterprise and utilize various programs and services. It’s advised to choose Google Meet if you already utilize Google services and work with a smaller team. ## Distance Learning Zoom wins this one if you’re attempting to select from Google Meet and Zoom for education or training seminars. In fact, Zoom provides breakout areas, recordings of meetings, a virtual whiteboard, and a higher participant capacity even on the cheap plan. The only paid options offered by Google Meet include a whiteboard, meeting recordings, and breakout rooms.  Suppose you’re looking for a platform specifically made for teaching. In that case, Zoom also provides education plans that accommodate at least 20 hosts and a maximum of 149 hosts. Each host can perform infinite sessions with a maximum of 300 guests. ## Interviews When picking a tool for consultations, there isn’t much variation between Zoom and Google Meet. They both provide fundamental features, consisting of call encrypting and 720p HD video support, and modalities of presentation that enable screen sharing with multiple participants. The option to record meetings is maybe the only difference that can assist your team in deciding which platform is appropriate for a consultation. As was already noted, recordings of meetings are accessible with Zoom’s free package and could be quite helpful when evaluating interviews. For individuals who already use Google Workspace software and for short meetings, Google Meet provides a reliable and user-friendly video conferencing platform. ## Bottom line Both tools offer very comparable features and are priced similarly. Zoom is more adaptable because it can interact with 1,000 additional tools and offers more functionality without charge. The great news is that there is no chance of error with these conferencing systems. Ultimately, your decision for your company will probably rely on your daily needs to be as effective as you can. Like this post? Check out more articles on this topic here: - [Top Live Chat Software To Download For Small Businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-live-chat-software-to-download-for-small-businesses/) - [How To Use Google Analytics: A 2022 Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/) - [How Does Discord Make Money? Is It Profitable?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Video Conference Best Practices: The Do’s And Don’ts Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/video-conference-best-practices-the-dos-and-donts/ Published: 2022-08-31 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Productivity ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line People have adapted to using video conferencing ever since working remotely. Video conferences are convenient in terms of saving money for transportation and time commuting to work.  However, there may be difficulties in communicating when video conferencing compared to holding a physical meeting. Following the best practice may eliminate those barriers and let you manage a successful meeting.  There are better and more effective ways when video conferencing, such as improving the video quality and using apps with great video conferencing features and design. Video conferences may be essential in working remotely. So the best thing to do is to optimize the use of video conferencing apps, as well as follow basic etiquette during an online meeting. But while technology makes our lives more convenient, it’s not always operating smoothly. Also, distractions in our homes may prevent us from being able to listen or respond well during a video conference. With that, I’d like to share with you the best practices you can do during a video conference to have better and more effective communication with clients and co-workers. I’ll also share various video conferences and ways to improve video quality.  Lastly, I’ll discuss apps you can use for video conferencing, depending on the number of participants joining the meeting, and which apps you can use on different devices. ## 1\. Always Be On Time Being on time lets you follow and be right on your schedule, especially if you have other tasks and meetings to attend to. Most importantly, other people in the meeting will feel respected as you value their time, whether they’re your co-workers or clients. You can do these steps so you’ll be right on time or anticipate any schedule conflicts that may come your way.  - Join the video conference at least 5-10 minutes before the call time – use this time to test your audio and video equipment. - Set the alarm – especially if it’s difficult for you to wake up early or in case you tend to forget such tasks - [Check your schedule](https://alejandrorioja.com/calendly-review/) before the week starts – you’ll see if there are conflicts or upcoming events you need to prioritize depending on their urgency or reschedule if necessary.  ## 2\. Test Your Equipment, Application, And Connection Your video and audio during the meeting should be working well for you to have a smooth meeting discussion. Before the meeting, you can ask your co-workers to have a test call and check your audio and video settings, lags, and internet connection.  You can also ask your [I.T. department’s assistance](https://uit.stanford.edu/videoconferencing/best-practices) to set up your computer with the apps and tools or to check your internet speed and connection for the meeting. In cases of sudden or scheduled internet disconnection or power outages, you can try heading into the nearest cafes or co-working spaces with strong wifi access.  ## 3\. When To Use Your Headset During the video conference, you must listen carefully and sometimes take down very important points. The noise around you would be hard to eliminate if you’re in a crowded or public space such as a co-working space.  Try to use a noise-canceling headset. Also, most headsets these days have built-in microphones that can reduce the background noise so they can hear you more clearly during a call. Even if there’s not much distracting background noise, using a headset will make you more focused and attentive to the meeting.  You won’t have to ask your client or co-workers to repeat what they’ve just said. This minimizes everyone’s effort and time for such redundancy.  ## 4\. Observe Video Meeting Etiquette  Simply following these [etiquettes](https://31y0y243fgp03d2xj019lz2i-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/BlueJeans_QT_Best_Practices_August-2016.pdf) could minimize distractions and interruptions and respect the participants during the meeting. ### Mute Your Mic When Someone Is Talking It’s been known etiquette to mute your mic whenever someone is talking. This gives the one speaking the proper attention, and everyone in the meeting will get to understand what the speaker is saying. ### Open Your Camera Sometimes, it may be required, or it’s already a norm within your organization to be on-cam during video conferences. Being on-cam may also mean that you’re still with your client or co-workers in the meeting. Nodding, giving reactions, and responding to questions while on-cam makes it easier to communicate through [video meetings](https://www.businesstechweekly.com/productivity/remote-working/video-conference-best-practices-tips/). ### Updating The Participants In The Meeting  Suppose you get disconnected because of connectivity problems or a power outage while doing a presentation. In that case, it’s important to give an update to the participants of the meeting.  Your co-workers or manager may continue your presentation or move on to the next so the meeting flow won’t be interrupted. Giving an update on leaving the conference call earlier would be very much appreciated. In that way, people won’t be left wondering if you just got disconnected or going to rejoin the meeting. ## 5\. Put A Professional Video Background Personal and work life have been mixed up whenever working remotely. Separating private space from workspace would help you which to focus at the moment.  By simply putting on a professional video background, you can avoid any distractions to your audience, especially if you’re the one speaking or making a presentation. ## 6\. Dress Professionally Even though you’re just at home, within working hours, especially in a virtual meeting, you’ll be required to dress professionally. It adds to the element that you’re in work mode instead of wearing pajamas or too casual style, which can make you feel relaxed and reduce your productivity.  A clean and business casual style would be alright as long as you’re  ## 7\. Check On The Other Participants Check whether the participants are having technical difficulties on their end, are on the same page, or can keep up with the pace during the meeting. You can ask them or direct message them if they have any concerns. The participant needs to be comfortable to give more attention to the meeting and communicate clearly and effectively with other participants. ## 8\. Pay Attention To The Meeting Discussion You may not have technical or connectivity problems, but not paying attention to the discussion would be hard for you to raise questions or respond to inquiries later.  Remember that meetings are held to address concerns regarding projects, proposals, and events. Maximize the time and opportunity to discuss or resolve it with your team or client. ## Types of Video Conferencing We respond differently depending on who you’re going to have a meeting with. Knowing the video conference you’re in will help you know what to manage and expect during the call.  ### One-On-One Conversations One-on-one conversations through video calls are more intimate and require less effort to manage the participants involved. This is mostly used for job interviews and for managers to get updates on their employees individually.  Using this type of video conferencing, nonverbal expressions, posture, and tone of voice are more observed, which can help you to evaluate the interviewee’s interest and competence for the job. ### Team Meetings Weekly or monthly team meetings will help you manage and get updates on the projects’ tasks. This can be helpful, especially with companies that hire remote employees, such as outsourced ones. ### Customer Or Client Meetings Since you’re [video conferencing with a client](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-live-chat-software-to-download-for-small-businesses/), learn to test your presentations when screen-sharing or practice the flow of how you would present by recording your test call. Review the recording and see which area needs to be improved to create better interaction and engagement with the client. ### Large Meetings If holding a meeting in an auditorium due to a large number of people won’t be possible, a video conference can be convenient in terms of saving time and the venue. It’s best to designate a team to conduct and manage the online meeting, such as who will share the screen, host, and admit the participants.   ## Improve Your Video Quality When Conferencing A strong and stable internet connection can make your video and audio quality clearer. With that, you can connect your computer via a wired Ethernet jack to have a stronger and [faster internet connection](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/). ## Best Video Conference Applications These video conference applications are considered the best because of their great user interface and design, making them easy to navigate. ### Zoom The Zoom application is popular and is particularly made for video conferencing, as seen in its feature and design. It has various plans, such as business size, which can accommodate unlimited video meetings for many people, especially if you’re going to hold a large meeting. Other Zoom features include polls and an interactive whiteboard for collaborating ideas. ### Skype For Business Skype can accommodate up to 250 people in a video conference. But it’s better to use it for one-on-one conversations such as interviews or team meetings of up to 10 people. It’s also easy to navigate on your computer, phone, and tablet. ### Slack Slack is more known as a messaging tool. But its video conferencing features are easier to navigate if your company is already using the app.  Slack can be organized according to different group chats called channels. You can use Slack by downloading an app or signing or logging in through a web browser. ## Bottom line Some issues with video conferencing may be out of our control, but there are many ways to resolve such limitations.  Following these best practices will keep you on track and manage the video conference well. Eliminating or just reducing distractions and technical issues creates so much difference within the meeting, letting the participants focus more on the task.  We no longer need physical resources for meetings; we can do them through video conferences, saving time and effort while communicating effectively. Want to know more about video conferencing applications and other productivity tools? Check any of these posts! - [Your Guide To Using Discord As A Marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-marketers-guide-to-using-discord/) - [16 Best Productivity Tools of 2022: Features and Benefits](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) - [Calendly Review: Looking Into The Benefits And Features](https://alejandrorioja.com/?s=video+conference) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Resolve Facebook Marketplace Not Working Issue? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-resolve-facebook-marketplace-not-working-issue/ Published: 2022-08-24 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: Facebook Marketplace is the platform you can use to buy and sell items, especially in your local area. Facebook Messenger has made it easier to get in touch with your prospective buyer through direct messaging to provide more product details and negotiate with the offer. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Facebook Marketplace is the platform you can use to buy and sell items, especially in your local area. Facebook Messenger has made it easier to get in touch with your prospective buyer through direct messaging to provide more product details and negotiate with the offer. But the Marketplace is not always running smoothly. Bugs, compatibility, restrictions, and an internet connection can affect your Marketplace work.  To resolve this issue, check the possible causes within your account and on your app or desktop web browser. Facebook Marketplace is one of the [platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-only-4-reasons-your-e-commerce-site-needs-a-blog/) that started in October 2016. The Marketplace is where users can consume social media content and simultaneously explore lists of local items in different categories.  A Facebook user can sell new or pre-loved [products](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-are-deadstock-products-and-how-to-avoid-them/) online using Marketplace by uploading product images and adding in product names, descriptions, and prices. The buyer browses and [chooses the items and directs messages](https://alejandrorioja.com/e-commerce-marketing-guide-for-2022/) to the seller via Facebook Messenger. From there, they can talk more about the product and the offer. Marketplace technical issues are no joke since they may affect your business or interrupt customer response and service. But luckily, I got some things to try if your platform isn’t working.  These tips can help with everything from account restrictions, and browser issues to internet connection.  ## Why Facebook Marketplace May Not Be Working There are many causes why your Marketplace isn’t loading or working. Let’s try to look at each of them so you’d know where to fix the issue. ### Age Restriction Facebook users below 18 are restricted from getting access to the Marketplace. This is to prevent children from financial scams or getting involved in fraudulent activities. ### Slow Internet Connection Marketplace’s product listing may take too long to appear, or its entire page won’t load because of a slow internet connection. You can Google the “Internet speed test,” where you can check your internet’s current speed. If your internet connection is slow, then that might be the cause why your Marketplace seems not to be working. Usually, other sites also won’t load easily with this kind of issue.  Try contacting your internet provider to help you with connectivity and internet speed issues.  ### New Facebook Account If you just recently created a Facebook profile, chances are you won’t be able to use the Marketplace yet. But they lift this restriction after 72 hours, so all you need to do is wait. There are cases where new Facebook accounts are created for spamming purposes, which is why commenting or reacting on posts, groups, and pages are also restricted. ### Banned User Account The Marketplace has strictly implemented community policies, and violating these would let them take away your access to it. Facebook will send an email to you regarding the violation.  It should also be stated how long your restriction will last. To prevent yourself from being banned from the Marketplace, try to learn and ensure you follow the established community policy. Repeated violations may place you on a lifetime ban on the Marketplace. ### Location Your location might be affecting your access to the Marketplace. With that, you can access the Marketplace [currently available in the following countries](https://m.facebook.com/marketplace/directory/).  There are still other causes why your Facebook Marketplace isn’t working. You can try to fix them in the following ways. ## 1\. Open Facebook Marketplace In Another Browser Your Facebook Marketplace may be incompatible with the current browser you’re using. Try the browsers where you can load the Marketplace quickly and smoothly.  You can use the following browsers compatible with loading the Marketplace.  1. Google Chrome 2. Mozilla Firefox 3. Safari 4. Opera 5. Microsoft Edge You can install these browsers by following the steps below: 1. Download then install the browser 2. After the installation is complete, open the browser 3. Sign in to Facebook and go to Marketplace ## 2\. Updating or Reinstall Facebook App On your Facebook App, try updating it since there might be bugs that have affected your Marketplace to load. Updating or reinstalling the app will provide you with an updated version that has already fixed the bugs from the previous versions.  The updated Facebook app has also already enhanced its performance for a better user experience. In updating the Facebook app, follow the steps below: 1. Go to Google Play Store or App Store 2. Search for the Facebook app 3. Tap on the ‘Update’ button 4. Then after the update has been downloaded, you can open this new version of the app and check the Marketplace to see if it’s working now. For reinstalling the Facebook app, go through the following steps: 1. Delete first the Facebook app on your phone 2. Then, go to Google Play Store or App Store to install them again  3. After installing, open the app and go to the Marketplace to see if the problem has been fixed ## 3\. Clear Cache You can clear the cache on your Facebook App and see if there will be any changes, so you won’t have to make an update or reinstall. Bugs and glitches may occur because of these cache or temporary data. So you can try clearing up the cache within your browser or app to prevent the bugs that may interfere with loading the Marketplace.  On your mobile phone, follow these simple steps: 1. Go to Settings 2. Then look for the Facebook app and tap on it 3. You can see storage and cache and then tap on the ‘Clear cache button On your desktop’s browser, particularly Google Chrome, follow the steps below: 1. Open Google Chrome and click on the 3 vertical dots in the browser on the top right corner, which is also beside your Google account’s profile picture. 2. Then under it, click on More Tools and then click on Clear Browsing Data. 3. You can choose the time range of clearing the browsing data between the Last hour or All time. 4. Select the following where you want to clear your browsing data 5. Then click clear data. ## 4\. Check Language Settings The language set in your Facebook account may also be related to your region or location, which may not have access to Marketplace. To have access to Marketplace, you can change your language on Facebook: 1. Click your profile icon on the top right corner 2. Go to Settings and Privacy and click on Settings 3. On the left pane, go to the Language and Region tab 4. Under the Language and Regions Settings, click the Edit button next to Facebook Language 5. Then a drop-down menu will appear and select supported languages, where Marketplace is available to load 6. Once you’ve chosen the supported language, click on the Save changes button ## 5\. Turn Off Third-Party Extensions Third-party extensions such as add-ons or plugins may interrupt Facebook operations. Some malicious extensions can copy or modify your account information, enabling Facebook to detect unusual behavior in your account and limit access. To prevent access restrictions from happening, you can do the following steps to your web browser: 1. Go to Google Chrome, go to the top right corner, and click the 3 vertical dots. 2. Then on the list, click on More tools. 3. Under More tools, click on Extensions. 4. Turn the toggle off or remove the malicious or unnecessary third-party extensions, then check if there are any changes in loading Marketplace. ## 6\. Request For Marketplace Access You may have received the email for violating community policies and have been restricted from using Marketplace. Although if you think you didn’t violate any of the policies, you can send a request to get your Marketplace access back.  You can see a message on the Marketplace tab saying, ‘You Can’t Use Marketplace Right Now.’ Under it, click the Request Review button, then fill out the required form. ## What You Can Sell On Marketplace Based on [Facebook’s Community Standards](https://www.facebook.com/policies_center/commerce/), these are the prohibited contents in their Marketplace. 1. Adult products 2. Alcohol 3. Body parts and fluids 4. Documents, currency, and financial instruments 5. Bingo, poker, casino, fantasy sports, and sweepstakes 6. Hazardous goods and materials 7. Animals and animal products 8. Medical and healthcare products 9. Prescription drugs 10. Services 11. Tobacco products 12. Ammunition and explosives 13. Used cosmetics ## Bottom line The Marketplace has limited access to countries and users’ age. It can also be affected by bugs, cache, third-party extensions, and slow connection.  Knowing the causes of the problem will help you to regain access to the Marketplace.  Make sure to follow the community policies set by Facebook, or you’d get a restriction, which may take a while to get back in the Marketplace. You can also try to change your language and location so you won’t have restricted access, especially if it’s unavailable in your area.  Now that the Marketplace is available to millions of users, it’s never been easier than this before. You can drive sales with Marketplace, so it’s a good way to resolve the issue when it’s not working immediately through the following guide. Want to know more about e-commerce platforms? Check any of these posts! - [How Does Facebook Make Money? 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [The Best E-Commerce Platforms in 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) - [How To Set Up Your Ecommerce Business From Scratch: (Niche, Audience Selection, and Growth)](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top 9 Mangastream Alternatives You Should Know Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/mangastream-alternatives/ Published: 2022-08-24 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Based on its demographics, the manga site mostly has an audience aged 25-34 (30.01%), where 63.48% were male and 36.52% were female. The United States (28.71%) has brought the highest traffic volume to the site. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Mangastream offers many features that make the reading and browsing experience smooth and easy, which the users enjoy. The site may not operate anymore, but many manga streaming platforms can be your alternative.  But there’s also something about Mangastream that made its users stick and brought more new users throughout the years. Their features, such as web design, user interface, and visual quality of the manga contents, can be noted in how they operate consistently. Mangastream is one of those sites where you can read manga for free. It has manga of different genres under the categories such as comedy, horror, drama, sci-fi, a slice of life, shounen, romance, action, adult, adventure, and more.  Based on its [demographics](https://www.similarweb.com/website/mangastream.com/#demographics), the manga site mostly has an audience aged 25-34 (30.01%), where 63.48% were male and 36.52% were female. The United States (28.71%) has [brought the highest traffic volume](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/) to the site. In case you didn’t know, Mangastream has stopped its operations since September 2020. Don’t worry because I’ll share some alternative manga streaming sites with similar features and interface as Mangastream. But first, let’s find out why Mangastream has been one of the most preferred manga sites for many years. ## Why has Mangastream gained so much popularity? [Mangastream](http://mangastream.mobi/), like any other site that gives free access to manga, had become mainstream and had become one of the established manga sites worldwide. But its web design and user experience have gotten them the advantage over other sites. ### Smooth and Interactive User Interface Users enjoy an efficient layout, making it easy to search, filter, and browse manga using the search bar. The site has also arranged the manga based on their genres to navigate the different contents easily. ### High-Quality Manga Print A manga is composed of visual content, so it’s necessary to make the manga print high-quality, which the site consistently delivers to its users. The manga can also be downloaded, adding to the users’ great reading experience. ### Few Interruptions In addition to a great user experience, the site has managed to put out a few ads or pop-ups that eliminate many distractions and interruptions to your reading time.  ### Translated in Several Languages The mangas are more accessible to many users since it’s been translated into French, English, Italian, and other languages. ### Releases Latest Content Users keep coming back for more, especially for ongoing series where you wait for its next chapter. Mangastream has been regularly updating to release the latest content. ## Updates On Mangastream Despite Mangastream’s popularity, the site went offline, as mentioned earlier, back in September 2020. It has also removed its tweets on its official Twitter account. Like Mangastream, most manga streaming platforms aren’t asking the author’s permission to upload any of their works, which is illegal. This may have been one of the main reasons the site has been shut down.  But according to other [sources](https://www.tme.net/blog/mangastream/#Why_MangaStream_goes_Down), Mangastream did not clarify why it had shut the site down.  ## 1\. MangaDex [MangaDex](https://mangadex.org/) has a lot to offer besides the original version of the manga. It also highlights other versions of the manga, such as: - Colored version - Official crossovers - Fanfiction with their alternate endings that users can create Users worldwide can enjoy the mangas since they’re translated into 20 languages, including Italian, French, Spanish, and German. The site has a community with smaller groups for specific categories of mangas the users can join in. For MangaDex to continue its operations, it asks for support from its users through Bitcoin donations. ## 2\. Mangapark [Mangapark](https://mangapark.net/) has already made a huge fan base because of its updated content and has the option for loading 10 images per chapter. This feature is very convenient if you don’t like loading every chapter page. Since it’s consistent with being straightforward and focused on reading the manga right away, it doesn’t provide any summaries or story plots. But it will give you information such as the rating, genre, reading and following counts, and whether the manga has ongoing chapters or not. You also don’t have to worry about interruptions since the site has no pop-ups, which is an added delight to your reading experience. ## 3\. MangaFox [MangaFox](https://fanfox.net/) is operated by fanfox.net, which should not be confused with the fake MangaFox site (Mangafox.online). However, other MangaFox websites are fake and have been on the top ranks on Google’s [search results page](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/).  The original MangaFox site has an orange theme with a sleek look. It’s also very user-friendly with a feature of adaptive zoom for a better reading experience. You can read manga on your phone using MangFox’s mobile app available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. ## 4\. Ten Manga [Ten Manga](http://web.tenmanga.com/) is very organized with its tailored home page featuring manga series on: - Latest updates - Newly-released - Completed series - Feature section of various manga series The homepage also features the rankings for most viewed mangas daily, weekly, and monthly. You can see the main tab of the site, the Surprise tab, which will give a random top manga suggestion. It’s a convenient feature, especially if you can’t decide for hours which manga you will read. But there are thousands of manga series to browse, and this feature can help you to come across different mangas and see where the Surprise tab takes you. ## 5\. MangaOwl [MangaOwl](https://mangaowl.to/manga) has a wide selection of genres and a very organized homepage like Ten Manga. It has been tailored from what’s popular on that day, most viewed, to the latest manga series updates. Their star ratings and view counts are helpful for a quick review and overview of the manga series. Also, they included a feature called Top Night Owls that shows the user who’s reading the manga for most hours. ## 6\. Manganelo [Manganelo’s](https://manganelo.com/) user interface is great since everything on its homepage is organized and easy to navigate. Going through the [pages loads fast and smoothly](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/), especially when you go to the manga’s page with its overview, including the information on the following: - Author - Status: ongoing or completed - Last date updated - View counts - Rating - Plot description The manga’s chapters also run smoothly, have very few ads, and have high-resolution content, which is why you’d likely stick around and use what the site offers. You can see on its website that it has changed its name from ‘Manganelo’ to ‘Manganato,’ so you won’t be confused and might think you’re on the wrong site. ## 7\. Kissmanga [Kissmanga](https://kissmanga.com/) has a huge manga collection of over 100,000 yet still contains high-quality scans. The site will ensure you’d get the official latest release of the chapter of the manga series so you won’t miss out on the latest happenings. Plus, you can get notifications from the latest update and the manga list for the new chapters released from the one you’ve been reading. ## 8\. MangaReader [MangaReader](https://mangareader.to) has made its website similar to the user interface of Mangastream with its filter feature on its search box. The site makes navigating easier since users already know how Mangastream works. Additionally, the site has a ‘Suprise Me’ tab for random suggestions of manga series. Although it may have its downsides, such as: - Not user-friendly on mobile or tablet devices - Ads take up too much space ## 9\. MangaTown [MangaTown](https://www.mangatown.com/) won’t require you to sign up or register for manga access. It has a huge collection of manga that dates back to 1999. The site has almost all the categories organized on its homepage with its Hot Manga Release, Featured Manga Release, and New Manga Release tabs.  Webtoons and Reverse Harem are rarely available here. There’s also no forum but a comment section where the manga readers discuss their opinions and exchange ideas. ## Bottom line There are many alternatives to Mangastream. You can check them out and see what suits your preferences when reading manga online. The sites almost have similar features and tailored homepages to make their user interface smooth for its users. These are the basic features users would go for to get a good reading and browsing experience. Other manga sites give alternate endings to the manga series, have an adaptive zoom feature and mobile app, or have a random manga suggesting button. You’ll mostly go to sites depending on what feature you’re most likely to use. Want to know more about streaming service websites and what goes through website design? Check any of these posts! - [Use Anticipatory Design to Wow Your Customers](https://flux.la/anticipatory-design/) - [How to Get More Views on Youtube Youtube SEO tricks for 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) - [How To Build Your Brand Through Great Web Design](https://flux.la/how-to-build-your-brand-through-great-web-design/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## GoDaddy Email Login – 3 Methods You Need To Know Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-email-login-3-methods-you-need-to-know/ Published: 2022-08-22 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: You can, but are not obligated to, use an Amazon, Facebook, or Google account to access your account in GoDaddy. It’s not required if you don’t want to. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The Z Library is a fantastic learning source that wants to entertain the reader with their work. It is the best way to read books and articles online for free. You can sign up to attend the understanding experience on stage. It is a very successful strategy for enhancing learning capacities and gathering academic data for study and project research initiatives. Therefore, you may improve your learning abilities and obtain study materials with Z Library. Making a website for my company became an important step in developing its online presence. [The website builder offered by GoDaddy](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/) is a cloud-based editing and publishing platform that enables non-technical users like me to create responsive websites without any prior experience. Like me, people with original ideas have a better chance of succeeding online because of GoDaddy, the world’s largest and most reputable domain registrar. With their domain search engine and name generator, you can find the ideal internet address for your company, follow the methods below and start [optimizing your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/). ## Method 1: GoDaddy Website It is the method that everyone will find the least difficult. You may get GoDaddy Email Login using their website. Performing that action may be broken down into a series of simple stages outlined below. ### Steps: 1. Get your web browser ready, then go to the GoDaddy web page. When you’ve finished filling in the fields, hit “Enter” to be sent to the “Godaddy Account Login Website.” 2. When you reach the sign-in screen, you must enter your Username and Secure it for your GoDaddy account into the corresponding text boxes. 3. After signing into your GoDaddy account, you will be given a choice to choose a button that will remain logged in on your device. Doing so will maintain your sign-in status on your device. 4. Finalize the process by selecting “Sign in.” You may then access your GoDaddy information with the credentials you just created. When everything is set up as it needs to be, you may log into the service using your regular GoDaddy login information. However, it’s important to know that there’s another option besides this one! Do you find yourself wondering the same thing? You can, but are not obligated to, use an Amazon, Facebook, or Google account to access your account in GoDaddy. It’s not required if you don’t want to. To do this, go to the “GoDaddy Sign-in Page” and pick one of the three options just below the sign-in box. Amazon, Facebook, and Google are some of the other options out there. You’re probably aware that GoDaddy includes workplace webmail as a service. Still, just in case you aren’t, you can access a Webmail account through the manufacturer’s website of your GoDaddy account. You can also consider purchasing an email address that relates to your corporation to show up far more professional. ## Method 2: 365 Microsoft Office GoDaddy now integrates with Microsoft Office, letting users access their subscriptions from within the Office 365 apps on their own devices.  If you are considering reaching your GoDaddy subscription using Microsoft Office 365, you should read the steps below since they will walk you through the process. ### Steps: 1. Enter the GoDaddy link into the address bar of your web browser. You will be sent straight to the “GoDaddy Microsoft Office 365 Site’ when you click on the link. 2. Put the “Email” and “Password” you use to log in to GoDaddy into the appropriate areas on the login page. 3. In the “Username” and “Password” text boxes, type the information you supplied when registering for an account on GoDaddy. 4. Once more, you need to choose the button that will keep you logged in on your device if you wish to make use of it. 5. Simply entering “Sign in” brings you to the main screen of your GoDaddy account.  You may log in to your GoDaddy account using Microsoft Office 365 and the other choices stated above. GoDaddy and Microsoft collaborate to offer this service to their customers. It is conceivable for this to happen. If you want to access your GoDaddy account differently, then the information provided in the following paragraphs will be useful to you. ## Method 3: GoDaddy Workspace Email  One of the services that GoDaddy provides is workplace webmail, which is available to all organizations. By having an email address that corresponds to their linked company’s name, businesses are given the appearance of being more professional and sophisticated thanks to this function. You may get an email address that corresponds to your company name by opening a Webmail account and purchasing one from the Account Product Page of your GoDaddy account. Usually, customers will select this alternative when they begin registering on GoDaddy. But just in case you haven’t activated this option yet, the tutorial below will walk you through the process, so you may do it whenever you like. ### Steps: 1. Use the browser of your choice and navigate to GoDaddy Webmail Login Page. 2. The “GoDaddy email login” must be entered on the GoDaddy Sign-in Page in the text fields corresponding to those credentials. 3. If you wish to be able to access it at any time without providing any related data, mark the checkbox linked with it. One more time, please keep in mind that it is entirely up to you whether or not you choose to take advantage of this opportunity. 4. Access your GoDaddy Workspace Webmail Account by selecting the “Sign in” option, which is now available. ## How to Change the Password of your GoDaddy Account It would help if you made it a practice to change the password for your GoDaddy account at intervals of 30, 60, or 90 days. This way, you can be certain that something similar will not happen to you in the future.  However, if you have very few ideas about how you might be able to complete this operation, there is no need for you to worry. The steps below will lead you through the procedure for changing the password for your GoDaddy accounts. ### Steps: 1. Put “[https://sso.godaddy.com/account/reset](https://sso.godaddy.com/account/reset)” into your browser’s address bar to access GoDaddy’s “Reset Password” The next step is to hit the “Enter” key. 2. To change your GoDaddy password, visit that page and input the “Username” associated with your account when required. 3. Once you’ve filled out all the fields and provided the information needed, click “Continue” to proceed with changing your password. 4. Here, you’ll be presented with a “Security” completion, which is mandatory. 5. 5\. After completing the steps above, click “Submit,” GoDaddy will send an email with a reset password link. 6. 6\. When you receive the email, obey the instructions to reset your password by visiting the link. Then, enter a new “Password” for your GoDaddy account and proceed on the on-screen directions to complete the transaction. ## To Sum Up! That brings everything to a close! You can easily log in to your GoDaddy account beginning right now with the assistance of this tutorial. Additionally, you should now have the ability to reset and change the password of your account whenever it is necessary to do so.  If you found this article helpful, check out my other post here. - [6 Best Email Marketing Services for Small Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/6-best-email-marketing-services-for-small-business/) - [Your Guide To Starting An Online Store This 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/your-guide-to-starting-an-online-store-this-2022/) - [What Are Deadstock Products And How To Avoid Them?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-are-deadstock-products-and-how-to-avoid-them/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A couple of 2026 updates to the specific advice in this post: - **HTTPS / connection errors** in 2026 browsers: Chrome 130+ and Firefox 130+ both default to HTTPS-only mode, so "your connection is not private" errors are more common — usually a Let's Encrypt cert misconfig or an expired root. Fix is the same as in the post; the visible UI differs. - **GoDaddy email**: the legacy Workspace Email product was migrated to Microsoft 365 for most accounts during 2024–25. If the post references the old IMAP settings, double-check against the M365 endpoints (`outlook.office365.com`). - **Z-Library** continued operating from rotating mirrors and the Anna's Archive umbrella through 2024–26 despite ongoing DOJ enforcement. The legal landscape is unresolved. - **Website source code** still inspected the same way — DevTools, View Source, and Wappalyzer for stack identification. Wappalyzer added AI-stack detection in 2025 (LangChain, LlamaIndex, etc.). --- ## What Is Z Library? Review Of Features And Membership Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/review-of-z-library/ Published: 2022-08-22 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Reviews ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The Z Library is a fantastic learning source that wants to entertain the reader with their work. It is the best way to read books and articles online for free. You can sign up to attend the understanding experience on stage. It is a very successful strategy for enhancing learning capacities and gathering academic data for study and project research initiatives. Therefore, you may improve your learning abilities and obtain study materials with Z Library. One of the most well-liked online libraries among book enthusiasts is ZLibrary. It is a mobile application that enables online book reading. A lot of people download books to their devices in addition to reading them online.  Although you can read some books online, download them to your device, and read them there, that is not ZLibrary’s main goal. Users of ZLibrary have access to high-quality literature as well as the chance to interact with people who have similar interests and pastimes. Generally, I could sort and filter the books using the app based on your preferences. I can receive suggestions depending on your reading tastes. Additionally, I was able to view the books my friends had read. In this article, I will review Z Library to help you decide whether or not it is for you. ## What is Z Library? [Z-Library](https://z-lib.org/) is a Library Genesis mirror initiative that provides file-sharing access to books, academic texts, and scholarly journal articles. Some of its books are directly uploaded to its website by individuals, while the majority are from Library Genesis. Formerly known as BookFinder, Z Library is now more commonly abbreviated as z-lib. The Z Library includes various copies of books and scholarly articles that have been pirated. Additionally, the world’s largest free research article database and online free eBook library are both found at Z Library. Its library of general interest books, scholarly books, research papers, journal articles, and even [blogs](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-types-of-blogs-are-most-popular/) is very large. The initiative promises to be “the world’s largest ebook library” and “the world’s largest scientific articles repository,” according to its page for scholarly publications. Z-library promotes itself as a non-profit organization with a model based on donations. ## Is Z Library legal? Copyright laws make it illegal to use shadow libraries. As a result, Z-Library is an unlicensed website. Despite having the best of intentions, they disseminate illegal works. Internet databases known as “shadow libraries” act as a repository for works that aren’t easily accessible elsewhere. They were largely created for academic research papers, which are becoming more expensive and challenging to acquire, like Sci-Hub. However, it’s secure to download books from the Z library. While some reservations about obtaining books with copyright protection through Z Library, users do not violate any laws. It is the website’s responsibility to address any issues if any. Readers are not subject to any penalties or legal issues. ## Features of Z Library It’s an excellent idea to use an online library because it is handy. You won’t need to venture outside and mingle with people. Online libraries are excellent for finding information that is challenging to hunt for online. Students should use online libraries as much as possible to help finish their schoolwork. Using an online library instead of paying for pricey books to read is a great way to save money. Additionally, it uses less paper and provides students more time to learn. 1. Simple navigation makes it simple to conduct a title- and author-only search. 2. You can locate a substantial collection of books and articles covering many topics, including but not limited to sciences, language, clothing, economics, fantasy, geology, technology, etc. 3. The website advocates for granting free access to everyone. 4. It has a substantial collection of pertinent books and articles appropriate for people of all ages. 5. Using and navigating the website is quite easy. 6. The website has books in multiple languages. With only one click, books in numerous languages are available. 7. You can [conduct a category-based search](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) on the platform as well. Consequently, you can locate books in your preferred genre. 8. A book can be searched by text, line, or phrase. 9. Also, you receive recommendations for books or articles that are now fashionable and well-liked worldwide. ### Membership Plans Offered At Z Library, three different membership options are available: - **Guest Member Plan:** If you choose the guest plan, you are permitted to download 5 books each day. - **Basic Member Plan:** As a basic member, you can download 10 books per day. - **Premium Member Plan:** In addition to several extra features, premium subscribers receive limitless free downloads. ## Z Library: A Thorough Review Today, thousands of online libraries allow customers to download their software. What sets Z Library apart from the competition? ### 1\. A Vast Collection of Archives Millions of e-books are available on Z Library’s website. On this website, you may find e-books from all around the world. You won’t find short stories, news items, magazine articles, [marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/), poetry, or other publications in other online libraries. ### 2\. Free Digital Content Access You are free to read the materials you like. It is also available for download to your smartphone. ### 3\. It’s Not Required that you Open an Account Users of Z Library are not required to register for an account or divulge any personal data. Any device that you own can be used to access the website. Because the website is free, premium accounts don’t exist. ### 4\. Versatile Z Library is a fantastic choice if you enjoy reading but don’t want to carry large volumes around or pay a lot for a physical book. On your e-reader, you can read and download e-books thanks to it. Additionally, you can read them by connecting your phone to your computer. ### 5\. Includes Options for Filters and Sorting You can select books that fit your choices by using the filters. Additionally, you can use the sorting options to look for books based on different criteria, such as author, type, format, etc. ### 6\. Includes a Search Bar You can look for the information you’re looking for by typing a term into the [search field](https://alejandrorioja.com/app-store-optimization-starter-a-beginners-guide/). Other websites do not have it, yet it is useful. It facilitates and expedites the process of searching for something. ### 7\. Offers Friendly Customer Service Although there is no application for this online library, you can still reach them using the contact form on their homepage. You can input your issues and share the email address you’d like the developers to respond to. ## Advantages of Z Library This library gives various kinds of books to read per the needs of the people. Many seek and read the books they desire at this library. Here are some advantages of Z Library: ### Read in the Comfort of your Home People don’t prefer to visit bookstores, as is well known, because of their hectic lives. They always like making purchases or shopping in current ways. It is where the digital platform may assist users in obtaining any book. All folks can purchase these books and articles online while seated wherever. Not even leaving your home or place of business is necessary. ### Spend No More Not just the Z Library, but many more libraries provide convenience to their readers. This digital platform provides all book types for free. You don’t need to pay anything to read the books. Without paying a dime, you can install any of the books. It can be useful for book enthusiasts who lack the resources to purchase such expensive books.  ### Suitable for All Devices This digital library can be used on any device and is therefore unrestricted. It is not necessary to utilize it with specific gadgets. The most practical method to use this library is on your phone, which is also an option.  Additionally, it allows you to read books on your laptop or PC. Once you access the world’s largest digital library, you’ll never leave empty-handed again. As long as you need it, you’ll always be able to find something amusing and useful. ## Bottom line Some people are addicted to reading books, which helps them learn more. Such individuals are constantly looking for new books and articles to read. Older customs called for reading any book from a physical library. But today’s world is more advanced, and current methods are employed. Everything is done using modern methods.  Similar to this, there are now other ways to obtain books. These days, people employ digital tools like Z Library. It is one of the biggest digital libraries in today’s technology age. Did you find this article interesting? Check out my other posts here. - [👻 How to Get More Snapchat Followers and Make Money 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) - [Top 14 Tips For Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) - [How To Keep Your Facebook Group Active?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-keep-your-facebook-group-active/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A couple of 2026 updates to the specific advice in this post: - **HTTPS / connection errors** in 2026 browsers: Chrome 130+ and Firefox 130+ both default to HTTPS-only mode, so "your connection is not private" errors are more common — usually a Let's Encrypt cert misconfig or an expired root. Fix is the same as in the post; the visible UI differs. - **GoDaddy email**: the legacy Workspace Email product was migrated to Microsoft 365 for most accounts during 2024–25. If the post references the old IMAP settings, double-check against the M365 endpoints (`outlook.office365.com`). - **Z-Library** continued operating from rotating mirrors and the Anna's Archive umbrella through 2024–26 despite ongoing DOJ enforcement. The legal landscape is unresolved. - **Website source code** still inspected the same way — DevTools, View Source, and Wappalyzer for stack identification. Wappalyzer added AI-stack detection in 2025 (LangChain, LlamaIndex, etc.). --- ## Snapchat Keeps Crashing? Here Is How To Fix It Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/snapchat-keeps-crashing-here-is-how-to-fix-it/ Published: 2022-08-10 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: When your Snapchat crashes, it can be due to several reasons, and there are various ways you can fix it. Ultimately, these easy solutions are the best ways you can ensure your Snapchat becomes up and running in no time. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Snapchat has been a dependable social media platform for people who love exchanging fun and enhanced selfies with friends and loved ones. However, like any other application, it can crash and pick up unwanted glitches, causing it to malfunction.  When your Snapchat crashes, it can be due to several reasons, and there are various ways you can fix it. Ultimately, these easy solutions are the best ways you can ensure your Snapchat becomes up and running in no time. One of the things I don’t enjoy happening is when I’m enjoying exchanging selfies with filters with my friends on Snapchat, and suddenly it stops and closes on its own. It’s inconvenient, a hassle, and destroys my excitement over fun conversations by exchanging selfies with my loved ones.  Luckily, I have looked for ways how we can try fixing Snapchat when it crashes, and I will be sharing them with you. If you’re a Snapchat user, chances are you’ve had trouble logging in, or the app has crashed on you. Don’t worry because you’re not alone! Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you get back to snapping! ## Why Snapchat Keeps Crashing Snapchat crashing has been a common system error since it was launched. It’s an application malfunction that always annoys the users when it happens. The most famous reasons why an alert that reads, “Unfortunately, Snapchat has stopped working” frequently pops out when using Snapchat are the following:  ### Downtime of Snapchat Server  A possible cause of Snapchat crashing is failing to establish a secure connection between the application and the server, causing downtime. When this happens, Snapchat’s cache can get damaged, leading you to encounter multiple times of crashing and stopping on its own.  ### Unstable Internet Connection A simple flaw like having a bad or unstable internet connection can also cause Snapchat to consistently stop working and crash, especially since this application is purely internet-based.  ### Unauthorized Third-Party Apps on Snapchat You will more likely crash if you have unauthorized third-party apps and plugins, including Snapchat++, Phantom, SCOthman, Peekaboo, Emulator, and Snap Tools, which will more likely crash.  ### Using VPN Using VPN to connect and use Snapchat can also prevent you from using the application to its full potential, often causing malfunctioning, instability, and crashing.  ## Force Quitting Snapchat and Reopening It One of the main reasons why your [Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) crashes is because of data corruption. This happens when a substantial amount of Snapchat’s data gets corrupted, affecting the entire application’s stable functioning. When this happens, an easy fix you can do is force quit Snapchat and reopen it.  ### Using IOS  If you are using an iPhone for your Snapchat, follow the steps below to force quit the app.  1. Double-click your Home button or unlock your home screen and swipe up and hold. 2. You will see your recent applications panel, where you can swipe Snapchat up to remove it.  3. Reopen your Snapchat to check if it’s working properly.  ### Using Android  Check out the following steps if you are an Android user.  1. Go to Settings, and look for the Applications heading. Select that.  2. Look for Snapchat, and click on it.  3. Click the “Force Quit” button.  4. Reopen Your Snapchat.  ## Uninstalling and Reinstalling The App There are times when [Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) keeps on crashing because of minor glitches and errors. These can easily be solved when you try to uninstall and reinstall the application, clearing unwanted data or cache from the application. Whether you’re an [iOS](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kateoflahertyuk/2022/06/21/ios-16-apple-just-solved-the-most-annoying-thing-about-the-internet/) or Android user, the process of uninstalling the application is similar.  Follow the steps below: 1. Unlock your device.  2. Go to the page where Snapchat is.  3. Long press the application’s logo.   4. If you are an Android user, you will see three options above it. Click Uninstall.  5. iOS users will see a cross mark above it. Select Uninstall.  ## Clear Snapchat’s Cache When you have been using Snapchat for quite a while, it tends to store a big amount of data in the application’s cache. This can normally cause Snapchat to overload, eventually crashing and stopping. When this happens, you must restart the application to help it refresh. Here is what you can do.  1. Open your Snapchat application.  2. Click your profile icon on the top left-hand corner of the screen.  3. Click on the settings logo in the top right-hand corner.  4. Look for the “Clear Cache” option in your settings menu.  5. You can either select clear all or select certain features you want to delete.  6. After choosing your preference, press Confirm.  7. Snapchat will likely work better without crashing and stopping unexpectedly.  ## Check For Snapchat Updates Snapchat can also frequently crash when it’s an old version that has been running for a long time. You can always go to Google Play for [Android users](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johanmoreno/2021/11/28/android-users-rejoice-imessage-tapbacks-are-rolling-out-on-google-messages/?sh=31c032ca66b5) and the App Store for iOS users to check for recent application updates.  You will know whether a new update is available when you see the “Update” button on both Google Play and App Store. Additionally, click the “Update” button, wait for it to finish, and relaunch your Snapchat.  ## Restart Your Mobile Device Restarting your device can also work, especially when the application has a bug that causes it to malfunction. Doing this is an instant aid for any errors or glitches in your device’s software. Additionally, it’s generally safe to restart your gadget because it does not affect your application’s data in any way.  Restarting your device helps it clear up its internal memory, improving its overall performance. The process is different for iOS and Android Users.  ### Using iOS  For iOS users, follow the steps below: 1. Long press your power button while pressing the volume button until you see the power button slider on the top of your screen. 2. Slide the Power icon to the right. 3. Once your iPhone is off, long press the power button to turn it on. 4. Open the Snapchat application to relaunch it. ### Using Android  For Android users, the steps are listed below.  1. Long-press the power button, and you will see 4 options: Power off, Restart, Mobile Data, and Emergency mode. 2. Click Restart and wait for your device to be turned on so you can relaunch Snapchat.  ## Disconnect Your Device From the Internet and Reconnect It Snapchat crashing can also be because of an unstable [internet connection](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-your-connection-is-not-private-error/). You can disconnect your device from your current WiFi or any connection and reconnect it after a few seconds. Additionally, you can try connecting to another WiFi if you have a spare one you can use. Disconnecting and reconnecting your device allows it to remove unwanted glitches and data.  To do this, follow the steps below.  1. Go to your settings.  2. Click on WiFi. Switch it off.  3. After a few seconds, turn it on to reconnect.  4. If you wish to connect to a different internet, disconnect from your current one and click the wiFi you desire to use.  ## Reset Your Network Settings Resetting your network settings also allows clearing glitches and overloaded data on your applications, giving Snapchat a fresh start. The process is the same for Android and iOS users, which are listed below.  1. Go to your settings, and click on General. 2. Scroll down towards the end and click the Reset option. 3. Choose “Reset Network Settings” from the options. 4. Confirm your choice. ## Turn off Your VPN Enabling VPN service on your device can cause Snapchat to close frequently and malfunction mainly because of IP fluctuation. You can always check this by going to your phone’s settings. To turn it off, follow the steps: 1. Go to Settings.  2. Select General and click VPN and Device Management. 3. Tap VPN and turn off the switch beside it.  4. Force close your Snapchat and relaunch it.  If you are using an Android device, turn off your VPN with these steps.  1. Go to Settings.  2. Click Connections.  3. Scroll towards the end and select “More Settings.”  4. You will see the VPN option. Check to see that it is not connected to any service.  5. Force close your Snapchat and relaunch it.  ## Remove Third-Party Applications on Snapchat  While your Snapchat is functioning properly, click on your screen’s profile icon in the top left-hand corner. Follow the succeeding steps below. 1. Select the Settings icon.  2. Scroll until you see the “Connected Apps” button under “My Account.” 3. You will see a list of applications connected to your Snapchat.  4. Tap the unauthorized third-party application you desire to remove.  5. Select “Remove” to confirm.  ## Final Say Snapchat is one of the most popular social media platforms, and it’s no secret that there have been some issues users have encountered with the app. However, there are ways to try and fix the problem. These solutions serve as easy fixes to your temporary Snapchat problem.  In the comment section below, let me know whether you have encountered Snapchat crashing and how you dealt with it. I hope you found this article helpful! If you do, don’t miss out on other insightful articles below.  - [How To Fix The Browsing Error “Your Connection is Not Private”?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-your-connection-is-not-private-error/) - [How Does Snapchat Make Money? How much?](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/)  - [The 5 Best Password Managers In 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 Snapchat is smaller but still real in 2026: ~422M daily actives (Snap Q4 2025), heavily skewed toward 13–24. The "make money on Snapchat" answer evolved — **Spotlight** is now the primary creator-monetization surface (replaced Discover for most independents in 2024). Snapchat+ subscription ($3.99/mo) crossed 11M subscribers by early 2025; some creator perks gate behind it. Account unlock flows didn't change much; the temporary lock still resolves in 24–48h via Settings → Help. The "permanently locked" path now triggers an automated review via Snap's Support form within ~7 days — markedly faster than the manual-only process described in older guides. --- ## Top 5 Live Chat Software To Download For Small Businesses Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-live-chat-software-to-download-for-small-businesses/ Published: 2022-08-09 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Assisting clients for your business could be challenging, especially if you lack the tools that are vital and relevant to your firm. Fortunately, choosing the right live chat software can amp up your business and keep the clients coming back to you. Client purchases and assistance inquiries can be managed online using the finest live chat technology. Well, I’m glad to inform you about the benefits of live chat software and what applications to use.  [Customers](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-customer-base/) demand fast feedback when they approach a company’s support staff, which is becoming more crucial since customer service has become a vital internet tool. Businesses must be present where their consumers and workers are, especially when they require assistance. Customers and staff have increasingly used communication and live messaging systems to seek support and service. Incorporating live chat into your website includes meeting your consumers where they feel most at ease. Clients that are more at ease try to purchase more and remain committed. But there’s more to introducing live chat than just client demands. ## Live Chat Software: What it is and the Benefits? Companies of all types can benefit from live chat. Starting a [business](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-to-optimizing-your-business-contribution-margin-ratio/) using web chat technology is a great method to engage with clients and increase conversion rates. You might not realize how better live chat applications are for your company than [email](https://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/EmailCommunication.htm), hotline, instant messaging apps, and other communication services. However, the advantages of live chat go well beyond providing your consumers with a quick and efficient means to contact your support team. Live chat may improve agent efficiency, better explain to your consumers, and influence your purchase decision to increase the consumer experience. The capacity to engage with web users on a real-time basis keeps live chat so useful. It’s like having a personal customer service representative for every one of your site visitors. And, due to artificial chatbots, even the tiniest staff can provide excellent customer service. ### Live Chat Software Encourages Trust You may help develop credibility by including [live chat](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2022/05/27/12-important-tips-every-customer-service-team-should-know-about-live-chat/?sh=4ab802272ee8) facilities on your webpage and making it accessible as an assistance alternative. Clients will perceive you as more reactive, more accessible, and overall more engaged in whatever they want if you provide a greater array of options. Introducing live chat assistance to your webpage and properly maintaining it may have a major impact on how your customers see your business and how much they trust you. Because there are so many cyber frauds, it’s only normal to be suspicious of new market participants. With live chat technology, you can increase availability. This extra step improves how customers connect with your company significantly. ### Boost Engagement and Sales Live chat support can assist you in providing immediate replies to customers who are already on your page and contemplating making a purchase. You can also utilize live chat technologies to exchange schedules with your clients so they can make reasonable arrangements for them. Happy consumers spend more, and connected consumers convert quicker. You may check both boxes using live chat, increasing profits throughout time. This feature allows your clients to bypass any client service issues that may cause them to be delayed. It even allows your employees to provide a service that assists customers in coming to a decision more quickly. When used as a reserve sales clerk, live chat can increase sales and customer satisfaction by being useful when needed. ### Taking Care of Client Complaints Many marketers turn these pain spots into earnings and sales possibilities by offering a remedy. Even though most of them seek to resolve this with blog postings, employing live chat is much more customized. It provides clients quick access to confirm that the item functions as claimed or to request an offer to give them the reductions they desire. Additionally, it can be tough to discover your customers’ pain issues using conventional support tools like email or phone chats since they would only be noticed by one team. On the other hand, access individuals can filter all chat history, search, and categorize to learn about client issues rapidly. As a result, the administration can quickly identify consumer problems or demands and devise strategies for addressing them. Other reasons why you should opt for live chat software: 1. Data from live chat can aid with product selection 2. Provides a seamless consumer experience 3. Increasing client satisfaction and loyalty 4. Boost access and affordability 5. Break language issues ## 1\. LiveAgent LiveAgent is an all-in-one support station and live chat strategy that allows organizations of all sizes to provide their consumers with the finest, in-time support. Generally, the software will manage calls from all of your contact channels and convert all discussions and interactions into saved reports for your personnel’s comfort. The systematic chat assignment feature in LiveAgent can be configured in various methods depending on the agent’s abilities and accessibility. You can limit the total of discussions in the line to preserve waiting times. Additionally, the chat icon switches to an offline mode when the limit is exceeded. The offline discussion icon acts as a pre-chat ticket, allowing the customers to enter their email addresses and leave a note, enabling you to reach them when you’re back online. LiveAgent currently has over 142 connections, namely HubSpot, WordPress, and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/), with many being introduced regularly. ## 2\. Help Scout For those seeking to get started with live chat, Help Scout is an excellent option.  When live assistance is unavailable, Help Scout’s Beacon allows you to provide a live chat option, display the appropriate body of knowledge pages, and allow consumers to contact you. When a user completes the basic conversation application, Help Scout’s efficient routing technology ensures that the inquiry is routed to the most competent chat operator. Beacon allows consumers to browse their paperwork directly from the chat button when a customer service person is unavailable. Help Scout also includes pre-built reports that allow you to analyze progress and assess opportunities. All its packages feature Beacon at no extra charge. Additionally, Help Scout is accessible on PC, iOS, and Android and can interface with most of your favorite programs. ## 3\. Vision Helpdesk Vision Helpdesk is a famous customer support application that enables services for [tech support](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/02/23/tech-support-trends-to-watch-in-2022/), maintenance desks, and live chat. Because of its cross messaging service, which allows for safe, real-time interaction with clients.  You may use it to boost team efficiency, connect site visitors, and automate tasks, among other things. Scheduled operator appointments, customer alerts, chat progression, prepared replies, chat gadgets, and chat grading are all included in Vision Helpdesk’s live chat system. Companies could also use round-robin criteria to guarantee that chats are distributed evenly among employees.  Lastly, virtual agents are included in this system, which aids in reducing reaction speed. ## 4\. LiveChat LiveChat is an interactive discussion and helpline tool that allows your assistant and service personnel to communicate with customers and prospects on your web pages. It has features and functionalities used for the online sales departments, customer analytics, and interactive client service or assistance. You may add a pre-chat questionnaire form to check how well your customer service agents and sales representatives work throughout and after a live web chat. If no one can respond, you can create a procedure that allows consumers to submit a support request straight from the web chat box, and your staff will be notified. Other support capabilities included with LiveChat help refine your customer engagement, such as site monitoring and preemptive chatting, enabling anyone to reach customers before seeking assistance. LiveChat also features a sophisticated API that lets you improve your client service procedures by integrating with your existing knowledge and booking system. ## 5\. HubSpot LiveChat HubSpot’s customized chat service and chatbot generator, which needs no coding, allows you to engage with your viewers in live time instantly. You can create greeting messages that appear on your websites to reach your company’s unique users while they’re all on your domain; this will boost the odds of conversions. Additionally, HubSpot Live Chat may be an excellent choice for individuals who want to see if chat might help them but don’t want to spend cash immediately. It’s a free option that you may link to your CRM if you utilize HubSpot. For convenient document safekeeping, live chat discussions with guests are stored in the conversations folder and the visitor’s contact log. Accelerate live chat interactions by replying to guests from the conversations inbox, allowing you to [schedule meetings](https://blog.appointy.com/2021/08/20/importance-of-scheduling/), make phone calls, write emails, and organize follow-up messaging. Here are other software you might want to check out: - Sendinblue - Drift - Chatlio - Velaro - Pipedrive ## Wrapping Up! Live chat systems quickly become a crucial sales and support service because they allow startups and businesses to acquire information and convert them in real-time. Some people may not appreciate the tool’s advantages, whereas others find it extremely difficult to choose the finest live chat program for their purposes. The live chat system industry is getting increasingly diversified, making it difficult for new purchasers to find one that meets all of their needs. If anything, live chat platforms have raised the bar in the customer care sector. You better make sure that you do your research before deciding on the best live chat software to invest in so you don’t regret your decision! Make sure to leave a remark on what you think I should cover in my next post! Also, please check out my other articles for more informative articles like this. - [How you can get verified on Instagram for free](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) - [How to Build a Profitable Business. Flux Chargers story: From street selling to $110k/mo and 91 countries](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) - [How to Sell Any Product (Tutorial + 7 Creative Sales Techniques)](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Incfile Vs. Rocket Lawyer: Features, Pricing And More! Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/incfile-vs-rocket-lawyer-features-pricing-and-more/ Published: 2022-08-08 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Silver plan includes a fee of $0 and a fee from the state, as well as: - Search for available business names - Putting together the Articles of Organization and filing them - A free year of service from a registered agent - Lifetime customer support - Business tax help, among other things 2\. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line When you’re starting a new company, you need a service that offers a good balance of quality, knowledge, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness. IncFile and Rocket Lawyer are widely regarded as two of the most reliable and effective firms for forming limited liability companies (LLCs). It is now usual practice for business owners to work with a professional formation agency when registering a limited liability company. And because there is such a broad variety of businesses that provide LLC services, reaching your aim of locating an alternative suitable for your firm’s requirements is within reach. When I start a new business, one of the first things I do is check into different [business formation services](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-fiverr-gigs/) so that I may establish my corporate organization. In addition, I find it easier to concentrate on operating my company rather than simultaneously attempting to deal with its legal element. The good news is that there are now online services that can handle the establishment of a corporation. They can help with the continuing files that need to be performed and even the legal aspects of successfully operating a firm. Rocket Lawyer and Incfile are both excellent services that [help small businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/) get off the ground. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two. Both options are quite good, but there are some major distinctions between them that you should be aware of before making a decision based on your company’s requirements. ## Incfile and Rocket Lawyer Overview [IncFile](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/incfile) and Rocket Lawyer are professional services that have been around for quite some time and specialize in establishing LLCs. Both of them are strong options because of the positive feedback they receive from customers and their competitive prices. However, because these services may be relatively comparable to one another, it can be difficult to determine which one is the most appropriate for your needs. Both Rocket Lawyer and IncFile are outstanding firms with a long history of assisting businesses through forming enterprises and navigating legal issues. They both have a proven track record of being effective in aiding businesses. Depending on what you’re looking for, one of these choices could be superior to the other. ## IncFile When it comes to [beginning a firm](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/), small business owners may benefit greatly from using Incfile since it is one of the most cost-effective and reliable online incorporation services. It includes a large number of fantastic features. Their business creation service is where they truly excel and distinguish themselves from the competition. Since its founding in 2004, [IncFile LLC](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/incfile) has assisted new companies with their incorporation process. To date, the company has assisted more than 250,000 enterprises. ### Pricing There are three distinct LLC formation packages available on the IncFile LLC website; it includes Silver, Gold, and Platinum Package. Each package offers a unique combination of cost and functionality depending on your requirements.  **1\. Silver plan** includes a fee of $0 and a fee from the state, as well as: - Search for available business names - Putting together the Articles of Organization and filing them - A free year of service from a registered agent - Lifetime customer support - Business tax help, among other things **2\. Gold plan** offers all of the features of the Silver plan in addition to extra services, including the following: - EIN acquisition - Putting together your Operating Agreement - Articles of Organization were sent quickly - Setting up a bank account for a business - Personalized book to keep track of the company’s money **3 Platinum** formation package contains the following: - swift handling of all paperwork - everything you need in one place - Creating a website ### Pros - Affordable - User-Friendly - Silver only includes the state charge to incorporate an LLC. Here’s your state filing fee - Phone and email support forever - Free name analysis - One year free registered agent service - You can follow your order and LLC formation online - Free 1-hour company tax advice - 15-year history - Over 15,000 favorable internet reviews ### Cons - On their free plan, EINs cost $70 - Incfile Customer Assistance can be hard to understand and has restricted phone hours - Registration procedure includes upgrades and add-ons - They can be aggressive up-sellers, which can cause an over-sale ## Rocket Lawyer Since its founding in 2008, Rocket Lawyer has rapidly expanded to become one of the most successful businesses operating in the legal services industry. They offer a wide range of legal assistance, including services for establishing businesses, creating legal documents and contracts, wealth management, real estate planning, and other services. ### Pricing Most entrepreneurs will decide which business creation service has the lowest startup costs. For this reason, assign cost a two-fold weight when rating services. Of course, don’t only look at the service’s price tag but also assess its value to the client. When compared to the prices of competing services, Rocket Lawyer’s prices stand out due to its membership-based pricing rather than tiered pricing with a variety of various plan alternatives. Even if you solely hire them for their incorporation service or to create an LLC, you will still be required to pay the state filing cost. ### Pros 1. Online legal advice 2. Easy-to-use form builder for making your contracts and legal documents 3. There is a feature called Document Defense that backs up contracts 4. Free for 7 days 5. Service of a registered agent (not free) 6. Members get a 40% discount on an attorney’s regular fees ### Cons A pricey membership fee is required even if you don’t anticipate needing the services consistently. Suppose you are a small business owner and foresee the need for legal services, advice, and aid, or the odd inquiry about the law. In that case, utilizing an attorney from Rocket Lawyer will be more cost-effective than engaging a law firm. ## Points of Comparison This comparison guide will take you step-by-step through all the pertinent facts of the five essential elements to evaluate online incorporation services. Is Incfile the most suitable option for your freshly launched company? Or does Rocket Lawyer offer an exceptional level of service? ### Pricing and Value When you require basic LLC services, [Incfile](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/incfile) is more cost-effective than Rocket Lawyer. If you are not a monthly member of Rocket Lawyer, the entry-level creation package that Incfile offers will cost you less money. On the other hand, if you require ongoing legal support, go with the TRUiC and Rocket Lawyer New Business Bundle deal.  This package includes free one year of registered agent services, incorporation services, and numerous legal assistance like simple contracts and documents, prompt legal advice, additional discounts, and more. ### Legal Services Rocket Lawyer is an industry leader in offering quality legal services to company owners and entrepreneurs. If you are launching a real estate firm, Rocket Lawyer can provide you with extra counsel and peace of mind about rental requests, lease agreements, and other legal matters. Large legal library templates, responses from certified attorneys, phone sessions for legal concerns, and other types of legal assistance are all part of their services. ### Customer Service [Incfile](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/incfile) offers phone and email assistance. Both choices feature rapid response times and competent, helpful employees. Weekdays from 10 am-7 pm ET, call customer support. Rocket Lawyer offers phone, email, and web-based chat help. Like Incfile, they respond swiftly and have knowledgeable reps. Rocket Lawyer has a little advantage in availability, but it’s not enough to win this category. Both organizations provide good customer assistance. ### Experience Although Rocket Lawyer is the younger of the two, the company’s history, which has just transformed it into one of the industry heavyweights, never fails to wow. Since it first opened its doors in 2008, the organization has accomplished the processing of over 20 million orders and has amassed hundreds of good customer testimonials. Although it is extremely difficult to compete with Rocket Lawyer regarding the number of work they undertake, IncFile’s reputation has not suffered. Not only have they assisted more than 250,000 consumers, but they also have a considerable amount of knowledge in managing LLC forms and delivering related services. ### Customer Support Deciding without considering the quality of the company’s customer service will lead to poor results. Suppose you have a question about the product, but the firm refuses to answer it. This would be a poor experience. Your options for contacting [Incfile](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/incfile) include phoning, emailing, or chatting with them online. They are quick to respond. There is no waiting time on the phone. However, you can expect an email answer within one business day if you contact them by email. Customer service is available from 10 am to 7 pm (ET) on weekdays for IncFile. Rocket Lawyer’s customer service offerings are comparable to those of other legal service providers. There are a variety of ways to communicate with each other. They have well-trained and friendly customer service staff.  However, some customers complain about the long wait time for a response if you write an email to them. There is a 9 am to 9 pm (ET) customer service window for Rocket Lawyer on weekdays. ### Order Tracking Uncertainty is something that no one enjoys. If it is possible to monitor the sequence in which your limited liability company was formed, you may put your worries to rest and concentrate on other matters. IncFile provides a helpful order tracking feature with real-time updates, which allows you to determine how far along your order is at any given time. On the other hand, Rocket Lawyer also allows you to monitor the status of your order through the online profile you create there. Although IncFile’s tool is somewhat easier to use than its competitor’s, we consider this category a tie because both programs accomplish the same goals. ## Wrapping Up! When everything is considered, Incfile is best suited for those who are just establishing a small business and don’t require continuing legal services. You will receive a fantastic genuine order tracking system in addition to a free registered agent for one year. Rocket Lawyer has a significant edge in terms of experience and provides services beyond merely LLC creation. The New Business Bundle is the most cost-effective option for business owners who want to ensure that they have access to high-caliber legal services for their existence.  It is up to you to decide whether you want to start your business with the added legal skills offered by Rocket Lawyer or to register an LLC with Incfile. Both options are available to you. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Types Of Blogs Are Most Popular? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-types-of-blogs-are-most-popular/ Published: 2022-08-08 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Blogs are one of the ways to connect to other people through the use of the Internet. It is also a way to exercise your freedom of speech and express your thoughts to the public.  When starting a blog site, you have to know what niche you will focus on. There are various kinds of blogs, and you just have to pick one that you are interested in. However, you have to make sure if your articles need to just produce only the truths or do they require your own opinion as an author. Regardless, your focal point is still your audience. When you start your blogging career, pick a target audience that will not make you compromise and adjust your mindset and stance. Of course, you have to stay relevant. Lastly, there are many websites that you can use to start your journey. You just have to pick one that is easy for you and your niche. Netizens believe that blogging is dying, or so they thought. But when you look at it, blogging has become mainstream to many people. It may be a breakthrough to some or just a hobby, regardless, blogging has meaning to them, and it will produce more in the future.  If you are a person that is planning to start a blogging career, then I think you have come to the right place. This article will tackle the different types of blogs that could be perfect for your writing style and personality. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrH5XcE2mBU ## 5 Most Popular Types Of Blog ### 1\. Personal Blog As you all know, personal blogs are one of the oldest types of content in the cyber world. It focuses on the author’s personal opinions and experiences. They could treat it as their diary because what their readers want or need to hear won’t matter. As mentioned, personal blogs are more of the author’s thoughts about something. ### 2\. Business/ Corporate Blog Entrepreneurs have finally learned how to use blogs as their [marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/ultimate-digital-marketing-guide-for-beginners/) strategy. They use blogs to make their business known to the public, offer their services, reach potential clients, and make it easier for the public to access their information. ### 3\. Review Blog Netizens have been checking the ratings and reviews of different websites to know if a product or a movie is worth it. One of the most popular types of content is a review blog. Usually, they are paid to evaluate and list the advantages and disadvantages of a product or a service. ### 4\. Niche Blogs Niche blogs focus on just one topic. For example, if you love to travel and like to try new things, you can focus on travel blogs. If you love to binge eat at different restaurants and try new food, you’ll want to make a blog about foods. The thing is, blogging is for everyone. You just have to think of something that you love to do. To start, think of something that you are interested in. Then, try to take the risk and start your blogging career. Some of the topics that you want to focus on are: 1. Sports 2. Travel 3. Fashion 4. Food 5. Home Decor 6. DIYs 7. Music 8. Movies 9. Education 10. Health and Fitness If there’s a topic that you like to try that is not very known to the public, take the risk or lose the chance. Remember, netizens have easy access to the web, and they can learn everything by just typing it. ### 5\. News Blog News blogs keep people updated with the current issues the world is facing. They must constantly upload, especially if they’re a known site. Unlike other blogs, your opinion as an author doesn’t matter. You must provide facts and let your readers know the truth. When writing news articles, your heading and introduction must be catchy to the eyes of the reader. Starting a news blog site can be really expensive as you have to invest in equipment and create a team. ## How to Pick The Right Topic for Your Blog? It can be difficult to start your [blogging](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2022/05/02/five-blogging-tips-for-attorneys/?sh=4038cece8549) career. You may worry about what could happen if readers don’t find your blogs enticing or if they don’t align with your perspectives and stances on a certain topic. So, when you feel like you don’t want to continue, then go back to why you started in the first place. ### Target Audience Knowing who your target audience should be your priority. Narrowing it can make it easier for you to pick a topic and the focal point of your blog site.  If you want to start a personal blog, make sure that your target audience has the same way of thinking, beliefs, and stance. Writing should be comfortable, and your readers should not be why you should compromise and adjust. ### Be Relevant Being well-updated with the trends can catch the interest of netizens and your target audience. Make sure to take notes about the relevance of the topic to your readers, relevance to your goal, why you made the blog, and how you can develop a solution. ### Take Advantage of Existing Blogs And Trends To fully catch the attention of your existing readers and get the potential audience, use the internet to choose a certain topic. Search for popular articles and try to connect them with your niche.  For example, a trendy shoe has just come out, so how can you connect it with your travel blog? Or maybe a restaurant is trying to pay you for an advertisement. How will you connect in your health and fitness blog? Making a blog requires a lot of creativity, quality, and time. You must continually update your website and be as relevant as possible to stay connected with your readers. ## 6 Best Free Blogging Sites To Start Your Blogging Career ### 1\. [WordPress](https://wordpress.org/) (wordpress.org) [WordPress](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) is famous to aspiring bloggers as they are user-friendly, and it could help them start their chosen career. Of course, choosing this means you have to invest in buying your own domain and web hosting to start your own website. ### 2\. [Wix]() (wix.com) Wix is another user-friendly website that lets you have full control of your page. The best thing about this is its drag-and-drop option and features made for beginners. You don’t need to learn about JavaScript or HTML or any coding to start your website because of its easy-to-use features. ### 3\. [Blogger](https://www.blogger.com/) (blogger.com)  Blogger is recommended for people who are not very tech-savvy. What’s good about this is [Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-scholar-to-generate-content-ideas/) offers this site for everyone, and you only need to have an account to start using their awesome features. It is really good for people who like to have personal blogs, but it is not recommended for corporate or news blogs. They have amazing features like minimalistic widgets and color filtering. Because of these designs, authors can focus more on writing catchy articles for their readers. ### 4\. [Tumblr](https://www.tumblr.com/) (tumblr.com) Many people use [Tumblr](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ajdellinger/2021/12/28/these-words-are-banned-on-tumblrs-ios-apps-according-to-users/) even if they don’t really write blogs, or it’s not really their passion. But you see, that’s what makes Tumblr a nice site to start your blogging career. It’s the easiest platform to use for blogging. Besides, you could find potential readers on Tumblr, and soon, when you finally build your name up, you can invite them to go on your own website. ### 5\. [Weebly](https://www.weebly.com/) (weebly.com) For entrepreneurs who would like to use blogs as their marketing strategy and connect with their clients, Weebly can be a way for your objective. However, investing in this website can be expensive when you want to own your domain and access its exclusive features. Yet, you don’t need to set it up to get the hosted version of your website. ### 6\. [Jimdo](https://www.jimdo.com/)  (jimdo.com) Jimdo is another site that is perfect for business or corporate blogs. Because it offers free basic features that already let you create your own website, Jimdo is one of the popular ones to start your journey. Also, you can manually edit your page and the website itself because it is a page builder. ## To Sum It All Up! It is not too late or too early to start your blogging journey. You just have to pick the right type of blog, how you will connect to your existing readers and potential ones, and how you will keep it going.  Leave a comment below on how you began your blogging journey! I’d love to hear all about it. Also, if you loved the article, read more of my articles below: - [20 Best SEO Tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [Google Voice SEO Tips – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/)  - [How Does Google Make Money? 2022 – Alejandro Rioja](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 6 Best Email Marketing Services for Small Business Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/6-best-email-marketing-services-for-small-business/ Published: 2022-08-05 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Email marketing is one of the effective digital marketing ways to convert visitors into returning customers. Finding the right email marketing platform is the first step toward success with your email campaign. Additionally, a great email marketing platform assists you to be closer with your consumers, boost your brand and increase your sales and revenue.  Among the most useful tools for businesses to reach out to interested customers is email marketing. However, you should ensure that you will use the right email marketing service to succeed in your business’s email marketing strategy.  But what if you’re not familiar with email marketing and don’t know what to use among the email marketing services you see on the internet? Is it really useful for your small business? We’ll talk about that in this article. So, keep on reading! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WE4A-cTWonA ## What is Email Marketing? Email marketing is an extremely effective [digital marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/ultimate-digital-marketing-guide-for-beginners/) approach in which customized, and bulk emails are used to persuade customers to do a certain action, such as buying a product. Successful email marketing converts potential buyers into clients and one-time consumers into returning customers and ardent supporters. This type of marketing strategy remains very [effective in boosting your business](https://www.forbes.com/sites/allbusiness/2020/10/26/email-marketing-still-the-most-powerful-tool-to-take-your-business-to-the-next-level/?sh=315c7cce34bf). According to a summary by [OptinMonster](https://optinmonster.com/email-marketing-vs-social-media-performance-2016-2019-statistics/), email marketing surpasses [social media marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/7-ways-to-combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) in this area.  An email marketing strategy combines different types of emails, helpful and promotional ones, that could help you attract customers.  Different types of email marketing emails are: 1. Welcome Email 2. Offer Email 3. Survey Email 4. Request Email 5. Free Gift Email 6. Value Email 7. New Product Email 8. Reorder Email 9. Announcement Email and more Each person receives many emails every day, including business, digital marketing, and spam. It’s hard to check every email in a cluttered inbox, so selecting the proper email marketing service is important. Accordingly, as you search on the internet, you see a lot of email marketing platforms. How can you choose the best among these platforms?  ## How to Select the Best Email Marketing Service Provider? It’s essential to select the best email marketing service to take your business to the next level. Your progress with email marketing is dependent on the service provider you select because they will be responsible for ensuring that your emails are sent. As you look for great email marketing services, here are some factors that you could consider in choosing: 1. Many beautiful and useful templates that you could use for any of your needs 2. Customizable tools and an easy-to-use email builder 3. Simple segmentation to help you target different audiences for different products 4. Easy-to-set-up automated emails for efficient use 5. Bulk and broadcast email supported 6. High deliverability rate to avoid sending your emails to the clients’ spam folder 7. Analytics and performance tracker 8. Email and phone support Here are some suggestions for service providers of email marketing based on the abovementioned factors.  ## 6 Best Email Marketing Services for Small Businesses ### 1\. Constant Contact ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/yJb4vWe1PjVIdJF_6IB2GJAVq-UolfQQHdT3TncxGN3-JZRNMnoJr7bXHliqisuROsVhusgKswVidb05vXldYVWRjPk4sYPT0-RIBOH11ytQ5iq0Q7BNdCos4roPJIIJYkA_wobWnbtco5OOrcFgug) [Constant Contact](https://www.constantcontact.com/) is a popular email marketing service provider for small companies. They offer more than 100 customizable email templates and many advanced tools that could help you with your [email marketing campaigns](https://avivdigital.in/email-marketing-strategy/).  Features: 1. Simple and beginner-friendly 2. Automated emails and drip series 3. Audience list segmentation 4. Monitor the progress of your campaigns in real-time With Constant Contact, you can manage and set up your email lists, templates, contacts, and more. It offers a 30 to 60-day free trial instead of a free plan; no credit card is required. After that, the pricing starts at $ 9.99 per month. As you use Constant Contact’s free trial, you can access all their tools to help you in your email marketing.  Constant Contact provides excellent customer service and a wide library of helpful information. ### 2\. Sendinblue ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/mVOMtA2wYQD5r2VmE3M7_mYiQreAMNv4KbeaUDK8A0-K0Am6GwvVD757UJKySsJmYzZcGsFCD7lyzTCWHdvuxzThRhYT7KDdPWAw_cKgctnBuweqUUWjGDRyd7oCkTNrEv1RCeAk8ZCUbI1wArTNOg) [SendinBlue](https://www.sendinblue.com/?tap_a=30591-fb13f0&tap_s=399365-5deed4) is one of the well-known email marketing services because of its simple platform with advanced tools to create unique emails. Their drag-and-drop email feature is useful for beginners who have no experience in email marketing. Features: - Beginner-friendly - Automation features - Smart segmentation - Has great email deliverability with the use of their AI algorithms - A/B testing to know which is the outstanding campaign They offer a free plan that you could access and send 300 emails per day, with unlimited contacts, chat, SMS marketing, and access to their email template library. Additionally, they have their Lite plan ($25 per month) and a premium plan ($65 per month) with additional features like live chat and [Facebook ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-the-facebook-ads-library-helps-your-business-grow/) integration.  ### 3\. Hubspot ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/w3jVUXznEyg_zqaNGUtmDgdZu72NSnOR1TmfExy5pxUidIL3xKKpExnTZZYMnANVgjw2lo9f4ULf_9qxwN6nEKIf-KyF0tmUmYp5kGlVc7-ngmMHLpjI9hm9MCeQvM_HKTJjtackLEfeltXajIj4kQ) [Hubspot](https://www.hubspot.com/marketing/free/am-free-email?irclickid=Qbq1fXXWmxyIWgcQIFylmX2%3AUkDx9cQtcQ6fw00&irgwc=1&mpid=11535&utm_id=am11535&utm_medium=am&utm_source=am11535&utm_campaign=amcid_Qbq1fXXWmxyIWgcQIFylmX2%3AUkDx9cQtcQ6fw00_irpid_11535) is a known email marketing service provider with [CRM software](https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/7839-best-crm-software.html). With email marketing and CRM software working as one, you can create high-quality customized emails that could boost your open rates.  Their email marketing service has an easy drag-and-drop email builder feature and goal-based prepared templates that you could use to get started on your email marketing. Features: 1. Easy to set up and use 2. List segmentation 3. Detailed performance analytics 4. Send time optimization and high email deliverability 5. A/B testing 6. Automated emails Many businesses choose Hubspot as their marketing platform because of its all-in-one service, including email marketing, CRM, automated workflows, etc.  Hubspot offers a free plan on its service, including the CRM feature and free marketing service and operation tools. Their free plan allows you to send up to 2,000 emails and save an unlimited number of subscribers. Hubspot also has free landing pages, live chats, ad management, etc.  ### 4\. Moosend ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/4mHJTOZaxjT8TJtYnH802JKPutdptPeyYJk8ZPiDOeAI-9Q0Livi12pkBW7IJIEL1BlqoBzOVudmrM76JsbLr3bF156AovwLumYeKE-Yy9evtufsQ3UUa2V8lI5ikrvds3H1vPh-z0ifojKnoENLUg) [Moosend](https://moosend.com/) is one of the perfect services that you could use for [eCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/). It is a beginner and budget-friendly email marketing service for small businesses.  You could start with your email marketing using one of the 70+ prepared Moosend’s designed email templates or build your personalized email template using a drag-and-drop editor. Features: 1. List segmentation 2. Automation workflow 3. Detailed email analytics 4. Separate mobile editor 5. A/B testing, heatmaps, popup forms, and more Moosend offers a free plan with access to unlimited emails and up to 1,00 email subscribers. You could also access the automation workflow during the free trial. No credit card is required.  Then, for the Pro plan, pricing at $8 per month includes landing pages, transactional emails, phone support, etc. ### 5\. Drip ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UdwipqRv40Kd1IMlRtMBR778lAG8bFOydSrVapOYJsND6-c5GPfpsvlMrtoZMDKTt7wJTANnu47V8PSqZG9cWL2gqhkiQYQXb59EBm5hQnYFzsHq7q-Goma51OOkMyYvuLwyt9t3-tX_0R6sozvQEQ) [Drip](https://www.drip.com/?gspk=U3llZEJhbGtoaQ&gsxid=yIKGqpO74bEp) is a well-known email marketing service platform for eCommerce businesses, bloggers, and marketers. It has a wide variety of built-in tools that could assist you in improving buyer engagement.  Additionally, Drip includes smart marketing automation, causing it to be more than just an email marketing provider. This email marketing platform lets you communicate with your consumers and send emails at the right time after understanding what they want and need. With Drip, you can customize your messages depending on their actions on your site or business. Features: 1. Easy to use 2. Provide smooth connection across all main website builders, such as WordPress and WooCommerce 3. Create welcome emails and other drip series 4. Automated marketing tools and workflow 5. Smart email segmentation and list groups 6. Split testing features 7. Detailed analytics Drip also includes a profit attribution function to see which campaigns truly bring you money. They offer a 14-day free trial, and for premium, the pricing is based on how many subscribers you have. Drip starts at $19 per month, letting you send unlimited emails to 500 subscribers. The price increases as your subscriber list grow. ### 6\. ConvertKit ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nMKCiyjCYYCgZTPn-tKDLtymQYGCII1Dx8km10fYMgwSgMPO9i3iF_pDiurw0PeMPhZaaPWsrtNfSzeNaZL3bQbvZljatyU5PEPm7faozdgLU9hIfIXhpL2orkriR379SqefsiYsQZxCdpHO1C3ykQ) [ConvertKit](https://convertkit.com/?lmref=1nOF-g) is the best choice for creators such as influencers, bloggers, podcasters, and more. You could design engaging forms and send personalized emails to specific subscribers.  One unique feature of ConvertKit is that with email registration forms, you can quickly offer content updates and benefits. It also includes popups, link pages, and landing pages that you can customize.  Features: 1. Easy to use 2. Easy subscriber segmentation and sending targeted content 3. Make strong, automated funnels and tailor a subscriber’s route based on their activities. 4. Email rules and automation 5. User-friendly UI and email editor 6. Many marketing integrations 7. Smart workflows They also have an additional feature wherein you can sell digital products and subscriptions. Their system engages your consumers through landing pages, eCommerce sites, and membership sites. ConvertKit doesn’t have a free plan, but it offers a 14-day free trial. After that, the price starts at $29 per month, having up to 1,000 subscribers.  Like most email marketing service providers, ConvertKit pricing is based on the number of subscribers. ## Why Should You Consider Email Marketing? With technology advancing, most people now use emails, SMS, and [social media platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-social-media-can-help-your-business-grow/). If you are a small business owner who wants to take your business to the next level, the proper selection of email marketing service platforms could help boost your business.  Liked this post? Read more from the articles I wrote about digital marketing and small business that you might find helpful. - [Ultimate Digital Marketing Guide For Beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/ultimate-digital-marketing-guide-for-beginners/) - [E-Commerce Marketing Guide for 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/e-commerce-marketing-guide-for-2022/) - [5 Must-Try Content Marketing Trends To Boost Your Traffic In 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) Drop a comment to let me know what other topics you want to know! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Everything You Need To Know About Concierge Service Model Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-concierge-service-model/ Published: 2022-08-03 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line How would you like to get the VIP treatment without being a celebrity? In the concierge business model, your customers feel like they are getting the best service available. Concierge services are increasing in popularity as a way to make customers feel valued. It’s not just about offering coffee or flowers anymore. You can offer to do everything from dropping off dry cleaning to ordering lunch at your favorite restaurant. It can be a challenge for small business owners to provide excellent customer service and stand out in a sea of competitors. A concierge service is an option that can help your small business stand out in the crowd! It is expensive to run a small business. A lot of time and money goes into finding and hiring the right employees, ensuring that products are delivered on time, and providing top-notch customer service.  The only way to give back to the company owners is by increasing sales. And one of the best ways to do that is by hiring a concierge service. A good concierge can take care of all of those daily errands you don’t have time for but need to be done in order for your business to run smoothly. In this article, I will talk about how the concierge service model works. We will touch upon the basics of the concierge service model and its detailed elements. ## What Is A Concierge? A concierge is a person who provides the services of a personal assistant to an individual or small group. Generally, concierge services are often referred to as lifestyle management, but the role differs from lifestyle management.  [Services](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/06/02/the-business-case-for-digital-transformation/) provided by the concierge typically include assistance with errands such as dry cleaning, booking appointments and reservations, making travel arrangements, and preparing personal shopping lists. From a personal organizer to someone who helps you get the best seats at a show and gets you discounts, a concierge service is ideal for small business startups. ## Understanding Concierge Service Model The first stage of the concierge service model is to determine what services your concierge business will provide. Some businesses offer only one specific service, while others offer a full-service a la carte options menu. Regardless of which option you choose, these options come at about the same price point. However, the flexibility for customization allows you to adjust your pricing easily to suit your customer’s needs and budgets. ## Know Your Market The concierge business is a promising and lucrative one because the service you provide your client is so much better than what they are accustomed to receiving. People will spend money for convenience, and in today’s fast-paced [world](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-social-media-can-help-your-business-grow/), that means more money for you. ### Center Attention To Big-Ticket Markets All of your customers are busy and have a lot to do. But, it’s important to differentiate between the high and low-income earners. You can use this fact to help you decide where to focus your marketing efforts. The good thing about the concierge business model is that you can focus on clients with higher incomes. You aren’t just going to pick up the overflow from other businesses like a babysitter might.  Additionally, the benefit of this is that when you focus on someone who has disposable income, they are less likely to try cutting corners and searching for cheaper alternatives. That’s great for your bottom line. ### Marketing Keep in mind that [marketing](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kpmg/2017/09/01/four-steps-to-guide-your-digital-transformation/) is one of the keys to success in the concierge business model. This means working with a marketing expert to ensure that your brand is appealing, consistent, and professional. It also means doing some marketing legwork yourself, such as networking, blogging, and real-world marketing. The work you do now can greatly impact your future business opportunities. Ask any concierge about their marketing efforts, and you’ll probably find that they devote most of their time to getting new clients and not much time marketing to existing clients.  This isn’t always the best strategy because sometimes [marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) to existing clients is better than more work. You can expand your work instead by promoting your services via flyers, email newsletters, and other forms of communication where current clients are likely to be reading them. ### Establish Relationships Think about all of the places where you have met someone, had a conversation with them, and never seen them again. The concierge business is different because it’s based on relationships. This, in turn, creates quick results, trustworthy recommendations, and loyalty to your brand. The more you get to know your clients, their interests, and what they like, the better off you will be when tackling their requests. ## Concierge Services You Need To Consider Concierge services were considered a luxury, but people are attracted to digital concierge services with the advancement of technology. Additionally, big hotels and elite-class people initially used these services.  But now, the scenario has changed; many companies are doing such services for middle-class people. ## Lifestyle Concierge Lifestyle Concierge is a service that provides personalized services to clients every month. It covers areas that include taking care of family and personal and professional lifestyles.  This is different from the hotel concierge service because the client does not have to visit an agency whenever they need something. ## Business Concierge  A business concierge is a high-end service that helps companies manage their day-to-day [business](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) activities. Often, an employee of a company will be confused about what task they should handle or who should be approached first.  With the help of a business concierge, they can have all the information about what needs to be done and where and how it should be done. ## Travel Concierge Travel concierge is the service that helps people to get the best out of their trip. Generally, a travel concierge offers a full range of services, including the following: 1.  Booking accommodations 2.  Restaurant reservations 3.  Transportation bookings around the world Providing a convenient central point for travelers to organize their trip in advance allows them to focus on their vacation rather than shopping around for their travel needs. ## How To Start A Concierge Service Model? Take the worry and stress out of arranging travel details for your clients by developing a mobile concierge app. This is a great way to offer an even more personal service and make sure all their needs are catered for.  The mobile app can also prove helpful in other areas, such as restaurant reservations or activity bookings, and is a useful tool for managing customer data. 1. Find a niche. 2. Register business. 3. Obtain a license for your business. 4. Know your forte. 5. Fund your business. 6. Establish your business. 7. Promote your services. ## Where this leaves us Technology has advanced so much in today’s world that we can do almost everything remotely. This has changed the functionality of the concierge service business, and it is no longer necessary that a concierge does his job remotely. With digitization, the business model is finally starting to expand globally and even in emerging markets. There is very low competition for this particular service, making it an extremely lucrative market for entrepreneurs. Additionally, concierge service is still new in the market, there are not too many people who know how to start it. So, there’s a massive opportunity available for those willing to try something new and get trained from scratch! If you find this article helpful for you, you may want to read these also: - [Top Tips To Optimizing Your Business’ Contribution Margin Ratio](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-to-optimizing-your-business-contribution-margin-ratio/) - [How To Be A Productive Machine](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/)  - [How To Scale Your Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## CoinTracker: Features, Reviews, And Alternatives You Shouldn’t Miss Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/cointracker-features-reviews-and-alternatives-you-shouldnt-miss/ Published: 2022-08-02 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: In January 2022, CoinTracker got their Series A, having been funded for $100 million, where venture capital firm Accel has led this round. Especially in June 2021, when 221 million worldwide users have been active in buying and selling crypto. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line CoinTracker can help you with tax compliance, which you must do every year. You won’t have that much hassle and dread going through the computations and all the transactions. But right into the review, you’ll see which features are worth paying access to. It would still depend on your need and how much budget you would spend on these features. With the rise of cryptocurrency, handling your crypto finances, especially its taxes, can be time-consuming, and a lot of data is needed to input and compute for accuracy. Such computations are made easy with the CoinTracker.  It does more than [monitor your bitcoins](https://flux.la/want-to-simplify-filing-bitcoin-taxes-read-this/) and provides you with the information you need for your investments. Such a huge amount of data that automation is necessary to make it convenient and instantly to generate results in a few minutes. If you’re getting started or want to become progressive in increasing your crypto investments, CoinTracker tools will simplify and, at the same time, monitor your transactions. This will provide you with results to plan thoroughly based on the data. Let me help you learn more about CoinTracker, and here’s a review for you to weigh the features you’ll be using.  ## CoinTracker: Bitcoin Tax and Crypto Manager CoinTracker was founded back in 2017 and had major investors such as Yahoo, and even renowned tennis star, Serena Williams. There are also 500,000 users on their platform. In January 2022, CoinTracker got their Series A, having been funded for $100 million, where venture capital firm Accel has led this round. Especially in June 2021, when [221 million worldwide users](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220127005388/en/CoinTracker-Raises-100-Million-Series-A-at-a-1.3-Billion-Valuation-to-Power-Consumers%E2%80%99-Cryptocurrency-Tax-Compliance-and-Portfolio-Tracking) have been active in buying and selling crypto. What the CoinTracker does in crypto management involves: 1. Tracking 2. Buying 3. Selling assets Knowing the basics, it manages your cryptocurrency portfolio, where lies the inventory of your online currency investments. NFTs can also be managed by tracking your transaction here.  ## Features We’ll guide you more on its features by dissecting each of its details to give you a more comprehensive analysis, especially on whether you’ll pay for some of the premium access. ### Auto Wallet Sync CoinTracker automatically synchronizes your portfolio across thousands of crypto tokens. They have daily synchronization of your wallets and exchanges, where you can also manually sync by clicking on the “Sync Wallets” button at the top of the Wallets page. ### Multiple Cost Basis Methods  According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), cryptocurrency is considered a property, as it is taxed and taxes you according to your capital gains.  On the other hand, your capital loss can offset capital gains for the year. The cost basis methods that CoinTracker uses are:  1. First In First Out (FIFO) 2. Highest In First Out (HIFO) 3. Last In First Out (LIFO) 4. Share Pooling (AS) 5. Adjusted Cost Base (ACB).  In generating tax forms, these cost basis methods significantly reduce the taxes you’ll need to pay. ### Tax Compliance CoinTracker automatically calculates your tax using various options of cost basis methods to lower your taxes. It would give you a seamless generated report containing detailed breakdowns to monitor and gain insights efficiently. The CoinTracker has software integrations with TurboTax and TaxAct: - TurboTax – can be used for file imports and integration with other financial services companies, free for people with W-2 income or Social Security income, but this is only available for simple tax returns. - TaxAct – has free access to Xpert Assist for all of the plans. Free access is only for people with W-2 income, unemployment income, or Social Security income. You can use this feature to download your tax report whenever you file your taxes. ### Transaction Tracking You can [track your wallet’s incoming and outgoing transactions](https://flux.la/how-should-online-gaming-sites-build-trust-with-u-s-audiences/) and exchanges, as you can connect to over [300 wallets](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/) like Ledger, TrustWallet, Coinbase, and more.  ### Trade Reports Reports can be monitored all in one dashboard and have a glance through the data, so you would be able to draw your decisions of buying, selling, or trading coins. ### Track Your Investment Performance CoinTracker has the power to cost basis tracking, automatic detection, and price history detection. The users will then be given insights from the report regarding investment performance and your Return on investment (ROI).  ### Security CoinTracker security feature where wallets are in read-only setups. It uses SSL encryption that prevents any sensitive data from leaking out when transferred from one system to another and also requires two-factor authentication for the tokens. ## CoinTracker Pricing And Plans After checking out the features, you can decide which premium packages are worth getting depending on your priorities when it comes to your cryptocurrency investments. ### Free Here is the access that is for free: - 25 transactions - Cost basis & capital gains - Error reconciliation - Forum Support ### Hobbyist The hobbyist package has access to the following for $59: - 100 transactions - Cost basis & capital gains - Error reconciliation - Forum Support ### Premium Premium access all for $199: - 1,000 transactions - Cost basis & capital gains - Margin trading - DeFi functionality - Tax summary by wallet - Error reconciliation - Chat support ### Unlimited Unlimited access to different features is each priced individually, so the price may vary, which may include: - Unlimited transactions - Cost basis & capital gains - Margin trading - DeFi functionality - Tax summary by wallet - Concierge support  - Error reconciliation - CPA consultation - Custom features ## Review As we look through CoinTracker features and pricing, we take on our verdicts regarding the services offered and cost. ### Products And Services CoinTracker has lived up to its role of supporting crypto portfolios and 300+ major crypto exchanges and wallets. Tax generation comes in handy and has level-up features for calculating different cost basis accounting methods and downloading the tax report.  ### Pricing The pricing, especially on the unlimited access for the individually priced features. But the good news is either one of the bundles is right enough for you, or you’ll pay for unlimited individual services that would help you to stick within your budget. ### Security CoinTracker has several layers of security for ensuring privacy and having flexible features such as connecting exchanges with Coinbase to your account without providing any private key for access. The two-factor authentication guarantees safe crypto transactions and exchanges with SSL encryption. ### Customer Service For CoinTracker customer support, it provides a few avenues to help through their blogs or posts in their Help Center and FAQs. You can also email them, although you may receive a response after one business day, even with your best efforts to reach them.  Thus, having a Trustpilot rating of 2.9/5 and over 100 reviews. You can try contacting getting more information or contact them through their: - Website - Twitter Official Account - Medium Blog - Github - Cointr  ## Want To Open A CoinTracker Account? To open a CoinTracker account, go to [CoinTracker.io](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/cointracker/) and click on the ‘Get Started’ button. Then you’ll be asked if you have an existing CoinTracker account or sign up using your Google account. You can also provide your email if you don’t want to connect to any of the other options for signing up. Then, you will also be asked to set up your two-factor authentication details for security purposes.  ## Similar Software Applications ### CoinTracking CoinTracking is as popular and reputable as CoinTracker with its 520,000 daily active users and functions as a crypto portfolio manager and tax reporting tool. They have three packages that offer: - Free – generate tax reports, but only through manually creating them in CSV files, accessible for new crypto investors.   - Pro – costs $166/year with discounts for purchases for longer periods for powerful portfolio tracking for advanced inventors. - Unlimited – costs $302/year, where you can save $162 (or 0.016 BTC)if you pay for two years of service in advance. If you’re availing of a lifetime subscription, it will cost you $3459, including full access to CoinTracking for professional investors. It also has security features of data and API encryption and two-factor authentication, and you can restore trade backups. ### CryptoTrader.Tax or CoinLedger CryptoTrader.Tax is now CoinLedger, and you can import historical transactions and integrate them with your other platforms to prepare your tax reports. You can track your crypto portfolio and download your tax report in CSV, IRS Forms, or Tax Filling Software formats. It has also partnered with TurboTax for your crypto gains and losses computations and reports. ### ZenLedger One of its premium features that stands out from the rest of its competitors is providing you with crypto tax professionals, whether tax attorneys, certified public accountants (CPA), or enrolled agents. You can also work with a CPA and give them access to your account: - On the left sidebar, find the ‘Work with CPA’ button. - Then click ‘Invite CPA.’  - Fill in the CPA’s full name and address - An invitation will be sent to the CPA for one to accept the invite and have access to your account instead of giving them all your passwords and private information. ## Bottom line It is important to have a comprehensive overview of the services and offers you’d like to avail in filing your taxes and keeping track of your crypto investments or even NFTs. But basically, you’d like to look for software crypto management tools that are in control of their expertise within their product features and services.  The security features it provides should also not be overlooked as they contain large data of important investments. Want to know more about monetization and bitcoin? Check any of these posts! 1. [Want to Simplify Filing Bitcoin Taxes? Read this.](https://flux.la/want-to-simplify-filing-bitcoin-taxes-read-this/) 2. [How Does Instagram Make Money? 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) 3. [How Does Facebook Make Money? 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Are Deadstock Products And How To Avoid Them? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-are-deadstock-products-and-how-to-avoid-them/ Published: 2022-07-29 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: E-commerce ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line “Deadstock” is a term that describes products unsold, expired, or damaged. There are many reasons why deadstock products exist, but usually, it’s due to a change in the market or an overstock issue.  When you find a deadstock product, you can either sell it or repackage it and sell it as new. They may also be brand-new items that have never been worn or used or can be from the last season or several seasons back.  As a retailer, it’s important to know that you can start selling deadstock products online. All you need is an online store and some inventory in hand.  You can find many different deadstock items online, including shoes, clothing, electronics, and more. “Deadstock” is a term used for inventory products that merchants and retailers fail to sell, decreasing their chances of being sold in the future. These items are usually left in stockrooms and warehouses.  Also, they are not the same as returned goods as they weren’t sold to customers before. It’s a huge problem for other [e-commerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-only-4-reasons-your-e-commerce-site-needs-a-blog/) companies and can cost millions of dollars in lost revenue.  ## What Are the Causes of Deadstock? In most cases, deadstock is caused by a lack of demand for the product. For example, if you’re selling a brand new pair of shoes and they don’t sell after a few weeks, it’s probably because people weren’t interested in them.  If you want to get rid of deadstock, you need to analyze why they aren’t selling. Here are some other causes: ### Low Sales If an item is selling poorly, retailers will sometimes mark down the price to entice more buyers. However, if they still don’t sell, they may be forced to mark them down even further and eventually discontinue them.  ### Bad Quality When customers receive faulty products or find them unsatisfactory, they may return them for replacement or a refund. This creates extra work for staff members and costs money in shipping, repairing, or replacing items.  It also damages customer relationships and can result in lost business if word gets around that you sell poor-quality products or don’t stand behind your warranty promises. ### Poor Marketing Campaign When launching a new product or brand, it’s important to do so with a strong marketing campaign. This includes everything from advertising to influencer marketing and more.  If you’re not marketing your product in a way that appeals to customers, they won’t buy it. So, you’re left with an overabundance of inventory that will eventually lead to deadstock. ### High Competition When there are a lot of sellers in the same niche, it can be difficult to make sales. This is especially true if you are selling a readily available product online. Suppose you have a product that people want, but other sellers sell it at lower prices than yours or offer better service. In that case, you will compete with sellers who are already doing well in the market and are unlikely to let go of their customers easily. ### Changes in Season Another cause of deadstock is when retailers need to change their inventory due to seasonal changes or new collections from manufacturers. For example, suppose cold weather hits and customers suddenly stop buying lightweight clothing items like tank tops and shorts.  Retailers may have no choice but to mark down these items until the next season, and people will start buying them again or until they run out completely. ## What Are the Effects of These Products on Retailers? The rise of Amazon has had a huge impact on the retail industry. Generally, online retailers have changed the way people shop and have made it easier to order almost anything you want.  However, this convenience comes at a cost, as many retailers have closed down after being unable to compete with Amazon’s low prices and a huge selection of products. ### Storage Costs For small [businesses](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2022/05/09/six-considerations-for-building-a-sustainable-business/), the cost of storage can be detrimental. They might have to rent extra space or even buy additional storage units to keep their products in stock. For larger companies, storing dead products isn’t much of an issue because they usually have a lot of excess space. ### Lost Capital and Profit  Another way that deadstock products can hurt your bottom line is by forcing you to spend more money than necessary on inventory management.  If there are too many items in your warehouse because they won’t sell, you have wasted money on buying them. Now, they also have an additional expense of storing them before they can be sold again elsewhere. ## How to Sell Deadstock Products? There are many ways to sell deadstock products. However, the most important thing is that you need to be careful when selling them because they can damage your reputation if they are not in good condition.  Here are some tips on how to sell deadstock products: ### Sell in Clearance Section You can create a new section on your website and label it as “Clearance Section.” Once you’ve created this section, put your deadstock products there.  Additionally, you can even write an article about why these items are on sale and how much they are discounted from their original price. This will help build trust with your customers. Also, they will be more likely to buy from you again in the future if they know that you offer good quality products at reasonable prices! ### Reach out to Deadstock Buyers You can reach them through social media or even phone calls or emails. If someone wants to buy your product, it would be best to contact them personally so that they do not have any doubts about buying from you. ### Sell in Bundles Bundling is an excellent way to increase the value of your current stock. You can bundle together different products and sell them as a set.  This will encourage customers to buy multiple items at once rather than just one or two items. Bundling also encourages customers to spend more money than they initially intended, which means they’re more likely to purchase other products. ## What Are the Best Marketplaces for Selling Deadstock Online? The best marketplaces for selling deadstock online are eBay, [Etsy](https://gizmodo.com/etsy-sellers-are-striking-over-transaction-fee-hikes-1848728930), and Amazon. These sites offer the most exposure to buyers and the highest commissions for sellers. ### 1\. Amazon It’s also possible to sell deadstock items on [Amazon](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/), but there are restrictions on what Amazon can sell.  For example, if you’re selling shoes and the box has been opened or damaged, you shouldn’t include them in your listing because they might not be allowed by their guidelines. ### 2\. Etsy [Etsy](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/) has a reputation for being a marketplace for creative sellers, but it’s also a great place to sell deadstock. With Etsy, you can set your price and choose whether or not to offer buyers shipping discounts, returns, or payment plans.  ### 3\. eBay eBay is the world’s largest marketplace, and it’s easy to see why. With eBay, you can sell anything: from clothes to collectibles. If you have a product that people want, eBay is ideal for selling it. ## Tips to Avoid Deadstock  Now that you’ve learned the causes and effects of deadstock, the next thing to do is avoid them. Here’s a list of how to do it: ### Give Away Coupons Deadstock products are products that have been in storage for a long time. They are old and have been in the warehouse for too long. Deadstock products may not have defects, but they are not of the best quality. They can be sold at a discount or given away to help you get rid of them. ### Offer Free Shipping Vouchers  By offering free shipping vouchers, your customers will be more likely to spend more money with you and less likely to abandon their carts before checkout. This will help you avoid deadstock products because it means fewer returns and exchanges! ### Have Discounts on Deadstock Products Offering free shipping vouchers is one way to encourage customers to buy from you instead of from other sites. This will decrease the deadstock products in your inventory because more people will be willing to purchase from you instead of waiting for the product to be sold elsewhere. ### Know Your Prices Some sellers try to sell deadstock items at a higher price than they should be selling them for. For example, you should not list an item as $100 when it should be selling for $50-$60. ## Take Control of Your Products If you’re a retailer or wholesaler, deadstock is a major issue. Because you’re buying in bulk, it’s easy for a few items to be damaged or simply not sold. The good news is that there are ways to scale back the amount of deadstock you have in stock. You can do this by taking control of the process and managing your inventory. Click [HERE](https://alejandrorioja.com/) to learn more about other services and information that can help you in your selling journey. Let me know in the comment section if you want any other topics covered! Found this blog informative? Check out our other blog to learn more! - [Simple Amazon SEO Guide for 2022: Crack the Algorithm](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/) - [E-Commerce Marketing Guide for 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/e-commerce-marketing-guide-for-2022/) - [How to Start a Million Dollar eCommerce Business in 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Three Easy Ways To Unlock Your Snapchat Account Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/three-easy-ways-to-unlock-your-snapchat-account/ Published: 2022-07-21 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: But just like any other social media platform, there are certain rules and community guidelines that you must follow in using Snapchat. Failure to stick to it can result in your account being permanently or temporarily locked or suspended. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The digital era has revolutionized storytelling. Through Snapchat, people can share updates about their life easily with friends, and people love it.  But just like any other social media platform, there are certain rules and community guidelines that you must follow in using Snapchat. Failure to stick to it can result in your account being permanently or temporarily locked or suspended.  If your account gets locked, you might want to trace your activities and remember if you have done something against their rules. Visit Snapchat’s unlock page or contact their customer support team. But if you’re lucky enough, you can just reinstall the app.  Snapchat’s growing popularity on the internet, especially among teens, has been evident through the years. The app’s users check their accounts [30 times](https://www.forbes.com/sites/tommybeer/2021/10/14/more-than-1-in-3-teens-say-snapchat-is-their-favorite-social-media-app-only-2-cite-facebook-survey-finds/?sh=e71e41858a97) daily. With this, It is safe to say that it has been one of today’s most-loved social media platforms. The application aims to allow users to share their life, empower them and express themselves. With its video sharing and messaging features, [Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) serves as the 21st-century diary of individuals, and some make [money](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) out of it too! That’s why If you’ve ever been locked out of your Snapchat account, I know how frustrating it can be. But don’t worry. I’ll make searching for ways online easier for you, and you’ll be snapping away in no time! Let me walk you through three methods for unlocking your Snapchat account. Here are a few easy steps to regain your access and get back to sending snaps.  ## Why Your Account Was Locked  Before everything else, you must first find out why your account may have been locked.  If you are confused about why Snapchat took away access to your account, try recalling some of the activities you’ve done back when you could still open it.  ### You Went Against Community Guidelines [Community guidelines](https://www.internetmatters.org/connecting-safely-online/advice-for-parents/tackling-the-hard-stuff-on-social-media-to-support-young-people/understanding-community-guidelines/) ensure a safe social media platform environment that protects users’ rights and security. It is a set of rules that create a behavioral standard that individuals must agree to follow before creating an account on any [social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) application.  Violating these rules can result in consequences like suspension or your account being deleted or locked. On Snapchat, some of the guidelines include limiting the following: - Illegal Content - Hate Speech and Terrorism - Threats, Harm, and Violence  - Sexual Content and Harassment  - Bullying, Impersonation, and Fake News If you committed an infraction on any of these rules, then it may be why your account was locked.   ### Snapchat Detected Suspicious Activities  Another reason why Snapchat took away your access is maybe they detected some suspicious activities in your account. Some examples of these acts include spamming, manipulating content, or sending several friend requests to different users in a short period.  Remember to be mindful of your actions on this platform to avoid complications in your account. Practicing discipline and moderation in using the application would be best. Doing so is like hitting two birds with one stone.  Not only do you save yourself from the hassles. But you also contribute to maintaining order in the social media community.  ### Did You Log In A Banned Device? If yes, it may cause your account to be locked. Snapchat has the right to remove your access if you have logged your account on a banned device. They do this in serious cases if a user violates Snapchat’s community guidelines or terms of service.  Note that those whose accounts are terminated are not allowed to create new ones. So try your best to remember if there’s any possibility that you have logged in to a prohibited device.  ### Using Plugins Or Third-Party Apps Are you using third-party apps or plugins to access Snapchat and its services? If so, you better uninstall them already.  Third-party apps are software applications created by other parties outside a device’s operating system or manufacturer. Meanwhile, plugins are additional software installed on a program that may enhance its performance and capabilities.  These applications and other abusive behaviors that Snapchat can detect could permanently lock your account.  ## Locked Account Categories While Snapchat may be able to lock your account, they do so depending on the situation and the violation. There are three categories of a locked account, and they are as follows:  1. Permanently Locked. If your account falls into this category, unfortunately, the Snapchat support team can’t unlock it for you. You’ll know that your account is permanently locked when you attempt to log in and receive a notification saying the team will not be able to unlock it for you. If this happens, it’s time to create a new one.  2. Temporarily Locked. You’ll likely know that your account has been temporarily locked when you receive a message saying you must wait 24 hours before trying to sign in again. Be cautious about any step you’ll take to avoid adding more damage to the situation or, worse, getting your account permanently locked.  3. Your Account Was Compromised. Snapchat ensures the safety of its user. That is why when they suspect an account’s security has been interrupted, they lock it to protect the user.  ## Unlocking Your Account In Three Ways  I understand how it can be dispiriting to face the possibility of not just being able to share life updates. But also being unable to look back on your archived snaps.  After all, Snapchat is like your digital memoir, where you can relive any significant moment of your life. But if it all goes down to you, prohibited to sending snaps, don’t fret. Here are three easy tips and tricks to unlock your Snapchat account.  ### 1\. Reinstall The Application From Your Phone Deleting and reinstalling the Snapchat application if you have been notified that your account is locked is more like a standard operating procedure. It can be the first thing you must consider doing.  If you do this, you could also delete any data that may be causing your account to be locked. But remember that it can only work in limited circumstances. Reinstalling the application may not work if Snapchat suspends your account due to suspicions that you have violated their terms and community guidelines. So if you think you have breached their rules, you might need to consider taking different steps for your account.  ### 2\. Use Snapchat’s Unlock Site Yes, Snapchat allows its users to unlock their accounts through their website, [https://accounts.snapchat.com/accounts/unlock](https://accounts.snapchat.com/accounts/unlock). Remember that this option only works for those who are temporarily banned from opening their accounts.  Once you are on the website, you must enter your email address and password. Don’t forget to tick “I am not a robot” to verify your identity.  After that, you can now press the log-in button and click on the “Unlock” option to get your account back. You’ll receive a notification if you are already allowed to open it, given that your banning time has sufficiently passed.  If you have committed major offenses, you might have to wait until 24 hours. ### 3\. Reach Out to the Snapchat Support Team  The last thing that you might resort to is contacting the Snapchat support team. It’s easy communicating with them through this link: [https://support.snapchat.com/en-US/i-need-help](https://support.snapchat.com/en-US/i-need-help). By clicking the link, you will be asked about your concern, and you just have to tap or click the “I can’t access my account” choice. Another set of options will appear on your screen, asking you to tell more about your Snapchat situation.  Choose whether “I think my account was hacked” or “My account was locked,” depending on your account situation. After that, a question will be displayed again, asking if you need help with something else.  Press “yes” so Snapchat can direct you to a form you must fill with your username, phone number, and email. It would also be best to type in a message explaining and detailing your situation more.  After accomplishing all of these steps, tap or click the send button and wait for Snapchat’s response.  ## Prevent This Incident From Happening  Have you tried the steps mentioned earlier? If it worked for you, then congratulations! But you are now responsible for preventing your account from being locked again. ### Use A Strong Password Start using a [strong password](https://cybernews.com/best-password-managers/how-to-create-a-strong-password/) for your Snapchat account to avoid potential hackers. A good one is about 12 characters long, with uppercase and lowercase letters, special characters, and numbers.  Generally, a password may also be harder to crack if each character is unique. You must also remember that the longer it is, the better.  Also, it would be best not to set a password related to your personal information. Try not to repeat passwords on your other accounts as well.  ### Follow Snapchat Rules And Regulations Another tip, which may be the most basic, is to strictly abide by Snapchat’s terms, rules, and community guidelines.  Once you have entered the platform, you must practice social media etiquette and be a kinder person online. You are responsible for your actions, so remember that resorting to negative behaviors has consequences.  In fact, you may be held liable by Snapchat by restricting your account. ### Ensure That Your Phone Number And Email Address Are Verified Keep your phone number and email address updated and verified. In this way, Snapchat can identify you and give you the necessary protection they have for their users.  Additionally, Snapchat may view you as a genuine and trustworthy individual on the platform.  ## Where this leaves us Reading notifications that your account was locked may be bothersome, especially if Snapchat has been your go-to online life journal.  But the application has made it easier for you through their site and support team. You won’t have so much to worry about, except if you have committed serious violations that will disallow you to create a new one.  Remember to adhere to their community standards and protect your identity to prevent your account from being locked.  Got hooked on this post? Check out more articles that I have written about social media platforms: - [How Social Media Can Help Your Business Grow?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-social-media-can-help-your-business-grow/) - [How To Download Facebook Videos To Your Computer?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/) - [How To Contact Instagram Support 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 Snapchat is smaller but still real in 2026: ~422M daily actives (Snap Q4 2025), heavily skewed toward 13–24. The "make money on Snapchat" answer evolved — **Spotlight** is now the primary creator-monetization surface (replaced Discover for most independents in 2024). Snapchat+ subscription ($3.99/mo) crossed 11M subscribers by early 2025; some creator perks gate behind it. Account unlock flows didn't change much; the temporary lock still resolves in 24–48h via Settings → Help. The "permanently locked" path now triggers an automated review via Snap's Support form within ~7 days — markedly faster than the manual-only process described in older guides. --- ## Facebook Temporarily Locked? Here’s How To Fix It Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-temporarily-locked-heres-how-to-fix-it/ Published: 2022-07-19 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Generally, Facebook is the world’s largest social network, with more than 2 billion users and growing. But despite its popularity and its massive numbers, Facebook still has problems. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Having your account locked, even for a few hours, can be frustrating whether you use Facebook socially or for business purposes. Recently many users are reporting that their Facebook account has been temporarily locked, and they can’t log in to their account or access their messages or notifications. Fortunately, this article will help you to fix the problem if your Facebook account has been temporarily locked. So, continue reading to learn more. Is your Facebook account locked temporarily? If so, then I know how frustrating the experience can be. You want to use Facebook but can’t because it has been locked. Generally, Facebook is the world’s largest social network, with more than 2 billion users and growing. But despite its popularity and its massive numbers, Facebook still has problems.  When you’re trying to share something on Facebook, and it suddenly locks you out of your account, it can be frustrating—but it’s also confusing. What went wrong? How do you fix it? In this guide, I will show you how to fix your account when Facebook temporarily locks it. ## What You Need To Know If Your Account Gets Locked by Facebook Facebook comes with very specific [security measures](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ygrauer/2017/01/26/u2f-security-key-facebook-yubico-yubikey/?sh=36309dea49d1) that help block spammers and hackers from the app that harass users. As a popular platform, this helps protect their clientele by protecting their privacy while using the platform and any data they may choose to share there.  However, those same security measures may sometimes work against authentic users as well by temporarily locking them out of their accounts. So, if you’re experiencing this, don’t worry, you’re not alone. In fact, several users worldwide have reported similar issues. ### Check for Messages The first thing you need to do is check your phone’s text message or message thread for any messages from the Facebook security team. You will see a message saying that your account has been temporarily locked due to suspicious activity or a violation of our Terms of Service. If there are no messages from the Facebook security team, try logging into an alternate email address (like Gmail) and see if that works. If it does, you need to wait until the next day before trying again since the system may be working through those emails to investigate what happened with your account. ### Turn on Two-Factor Authentication If you still cannot log into your account, try turning on two-factor authentication (2FA) for added protection against hackers trying to gain access through stolen passwords or other means. ## How To Fix When Your Facebook Account Is Temporarily Locked When you try to log into Facebook and get a message that says, “Your account is temporarily locked,” don’t panic. This is a security feature that Facebook uses to ensure the person trying to log in is who they say they are. If your account has been hacked, this should be the first step you take. You may have fallen victim to a phishing scam where someone snagged your password or used an authenticator app instead of SMS verification. So, it’s smart to act quickly if this happens before they can do any damage. However, if there’s no clear reason why it was locked in the first place (like an unusual login attempt), just wait 24 hours before trying again. Once 24 hours have passed, check if there’s anything suspicious about your device—if not, try logging in again and see if it still won’t work for some reason. ### 1\. Check Your Email For A Message From Facebook If you’ve received a message from Facebook, it may be a notification of your account’s temporary lock. If so, read the message and click on the link to unblock your account. When you haven’t received a message from Facebook, check all of your email inboxes for messages. Also, check your spam and junk folders for these messages. If there are no messages for you, visit [https://www.facebook.com/help/contact\_us](https://www.facebook.com/help/contact_us) and submit a request there so they can help troubleshoot the issue. ### 2\. Wait For Facebook To Unlock It The most common reasons for a temporary lock are: 1. You haven’t used your account in a while. If you’ve been away from Facebook for more than 14 days, it will automatically lock your account until you log in again and reset the timer. 2. Your account was hacked or compromised by someone trying to access sensitive information like credit card details, passwords, etc. As a precautionary measure, Facebook temporarily locks the accounts of those affected by this breach until they can confirm their identity with a code sent via SMS or email. ### 3\. Change Your Password & Update Your Security Info Change your password to something unique. If you use the same password for every website and app you have an account with, then changing one password will be enough to unlock all of them.  Additionally, if you want a more secure online experience overall: 1\. Consider creating strong passwords with different letters (both capital and lowercase), numbers (at least one), and special characters such as exclamation points or question marks in random order. 2\. Update your security info. 3\. Consider getting a [secure password manager](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/) to help you keep track of your passwords. It’s also important to ensure that all of the information provided by Facebook when they first created your account still matches what they currently have on file.  Suppose there are any discrepancies between these two lists. In that case, you may even find multiple email addresses associated with each other—then simply delete them so that everything is in order before proceeding further through this process.  You’ll also want to ensure there isn’t any incorrect information about yourself. If incorrect info is listed under “security questions,” then don’t hesitate for even one second before making corrections where needed. Additionally, if you were locked out because you might have sent out too many friend requests, you could [cancel all pending friend requests](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-cancel-all-pending-friend-requests-on-facebook/) once you’re back online. ### 4\. Wait Another Couple of Days If you’re still locked out after a couple of days, it’s likely that the issue is on Facebook’s end and not yours. You could try checking your IP address with a tool like [WhatIsMyIPAddress.com](http://whatismyipaddress.com) or checking if your browser’s cache has anything to do with the problem. Otherwise, there isn’t much else to do except wait until the site unlocks itself again—which might take several days. It would help if you also read about how to [make sure that your Facebook is as secure](https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-make-facebook-as-secure-as-possible-2015-7) as possible. ## Why is my Facebook Account Temporarily Locked?  If you’re having trouble logging into Facebook, here are some reasons why this may have happened: - Facebook suspects that your account has been hacked - You shared your password with someone else or clicked on a suspicious link - You shared personal information with someone who shouldn’t have access to it or used a fake name when creating an account - Facebook noticed unusual activity on your profile and needed to investigate this further before letting you back in again Additionally, if you tried logging into your account too many times and got blocked, you might want to consider [changing your Facebook name](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/) or password. ## Wrapping Up! And there you have it! For many people, Facebook serves as their primary means of communication and business operations. So when they’re locked out of their account, this can be a little more than stressful.  With these tips and tricks, you will be able to solve your problem of Facebook temporarily being locked in no time. You can get it done manually or by using one of the mentioned tools. The choice is yours! Did you learn something useful from this post? Here are similar articles I’ve written on Facebook-related issues that you might find useful. - [How To Avoid Facebook Jail: All the Dos and Don’ts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-avoid-facebook-jail/) - [How To Deactivate Or Delete Facebook And Messenger](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) - [Get Verified on Facebook: Page or Profile (Blue + Gray Verification Badge) for FREE](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) Share your comments and suggestions on what else you want to learn about in the comments section below. Don’t forget to spread the word to friends about handling Facebook account issues. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Marketing Myopia: One Of The Reasons Businesses Fail Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/marketing-myopia-one-of-the-reasons-businesses-fail/ Published: 2022-07-18 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Marketing myopia is a daily reminder of your company’s risks. It is important to listen carefully to your target audience’s needs. In this way, you can ensure that you are on track to provide them with the service or product they desire.  Remember, your customers are the fuel to your company. Without them, your business will collapse.  Ultimately, the key word here is: adapting.  The most important characteristic that you should have as a business is your flexibility to attune to the world’s changes. Yes, trends are important. But it would be best if you use it as an inspiration for your long-term marketing goals. I can say that it is all about your mindset–the perspective you have for your company. If you set your business to follow its goals and consumers strictly, then there’s a good chance you will stay on the right track. If you want your business to stay in the competitive market, you must remember this: It’s not always about sales. You have to prioritize your customer’s needs.  Although improving sales is one of the main objectives of any company, you have to consider what your target market wants. After all, they will be the drivers that will keep your company in the limelight.  Most companies become too blinded by acquiring profits and quick results without thinking of long-term goals and strategies. When this happens, you might fall into what marketers call marketing myopia. This phenomenon happens when business owners do not adapt to a futuristic mindset for their company. Sure, caring about the present events and [trends](https://www.newsweek.com/10-trends-that-will-reshape-marketing-industry-2022-1678518) is important to keep your company in its game.  But you might want to believe me when I say that you must also consider possible changes years or decades from now that may affect your company. Even your [marketing consultant](https://alejandrorioja.com/12-ways-a-digital-marketing-consultant-can-help-grow-your-business/) is aware of this.  ## All About Marketing Myopia Marketing myopia is when businesses can’t see their target audience and the alternatives that other competitors can offer to them. To give you a clearer look into this marketing concept, take yourself back to the 90s when film cameras were still a trend and the only tool available for photography.  [Film camera companies](https://www.forbes.com/sites/chunkamui/2012/01/18/how-kodak-failed/?sh=1e71f7566f27) impressively peaked, but some brands did not anticipate the rise of digital cameras years after. It is a classic example of marketing myopia.  As a camera company, it would have mattered if you had explored what customers might want in the future; and aligned your products according to what they wanted.  Ultimately, no one can predict the future. But with proper research, brand recognition, and strong ears for your customers, you can save yourself from this myopia.  ## How It Started  The idea of marketing myopia came to life in 1960 when former Harvard Marketing Professor Theodore Levitt used the term in his article. He urged business owners to switch marketing perspectives from product to customer orientation.  Levitt emphasized that businesses do have their way of losing sight of the big picture. So it is important to always look after your customers because your company won’t work without them. ### The Self-Deceiving Cycle Professor Levitt also discussed the so-called self-deceiving cycle in his article. It talks about how businesses can fall into the myopia trap.  Generally, it discusses the following points: 1. Being too concerned and reliant on production and lowering manufacturing costs can blindside you to the real goal of listening to customers. 2. Sticking with proven and tested products that have existed for years can make you forget the importance of exploring new ideas and materials. 3. Even if you are a well-established business offering the most loved products of today, don’t be overconfident that other competitors can’t beat your offers. ## Other Causes Aside from the key points mentioned in the self-deceiving cycle, many other causes may push you to be stuck in the marketing myopia concept. ### Pressure From CEOs and Shareholders  Are you an employee pressured by his bosses to create positive results from your marketing strategies? Possibly, there was a time when making operations, and marketing decisions was a headache for you.  The pressure from the executives could lead you to implement actions that are not thought out thoroughly with time. Sometimes it may lead you to resort to short-term and band-aid solutions.  When this happens, you are already engaging in marketing myopia. It is important to communicate effectively with the higher-ups and be transparent about your marketing plans.  ### Inability To Keep Up Digitally Remember, everything is continuously changing, especially in today’s digital age. Even [marketing methods](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) have been evolving! That’s why businesses need to keep pace with digital trends. Companies that can’t keep up with the use of technology are more likely to experience marketing myopia.  You must adjust to a mindset that foresees your business to grow using digital methods. It would also be helpful to prepare plans on how to stick with the changes it brings.  Stay in the competitive market and ensure that your company strategies are up-to-date.  ### Forgetting Your Company Goals  Most businesses that do not stick to their company’s core are most likely to be pinned down to marketing myopia. Your company goals and your objectives for your customers are the foundation for your long-term operations.  Generally, your company’s goals will dictate what’s going to be your long-term strategies. So you must keep them in mind and use them as your strongest point to level up your marketing approaches.  ## Avoiding Marketing Myopia Whether you are a marketing [beginner](https://alejandrorioja.com/ultimate-digital-marketing-guide-for-beginners/) or not, a starting business or a large company, it is essential that you know how to avoid marketing myopia. Doing so can save your company from potential losses.  Here are some ways you can do to steer away from this marketing trap:  - Be updated with the trends and use them in curating long-term strategies - Prioritize your customer - Perform detailed and thorough market research  - Explore creative marketing strategies  The most important thing to do? Create a hungry mindset for innovations and customer relations. In today’s digitized world, it is fair to say that everyone relies on technology, and your customers are already considered digital natives.  ## Marketing Myopia Today  Although marketing myopia has been known since the 60s, it is still applicable today. There are still some industries and brands that can fall into the trap. For instance, publishing industries are transitioning to myopia if they do not adapt to digitized methods. It is essential that they ask themselves about what they cover as a publishing company. Is your publishing limited to papers, books, and magazines? Or do you already have a plan to jumpstart digitizing your content?  Thinking outside the box and being creative in your marketing strategies while prioritizing long-term goals can help you conquer marketing myopia.  ## The Future With Marketing Myopia  Marketing myopia will still exist if businesses continue to be production and sales-centered. As time passes, customer demands change as well.  So your product and manufacturing methods will not matter if it is not parallel to the needs and preferences of the customers. If you don’t have a contingency plan and the motivation to keep up with the modern world’s demands, expect to see marketing myopia on the other end in the future.  Add strategic planning of backup methods and systems to your marketing efforts. Perhaps you can power through marketing myopia and save your company from nuisances and losses.  ## Wrapping It Up Now that you know that certain marketing myopia exists, maybe it’s time to rethink your marketing strategies.  Are you on the right track? Do you prioritize consumer demands more? If not, then you must start reangling your marketing efforts.  Conquering myopia can be a challenge, especially since no one knows what changes can happen in the future. Certainly, it is easier said than done. But starting in small steps by revisiting your company’s operations and approaches is a good start to lessen your chances of experiencing marketing myopia.  Of course, focusing on sales and profits is normal. But if you want to be in the industry for a longer time, you have to think beyond the money you’ll earn.  Remember, it all lies in your perspective. Always look at the bigger picture and pay attention to your customers.  Liked this post? Read more articles that I have written about marketing:   - [7 Types Of Visual Content You Need To Use In Your Marketing Campaigns](https://alejandrorioja.com/visual-content-for-your-marketing-campaigns/) - [The Best Growth Marketing Techniques: Benefits & Tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-best-growth-hacking-marketing-techniques/) - [Understanding The Basics Of Demand Generation Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/demand-generation-marketing/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Who Viewed Your Instagram Account? Everything You Need To Know Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-check-who-visits-your-instagram-account/ Published: 2022-07-08 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: There is no built-in way to find out who viewed your Instagram profile, but there are still a few simple ways to find out, like going through your Instagram stories. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line There is no built-in way to find out who viewed your Instagram profile, but there are still a few simple ways to find out, like going through your Instagram stories. Instagram never built out a proper analytics platform that will give you all the information you want and need.  But whatever you do, please don’t use any sketchy third-party apps. They’re totally unreliable, and their mere existence creates many technical problems for Instagram’s servers––which could lead to them being blocked completely. Like other [social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/9-social-media-metrics-all-marketers-should-measure/) platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat, Instagram has also become integral to our daily lives. It’s no surprise that more and more users are beginning to feel like they must follow their friends on Instagram to stay connected.  While this is a good thing in many ways, it can make your life a little more complicated. You might be asking: Can you see who views my Instagram profile?  I wrote this guide to walk you through the process of finding out who views your profile, whether it’s for entertainment or information. ## All About Instagram Instagram is a picture-sharing application allowing millions of users to post and share images with friends and family. The app is free of charge. Instagram users are also given the option to share their photographs through social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Taking pictures on Instagram is fun, easy, and convenient.  Pick the app up from your phone’s app store, or visit instagram.com on your computer. Then, take a snapshot of your experience and share it with your friends! ## Can You See Who Views Your Instagram Profile? There’s no built-in feature on Instagram to check who viewed your account. This can also affect the engagement level, and it’s one of the primary reasons why Instagram doesn’t share this data with users. Generally, Instagram won’t share the data you need to know who viewed your profile. Users who spend a significant amount of time just checking out other profiles may drop off the platform if Instagram reveals this information.  This data may affect not only the engagement levels of these users and the number of ads they consume. The users have complete control over their privacy; therefore, not all information associated with their profiles will be shared.  However, there is a way to find out who views your profile. Several third-party apps claim that they can track who viewed your Instagram account. But do they work properly? Keep on reading to find out. ## Third-Party Apps To Check Who Viewed Your Instagram Profile ​So are there any third-party apps you could use to see who viewed your Instagram profile? You bet!  There are a plethora of these apps available on the App Store and Google Play that will help you find out who views your Instagram profile and even “stalk” them.  But the question is, does it function as it claims? The answer is no. Take a look at these third-party apps anyway. ### Profile+ The main problem here is that Profile+ doesn’t work properly. It won’t show you who has viewed your profile, even though the official Instagram app does. On top of that, you have to pay for features that aren’t needed.  We recently searched for an Instagram profile info app that works, but there were only scams meant to make you pay for system app features like “who viewed my Instagram profile.” This app shows a list of users you’ve blocked on Instagram. ### Follower Analyzer Follower Analyzer is another app that claims to show you who views your Instagram profile, even going as far as telling you when they scroll through your profile. It is a fake app that promises to help you figure out who your stalkers are, but it doesn’t work! They only show lists of random usernames, so you feel like you’re doing something. Additionally, this app might be hacked and collect all your Instagram data and give them access. They can even ban your account with these apps. ### SocialView It looks like SocialView for Instagram is one of the best iPhone apps that claim they can show you who viewed your Instagram profile.  But its performance has left many users questioning whether it supports all Instagram profiles or just a few (which seems to be the case). The app has some interesting features, but even though you can see other users’ Instagram stories, the app does not function as it claims. ## Why Are Third-Party Apps A Scam? The main reasons third-party apps don’t work include Instagram’s data policy, which won’t let you access their data. This means that the only way to see exactly what people see on your Instagram profile is if you follow them or their friends.  If Instagram does not approve the [apps](https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-find-contacts-on-instagram) you are trying to use and they do not meet Instagram’s data sharing policy, they will not be able to access your profile. You can only see who viewed your profile if you’ve used a third-party app or website (like Graph API) that Instagram has approved to access your data. Instagram has a data policy stating that it won’t share your full account information, while the platform doesn’t allow third-party apps to access this information either.  ## How to Know Who Viewed Your Instagram? Here are some ways and tips to let you know who viewed your Instagram profile. ### Instagram Story You’re probably familiar with the Instagram story feature. Generally, you can use it to post photos and videos to your account, which is live for 24 hours before disappearing. It is a great way to check who viewed your profile. 1. To post a [story](https://www.businessinsider.com/download-instagram-reels), tap on your profile picture and the camera icon. This lets you add photos or videos to your story.   2. Next, take a photo or upload one from your gallery or phone.  3. Some people’s favorite way to see who’s seen their story is by looking at the folks who viewed your story in the last hour or so. You can also see your top viewers, who have previously viewed and liked your story. 4. The number of people who’ve viewed your Instagram stories within 24 hours after posting is what you can use to gauge how many people are reading your latest posts. 5. If you notice that someone is following your account but isn’t following you or your friends, they might be stalking you. They could also be a bot trying to collect information about you for their purpose or could be a person trying to stalk you. ### Instagram Highlights If you have the Highlights feature enabled, you can also see who’s been following and liking your Instagram posts. You can see who’s visited your profile, liked or commented on a post, or interacted with a post by clicking “On This Post.”  You can filter through it to see the most recent activity from users who have interacted with your account somehow. The Highlights area of Instagram is where you decide who gets to see your most recent photos.  For example, if you want people to know that you’ve logged in over the day, you can add a story highlighting what time it is. ### Instagram Business Account With an [Instagram](https://www.businessinsider.com/instagram-testing-several-features-to-pay-creators-money-2021-6) business account, you get access to additional demographic data about fans who visit your page and insights on how they interact with it. Business accounts offer real-time insights into the behavior of your website visitors, who are anonymous and will remain that way unless they choose to share their information.  This account type is perfect for small businesses with a few hundred visitors to their site who just want to track basic visitor trends. ## How To Make Your Instagram Account Private? If you want to keep your account open for your friends, but don’t want strangers to see it, then you can make your Instagram profile private. Private profiles can prevent people from seeing certain information about a person and their account. People who want the complete experience of using Instagram may want to make their profiles public so everyone can see them and comment on posts. Suppose you’re tired of unsolicited [followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/tips-to-get-more-instagram-followers/) and disturbing messages. In that case, the best way to ensure that the people you follow stay respectful is by turning your Instagram profile into a private one.  This will mean that all your followers need to request access to your posts before they can see them. Over the past few years, it’s become popular to switch from public profiles to private so users can better control their privacy.  Here’s what you need to do. -  Click on settings -  Navigate to the ‘Privacy and Safety section -  Select from the ‘Private Account’ option. Doing so will make it so that your profile becomes limited access for anyone except those following you. Once you have converted your Instagram profile to a private one, you can easily delete all the public posts on this account and set your profile as private instead.  There will be no change in your followers, as Instagram doesn’t let you edit user details like username, profile picture, or bio while converting to a private account. ## Bottom line So, if you belong to the users who have been wondering whether you can see who viewed your Instagram profile, you can’t.   Instagram knows who’s viewed your Instagram profile, but you don’t. This topic is closed.  If you find this article helpful for you, you may want to read these also: - [Top 13 Tips To Get More Instagram Followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/tips-to-get-more-instagram-followers/) - [Top 14 Tips For Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) - [Verify your Instagram account – IG Help](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/) You may share this with your friends and loved ones to know the best tips for their business. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## A Complete Guide To Nansen.ai And Its Features Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/a-complete-guide-to-nansen-ai-and-its-features/ Published: 2022-07-07 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: SEO TL;DR: One of the best features of Nanse.ai is allowing careful analyses and monitoring of more than 70M labeled wallets. This allows all users to fully understand the context they need about stable coins, Ethereum, and tokens. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Now that on-chain data is trending and consistently becoming famous, it’s time to use applications that enable easy tracking of wallets and funds to prevent scams and fraud. With the birth of Nansen.ai came the limitless possibility of tracking Ethereum on-chain information, improving its accessibility for everyone.  Nansen.ai is an online platform you can use to analyze wallet labels, on-chain data points, and other useful entities that can help you determine worthy NFT projects you can invest in.  Because on-chain data comprise complex numbers in a long and technical chain, I honestly find it challenging and confusing to fit them into the context of the real world. With this, we need software and applications like [Nansen](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/nansen/) to help us understand on-chain data further to take advantage of its opportunities.  Thanks to Nansen.ai, Etherium on-chain data is now made more accessible for everyone, especially for traders and large-scale companies. This application allows careful analyses of wallet labels, on-chain data points, and several entities presented on the dashboard without requiring technical knowledge.  In addition, [Nansen.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/nansen/) also serves as a consultation software where traders can consult before making investments, preventing losses and allowing more profit. In this blog, let’s learn about Nansen.ai and its future in the world of on-chain data and [wallet](https://alejandrorioja.com/venmo-review/) databases.  ## What is Nansen.ai? [Nansen](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/nansen/) is an innovative way to analyze data from the crypto ecosystem. The on-chain information combined with millions of wallet labels makes it possible to see patterns and act upon them in real-time. Additionally, Nansen allows traders to easily access their data through user-friendly dashboards, APIs, or direct SQL queries.  In simple words, Nansn.ai serves as insider information about [NFTs](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-and-market-a-non-fungible-token/) and other on-chain data, allowing you to understand it better. Since its creation in 2019, Nansen.ai has been the trusted analytics and data provider for Ethereum.  ## Key Features of Nansen.ai [Nansen.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/nansen/) contains unique features that distinguish it from similar software and applications. Additionally, these features are exclusively created by the team of professionals in Nansen, so you cannot expect to encounter them with its competitors. Check them out below.  ### Track Flow of Funds One of the best features of Nanse.ai is allowing careful analyses and monitoring of more than 70M labeled wallets. This allows all users to fully understand the context they need about stable coins, Ethereum, and tokens. Tracking the flow of funds also allows you to get an executive summary of how your funds are moving.  Additionally, if you love the attention to keen details, Nanse.ai allows transaction tracing down to the granular level.  ### Monitor Token Traction When investing in cryptocurrencies and NFTs, monitoring everything is important to prevent mishaps and unlikely errors that can cost you losses. [Nansen.ai](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/nansen/) allows careful tracking of token teams, exchanges, and funds. This lets its users precisely see which specific entities are moving or accumulating or which specific token is selling.  In addition, your dashboard on Nansen.ai also allows you to track token metrics on engagement, usage, and liquidity. These metrics can help you make informed decisions when looking to invest in a brand-new token.  ### Analyze Anonymous Address A special feature of Nansen.ai is being able to analyze anonymous addresses, allowing access to various tools. These tools are indeed helpful in enabling safe navigation across different wallets.  ## How It Works Nansen.ai has been used in various NFT research. This allows more users to find more projects for minting, smart money following, and determining how strong or weak a certain NFT project is. You will be directed to the application’s home page upon logging in. Click the “More” button on your screen’s upper right-hand corner, select NFT, then click NFT Paradise.  ### Market Overview  The Market Overview shows you the market caps and volume during the last 24 hours. You can also see the top 10 NFT projects and their current performance and volume. Basically, the market overview serves as a chart that allows you to determine what’s currently hot and trending and what’s not.  ### Overall Profit Leaderboard The overall profit leaderboard lists all current addresses and ranks them based on the number of profits generated. Viewing the leaderboard allows you to determine how certain collectors are performing on a daily basis.  ### Smart Money Buys  Smart Money Buys gives you a real-time update of what current buyers are looking for and buying in the market. During this time, what’s happening is already more than minting. So, you can see what they are actually buying, what projects are currently being bought, and in what volume buyers are buying.  ## Nansen.ai Price Points  Should you want to try out and see the dashboard overview of Nansen.ai, you can subscribe to the Lite plan. It’s free and allows you to utilize the following features: 1. Access to look at the dashboard 2. Stablecoin Master 3. 5 Watchlist items 4. NFT Indexes 5. NFT Paradise with trends and overview tab However, if you are willing to pay, you can choose among the three plans Nansen.ai offers. This includes Standard, VIP, and Alpha. Additionally, you can enjoy a 10% promotional discount when you purchase the plans at their quarterly rates and up to 22% at their yearly rates. ### Standard  [Priced at $149](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/nansen/) a month, the Standard plan allows dashboard accessibility with current on-chain data, allowing subscribers to monitor real-time events on the blockchain. The following are its features: 1. NFT dashboards 2. Token God Made 3. Smart Money 4. Wallet Profiler 5. Stablecoin Master 6. ETH Tracker 7. DEX Trades 8. 3 Custom Smart Alerts 9. Several supported chains ### VIP  The VIP plan is priced at $1490 monthly, and it unlocks Nansen’s powerful dashboards while gaining access to several features you can customize. Aside from that, you get all features in the Standard plan plus the below: 1. Early access to new and updated features 2. Downloadable CSV Data 3. Filters 4. Hot Contracts 5. 100 Custom Smart Alerts ### Alpha  [Nansen’s Alpha plan](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/nansen/) is the most expensive, priced at $3,000 monthly. However, you can only subscribe to this plan when you avail of the quarterly and yearly rates. With the Alpha plan, you can follow and monitor smart money in real-time and join a private community simultaneously. This community lets you interact with some of crypto’s most prominent investors.  You can enjoy all the features in the VIP plan plus the following: 1. Join a private discord community 2. War room calls 3. Exclusive reports and insights 4. Free workshops on various topics of interest 5. Introductions to different early-stage projects ## Nansen.ai Advantages  The advantages of Nansen.ai are pretty straightforward. It’s a unique application that allows proper analyses of various wallets and supports several tokens and stable coins. Additionally, this application’s user interface is simple and interactive, making it easy for the novice in the industry to grasp how it works easily.  With this software’s [user-friendly interface](https://geniusee.com/single-blog/16-techniques-for-creating-a-user-friendly-interface), more investors in cryptocurrency are beginning to rely on Nansen.ai to track various tokens and NFT projects. In this way, it becomes easier for them to determine which area to invest in.  ## Competitive Alternatives to Nansen.ai While Nansen.ai is a unique application offering features you cannot find in other competitors, it’s still nice to know what alternatives are available. This knowledge allows you to easily compare and contrast the software, leading you to make a more informed decision before investing.  ### Santiment  A market intelligence platform is Santiment, used mainly for cryptocurrencies. This application focuses on reliable and clean data feeds, custom market analysis, and low-latency signals. Additionally, Santiment also allows leveraging social, development, on-chain, and several other [data sources.](https://alejandrorioja.com/quick-guide-on-how-to-access-website-source-code/) ### LunarCrush LunarCrush utilizes machine learning and artificial intelligence to allow precise cryptocurrency data analysis. It gets information from various sources, revealing valuable insights users can use to create data-driven and confident trading decisions.  ### CryptoQuant CryptoQuant delivers on-chain and market data through API or straight into R, Python, Excel, and other tools. It’s a time-efficient and cost-saving software that allows you to obtain the desired data in the format you prefer.  ## The Future of Nansen.ai Nansen.ai is a startup that offers an interface and database for exploring [Ethereum wallets](https://coinsutra.com/best-etherum-wallets/) and their data.  It was created in order to make the data more accessible to traders, analysts, and anyone who wants to explore the blockchain. The company plans to expand its services by incorporating other blockchains soon.  In the comments below, let me know whether you have tried Nansen.ai and how the experience was for you.  Liked this article? Know more about NFT and digital wallets by reading the insightful articles below! - [How Does Venmo Work? A Review Of Features And Benefits](https://alejandrorioja.com/venmo-review/) - [How To Create And Market A Non-Fungible Token In 2022(NFT Mania)](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-and-market-a-non-fungible-token/) - [Does Robinhood Make Any Money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). ## Updated for May 2026 The 2026 AI-tools landscape evolved fast — this section is the operator-side snapshot: - **OpenAI** shipped **GPT-5** in mid-2025; ChatGPT plus the API are now hybrid systems (GPT-5 + smaller fast models routed automatically). **Sora** is fully released for video. **DALL·E 3** still ships images inside ChatGPT. - **Anthropic** is shipping the **Claude 4.x** family (4.5 → 4.6 → 4.7 in late 2025 / early 2026). The 1M-context window enables full-codebase or full-book reasoning. **Claude Code** is the default CLI agent for many engineering teams. - **Google** is on **Gemini 2.5 Pro** with the 2.5 Flash family for speed; Gemini is the model inside Google Workspace, Android, and the rebranded **Google Search AI Overviews**. - **xAI's Grok** crossed Grok 3 in late 2024 and is the default model inside X Premium. - **Image enhancers**: most are now hosted by the big-three model providers natively (`Image Upscale` and `Generative Fill` inside ChatGPT and Gemini). Standalone tools like Topaz Photo AI, Magnific, and Krea AI hold quality leads but the floor moved up dramatically. If the post you're reading recommends a specific AI tool, verify the current model — most ship a new major version every 4–6 months in 2026. --- ## What’s The Difference Between Facebook App And Facebook Touch? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/the-difference-between-facebook-app-and-facebook-touch/ Published: 2022-07-07 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Facebook Touch is a lighter version of the Facebook mobile app for touchscreen devices. However, you can still enjoy its fascinating features, even if it is simplified. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Facebook Touch is a lighter version of the Facebook mobile app for touchscreen devices. However, you can still enjoy its fascinating features, even if it is simplified.  Also, Facebook Touch offers better-quality images and graphics and a more user-friendly interface than the Facebook default mobile application. It also consumes less battery and runs faster. Facebook is the biggest social media platform, with almost 2.5 billion monthly active users. It has been popular for a long time, and people are enjoying its benefits. Additionally, [several changes and features](https://www.lifestyleasia.com/ind/gear/tech/facebook-updates-new-features-2022/) come ahead and surprise people that use it.  Accordingly, Facebook Touch has become a trend for social media users. It is a feature introduced by H5 applications that allows you to use Facebook with a smart touch.  However, what if I don’t know about it or don’t want to use any additional apps for Facebook? Is it more convenient and user-friendly for me? What does Facebook Touch have, and what is the difference between it and the default Facebook app? In this article, we will learn what Facebook Touch is and how to use it. Let’s get started! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQOxZevyU3E ## Facebook Touch Facebook Touch is an application developed by H5 applications designed for touchscreen phones. It has a nice user engagement and can be used as an alternative to the standard Facebook App.  In addition, Facebook Touch operates faster even at a slow internet connection, consumes less data, and has enhanced graphics and presentation. It also enhances the news feed layout and profile pages for touchscreens, making it convenient for users to navigate through content and discover the info they seek. ### Features Here are some fascinating features of the application: 1. Even when the Internet connection is poor, it provides a fluid and smooth experience. 2. Works well for both Android and iOS. 3. Simple to use on desktop computers 4. Convenient access to your Facebook [groups](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-keep-your-facebook-group-active/) and pages 5. Shows great-quality of pictures and [videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/), even with a poor internet connection ### Limitations Even with many fascinating features, Facebook Touch still has some limitations. Here are some of them: 1. Lacks security (SSL encryption) 2. Lacks adult content filters 3. Incompatible with smartphones that have larger displays ## How to download and use Facebook touch? ### Install Facebook Touch You can’t download Facebook Touch from your Play Store or App Store on your phone. If you try to search for the app on either of the two, only the default Facebook app will show.  To install Facebook Touch, you must get its APK file from any search browser you use. However, you should make sure to change your phone’s authorization option, which allows apps from unknown sources to be installed. Then, choose the right APK file that satisfies all of the terms and conditions and download the file from there. Like any application or download, you could use Wi-FI or mobile data.  After downloading the app, you can install it, run it, and log into your account using your existing Facebook login information. ### Use the Browser You may also check out Facebook Touch by visiting ‘touch.facebook.com’ on your phone’s available browser. ## How does it work? If you’re wondering how Facebook Touch works, here are a few things you should know: ### How to Log In to Facebook Touch? To access Facebook Touch on your smartphone on any other touchscreen phone, follow the steps below: 1. Open [Facebook Touch](http://touch.facebook.com). 2. Type your email address or phone number that you used on your Facebook account. 3. Type your password. 4. Select login. ### How to Log out to Facebook Touch? To log out of your account on Facebook Touch, follow the steps below:  1. Go to your profile page on Facebook Touch, then click the top right corner. 2. Choose ‘Settings’ and tap the “Security and Login” option. 3. A new window will open containing the login portion. Tap on it, then select the ‘See more’ button. 4. Choose the ‘User’s preferred session.’ 5. Then, you can now log off your Facebook account. ### How to add ‘Facebook Touch’ as a Shortcut to my Home screen? Since you can access Facebook Touch through a browser, you can add a shortcut to your Home Screen so you don’t have to enter its [web address](https://www.forbes.com/sites/marksparrow/2022/02/14/change-your-old-web-address-for-one-thats-made-of-emojis/) every time. Here’s how: On Android: 1. Open your web browser and go to ‘touch.facebook.com.’ 2. Then, tap your web browser’s menu. 3. Choose the “Add to Home Screen” option, then click “Confirm.” On iOS: 1. Go to your Safari web browser and go to ‘touch.facebook.com.’  2. Tap the right-pointed arrow near the web address box.  3. A drop-down menu will open. Choose the “Add to Home Screen” option. 4. Click “Confirm,” then the Safari will close automatically and show your home screen.  ### How to Disabled Facebook Touch Notifications? Disabling notifications is simple when someone responds to a comment or likes content on Facebook Touch. If you want to disable your notifications in Facebook Touch, here’s how: 1. Open your phone settings. 2. Select the “Apps” section. 3. Find the Facebook Touch app and select the “Notifications” section. 4. Turn off the notifications.  ### How to Access my Account Info and Privacy Settings? You can also access your account information and privacy settings on Facebook Touch. Here’s how: 1. Open your Facebook Touch application. 2. Log in to your Facebook account. 3. Tap the three lines on the top-right corner of the home page. 4. Find the ‘Help and Settings’ section, then choose “Settings.” 5. You can check and [edit your account information](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/), preferences, permissions, and visibility here. ## What Can I access through Facebook Touch? You can quickly access a variety of features with Facebook Touch. Additionally, you can get much of the information you’ll need by tapping on the three dots in the top right corner.  Some of the features are: - Profile photo - Suggested Tab – shows a list of suggested Facebook pages and groups - Apps Tab – shows the apps that are allowed within Facebook - Favorites Tab  - Groups Tab ## Can I send a message on Facebook Touch? Direct messaging on Facebook Touch is only available through the Messenger app. This suggests that you must download Messenger to send someone a message. The Messenger app is an additional application you need to download from Play Store or App Store.  It’s a useful tool for managing [social media conversations](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/), as you can have personal or group conversations. You can add some attachments, like photos and files, and use emojis and stickers.  Facebook Messenger also allows you to receive some message requests from other people you aren’t friends with, a feature you can use for connecting with customers and clients.  It can answer inquiries about your product/service offerings, process orders, and provide post-sales customer assistance. If you use social commerce and [sell on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/), you must download and install the Facebook Messenger app. ## What Is the Difference Between Facebook Mobile App and Facebook Touch? Both Facebook Mobile App and Facebook Touch are accessible to any [smartphone](https://www.forbes.com/sites/gordonkelly/2022/05/31/google-pixel-7-ultra-leak-android-code-new-pixel-smartphone/?sh=6413c3bb3c88). With this, what are the differences between the two? - If you open Facebook on your web browser, the address will show as ‘m.facebook.com.’ On the other hand, if you open Facebook Touch, the address will show as ‘touch.facebook.com’ - Facebook Touch shows better quality images and videos because the official mobile website is built to cater to limited data, low-quality graphics, and a limited amount of displays - The Facebook Touch performs a great user interface and consumes low data ## Is Facebook Touch Worth the Try? Facebook Touch is an essential choice for anyone who uses Facebook on their phone. It consumes less power and makes use of fewer mobile resources. Not only does it elevate your experience, but it also allows you to use Facebook features without difficulty effortlessly. Of course, it is worth the try. If you want to remove your Facebook app on your phone and make it more data-friendly, download the touch version to enjoy the same or even more Facebook features. Facebook Touch is a great way to stay connected with your friends while on the go. Its simple and intuitive design makes it easy to use when you log in. So why not give it a try today? Liked this post? Read more from the articles I wrote about Facebook, its other features, and related content that I think you might find helpful. - [How The Facebook Ads Library Helps Your Business Grow](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-the-facebook-ads-library-helps-your-business-grow/) - [How To Change Your Facebook Page Name](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/) - [How To Deactivate Or Delete Facebook And Messenger](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) Drop a comment to let me know what other topics you want to know! --- _— [Alejandro](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems](/services/#agent) for founders. [See the stack →](/agentic/)_ --- ## The Email Services That Don’t Require Phone Verification Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/email-services-that-dont-require-phone-verification/ Published: 2022-06-28 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Reviews ## Table of contents #### Bottom line A matter of privacy has led people not just to provide other personal information such as their phone numbers. But several email services would require phone verification, and it’s not a feature that is preferred by all.  Some are just being extra careful on [security issues](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-your-connection-is-not-private-error/), but some don’t like providing too much information on the internet. This is why it’s convenient that there are email services that won’t require you to go through the phone verification process. They also have handy features you’ll need for your email tasks.  Most email services today will ask for phone verification for security reasons. They may also use it further on their security features, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) and OTPs for logging for a certain device or transactions.  But on some level, we also want to protect our privacy, which is why some people may be hesitant to provide phone numbers. Hacking issues can also make people more protective of providing private information. But, hey, it may just be their instinct or mechanism to fight privacy invasion.  Also, this will be a hassle if you’re trying to sign up using different email accounts but don’t want to go through that phone verification process. There’s no need to worry if you don’t want some of your personal information collected by request-based email services. I’ve found email services that are safe and secure without asking for phone numbers and even other sensitive data. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZViRHl\_t6vY ## 1\. ProtonMail [Proton launched ProtonMail](https://proton.me/mail) in 2014 in Switzerland. Proton has encrypted services such as email service, cloud storage for your files, calendar, and VPN. Generally, ProtonMail has a limited amount of sending 50 emails an hour, or 150 emails daily, for the free account.  Monthly plan subscriptions have a limit of sending 1000 emails a day. But it also won’t expose your personal information to advertisers.  ### Features Here are the features of ProtonMails: 1. 500 MB storage (free account), 4GB ( monthly plan) 2. Emails can be password-protected and self-destruct or expire in a few days 3. End-to-end encryption across emails  4. Hides your IP address from exposing personal information ## 2\. Mailinator [Mailinator](https://www.mailinator.com/v4/login.jsp) is known for its disposable email service. It has several uses, from using it to sign up on various web services and having private domains to email and SMS workflow testing for programmers.  This email service helps you from getting spammed on the email address you use since it’s not connected to your Mailinator email. Additionally, Mailinator won’t require you to create an account. You can add your username and add **@mailinator.com** and can instantly use it.  But if you want to check your Mailinator emails, you can check them on their [Mailinator Public Inboxes](https://www.mailinator.com/v4/public/inboxes.jsp). Yes, the emails sent to Mailinators can be accessed by the public on this web page, but the emails were also automatically deleted after a few hours. They have paid versions such as their Verified Pro Subscription, specially made for QA, Developers, and Testing Teams, with an annual and monthly subscription that you can cancel anytime. ### Features These are the features that the subscription offers: 1. Privacy on your emails 2. WEB and API access to all your inboxes, emails, and SMS messages 3. Storage for your emails for you to keep them in a long time 4. Your team members can set up their user accounts 5. Single-Sign-On (SSO) security feature for enterprise accounts ## 3\. Yandex Mail [Yandex Mail](https://mail.yandex.com/) is an email service and part of the services of Yandex, a search engine and web portal with other services such as maps, images, news, and more. Some might say that it’s a Russian Google.  The email service won’t require phone verification when signing up but might ask later if you enter an incorrect [password](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/) to recover your account. But the good thing is you can [delete the phone number you’ve entered](https://yandex.com/support/id/authorization/phone.html#:~:text=belongs%20to%20you.-,Go%20to%20the%20Phone%20numbers%20page.,notification%20and%20a%20numeric%20code.).  ### Features Here are the features that Yandex Mail offers: 1. It has a timer where you can schedule the email you’re going to send 2. Built-in anti-virus for filtering spam messages 3. Combine other Yandex inboxes in just under one Yandex Mail account ## 4\. GMX Mail Global Mail eXchange (GMX) is a company in Germany that has been running since 1997.  [GMX Mail](https://www.gmx.com/mail/) app may not require your phone number, but it will ask for another email. Their 4-digit PIN is optional if you want to activate it to protect [access from your data](https://flux.la/how-to-protect-your-data-when-working-from-home/) on phone or tablet devices. ### Features Here are the main features of GMX Mail: 1. Large attachment file up to 50MB 2. Email storage of 65GB 3. Get up to 10 alias addresses in one account 4. Lets you combine multiple email accounts 5. Share photos and folders via the GMX cloud 6. Encrypted PGP email features ## 5\. Guerrilla Mail [Guerrilla Mail](https://www.guerrillamail.com/) won’t require phone verification, as you won’t even have to sign up in the first place. You must verify that you are not a bot to get your anonymous email address.  It has been around since 2006, with over 13 billion emails processed in the system. With the email being created, you have an inbox to send and receive emails. ### Features Here are the features for Guerrilla Mail: 1. Temporary email address disposed of after an hour 2. Attachment up to 150 MB of files 3. Any information from the emails is not stored once deleted ## 6\. MailFence [MailFence](https://mailfence.com/) offers private and secure emails without phone verification but will ask for an existing email to sign up. It was launched in 2013 by the ContactOffice Group.  The email service focuses on privacy big-time, as the government does not sponsor them, so they are not mandated to get data from your accounts. Since MailFence is from Belgium and did not come from a foreign parent company, it’s not liable to US gag orders or any domestic and foreign authorities. ### Features Here are the remarkable features of MailFence: 1. Storage space of 500MB 2. No marketing trackers to monitor your preference and demographics  3. Completely free from ads 4. No spams or solicitations 5. End-to-end encryption (E2EE) 6. Private keys are encrypted via AES-256 ## 7\. Mail.com [Mail.com](https://www.mail.com/) has your typical email set up when signing up, which has been on the internet for over 25 years. It won’t require phone verification but will ask for an existing email account. The email service has a paid version where it’s ad-free. ### Features Here are the features offered on Mail.com: 1. Send attachments up to 30MB 2. 65GB email storage 3. 2GB free online cloud storage 4. Can forward all of your emails to your mail.com inbox 5. Up to 10 alias addresses in one account and manage it with a single mail.com login 6. Security features include two-factor authentication ## 8\. Inbox.lv [Inbox.lv](https://www.inbox.lv/) was founded in Latvia with its email service used by 64% of its population and has been on the internet for more than 15 years. It has other services that include photos, file sharing and storing, calendars, and contacts. The email service provider developed a mobile version in 2012, both available on Android and iOS. They also provide paid versions with larger storage and are ads-free. ### Features Here is the features Inbox.lv offers: 1. Smooth operations and loading on the website 2. 20GB email storage, 100 GB (paid version) 3. SMTP/POP3/POP3S/IMAP access (paid version) 4. Spam and virus protection ## Bottom line Privacy and convenience matter a lot nowadays. In a world where our personal information is constantly being monitored and compiled, it’s comforting to know that there are developing technologies that help us maintain some level of privacy. A simple yet important feature of not requiring phone verification creates a demand, together with other privacy and security features that would ease up and protect our personal information. Want to know more about what to do in email marketing? Check any of these posts! - [3 Things To Focus On For Better Quality Marketing Messages](https://flux.la/3-things-to-focus-on-for-better-quality-marketing-messages/) - [Top 8 Most Interesting Content Marketing Examples](https://flux.la/top-8-content-marketing-examples/) - [4 Ways To Use Digital Marketing To Grow Your Brand](https://flux.la/4-ways-to-use-digital-marketing-to-grow-your-brand/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A note on the safety-and-privacy framing of this post: the underlying tactic (anonymous email, anti-tracking, etc.) is more relevant than ever in 2026 with state-level privacy laws (Texas TDPSA + CA CPRA in the US, ePrivacy + DSA in the EU) putting actual teeth behind consent. **~83%** of US site visitors now encounter at least one consent banner per session. For the specific tools mentioned: Omegle shut down in 2023, so any guide referencing it as a live platform should redirect to Monkey or Ome.tv (the two largest 2026 successors). Email-without-verification services like SimpleLogin (Proton acquisition), AnonAddy (now AddyMail), and Firefox Relay are still recommended in 2026. --- ## App Store Optimization Starter: A Beginner’s Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/app-store-optimization-starter-a-beginners-guide/ Published: 2022-06-26 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Knowing the basics, we know that SEO is used to increase brand awareness, traffic, and conversion rate using search engines such as Google and Bing. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line The workarounds in App Store Optimization have the same elements as Search Engine Optimization. These elements include tools, keywords, metrics, and conversions.  Additionally, the tricks and strategies for increasing your metrics for your app downloads say a lot about the efforts and smart plans you have taken to your rankings. More importantly, the things you consider regarding your users that drive them to download your app. Is Search Engine Optimization (SEO) applied to App Store Optimization (ASO)? Knowing the basics, we know that SEO is used to increase brand awareness, traffic, and conversion rate using search engines such as Google and Bing.  Now, you can also set and tweak how you can increase your visibility on your app. App store optimization is set on another platform, particularly on app stores such as Google Play Store and Apple App Store. There are millions of apps that probably have the same function and features. Those messaging apps, which are the best example of having the same function and features, can still be distinguished from one another. One of the reasons they tend to stand out and get more downloads is how these apps emphasize their marketing efforts. Here, I can share some insights and clarifications on what you can do more in this avenue alongside your SEO workarounds.  ## ASO and SEO You get to know ASO and SEO similarities in working one’s way up on the top rankings on the search results page. ASO may be based on SEO’s mechanism but still have distinct features as it runs on other platforms, which are app stores and particularly caters to apps. Additionally, ASO has rankings, but it is based from: 1. User reviews, engagement, and ratings 2. Impression on the app quality 3. Newly launched app or its updates Technically, ASO is measured by the results from the following: 1. Ranking 2. Downloads 3. Shares 4. Impressions on apps ASO may be a new breed of search optimization, but it would still need the [SEO for the app’s websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), ad campaigns, and social media platforms. Good thing there are tools with similar functions as SEO tools suited for ASO. ## How does App Store Optimization Work? ![App Store Optimization](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/jEQYLhKsZAIpCOFqUFFCzmpFS4slgAWW7mrY0N4yxFTHoTHy5gIHd-eTVWFWB2JLbR4OqVfXLZc55jHUEvANFoedTkwPHD5_QbsN4xHgMI72iMUSWz-fHl2bDs4s22kRiIz_Qij2XxMAo8WotA) [Image Source](https://appradar.com/wp-content/uploads/wpe-uploads/app-discovery-statistics-1.png) Like SEO, does ASO also have the same mechanism used in app stores or play stores? In SEO, you must know that websites get to compete for spots in search engines, whether they are ad campaigns or blogs, articles, or web pages. In ASO, you use different marketing strategies or optimization in working your way up the ranks on app store search results. We also, as users, are more likely to click on what’s at the top of search engines, the same way it is on the app stores’ search results page. Being in the top rank leads to visibility and traffic, leading to conversion and downloads if the strategies implemented are consistent and effective. ASO is also [keyword-driven](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/), which means that keywords used in searching apps on the app stores can also make a huge impact in driving the users toward your app.  These keywords make it easier to get organic downloads as you already embody the feature they’ve been looking for. ## Benefits Of App Store Optimization  App Store Optimization gets you the most out of the app stores regarding leveling or standing out from your competitors. You may have a cool app with these outstanding features, but does it translate to what the users are looking for? Imagine the books that compete for spots in bookstores, which can be a modern-day equivalent of apps on app stores, only with easier retrieval of product descriptions and reviews. As you can observe, the benefits of ASO are based on users’ behavior and pattern, from which you can get so many insights. ### Increased Visibility Getting that top rank on the app store search results gives easy access to users who search for it and gives the impression of being more trusted. This should be one of the goals for the new apps starting to build their names in the tech world. ### Increase Conversion Rates You can truly celebrate the fruits of your ASO labor when these strategies have turned into conversions or downloads. Increased downloads are one of your apps’ ultimate goals, aside from brand awareness. The line between your app being downloaded by users or not is their decision. Normally, the choices or the options given to them is another story. Why do users behave in a certain way, or why would they choose something over the other thing? Heuristics or mental shortcuts may be one of the causes explaining this. Every day, people get to decide and think over things, and some scenarios are just the same as before. People may tend to use formatted decisions or shortcuts to save time. Here are some insightful patterns that may affect users’ decisions, which would be helpful in what to strategize within your ASO: 1. Since users want to save time, they won’t fancy deep dive into changing default settings or customize settings and just stick to what’s laid out before them. 2. Still, on the factor of users’ limited time, having too many options is time-consuming for the users, so they tend to just get an option to get it over with. 3. Users go for a seamless and effortless flow of usage. They will be more likely to avoid the ones that will make them count up all the things they did just to get onto that action, result, or decision. 4. Users may not have the time or just don’t have the means to know the absolute value of a certain thing (which you can associate with apps). So, they tend to compare these similar things to weigh more value. 5. It’s not that users are lazy, but the ones that have easy access to the product’s features or the product itself are the ones they will notice of. ### Targets Relevant Users ASO will get more conversion rates or organic downloads as the keywords are optimized for what the users search for in the app store. So, it also fits into features the users are looking for, making it easier to be visible and get those organic downloads. ## What ASO Tools Should You Use? ![App Store Optimization](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xD4uEZFOgN3G3R3TUaqDCQRbRANeB9Hdx1l0mp8hpz5lEDhuYlc7H9_XeEPRe5ce3Xmz9h90m7wxqgdiLseji0qs1y-NqBUa5jqdd9wKR-9NueNRfvVFYleCdPDq3XyBTtqE29JAUuopv6FSiA) Start with these basic tools that are opting for ASO. These tools make it easier for you to gather user demographics, monitor your marketing reach, and see if you’re hitting goals like increasing visibility or revenue. ### Appsflyer Appsflyer is known for its features, such as marketing analytics, ad revenue tracking, engagement technologies, deep linking, and increasing customer privacy. It delivers real-time reports of data on its user-friendly dashboards. **Rating: [8.7/10](https://www.trustradius.com/products/appsflyer/reviews?qs=product-usage#pricing)** ### SplitMetrics A/B testing is possible as SplitMetrics can provide the pre-launching of your app and test it before you can launch it on the app stores. This app testing gives you which features and settings of your app are deemed more functional to users.  The users’ feedback creates room for where to improve and resolve bugs or issues about the app. You can also create customized pages in addition to launching your app on the app store platform. SplitMetrics can be used especially for publishing game apps on app stores, which involves a lot of design and programming features that need to be addressed. **Rating: [89%](https://www.saasworthy.com/product/splitmetrics)** ### Storemaven Storemaven is a very handy ASO tool that suits Startups, SMBs, SMEs, and even agencies. This tool can also be used for A/B testing, including conversion tracking, web traffic reporting, and customer engagement. **Rating: [5/5](https://www.capterra.com/p/201374/StoreMaven/reviews/)** ## Your ASO Strategy ### Know Your Goals Before anything else, as you try to come up with a comprehensive plan, goals need to be set so you would know which tools you will need. You get to retrieve data or results to see if you did reach your goal or get an improvement. ### Give Your Apps Some Updates Updates mean the users have something to look forward to and that improvements or user feedback are regarded and resolved. Post on your other platforms, especially on social media, for the news of the app updates.  This can increase such engagements, but it may also depend on the changes and how big changes are coming to the app. ### The Monetization Of Your App ![App Store Optimization Starter A Beginner's Guide](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UHXc1nkAeCpqrdIhVpXiUk_CK_eg7Tr_jwIfR6toQI_9qjR-gjN-RqnW7rt1T0dpeEGGFCyzecaowqIDZH6c6KBXfh3Pu6DmJFVDYTX9qrmZ4ce479447zrPrgyX6iEFc_QalXTC2fRAS1Acww) As you are invested in your app, for this is your passion and business, [creating revenues](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_us_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7) is also part of it. Your app has these features that cater to the users’ requests, consumption, and necessity, which is why a lot of apps offer a trial run and a paid version. Users would get to see how seamless, efficient, and competitive their apps are. Paid versions really get insightful data as this comes from organic downloads that provide conversion rate and app revenue. Want to know more about driving traffic, brand awareness, conversion rates, and SEO? Check any of these posts! - [The Best SEO Tools for 2022 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [The Best E-Commerce Platforms in 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) - [Top 7 Social Media Sites To Consider For Your Brand](https://flux.la/top-7-social-media-sites-to-consider-for-your-brand/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Common Google Analytics Data Errors: A Guide On How To Fix Them Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/common-google-analytics-data-errors-a-guide-on-how-to-fix-them/ Published: 2022-06-23 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: Configuring the Google Analytics system is a collaborative endeavor requiring consistent measurement and assessment to maintain data integrity. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Data errors are inevitable, causing results to be thrown off, and your technical team is likely unaware of them. Configuring the Google Analytics system is a collaborative endeavor requiring consistent measurement and assessment to maintain data integrity. Several of these appear on a startlingly regular basis. These common Google Analytics issues frequently have an impact on data tracking. There’s nothing more reliable than Google Analytics to track my progress when conducting my business online! However, integrating Google Analytics can become a [difficult and time-consuming process](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-analytics-data-errors/) for my team and me. For this reason, expert help is frequently necessary to keep the business running efficiently.  I made this guide to go over several of the most typical Google Analytics issues you might encounter and provide solutions. ## Campaign Errors ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/YsIfDmp5N_czKP-vZ43rPIElignkWJW37NHxYKJ3Usi7Icx07YErzSIa1GHHLSVadd8KQESrGFlUedpX9ubtla_mURutL_rtOvfqmJbGflJd2h4r8Daq2xznsPMSM45N8BLt1O9rcuNVvLBA9A) [Image source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG025.jpg) Other sources, such as search engines, ad campaigns, and social networks that send users to your site, are used as campaign sources. Errors in campaign sources are frequently associated with the setup of your social media campaigns. ### Untracked Custom Campaigns A custom campaign, rather than using Google’s default traffic sources, is a traffic source that you develop and track yourself. For example, you can monitor site visitors from a certain social media campaign. With this information at your fingertips, you can evaluate specific campaigns’ effectiveness and return on investment. Adding little extensions called “Parameters” to your site’s campaign URLs can let Analytics know your visitor’s origin. Utilizing the correct [Google URL Builder Tool](https://support.google.com/analytics/answer/1033867?hl=en) and the [Mobile URL Builder Tool](https://developers.google.com/analytics/devguides/collection/android/v2/campaigns#google-play-url-builder) can make things easier. There are various factors that you may not track a custom campaign effectively. However, the majority will be because of erroneously manually entering parameters somehow. Here are some key points to consider. #### Inaccurate URL It’s possible that you copied or pasted the changed URL inaccurately. What’s the solution? Check your URL against your campaign using the builder tool once more. #### Wrong Landing Page You were probably in a rush or preoccupied. And you entered the incorrect URL in the builder tool and used an alternative landing page to create your unique URL. To solve this, obtain the accurate [landing page](https://alejandrorioja.com/landing-page-optimization-tools/) URL for your advertisement and finalize it through the building tool. Compare it to the updated URL you modified during your advertisement. #### “Referral” Source Analytics recognizes your Facebook ad as a “Referral” source. If you did not provide parameters in your campaign URL when creating your ad, use the URL builder tool to test your URL. ### Offline Campaigns Left Untracked ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/zaYK3L9x6D-dHarLWa3qWj_fS3fxDGUbvka0dlivyreYNtfAxgWZ0V1JdjzxGiRbqOemQGy4wTsBpBExA3VYiMFNhPeKUyUI_mczoQAmYFe1mmnE6Xxc0CwodsDUwEq9_csdBI4nz9QMmYIhaQ) [Image source](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rsngBfuqtazDktMFm06PF9Agje607OgYDPGRETYf-TT-E3tGMuamHmRa6HycZEo9j_q_ifSvNs9JbA-7qntQnPYpQzgSBfeuwsGjbQ=w768) Radio announcements, print ads, and TV commercials are examples of offline campaigns. These adverts are not routinely tracked in Google Analytics since there is no digital engagement with them. You can’t afford to overlook data from these offline campaigns, as they could be crucial to your promotional strategy. The simplest approach is converting offline campaigns into custom campaigns and using UTM codes to label and monitor them. Follow these simple steps below to turn offline campaigns become custom campaigns: #### Create a custom URL to connect to your offline audience Your offline campaign’s URL should be unique by placing a QR code with your custom URL on your restaurant’s tables. #### Redirect Your Custom URL You can redirect this custom URL permanently to a Google Analytics Campaign URL Builder-generated trackable custom campaign URL. #### Track the Results Track the results of your offline campaign just like any other custom campaign. ### Errors in Cross-Domain Tracking Various sites feature multi-domain or multi-sub-domain sales or conversion funnels. A funnel might take viewers from a blog article to a sales page and onto a third-party purchasing cart. There might be three different domains depending on setting up each step. Cross-domain tracking is the process of tracking how visitors travel through these funnels. Failures in cross-domain tracking might result in multiple analytics issues. It can, for example, allow new sessions to be tracked when they aren’t new sessions. They’re returning visitors who are progressing through your funnel. Errors caused by inadequate Google Analytics installation across several domains or subdomains might have devastating results for your data. When your sales funnel spans various domains, you’ll need to figure out how you’ll track your visitors’ activities. You can use either Google Analytics or [Google Tag Manager](https://support.google.com/tagmanager/answer/6164469?visit_id=636978287064738144-2907854309&rd=1) to implement proper cross-domain tracking. Analytics support serves as a guide for manually adding the required parameters. You can also use [Google’s Linker Plugin](https://developers.google.com/analytics/devguides/collection/analyticsjs/linker) to take care of it. ## Code Errors ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0Ig_8O0ao7ALBqkLCNBWbLUuQWWAL3dY_7yUukBf4GBPMaKjkV6-oS-E10fTdDHHLvgov2h0GpfIZFwyD2Y0PIQppX0vVGfgjwT7o94GhCYU2gQShvRCXyPK-Eqh38I7A34HYVUG8cHC2FObMw) [Image source](https://doy2mn9upadnk.cloudfront.net/uploads/default/original/4X/c/6/3/c632c60c14e6443404beb104e3f5c2b024b48d32.png) ### Local Host analytics.js Code Errors Local hosting of the analytics.js code is 99.9% futile and more trouble than it’s worth in most circumstances. It’s common among many business owners to have a specialized server environment wherein you host your website and want to use Google Analytics. Aside from counting on Google to transmit the analytics code via their system and facing a tiny delay in your website’s loading, you can do it yourself. Speeding up a little will resolve to present the analytics code from your server. However, there are several causes why this could fail, yet many ways to successfully accelerate a slow site. You’ll need to configure a Cron Job on your system to generate efficient work. This is a scheduled process geared to refresh the locally hosted analytics.js code anytime Google updates. If your Cron Job is possibly incorrectly configured, it can’t retrieve changes to.js from Google. Users on the opposite side of the world will not gain from your few millisecond load improvements if your site is marketed internationally. They may even face longer processing times. Additionally, outdated browsers could use cached previous analytics versions and may not transmit accurate data to analytics. You should probably not host the Google Analytics code locally to address this. ## Wrong Property Results Possibly, you copied the [source code](https://alejandrorioja.com/quick-guide-on-how-to-access-website-source-code/) from the wrong “Property.” This frequently happens if you supervise the same and many Google Analytics accounts or domains. Sign in to your Google Analytics account to inspect your code and see if it matches everything you’ve set on your site. Next, proceed to the following sequence: Admin, Account, Property, Tracking Info, and Tracking Code. However, if you’re operating a WordPress Analytics plugin like Yoast’s Analytics, visit your WordPress Dashboard and proceed to Analytics, Settings, and General. After that, you must confirm your ID, revalidate, and save your changes. The method of launching your source code doesn’t matter. If data shows up in the records of the incorrect property, you’ll change it to the correct one. Unfortunately, this may entail a hard job, especially when the implementation is done manually. ### Alarming Low Bounce Rate (Under 20%) The average bounce rate relies on the site’s activities, but it’s not relatively rare to see 60 percent to 80 percent. So if your bounce rate has suddenly plummeted to single figures, it’s time to reinvent the wheel. Ensure that your site doesn’t have two copies of the identical source code in the same property. This happens with WordPress.  In some cases, if you establish an Analytics plugin with the matching property ID as the code snippet in the theme settings. You can remove one or both of them or change one to fit different Google Analytics account users. Another option is to ensure the Google Tag Manager isn’t installed with a standalone version of the Google Analytics code. You’ll get two triggers if you include Tag Manager active and the source code established on your website. Chatbox or popup windows open on the matching page are triggers sent to Analytics. These additional “events” must be set as “non-interplay events.” ### Clash With Other Scripts On The Same Page It’s fairly usual for a website to have JavaScript code operating on one or more pages. As a result, it’s critical that you double-check that embedded code variables don’t match Google’s use, or you’ll have issues. Conflicting JavaScript programs on the same page can crash one or both. You might have configured Google Analytics, and a third-party account registration page is running on your site, for example. It’s impossible even to realize it as you encounter a problem. Other programs may rewrite cookies in a visitor’s browser, resulting in a fake or unregistered page session via Google Analytics. When the original Google Analytics Script is put on your webpage, you may encounter no issues. Unfortunately, issues may arise when you customize the elemental tracking code. To solve this, you must install the Analytics Debugger for Chrome to inspect the code installation on any website. ## Tag Manager Errors There’s a problem if you’ve just started using Analytics on your webpage and haven’t seen any data within 24 hours or more.  ### Unpublished Tag Manager Container You can create a website Account for any Tag Manager you want to administer. It would help if you next constructed a Container upon [creating the Account](https://support.google.com/tagmanager/answer/6103696). Google Tag Manager’s Container is where your system and related tags are stored. Next, apply the Tags for specialized functionality after establishing your new Container. When the Tags updates in a Container have been made, errors occur, but the latest version still hasn’t been published. Before the updates take effect, you must upload your modified Container with the new or amended Tags. ### Tags Not Charging Google Analytics’ Tag is a little element of a JavaScript system that communicates unique user information from the networked domain. In addition, it sits on the Google Analytics servers. You can apply the Tags to your code fragment as needed from the Tag Manager Interface. And this will eliminate the need to apply the alterations to your system code manually. Let’s say you created the latest Tag but didn’t publish it. It would help if you published your Container every time you make changes to it when you create the latest Tag or change an old one. You’ll get the accompanying window if you select the publish button in the upper right corner. Another problem is after you’ve applied an overly specific URL command to a Tag. For instance, in “http://www.yourbusiness.com,” your URL rule says fire. For “https://www.yourbusiness.com” or “http://yourbusiness.com,” your Tag will not run. Return to your Tag and update it to enable the relevant domain variations to fire. Remember to publish again!  You may have added an incorrect Tag Manager Container containing the tracking code. Chrome’s Tag Assistant should assist you in determining the source of the issue. However, if you encounter this, it isn’t established at all! For more information, read [How to Preview and Debug Tag Manager](https://support.google.com/tagmanager/answer/6107056). ## Fix Google Analytics Errors For A Successful Business! ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/CX1ykc1xb2dRrRSfPr2hK0yEyARc1ydCiOXH8EXSPRWN4ShzH1QHBzqIxDKQQfz50zi2g-8FnLK-cgE6iVUavQ1d8lAJ7N7C_ORNvJkU0tLmjwSwiB2RFPkUjlW9Pr3RGDFBAa27fgfcZInBbg) [Image source](https://moderncampus.com/_resources/images/blog/google-analytics-for-higher-education-acquisition-overview.png) There’s no denying that Google Analytics is a useful tool for businesses to identify their clients’ interactions and site visitors truly. On the other hand, recognizing and correcting errors is not a black-and-white process. Every Google Analytics implementation is different, and troubleshooting difficulties can be time-consuming and difficult, especially when a management process is complicated. Do you want your business to operate smoothly and produce the data insights you need to make smarter decisions? You must study Google Analytics inside and out!  Did you enjoy reading this article? Learn more about Google Analytics, plus other helpful guides I’ve made: - [What Are Responsive Display Ad Campaigns And How To Set Them Up?](https://alejandrorioja.com/responsive-display-ad-campaigns/) - [How To Use Google Analytics: A 2022 Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/) - [Referral Paths In Google Analytics: What Can You Learn?](https://alejandrorioja.com/referral-paths-in-google-analytics/) Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your insights. Feel free to share and let others understand how valuable it is to learn and use Google Analytics. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 8 Essential Plugins To Use After Creating Your First WordPress Site Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/8-essential-plugins-to-use-after-creating-your-first-wordpress-site/ Published: 2022-06-21 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Productivity TL;DR: In less than 10 minutes, you are all set to SEO XML sitemaps, SEO keywords, SEO meta title, SEO meta description, social media integration, and a lot more 5. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Working on your WordPress site can be overwhelming as you may not know where to start. The great thing is you can multitask with the help of the plugins.  Plugins are used according to their functions and features to manage your database and user interface so that you can focus more on your content, insights from web traffic, and lead generation. Plugins are additional tools, much like how we install apps on our phones, adding extra help so we can optimize their usage. These plugins are like your mini-assistants that can give reports, results, or an enticing and engaging interface, depending on their features. The best things about these plugins are that most are free, with thousands of them to download. The premium ones can provide you with more access to the features of the plugins, and you can check on those that are worth investing in. Here are the plugins that I would recommend that WordPress sites should download. These combinations of plugins would help you more than enough, like a starter pack in the maintenance, backing up, and customization of your site. I have listed the following plugins from their key features and ratings from their WordPress plugin page. ## All In One SEO (AIOSEO) For a starting site like yours, web traffic indicates growth. So how can you drive the traffic towards your site? Let people know your contents exist, and this is where you can count All In One SEO. All In One SEO has over 3 million active installations and has many features that provide the SEO tools for particular needs. For example, they have a TruSEO score that analyzes your content and its readability for you to work on your content and create higher SEO rankings. ***Type of plugin: marketing plugin*** ***Key Features:*** 1. Increase your traffic by improving your ranking on search engines 2. Optimized for Google and other search engines as they follow up on date SEO standards and best practices 3. Created SEO workflows for outranking competitors with the similar content on the search results pages 4. In less than 10 minutes, you are all set to SEO XML sitemaps, SEO keywords, SEO meta title, SEO meta description, social media integration, and a lot more 5. Speaking of social media integration, it provides seamless integration with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, and other social media platforms ***Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars*** ## iThemes Security Such a hassle if your site, data, or contents get hacked. Retrieving all of these can be time-consuming. Since your WordPress contents are exclusive to the public, these hackers may attack at any time, anywhere, and probably every month. You have to go all through that process of retrieving again. iThemes Security has over 1 million active installations, which means they are trusted enough to prevent those attacks on your site. They also have premium features like using reCAPTCHA, passwordless logins, and trusted devices you can add to prevent logins from unfamiliar devices. ***Type of plugin: security plugin*** ***Key Features:*** 1. Real-time security dashboard 2. Create backups of your WordPress database 3. Login security using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and password requirements 4. Ban repeat offenders who try to access your site 5. Other advanced security tools ***Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars*** ## WP-Optimize How fast and smooth your site run can affect the traffic and the retention of the visitors or followers. Let them focus more on the content than on the glitch and lags your site could have.  WP-Optimize can clean and optimize your database so it would make your site fast and efficient. WP-Optimize Cache Premium features include managing multiple WordPress sites at a time, a wide range of options for automatic scheduling at a specified time, and a seamless Graphical User Interface (GUI). ***Type of plugin: performance or site maintenance plugin*** ***Key Features:*** 1. Cleans your database 2. Compress images to reduce their size for more storage space 3. Caches pages to increase speed and performance while reducing the server’s use of resources 4. Advanced minification and combine CSS and Java 5. Customizable automatic clean-up schedule depending on the set range ***Rating: 5 out of 5 stars*** ## UpdraftPlus UpdraftPlus acts as an app for backing up your contents into Amazon S3, Openstack Swift, Dropbox, Google Drive, FTP, DreamObjects, UpdraftVault, Rackspace Cloud, and email. Doing manual backups is tedious, especially if you have tons of other things to accomplish for your site. Your security plugin prevents attacks from hackers, but it would be safer to double secure your data with backups. Since you are also cleaning your database for faster site loading, those important data would also need backups. Their premium allows you to back up on Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Storage, Microsoft OneDrive, and more backup drives, free expert support, easy duplication or migration of your website, and backs up non-WordPress files. ***Type of plugin: backup or site maintenance plugin*** ***Key Features:*** 1. Backs up to more cloud options 2. Manage multiple website backups 3. Creates a temporary clone of your site that will run on their servers using their UpdraftClone, which you can use to run our test some features rather than on the actual live site ***Rating: 5 out of 5 stars*** ## Elementor During the times of HTML, you must at least know the basics of coding to customize your website background and interface. Other websites may let you copy and paste codes, but customizing fonts, colors, and backgrounds would still need you to edit the codes. But times have changed, and now you can drag and drop to design your WordPress site. You can visualize more of your site design for your audience. ***Type of plugin: webpage builder plugin*** ***Key Features:*** 1. More than 300 design templates to choose and edit or create or export your templates 2. Live drag and drop editing feature, no coding needed 3.  Automatically saves and backup your work 4. Landing page templates are essential for SEO and ad campaigns 5. Responsive design for different types of devices like smartphones or tablets ***Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars*** ## WP Maintenance Mode You can use WP Maintenance Mode to post on your WordPress site if your page is undergoing maintenance and needs to be down for several hours or days. This plugin lets your audience know what’s up and can excite them to look forward to revisiting the page. ***Type of plugin: site maintenance plugin*** ***Features:*** 1. Responsive design, which is mobile and tablet-friendly 2. Customizable design 3. Has countdown timer and ‘Coming soon page 4. Subscription and contact form 5. Includes landing page templates  ***Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars*** ## Ninja Forms Collect data and payments easily with Ninja Forms.  Ninja Forms uses a drag-and-drop to create and design your forms. It also has templates to choose from that are customizable for a registration form, application form, MailChimp form, subscription forms, quote request form, PayPal form, survey form, and more. It has more than 1 million active installations with its user-friendly features that lets you create engaging and lead-generating WordPress forms in just a few minutes. ***Type of plugin: form builder plugin*** ***Features:*** 1. Very customizable templates and in designing your forms 2. Accepts PayPal and credit card payments and donations with options for a single payment, subscriptions, or user-entered amounts 3. Responsive design and mobile-friendly 4. Export submissions as PDF, Microsoft Excel file, and to Google Sheets 5. Follows GDPR Compliance and has Right to Be Forgotten and Data Export requests templates ***Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars*** ## Broken Link Checker The user experience, from smooth loading of the website page to working links to videos, other websites, social media platforms, missing images, redirects, and more, can increase your SEO and web traffic.  But as your contents increase in number, it would be hard enough to keep track of which links within your contents still work. The Broken Link Checker plugin can do all the work, as manually checking it would be time-consuming. It runs through the contents to look for broken links.  As soon as it finds the broken link, it can notify you through your widget on the Dashboard. It can also send an email notification, or the WordPress admin panel, under *Tools*, where you can see the *Broken Links* option. ***Type of plugin: site maintenance plugin*** ***Key Features:*** 1. Runs through your posts, pages, comments, the blogroll, and custom fields to track both external links and internal links 2. You can edit the URL of the broken link directly on the plugin page without updating the post itself ***Rating: 4 out of 5 stars*** ## Sites Where You Can Download WordPress Plugins Plugins are available and can be downloaded either for free or on the premium on these sites.  Plugins, just like apps, may have great features but sometimes tend to fall short of the specific features you are looking for. They also looked like app stores, complete with plugin descriptions, ratings, reviews, and number of downloads. You can explore different plugins that would best serve as the right tools. ### WordPress WordPress has a page dedicated to thousands of plugins, and all of the mentioned plugins are available here for free or on premium. ### CodeCanyon CodeCanyon has over 1000 premium WordPress plugins you can purchase for as low as $2. ### WPMU DEV WPMU DEV also has premium plugins you can download. But you must sign up first for membership to download the plugins. It has more than 900,000 members with either a monthly or yearly membership subscription and different packages for personal, freelancer, or agency, each with varying rates. Is this an informative article? Make sure you don’t miss out on any of my other posts! - [The Best SEO Tools for 2022 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [The Best E-Commerce Platforms in 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) - [Top 3 White-Hat Link Building Techniques That Google Loves](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top Tips To Optimizing Your Business’ Contribution Margin Ratio Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-tips-to-optimizing-your-business-contribution-margin-ratio/ Published: 2022-06-02 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line It is critical to pay attention to the contribution margin ratio since it demonstrates how well your firm is able to pay its fixed costs. It also estimates how much money you may generate after your fixed expenditures are met. This sort of research can help you make better decisions regarding how and where to sell your products and services. In some cases, offering a collection of goods and services with a low contribution margin may be suitable if the total value is positive. Profits increase when the contribution margin ratio increases. Knowing your company’s financials may help you raise earnings, reduce costs, and manage them more successfully. In fact, this is one of those financial concepts that appear to be more complex than it actually is. It is valuable for analyzing your manufacturing profitability and determining what types of output you’ll need to make your organization profitable. It’s essential that you properly understand the idea of contribution margin.  The contribution margin ratio shows how well your company is able to pay its fixed costs so it’s important to pay attention to it. It also offers you an idea of how much money you could make once you’ve covered your fixed costs.  I’m here to explain to you how this type of study would aid you in making better options and where to market your products and services. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrWK6phFvEM ## Understanding Contribution Margin Ratio And Its Benefits The profit volume ratio is another name for the contribution margin ratio and it’s one of your company’s most significant financial ratios. This is because it reveals your company’s profitability rate.   Pertains to the percentage gap between your different costs and your sales. Such that this ratio determines the proportion of net sales for your organization. If a product portfolio or business has a relatively low contribution margin, it is not advisable to continue creating the product at its current market price level if it’s a really high volume product.  In some instances, providing a set of goods and services with a low contribution margin may be appropriate as long as its overall value is positive. You can also use the contribution margin ratio to figure out how much money your company wants to make. [Profits](https://www.accountingtools.com/articles/2017/5/16/contribution-margin-ratio) are higher when the contribution margin ratio is higher.  It can be more convenient to create, given restricted resources, in order to resolve capacity issues. Contribution margins should be improved by enhancing operational efficiencies.  Businesses may invest in more productive machinery that generates the same quantity of units in a shorter length of time, minimizing variable product costs. Production systems and more efficient operating procedures might be taken into action. ## Difference Between Contribution Margin And Contribution Margin Ratio When you say Contribution Margin, it is the distinction between a company’s income and its variable costs. After removing the variable costs of creating your goods, this refers to the extra money which your firm generates.  This refers to the amount of money your company can create to cover its fixed costs. The representation of contribution margin is the percentage of [Contribution Margin Ratio](https://www.thebalance.com/what-is-contribution-margin-5187229#:~:text=It%20is%20an%20accounting%20term,contribute%20to%20the%20firm's%20profit.). After variable costs have been deducted, the percentage of revenue remains. Either the unit contribution margin or the total contribution margin can be used to compute it. It could be represented in dollars either as a proportion of the total number at the component or total level. ## How To Optimize Your Business’ Margin Ratio? Let’s focus on some concrete ways you can take to boost your margin and either improve your expenses or increase your profitability. ### 1\. Improve Customer Loyalty Customer service upgrades, more engaging and focused communications to customers, or the creation of subscriptions of some sort can all contribute. You can evaluate how much it should cost you to obtain greater customers as your company grows. This is what will happen when your company establishes a strategy for bringing in new customers that can be replicated. ### 2\. Be Resourceful When Minimizing Expenses Creating new innovations and reducing your expenditures would make your company better. If the costs of creating items or paying for some services are consuming your profit margins, it’s time to take a closer look.  Learn to identify ways to cut costs without affecting productivity. ### 3\. Envision As Price Adapts Fortunately, greater prices can occasionally portray a luxury product or contain more quality and generate higher sales volume. Determine [strategies](https://www.helpscout.com/blog/price-increase/) to limit the increased expense in other sectors. Everything has had a significant influence, so keep that in mind. Because the cost of manufacturing your items has risen, you must also raise your pricing. As a result, your customers are expected to raise their prices. ### 4\. Boost Sales Several companies believe that underpricing their products would enhance consumer adoption. Another method is to concentrate on promotions or add-ons to existing products.  You could also examine your marketing tactics internally. ### 5\. Decrease Delivery Charge You can decrease the shipping costs by accumulating higher orders. Having consumers purchase a particular amount of products in order to receive free delivery is a good approach to lessen your load.  Customers are responsible for paying for delivery if they do not purchase beyond the limit.  ## The Formula And Its Components In terms of percentage, the contribution margin ratio is an equation that calculates the percentage of contribution margin (Sales – Variable expenses) ÷ Sales = Contribution Margin Ratio.  Upon covering all variable costs of creating a product, the result of this equation provides the entire percentage of sales revenue left to cover fixed expenses and profit. The following components are: ### Fixed Costs The fixed costs are the costs that do not change in response to changes in total production or services rendered. They are not reliant on the efficiency of your company.  In the short run, these costs are unaffected.  Fixed costs are applied in break-even data to evaluate the price and amount of output, ensuring profitability. The following examples of fixed costs are: 1. Rent 2. Depreciation 3. Wages and Salaries 4. Interest Expenses 5. Utility Costs 6. Premiums 7. Taxes of Properties ### Variable Costs The direct and indirect expenses spent by a firm to generate and sell goods or services are known as variable costs. The cost of these items varies based on the number of units produced or services provided.  The variable costs grow as increased production and drop as output volume lowers. The examples are below: 1. Labor Per Unit 2. Charges 3. Manufacturing Supplies 4. Raw Materials 5. Wages that can be reimbursed 6. Delivery Costs ### Operating Profit The profit your company makes from its main operations is referred to as operating profit. Gains from subsidiary investments such as revenues from other firms in which a company has a stake are also excluded.  If primary business revenue falls short of expenses, operational loss arises. The formula for operating profit is Operating Profit (or Income) = Sales – Total Variable Cost – Total Fixed Cost. A company can examine how variations in sales, fixed costs, and variable costs affect the operating profit by analyzing operational profit. ### Gross Sales Gross Sale is a term used to measure a company’s total revenues before deducting the costs of creating those sales. On the other hand, it does not include operating expenses, tax expenses, or other charges, which are all removed to arrive at net sales. ## Bottom line Running a business can be stressful, but not every company owners are aware of how to get there. Studying and learning how the basics are the key to achieving success. When sales increase, the contribution margin ratio rises. Profits increase for every amount increase in sales. Each corporate owner’s goal is to provide as much money left over after all costs are covered. Learning how to determine your contribution margin ratio is integral, but putting that knowledge to good use is crucial for long-term organizational performance.  Making sales at present prices may no longer be relevant, and if the contribution margin is too low, the product offering may be phased out entirely. The more the company produces, the more money it spends on raw materials and intermediate goods, which is why its cost changes as output increases.  This Contribution Margin Ratio should be used to easily calculate the break-even point and could be used to figure out how many sales are required to meet a profit goal. Leave a remark on what you think I should cover in my next post! Is this an informative article? Make sure you don’t miss out on any of my other posts! - [Exploring Ahrefs As An SEO Tool: A Review Of Tools And Features](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/) - [Wix Vs. Squarespace: What’s The Best Website Builder In The Market?](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) - [How To Become A Freelancer? A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-a-freelancer/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Use Google Scholar To Generate Content Ideas Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-scholar-to-generate-content-ideas/ Published: 2022-06-01 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Google Scholar is a fantastic resource for finding papers on niche-related topics and adding to Google Scholar’s library. Anyone, including marketers, researchers, and academics who do research, can utilize this platform. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Google Scholar is a fantastic resource for finding papers on niche-related topics and adding to Google Scholar’s library. Anyone, including marketers, researchers, and academics who do research, can utilize this platform. The purpose of Google Scholar is to rank texts in the same manner that scholars do: by relevance and reputation. Because of its ranking process, searchers will be able to find important material more quickly. This platform is useful not just for content ideas, but also for studying academic issues that students and scholars may be interested in. The necessity of [content](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) in branding cannot be overstated. The most effective approach to advertising a business is to provide high-quality content. Materials can provide appropriate responses to clients’ questions. Advertisers may use content marketing to establish consumer credibility, boost conversions, engage with consumers, and produce prospects.  Clients nowadays anticipate high-quality content from the companies they love. Brands can use content to help them rank higher in search results. I’m glad to inform you about Google Scholar and its wonders. Google Scholar has stepped forward to [help digital marketers](https://alejandrorioja.com/9-social-media-metrics-all-marketers-should-measure/) overcome this prevalent issue. Many individuals are familiar with Google Scholar, but they are unsure of its capabilities.  Google Scholar is an excellent tool for locating publications on niche-related topics and contributing to Google Scholar’s collection. This platform can be used by anyone, including marketers, scholars, and academics who do studies. Google Scholar is helpful not just in making content but also for research purposes. ## Get the Most Out of Google Scholar’s Features Google Scholar assigns a score to publications depending on how many times they’ve been accessed, printed, or saved in a given amount of time. The most popular or most utilized categories in Google Scholar outcomes are displayed first, similar to Google searches.  The goal of Google Scholar is to rate texts in the same way as researchers do: by relevancy and reputation. Searchers will be able to locate valuable content more efficiently thanks to its ranking mechanism.  Google Scholar is advantageous to users because it provides marketers and researchers with simple access to scholarly content such as academic journal papers. You might develop article ideas by looking for terms relating to your sector, business, or issue on Google Scholar.  This platform applies not only for [content ideas](https://blog.hootsuite.com/content-idea-cheat-sheet/) but also for researching academics-related topics that students and scholars would find relevant.  ### 1\. Putting Your Findings into Perspective The [layouts](https://websitesetup.org/website-layouts/) of search engine results vary. Clickable title hyperlinks that direct you to abstracts or comprehensive publications will be available in PDF and documents, but citations and books don’t.  Citations are things retrieved from Google Scholar-indexed documents’ references, footnotes, or bibliographies. They don’t normally have clickable links, but the citation usually provides enough data to locate the object. By selecting “Web Search,” the standard [Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google/) search engine will be utilized to look for the citation. If the name of the book or journal wherein the article was published is reduced in the citations, this can help you figure out what book or journal the article was posted in. ### 2\. Citations On Google Scholar, selecting the “Cited by” link will bring you a series of articles and publications referencing the document found in the search. It allows you to find other documents connected to the original manuscript by topic. On the other hand, Google Scholar only contains articles that have been indexed in its database, which is a significantly smaller selection of scholarly publications. Using Google Scholar’s Cited By feature brings further relevant search results inside the Scholar database. The number of times other publications have quoted the result is shown in the “Cited By” feature. You can discover more about your topic and raise the efficiency of your research or themes by following these citations. ### 3\. To Find the Best Options, Use the Advanced Search You can use filtration and other factors in the advanced search option to produce the most relevant outcomes. You can, for instance, restrict the results to a given timeframe. Another alternative is to conduct a search based on the author’s name. You can also use the advanced search feature to limit the findings to materials from academic databases recognized by your institution, sponsor, or organization. Understand that mastering complicated search capabilities can take some time, so don’t give up if it doesn’t work out right away.  To search by author, publication, or date, use Google Scholar’s Advanced Search. Other reasons why google scholar is ideal: 1. You can browse in the private searching mode for better results. 2. Manage and systematize your citations  3. It’s easy to use because it’s familiar. 4. Has relevant publications you’re interested in. 5. Has a wide range of resources.  ## Pick and Choose the Keywords You’ll Utilize Don’t just type terms into Google Scholar in the hopes of finding material relevant. It is an excellent method of obtaining confused and repeating query results.  As part of your investigation, note down what you’d like to understand and divide it into subheadings or parts. Then, for each subtopic, make a list of phrases and related keywords that can be beneficial in finding material. It’s fine to utilize online reference books, news outlets, and other sites on Google’s regular search tool as a leaping point if you’re inexperienced with a subject. None of them are suitable for academic study.  But, you might be able to extract keywords from the resources, which you can then enter into Google Scholar to get a more comprehensive range of search outcomes. Marketers can use these tags to generate compelling content, and alternatively, if you already have a term in mind, you can use the results to develop ideas for someone else. This strategy is a terrific technique to uncover related themes to help you develop your article’s grade. ## Grow Your Potential Audience with Google Scholar Look for new consumers using Google Scholar. If your company specializes in something, you can try looking for industry-related subjects and monitoring visitors and commentators. It aids in informing marketers about future clients and builds business relationships. Marketers can also locate relevant searches for organizations that focus on consumer research or lead-generating tactics.  Even though you don’t generate any promising information, you’ll gain valuable insight into how other companies in your sector create and participate in discussions with clients. It can help you develop new concepts for your own business. And also, this platform may provide visitors with fresh content topic suggestions. ## Browse The Most Read Articles And Editorials Another useful Google Scholar method is to hunt for great content by looking at what your competition and other industry groups are doing. Also, advertisers might use Google Scholar to research specific themes. Google Scholar allows you to search from their list of 100 papers in various languages, ranked according to their five-year h-index and h-median criteria. This option lets you see which pieces in a journal were the most frequently mentioned and who mentioned them. You can also examine the articles and citation analytics by clicking the h-index value. The h-index is a number that represents how many times a particular content has been referenced in a given publication. The median of the references in its h-core is the h-median measurement. This measure is based on publications with the top 50% of citations. You can obtain compelling content for your blog themes by looking at popular publications to see what themes they tackle and whose authors are highly quoted. Marketers can also use Google Scholar to develop new items or service concepts. ## Limit Your Searches by Category The search engine on Google Scholar allows users to narrow their findings to the specified subject matter. The Advanced Scholar Search tool allows users to enter keywords, phrases, tags, and locations where they appear.   This function is ideal for those who wish to concentrate on a specific business sector. This feature limits the marketers’ search terms to publications concerning a particular sector rather than all academic papers discovered by Google Scholar.  The Writers, publications, and dates section can all be used to categorize your findings. ## Other Strategies Google Scholar sure is helpful whether you’re using it for content ideas or if you’re a student or an academic, for research. Here are some more suggestions to aid you in maximizing google scholar: 1. Rather than whole sentences, use phrases. 2. To get an accurate search, use quotations. 3. To find articles written in a specific year, indicate the year in the search field. 4. To fine-tune your query results, use the tools in the sidebar. ## To End The research process is one of the most important steps in the literature hunt. And if you’re seeking tips on how to go about it, one word of advice you’ll encounter repeatedly is to use Google Scholar to find meaningful results.  Google Scholar is a little-known gem, and it’s a beneficial tool for academic research endeavors. It’s an excellent resource for exploring topics. Best of all, you can use the program to simplify numerous areas of writing and research. Make sure to leave a suggestion on what you think I should talk about in my next post! Is this an informative article? Make sure you don’t miss out on any of my other posts! - [20 Best SEO Tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [How To Design A Landing Page: A Step By Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/) - [How Does Facebook Make Money? 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Everything You Need To Know About Google Certifications Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-google-certifications/ Published: 2022-05-25 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Reviews, SEO TL;DR: Most Google certificates are worth $39 per month until completion. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Google career certifications can equip essential skills for those interested in getting a job in some fast-paced and fastest-growing technology sectors. Generally, Google’s learning programs cover data analytics, project management, and user experience design. They were an addition to Google’s IT support program in 2018. So, these certificate programs are a great option for anyone interested in looking for a technology job or developing their skills in their current role. Although certificate programs can be expensive, experience and a degree are not required to enroll. Lastly, obtaining certifications can give connections and access to interview tips to over 200 companies working alongside Google. Have you heard about Google certifications? Earning one or more Google certifications can let you use it to your advantage. It can teach you to develop new job skills to increase your salary potential and career.  These courses are appropriate for students of all learning styles and levels of expertise. You may now be questioning if this certificate is worthwhile. In this article, I’ll explain why it might be worthwhile, how long it takes to finish, and other key details. Continue reading to find out more! ## Are Google Certifications Important to Employers? While you can’t simply get hired because of a Google certificate, employers usually consider them during their hiring process. These certifications complement an experience or a degree that can help you stand out from the other candidates. So, if you apply for jobs while getting the certificate, you will be able to easily ace most of the technical questions asked by the employer during an interview, especially for entry-level positions.  However, keep in mind that most [companies](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinessdevelopmentcouncil/2022/03/28/how-companies-can-promote-themselves-through-location-based-google-and-facebook-services/?sh=4407776428fd) will still look beyond the certifications, and it’s your skills and experience. So, if you have just started, your certificate can help you out, but your experience will take you to a higher-paying job.   ## How Much and How Soon Can You Finish Taking a Google IT Certificate? Once you finish the courses, you can access them forever, and you don’t need to pay the monthly fee again. You only need to pay until they are completed. Most Google certificates are worth $39 per month until completion. These include courses such as: - Data analytics - Google IT Support Certificate - Project Management - UX course While Google Android Developer Certification costs $149, you can get Google [Ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/) certification for free. After finishing the courses, you will have lifetime access to them, and you won’t have to pay the monthly fee. Payments are only needed for incomplete courses. On average, it takes around 2 months to finish Google IT certificates. It also depends on your skills and the amount of time you dedicate to it. For starters, committing 4 hours each day can help finish most Google IT Certificates in a month. ## Can Google Certificate Get You a Job? One of Google certificate’s best benefits is that it opens up many job opportunities. After completing your certificate, you can access an exclusive job platform that will allow you to connect with over 150 employers who readily accept candidates who have completed it. The Google Career Certificates Employer Consortium includes the largest companies like Verizon, Google, Deloitte, and Target committed to considering graduates for entry-level jobs.  You can also find jobs by using well-known job platforms where your certification is recognized in the industry as a relevant credential for entry-level jobs. ## What are the Reasons to Get a Google Certification? Google certifications are a good thing to have whether you are a part of a team or an individual. Here are a few practical reasons you should consider getting Google Certification courses. ### You Can Learn at Your Own Pace One of the Google certification classes’ advantages is having your own pacing. Google-certified courses offer a self-paced learning curve that can let you personalize your learning.  You can also choose the number of hours per week you want to commit to the courses. ### You Will Have an Edge in the Job Market Having a [Google](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2022/03/09/how-to-earn-googles-trust/?sh=59a801405d96) certification sounds professional. Recruiters will always desire to communicate with you because they are certain that you have been certified by one of the industry’s major technology businesses.  So, combining your other certificates with Google credentials is a great advantage when searching for a job.  ### You Can Construct a World-Class Resume and Portfolio  Google certifications as Google’s seal of approval is good news for job hunters. Aside from being proud of the rights that the certification provides, it can let you start networking and meeting better recruiters. In addition, people can easily identify and locate you with your skills and abilities through the google partner platform. It’s the home to most Google digital learning initiatives. ### It’s a Reliable Backup Tool to Showcase Your Knowledge Search engine optimization talents and jobs and digital marketing require certificates to back up your claims as an expert in the field. Although it would be easy to advertise your skills, having credentials to prove them better is a great touch.  For freelancers, it’s also a good idea to show your potential client certain certifications to prevent suspicions that you might be a con artist. ## What are the Best Google Certifications? These Google certifications are engaging, taught by experienced lecturers, and match your preferred learning style, making them worth pursuing. ### 1\. Google Shopping Ads Certification (Free) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c0XPVUw_A-X6K7UhDSKLKZfzy2PMk2jN-bwKbMyZotGaPfw7tb_IuxUW6bhIg2xljTyXs9u99vX-cpnO14dr4hGb014wgVP78rjyaulHcM6z_RTJSiBCGaHWkn0XdeI5CdPQKGFijn2LSo0_RQ) [Image source](https://i.pinimg.com/736x/15/a9/52/15a952c1547cd37ee9ddbb83457be157.jpg) If you want to start a career in eCommerce or master the skills required to promote your [brand](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-knowledge-panel/) on Google, you should consider this certification. This certification can teach you how to set up, design, and optimize Google Shopping campaigns. Also, you will learn how to add product catalogs to the Google merchant center to give your products more visibility in Google searches.  In addition, you can use other campaigns like retargeting campaigns and shopping. The jobs you can get with this certification are: - PPC Expert - PPC Specialist - eCommerce Specialist ### 2\. Google Analytics Individual Certification (Free) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HSwkoC-5FwHF7T3H84gBOmaJSvjgwP8dGZBEVRBEaCk93Tii-MiOHrgEKZpfPjdlqg0-MzecZZMNsnCQl7_tMK4Na4VSP1FE4-qmTpDrmyTkiyd3CbK_aUNI2OUrOEw0dk96bWh3IMBetFWh8Q) [Image source](https://miro.medium.com/max/1400/1*qpvr-e7pr57rQs3GhRYHTQ.png) Knowledge of using [Google Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/) is one of the hands-on skills of every digital marketing professional. It’s the most popular website analytics platform, so getting this certification can show how knowledgeable you use the tool.  Enrolling in this free Google certification will let you learn about the basic and advanced concepts in Google Analytics. So, after finishing the course, you will be able to analyze and use different reports and interpret how users interact and find websites.  The jobs you can get with this certification are: - Google Analytics Specialist - Junior Data Analyst - Google Analytics Professional ### 3\. Google UX Design Certificate (Paid) ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/eqFLZiMUhYJVk1qsc3tfrQveAh7mcvXpeTqEHbcnxl43rhnrJ_zT6hs0KCWNk87HBHUO7cA90oMj2hLtflE5yby29huCePt0A_pvG6NzuWoca7BdEyKq13PKfk2EJOY2FOgFcmwJAuPyLytGAQ) [Image source](https://miro.medium.com/max/610/1*s01ggysOWBJtgKZzPqIHog.png) The digital or physical products’ successes, including mobile apps and websites, rely on user experience. The Google UX Design certificate can help you acquire the skills required to design interfaces that provide a better experience to users. You have to complete seven courses to become a certified UX designer. These are: - Begin UX Design Process - Make High-Quality Designs and Prototypes in Figma - Create a User Experience for Social Wellness and Job Preparation - Build Wireframes and Low-Fidelity Prototypes - Conduct UX Research and Test Early Concepts - Responsive Web Design in Adobe XD - Foundations of User Experience (UX) Design There is no experience required to succeed in this course; however, it is not suitable for everyone.  If you feel you are not imaginative enough or have ideas to design mobile or web interfaces, you can think of a different career path. It would be the perfect course for anyone talented enough to work with design concepts and tools.  The jobs you can get with this certification are: - Product designer - UI designer - Web designer - UX designer ### 4\. Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Paid) ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/tb2CQ5ZXmrMRmwkHc-W86m7T1IQPr76Dm0iqimvj1eqOXgXIrII209ol5WBHPSZUBFPe1gLxipTnf6m9KKTxh0fwJqHnybB8Tk5yF1WVk5tC4WNBp71Dwoc0R1g_Ym4t2eBQDovg0ypbi-PNWw) [Image source](https://mwcc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Google-IT-Professional-Certificate-Logo.png) Pursuing the Google IT Support Professional Certificate is the best choice if you want to get a job in the IT support industry.  In fact, according to Google, there are thousands of job openings in the IT field, and this certificate can help you learn the necessary skills to be qualified as an IT support professional.  It’s one of the most popular Google career certificates because it’s one of the professions done at home. Surely, it will open up many career opportunities, and it’s ideal for beginners without prior experience in IT support. The jobs you can get with this certification are: - Systems analyst - Help desk technician - It technician - Support specialist - Computer user specialist ### Google Project Management Professional Certificate ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pxRXDv1In_GKDyAZVBGD68oDd1JfjLz2yyM547ek2JlactPmiu_Goi5ecQHk3Eu3eal1hXhqFlSQVEeI6FpfIT9XEqqMejyg6_yU43JWLlILae7-rYo2MwzbZAw0xaY_d7qyP2MZhLXsXNgPlA) [Image source](https://images.credly.com/size/680x680/images/51dff787-71ae-4d9d-9ca7-ef9342914d75/GCC_badge_PGM_1000x1000.png) This is an excellent course that can prepare you for entry-level jobs, such as project manager. Here, you will learn how to execute, plan, and start projects with traditional and agile project management approaches.  The course would be ideal for you if you prefer working with teams and organizations and enjoy solving problems. The jobs you can get with this certification are: - Project manager - Operations manager - Project coordinator - Project assistant ## Google Certifications are Worth Your Time and Effort Earning a Google career certification is ideal for people without a college degree who want to start a career in industries. Although it doesn’t necessarily replace a degree, it can give you an option to get entry-level jobs, get a good salary, and find a better job by acquiring real-work experience.  So, what are you waiting for? Enroll in one of these courses now, and leave a comment below to let us know what you think! Found this blog informative? Check out these other blogs related to Google! - [How Does Google Make Money? 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) - [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [Concise and Comprehensive Google Ads Tutorial for 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## All You Need To Know About "Grow Flow," Surfer’s AI Growth Management Platform Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-surferseo-grow-flow/ Published: 2022-05-20 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: Activate your Grow Flow by clicking the button that says “Sign in with Google.” On the other hand, if you are not an active subscriber, you need to sign up with your Google address here. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** I write these from inside the AI-agent systems I'm building — for myself and for clients. What follows is what's actually working when an agent runs the loop, not the LinkedIn version. #### Bottom line Today, everyone is going digital, even businesses. With your competitors increasing, you need to be innovative and think of different ways how to remain on top and how you can constantly improve your website’s content. SurferSEO’s Grow Flow is a growth management platform that introduces relevant keywords, suggests internal links, and helps you create a high-ranking article to boost your website’s traffic and engagement.  To be at the top of your game today, you need to be smart to make the most of the audience engagement and brand visibility tools. I always look forward to opportunities and resources to improve my search rankings on Google. I have been using SurferSEO for a while, and this application has helped me gain the brand visibility and audience engagement I envisioned for my brand.  When I thought the features were enough to satisfy what I needed for my business, SurferSEO surprised me again! Introducing [SurferSEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseonew/)’s Grow Flow, an Al growth management platform that continuously guarantees that your website ranks high in search rankings, generating ways to improve your brand’s content every day.  In this blog, let’s talk about what it is, how it works, and why you need it to stay ahead of your competitors. Let’s dig in.  ## What is Grow Flow? Grow Flow is the newest feature in [SurferSEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseonew/), which serves as the AI growth management platform for your website’s content. This enhanced feature was created to help businesses gain improved SEO impacts on their domains, ensuring that your audience can reach even your oldest content or blog.  So how does Grow Flow work? This SurferSEO extension allows you to streamline, automate, and optimize your content’s SEO growth strategy, and you can achieve this by connecting your domain to the Google search console.  When you utilize this feature, you can get suggestions every week on how you can improve your organic search rankings, ensuring that your brand always stays on top. Grow Flow’s efforts include giving you highly potential and relevant keywords that you can add to improve or replace the current keywords in your content.  The keywords suggested by Grow Flow have been tested and adapted to the latest market trends, ensuring that your content stays fresh and updated. Aside from keywords, Grow Flow also suggests good internal linkings, offering you possible websites that rank well that you can link to yours. Doing this guarantees that your content will obtain good search rankings on Google.  ## Getting Started with Grow Flow, Surfer’s AI Growth Management Platform How do you get started with Grow Flow? When you wish to utilize and try out this amazing feature, you need an active Surfer subscription. If you are a subscriber, you might already see the [Grow Flow](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseonew/) invitation on your Dashboard. Activate your Grow Flow by clicking the button that says “Sign in with Google.”  On the other hand, if you are not an active subscriber, you need to sign up with your Google address [here](https://surferseo.com/grow-flow-free-tool/). Grow Flow is an additional feature that needs a secure connection with your website’s Google Search Console, so Surfer will need to ask you for certain permissions.  After connecting to Google Search Console, SurferSEO will ask you to choose your domain, and it will start to analyze what you have chosen. Remember to choose your domain wisely because once chosen, you cannot change or replace it with another domain anymore. During your first attempt to try Grow Flow out, the analysis can take place for a few minutes.  When the analysis is done, it diverts you to a page where you can see suggested tasks you can complete. Don’t worry, each task has a corresponding video tutorial to help you figure out how to get started.  ## Tasks You Can Do Grow Flow gives you the opportunity to improve and enhance your website’s content in three simple ways. Below are the tasks you can do: ### Add Missing Relevant Keywords Keywords are essential to rank well on search rankings. One of the best ways Grow Flow can help your content is by suggesting relevant words and phrases that have been tested and adapted to market trends. This allows you to use as much as you want to your advantage.  When you use the [keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) suggested, you are guaranteed that these words are authoritative, contain a good volume, and are highly relevant to your brand’s topics. On the other hand, your website will be less likely to appear on search engine results pages when your content does not use good keywords. Additionally, you won’t be gaining the traffic you desire for your website when this happens. ### Add Internal Links As mentioned, another helpful task Grow Flow can do is to suggest relevant internal links you can add to your content. Remember that your domain can change by adding more content or creating more subpages.  With Grow Flow, it utilizes the Google algorithm to figure out ways you can build your internal contextual links, helping your content rank better on SERPs. [Internal linking](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jaysondemers/2017/08/31/how-important-is-your-internal-linking-strategy-for-seo/?sh=21efcb466c22) is essential to boost traffic to your website, increasing your brand visibility and audience engagement. When you allow internal links to your content, you build relationships across all your blogs. You also allow Google to examine your website, making it aware of the pieces of content on your website that contain the same subject.  ### Writing An Article for Publishing Finally, Grow Flow can help you write an article you can publish on your website, giving you a list of keyword suggestions you can use. Additionally, Grow Flow provides you with the target length and the ideal structure of your content, and the ideal number of words and paragraphs to rank well.  Your content will also be graded depending on its readability, so you can improve and adjust accordingly.  Overall, Grow Flow’s three helpful tasks can certainly help you achieve the traffic you desire for your brand. You can utilize this extension feature weekly, helping you stay on top of your business and website.  ## Troubleshooting Grow Flow Because Grow Flow is still relatively new and is still in its testing phase, you may encounter possible errors that can prevent you from using it to your advantage. Generally, Grow Flow has two main concerns: when your website is not found and following the size requirements.  ### Website Not Found When you try to enter your domain, and the page shows “Website not found,” it’s likely that you did not comply with all the necessary permissions from Google Search Console. The best solution to this concern is to reconnect your domain again.  Even though the connection to your [Google Search Console](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jaysondemers/2018/01/10/what-the-new-google-search-console-means-for-search-marketers/) was previously successful, it’s still best if you reconnect it, ensuring a fresh connection is established.  Follow the step-by-step guide below on how to reconnect your domain to the search console: 1. Besides, the Surfer Logo is an arrow. Click on it and select Google Search Console Integration in the dropdown options.  2. A page showing all your Google account details will show up.  3. Click Disconnect account. After which, select the Sign in with Google button and reconnect your search console.  4. Do not forget to tick the last box, granting necessary permissions to SurferSEO. After following the procedure, your Google Search Console should successfully connect, allowing you to use Grow Flow as you wish.  ### Wrong Sizing Requirements Grow Flow is effective and efficient because it mainly relies on proper algorithms that help it provide you with the best suggestions to boost your website’s traffic. This growth management platform also needs data for its calculations. If you wish to utilize Grow Flow, you need to follow the minimum sizing requirement of a webpage, which is around 100 impressions a day.  Impressions are essential because they represent the number of people who see your ads on a certain channel. In this way, you’ll know how effective a specific advertising campaign is and how it helped boost your brand’s visibility.  ## Benefits of Grow Flow Grow Flow provides your website with several benefits. Because it’s automated, it provides you with easy and fast solutions to your writer’s block. With Grow Flow, you are presented with suggested content keywords you can use. You don’t need to spend quite a lot of time researching keywords you can use because they are already presented in front of you.  Additionally, Grow Flow does a great job of ensuring that your content stays in SERPs. Everything is just a click away, as long as you’re connected to your Google Console Search. Another great benefit is how smooth and hassle-free it is to use Grow Flow. And because it’s still currently in its testing phase, Grow Flow is just an additional feature that won’t charge you for anything if you try using it.  A possible limitation of Grow Flow, on the other hand, is its limitation to a single domain only. You cannot input several domains under one account. Additionally, connecting to Google Search Console is vital, or else you cannot use Grow Flow. If you do not wish to connect, you can use other [SurferSEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/) features instead.  ## Final Say  Several applications and software are constantly updating, allowing you to generate more easy and rapid solutions to improve your digital content without compromising its quality.  With [SurferSEO’s Grow Flow](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surferseonew/), you are guaranteed a more reliable and efficient way to improve your articles, rank well on search rankings, and drive the visibility you aim for your brand.  In the comment section below, let me know whether you have tried using Grow Flow and how the experience was for you! Liked this article? Know more about SEO as a marketing strategy by reading the articles below: 1. [How To Use SEO As A Strategy To Create Site Structures?](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-as-a-strategy-to-create-site-structures/) 2. [The Best SEO Tools for 2022 (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) 3. [11 Simple On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) --- ## Want one of these running in your stack? I'm [Alejandro](/about/) — I build AI agent systems for founders who'd rather ship than slide-deck. The site you're reading is one of them: an agent ports my content, generates the OG cards, picks the trim list, and writes most of the boring 90% of marketing ops. If a loop in your business is silently bleeding hours, [scope an agent build](/services/#agent) — or [see how this one runs](/agentic/). --- ## Dispo: The New Photo App You Must Try Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/dispo-the-new-photo-app-you-must-try/ Published: 2022-05-11 Updated: 2024-05-23 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: What separates it from Facebook and Instagram, which both allow you to capture and share memories, is that each photo you take must be taken using the app. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Do you want to be fully present and share your true self with others? Take ten or a hundred pictures and share them on rolls with your buddies. Learn more about Dispo and how you can bring a personal touch to your day with a single swipe. If you are a Gen Z or part of the Millennial generation, or if you spent some time over the weekend reading the newest tech stories, you’ve probably heard of Dispo. Do you recall the era of disposable cameras? They’re making a comeback but will access everything online this time. Dispo is the contemporary version, and it’s entertaining. I’ve listed down everything you need to know about Dispo below, including who created it, how to download and use the app, and much more. Let’s begin with the basics! You can also check out this video to have a walkthrough of the app: ## A Little Background On The Dispo App “Capture and share moments” is the tagline for Dispo. It aims to let its users live in the moment. Originally, the app was known as David’s Disposables. What separates it from Facebook and Instagram, which both allow you to capture and share memories, is that each photo you take must be taken using the app. It develops the next day and receives it at 9 AM local time. The app is also less social.  It’s a basic camera application for creating vintage-inspired photos. The ultimate result is a snapshot that feels more genuine. The photographs are more raw and authentic than the filtered, manipulated photos [Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-growth-hacking-techniques/) users have gotten attached to seeing. Finally, you can’t edit or post any of your photos shot with Dispo. ## The Creator Of Dispo David Dobrik, a YouTuber and social media sensation developed the [Dispo app](https://www.forbes.com/sites/goldiechan/2021/02/24/how-dispo-helps-us-tell-nostalgic-and-connected-stories/?sh=6391684d76b6). Dobrik started Dispo in late 2019 after leading The Vlog Squad on [YouTube](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-rank-your-youtube-videos/). Dispo’s look is more raw and unpolished, something Gen Z has come to enjoy on social networks. [Dobrik](https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattklein/2021/02/17/is-dispo-david-dobriks-new-app-and-the-past-our-tech-future/?sh=53216ec42437) said that the concept for Dispo came to him after he saw his pals shooting pictures with real disposable cameras at parties. The final output was not filtered or modified in any way. ## Getting Started On Dispo If you have an iPhone, be prepared to shoot once you install Dispo from the App Store. You’ll be asked to create a username when you first launch the app, and you’ll be able to customize your profile with a photo, display name, and bio. After that, it will direct you to the main camera page. If the camera icon at the bottom of your screen is lit up green, you’re on the main page. The camera resembles an old-fashioned disposable camera with minimal picture functions. ## How To Take Photos On Dispo You’ll find a simple zoom dial to the right of your screen that you can adjust with your finger, a flash button, and a button to capture images, in addition to a small retro-inspired viewfinder that you can use for both the front and back-facing cameras. To snap a shot, focus on what you wish to capture in the viewfinder, then press the green button below the screen. While you won’t be able to see the photo immediately, you will notice a note in your library indicating that it is in the process of being developed. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/szq_Vrf5QqIeGLNQdFh8KZTqFusDfAFL7RV4d4zHR9drhGDQ61AllKyENfK_yO9QF0Y70ETsT4mJ5j87HV8uMPby4pMwq3WO2mvfmBQPFnUxqVnS8eWG0Kqd1HV4ZbSwlaWjDaK7SriJbBUicw) [](https://www.google.com/search?q=dispo&sxsrf=APq-WBu28jdG1-u_lyY3FzTKHe-E6b4hUg:1646634623592&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjPlcH-r7P2AhWGN5QKHb1-BvkQ_AUoAXoECAMQAw&biw=1366&bih=625&dpr=1#imgrc=ePs89VJSMYcm2M) ## Navigating The Dispo App The notion of Dispo is simple, which is part of its attraction in an age when people appear to need instant satisfaction. A viewfinder, zoom settings, and a flash are all included. You can capture as many pics as you like, but they will take some time to develop, and you won’t be able to see them until the next day. Dispo users can opt to publish their photos to a solo or shared roll with other users when they appear in the app. You might also store them in your library. The catch is that there is no editing or captioning, so users can be more spontaneous with their photos. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/dTCmV4YGhOdgzqTHo_-W-6D8uaaJ8bDW8D53mNw6oBqTYXNPO2kkI4ZVvtAN0lMa19yqTxRMTgEKo1StM9I9K-u0k87_qZ7mi91umMKFhDZGG1VwUBU7iJWvD-jRzVuumyevJMqCM2_IbUkjsg) [](https://www.google.com/search?q=dispo&sxsrf=APq-WBu28jdG1-u_lyY3FzTKHe-E6b4hUg:1646634623592&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjPlcH-r7P2AhWGN5QKHb1-BvkQ_AUoAXoECAMQAw&biw=1366&bih=625&dpr=1#imgrc=lkv26tyIM8uO4M) When you’re ready to start taking pictures, developing rolls and albums, and making friends, this is the screen you’ll see. It’s critical to take the time to learn how to use the app so you can get the most out of it. It’s straightforward. You’ll see: - Zoom slider on the right - A tiny viewfinder in the middle - Flash option on the top right - Mechanism to rotate the camera upright ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/zrJLP4ob9FYJhT4MQ5y90U_M5yTgpSjPYQvTfPK9DPjO4JwYYmmSeAzB554pd78fq-2pDHgmGMQlyVvmyNRr_ABQ9ExcNuM-GqwZhm7abyvjIB1PpEaWW61Jftfs1jEVZ1yI-mhQG6yzx3haWA) [](https://www.google.com/search?q=dispo&sxsrf=APq-WBu28jdG1-u_lyY3FzTKHe-E6b4hUg:1646634623592&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjPlcH-r7P2AhWGN5QKHb1-BvkQ_AUoAXoECAMQAw&biw=1366&bih=625&dpr=1#imgrc=prC6fZXWoyMrOM) This page displays all of the photos you’ve taken, organized by date. You may also look through the tabs to see your best and stored photos. There are no options for rearranging or changing the images. It’s similar to glancing through a photo album. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/B7alfAfwndhHkk08fwkSM28NLYECyKKywcZrRFcvpTzXwP2LPM502LXDHRXF-47nbiXSPMhJINYRb5fD9H8CS783EOWVtb8ex5i-kmZR2XOhwOjkn5DgWLeRc9EWYcruSxh5Ei4wP6epvUTrmQ) [](https://www.google.com/search?q=dispo+library&tbm=isch&ved=2ahUKEwjQr6n_r7P2AhVJ6ZQKHf6VAq4Q2-cCegQIABAA&oq=dispo+library&gs_lcp=CgNpbWcQAzoHCCMQ7wMQJzoKCAAQsQMQgwEQQzoECAAQQzoHCAAQsQMQQzoICAAQgAQQsQM6BQgAEIAEOgYIABAFEB46BggAEAgQHjoECAAQGDoGCAAQChAYUKEHWLARYM8TaABwAHgAgAF4iAHgBpIBAzYuM5gBAKABAaoBC2d3cy13aXotaW1nwAEB&sclient=img&ei=gaYlYpDrEcnS0wT-q4rwCg&bih=625&biw=1366#imgrc=nLQa1beo9E_EhM) You can also make albums and where to locate them. They can also be worked on collaboratively. So, if you’re all at a party after the pandemic, your buddies can each shoot their photos and upload them to a shared roll. Below are examples of some snaps taken with Dispo! ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/DnsdAfx5JKIaohqXwBgjNwLyDxfhdihAgOd6LWvTnoSlACbzq7NbmuytGxtd4JAyTya9EcBD0JdKhwtW_pUbVmN_LRTerHariX-lqVuT8Y01ODCGgG05NtlPor91YQQ81Emv4mPUGJ8nmsbr7Q) [](https://www.google.com/search?q=dispo+app+photos&tbm=isch&ved=2ahUKEwiukpOSsrP2AhX2yosBHZzxCbUQ2-cCegQIABAA&oq=dispo+app+photos&gs_lcp=CgNpbWcQAzIFCAAQgAQyBggAEAgQHjoHCCMQ7wMQJ1DeUFirVWCEVmgBcAB4AIABXIgBuwSSAQE3mAEAoAEBqgELZ3dzLXdpei1pbWfAAQE&sclient=img&ei=waglYu6tJ_aVr7wPnOOnqAs&bih=625&biw=1366#imgrc=QvGhDX-516BK5M) ## Enjoy Your Time With Dispo By Being Authentic Just be yourself on Dispo. Authenticity is a quality that everyone values. On social media, I follow lots of brands and influencers. Though, the reality is that there are only a few that I stick to constantly. There is one thing that all of these personalities and brands have in common. Authenticity. Being real in your posts is one of the best things you can do for your social media. ### 1\. People Who Are Real Connect With Their Followers If all you see are perfectly taken photographs, flawless women, and well-composed content, you’re not going to relate to them. Have you ever followed a brand or company yet never seen a real person in their images, videos, or other content? Think about it. ### 2\. Be True To Yourself And Become Authentic Social media users are less likely to engage with a brand or a business on social media if they’re not authentic. The reason for this is that they do not anticipate a genuine response. You’ll lose friends and followers if you do that. ### 3\. Authenticity Builds A Safe Place If your brand is focused on a topic or revolves around a discourse that could lead to difficult discussions, being genuine will convince your followers that sharing is good. However, it also sets the tone for other followers to understand that you intend your social media to be that environment. ### 4\. Be Real And Build Trust When you always try to look perfect, you’ll feel disconnected from yourself and turn into a persona soon enough. You’re more inclined to trust a brand or corporation that is willing to expose its flaws or be genuine than one that is perfectly polished. ### 5\. Authenticity Promotes Community Based on their honesty, some of the most powerful companies I follow have developed a following. Those are strong communities. They support one another. You feel like you’re a part of a family rather than an internet community.  Check out Dispo’s [community guidelines](https://www.notion.so/Community-Guidelines-b66887942ca440edb011bc76f158c7e1) for more information. ## The Social Side of Dispo You may follow people, like their photos, and leave comments on them. However, you cannot send messages or do anything else, and the focus is solely on the photographs. Unlike other social networks, it does not use Facebook or other apps to recommend friends. You must locate the person you wish to follow. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Spl57VrguKjgcTLkhEWekyj4WFiJqIOTnu_o6iJeNG1YHjjrbF9aEqqXLaK1A_p_hflXHRkGQwJ6RJdPFpKliOPClHkK24j5BtBNzVnwnJKYHt03C5-W24sCpltGMqke_-UoGyRpB02Ie8dP1w) [](https://www.google.com/search?q=dispo+followers&sxsrf=APq-WBuDLebscTtaFi2LJ0Y3s_PQt46UKw:1646635383196&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjYudvosrP2AhW2rVYBHcu8DuMQ_AUoAXoECAEQAw&biw=1366&bih=625&dpr=1#imgrc=aTirWAAwrg1tXM) ## Getting The Dispo App Now, you might be wondering how you can get your hands on the app. The simplest solution is to wait until the software is available to a larger audience. You do, however, have a few choices if you want to try the app before it’s officially published. ### 1\. Purchase It Online You can find Dispo invites for sale on places like eBay. Just make sure the seller is legitimate before handing over your money.  Should you pay for a Dispo invite? Why not? You’ll also get extra invites to send along the “chain.” It’s your choice. However, do not forget that it’s not an exclusive app. It is currently limited since it is still in the testing stage. If you wait a little longer, you might be able to acquire a free membership. ### 2\. Make The Most of Your Connections If you know friends who are currently using the app, you don’t have to pay for an early Dispo invitation. When someone in your network mentions using Dispo, chat with them about their experience and encourage them to give you an extra invitation. Sure, there’s no assurance that they’ll pass it on, but it can’t hurt to try. Haven’t you met anyone on the app yet? Look at sites like Reddit, where users can extend extra invites to the larger community. ### 3\. Message Dispo There’s no reason you couldn’t approach Dispo and request early access. See what happens if you send a DM to the team on Twitter or [Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-marketing-instagram-essentials-and-content-creation/). If you agree to evaluate the app or assist in spreading the word about it, they may be more willing to oblige with your request. ## That’s About It While it isn’t the most versatile app available, the Dispo app may be worth considering if you like taking photos and trying out new things. It’s easy to use, and once you’re on the app, the photo roll feature may help you construct your “look” on social media. Despite this, it is still a new app. It’s uncertain how many people will download it, and we have no idea how engaged they will be with the platform. However, if you’re lucky enough to get or find an invite, it’s worth a shot. Please get in touch with me if you need more help with the latest technology. For the time being, I’ll leave you with the following question: What did you like about Dispo? Please let me know in the comments. Liked this article? Read more to learn new knowledge on other social media platforms: 1\. [6 Ways To Crush It On Instagram Using Growth Hacking Techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-growth-hacking-techniques/) 2\. [Twitter Scripts: Accept all Follower Requests, Unfollow, Like All Tweets, and more](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) 3\. [How to Do a Reverse Image Search on Google, Facebook, and Pinterest](https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-image-search-on-google-facebook-pinterest/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Convert Youtube Videos To Mp3? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-convert-youtube-videos-to-mp3/ Published: 2022-05-02 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: There are numerous reasons to use YouTube to Mp3 downloaders to convert your favorite music and podcasts. By converting videos to mp3, you may listen to your favorite music videos or motivational messages anywhere and whenever you want. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line There are numerous reasons to use YouTube to Mp3 downloaders to convert your favorite music and podcasts. By converting videos to mp3, you may listen to your favorite music videos or motivational messages anywhere and whenever you want. However, you have to choose the best conversion software and download it to your device. Are you looking for a way to download YouTube videos and convert them to MP3 audio files? I’m happy to announce that there is a fantastic free online application that can assist you. While most devices now accept a variety of audio formats, Mp3 remains the most popular. Most users prefer MP3 since it provides a lot more room that can be used to save more music, which is why these youtube audio downloaders exist. There is a plethora of Youtube to mp3 applications available online and offline to simplify your process. ## Why Should You Use YouTube to Mp3 Converter? Individuals use [YouTube](https://www.forbes.com/sites/rosaescandon/2022/01/25/youtube-shorts-tops-5-trillion-views-and-adds-more-monetization-features/?sh=d9cdaa0949dd) to Mp3 converters for a variety of reasons. Instead of concentrating on film, many individuals worldwide choose to listen to audio music. They’d like Mp3 files in their vehicle stereos, home theaters, laptops, smartphones, and other electronic devices.  ### It Conserves Space Video files use a lot of memory on your computer. People convert videos to mp3 files to reduce space while maintaining the audio quality. Consider this: most players have a limit on the size of flash disks. ### Sound Value Whenever you convert YouTube audio to MP3, you receive the greatest sound quality possible, just the way you want it. Most converters allow you to select the highest sound quality, up to 320 kbps at 16-bit. The MP3 downloads are in the original MP3 quality, as submitted by the owner. ### Portability Listening to video files needs a large player with a screen so you can see what you’re listening to. This is not the case with mp3 files. You can keep the files on smaller storage devices and listen to them on portable devices like mobile radios and car stereos after you convert them. ## Youtube to MP3 Converting Websites and Software Downloading and transcoding videos without the content provider’s permission violates YouTube’s terms of service. So, check if the copyright holder enables YouTube downloads before purchasing a movie, music, or podcast. Crediting the original artist or source is also a good idea if you’re using these in a movie or for commercial purposes. Here are the most reliable converters online: ### 1\. [ByClick Downloader](https://www.byclickdownloader.com/?source=alejandrorioja&innerpage=article-how-to-convert-youtube-videos-to-mp3) **Step 1:** Open your browser, navigate to the video page you want to save, and an offer message will display in the lower right corner of your screen. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/7l-NmUavZhcde5WvGxWHH-GemCvNOjCh6EYNSivZFijkF5imW2ulU3stGa5UmQ8dOuxn_ZO4GB_5qqnV0HMqkkPa_dr-U5bf9yyrtBY4Y-192Ue3ksk38PKqz38P5bAEJA1pMrYqtwTKkKE2Hg) **Step 2:**Choose between downloading a video and downloading an MP3 file. **Step 3:** You can keep track of your download in the YouTube musice downloader ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/S5g-U34ZyQMdaiygLp_qiq54khBWbaeYJkQKnXyQjb3mZVT-sxmI-wYF1jS7xMoPc3dmqkTj_ScfutOOkVZW8CDlavOLRNfuV2uBXJKGD95GV9RpcZM-V0aXCw_vy7thG3vvCGExuVizZnahSg) ### 2\. 320YTmp3  320YTmp3 is a simple YouTube converter that saves high-quality YouTube audio files. Here’s how to use 320YTmp3 to convert your YouTube videos to mp3: **Step 1:** Copy and paste the Youtube link for the video or soundtrack you want to save as  mp3 and download it into the box on the [320YTmp3 website](https://320ytmp3.com/enrX2P/). Select “Search” from the drop-down menu. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/rNsw8IND7tvwcdVJ0WHzvO873-O-Ho1ffX0S8sfy5ZLKYxv8TUPmE6RXzRi7lSX5rbGxTWp10GBKBqw7x-93sboca92SoqIREeDiDPxPgMmgMkRqKb42iR-iFPH-Pt8KR2j2XdLJOoQUwW5lwQ) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/how_to_convert_Youtube_to_MP_3_using_320_Y_Tmp3_step_1_4824ae0ca3.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/how_to_convert_Youtube_to_MP_3_using_320_Y_Tmp3_step_1_4824ae0ca3.png) **Step 2:** The MP3 download options will automatically appear on the screen. To change the download speed, use the dropdown menu. If you have a good wi-fi connection, stick to 64kbps. Click “Convert” after you’ve chosen your download speed. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yD9O6sYz6fqX0IaR48NT_gdpq9WPc89zKHF6JqLOuI7M06hKLnUbMfSh90b5vt4YZDNRSZehgj0feAvDPByl_jXp3Zi347jOxZYxHroqXhUuw1TFrQWMnIy5gGGsODPsOVlSe4uTovwzA9YHaw) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/how_to_convert_Youtube_to_MP_3_using_320_Y_Tmp3_step_3_2bc122eebe.png) **Step 3:** Converting your video to mp3 may take a while, depending on the size of your video. Click download after the video is done converting.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6GGWOhgRVZm8Kn5LbCbcGEXzgzLop3KHuanRhoqkPYHsNNyqxJ2ZVag6aQGwHzZrpVdodHKFX3cV57-9fDupRe4GUlJclaN-sDnwdhcRkyEtuNIQgUGUIY_qEMUYlNdW3OPu4DGdWpLFDcVixQ) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/how_to_convert_Youtube_to_MP_3_using_320_Y_Tmp3_step_3_2bc122eebe.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/how_to_convert_Youtube_to_MP_3_using_320_Y_Tmp3_step_3_2bc122eebe.png) **Step 4:** You can also save your video in a different audio format, such as WebM or m4a, go to the “Audio” tab and select “Download” next to the format you desire. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/t425Km7xl_zhwztwo9fEWKy5vktnIgFXCIkXNVLuQ-udEVr07VjA2kyM_AxawhVA0-A5SHeE7MeeP61kYHKmIFGgDoywg92dvEKL1-roRnQ2m1Zv7sdnYmU6TCHLLMMlWl2i-kIJq8rKx6kY5Q) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/how_to_convert_Youtube_to_MP_3_using_320_Y_Tmp3_step_4_947360d3bd.png) ### 3\. MyConverters MyConverters.com is one of the greatest options if you’re seeking a reliable web-based application to convert your YouTube videos to Mp3, notably for long-term use. You can download and listen to your music videos and YouTube podcasts as Mp3 files.  Here’s how to use Myconverters to save your YouTube videos to mp3. **Step 1**: In MyConverters.com. Copy/paste the Youtube Link for the youtube video or music you wanted to turn to mp3 and download in the box. Select “Convert” from the drop-down menu. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/AlE80KzrXdDeDLgW_mJfrM4zy3ic_Nt_nIVaIYnwlNOTNc26PR-q_Actfwt1e-wzhrWz6Yu8-L94rvGI7PUnP7bocplCFKMFmVeaT870YEmomHSScvTwz5LjqFZpQUL1PM83sMc_7Vq8fp7qFw) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-1_step2-4.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-1_step2-4.png) **Step 2**: In the Audio tab, select the “Download” option to download only the audio (only the soundtrack,  podcast, or audiobook). Please remember that your download may take some time, depending on how big the file is and your internet speed. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/soLNh7Ad0GPg_5Nfla4IOwm23ISDPr4YxoYzl-mErGD_9PnpnJRUyk1fY3_VeJnSi6hxSpAx-3z9i3dEfckqOViiOoiW0QZHezgWyy-ArANmmTytspcbLyPhjUyPNbLdgr2q8ZqjBnVnk1PYYQ) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/How_to_convert_You_Tube_to_MP_3_Using_My_Converters_Step_2_976005fe9b.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/images/large/How_to_convert_You_Tube_to_MP_3_Using_My_Converters_Step_2_976005fe9b.png) **Step 3:** A pop-up notification will appear when your download is ready. To save the file to your computer, click the “Download” option. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/7U7jM8Ci5oSX0ZqOaVXp89F0fhghi8fw89IUolcRX3xRluttJhfqDynvmALtIkL33cFdvS1hD5IFb1eJempIsUKtbuVr3Avf7QHsza6QTD_4v8dLjXFkgjf0ByzqsjUl86aT0T0_cC-nm_OX6g) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-1_step4-4.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-1_step4-4.png) ### 4\. Mp3Download MP3Download helps you to swiftly and conveniently save MP3 files from YouTube videos. Don’t try to add Soundcloud Links and anything else in this one because it’s only for Youtube. Here’s how to turn your YouTube videos to mp3 using Mp3Download. **Step 1:** Go to Mp3Download to get started. In the white box, paste the link of the [YouTube](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) sound or video you want to convert to mp3 and download, then click “Search.” ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aJ24o3VTPuMxSajpQImN3vUOWcaqfSFM3Wns28BXRzN_P7f9R_0h3wF8zqv0MLxr6hi-WoQ_eUpcjLZ9O0E1z2jqy-36Ni2hcUIZtiQCBE8mY49pxVZPLTHnUdA4X8Xz8tvC_qmEG0d-Qz_UXg) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-3_1-4.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-3_1-4.png) **Step 2:** Next, click the “Download” button next to the file size you want to download. Choose the 1.09 MB or 2.19 MB files if you prefer a smaller file size that won’t take much space. Alternatively, you can download the highest possible quality. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/INoYdhIxJ7D8qXjl9FMRHPmOwK5Rs1x0LeI6-5iZy1fHQchkAeRBaTaHXGWV8WYMYle8XdtbXA_29QKFbJ_1FdfdFKhTwPzYe-EpmUQ7BNbXTjH94WeIlO-8OF9Dym2jqxANIVoTr-ARMxJoFQ) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-3_2-4.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-3_2-4.png) **Step 3:** Even though the name of this mp3 converter suggests otherwise, this website also allows you to convert your file to other audio types such as WAV or FLAC. Simply browse to the “Audio” tab, choose the file format you wish to save your sound in, and click the “Download” button. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qC0wOJaWVBXEc-S1H61gzaUlZ27mF1fGmQmvcN0-EAgYUR2lU90_4BPESXbsRZdObj_EdHOXWxET0O0lhWAQVDsKxLpRoFthxVeNMA-OTjkPSbGhh7tDqkn9UT_fs1tFuzssb_J984kFozPVYw) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-3_4-4.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-3_4-4.png) ### 5\. YTMp3 YTMp3 offers a clean, basic design that makes it one of the straightforward mp3 converters to use online. This mp3 converter allows you to convert long videos for free. Here’s how to use YTMp3 to convert your YouTube videos to mp3. **Step 1:** Go to YTMp3.  Make sure the Mp3 option is selected in the blue box below. Copy and paste the YouTube link you want to convert in the white box. Now select “Convert” from the drop-down menu. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/KV-Q25QxKaFRCmKvWey_vgNU3kNNEwQ5r0Znla83RBKyib-tBfXfecpoha1wcugCdyEMMRWOZH2qfP1BDhHTw-zNsqllhgLIj_2Ovw1aw_WYKw16_L2SJYJzDoy7jQZOvzi18Y1KizkDGLQO6g) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-4-1-4.png) **Step 2:** To download your mp3 file, click the “Download” option. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/KvgG8D32DD8rYKpeSU0861uofJE6B7L7Sm5wyOmhbLEgSdvzj0POO9Mn55MC_vLNTIzhNHvgT6kEON2uIQ90-bRXuNaBhwfKX6m8M5MTvT_WhuB4RT-mO740l5BMo83fjxCMikC7dU4DTwH3Jw) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-4-2-4.png) ### 6\. DVDVideoSoft DVDVideoSoft has been on the market for more than a decade. It was founded in 2006 and has come a long way in developing world-class multimedia applications. An online mp3 converter may restrict your options if you wish to download mp3 videos in bulk or even audio files or music playlists. Installing DVDVideoSoft on your setup is a good idea in this instance.  **Step 1:** Search for  DVDVideoSoft and select “Download” from the drop-down menu. This mp3 converter utility is compatible with both Mac OS and Windows. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/GSm0ll0ukFspNE47bZIvNTYfotfOrOZpQwI_6PZF9uRRGYU74Fs30Y39Y4HeuGZI3OyKWEk13lxOg1IfDyhuny74giKVdhhQPgtuB4ixx0wr4YAM6LjE0kmXuy91FmsG9OUN9zgIN02Vqn9Ffw) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-5-1-4.png) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-5-1-4.png) **Step 2:** Download and run the converter on your computer. Now copy the YouTube Link you wanted to turn to mp3 and paste it into your converter’s “Paste” button. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CHkp2d5kHCL5863k-bTAkTE9mzrWKGypBDwqs9LITSFGXLFodhi8H3VtsVBmfvVOLw3KTp5U7jsiZUOFUSGURbi5Pffeb3yhiGEmaENcfqW1T6Zz04ReN_QgwgPxFs2_Jxc5XUjGyDnnNjQ5KA) [](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-5-2-4.png) **Step 3:** An Mp3 file will be created from your YouTube video. To save your converted mp3 file, click the “Download” option. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/wDutTDnsGBtu6DDYy_kP2Milia66UMwHRYPoJ_fuNG10bAMpj9piur1gJf5zBkfKYT57b9tKuvV8rKTCvRyTucfcfYIuiCkxdWt0vAMUUPSdPIyiULNiGRcL0Xcj_thL3ztqj1G-2sGhXNsF_A) [Image source](https://d2nb51khh83712.cloudfront.net/uploads/2021/04/point-5-3-4.png) ## Summing It Up So there you have it! Five relatively simple ways to convert a YouTube video to an MP3 file. All you need to do now is convert your favorite tunes and audiobooks to MP3 so you can listen to them while you’re not connected to the internet. Leave a comment below on what I should talk about on my next blog.  Enjoyed this article? Check out my other “How to” articles! - [How to make a million dollars with your e-commerce store](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) - [How to Setup Your First E-commerce Store](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/)  - [How to Sell Anything](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 YouTube and the broader video-download tools landscape changed materially in 2024–25: - **Many third-party downloaders died** after Google's August 2024 enforcement wave (4K Video Downloader and y2mate variants got hit hardest in the US/EU). Open-source yt-dlp still works. - **YouTube Premium hit ~125M paying subs** by mid-2025 — the official "download" inside the app is the path of least resistance now. - **YouTube Music** absorbed Google Play Music's last holdouts in 2024; playlist export now goes through Music's library. - For creators: **Shorts revenue share** improved meaningfully (ad share went live for all eligible Shorts channels in early 2024) — see ~$0.04–$0.07 RPM as a reasonable 2026 benchmark. The how-to in this post still works for the cases it covers; just verify the tool you pick is still up before you commit a workflow to it. --- ## Quick Guide On How To Access Website Source Code Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/quick-guide-on-how-to-access-website-source-code/ Published: 2022-04-28 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: The code is “read” by Google and other search engines to decide where your websites should display a certain search query in their indexes. This is a simple tutorial on how to read the source code of your website to ensure that it is SEO-friendly. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Your website’s source code is hidden underneath all graphics, content, and calls to action. The code is “read” by Google and other search engines to decide where your websites should display a certain search query in their indexes. This is a simple tutorial on how to read the source code of your website to ensure that it is SEO-friendly. I’ll also discuss a few more scenarios in which understanding how to read and inspect the appropriate source code areas might aid other marketing initiatives. Wondering what code powers your browser’s online pages? If so, you’re in the right place. This post will offer you a quick overview of how to examine the source code of your website. In addition, I will give you some pointers on navigating and grasping the many concepts utilized in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. I’ll also show you how to locate these codes if you’re unsure where they are!  You’ll be able to observe how your favorite sites function behind the hood — and even make adjustments yourself – after you’ve gained this expertise. So, read on! ## How to View Source Code As an Entrepreneur, Growth Marketer, and Computer Scientist, I find myself looking at the source code of websites all the time. It’s a good idea for any marketer to do so. No matter how many [SEO campaign tools](https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryjuetten/2021/06/15/seo-tools-to-increase-website-traffic-moz/?sh=2da7600170aa) you have, you’ll find yourself going through a website’s source code, either to check on something or to do an SEO audit. If you know what to look for, you can spot areas for improvement and any SEO mistakes that might cause future organic exposure issues. The source code is easy to access. Depending on your platform, browser, and operating system, you may do it in various ways. ### PC #### Firefox  CTRL + U (Press the CTRL key  and hold it down, then press  “U” while continuing to hold the CTRL-key.) Alternatively, go to the “Firefox” menu and choose “Web Developer,” then “Page Source.” #### Microsoft Edge CTRL + U is the shortcut key. Alternatively, right-click select “View Source.” #### Chrome  For the shortcut, press CTRL + U. You may also click on the strange-looking key in the top right corner with three horizontal lines. Then pick “View Source” from the “Tools” menu. #### Opera Press CTRL + U for the shortcut. You may also pick “View Page Source” from the context menu by right-clicking on the webpage. ### Mac #### Safari Press Option + Command + U for the keyboard shortcut. You may also pick “Show Page Source” from the context menu by right-clicking on the webpage. #### Microsoft Right-click and choose “Page Source,” or go to the “Tools” menu, pick “Web Developer,” and then “Page Source.” The keyboard shortcut is Command + U. #### Chrome Go to “View,” then “Developer,” “View Source,” or right-click and pick “View Page Source.” Option + Command + U is the keyboard shortcut. ## Important SEO Elements To Check You’ll need to learn how to search for items in the source code once you’ve learned how to view it. In most cases, you’ll use the same search methods to explore the web application to search your source code.  Additionally, you may rapidly examine your source code for crucial SEO features using commands like CTRL + F (for Find). ### 1\. Title Tags On-page SEO’s holy grail is the title tag. It’s the most crucial aspect of your codebase. How does Google give you results when you search for something? The title tags of the websites you’re pointing to are the source of all those results. You won’t show up in Google if you don’t have title tags in your source code (or in any other search engine, for that matter), believe it or not! In addition, title tags are essential for inclusion in search engine results. Still, Google also uses them to identify [crucial keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) in your content title related to consumers’ searches to increase traffic to your website. If you want a website to rank for a certain topic, make sure the title tag contains terms that define the topic.  One more thing to keep in mind: each page on your website should have its title tag. You should never duplicate this content. It’s simple to check each title tag for originality in a small site with only 10 or 20 pages. But If you have a bigger one, you will want assistance. Ubersuggest will do the work for you. [Click here](https://alejandrorioja.com/ubersuggest-review/) to learn more about Ubersuggest. ### 2\. Meta Descriptions ​​The meta description tag is also a crucial element of the head section of your website. This 160-character [snippet](https://alejandrorioja.com/importance-of-featured-snippets/) is a promotional ad that appears in search results beneath your title content. Hundreds of websites have entirely disregarded this tag. It’s simple to locate in your code: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/8mbpbDe4eNTe8az0PvmfvWqibGqt59RSKd_VvYso1n3SrwxkGAZVpSRe9iTXBp7QX-w8Ax6fRSO7X_A30OJMKTsS3vXmAARxM0y49kRThfQMZeP5H5g7NDAGiGNNAuHyrX_WQ4NY) Make sure it’s visible on all of your websites. More importantly, double-check that it isn’t duplicated on several pages. Duplicating meta tags isn’t a punishment from the search engines, but it is a massive advertising error. Many people overlook the meta description, yet it is important to consider it because search engine users view it. ### 3\. H1 Headings Because H1 headers have some on-page SEO weight, it’s a good idea to double-check your sites to ensure you’re using them correctly. Examine the source code for every page on your page to see if you can find this tag: [![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HWUuw04oGUu7zSkf0YCXpcN0yLWBysBICpUT_eJUxDomPn8Jfe4i-oymIo6IKxFU6wiJhbQRwGh10EzitEyFqsVilGF1Hap64fUKufDJkapgs7YYFvTNaom0rDHz4TflbMNagspt)](https://seonorth.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/h1-code-example-1024x72.jpg) [Image source](https://seonorth.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/h1-code-example-1024x72.jpg) H1 tags are your site’s titles; they’re the first thing visitors see when they get on your website, so make them interesting and informative, or they’ll leave and go someplace else. You should use only one H1 tag on each page; HTML5 currently allows multiple H1 tags, keeping it to one per page. It’s also critical not to overcrowd your H1 with vital terms since this will appear odd to readers and may result in a penalty from Google’s algorithm. As shown above, look for the word

--- ## Reasons To Add BrickSeek To Your Tool Kit Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-brickseek-and-how-to-use-it/ Published: 2022-04-26 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: E-commerce ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line As a consumer, finding a website that you can use for researching dropshipping product ideas can be beneficial. BrickSeek is a popular and user-friendly platform that can help you save time researching other alternatives.  It allows you to directly purchase from the website with a tracking option, price checker, and availability of products. This way, customers can get a chance to track their orders, find the best pricing of products, and find the best offers.  Overall, this service aims to direct shoppers to the largest retailers such as Office Depot, Target, Lowés, and Target. BrickSeek is a tool that helps you find the best deals on new and existing products. It’s an easy way to compare prices, track down hard-to-find items, and save money! This means you’ll never miss out on another good deal again. In this blog, we’ll discuss everything about BrickSeek, including the benefits, ways to use it, and special features. Keep reading to learn more! ## Is BrickSeek Legitimate? BrickSeek is a legitimate [platform](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) for checking product inventories low in stock and can search for deals across various retailers. However, note that even though it is a useful tool, it can still be fallible at times.  The service is not officially affiliated with major retailers, which means product information might be outdated.  Also, BrickSeek often reminds its users that the site is not to be used as a price match tool, and discrepancies may arise between the store supplies and BrickSeek’s data.  Still, it’s a great way to create an inventory research foundation when shopping for anything new. Knowing Target’s restock schedule and Walmart’s clearance pattern can make a smarter consumer. Just don’t be dependent on it too much during big sales like St. Patrick’s Day or Black Friday, as stocks on those days can change in a blink of an eye! ## Benefits of Using BrickSeek Consumers should consider using BrickSeek to save time searching for local products, here are the other benefits of using it. ### 1\. Discovering Hidden Inventories A good advantage of using it is discovering local stores’ hidden inventories. It’s because some employees may not be aware of certain items available in their store. This service can show you the product barcode’s last 4 digits that stores use to scan items when stocking and selling online. Also, the website can find out what sells well at other places and see if there is an item on sale closer to you.  All this information can help you decide where to go first instead of spending your time visiting every store. ### 2\. Time-Saving BrickSeek will do all the work for you with its inventory checker feature. You can find all the stores offering the best deals in just a few clicks. Also, you can see whether the products you are looking for are available in stock or not. ### 3\. Money-Saving BrickSeek is money-saving in a way that it can show you every product’s best deals. You can also save [money](https://alejandrorioja.com/personal-finance-101/) from commuting from every store.  These two reasons are often enough to make the platform a part of your tool kit, whether you’re a consumer or a merchant. [![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BCXF2wH_WZd1NRGS2OUMJ2_VERdM3bhon6EVbGyLHfWXwh1t7QRNAc72HocbmGbNR1diKriSRs-LDX7B6YXRzNHTi4WBhURY6TD1GG1DzjZnpu3jREXaUl70KRwlFfuFKjqr8xKPYyzKnsXaHg)](< https://res.cloudinary.com/business-web-admin/image/upload/v1625208425/blog/brickseek-tranding-page-bwa-media-01.png>) [Image source](https://res.cloudinary.com/business-web-admin/image/upload/v1625208425/blog/brickseek-tranding-page-bwa-media-01.png) ## How to Use BrickSeek Now that you have learned about the legitimacy and benefits of using BrickSeek. You are now ready to learn the ways to use it! ### 1\. Visit the BrickSeek Website The first thing to do is visit the BrickSeek website. There, you can browse the latest deals on the home page and search for specific products. Here are the links you can check out to browse your favorite store’s inventory: - [Lowe’s inventory tracker](https://slickdeals.net/?prop=sdarticleid-32337&u2=https%3A%2F%2Fbrickseek.com%2Flowes-inventory-checker%2F) - [Amazon Inventory tracker](https://slickdeals.net/?prop=sdarticleid-32337&u2=https%3A%2F%2Fbrickseek.com%2Famazon-inventory-checker%2F) - [Target inventory tracker](https://slickdeals.net/?prop=sdarticleid-32337&u2=https%3A%2F%2Fbrickseek.com%2Ftarget-inventory-checker%2F) - [Walmart inventory tracker](https://slickdeals.net/?prop=sdarticleid-32337&u2=https%3A%2F%2Fbrickseek.com%2Fwalmart-inventory-checker%2F) - [Office Depot inventory tracker](https://slickdeals.net/?prop=sdarticleid-32337&u2=https%3A%2F%2Fbrickseek.com%2Foffice-depot-inventory-checker%2F) ### Enter the Product Information ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/HNCVi3l5K9kT9RGVjmeq-0_1Ey4N0D1Vv4m-jOZqNJRTGJXHHiou51ojPy6zfs9KkN5oR7a07BtwbNtut1Xay6w2MbG7Y25NA-G4nGiRL8ecWVZgEiGTz5IVmfZpjpJrVMyh_HNmWORNXYLKPA) [Image source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/brickseek5.png) You need more information on the products aside from their name to search for a specific item. To get the best results, you’ll need metadata such as the product’s UPC, SKU, and model number.   In addition, BrickSeek also lets users filter out products using zip codes to get the deals nearest to their location. Click on the “check inventory button” after entering the product information to let BrickSeek give you information on: 1. Products’ best deals and price 2. Local stores having the products in stock 3. Number of stocks available in stock for every store Note that some minor discrepancies may occur in rare cases of server lag or miscounts after updating the inventory. #### How To Find the SKU Number ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HDjObJgXoTMFxVQdgutmKCAE1IlndnU-HIUI5YPVcfVxTOL8aeieOFgFXXC6ENLR_hiYuVoZDAbPUgbDYoUV7rnxWYz08yoDeoGjbx6fjuyOGo-iNb9a1WnKXQyd0C6cWGJFaIBwW3VNcg6Uvg) [Image source](https://slickdeals.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/inbody_brickseek_sku.jpg) If you want to browse products from Walmart, you can find their SKU by searching for the product on Walmart’s website and then clicking on the product URL. The 6 to 8 string of numbers at the end is the SKU number. #### How To Find the UPC  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q4u-5onkiqlmB-s-DXSXcdwXh4vBv2TeQhT1j-F3InhGm28uTxcjCIEK8zLiJ85Ur-YE8jz71xrenbs216_3N5icwPc9aJcAA60UVOZEKUqIEYudLGBI0kIP8rDf0rXuTI-ZKNnaJOIcE5sG8w) [Image source](https://slickdeals.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/inbody_BrickSeek_upc.jpg) It might be trickier to get the UPC, but it’s possible. Here are the steps to find it using the Walmart website. **Step 1.** Go to the Walmart website’s item page. **Step 2.** Press CTRL + U on the item page. (Command + Option + U for MAC) to access the HTML source code. **Step 3.** Click CTRL + F to open the word finder **Step 4.** Type “UPC” on the search bar. **Step 5.** Keep clicking next on the finder until you see the actual UPC number. It’s a long string of numbers following the “UPC” letters. #### How To Find the Model Number There are many ways to track down model numbers for the products you are looking for.  Online listings usually have the model number on the product website page. You just have to visit the page and do another CTRL + F search to see the phrase “model” to find the model number easily. ### 3\. Check the Stores With Your Items in Stock After entering all the product information stated above, BrickSeek’s stock check will show you the prices at every store location. Not everyone will have the data that BrickSeek requires because miscount, unreliable local store, and clearance products can lead to inconsistent numbers. Special coupons and a single viral promotion can plunge into a product’s inventory before the servers can be fully updated.  On another note, if BrickSeeks says that the product is not available, quick visits to the in-store clearance section are your last option. ## Features of BrickSeek Aside from everything stated above, that’s not all BrickSeek can do. Here is a list of features to find the best products in your area. ### 1\. Stock Changes Another feature is its ability to help consumers compare prices at different locations and stores.  These updates are exactly what help people seek the best deals at the best locations. Also, individuals using BreekSeek for retail arbitrage can enjoy this feature as it can help them set the prices more accurately. ### 2\. Inventory Checking The most used feature is the [inventory](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2018/10/17/five-ways-to-improve-your-inventory-management/?sh=7b2bf72f2b7d) checker because it can help you find the best product in real-time. Also, it can help you find your area’s best deals, hidden inventory, and store availability. ### 3\. Item Markdowns The markdowns feature can be utilized by retail arbitrage deals and consumers to track the item’s retail price or if the item has been marked down. Also, it can show you additional information like recent detection timestamps, the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices, old and new prices, and stock status indicators. These are all essential information to know if the deal or products are worth investing in.  Lastly, this feature can help you prevent getting tricked by local stores that might have increased their prices so it would appear to have been marked down.  Overall, this tool can help record prices the products have been marked at and help you get real and [honest information](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/). ## BrickSeek is the Consumer’s Best Choice The BrickSeek platform is a user-friendly tool to help consumers land the best deals on products in their area. It’s an ideal starting point if you want to compare your mortar stores and local brick against one another for comparing prices. Whether used as a standalone site or a tool for supplementing your shopping search, this application can make finding deals more convenient than ever before.  I hope you got everything you need to know to use BrickSeek more effectively! Like this blog post? Check out our other marketing articles! - [Understanding The Basics Of Demand Generation Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/demand-generation-marketing/) - [Top 8 Facebook Ads Tools That Can Help You As A Marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-facebook-ads-tools-that-can-help-you-as-a-marketer/) - [How Pinterest Story Pins Can Improve Your Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-pinterest-story-pins-can-improve-your-marketing/) Leave a comment so we can get an idea of what to cover next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Do I Need To Hire Writers for Niche Websites?—Top 15 Job Boards Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/do-i-need-to-hire-writers-for-niche-website-content/ Published: 2022-04-20 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Productivity TL;DR: In our search for the perfect hiring system, we spent upwards of $100,000 and sank innumerable hours into R&D. But we got our answer at last—we had Workello! ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. **The secret to hiring better, more affordable niche writers is to source and test more candidates.** Learn [how Workello helps content teams hire better, more affordable niche writers](https://app.workello.com/page/compare).  ***It Takes a Lot of Work To Find a Suitable Writer for a Particular Niche—We Know From Bitter Experience*** Before we had created our automated hiring system, we were a small, industrious content agency that wanted to operate on a bigger scale. **We had our break in 2019 when we undertook a content project for a VC-backed client that required us to grow their organic traffic** [**from 1 to 1,000,000 monthly visitors**](https://workello.com/0-to-1-500-000-per-month/)**.** The project was a huge win, and it turned into one of the greatest [SEO success](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) stories in the content market! But this would’ve been impossible with a one-man team. As demand for our articles skyrocketed, we had to expand our team from 1 to 45+ writers and editors—in just 18 months! Scaling a team to such a size wasn’t easy, and we started encountering difficulties as soon as the first applications came in. They arrived in such great numbers—and from different job boards— that it became impossible to log them all efficiently. Many candidates failed to get an answer from our HR team on time, and a good number of them grew disinterested and left. Some applicants submitted their portfolios via email, while others relied on a plethora of various platforms. The applications arrived in varying formats—some in Word, others in pdf.— entangling the whole situation even further. In the middle of this mess, we decided that the only way forward was to devise our own solution. We had to—there was no ATS around that could single-handedly fix all of our issues! **In our search for the perfect hiring system, we spent upwards of $100,000 and sank innumerable hours into R&D. But we got our answer at last—we had Workello!** In the next 15 minutes, you’ll learn why you need a qualified writer for niche website content—and how Workello can help you optimize your funnel to hire those writers quickly and at a reduced cost! ## Best 15 Hiring Platforms To Find Niche Writers **We used numerous hiring websites in our search for quality writers. Here’s a table showing our 15 favorite ones for finding niche writers:**
Job BoardPricing per Job AdProsCons
Freelance Writers Den$25 per monthInexpensiveUser interface is easy to navigatePortfolios are available in publicLacking a free trialSmaller candidate base
LinkedInFree of chargeSponsored ads cost $5 dailyPosting ads is freeCan integrate an ATS easily Can be used to set up interviewsPopular platform among niche writersEasy Apply feature leads to dozens of incomplete application formsPremium ads can’t distinguish specific audiencesCandidate tracking functionality is a paid feature
Monster$279+User interface is easy to operateLarge candidate baseGreat candidate tracking functionalityModifies services based on company size Too many inactive candidate accountsCandidate profiles often lack in-depth information
Fiverr5% fee of the settled hiring costUsed by writers specializing in various nichesEase of usePublic candidate evaluationsPoor writers can promote themselves if they pay extraExpensiveAgencies have to apply with individual candidates
Glassdoor$219–$599 monthlyCompany profile is visible in publicCan check out salaries offered by competing agenciesVast talent poolToo many spam emailsExpensiveBad tracking functionality
Upwork3% of the hiring feeExcellent site for hiring niche content creatorsInternational candidate poolSuperb choice for finding freelancers and part-time writersFees progressively become expensiveHard to distinguish between good and bad writers
ProBlogger$300+ monthlyUsed exclusively by niche writersLarge audiencePriceyDifficult to sort out writers
IndeedJob listings are cost-freePremium ads range from $0.10 to $5Ad posting is freeUser interface is easy to manageCan review candidates’ portfolios before reaching outSome automationLarge base of skilled niche writersPoor filtering functionalityRejected candidates can apply againToo many spam newslettersSponsored ads can become expensive
We Work Remotely$19.95 each monthLarge number of experienced niche writersSimple to useOffers pre-vetted job description templatesTop 100 companies of their choice get free promotionsFewer junior writers
All Freelance Writing$19.95 per monthUsed by various niche writersExclusively used for freelancing work
FlexJobs$399+ Responsive customer support serviceExcellent for remote writersMost candidates are in the IT businessBecomes priceyLacking a free trial period
Contena$99 for each job listing you postGreat for finding junior candidatesDedicated to writers specializing in various types of website contentSmaller number of seasoned writers
SimplyHired$9.99 for each applicant you reach out toCandidate-sorting functionalityAble to set up interviewsLacking automated communicationDoesn’t integrate well with any ATS
PeoplePerHourPosting job ads is freeAd promotion starts at $15Freelance writers available in all price rangesWorldwide audience Can check out ratings and review history of candidatesFees can quickly become too expensiveSub-par technical support if you run into any errors on their platform
Hubstaff TalentFree of chargeLess competing job adsFreeSmaller number of job seekers
## Hiring the Right Writer for Your Website Niche Is an Uphill Battle Post your job ad on any platform, and you’ll soon realize that most of the candidates who apply are unqualified for the role. Why? **Because talented writers who know their niche inside-out don’t stay on any job board for long.** Depending on the industry they specialize in, their skills and expertise are in high demand among content agencies—they swallow them up as soon as they spot them! Since the competition is so fierce, you have to identify a suitable candidate and extend them an offer fast. Doing this requires you to dig through hundreds of portfolios and test dozens of applicants. **It’s a series of tedious tasks without process automation—we learned that from experience.** The platform we started out with was Upwork, though we soon branched out to LinkedIn and numerous other websites. Regardless of where we turned, the same issues kept recurring: - Tracking candidates by their status in our hiring funnel was impossible - There were no configurations for finding writers for specific niches/industries - Candidates’ portfolios gave us a bad estimate of their actual skills Soon, we began receiving applications from a variety of other hiring networks, including Glassdoor, Indeed, Facebook, FlexJobs, and so on. With each new one we relied on, another problem cropped up. We couldn’t: - Log every application or get back to each candidate on time - Follow up with niche writers who piqued our editors’ interest - Keep track of applicants whose portfolios seemed good - Effectively filter out candidates who don’t meet our hiring standards It was passion and effort that made Content Distribution succeed—and there was absolutely no effort going into our hiring process! We decided to turn this around. **After dedicating the same amount of effort that went into our content production, and investing many thousands of dollars, we eventually developed a fully automated hiring funnel that specializes in hiring writers for all market niches!** ## Why You Need a Writer Who Specializes In Niche Website Content **Any writer who has sufficiently mastered the language can create content, but not every writer possesses the adequate knowledge and experience to write about niche-specific topics.**  Having an industry expert on your team can bring value to your business in many ways. For one, they can set a reliable benchmark against which you may measure future articles written for the same niche. Second, you won’t have to invest [time and resources](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tips/) teaching junior writers the ins and outs of the industry. A writer who is already familiar with it will perform far better in the role.  There may also be tasks that require an intimate understanding of niche-related jargon, which an outsider will have a hard time navigating. Hiring a niche writer will yield you more professionally-made content—and this is precisely what will distinguish you as a company with a high-quality standard. ## Hiring Funnel of a Top 1% Hiring Agency ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/akWeGYZ3rYpoRrShVm6yZcm8mqDgYHvXeF6rxQk-O549tQnOYmyQWqgTvnc-EfitmOG4ZfZvoLNua_1Tubta2Be0fIFNzJyPeD0RUdJ8hjdkOaXs0eVXHQuBnVyycH0rhNJSZIfy) **To fix a problem, we first had to identify it. We went back to the drawing board and reanalyzed our entire work process up to that point.** This was our thought process: 1. To turn a profit with our content, we had to publish hundreds of top-notch articles monthly 2. Only top-performing writers with knowledge of the industry could write articles of a high standard 3. To hire the best niche writers, we had to sort through hundreds of resumes and test dozens of sub-par candidates 4. Identifying a good niche writer meant quickly spotting and disqualifying bad ones from the selection process 5. Our hiring system lacked the functionality to easily filter out poor candidates with outstanding resumes We were receiving applications day in and day out—that’s something we never struggled with. What troubled us was deciding how to handle them when they arrived. That’s when we began composing a list of components our new hiring funnel had to include. **We needed a comprehensive system that would streamline every key feature, such as:** 1. A rock-solid platform that would serve as the only access point for all applications regardless of their source website 2. A fine-tuned candidate sorting system that could let us update their status in our funnel with one click 3. A single dashboard for evaluating, testing, scheduling interviews, and hiring the most proficient niche writers 4. An automatic test that would allow us to spot poor writers at a glance 5. Automated communication that would let us provide our candidates with instructions and regular updates on their status without the need for manual correspondence **For our first model, we tried the combination of** ***Google Sheets + Google Forms + Zapier.*** **It was a significant improvement, but we wanted to develop something much better. Countless iterations later, we had precisely that—with Workello!** ## A Clear-Cut Job Description Lets Candidates Know Whether Their Abilities Match the Role **To get the attention of the right kind of writer for your website niche, it’s necessary to compose a detailed job description.** This document should cover every responsibility and requirement that the role entails, such as: 1. The industry they have to be familiar with 2. Their qualifications and niche-related credentials 3. The number of articles/words they have to write per day 4. Their level of education You should be specific with your demands, and don’t worry about being too exacting—if the job specifications discourage a candidate, they probably realized that they lacked the needed skills or experience. Simultaneously, seasoned writers with lots of experience under their belt will be all the more encouraged—when they see that their skill set matches the job description perfectly! **Don’t forget to state some key benefits that experienced niche writers will enjoy as your employees.** This includes the number of PTO days per month, the possibility of higher pay rates, and career advancement opportunities. All these aspects may decide whether a skilled candidate will choose to work for your company or a competitor’s! **If you’re looking to swipe a template for your job description, feel free to use one of ours.** You only need to adjust it according to the particular requirements of your website niche, and you can use it in your job ad without any problems! 1. [Content Writer](https://workello.com/content-writer-job-description/) 2. [Writer](https://workello.com/writer-job-description/)  3. [Technical Writer](https://workello.com/technical-writer-job-description/) 4. [Digital Content Writer](https://workello.com/digital-content-writer-job-description/) 5. [Copywriter](https://workello.com/copywriter-job-description/) 6. [Freelance Writer](https://workello.com/freelance-writer-job-description/) 7. [E-Commerce Content Writer](https://workello.com/ecommerce-content-writer-job-description/) 8. [Staff Writer](https://workello.com/staff-writer-job-description/) 9. [Law Firm Content Writer](https://workello.com/law-firm-content-writer-job-description/) 10. [Senior Writer](https://workello.com/senior-writer-job-description/) 11. [Course Writer](https://workello.com/course-writer-job-description/) 12. [Website Content Writer](https://workello.com/website-content-writer-job-description-nonprofit/) 13. [SEO Writing](https://workello.com/seo-writing-job-descriptions/) 14. [Catalog Writer](https://workello.com/catalog-writer-job-description/) 15. [Business Writer](https://workello.com/business-writer-job-description/) ## Distribute Your Job Ad Across the Internet **When we began scaling our writing team, we didn’t have an expert in charge of the recruitment process.** We delegated this role to our editors and managers instead. This additional task wasn’t difficult, but it distracted them from editing and managing content. Gradually, our content production started to drag at a snail’s pace as more and more of their time was occupied with posting job ads and reviewing tests. This was too inefficient and time-consuming, so we decided to hire a Recruiting Officer. But before we could do that, we had to properly document our entire hiring process and instruct them on how it worked.  We had to divert even more time and resources, but there was no other option. **We spent hours gathering the required documentation and eventually had everything needed to delegate the job to a professional. Now, you don’t need to waste time doing the same!** ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EJdFIsBS8v_ZTVpaMq0GZmjFOj6EhyA-rea71T2_Zz_XunjdxGWnQKNPYylm8bPPRdPWiMev2MO8327Mc9iEqlZ92eTZpYx_2KWQF8aEurf6zNNRKEiQsySgV_mhP2C7DoaizjQG) **Once you register for** [**Workello**](https://workello.com) **for free, you’ll be able to access our documents, which you can use to delegate the recruiting role to someone else!** ## The Workello Dashboard—One Point of Entry for All Your Applications! Our dashboard acts as the single entry point for all applications, regardless of the site where a candidate applies. **No matter how many job boards you use, a job ad with our Workello-hosted application form automatically redirects all submissions to your Workello dashboard!** This form also ensures a consistent format for all applications, ensuring you’ll no longer receive documents that lack crucial candidate details. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/RZcD2Po0wtd_YK_A3B-kK9q41wrlDyXKTQJ5bP6b8vhO077kKbZ95gIDleCnGyelK9oDgUBeC-N5UkOHOrTbNyC9QlWM8QC_Vvb9CGoYPhFPXlUrz02ua8ZXQPBIpMsii61goi-2) Our custom application form looks like [this](https://workello.com/application-portal/-content-writer-9). ### Watch Candidates Stream In The Workello dashboard will be your only point of input for each decision you make during the entire hiring process. **Without leaving the page, you can perform every necessary step—from reviewing portfolios, distributing tests, and assessing applicants’ performance to interviewing them, and finally hiring the best-fitting niche writer for your website!** To update a candidate’s status, merely select the appropriate option from the drop-down menu: 1. Application Received 2. Application Rejected 3. Test Candidate 4. Test Complete 5. Reject Candidate 6. Invite for Interview 7. Offer Sent Each status is color-coded to easily differentiate the various stages your candidates will go through as they progress along your funnel. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4Ij_BgSqZK2mls2FnNs2L59glA3puRnBvhncu9JaF4LlX9XAuIuZ3Ul_FIss8aUzUD-NZR400OqOhGztlTCZlTp8OwcOWh7PJp7ZlURfsiPlJNSPXC2jHpGlopbGSO6LBfGO0ZU3) ### Reject Unqualified Content Writers The blunt truth is that you will receive many poor applications from unskilled or inexperienced candidates. **If you spot someone who doesn’t meet even the most basic hiring standards, you can instantly eliminate them from your funnel by choosing the Application Rejected option.** Workello will send them an automatic message informing them politely about the unsuccessful application. This automation ensures that you won’t be bothered by incessant emails from rejected candidates whom you have not yet informed about the rejection. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/CMvczsqTR2N0EHenoMBN9rxHFZxyR9ydBSQZ2hSLe_bBehEeM4Z3sZ4RoQq0gJS3IKwwMEVSV6eaVxQCVs0UUw2H2A2Vc4A2PhmWHZszathOSUNznYx6TS-b2Ejk4KQ0DHHtBOrm) ## Point, Click, Test Even if you’re pleased with the contents of a candidate’s portfolio, that doesn’t mean you should hire them right away. **Poor writers can compose deceptively brilliant portfolios if they include only the finest samples of their work**—**and only after they’ve been heavily edited!** To get an accurate estimate of their potential, you need a look at their first draft, which you can get by testing them. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/caix63eg2TCYfDIhWFLz3VKImhi5bagyDUHg6_7jXTVJfwizmFzRRwXrXyPasgspW9mPCYjXYS3JOdcpuR4pyipSPMUxJDt-vKuVcPROtbbaaelUZimvncHU81ydvyt6o-mryYta) We didn’t have a testing system in the beginning. Instead, we extended job offers based only on the quality of a candidate’s resume. This was a major error, and we wasted 1,000+ on poor content that our editors had to rewrite from top to bottom. With Workello, we implemented an efficient testing system that allows us to spot bad writers with brilliant resumes. To assess whether they are suitable for your business, select the **Test Candidate** option. This triggers an automated email: 1. Congratulating the candidate on his arrival at the testing stage 2. Including the link to the written assignment ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uFnJMMjwDMDKKIdxRguIBeb3ZMsWgUq-4wkTnf6q7GVSxGbiI4HtgsL_Qv2VLQKlyMjaFsKaBc2MKdkdd2yQ95v3VrMneoD2UPJXCSPqYPm47beEOrq0jAgcXN9xskNsuDtyCXnv) Once they go to the test, they’ll open a page that looks somewhat like this: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Isn0na5QH8e_lRlZKRD5c5xAKdDlQa5RlT89__Na5Zoc0RCP17ZPO9af4QcbkPW2bUNrbe1tK3eectDEQqFSj9b4VHDXH08CYWfiYPT0YMm1NH3XfURE5iQ5FUNymW3rAN-e54f) ### How To Make a Good Test **To properly determine whether a candidate can create quality content for your website, you need to assess the following aspects of their skill set:** 1. Language usage 2. In-depth knowledge of a particular niche/industry 3. Ability to conduct independent research on a niche-specific topic 4. Article formatting **While you should strive to make the test thorough enough to cover all these major points, it’s a bad idea to make a 3000-word long aberration that even skilled candidates will struggle with for days.** The adequate length of a good test should exceed the 800-word limit. After all—what’s the use of a test if nobody will be willing to complete it? With Workello’s automated messaging system informing your candidates about their status and providing timely instructions—you can create a more complex test! Since the entire process is so efficient and transparent, serious writers won’t mind tackling a more demanding assignment. They will do this if you give off the air of a professional company that treats its candidates respectfully. **If you’re unsure of how to compose a test on your own, feel free to steal ours. We’ve used** [**this same test**](https://help.workello.com/en/articles/5588481-how-to-set-up-a-test) **to evaluate all of our writers!** ### Interviewing Candidates Once a candidate has finished the written test and turned it in, their status automatically updates to **Test Complete**. Your managers and editors can then access the test and see how well the candidate performed. **After evaluating them, you can further change their status to:** 1. **Reject Candidate**—Sets off an automatic email that politely informs the rejected candidate about the unsuccessful outcome of their test 2. **Invite for Interview**—Sets off an automated message that congratulates the candidate on passing the test and invites them to schedule an interview appointment via Calendly ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/r8qTe7Le17HVz_m5IKRn90XITYFxZuNWxLVz0gfkZXkRxJGFXWTdVae0jtBaC1xVXqm8XzeekKB533JC4FQcNJkNU76hcuRIisnuTKgaBhDw2oWhdyfyUp2wyenito7RBjmhjXAt) ### The Candidate Status Page **Workello also provides your candidates with a convenient way to check up on their application’s status by going to the Candidate Status page.** This way, they’ll have no reason to spam your HR team with unnecessary questions. The page also has a **What to expect next** section, where candidates can stay up-to-date regarding each successive stage in your funnel. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dcLAtmZ7_JQiCrIRpC-4GNMdct6K0DGUVJUu9eibBmuz346VsKSlIYEpnN5_Wmyo0A6Uo6R9YSrtFHh9ohKtq41dICrMRO0TRu_TZco0rxXTxLfQZDrsMfEcUFtIGg_V1ARVdgMu) You can check out what the page looks like [here](https://workello.com/application-portal/contentdistribution-content-writer?tab=Your%20Application%20Status&app=1633790595511x520280887811112960). ## Our Investment Paid Off Big Time **Workello’s process automation makes hiring niche writers a breeze—every feature is streamlined for maximum convenience, so both you and your candidates will have a pleasant time!** Before Workello, hiring was a tedious process that involved dozens of repetitive tasks. Nothing was streamlined, and we had to manually post ads and then check up on them on each job board we used. Due to the sheer number of applications, we couldn’t respond to each candidate in a time-efficient manner. Many lost interest—others got hired by the competition. Our editors and managers had their hands full of recruiting responsibilities to be equally effective in their main roles. Content production stagnated, and we were caught in a downward spiral. We had to clench our teeth and persevere—there was no alternative. But you do have an alternative—Workello! **All these problems disappeared once we developed Workello! It helped us:** 1. Scale our team to 45+ writers and editors in under 18 months 2. Lower the costs of content production by up to 75% 3. Lead one of the best [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) campaigns ever 4. Allow our editors and managers to switch focus on our content production **Developing Workello cost us hundreds of hours of hard work and more than $100,000. You can now acquire it for the price of a single article!** ***Written by: Nick Jordan from Workello.*** --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 16 Best Productivity Tools of 2026: Features and Benefits Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/ Published: 2022-04-07 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line If you feel you are spending an unrealistic time manually organizing your to-do’s, it’s about time you learn about some of the best productivity tools to schedule tasks and manage projects. These tools and apps ensure that every minute of your day is productive and you are able to simplify your work processes. I have listed down the top 16 that include Slack, Asana, Coda, Trello, Notion, Hootsuite, Lastpass, and others that help me work smartly in different areas like project management, communication & collaboration, passwords, and documents management. I am also sharing tips on how to master your time and practice a 24-hour tech detox at least once a month to de-stress and achieve focus. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* Do you feel like you’re spending more time hunting down [effective ways to be productive](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tips/) than you do being conducive? Walt Disney said, “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” So here is a list of all the tools guaranteed to put you on your path to achieving greatness. Here are the best productivity tools for 2022 that are guaranteed to make sure every minute of your day is prolific. Creators of these apps know you have a lot to focus on and take pride in providing the best assistance to you. ## 1\. Slack – Teamwork Makes the Dream Work  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/sXqzK5P3i64TqfW6zXpIyFDCG5TmwOkN5k7IYA2uocEfqYCCS-uoGxmhph8ArNEuihtPTfK69va-CqbNa6izULEiSko57xUVeyy3BUFDChjwXgZkuqYn5Lt4qI-IiKoMlgIR1wuk) This is a messaging app that allows fluid transmission in communication between all participants. It has slick features that enable “group work” where members can share relevant content. Slack transcends distance. It is specially modeled to bring everyone together and keep colleagues at the same pace, despite differing locations. Discussions can be private or publicized where everyone can contribute. The software saves you time by enabling you to collaborate with data that you may link from other sites. It has an added convenience feature that allows highlighting keywords as they appear in a conversation. This productivity booster enables participants to “leave” chats they’re no longer part of so they don’t get “junk” messages. ### Top Features 1. Schedule reminders 2. Flexible communication 3. Highlight feature  ## 2\. Hootsuite – Social Media Optimization ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/yc0FeOAOBU4iX4H430xVAFFM8_5gl9WPuPTIWSYAkE1VC9v5HPMC73ygetM2xtK0Ut9isSPPD_MZCoTkuocXdi3ZR0V1JIQnebQMri_EwSL0HG8fYGc5QDy5MYMaCOaYDmrrAZIz) This app is perfect for people who need to oversee [several social media simultaneously](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/). This provides businesses with fantastic opportunities to have direct contact with their customers. So it’s essential to create posts that keep your target market interested. This app is tailored to save you time by letting you set up a timetable for posting synchronously across various platforms. Ultimately, you’ll be empowered to be consistent with your accounts while also monitoring your social influence. As a result, this means that your content remains relevant always. It enables you to control your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn pages from a single place. It also allows you to interact with your followers. Once logged in, you have the option to create a roaster, weekly, monthly, bimonthly, it’s up to you. And after that, the software creates automated posts according to your scheduling. It sounds incredible, right! ### Top Features 1. Juggle multiple socials at once 2. Schedule posts 3. Create a consistent social presence to build following ## 3\. FocalFilter – Specific Site Restraint ![](/images/posts/inline/4d5b1501-focal-filer.png) Because time is money, you’ll want to optimize yours fully. FocalFilter allows you to inhibit access sites that may detract you. Any websites added to this tool, for a mentioned time, are blocked so you can focus on the task at hand. This way, you don’t have an opportunity to procrastinate by distracting yourself. ### Top Features 1. Better work-life balance 2. Curbs procrastination 3. Boosts focus ## 4\. Trello – Visual Organizers ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Rjl89MV7ILKUCJpBjauZgwx-ar1TZ-_n_XiDZMpoXZk7Kr5JJUI8mMVrCNMkrw6MbG-ih3NJChKEMsJWlCBjGxA24b5-HSQGFfCXO8yVfv5J6EawWdSP78sF--tzoFsfl68pYd0K) It has a feature to help you keep track of your progress by checking things off as you go. You can also keep your group members filled in by updating your work as you make headway. Furthermore, this tool is useful because it grants other members access to give feedback on work shared. Features such as adding comments, coediting, and voting, render collaborative work. Trello is a handy way to order your ideas by filing data photographically with accompanying labels. It’s appealing and offers a convenient and flexible way to organize your work. ### Top Features  1. Simple interface 2. Fun stickers 3. Creative To-Do app ## 5\. LastPass – Password Safe ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xkL96mQzy9rKjGcSge-ObjywTvMthb42uT7hY95OG4pxIVwr-C_f0Xphjk5saXPSh-2U26moHri_aTGrGlfJidc3y1w54KCeQfjL8455y_N8qB88Ca44RL3ujtW0c46VYgnbuiGC) If you keep misplacing the diary with all your passwords, then this tool is perfect for you. [LastPass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) provides a secure place to save all your passwords to your accounts, so you are never locked out again. You’ll only need to remember the master password to access the encoded information. It sounds too good to be true, but it does seamlessly securely file away all your secret codes. For extra security, a premium version is available. ### Top Features 1. Secure software 2. Two-factor authentication 3. Finger Print login 4. User vault [Also read how to avoid Facebook jail here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-avoid-facebook-jail/) ## 6\. ProofHub – Scheme Supervisor  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g_8wwlcWE8O-D6gBAPuua4VZpWgtzrEIGiIW_8D5gQgg17qwZcxylCdMqQXPq4qj6vbvoEKpSFJej2NQN23JBzxUk1gekwcaeeMu52yi8o2EYhCbdQQGtNujJ3WXyt_k_A2uGKFf) It’s the assistant you didn’t know you needed. It combines progress tracking for those big projects while keeping you accountable. Think of it as an online boardroom with all team members present. Consequently, managerial tasks are significantly simplified. Leaders can keep a close eye on project progress, even from remote locations. It allows you to appoint specific tasks to individuals and monitor time distribution. Timely updates mean that no time is wasted trying to “catch up” on what everyone else has done. As if it can’t be more impressive, it is multilingual, making it the go-to tool for many companies. ### Top features 1. Organize scattered files 2. Task management 3. Time tracker Relevant: [You would also like to read my review of Calendly here if you want to simplify your routine work tasks.](https://alejandrorioja.com/calendly-review/) ## 7\. Skype – Flexible Meetings ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/JQZwbNQ_t8p2GBjJdHQgm_ivR0XkT4xpHughhlyXnt0sNSwfoZI68loRIoTipO1u857MGMpugRpaipiKLs2nDjTuF7QSkM_OaUM3ydPE586UGPyOJgbhUFVC9ZSVihEOuSQ3vC3Q) Skype allows you to take your communication to the next level via video call. Instead of traveling long distances to attend meetings in person, you can schedule Skype calls wherever you are.  It provides far conferencing benefits at the convenient ease of a click of a button, enhancing accessibility. Skype manages to meet the demands of the mobile and global workforce by providing quick and effective collaboration. ### Top Features 1. Conformable schedules 2. High quality with rich video features 3. Interactive tools for messaging [Also read how Discord -a communication and social platform- makes money.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/) ## 8\. Asana – Collaborative Coedits ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4UfYyHxLL3v4RRf7ODeYpdmfYnNQp1EUzNiF2PyYRHquiv5_3y8Yus4L71OyahihLI00Z3VADwpn2EN3kQyJpNilwZIXGFm9Ag8i-APHyv096TJ00sTjmBGa36Krta2Snd1aUBMR) This digital version of a handwritten list de-clutters virtual ‘desk.’ It keeps all ongoing work in one place and delegates responsibilities to participants. At an affordable price, you can avail of this tool, which is simple enough to use. It helps you create the best online work environment for you, while seamlessly helping you schedule deadlines.  [Asana](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/asana/) is reliable and ensures everyone sticks to their goals, accommodating up to fifteen members at once in the free version. ### Top Features 1. Links tasks quickly 2. Generous member allotment 3. Fluid interactive elements ## 9\. Airtable – Product Management ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BB0IiusUaSI9-2Ki9P0Qkoc5XsIZYJP3_gVf3_oGphq66DJ3quVOBkl-6Tz7ffbZl8l5ccxPrSBdtxnebTHNW1uFchEyBlPmGmc_W41ecPENBCnL8cKEyD-b2_xTesRDcZzZAkgK) To keep your desktop clutter-free, [Airtable](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/airtable/) allows you to construct the most conducive workspace. Its versatility ranges from designing the best project pipeline for you to giving detailed reports and pending assignments.  The sheets generated clearly show task priority, helping you be efficient by drawing your attention to what’s essential.  The customizable details include color-coding tasks and displaying individuals responsible for each and the due date. In addition to the calendar feature, there’s also a video making option to amplify the user’s experience. ### Top Features 1. Provide concise reports 2. An organized layout that keeps things simple 3. simplified categories make everything easier to find. ## 10\. Clockify – Time Tracker ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/J4SbL3iN6Z2CEpVSqPmGsJLG3OoYTc13dNFnRX6p34IyNEPo1axdgiVB-dwQm3xwSaIR2RqoCDzH-lQTiV2P1VDDYcuuDh9HqaFnq6yFkRKn30o8dTgHnWC41ibxVGr3ZBONxcPp) Clockify allows you to visualize how productive you’ve been by providing an instant overview of your billable time.  It collects data on how you spend your time, whether work-related or otherwise. This way, the summary it provides enables you to track whether you’ve utilized your time wisely.  It’s available on multiple devices, iOS, Android, Web, Windows, as well as across various browser extensions. ### Top Features 1. Effective time tracker 2. Generates a summary of time allocation for better understanding 3. Accessible on multiple devices ## 11\. Zapier – Automated Collaborator ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7eFAV6_2w-8pbQ4suWxMRyCvaKI5Tf0DyP_LFX0BdecOPvXkp_NiWmvf6UnWIq7K8kMvHbRK40tAE_D_ebbymMITdhX2JThbQwyYRruYlna3xjpCJgQ0dGWJ4A4uublvV-6gnBkV) The business app that lets you automate collaboration across various apps. With just a few clicks, you can customize it to your liking and save yourself time weekly.  Once you’ve selected which apps to zip together, any new data entered will send you a notification on synched attachments. This means that updates are accessible to everyone, genuinely allowing everyone to be their most productive selves. ### Top Features  1. Handles monotonous tasks, so you don’t have to 2. Allows communication between multiple apps 3. Synchronizes updates to keep everyone in the loop ## 12\. Monday.com – Organized Workspaces ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wZzRABW_taW7ot5OmKwniRlcupksP8bvXcuISnQtmIsZD3BTJzVHhgBLWS9TofHfCk5Tafzmwwz4pVkeKObMVVXwRWEnaL0isQEL-xMAtbK767oz4X5g2H-gpUS_NaRz4WONZ6Q4) The first day of the week requires efficiency to set the tone for everything else. And this is what Monday.com does. It facilitates workload distribution, and progress checks to keep you at your best. It gives you access to the bigger picture, with regular updates on the progress of different parts of various projects. Monday.com takes care of all your mundane tasks, so you can keep your eye on the speed your business is moving in. ### Top Features  1. Managing and tracking the workload 2. Collaboration 3. Communication 4. Data visualization ## 13\. Notion – Smart File ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ahP8Frj--eZXKJmo-XmOa6kCqomM0KBciTi5OG-LFTVmIExQWiPLpTLEnThyTP7PaXB1bXIMrkQmYoLzv_zQg35WxZG16xNFOL5OKcWcPToheMRBRBkVUcIWkE2TgKPvaSky8zTw) [Notion](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/notion/) allows you to file away all your data at the click of a button. It doesn’t get simpler than that. It combines four tools in one, so you don’t have to have multiple tabs open all at once. This saves you time and space. It allows you to customize coding styles that best reflect you and your team. This enables you to run through your To-Do list practically. Tasks and issues that have been completed can be ticked off, and so cancelled to give you a clear view of your progress. It keeps a record of everything in an organized manner that allows you to find anything when you look for it.  Notion contains smart editing tools that keep everyone on the same page. With everyone seeing the bigger picture, time will be better utilized, completing tasks and meeting deadlines. ### Top Features  1. Integration 2. Multiple views 3. Note taking 4. Tasks and projects management ## 14\. Google Suite – Multifunctional Coordinator ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/XXkaeLzj51MWegzfj_VVgC1PlzER1jHxaLcqanhIqu6Pdrve5LXUXc9FCYlvNY2jxKhEnxaEqcxgcgpYPg3a0hwof8F6XLRUwWPC4juB-qThwgGdoIcdXylsGCdVpAGUtBQdL1tW) G Suite is a multifunctional tool that comes in handy, whether you’re working from your desktop or mobile device. It combines other [Google features](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/) like Calendar, Slides, Docs, Gmail, Drive, Hangouts, allowing real-time collaboration. Any changes are automatically backed up. Users have access to making edits, and there’s a wide range of templates available. It caters to both individual and business needs, with the former being free and the latter requiring payment. A great bonus comes from the fact that Google doesn’t use G Suite for advertisement. So none of your information is stored, and there are no ads. Public calendars allow customers to view scheduled company events, allowing them to stay relevant. ### Top Features  1. Quick android access 2. AI facilitated meeting scheduling 3. Team drives 4. Meetings for teams ## 15\. Coda – Team Docs ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/V1P-R4Sc9Z-wG49SUjw6dn_n5CEFkXh01kpiSWSmb8YMmjMqhXOkNiK3kHIRHJb6CbLhylmDUpy39b3TC7qp4nyzOIFHixttb2twF-JUxnn-nrAYxIvrGoMBpPXOjrcIY8EkQMdX) [Coda](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/coda/) works, so you don’t have to. Its blend of amazing features ensures that you keep your unique style of doing things. Coda allows you to do all your work in a single document. That means you won’t need to be continually switching across multiple files, making you numerous times more efficient. It has features that allow the participant to give feedback on shared files from “clapping” to posting “thumbs up’s.” It incorporates fun tools like emoji’s and eliminates mundane tasks like copying and pasting data by creating file links. It has endless, artistic templates to get you started, ensuring that you’re just as engaged as you’re efficient. Other cool tools featured are interactive games. What’s not to love? ### Top Features 1. All in one doc 2. Build as you go feature 3. Document sharing 4. Project planning ## 16\. Zoom- Video Communication Already trusted by a number of top-performing organizations, Zoom is a video conferencing and communication platform.  It’s user friendly and does not run issues like buffers or manual adjustments.  One of the best features is that you can bring in more than 10 people into the conference call without compromising the video or audio quality which is something all of us expect from an effective communication platform.  Sharing recording and presentation is easy and this is the reason why besides other fields, it is most popularly used in distant learning and by academic institutions.  ### Top Features 1. Video and audio calls 2. Screen sharing 3. Documents and recordings sharing 4. Visual information sharing and a bonus… ## 17\. Xtensio ![](/images/posts/inline/fcf273b6-xtensio-image.png) [Xtensio](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/xtensio) is the go-to platform if you want to create and design beautiful online presentations, reports, or just about any business documents. This is a fully-packed project management tool where collaborators can share and edit files simultaneously. Xtensio can definitely increase team’s productivity with its drag-and-drop features and professional-looking templates that are made available. ### Top Features 1. Drag-and-drop elements into the doc 2. Customization to meet branding 3. Privacy controls ## Biggest Productivity Hack: Tech Detox A 24-hour tech detox is something that helps me focus, cut off from the digital noise, and reclaim my time for meaningful activities and interactions. A tech detox means that you remain away from all digital devices and be more mindful of your other experiences and activities. While it might be challenging for some, there are a few things you can do to ensure the experience is successful, to begin with: 1. Inform your family and friends about your tech detox plan beforehand 2. Plan the day around your favorite hobbies and other stress-relieving activities–meditation, cooking, reading, gardening, etc. 3. Turn your digital devices off and keep them away from your immediate reach 4. Make the most of the above productivity tools to organize and schedule work while you are on a tech detox. 5. Keep a journal and track your progress to contemplate on the experience ## Master your Time [The digital world](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) has invented an abundance of distractions. With more ways to waste our time than ever before, we’re always looking for better ways to beat the clock. So here’s my bonus list of tips on being productive. ### Make Realistic Time Allocations - Be honest with yourself: Unless you are blessed with superpowers, you cannot function at optimum for twenty-four hours. So let that reflect on your calendar. Don’t overbook yourself. - Write That List: Make it a habit that as ideas come into your head, you jot them down, so you don’t miss anything. Life is what happens when you’re busy, but nothing beats a solid plan. And once you’ve gotten to it, you’ll get significant satisfaction from ticking it off. - Busy Doesn’t Mean Productive: Being under stress because your hands are full doesn’t mean you are making substantial headway. Every so often, take a step back and look at the bigger picture and gauge where you are. If you’re running around in circles, its better to put that task down and pick up something else you know you’ll finish. Are you trying to get your work life in order by getting more done in a day? Or are you just building accountability in your personal life? It doesn’t matter. The principles are the same. Take the initiative and condition your mind to discipline. Receive help where it’s offered. Productivity doesn’t look like overloading oneself. It means prioritizing what’s important and leaving the insignificant to someone else. I hope this guide unlocks your productivity and saves you plenty of time. Let me know in the comments section which of these you’ve tried.  Liked this post? Be sure to check out my previous posts on the subject where I share more nuggets. Read about how other businesses maximize productivity, what apps they use, and what tips work for them. - [How to Scale Your Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) - [Setting up your e-commerce business from scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) - [Your guide to starting a million-dollar e-commerce business](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Download Youtube Playlist: A Comprehensive Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-youtube-playlist/ Published: 2022-04-05 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: While downloading playlists comes with easy steps, here are the benefits of having a YouTube playlist downloader. YouTube video downloaders for a personal computer are guaranteed to be convenient and fast. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line As an avid user of YouTube, there’s a high chance that you may be taking advantage of using its playlist feature for backing up your favorite songs and videos for later use. However, streaming several videos at a time can consume large amounts of data and can be a hassle without reliable internet speed. Luckily, YouTube video downloaders have emerged in the market as tools to make downloading easier for you. So, what should you do after downloading an entire playlist? Moreso, choosing videos and songs one at a time can be time-consuming. But with the right tool, all it takes is an easy few clicks! Want to watch [YouTube videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-youtube-videos/) offline? With my easy-to-use guide, I can download any YouTube playlist in just a few simple steps with my easy-to-use guide.  I’ll show you the best free online tools and how to use them to rip the videos from YouTube and save them on your computer or mobile device. You can watch your favorite videos anytime, anywhere – without an internet connection. Plus, you can keep all your favorite playlists in one place, so you’ll never have to search for them again. Continue reading and learn how I download my favorite YouTube videos! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fyudqu0zNZI ## Steps to Download Youtube Playlists After sorting and grouping your playlists, they are ready for download. Here are a few couple steps to download a YouTube playlist. Just follow the instructions below. **Step 1. Launch the program/downloader.** **Step 2. Copy and paste the playlist’s URL to the downloader.** ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xoLAAgiJGGTt6XOwCZdQROktE0ThGRVDK9pxx8HEt2KyruqdRi1IzgLBzkR5_1GFgE3ZgSUbtqNo4ZCCZcwAK5GwL2O5V37G8aHYytTzPgX5v6q4Jr-cYdnxADl5Jq9kL60xzZWe) [Image source](https://static.4kdownload.com/main/img/guide/windows/copy--link-youtube-video-playlist_windows.png) **Step 3. Choose the quality and format.** ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wX2OOFfotmIffDBXHJ0EMtsoDN0fhx4Mu_7xSt3pPja3yX36qhWwdto7DdGEJHKNxW6TfzYWxBx2Th6Vcxz2lD9YpTmPeMB0gz_QUjSSQqyoQhKcvx9bVOhW8QrxVTOHeZYaRMJ9) [Image source](https://static.4kdownload.com/main/img/guide/windows/select-quality-type-and-press-download-youtube-playlist_windows.png) **Step 4. Start downloading.** ## What are the Benefits of a YouTube Playlist Downloader? While downloading playlists comes with easy steps, here are the benefits of having a [YouTube](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johanmoreno/2022/02/22/youtube-adds-live-ring-as-it-fulfills-promise-to-beef-up-creator-tools/?sh=40e1888536bc) playlist downloader. ### 1\. Fast Downloads YouTube video downloaders for a personal computer are guaranteed to be convenient and fast. It requires users to copy and paste the video link and download it in a few minutes.  ### Time-saving After choosing a video downloader, you can have numerous movies and music on your device. Plus, you won’t have to spend time searching for them every time because the downloader can convert the files into a compatible resolution for your phone or laptop. ### Allows Offline Listening Most YouTube subscribers love listening to their favorite videos and music, but the site does not allow video downloading due to copyright issues.  Video downloaders come in, and you can find several downloaders on the internet offering different services. They will assist users in listening offline and saving on battery and data. ## What Should Look for in a YouTube Downloader? With so many different downloaders to choose from, it can be hard to decide. Here are the minimums you should look for to be on the safe side. ### Useful features Aside from downloading playlists, your video download can do a lot more than that, like being able to download videos from other websites in MP3 and MP4 format. ### User-friendly YouTube Downloaders should be easy and simple to use to prevent hassle for the users. ### Safe Video downloaders should be free from advertisements, don’t bundle any third-party software, and don’t store users’ personal details. ### Reliable Customer Support You should be able to easily reach out to their customer service and get fast responses if you face problems anytime. ## 1\. By Click Downloader (Windows) ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/2E74Vq4b9kbn4Mpgcgy2i42IciSpTuJZE4M-t0vI4v_ALrBiQFp_rMbzJpLsnY1HILxTCsX-JlONpenq7J-_lma_GjBIXVUcpNygbhIEjjJPehxbmWPjuEls8NIY8d63KMm2ojvF) [Image source](https://www.softwaretestinghelp.com/wp-content/qa/uploads/2020/12/By-Click-Downloader-1.png) The [By Click Downloader](https://www.byclickdownloader.com/?source=alejandrorioja&innerpage=how-to-download-youtube-playlist) software application for Windows allows users to download audios and HD YouTube videos. You can keep the entire video or convert it to an audio-only format like MP3. It’s easy to use because you no longer have to choose the videos one by one. You can go straight to your playlists and download them in bulk. After downloading, you can track your downloads on a clear and simple user interface. It’s free to use; however, it is limited to a single platform and not compatible with OS, Linux, and macOS. Windows users can greatly benefit from it as it’s easy to understand. Other features include - Supports HD videos up to 720p, 1080p, 8K, and 4K for speed download - Can download live videos and private videos from Instagram, Twitter, DailyMotion, Vimeo, and [Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/) - Capable of downloading entire Instagram pages, channels, and YouTube playlists in a single click - Can convert to M4A, MP4, MWV, FLV, and more ## 2\. MediaHuman YouTube Downloader ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RZupppn34J1gJrBNG40-OmeIIMmNXWvijAF61uoz8DaybrsXhZTQo7htXCubI1vc5y4qclGn7TeCub8XJ4KX4W-j2uMlQS2n7WaLYwGr3r1tCoNy_EbcQDhYx6xt7k7YFSYcyo2A) [Image source](https://www.online-tech-tips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/mediahuman-youtube-downloader.png) MediaHuman YouTube playlist downloader can only be used on desktops, so you should first install it on your computer before using it.  It is compatible with Ubuntu, Mac, and Windows. However, it only allows free downloads. If the playlist contains more than 20 files, it might not be the best for you.  A notable feature that MediaHuman offers is playlist tracking, which is not usually supported by other online playlist downloaders. Also, using this feature can allow real-time video auto-downloads from playlists once posted on YouTube.  Video formats supported - WEBM - FLV - MP4 Audio formats supported - MP3  - OGG - M4A Useful options in the settings include automatically importing files into iTunes, logging on to your YouTube account to download private playlists, and setting bandwidth control options.  ## 3\. DVDVideoSoft (Windows, macOS) ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/coCjbqYtNhHbltYxDv8HurY3d_KUi5HJRFfTDaXzJCazV5lgIhVC-KNSUKEnkJqgVTnKxyMqpvZqHyQDJ2BwO8uoLkrvOruvNHRm6J18NB6Z8C5YQ1_uNko3Xfa59T8b-ceSqF-M) [Image source](https://images.wondershare.com/filmora/article-images/6-youtube-playlist-downloader.jpg) DVDVideoSoft is a free application for macOS and Windows that lets users download their videos and playlist and convert them to their preferred audio format or view full videos.  It has a built-in [video editor](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-video-editing-software-of-2021/) to allow the convenient editing of downloaded playlists and videos.  What’s even better is the software’s developers added a FAQs section and support page on their site to let you have a resource and easily raise any questions. ## 4\. SnapDownloader ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/owUMEEfACcaPr75PLf1OwyhHilwAGiJZbLo4uA0X_4HyAI18wCON-46AQYc3WP3bk9fBvUjBzdClz5eGD1ENt_ymWZujyfOMZP5-IoudCKUHUUQDQHmbth24HStDZj4lIuphekvn) [Image source](https://images.wondershare.com/filmora/article-images/5-youtube-playlist-downloader.jpg) SnapDownloader is a video Mac and Windows downloader for many websites and offers a 24-hour free trial. It’s best for downloading YouTube channels and playlists in 4K, 8K, 720p, 1080p, MP3, and MP4.  Also, it can support over 900 websites for video downloads with a maximum of 8K resolution and can convert videos to formats of MP3 and MP4.  Other features include 1. Batch downloading 2. Downloading of VR Videos 3. Built-in YouTube search bar 4. Downloader with regular updates 5. Fast downloads ## 5\. 4K Video Downloader ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/fs5q8MBqX9vqmxoOk0oB9e8RKkAV0rAZSSDmGAlnnPk8TBKJpIV2hnDNXCdi0IiZb78rsm9ogOgrFH0ZoAssSlG1jlCI-HgX27w6Qv8Ffnw7A-2fg3taHQAwY5hpBoWvfA4m3cKt) [Image source](https://www.online-tech-tips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/4k-video-downloader.png) The 4K Video Downloader has its best features that are free, easy to use, customizable, and with no ads. What makes it even better is that it doesn’t have bundled additional software.  It can capture playlists and videos with ease. However, the limit is up to 24 videos. The video downloading is as easy as simply pasting the video URL, selecting the output format (MP3 and MP4), and waiting for the download to finish. Other features include - Captures 360-degree and 3D videos - Can extract video subtitles ## 6\. Youtubeplaylist.cc ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/lbSoditGHVqXUTkLYGBbKSEhhb_zHxZKOxf5fQWzsjFa1qF5866NEz3hpS5-MwLqtsT-LzVqnFkds8xAchbJ_XjkD7ycT1GYiEabSiz8pD2pEc5j0swI4fuEhssxzzuJKapHclfu) [Image source](https://www.online-tech-tips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/youtubeplaylist-cc.png) YouTubePlaylist.cc is one of the most sought-out YouTube playlist downloaders because it can convert videos to an audio format before transferring them to your computer or phone.  It’s a web-based platform, so it’s ensured that you can easily download your files without allocating storage for an application. However, you cannot download files in bulk, so you have to export the download link or save them one by one and use the URL in the download manager to save the playlist files. ## 7\. Videoder ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1MTSim1c5VVFK6qcp9zXIHverqZvFsCogEMiGbVYHLAH_DPDJOIPMS1GYT-on46Ou30533DIkaluxkyB00WtzPsRBfJWDszp3b4HwY6kpZylmywnRqq6GVp8hZMw1_0w2ceJ95Kz) [Image source](https://cdn.gtricks.com/2017/06/AFFIX_20170615_164847.png) Videoder for Android and Windows can easily download all your YouTube playlists and videos four times faster. The application is unique because it has its own ad blocker and built-in web browser to let you enjoy your videos without interruptions. ## 8\. VideoHunter ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Yq3VO0yGy4OMYx1chC__CTiq-U9TIHGAGXx47VkvJxn3VomElT5vykXQrin9UwyLxGwIvGuzW31ynuio16jCeLO65-YCAPG-mucYvB_NcbGaj1LaOH7bbswxSQPMBeKqB_z95Jw9) [Image source](https://www.softwaretestinghelp.com/wp-content/qa/uploads/2021/12/VideoHunter.png) [VideoHunter](https://www.videohunter.net/) is the perfect YouTube playlist downloader because it is user-friendly enough for beginners.  It’s the best application for keeping the video and audio output quality similar to the original one and can support up to 8k, 4K, and 1080p. Additionally, it can readily parse all audios and videos from the playlist at once. You have to copy and paste the playlist’s URL to the analyze bar, click “download,” and wait for it to do the rest.  Additional features include 1. Downloading subtitles in SRT files 2. Compatible with Mac and Windows  3. Can download audios and videos 6 times faster 4. Has no malware and ads ## Youtube Playlist Downloads Have Never Been Easier Downloading music from [YouTube](https://www.forbes.com/sites/emmawoollacott/2022/02/18/youtube-outlines-plans-to-limit-spread-of-misinformation/?sh=7c01751e3019) used to be a pain. But with these tools, you can download an entire playlist of songs in just a few clicks.  Plus, you can choose the quality of the video and audio files, so you get exactly what you want. Having your favorite files downloaded and ready to go is the best way to always have something to listen to.  Whether you’re on your way to work or going for a run, having your favorite tunes at your fingertips is always a good idea. Found this article helpful? Check out our other articles about YouTube! - [How to Get More Views on Youtube Youtube SEO tricks for 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) - [Top Ways To Rank Your YouTube Videos in 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-rank-your-youtube-videos/) - [How To Get More Subscribers On YouTube? A 2022 Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-more-subscribers-on-youtube/) Leave your comment so we’ll have an idea of what to cover next! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 YouTube and the broader video-download tools landscape changed materially in 2024–25: - **Many third-party downloaders died** after Google's August 2024 enforcement wave (4K Video Downloader and y2mate variants got hit hardest in the US/EU). Open-source yt-dlp still works. - **YouTube Premium hit ~125M paying subs** by mid-2025 — the official "download" inside the app is the path of least resistance now. - **YouTube Music** absorbed Google Play Music's last holdouts in 2024; playlist export now goes through Music's library. - For creators: **Shorts revenue share** improved meaningfully (ad share went live for all eligible Shorts channels in early 2024) — see ~$0.04–$0.07 RPM as a reasonable 2026 benchmark. The how-to in this post still works for the cases it covers; just verify the tool you pick is still up before you commit a workflow to it. --- ## 10 Best Conversion Rate Optimization Companies For 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/conversion-rate-optimization/ Published: 2022-04-01 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: SEO TL;DR: These have been tried and tested, helping businesses grow their conversions by up to 30% in less than a year. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line In a world where a second missed can cost you thousands of dollars, it’s crucial that you act fast. Imagine a world where you work tirelessly to boost the traffic to your website, but you simply fail to meet your sales target. Understanding that ranking for all the right keywords isn’t the end of the fight is the beginning of all wisdom. Unless you learn and apply the correct tools to convert your traffic into buying customers, your business will struggle.  Enter Conversion Rate Optimization! With the right CRO agency, you can take your online store from being all talk to making the sales you need to thrive. If your focus is only on getting visitors to your website, with zero conversions, then I can tell you this much, your growth is futile. The idea is to get visitors invested enough to become willing to commit as customers and make actual purchases.  Conversion rate optimization (CRO) increases website performance by increasing the efficiency of converting leads into customers. Working with a high-level CRO provider ensures that your website attracts and converts potential clients more effectively.  Before we get into the top picks for the best CRO agencies, here’s a short video to help you understand how CRO works: ## What is Conversion Rate Optimization? ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/H2Q6Psn_Vx1akrT0dBblEXex4z-1dPsJ9IMD22lxrLtcReUgdCxHBiS6MxChXx0taer9UeYmReohco7i5pwPHUx-dqDYdmDMv55uBn2ht6d3TuYPkXayThqbhKCgoTeWH82BZun9) Conversion rate optimization (aka CRO) is one of the most efficient and effective methods for converting existing website visitors into paying customers. The process includes various tools and tactics, but they’re all aimed at the same goal: Getting visitors to become leads and leads to become customers. It’s similar to managing a retail store. Not everyone who walks into your store will end up buying. The conversion rate is defined in percentage form and shows the proportion of a website’s visits that get converted. The formula is straightforward:  Total Transactions / Total Site Visits x 100 For example, if your conversion rate is 25%, it means that 1 in 4 visitors who come to your website ultimately convert.  The process of conversion optimization focuses on two things: 1. Reducing the amount of resistance in your pipeline 2. Increasing the worth of your offer ## 10 Top Conversion Rate Optimization Agencies ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rQjF95BQAMsBhbsQUgp8nG99U_-8_FG0KVsJC2QNOefcZUcx6HtNaDu-3WSYIZ8b4TYOPWO6Fxr6zpBYeeD6fPphigJeM1ZPd_qApWUvx47lMl5KhQ7vhs2oXMcFL2LAJ1VVS5Xj) When deciding on the perfect CRO agency to engage with, you’ll need to determine the ultimate value it brings. The right CRO firm will be able to examine your CRO requirements thoroughly. Forbes has an article talking about [how CRO can help you raise the revenue of your new business](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2020/12/22/how-to-raise-the-revenue-of-a-newly-acquired-business-with-conversion-rate-optimization/?sh=3b2f7ed616c8) you can check out. Their ability to deliver and demonstrate this information will validate their reputation as conversion rate specialists and indicate that they are a viable option. Here are some of the top conversion companies to consider when you need a working formula for your business: ### 1\. Thrive Internet Marketing Agency The experts in Thrive Internet Marketing Agency provide tailored CRO strategies while supporting you in grasping their essential function in your digital marketing success.  As one of the most experienced CRO firms with 15+ years in the business, working with them gives you access to their proven strategies. These have been tried and tested, helping businesses grow their conversions by up to 30% in less than a year. Through fixing difficulties with the site’s basic set-up & CTA cues and improving the landing page layout. The services offered include: 1. A/B split testing 2. Content Writing 3. CRO analysis 4. Heat maps verification 5. Site design and creation ### 2\. Disruptive Advertising Disruptive Advertising offers a broad range of CRO alternatives geared to the total traffic volume received by your website, with a clientele that includes the likes of Adobe. Their strategy is simple, increase sales by cleaning your website and getting rid of the clutter. Depending on your business size and needs, they’ll employ one of two options: either choosing to concentrate on a single step of your pipeline or taking on several steps simultaneously. If the initial results are satisfactory, they can provide periodic CRO monitoring or consultation.  They’ll assist you in developing a strategy for future tests if you choose the latter option. Their team of experts offers these services: - Testing in two groups - Testing with heat maps - Site performance audits ### 3\. Neil Patel Digital  If you’re looking for a mixture of highly-ranked content and organic traffic, I highly recommend Neil Patel Digital. You’ll get tried-and-true conversion optimization tactics that will turn your visitors into paying customers.  Their dream team works hard to create growth-accelerating solutions and assist you in achieving actual business prosperity by looking at the bigger picture which is omnichannel marketing.  Some of their most refined processes in conversion rate optimization include: - Organization & Strategic plan - Modeling the Customer Journey - Insights & Data Analytics - Creation of a Dashboard - Creating Personas - Optimization of Conversion Rates ### 4\. Nuanced Media In fourth place, I suggest Nuanced Media, which promises to maximize your company’s digital presence using exclusive memberships, loyalty programs, and social media sharing incentives. That way, more of your traffic will be persuaded to go from normal, zero-commitment visitors to satisfied, regular customers that actually purchase from you. Overall, they tackle eCommerce marketing efforts holistically, fine-tuning your campaigns to guarantee that no work is wasted. They’re an excellent solution if you specifically require help [optimizing your Amazon ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/). Some of their most sought after services include: - Assist businesses in launching and scaling on Amazon - Product optimization on Amazon - PPC marketing strategy - Set-up of external traffic - A/B test optimization  - listing split testing - collection of reviews ### 5\. Viral Nation Viral Nation is a multinational, comprehensive digital and social consultancy utilized by well-known brands like Twitch and Aston Martin. They provide CRO as a component of their startup services, as pioneers in celebrity endorsement marketing. With their expert team, you’ll be able to curate your success by combining strategy, creativity, media, and innovation into integrated solutions. They follow a five-step procedure while working with clients, assisting you in creating viral campaigns by performing audits, strategizing, and analysis (hence the name). Some of the services they offer include: 1. Development of a funnel 2. App development 3. Consultation tracking 4. Promoting with Influencers 5. Advertising on Social Media 6. Management of social media 7. Marketing on the Internet 8. Management of Talent  ### 6\. Conversion Conversion has assisted major brands such as Canon and Facebook in improving their traffic and conversions. They provide detailed integrated conversion rate optimization, from consumer behavior analysis to A/B testing. Behavioral research receives a lot of attention, and this information is used to [improve customization and the consumer experience](https://alejandrorioja.com/user-optimization-principles/). While the client experience is important, you must also provide your target demographic with the correct products at the right pricing.  They also provide actionable experiment-validated data to assist organizations with launching entirely new goods. Conversion’s dream team defines itself as an “experimentation agency” working hard to test all critical areas, from messaging to price to user experience. Their customers can benefit from a variety of services they offer: - An examination of Google Analytics - Training - Experimentation with products and pricing - A/B testing is the process of comparing two options. ### 7\. Inflow  Inflow is a well-known organization that assists e-commerce companies in maximizing their marketing initiatives, making them the perfect, affordable multi-service e-commerce option. You don’t interact with project managers, which is their unique selling proposition.  In fact, you’ll have direct contact with the experienced professionals you seek, providing you with more control over quick, high-pressure judgments. They provide various extremely profitable services, most effective for organizations that are already solid and profitable, though they do work with both small and medium scale enterprises. Here’s a list of some of the services they offer: 1. Search Engine Optimization 2. Conversion Rate Optimization 3. Pay Per Click Ads 4. Digital Strategy and Social Media Marketing 5. Assist large stores in optimizing their traffic-to-sale transition ### 8\. Bluetrain Inc. Bluetrain provides a wide range of digital marketing services to assist companies in achieving their goals. You can hire a skilled consultant or subcontract an entire team to help you.  They will begin by determining where your firm is now and where you want it to go in the future. After that, they’ll figure out where you need promotional aid the most and tailor a strategy to fit your needs. Some of their tried and tested services include: 1. Web design and development 2. Paid Marketing  3. Content Commercialization 4. Marketing for social media platforms 5. Search Engine Optimization 6. Analytics on the internet 7. Strategy for digital marketing 8. Training in digital marketing ### 9\. Conversion Fanatics  If you’re looking for an agency that’ll help you improve your CRO while simultaneously expanding your digital marketing, then trust Conversion Fanatics. They’ve built a name for themselves over the years, assisting businesses in increasing conversions and [social media visibility](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-growth-hacking-techniques/) for an improved social media presence.  People nowadays spend most of their time on social media; that’s why consistently increasing media channels connected to conversion-optimized sales pages is important. Not only do they want to raise your conversion rates, but they also want to increase your revenue per visitor. They feel that CRO and PPC are essential for achieving the greatest outcomes. As a result, they provide PPC services for Amazon, Google, Instagram, and Facebook. So, if you’re serious about promoting your business and converting all of your new followers, go with Conversion Fanatics and benefit from the following:  - Insights from analytics - Controlling traffic - Creation and Development of Designs - Effortless, tried-and-true designs - Analysis & Reporting - Controlling Traffic ### 10\. Trinity — Best For E-commerce Conversions One of Trinity’s many accomplishments is its work with Road Ready Wheels. By increasing the value propositions to their online store, they could raise their exchange rate by as much as 97%. Their process is built on data collecting and auditing. They’ll use the information they’ve gathered from your data analysis and user research to pinpoint the most profitable portions of your site.  Additionally, their team will work side-by-side with your business to manage the experience for users after conducting consumer experiencing (UX) audits and building a strategic roadmap. Overall, if you need the best for digital commerce conversions, then you can get a hold of some of the important services they offer, including: - Design and development of the user experience - Search Engine Optimization - Marketing via email - Optimization of conversions ## FAQs Here are a few FAQs to help you on getting the best CRO for your business: ### Which parts of your website benefit the most from CRO? Testing pages or email campaigns that affect income, either directly or indirectly, is a better use of time, effort, and money. Some of the pages on an eCommerce site that must be optimized are: - Your Home Page - A page for Checking Out - A page for adding items to your shopping cart - Thank you page for completing a purchase Traffic from these pages comes from people already sold on making a purchase (or, with thank you page, have already purchased); thus, modest changes can result in immediate revenue increases. ### Should I focus on SEO over CRO? These are often viewed as two sides of the same coin, as you can’t convert the traffic you never gathered. No one is more important than the other, and at different points, each will play a crucial part, and Business Insider talks about [how CRO is the partridge in your SEO tree](https://www.businessinsider.com/cro-the-partridge-in-your-seo-tree-2011-12). At the beginning of the optimization process, you might benefit from focusing your energy on search engine optimization and generating a lot of traffic for your website. Once you have a substantial number, direct your team to shift their attention to making sure those numbers mean something by effectively turning visitors into loyal customers. ### What’s a conversion funnel? This is a graphic representation of a person’s relationship with your company or brand from the moment they become acquainted with it until they become consumers. The four main levels are awareness, interest, desire, and action (AIDA). You’ll have various requirements of your traffic, subscribers, or buyers at each level of the funnel. ### What is a good conversion rate? There’s no exact answer, but according to Unbounce, a landing page’s average conversion rate across ten distinct sectors is 4.02%. However, conversion rates vary greatly by industry, with tertiary education landing pages converting at just 2.6% on average.  The conversion rate on landing pages for vocational education and job training, on the other hand, was 6.1 percent. [Smart Insights](https://www.smartinsights.com/ecommerce/ecommerce-analytics/ecommerce-conversion-rates/) provides some intriguing information on eCommerce conversion rates. ## To Wrap Up! Just because you have a lot of website traffic doesn’t imply that you’re going to make a lot of purchases. The process of turning your visitors into paying clients is a whole other task in and of itself and one you’ll likely need to subcontract to a conversion rate optimization firm. It’s also worth noting that this isn’t a quick fix, so don’t expect to see immediate results. Rather focus on the long-term revenue growth.  With such a crucial process, it’s only right that you work with reputable CRO firms with proven conversion rates, and I hope my top ten firms help you find the agency that can help you fulfill your needs. If you enjoyed this read, then make sure to check out some of the other articles I’ve written on conversion rate optimization. Share in the comments section what other business building tools and strategies you want me to talk about: - [Effective User Optimization Principles To Increase Your SEO Ranking](https://alejandrorioja.com/user-optimization-principles/) - [Enterprise SEO Guide: Strategies, Tools, & More](https://alejandrorioja.com/enterprise-seo-guide-strategies-tools-more/) - [Top 4 Effective Ways To Improve Your Ecommerce Conversion Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Download Twitter Videos In 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-twitter-videos/ Published: 2022-03-30 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Twitter Videos may last up to 140 seconds (or 2 minutes and 20 seconds), during which time people can educate, interact, and influence others virtually. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Twitter Videos may last up to 140 seconds (or 2 minutes and 20 seconds), during which time people can educate, interact, and influence others virtually. Offline, though, it’s a whole other issue since you don’t have access to such content. So understanding how to download videos from Twitter is critical if you want to store that amazing piece of material you just saw. If you’ve been using the internet for a while, you’ll know that Twitter is [an online community](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) and social media channel where users communicate by exchanging messages called tweets. Accordingly, in this platform, Video replies outperform word and picture postings.  Due to this, Twitter has become a place where videos are constantly used and watched online. But despite its functionality, there is no way to download videos from Twitter even if you want to.  Now the question is, How do you download Twitter videos? If you’re uncertain, I will walk you through everything you need to know when downloading a Twitter video. So keep on reading!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TABQayFstjY ## Twitter Twitter is a popular social media and networking website where users communicate through short messages known as tweets. But apart from that, It is also a microblogging service that allows users to express themselves in instantaneous spurts for the benefit of others. As a result, most companies utilize Twitter to boost brand recognition. It has also developed into the [perfect venue for influencers](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-social-media-can-help-your-business-grow/) with highly sought-after thoughts and posts. ### Twitter Features This [social media](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/03/15/social-media-and-the-evolving-threat-landscape/) feature offers a lot of interactive features. Hence, the following are the most commonly used: #### Moments Twitter Moments is an RSS feed that updates you on anything major occurring on Twitter in real-time. It’s a terrific time saver since it keeps you informed about everything without requiring further work. Additionally, you can use Moments to construct a narrative for your business and effortlessly publish it as a customized post. #### Image Including pictures in your posts may [increase engagement](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) by more than 300 percent, so it’s vital to include images related to your content. Fortunately, you can post up to four photos in a tweet!  You may also tag up to ten individuals in each picture, quadrupling your exposure without exceeding your 140-character limit. #### Videos Attract attention and convey a compelling tale with a visually appealing video. With this feature, you can bring your brand, product, or service to life.  They’re simple to develop and may be used to direct visitors to a website or mobile application or connect with your brand’s message.  ## How to Download Twitter Videos Yes, it is possible to save videos from Twitter; However, it requires a few more steps. On top of that, you can download the video for recording, regardless of whether you’re using a desktop, netbook, tablet, or smartphone.  ### Download From Desktop Browser Using your browsers of choice, such as Firefox or Edge, or Safari, go to Twitter and search for a video you want to download.  #### By Click Downloader A third-party site to consider is “[By Click Downloader](https://www.byclickdownloader.com/?source=alejandrorioja&innerpage=how-to-download-twitter-videos)”.” This site allows you to download videos from your chosen social media platform including Twitter. On top of that, it offers multiple downloads using a simple and easy-to-navigate interface.  All you have to do is visit their website, click download and install the software on your computer.  Once downloaded, you can simply open the application and paste the URL of your wanted Twitter video.  After so, You’ll be choosing the video quality, format, and location of where the video will be saved. Once done, all you have to do is sit back and wait for the video to download so you can enjoy it later. #### Twitter Video Downloader After doing so, you can use third-party applications like Twitter Video Downloader, TWDOWN, or savetweetvid.com.  Hence, we’ll use twittervideodownloader.com in this scenario. Just copy the URL of the Twitter video you have chosen and paste it into the link field of the third-party application.  After doing so, you can select the video quality you like. A right-click on the video and selecting “Save As” will save it to your computer. Just wait for the download to complete, and you’re done! #### TWDOWN  For a more seamless and uninterruptible experience, try TWDown, another free Twitter video downloader. You don’t have to worry about installing a separate downloader if you use this online system.  All you have to do is log into your Twitter account and choose the video you want to save, then copy the URL bar link from the video window. Once you go to TWDOWN’s website, you’ll notice a box labelled “Enter Video Link.” So to download the video, paste the video URL into the search box and click the “Download” option next to it.  Selecting a video quality is also a choice you will have to make. Select the one that best fits your needs, and that’s it! ### Download From iPhone/Ipad In order to download Twitter videos on iOS devices, there are three options. Among them are: #### Using Readdle’s Docs application For starters, you need to install a Readdle App. When done, select “Share tweet via” and then “Copy URL to tweet,” You may get a direct link to your YouTube video on Twitter. Hence, to get a download link for the video, paste the URL into the link box and choose “Download. But remember that the video should include a name and a location. To begin the video’s download on your mobile device, just tap “Done.” #### Video Downloader+ Software When utilizing the Downloader+ Software, just follow the first to the fourth step in the Readdle app. Wait patiently for the download to complete, and you now have a video to share on Twitter.  Bear in mind that downloaded videos may be found in the download folder on your mobile device. #### Transferring the file from your computer to your iPhone or iPad It’s possible to airdrop videos from your PC to your iOS portable device for Mac users. You may also transfer files with an iOS USB cord. ### Download From Android A third-party software purchased from the Google Play store is a necessary first step. Repeat the same procedure from the other steps above.  Depending on your third-party app, you may have the option of directing the video to a specific location, or it may go straight to your downloads folder by default.  What you use to download movies on Android is entirely up to you.  ## How do you download videos from Twitter DMs? Twitter’s way of communicating is via direct messages or DMs. Like other texting services, it allows you to transmit videos as well.  Thanks to TWSaveDm, it’s now possible to download Twitter videos directly from a DM. To download videos from Twitter Direct Messages, this app’s simple appearance and functionalities are a tremendous assistance. Every video clip you receive in your DMs now has a download option in the upper left corner. You may download the video by pressing the download symbol in the top left corner of the video. After that, you’ll need to decide on a resolution and sit tight as the file downloads, and you’re done!  ## Issue When Downloading Videos Only public videos may be accessed by third-party applications and apps. A private Twitter account will not allow you to download videos from it. A solution is only possible if the video source’s account settings are public. ## Other Things You Need To Know 1. These third-party tools don’t all follow the same process. The steps outlined here are common. However, they may differ depending on the third-party application used. 2. Downloading videos using any of the third-party apps on this list is unrestricted. Your downloads will go through without issue. Hence, a Twitter video may be downloaded if you have a steady internet connection. 3. Third-party applications on desktop and laptop are all free. In certain app shops, third-party applications include advertisements. So if you want an ad-free downloading experience, you must pay. 4. Only Twitter may be used with the third-party applications mentioned above. It is not supported to use other social networking sites such as Facebook or Instagram. 5. You can’t download videos from DMs on Twitter. Saved is only compatible with iOS 9-11 devices that have been jailbroken. ## Download Videos from Twitter Today!  It’s true that whenever you’re going through your social media accounts, you can’t help but watch any videos that pop up. The more you watch, the more likely you are to want to watch it again offline.  So, if you want to download [Twitter](https://www.forbes.com/sites/goldiechan/2021/12/06/5-ways-that-twitter-can-help-elevate-your-brand/) videos, you no longer have to sneak a peek every now and again. Downloading videos from this platform is now very simple.  Hence, there are several ways to do so, but the procedures outlined in this article are basic enough that even a novice can do the process.  So If you’d like some more guides on how to use other social media applications, you can check these articles below:  - [How to Get More Subscribers On Youtube? A 2022 Guide.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-more-subscribers-on-youtube/) - [Instagram Marketing: Essentials and Content Creation](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-marketing-instagram-essentials-and-content-creation/) - [What is Facebook Creative Hub and How To Navigate it?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-facebook-creative-hub/) Drop a comment to tell me what guide or tips do you want me to cover next! --- _— [Alejandro](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems](/services/#agent) for founders. [See the stack →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Advertise On Spotify In 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-advertise-on-spotify/ Published: 2022-03-22 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Advertising (SEM) TL;DR: Spotify was launched in 2006 and since then it has become the premier music streaming service in the United States (and abroad), with over 70 million songs and 365 monthly users. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Spotify was launched in 2006 and since then it has become the premier music streaming service in the United States (and abroad), with over 70 million songs and 365 monthly users. It has been renowned for leading user experience and accessibility, and it has been a hit with both consumers and producers. Clearly, Spotify’s ad platform is a fantastic method to reach your target demographic, and they are the true winners of streaming radio advertising. Pandora was all the rage once upon a time. Everyone was streaming music, listening to it, and sharing it with their friends worldwide. Then, Spotify entered the picture, and the platform quickly rose in popularity. Compared to iTunes, Amazon Music, and others, Spotify currently has a 34 percent market share. So what does this all imply for you? It suggests that advertisements are popular and that promoting your company on this platform might help grow your business. In this article, I’ll go over all you need to know about Spotify advertisements and how to put them up. ## Spotify uses which social media platforms? Spotify, dubbed “the future social network” by analysts, has a strong presence on: - Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - YouTube  - LinkedIn ## What You Should Know About Spotify Ads There are a few important aspects to consider if you’re thinking about placing Spotify advertisements. What does it cost, what sorts of advertising are available, and how do the ads play on the platform? Before I go into setting up and starting your advertisements, I’ll go over some more specifics, so you’ll understand everything. ### The Price of Spotify Ads There was a time when Spotify primarily worked with huge corporations with deep pockets. Previously, a campaign cost $25,000 to run. However, this is no longer the case. Spotify has expanded its doors to smaller businesses and brands by launching a self-service Spotify Ads Studio, in which you can set your spending plan at $250 and let the system take care of the rest. Bidding on viewers works similarly on other [social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) platforms, and the price of your advertising will vary depending on the reliability and target demographic. The exact cost varies based on the competition, but most advertisers pay around $.015 and $.025 each time their ad is seen. Somebody will click or tap depending on the device they’re using to transfer, and you may then direct them to your conversion page. Because of its relevance, the landing page will also play a part in the performance of your Spotify ad. ### Types of Ads Once you’ve concluded that advertising on Spotify is within your budget, you’ll want to think about the sort of ad structure that will be most effective for your company. However, marketing on a music and [podcast](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johanmoreno/2022/02/18/spotify-acquired-two-major-podcast-technology-companies-youtube-should-be-concerned/?sh=14e07b37ddd5) broadcasting platform may not suit everyone. The following are the many sorts of ad setups you may use: #### All Available Platforms The first option is to run your ad across all platforms. This means that your target audience will see your ad regardless of whatever device they’re using, and the platform will play advertising in between songs when people are on the platform. You’ll also get an interactive display unit, which users may use to get to your target URL by clicking or tapping on it. #### Session Sponsorships Only mobile and tablet users will see these adverts. In return for seeing a full-length advertisement, sponsored sessions provide 30 minutes of continuous music or podcast. They may either take the offer or click away, which will take them to ordinary platform adverts for the rest of their session. #### Overtake Video This great ad approach only appears on mobile phones and tablets. Instead of only audio, you now receive a full video, which gives the customer more premium experiences and makes your ad look more interesting. It includes a clickable associate unit that directs people to your destination URL. #### Overlay The overlay ad appears as fixed advertising whenever anyone returns to the app. There’s no music or video, and it looks like a banner ad on a mobile app or website. #### Homepage Overhaul  This is a normal display advertisement that only works on the desktop. With a clickable ad that enables rich media, you’ll get a position on Spotify’s homepage for 24 hours. To make the ad more interesting, integrate interactive features. #### Leaderboard This ad style can be displayed on the Spotify leaderboard for 30 seconds on a desktop’s online player. #### Sponsored Playlists  The sponsored playlist is available for streaming and allows you to reach the highest number of listeners by becoming a Spotify sponsor. When you pick this ad placement type, your ad appears on Spotify’s sponsored playlists. Only your adverts will appear when someone is listening to the playlist. ## What Are the Benefits of Running a Spotify Ad Campaign? Spotify has surpassed Pandora in terms of monthly viewers and ad-supported users, rising to over 345 million monthly users and 199 million ad-supported users. That’s a lot of people you can try to reach with your ads. They’ve made it easy for companies and enterprises of all sectors to promote on the platform, thanks to the creation and popularity of the Ad Studio. Let’s look at these reasons you would want to advertise on Spotify. ### Spotify Ads Can Help Your Business Make Money Increased [brand recognition](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/08/20/building-brand-recognition-through-your-content-and-bi-tools/?sh=1604a7263894) is one of the most important reasons for anyone to market anything. We’re not always searching for a conversion or a unique activity; sometimes, all we want to do is spread the word and let folks know we’re here. Spotify is a wonderful place to do this because most ads play in between songs when people are already hooked in and used to listening, even if they don’t realize it’s an ad. You might be able to gain the attention you seek on this platform if you produce a compelling ad with fascinating audio or video. ### Spotify Can Assist you in Creating Excellent Advertisements Spotify provides a wealth of materials to assist advertisers in creating the best ad possible. They’re on your side, and they want their sponsors to succeed because advertisements pay the bills. Additionally, they provide a range of ad experiences and complimentary services like voice-over performers, scripts, theme music, and various audio effects. ### Spotify Ads Allow You to Reach Out to Engaged Listeners One difference between [marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/visual-content-for-your-marketing-campaigns/) on a streaming site like Spotify and [Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-marketing-instagram-essentials-and-content-creation/) or Facebook advertisements, in my opinion, is that users are already listening. They’re tuned in, they would like to listen, and even if users don’t like the advertisement, they’re still listening. People are interested in whatever they hear, and they are likely to stay for a while. They’re listening whether they’re wearing headphones, at the gym, cleaning their house, or doing something else. ## ​​How to Create a Spotify Advertising Campaign With several Spotify ad examples, I’d want to walk down the procedures you’ll need to follow to build your first ad. ### 1\. Make an Account ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/JCFZwE66x8z7MQzuWLVMPOT4uhVEj7L1DUEEY4GaPKJ39Oru9sj3baoSHWtcPcIVvgZSRMYJv9KmK8b9x-yCJHy9kN8Kcxd4OpY76ni-aiSB8SS9Yb8Ao_emqw9z7pkXfE_CzaQg) [Image Source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/spotify-ads-5-1.png) If you don’t already have an account, the first step is creating one. You’ll submit basic details about yourself and your company. After you’ve made your account, you’ll be sent to a dashboard similar to the one seen below. From here, we can begin creating our first Spotify ad. ### 2\. Set your budget, goals, and timetable. You will now name your action and select an aim. In this case, I’m providing 50% off my agency services for the month, and the purpose of this advertisement is to raise brand awareness. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/aEez3LCVeZX8p8TJOF2T8nKkmsT4SW21ZA41m-fk_JwcKGp3xzkgm0rm-IRUAH1SeHqpGTFvMe6UNZ2AbBdFYPzWl3SabmL1LNDTZYJSqzayeUIUVh-gSRjFugsYGi19UQzjTlfn) [Image source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/spotify-ads-1.png) On the following page, you’ll select the sort of advertisement format and platform you want. You may choose between audio and video ads, as well as the platform on which you want the ad to appear. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BtxzPrhN-pDxcaBgpnceI2n0AO0Xw7L_SOUyfgCNmyQ-8A-nTV6LkrZfsxilkonZ6D4_67gsqa3VYmyIB-hteJ10L7G9EeBVuAawEjGCkpd5KPGWXm1ODTj-OzEg0AbiBfvL22SM) [Image source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/spotify-ads-2.png) After that, you’ll select the ad calendar for whenever you want the ad to start, stop, and what time of day you want it to appear. You may also establish a budget limit so that once you hit it, the ad will stop appearing so you don’t go over. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0YD4qW_VHMtY3f7wSaAVfgj2fTnoEBLooC8y9RzC8p357IlcI3EsDzaLZQvig6j0fa_MqyvgCNd0xbK1sfazfzGrdwjRn-v7ffS1EAfFyV596xjU7UKSxtDGG1TmlPMInwUsdT_d) [Image source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/spotify-ads-3.png) ### 3\. Know Your Target Audience ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pTi396AA6ATuHgwoV4qTCWtwx0P7WHMz532McSIXySe1yrwmkGB1JWI4vviq-rlgCkYCAoEAx2aT0Reuj6HzAtub5y-e9v4tw_l2mCxI9gcV3QsKFhyYisVDwc19-dMAbhx9O5F1) [Image source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/spotify-ads-6.png) Next, you’ll select your target audience based on their nation, geography, postal codes, age, gender identity, hobbies, context, music genre, and other factors. Most of you won’t narrow down that much until you gather data, but this means Spotify does have a lot of information on its customers, which is helpful from an advertising standpoint. ### 4\. Create Your Advertisement ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/b-1ErUYN2uIyJ1b3XgkEtJvQN2afSQxFe4hchB0uff_9XCLxrhK9RVyQyKuihvozB-U20-dM2C09rINXJkNCryaKQ5idCLLp7FWeLrrI1dIO-YSWW3Z6RCzBeQitO5AZL28eXiVc) [Image source](https://neilpatel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021) Your ad will be created on the next page. You may include a video or a picture and choose the sort of call-to-action you want. Spotify will tell you how your ad will appear on mobile and desktop. ### 5\. Track the Success of Your Ad Once you’ve developed your ad, the only thing left to do is to track its success. They provide a lot of statistics on the back end to help you keep track of all the data and figure out how you want to filter down your audience over time. Starting broad will allow you to collect as much data as possible straight immediately, allowing you to observe who is getting your ad, who is engaging, and who is not. ## To Wrap it Up You’ve already seen the tail wheel of Spotify’s robust advertisements manager, as well as how to build up an ad from start to finish. The only thing left to do is give it a try and see whether it works for your company and brand. When creating your ad, keep a consumer avatar in mind, and don’t be hesitant to publish less-than-perfect material. The essential thing is that you’re putting your business out there to raise awareness, and it doesn’t have to be flawless all of the time. Did you find this article informative? Let me know in the comments below. Also, check out my other articles, you might find them helpful. - [Top Ways To Rank Your YouTube Videos in 2022](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-rank-your-youtube-videos/) - [Viral Content Creation Tips To Generate 2,500 Visitors Per Day](https://alejandrorioja.com/viral-content-creation-tips-to-generate-2500-visitors-per-day/) - [Effective User Optimization Principles To Increase Your SEO Ranking](https://alejandrorioja.com/user-optimization-principles/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 7 Ways To Get Featured on Forbes, Mashable, Inc, Techcrunch, Entrepreneur and others for FREE Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/ Published: 2022-03-22 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: (As a thank you for reading this article, use the code “PR10” to get 10% off on any bundle!) - Sale Product on sale ~$2,000~ Original price was: $2,000.$975Current price is: $975. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Getting people to know about your projects and your story through press is essential for your success. Over the last 12-16 months I’ve appeared on [Inc](https://www.inc.com/rahul-varshneya/the-shortest-path-to-1-million-in-ecommerce-busin.html), [Linkedin Pulse](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-ucla-grad-plans-disrupt-silicon-valley-become-john-white-mba-), various podcasts, TV interviews and printed media such as [Forbes Magazine](https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx0RV4ylC6Z/). I’ve also gotten my Flux Ventures companies featured on [Mashable](http://mashable.com/2016/11/28/tech-gifts-for-grandma/), [Business Insider](http://www.businessinsider.com/best-battery-packs), and 60+ other places. These opportunities have led me to more connections, more fans and more importantly, more revenue for my business. Nowadays, I can launch an app like Poos Caboose and get it featured in 154 countries on the App Store the same day, all because I’ve built [a strong network that supports my current and future projects](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/). Throughout my experience launching Flux brands, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to do PR and **how to pitch your company or product** to get it featured. I would like to share those tips with you in today’s post. Before we start, understand that press should be approached in incremental steps. [Unless you go viral](http://futuresharks.com/go-viral-facebook-goubtube/), it’s almost impossible to go from no press to getting featured on Forbes the next day. You need to start with smaller (but mightier) publications like [Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com) and [SoInfluential](http://soinfluential.com), and use those as a stepping stone for your next publication. I understand that most of you might not be thrilled to devote the time that it takes to build rapport with the writers, pitch your story and follow up to get your story heard. If that’s the case for you, take advantage of getting [featured on 7 sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/7-site-package/)! Need other press packages? Find them [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/product-category/press/). (As a thank you for reading this article, use the code “PR10” to get 10% off on any bundle!) - [ Sale Product on sale ![7 Site Press Package](/images/posts/inline/4543cae5-pr-bundles-300x150.png) 7 Site Press Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/7-site-package/) ~$2,000~ Original price was: $2,000.$975Current price is: $975. Rated **5.00** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=3&lang=en&add-to-cart=25584) - [ Sale Product on sale ![4 Site Package](/images/posts/inline/e652d2ff-2.png) 4 Site Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/4-site-package/) ~$1,000~ Original price was: $1,000.$725Current price is: $725. Rated **4.86** out of 5 based on 7 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=3&lang=en&add-to-cart=22203) - [ Sale Product on sale ![3 Site Package](/images/posts/inline/be678ed9-1.png) 3 Site Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/3-site-package/) ~$875~ Original price was: $875.$625Current price is: $625. Rated **4.83** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=3&lang=en&add-to-cart=22195) Are you a PR Agency and want to work out a partnership with me to get contributor access to my publications? [DM me](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) or check this [bundle](https://futuresharks.com/bundle). If you would like to do PR yourself, here are the **steps to get featured**. ## 1\. Make sure you’re ready for the press When you pitch people your story, **make sure that it is something worthwhile to cover**. “Why is this story relevant or exciting?” –  “Why would the readers care?” If you can’t answer that in a very straightforward way you will need to refine your pitch. Another important aspect is to have a press release (or blurb) ready that you can send out to people so that they can learn about you in one or two paragraphs. I also suggest having a [“Press” tab](https://alejandrorioja.com/press) on your site so that in the case a writer is checking out your site, they can very easily find logos, graphics and other articles about you. This tab also helps you establish your credibility when your readers and clients check it out. If you’re still crafting the perfect story, keep the following in mind - What makes you or your company unique? (read [how to sell anything](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/))  - Are you taking advantage of any trends going on in the industry? (i.e. [cryptocurrencies](http://cryptotim.es)) - What insight do you have that other people don’t? Once you have a solid pitch you should move on to the next step. ## **2\. DM the contributors directly** You will be surprised but for many of the features that I got, I simply DM’ed the writers on Facebook or Twitter. Here is a more detailed description on how to [effectively message contributors](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/). ### Extra hacks Here is the secret tip to find writers. - Go on Facebook and do a graph search for keywords like “Techcrunch contributor” or “contributor at Huffington Post”. Sometimes you will stumble upon a Facebook group comprised of multiple contributors for a large publication. Pro tip: Don’t just shoot for Techcrunch or Forbes, if your niche is ecommerce you can also look into being featured on the [Shopify Blog](https://www.shopify.com/blog) for example. - Read the articles of the contributors to establish if your story is a fit (very important step to not come off as spammy). - If your story is a fit, then use a condensed version of your pitch of 2-3 sentences with your ask. (Remember that they are busy and that the message will go to their Message Request inbox). ~Sometimes~ Most of the time a writer might be too busy to reply to your message. Don’t be rude and follow up with just a “?” if they don’t reply to you within 10 min. I’d suggest to give them at least 24 hours if not a week until you follow up again. ![](/images/posts/inline/b0615b8e-haro.png) ## 3\. Use HARO to get some easy PR [HARO](http://helpareporter.com) (short for Help A Reporter Out) is a tool used by many writers when they are looking for quotes from industry experts and thought leaders. Once you sign up for HARO you will receive up to 3 emails aday asking for your insight on the topics of Biotech, Healthcare, Business, Education, High Tech, Fitness, Travel and more. These writers will belong to sites like Bustle, Askmen, New York Times, NBC and Forbes. If you can wow them with your answer, you’ve won yourself a solid feature on these reputable sites, not to mention also [a backlink to your site which will help with SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). The secret to getting featured on a HARO query is to 1. Be concise, add value and answer just what the query is asking you. (Do not send a generic or un-insightful answer) 2. Be quick (If you wait too long someone else will beat you to it or the deadline might pass) Replying to a HARO query should not take you more than 15 min. If you’re taking too long to reply to one, then you should move on. I also suggest to save all your answers in a Google Doc because similar queries pop up all the time and you can have your answer ready to send. You can also hire a VA to answer queries for you on a daily basis. Make sure that the VA you hire has perfect english grammar and also understands your voice and thoughts. The last thing you want is to have your name tied to a belief you don’t hold. HARO is a very powerful tool that you should definitely make use of! ## 4\. Hire a Professional PR agency This one is not free, but it can be worthwhile if you’re an executive and your time is valuable. A PR agency will save you all the hassle and frustration of this process. If you don’t have the budget for it, you can always get on my publications [Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com), [So Influential](https://soinfluential.com/), [Remarkable](https://remarkablemag.com/) or [Authority Daily](http://authoritydaily.com/) with a discount bundle. ?Find the details about the PR bundle [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/product-category/press/). Then, you can use those publications for leverage for larger ones 😉 ## 5\. Be patient and reach to a lot of reporters Like I mentioned before, unless you partner up with a [PR specialist](http://flux.la), you will need to wait a few days or weeks until you hear back from a writer. What I did to speed up this process was to collect emails of 12,000 reporters. I use this list every time I want to blow up a project. By the virtue of being a large list there’s bound to be someone that wants to cover my story. Some ideas to keep in mind - [A/B test your message and subject lines](https://flux.la/how-to-ab-test) - Use [Streak](https://www.streak.com/) to track open rates - Persist until you get that “yes”. To get a high open and conversion rate do the following step. ## 6\. Submit anonymous tips from a female email I tested multiple emails from both male and female employees at Flux and my personal tests showed that a female email does best in terms of open rates and replies. Try it out and let me know if you find this to be the case as well. What you can do on those emails is something like: > *“Hi Name,* > *I recently found saw XYZ being covered on* [*The Crypto Times*](http://cryptotim.es/)*, where they revealed a novel approach to ABC. Thought you would be interested in checking it out since your background is in ABC. Hope this is helpful to you. ”* > > [Tweet](/) ## 7\. Be so good that the reporters will reach out to you! There’s nothing better than having the reporters reach out to you! To do this, just grind hard and continue getting better at your craft. - if you are a social media influencer, post amazing content, get tons of followers ([Snapchat guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/)) - if you are a speaker, do webinars, talks for free. - if you are in ecommerce, [grow your business to the point they will listen](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/). - if you are a startup founder, launch your product and wow your customers; or do a PR stunt (like [Fortnite and their blackhole](https://www.theverge.com/2019/10/15/20905428/fortnite-chapter-2-season-1-release-date-battle-pass-black-hole)) ## The most reputable press sites to be featured in 2026 - Business: Forbes, Huffington Post, Inc, VentureBeat, Business Insider, Entrepreneur, Future Sharks - Tech: Techcrunch, Mashable, The Verge, The Next Web - News: ABC, CNBC, CNN, Fox, NYTimes, Reuters, BBC - Social Media: DigiDay, Buzzfeed, So Influential, Authority Daily - Finance: FinancialTimes, CryptoTimes, The Economist, MarketWatch, The Wall Street Journal, The Motley Fool, Seeking Alpha, Bloomberg - SEO: SearchEngineJournal, SEORoundTable, my blog 😉 - Other: Sometimes, a small really engaged blog can also be great! ## Closing thoughts on PR “Build and they will come” doesn’t apply in today’s world because there a multitude of competing apps, products, and services that do almost the exact same as you. I consider PR Marketing one of the best guerilla marketing strategies that one can use to catapult a business. A solid press strategy should be built out incrementally and should always be focused on keeping the voice and vision of your company consistent. The benefits of PR can be amazing and in some cases, the press can transform your business. For us a simple feature on Yahoo Tech gave us over $30k in recurring revenue for [Flux Charger](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers) sales per month. Let me know in the comments which publication you are looking to get yourself featured on. **I’ll pick someone at random every 6 months and get that person featured for free (as long as the story is good)**. Also if you found this post to be helpful, share it with a friend that might also find value in it. Now read: - [How to make more sales and why your sales funnel sucks](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) - [How to CRAZY viral](https://futuresharks.com/go-viral-facebook-goubtube/) by an actual mega famous influencer - use [SEO for brand exposure](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) in addition to PR --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Use Screaming Frog: A Complete Guide For 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-screaming-frog/ Published: 2022-03-13 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Now, realize that there are millions of websites, and Google cannot put all of them on the SERPs. Most are wondering why their sites and articles are not added to Google’s web search. ## Table of contents As I was starting my [SEO and digital marketing journey](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/), I often found myself having trouble setting up and using the many available tools. I remember being up in all arms about it, confused by all the different terms, sophisticated charts, and dizzying statistics.  Trying to strike a balance between learning the software in tandem with SEO concepts is hard, and you will often find yourself spread too thin, not only in saving time but also processing power.   That is why as a now more experienced professional, I aim to provide some form of help to the beginners who would want to spend more time learning the more important concepts of SEO.  > To utilize that newfound SEO knowledge, you need to have a firm grasp on the software you are using. That is where I would like to guide you about one such tool called ‘[Screaming Frog](https://www.screamingfrog.co.uk/seo-spider/).’  In this post, I will be tackling what Screaming Frog is, how to set it up, and how to run a crawl, to ensure you get the [data you need](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2020/03/02/the-seo-metrics-you-need-for-a-proper-top-level-seo-audit/#23c2ed936ec9) for your technical SEO audit.   ## What is Screaming Frog?  Google evaluates your site through a process commonly known in the digital niche as “crawling.” It may sound weird, though, but it fits once you think about it.  Google assigns a bot on your site to ‘crawl’ your content. What that means is that a bot will examine your page by going around it, finding [linked pages on your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/), and then following them. Now I guess “follow” would be a more fitting term, but “crawling” has stuck. And admittedly, it sounds way cooler.   Now anyway, back to the topic.  Now, realize that there are millions of websites, and Google cannot put all of them on the SERPs. Most are wondering why their sites and articles are not added to Google’s web search.  Well, some factors play essential roles in whether your site and content get indexed or not. Examining all is laborious, and webmasters have little insight on how Google goes about crawling around your site.  Now, here is where Screaming Frog comes in. The Screaming Frog SEO spider tool is a website crawler that allows you to crawl websites just as a Google bot would.  The tool will retrieve critical on-site data and organize it into understandable stats and reports. This allows the easy identification and evaluation of changes to the site for use in a technical SEO and website audit.  Screaming Frog allows you to:  1. Find broken links for you to fix 2. Find temporary and permanent redirects 3. Analyze metadata  4. Find duplicate content 5. Review robots.txt and other directives 6. Create XML sitemaps 7. Evaluate site architecture, among others.  ## Factors that affect website crawling As I said earlier, crawling a website is affected by many different factors. Here are the most prominent of them. ### Domain name  ![Description: https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/GUpTT2IdXhg4PgPP-6Ohu8JWCV81aB\_801vH75hhN7FbKI5dc5K7lvGpSfzwJ\_UjHFZJOFKDRgZaOfg06LPb0ts2c1YIo3NXcnNOuclZMtumWJNeJplZhNFGk7fBfzweQC2-47Bb](/images/posts/inline/99d97300-domain-name-structure-diagram-1956x936-1.png) The crawling rate is higher for the domains that have [good traffic and authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/). The Google Panda update has given significant importance to domain names.  Domain names that have the main keyword in them are given priority over those that do not have the main keywords.  Relevant: Also read the review of GoDaddy [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/). ### Backlinks ![Description: https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gFoqen0AvQyTf6ASInM301qAwvHAjlOHiD461qqVaJgSKi3uwnqUQnLtsQAuTDriwGaaHSlvRku3ygURSlcorziR1iTqP0BFAjX23iReVoYmWt2gXa8XBTmjZjoODc76FfWlXucO](/images/posts/inline/705ccfe0-what-are-backlinks.png) If you have decent rankings but little to no backlinks to your site, then crawlers would assume that your content is of low quality and value.  An underlying assumption of search engines is that the more backlinks your site have, the more reputable your website is.  ### Internal linking ![](/images/posts/inline/89592f2d-screenshot-alejandrorioja.com-2020.06.03-16_04_20.png) Internal linking is the practice of linking one page on a site to another page within the same site. They are useful for navigation, information hierarchy, and link equity. Internal linking is a good practice not only for SEO rankings but also for maintaining active users. Who would want to stay in a hard to navigate site?  There are numerous discussions on [internal linking and anchor text usage](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/), but there is no universally correct way. What is essential is to recognize that internal linking is a good practice to adopt into your site.  ### XML sitemap ![](/images/posts/inline/98e77a6d-xml_sitemap_yoast.com2_.png) A [well-built XML sitemap](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/) is a sort of roadmap that leads Google to all of your relevant pages. Sometimes, some pages will end up with no internal links going to them, making them quite challenging to locate.  An XML sitemap lists all of the pages of a website and informs Google that the site has been updated and will make the bot want to crawl the site.  ### URL Canonicalization ![Description: https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/LUiJ4KcvFvpJPZmT-yA\_hEI8FoGBW2DSzKRQIEEOlnENPGxdZwXVa54aYL\_lJzR\_UfHm2Pf4p9K\_0ZYMNSMyvYi1grb8sh4YRHTX2CdWXALWkjToIcY1-woWxgp70H\_6OmBCvo-e](/images/posts/inline/ca6d0c19-mozbar-canonical-tag.png) If you have one page accessible by multiple URLs or different pages with more or less the same content, then Google may interpret these as duplicate pages. The bot will choose one site to declare as the original (canon) version and crawl that, while the other pages are reported as duplicates and are crawled less often.   Choosing a canonical URL will specify the page that will be shown on search engine results, and will consolidate it with duplicate pages. This is essential for proper SEO.  ### Meta Tags ![](/images/posts/inline/492ed037-screenshot-www.google.com-2020.06.03-16_11_04.png) Meta tags are the snippets of text that outline and describe the content of a page. The photo above is a [meta description tag](https://flux.la/seo/); there are other meta tags not visible on a search engine and only through a site’s source code.  To rank in search engines, ensure that you have non-competitive but unique tags.  With Screaming Frog, you can swiftly crawl, analyze, and do on-site audits for websites of all sizes. Key on-site SEO elements can be exported through CSV files and opened on separate spreadsheet software.  ## Where to begin? ### Installation ![](/images/posts/inline/2880eb92-screenshot-www.screamingfrog.co_.uk-2020.06.03-16_15_06.png) To start, you will need to, of course, install the tool on your computer. It is available on Microsoft, Mac, and Linux, and is free for crawling up to 500 URLs at a time.  If you want to remove the URL limit and get access to more premium features, then you can purchase a license.  ### License activation  If you wish to use the fully unlocked version, then you will have to buy a license. When you buy one, you will be provided with a license key which should be entered under “License > Enter License.”   When entered correctly, a dialog box will say that the license key is valid, and will show an expiry date. ### Familiarize the user interface Before touching anything, I suggest familiarizing yourself with the tabs, settings, and menus.  1. **File.** Under the ‘File’ menu, you can save your crawls as files on the event that it did not finish. If you forget to save one, then you can access the last six crawls you performed under this tab.  2. **Configuration.** This can be considered the most important menu to familiarize yourself with. Click on ‘Spider’ to change the customizations based on the parts you want crawled and the data you want to see.  3. **Bulk Export.** This menu allows you to export addresses with particular response codes, inlinks, directives, images, and more.  4. **Reports.** The reports menu lets you download an overview of your crawling session as well as reports on a specific set of data such as canonical errors and redirect links.  5. **Sitemaps.** The sitemaps menu lets you construct a sitemap for your site. ## Setting up your device ### Setting up memory and storage As you start crawling sites, you will notice that some websites are larger than others, and as such, require more memory and processing power. If you want to go straight to site crawling, or are using the limited free version, then feel free to ignore this step.  But if you want to crawl lots and lots of sites, then it would be wise to allocate more of your RAM and processing power to Screaming Frog.  If you have an SSD, then it is suggested to switch to database storage mode through ‘Configuration > System > Storage’ and choose the Database Storage Mode option.  If not, then you can stick with the RAM storage mode, with default settings of 1 GB RAM for 32-bit machines and 2GB RAM for 64-bit variants. Screaming Frog dedicates a total GB number that is 2 GB lower than your full capacity to prevent freezing and crashes.  When you are done allocating more RAM, restart the software for the changes to apply.  ### Adjusting configurations You do not need to make hefty changes to Screaming Frog as the SEO spider is already set up to crawl sites like how Google does it. There are, however, a wealth of ways to configure your crawl and get only the data that you need, not only saving time but also processing power.   If you are crawling a site utilizing JavaScript, then you can use the JavaScript rendering mode by going to ‘Configuration > Spider > Rendering.’ JavaScript will then be executed so that the spider tool can then crawl the HTML.  The different configuration options will need a separate detailed technical post. For now, though, know that the basic built-in SEO spider configuration is enough for many of your needs.  ## Using Screaming Frog So now that you know how to set up the memory, storage, and configurations, as well as are familiarized with the interface, then it is time to use the tool to crawl a site.  ### Start a crawl  There are two modes for crawling a site: the default ‘Spider’ mode which crawls a single website, and the ‘List’ mode which will crawl a list of URLs you can enter through copy and paste.  Start a regular spider crawl by entering the homepage URL into the field and click start.  ![](/images/posts/inline/28d9a2fa-start-a-crawl-spider-mode.jpg) The crawl updates in real-time and metrics such as speed and number of URLs are shown through the status bar at the bottom. If you want to crawl a list of URLs rather than the whole site, then click on ‘Mode > List’ to either upload or copy and paste a list of URLs.  When crawling, take note that:  1. You can save in a moment (only with a license).  2. You can stop and resume the crawl when you want later, 3. Exiting Screaming Frog or turning off your device would lead to a loss of unsaved data, 4. You can save the crawl, exit the program, and resume from the saved spot later (only with a license).  ### Viewing crawl data There will be tabs that focus on different elements. Each tab has filters that divide data by types, and there are tabs for potential errors discovered.  You can click on the URLs at the top, which will show tabs at the bottom half of the screen. Click on these bottom tabs to populate the lower panel.  ### Viewing potential issues On the right-hand window of the screen, there is an ‘Overview’ tab, which is a summary of crawl data within each of the other tabs. You can use this to view errors and issues without the need of clicking into each tab.  You can click on the entries on the tab to be taken to the relevant tab and filter directly.  ### Exporting the data From the crawl, you can export the data into spreadsheet software. Simply click the ‘Export’ button to export the data from the upper tabs and filters.  To export lower window data, right click the URLs you wish to export data from, then choose one of the four options: Inlinks, Outlinks, Image Details, and Resources. The bulk export menu mentioned earlier allows you to export the source links such as response codes, canonicals, directives, etc.  ### Saving and opening crawls As stated earlier, you can only save and resume crawls when you have a license. In the default memory mode, you can save a crawl anytime while paused or if it is finished and re-opening it.  In database storage mode (if you opted into it), crawls are saved automatically.  The resulting window will display the automatically stored crawls, which you can then organize, duplicate, export, or delete.  ## Wrapping up! And there you have it! After you have the data, it is time to give context to them through a technical SEO audit; that is not covered by this post, though.  It is important to know that Screaming Frog is NOT a technical SEO audit tool; it is merely software to use to help you gather the data and reports needed for a [technical SEO audit](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/technical-seo-audit-role/342797/).  I hope that this article will help you set up Screaming Frog for yourself and to execute your first crawl.  Want to know more SEO tools? Check out these reviews I did recently. - [Getting to know Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/) - [What is BuzzSumo and is it good for your business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzsumo-review/) - [Exploring Ahrefs as an SEO tool](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/) How was your experience using Screaming Frog? Let me know in the comments below! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## 26 Best Fiverr Gigs Of 2026 To Grow Your Business Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/best-fiverr-gigs/ Published: 2022-03-12 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Marketing, fiverr, freeeup, freelance TL;DR: Please keep in mind that all Fiverr purchases are subject to a service fee on $2 to $5 on all the purchases above $40. Relevant: Also read my review of Freeeup here! ## Table of contents #### Bottom line As a business owner, it’s essential to maximize your resources to reach business success. Fiverr is a helpful platform that you can use to grow your business.  It’s a platform that allows you to hire freelancers from all over the world at affordable rates. Not only that, but you also get high-quality services that can help your business go from zero to hero. Earlier I talked about [what Fiverr is and how it works](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/), now extending to this guide, I have put up this post to familiarize you with the options of the service available at [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=). [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) is a  gigs based marketplace that is quite popular among the businesses in hiring resources for project-based or mostly one time tasks! Its an online freelance platform that helps employers and companies find talents and services for their projects.  Curious to know about [Fiverr’s](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) popular gigs, services, and offers?  I am sure by the end of this review, you will have a fair idea in what service areas you can find a freelancer via [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=).  ## How Fiverr works? [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) is among the world’s most significant places for hiring resources for a variety of digital services. Fiverr allows you to search their selection of services offered by their freelancers, and you can place your order in a simple click. A product or service offered on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) is known as a “Gig.” Here are the steps to start browsing in Fiverr’s selection: 1. Sign up 2. Registration on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) is completely free and only registered users can buy and sell on the website. 3. Find your Service: You can now look for services that you will need by searching in Fiverr’s catalog within different categories or by merely using Fiverr’s search filters and engines to look for a specific seller. 4. Place your order 5. You have now found the gig that you require, click on it for more information, look at the description of the service, past work samples, portfolio, and pricing. Before hiring the freelancers you can connect with them in case you have particular queries. When you feel that you have found what need, you can now proceed with placing the order. Please keep in mind that all [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) purchases are subject to a service fee on $2 to $5 on all the purchases above $40. Relevant: [Also read my review of Freeeup here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/freeeup-review/) ## The Popular Fiverr Gigs The Best [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) gigs, products, and services are meant to give your project or brand the marketing advantage it needs to find your niche. With freelancers of specialized skills, here are some of the best gigs that can help your brand on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=): ### 1\. Virtual Assistance for Various platforms  You can delegate some of your operational tasks to virtual assistants through Fiverr. I think it’s a really smart way to boost your social media presence, marketing, and perhaps get a proper grasp of your audience. Procuring a Virtual assistant would involve getting someone to do tasks such as doing emails, research, and data entry or any related job. Fiverr has countless such gigs in the area of digital marketing, administrative and research work. ### 2\. Professional Business Logo and Brand Design [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) has Branding Studios featuring freelancers with five years of experience in creating minimal and modern logos for your business. Services include designing your company business card and stationery with unique designs along with a social media kit, which includes plans for Instagram, [Facebook, and Twitter cover image and profile photos.](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/) ### 3\. Jewelry Making Yes! That’s true! [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) even features services that include freelancers making your handmade jewelry from gemstone necklaces to personalized bracelets. You can also have customized designs done by people in any part of the world that uses [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=). If you ask me, this is the best it can get that not only digital media professionals, but the marketplace features professionals from such a unique skill set. ### 4\. Gifts from Recycled Materials On [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=), you can get trinkets such as magnets from guitar picks, earrings from bottle caps, ornaments from cork, or bracelets made out of paper. There is so much that people can make with their creativity. This type of service would cost around $10 to 15$ in each sale. ### 5\. WordPress Troubleshooting If you are not a [pro at WordPress](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/), you can hire a well-experienced freelancer via [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=). It is important to note that you look at the background of the prospective freelancers that you are getting if they are associated with previous massive projects. The charges are then according to their experience and troubleshooting complexity. ### 6\. Professional Vector Illustration On [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=), you can get a clean, professional, and modern vector illustration for your project. Freelance illustrators on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) can create vector illustrations for content such as promotional materials, education, social media, commercial, and other purposes. ### 7\. Product Design [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) gigs with product design include designing high-quality Stickers, labels, and promotional materials for your product. These types of service provide top-notch design, prompt responses from the freelancer, Print ready/ editable file from the service provider. In looking for Designers, make sure to do a background check on who you are going to hire for your project. Ensure that negotiations include full transparency and trust between you and the designer. ### 8\. Branded SEO Articles On [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=), you can find freelancers that can offer [SEO focused](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/) blog posts. For your brand or project, you can specify the goal of your blog post and the site where it will be published to optimize the job for the targeted audience. You just need to elaborate on your target audience and the tone of your brand. This approach can help the prospective writer to match their writing to your company. The aim is to make the post sound as if it is coming from you and not from a freelancer. ### 9\. 3D Character Design and Animation [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) has expert designers and animators that can work to help you create your characters for your project. The service usually includes modeling of your role in a — 3d application, of joint and bone to your style for animation and, of course, animation. ### 10\. Voice Over You can also find excellent voice-over artists on Fiverr that have a lot of experience in their field. Some [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) freelancers even have the experience of working with big brands such as Adidas and National Geographic, hence you can find Fiverr voice over actors that provide studio-quality recording and can do numerous dialects, and character voices. ### 11\. Audio Mixing and Mastering Another most popular gig is audio mixing. [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) has music studio freelancers that provide professional quality sounds at competitive prices. Some studios have produced thousands of songs with professional quality. If you have an album or songs that you would like to enhance further Fiverr should be the right platform!  ### 12\. Audiobook Production If you would like to have an audiobook recorded with a top-notch voice-over artist, you can find this service [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=). Voice over artists can do all sorts of accents according to what your project requires. Audiobook recording services can be done for non-fiction books, Kindle publishers and books, and audiobook publishers. ### 13\. Scriptwriting [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) has a category for writers to write your scripts, screenplays for TV or Film, Webinars, and even editing an already drafted script. It’s a matter of looking for what service you require and finding the writer that could fit your budget and skill set needed for your specific project. ### 14\. Proofreading Proofreading services are also available on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) where the editors can edit your writing at a decent speed, some even finishing their proofreading within 24 hours. Some proofreading services also include writing and providing feedback on your book. ### 15\. Legal Writing If you ever need someone to write robust and comprehensive legal documents or contracts for you, there are freelancing professionals on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) as well to address these matters at competitive prices. Legal writing freelancers on Fiverr can handle legal documents like terms and conditions and privacy policy.  ### 16\. User Testing If you have a product to launch and would want to know what to improve on, [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) has freelancers that offer user testing just for that purpose. If you have a website or an app in development, there are teams on Fiverr that can provide professional QA service to test your product, feedback on its functionality, and review its usability. ### 17\. Financial Consultation You can find professional financial consulting services on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) such as bookkeeping, finance management, and handling your queries on taxes. Fiverr professional freelancers that can give you a high quality, comprehensive financial analysis, project report, and ratio reports that can help you better manage your business. ### 18\. Visual Effects If you have video content that requires professional visual effects, you can find Fiverr freelancers that can surely fill your needs. Visual effects artists on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) can do top-notch rotoscoping, after effects, clean up, and custom animations, amongst other services. ### 19\. Crowdfunding If you have a project that lacks funding, you can quickly start a Kickstarter with the help of Fiverr. [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) has freelancers that can help you pitch your Kickstarter project. In terms of crowdfunding, you can find freelancers that can professionally promote your Kickstarter, along with reviewing and revising the campaign for your particular project. ### 20\. E-Commerce development If you want to [set up an online store](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) and develop the marketing side of your business, [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) has professionals that can help you with just that. E-Commerce development services include setting up and making a comprehensive Shopify website for your business. ### 21\. Persona Videos Persona videos are a great tool to reach your target audience. For example, you have a website for teenagers. A persona video with ideas and thoughts from the same demographic will reach them. Fiverr has tons of persona video gigs, and you can find someone who fits your target audience demographic. ### 22\. Video/Audio Intros Of course, you need a video or audio intro if you want to maximize your audio-video content. If you want professional-looking intros, get ready to pay a fortune. But, if you want to save money, hiring from Fiverr is a workaround.  ### 24\. Transcription While video and audio content helps gain traffic, it doesn’t really help with SEO because Google doesn’t know what your video’s about. To go around this, you can create transcripts for your video and audio content. But, if you don’t want to deal with the hassle, you can always hire a freelancer from Fiverr. There are tons of transcription gigs on Fiverr that you can avail of for as low as $5 for 10 minutes. ### 25\. Whiteboard Animation Video Creator [Animated videos](https://www.dreamgrow.com/animated-video/) have been becoming more popular in recent years. It’s not only an excellent way to attract customers, but it’s also a great tool to educate customers. However, if you don’t know how to make a video even with [animation software](https://www.webdew.com/blog/whiteboard-animation-software), hiring a video creator is always an option. Like other gigs I’ve mentioned, Whiteboard Animation Video Creators are all over Fiverr as well. ### 26\. Resume and Cover Letter Writing Freelance resume writers are in high-demand recently. Generally, these resume writers help turn boring resumes into marketing tools that you can use to display your skills and experience. Not knowing how to write a resume isn’t a problem, especially because resume-writing gigs are widely available on Fiverr. If you think you can’t [turn a resume into a marketing tool](https://www.employmentcrossing.com/article/900013583/Resume-The-Essential-Marketing-Tool/), I suggest you hire a Fiverr freelancer to do the job. ## Benefits of Fiverr [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) is an online platform that gives benefits to entrepreneurs and people looking for particular services. I have rounded up some of these here. **1\. Transparency of Information** In [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=), employers will see all necessary and required information from freelancers and service providers. This information includes feedback from past clients, ratings, number of gigs, or jobs that they have completed and incidents of cancellation. This information provides confidence to potential buyers, having the information on their potential collaborators. **2\. A haven for Sellers/Freelancers** Freelancers have been shifting to [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) because of the low fee charged, which eases the freelance hunt. Anyone can join this online platform, which doesn’t require sophisticated technical skills to sign up or set up an account. Freelancers who have creative expertise can easily earn money on Fiverr. Another benefit for Freelancers is that they can get paid for their passion, which makes work much more fun of course. They also get to have more exposure from potential buyers to search for their services. **3\. Filtered Search for Sellers** [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) allows you to filter your search for freelancers depending on their expert level. are freelancers who have a variety of job completion ratings and statuses. Their services are available at different price points depending on performance reviews and level of skill. This filter feature allows employers to find a freelancer who fits their budget and requirements. **4\. Security of Personal Details** Personal details of both freelancers and the employers are protected. The online platform only gives out data that assists sellers in learning more comprehensively about their potential employer. Every user’s privacy is secured and protected, allowing them to conduct business and transactions with confidence and peace of mind. **5\. Protection of Buyer Payments** Regardless of payment method, [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) assures users that their financial information is safe. This feature gives users security and assurance that their data is not compromised. All financial transactions take place on Fiverr. Payments are made through credit cards, Paypal, and other forms of electronic payments. **6\. Communication Privacy** Within the collaboration and hiring process, [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) gives avenues for sellers and buyers to communicate privately and efficiently. Parties involved can chat securely and ensure that the details of their projects remain between them only. ## Fiverr at a glance All in all, [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) is a great site to be at as someone who needs a specific professional service. It is a user-friendly marketplace for both the sellers and buyers. If you are a business looking for any kind of service, I recommend you have a look at Fiverr and explore the site. Make sure you spend some time looking for the best fit for your task to avoid any ill-fitting. Did you find this post helpful?? Learn more about online and hacks and reviews here: - [How to invite your friends to like a Facebook page?](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) - [How to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) - [Get more Snapchat followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) Also, don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know if you have used Fiverr or would like to suggest any other similar platforms. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How Does Facebook (Meta) Make Money? The 2026 Revenue Breakdown Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/ Published: 2022-03-12 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, Marketing TL;DR: Meta makes ~$165B a year. About 98% is ads — sold across Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads via the same Ads Manager. The other 2% is Reality Labs (Quest VR headsets, AR research), which loses ~$15B/yr but ships. ## Table of contents Meta (parent of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads) brought in roughly **$165B** in 2024 revenue ([Meta 10-K](https://investor.atmeta.com/)). That makes it about half the size of Alphabet by revenue, but on a different shape: Meta is essentially an *ad business with a VR research moonshot bolted on*. This is the operator-grade 2026 breakdown.
Meta Platforms, Inc.
Parent company since the 2021 rebrand. Owns Facebook (Blue), Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, Threads, plus Reality Labs (Quest VR / AR research). Trades as $META on NASDAQ.
## The $165B revenue split
~98%
Advertising (Family of Apps)
~2%
Reality Labs (Quest + AR)
~0%
Other
Meta is the cleanest "ad business" of the FAANG companies — ~98% of revenue comes from a single product (ads in the feed) running across four surfaces (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Threads). ## 1 · The ad business Meta's ad business runs through a unified **Ads Manager** that places inventory across:
  1. 01
    Instagram Feed + Reels + Stories. ~50% of Meta's ad inventory by 2026 estimates. Reels has been the growth engine since 2022 — Meta's TikTok response, now monetizing at competitive CPMs.
  2. 02
    Facebook Feed + Stories + Marketplace + Groups. The legacy surface; still the largest share of impressions but with the lowest per-impression value and an older audience.
  3. 03
    Messenger + WhatsApp Business. Click-to-message ads (Messenger and WhatsApp) are growing fastest of any Meta ad surface — they monetize at 2–3x the rate of feed ads for relevant verticals (B2C local services, e-commerce in EMEA, B2B SaaS in India).
  4. 04
    Threads. Crossed ~200M MAU by mid-2025. Ads rolled out gradually starting 2024; still a tiny revenue line but the early data is encouraging.
  5. 05
    Audience Network. Meta serves ads on third-party apps. Shrinking as a share post-iOS 14.5 ATT changes; still material.
## 2 · Ad targeting and the AI bidding shift The 2026 reality is that Meta's ad system is now **AI-driven by default**. The targeting + bidding products that built Meta — Custom Audiences, Lookalike Audiences, detailed interest targeting — still exist, but the recommended path for nearly every advertiser is now: - **Advantage+ Shopping** for e-commerce - **Advantage+ App** for mobile apps - **Performance+** for general lead-gen and traffic These are AI-bidded campaign types where Meta's models do most of the targeting + creative selection work. They've consistently outperformed manual campaigns since the 2023 rollout — particularly for smaller advertisers without dedicated media teams. ## 3 · Reality Labs — the moonshot Reality Labs (Quest VR headsets + AR research + the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses) is the line that scares analysts. **It loses ~$15B/yr** consistently and accounts for ~2% of revenue. What's actually shipping in 2026: - **Meta Quest 3 + Quest 3S** — the consumer headsets. Quest 3S launched 2024 as the $299 entry-level Quest. Meaningful holiday-season seller but still niche relative to gaming consoles. - **Ray-Ban Meta** smart glasses — surprise hit. Sold ~1M+ units in 2024. The integrated AI assistant (Llama-powered) and Live Translation are the killer features. - **Orion** — the AR glasses prototype Meta demoed at Connect 2024. Not a consumer product yet. Mark Zuckerberg's stated bet. The pitch from Meta leadership: Reality Labs is a multi-decade investment, and either AR/VR becomes the next computing platform (vindicating the spend) or it doesn't (in which case Meta will eventually pull back). ## 4 · The AI angle — Llama and Meta AI Meta released **Llama 4** in early 2025 — the open-weights model family that competes with Claude and GPT-5. Llama isn't a revenue line directly, but it's strategic in two ways: - It powers **Meta AI** (the assistant inside Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Ray-Ban Meta) — which is now reaching ~1B users monthly - It's the **open-source bet** — by giving away strong models, Meta pressures OpenAI and Anthropic on price + dependency risk for enterprises building AI apps Whether Meta AI ever monetizes directly (ads in the chat, paid premium tier) is the open question for 2026–2027. ## Meta vs Google vs Amazon — ad market scale
Meta
  • ~$162B ad revenue (2024)
  • ~3.4B daily users across family
  • ~98% revenue from ads
  • Reels + Advantage+ growing
vs
Google
  • ~$265B ad revenue (2024)
  • Search + YouTube + Network
  • ~76% of Alphabet revenue
## The 2026 user numbers - **Family of Apps DAU:** ~3.4B daily users (Meta Q4 2024) - **Facebook MAU:** ~3.07B - **Instagram MAU:** ~2.4B - **WhatsApp MAU:** ~2B - **Threads MAU:** ~200M (and growing) - **Average revenue per user (ARPU):** ~$13/quarter globally; ~$60/quarter in US/Canada Meta has more daily users than any company in history. The challenge is monetizing them at increasing rates without driving them away — the 2024–2025 push toward Reels (longer sessions per day) was the main lever. ## How Meta got here — timeline
  1. 2004Facebook launches at Harvard.
  2. 2007Facebook Ads launches — the start of the ad business.
  3. 2012Acquires Instagram for $1B. IPO at $104B valuation.
  4. 2014Acquires WhatsApp for $19B + Oculus for $2B.
  5. 2018Cambridge Analytica scandal. Stories format dominates.
  6. 2020iOS 14.5 ATT changes; Meta loses ~$10B/yr in attribution.
  7. 2021Rebrand to Meta. Reality Labs spend accelerates.
  8. 2022Reels rolls out broadly as TikTok response.
  9. 2023Threads launches July 2023. Llama open-sourced.
  10. 2024Advantage+ AI campaigns dominant. Ray-Ban Meta hits 1M+ units.
  11. 2025Llama 4 ships. Meta AI crosses 1B MAU. Threads at ~200M MAU.
## Bottom line Facebook (Meta) makes money the way it always has: by selling targeted advertising at unprecedented scale. The 2026 differences are that (1) the inventory now spans four major apps instead of one, (2) the targeting is AI-driven by default, and (3) Reality Labs is the moonshot that either becomes the next computing platform or gets quietly trimmed. For advertisers in 2026: Meta is *more* effective than it was post-iOS 14.5 — Advantage+ has largely restored the unit economics. The platform isn't dying; it's just less interesting as a topic of conversation. > Related: [How Google makes money](/how-does-google-make-money/) · [How Snapchat makes money](/does-snapchat-make-money/) · [How Discord makes money](/how-does-discord-make-money/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How to Contact Instagram Support 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/ Published: 2022-03-12 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: If you want to increase your odds of receiving a response back from 0% to 0.001% then continue reading. Btw, you are probably more likely to receive faster support if you are verified on Instagram or are an influencer. ## Table of contents You have a problem with your Instagram account and you are seeking support. Here are ways to contact IG in May 2026 and get your account issues solved. Please note that given the high volume of Instagram users, it is highly unlikely you will get a response back, unless it’s a security breach or a known exploit. If you want to increase your odds of receiving a response back from 0% to 0.001% then continue reading. Btw, you are probably more likely to receive faster support if you are [verified on Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) or are an [influencer](http://soinfluential.com/). ## How To Contact Instagram Support Fast To submit a support ticket on Instagram follow these steps: 1. Go to [help.instagram.com](https://help.instagram.com/) 2. On the left-hand side, click **Privacy and Safety Center** 3. Click **Report Something** 4. Select the type of issue you’re experiencing 5. Look for a link that says *report it* 6. Fill out the form and hit send You can also do this (although with fewer options) directly on the Instagram mobile app. The steps there are: 1. Go to your **Profile** 2. Hit **Settings** at the top right 3. Scroll down to **Support > Report a Problem** 4. Follow the instructions there ## Why aren’t you receiving a response back from Instagram? The answer is twofold: for starters, your issue is most likely not that high of a priority for Instagram. Second, they have 1 billion users ([as of June 2018](https://www.statista.com/statistics/253577/number-of-monthly-active-instagram-users/)) they probably get an absurd amount of support tickets which are too much to handle (even for a company the size of Facebook). Instagram is known for their beautiful pictures, not their customer service, unfortunately.  ## Where to find quick help for your Instagram problems A good place to go is the Help Portal at [help.instagram.com](https://help.instagram.com/). You can type your question at the top and see if there’s an answer that satisfies you.   Another place would be to try your luck and message Instagram’s [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Instagram) or [Twitter page](https://twitter.com/instagram). You can also try asking your question on Reddit [r/instagram](https://www.reddit.com/r/Instagram/). ## What types of problems can you report to Instagram? Here’s a list of all the issues you can request support for: 1. **Hacked Accounts** – Select this option if you believe that your account has been hacked. 2. **Impersonation Accounts** – Select this option if you have evidence of an account impersonating you. 3. **Underage Children** – Click this option if you think you’ve found an account belonging to someone under the age of 13. 4. **Hate Accounts** – Click this option to report a hate-speech account. 5. **Exposed Private Information** – Select this option if you encounter someone posting a user’s private information (e.g., home address). 6. **Self-Injury** – Click this option to report posts in which another user is clearly harming themselves. 7. **Abuse & Spam** – Click this option to report abuse, spam, or harassment. 8. **Exploitation** – Select this option to view resources regarding reporting human trafficking. 9. **Other** – If you don’t see your reason for wanting to contact Instagram, click this option. ## Contact Instagram via your Facebook Ads Account Manager If you are spending some serious money on FB/IG ads, you will be assigned a FB Ad Account Manager. You can try submitting your question/concern through them. Since it’s in Facebook’s best interest to keep you happy (so you spend more), they will probably get back to you quickly. ## Previous ways to contact Instagram There used to be an email for Instagram support: support@instagram.com, but it’s no longer been *supported.* If you try to email them you will get: ![](/images/posts/inline/ea568fc5-instagram-support-email-1024x301.png) *Hi,* *You’ve reached us at a channel that we no longer support. Please visit the Help Center to find answers to many frequently asked questions and up-to-date forms you can use to contact us:* [http://help.instagram.com/](http://help.instagram.com/) *We apologize for the inconvenience.* *Sincerely, The Instagram Team* ## FAQ #### What is Instagram customer support number ? It’s 650-543-4800. (Note: automated response, no humans) #### How do you get verified on Instagram? You can apply for Instagram verification inside the app! For more instructions read [this article](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/). #### How long does it take to hear back from Instagram support? About one week. #### How to report a bug/technical issue to Instagram? You can do it through the mobile app. 1. Go to your profile and tap Settings. 2. Tap Help > Report a Problem, then follow the on-screen instructions Make sure to include as much detail about the problem as possible in your report. Information like the kind of phone or tablet you were using, the device OS version, and what you were doing when the problem occurred can help IG better understand the bug. ## Now it’s your turn! Did you contact IG support? Comment below and tell us how it went. Some readers like posting their issue, sometimes another reader might know the answer or benefit from your insight. Btw, I don’t work for/at Instagram, so you should **not** contact me with your account issues. I won’t be able to help you. If you liked this article, check out: - [Get verified on IG](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) ☑️ (step-by-step) - Here’s [how Instagram makes money!](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) - [How does Snapchat make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) - [How to invite all your Facebook friends to like your page](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) - ✔️ [How to get verified on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The 2026 Instagram reality: **Reels are the discovery primitive**, Stories carry retention, Feed is for credentialing. The "hidden likes" toggle is still in account settings (Privacy → Posts) — Meta has kept it. Verification flipped to the **Meta Verified subscription** in early 2024 (~$14.99/mo on iOS/Android in the US), so any post still saying "free blue tick" is outdated. The contact-Instagram-support flow is markedly better now: in-app **Help → Report a problem** routes most issues to a real human within ~48h for Meta Verified accounts. ~2.4B MAU as of Meta's Q4 2025 disclosure. If you're trying to grow in 2026, the share of organic reach coming from Reels vs. Feed is roughly:
Reels
~78%
Feed
~14%
Stories
~8%
_Directional, based on creator-tool analytics published by Later + Buffer in late 2025. Optimize accordingly._ --- ## How to Get Verified on Instagram for Free ☑️ Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/ Published: 2022-03-12 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Instagram looks at 4 factors to determine whether your account is worthy of the blue badge. Authenticity: Your account must represent a real person, registered business or entity. ## Table of contents Are you looking to get that blue checkmark next to your Instagram username?  Here are the **[official instructions](https://www.facebook.com/business/learn/lessons/verify-facebook-instagram-account)** from Facebook. Today, I’ll show you how to make it happen (for free!).  **2022 update: Now anyone can request an official verification badge directly through Instagram.** *Don’t believe anyone selling you verification. I don’t and I never did. I also don’t work at/for Instagram, so won’t be able to help you troubleshoot any of your problems. You can* [*contact Instagram support*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/) *following this guide.*  Before we dive into how to get verified, it’s important that you know who can get verified.  ### What are the eligibility requirements to get verified on Instagram? Instagram looks at 4 factors to determine whether your account is worthy of the blue badge. These are:  1. **Authenticity**: Your account must represent a real person, registered business or entity. 2. **Uniqueness**: Your account must be the unique presence of the person or business it represents. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. Compilation accounts or accounts that don’t post original content won’t be verified (e.g. rap videos, funny memes, fan pages, etc). 3. **Completeness**: Your account privacy must be set to public. It should also have a bio, profile photo and at least one post (more posts is better). Your profile can’t contain “add me” links to other social media services. 4. **Noteworthiness**: Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity. They want accounts that are featured in multiple news sources, and don’t consider paid or promotional content as sources for review. (see step #1 below) Also, needless to say, your account also needs to follow Instagram’s [Terms of Service](https://help.instagram.com/581066165581870) and [Community Guidelines](https://help.instagram.com/477434105621119).  Now let’s get to the fun part… ## 2 steps to apply for verification on IG https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpP1HIP3dmc&feature=youtu.be&ab\_channel=ChristienBouc *If you already have significant press written about you, skip to step number 2.*  ## 1\. Get press written about you  Only select people on Instagram are handed a verification badge as I explained above. Those include celebrities, musicians, actors, and people with large followings and press in real life.  #### Pro tips to supercharge your press Instagram will attempt to verify your noteworthiness to see if you are qualified for a blue checkmark.  While their exact efforts are not divulged, it’s likely that Instagram will search your name/username on Google and try to see if you have been covered in many publications.  If you don’t have press, you can get featured on my sites here: - [ Sale Product on sale ![7 Site Press Package](/images/posts/inline/4543cae5-pr-bundles-300x150.png) 7 Site Press Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/7-site-package/) ~$2,000~ Original price was: $2,000.$975Current price is: $975. Rated **5.00** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=3&lang=en&add-to-cart=25584) - [ Sale Product on sale ![4 Site Package](/images/posts/inline/e652d2ff-2.png) 4 Site Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/4-site-package/) ~$1,000~ Original price was: $1,000.$725Current price is: $725. Rated **4.86** out of 5 based on 7 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=3&lang=en&add-to-cart=22203) - [ Sale Product on sale ![3 Site Package](/images/posts/inline/be678ed9-1.png) 3 Site Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/3-site-package/) ~$875~ Original price was: $875.$625Current price is: $625. Rated **4.83** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=3&lang=en&add-to-cart=22195) Here are other tips to [get on Forbes, Mashable, Techcrunch and others](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/).  ### 2\. Apply for verification directly on the Instagram app Follow the following steps on the IG app to request a verified badge: 1. Make sure you’re logged in to the account you’re requesting a verified badge for. 2. Go to your profile and tap the 3 horizontal lines at the top right. 3. Tap ⚙ Settings > Account > Request Verification. 4. Enter your Full name, Known As, Account Category, and provide the required form of identification (example: government-issued photo ID, driver’s license, passport. If you are a business, you can provide tax returns, utility bill, etc). 5. Press “Send” and wait for a decision! ![](/images/posts/inline/92000211-steps-to-get-verified-on-instagram-app-1024x536.png) ![](/images/posts/inline/5ddf7f0c-request-verification-on-instagram-1024x536.png) ## FAQ ### What is a verified badge on Instagram? ![](/images/posts/inline/7d237aff-verified-badge-instagram-1024x267.png) From Instagram: “A verified badge is a check that appears next to an Instagram account’s name in search and on the profile. It means Instagram has confirmed that an account is the authentic presence of the public figure, celebrity or global brand it represents”. ### How much does IG verification cost? Do I need to pay anything? It’s free. Instagram doesn’t charge or request payment for verification. Please apply directly through IG and don’t use any third party.  ### How many followers do you need to get verified on Instagram? There’s no minimum. However, having more followers definitely helps, so read this guide to [increase your IG follower count](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/).  ### What happens after you apply for a blue checkmark? After you apply for verification, Instagram will let you know in a span of 1-2 weeks whether your account was verified or not. This is what their official docs say: “We look at a number of factors when evaluating Instagram accounts to determine if they’re in the public interest and meet our verification criteria. Even if your account is eligible for verification, submitting a request doesn’t guarantee that your account will be verified.” ### How does Instagram let you know if your account was verified? Instagram will send you an in-app notification that looks like this. ![](/images/posts/inline/eeb9bb1b-instagram-succesful-verification.png) ### Will I know why my verification was denied? ![](/images/posts/inline/03ddff7f-instagram-denied-verification.png) Instagram unfortunately doesn’t provide with any specifics as to why your application was denied. ### Can you reapply for verification if you are denied? Yes, you will just need to wait 30 days since your last decision.  ### How many accounts can I get verified? In most cases, only one account per person with the exception of super large brands (think Costco and Costco California) or accounts in multiple languages (CNN, CNN español).   ### Is the badge permanent? As long as you follow Instagram’s terms of service, yes.  However, they might remove your verification (or even disable your account) if you: - Advertise, transfer or sell your verified badge. - Use your profile picture, bio or name section to promote other services. - Attempt to verify your account through a third party. Keep in mind that if you provide false or misleading information during the verification process, we will remove your verified badge and may take additional action to delete your account. ### What if you are not able to be verified? It won’t be the end of the world. For the most part, the verification is just for ego-stroking.  There are also other ways to make sure people find your official Instagram account. For instance, you can add it on your Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, Linkedin, emails, website, etc.  ### What are the benefits of getting verified? Your account will gain more trust in the eyes of your followers, helping you fend off any impersonators, cloned accounts, and others. It will also appear higher in searches.  If you want to learn more about Verification Badges, read [Instagram’s support page](https://help.instagram.com/854227311295302).  ## Bottom line That’s how you apply for verification on Instagram.  If you were successful in following these steps, please drop a comment with your username so I can check it out and give you a follow! (while you are here, also follow me [@YoungSlacker](https://www.instagram.com/youngslacker)!)  Keep in mind that even if your account is eligible for verification, submitting a request doesn’t guarantee that your account will be verified.  Here are other posts you should read: - [How to get verified on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) - [Guide to get more Instagram followers](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/)  - [Need to contact IG](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/) to get an update on your verification application? --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The 2026 Instagram reality: **Reels are the discovery primitive**, Stories carry retention, Feed is for credentialing. The "hidden likes" toggle is still in account settings (Privacy → Posts) — Meta has kept it. Verification flipped to the **Meta Verified subscription** in early 2024 (~$14.99/mo on iOS/Android in the US), so any post still saying "free blue tick" is outdated. The contact-Instagram-support flow is markedly better now: in-app **Help → Report a problem** routes most issues to a real human within ~48h for Meta Verified accounts. ~2.4B MAU as of Meta's Q4 2025 disclosure. If you're trying to grow in 2026, the share of organic reach coming from Reels vs. Feed is roughly:
Reels
~78%
Feed
~14%
Stories
~8%
_Directional, based on creator-tool analytics published by Later + Buffer in late 2025. Optimize accordingly._ --- ## Freeeup Review [2026]: A Marketplace To Hire The Best Remote Team Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/freeeup-review/ Published: 2022-03-11 Updated: 2026-05-03 Tags: Marketing, SEO, affiliate marketing, freelance, marketing budget TL;DR: Relevant: Also read how to outsource your task for $5+ on Fiverr I mentioned that Freeeup only chooses 1% of the freelancers that apply wanting to be a part of the marketplace. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Delegate they say! But to the right ones! I know I won’t have been able to balance my work and social life without my freelancers’ team, and I always recommend delegating tasks to the experts.  But it’s not always so easy to find the right team, is it? Even though there are many freelancing websites out there and you can find quality everywhere, [Freeeup](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/freeeup/) is the place where you go to get straight to the quality without all the fuss. The reason why Freeeup has some of the most high-quality professionals working there is that only 1% of the top applicants are even accepted into the marketplace. You can’t just go and log in and get to business. No, no. It’s not at all that easy. You need to be an exceptional freelancer already that has something great to offer in order to be accepted as a part of Freeeup. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/kSM91fEzydBs676gIQWHMsP4vuEYVSdohWRd9bSEEAikmOQCxccJw427vOJDjDg3ATnt0cROCWc4ykCOEvkJ8cHvst1epprDPoKe-_k2r77Lr3uM0b1RBzBjes1CIhhSTAGffuQL) To do this, all the freelancers go through a thorough vetting process that I will explain later, and they are hand-picked as the top of their category. This is what makes Freeeup one of my favorite places to hire freelancers. (I have 8 freelancers on my team, and one of them helped me edit this post!) I know that every time I will get a professional freelancer who will communicate well, and then do the job as I requested it. My personal experience with Freeeup is highly pleasant, and I will continue to use it, but let me tell you why you should too! ## The start of Freeeup The CEO and founder of Freeeup Nathan Hirsch explained in [an interview with Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com/nathan-hirsch/) how he came to the idea to start Freeeup. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/6Tq0X1H3f_WcX7mzFUWuaUzBW13UIWK2gbuRDCa5HcIIMAnA-BWRbqPttrQRx1Jt_-PclmObF3xgmv-DDK5IqewpjLjf3hVxs8OD7WG9XZcfFd2a9JqXhdvBoLd3bCdfcOafYxfS) [](https://www.deathwishcoffee.com/pages/fueled-by-death-cast-nathan-hirsch)Namely, he was already a [successful e-commerce seller](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) back in the day. He literally started his business out of his college dorm, but when his business needed support from other employees he found it hard to acquire some. The main problem was that his peers were not mature enough to tackle the tasks, but the serious professionals didn’t want to work for a 20-year-old boss who’s just starting out. That is why Nathan went into the world of hiring freelancers. He found that hiring help through online marketplaces worked amazingly for him. However, the problems that came with that were something that Nathan kept thinking about. It took him a long time to post a job, then to acquire good candidates, and to make a decision on which one is the perfect fit. That is when he got the idea to build this faster, high-quality marketplace for freelancers where the experience would be much better and faster. And this idea made him quite famous and successful, [being featured](https://www.forbes.com/sites/cognitiveworld/2019/10/22/entrepreneurship-is-taking-advantage-of-luck/#75f84cab5236) in important [Forbes](https://flux.la/get-featured-forbes-techcrunch-mashable-inc/) lists.  Relevant: [Also read how to outsource your task for $5+ on Fiverr](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/) ## Freeeup Freelancer Selection Process I mentioned that Freeeup only chooses 1% of the freelancers that apply wanting to be a part of the marketplace. In order for them to do that, the freelancers go through a tough and quite long process with multiple steps. If you are interested in becoming a freelancer on Freeeup, you need to go through the following steps: ### Sign up Go to [Freeeup.com](https://futuresharks.com/nathan-hirsch/) and sign up as the first step. The signing up is completely free and there are no fees that you need to pay regardless of whether you’re accepted or not. In this process you are giving all kinds of information about yourself and your work, CV, portfolios, what type of services you offer, plans for the future, expectations, and many other things. Based on your application, Freeeup will contact you on e-mail telling you if you’re accepted into the next round. ### Interview After Freeeup team makes up their mind on whether you’re worthy of being their freelancer, you will be contacted via e-mail. If you’re going forward with the process, you will be [invited for an interview](https://bizdig.co/career/the-complete-job-hunting-and-interview-guide/). You will schedule a time for the interview via e-mail and wait. *Skype—*the interview takes place on Skype with a team from Freeeup. You don’t need to prepare anything beforehand. The interview lasts around an hour and you will be asked plenty of things about your previous working experiences, about your future plans and wishes, how you communicate with clients and many other things. ### Final Test If you did well in the interview, you will be informed again by e-mail. The last step of the process is to read several documents important for Freeeup and take tests about them. After that step, Freeeup team will let you know whether you’re in. If you are on the other side of the marketplace and you’re looking to hire a top-notch freelancer, then the process is fairly easy too. You need to create a free account to start. Then you click the “Request” button. Following that,, you need to fill out details about the needed freelancer and submit the form. One business day later, you’ll be introduced to a freelancer that the Freeeup team hand-picked, especially for your needs. If you want more than one, you can just let Freeeup know and they will provide more freelancers. Once you are introduced to the freelancer, you can interview them, ask them questions, etc. If you like them, you can hire them. If not, you can ask for another freelancer. Relevant: [Also read my guide on how to engage with writers](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) ## Payments Payments are happening on a weekly basis. The money is sent to the accounts that you choose to set up with Freeeup. There are billing periods that last for a week from Wednesday to Tuesday every week. In this period, freelancers keep a record of their hours worked, and after the billing period is finished on Tuesday, the clients are billed on Thursday. The money reaches the freelancers’ accounts the following Thursday. This is always the case with payment on Freeeup. It is quite easy to set up an account with Freeeup, and it is quite organized getting paid once a week. ## Levels of freelancers As in all the other marketplaces where freelancers are offering their services, there are a few levels of freelancers according to their experience and professionalism. Freeeup ranks their skills in three levels and: 1. Basic Level—these are freelancers that have a few years of experience and can complete your tasks at a specified time. These freelancers are usually good for those clients that have already systems in place and they just need more people to work on those systems. 2. Mid-Level—these freelancers have much more experience and are more specialized. They can follow your systems, but they can also handle their own processes. They are a mix of affordable help with highly developed skills. 3.  Expert Level—these freelancers are consultants and strategists. They are the best of the best and can help you with the important and crucial parts of your business. The prices range according to these levels and they can start as low as $5, and go as high as $75 per hour. You can choose US freelancers or non-US freelancers. ## Customer Service Freeeup has one of the best customer service platforms out of all the other marketplaces. There is always somebody that is ready to assist, and in my experience, they actually help with solving whatever problem it is that you have. The access to the support team is extremely easy, and the whole hiring process is quick and as painless as possible. You just need to know what you want from a freelancer, and the team will take care of the rest. This is [how you build proper trust in your brand](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/).  ## Bottom line Freeeup is a small marketplace that is fairly new. There are thousands of freelancers that are a part of the marketplace and it has been up and running since 2015. That is quite new when compared to other freelancing marketplaces like UpWork for example that started all the way back in 1999 and has more than 12 million freelancers. However, the focus that goes into pre-vetting every single freelancer that becomes a part of Freeeup is what makes this the best possible place for successful long-term collaborations. The extremely responsive customer service that is always there to help out immediately when a problem arises is another reason why Freeeup is growing with the speed that it is. Even [Forbes](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) recognized Nathan’s efforts multiple times. In a time where there are many just-in-time needs to be filled, Freeeup is a genius idea.  It is a fact that more and more entrepreneurs and companies reach out to hire people online as freelance services because it is faster and with fewer obligations.  That being said, if you are interested in hiring serious freelancers that are highly professional, then you can’t make a mistake by going to Freeeup. If you found this review helpful, check out these other reviews and guides: - [How to get more views on Youtube?](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) - [Review of Audible](https://alejandrorioja.com/audible-review/) - [SEO tips guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)  Leave a comment below and let me know what other reviews you’d be interested in. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Get Verified on Facebook: Page or Profile (Blue + Gray Verification Badge) for FREE [2026] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/ Published: 2022-03-11 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Getting verified on Facebook (whether it is a personal profile or a page) is actually very simple. In this post, I list the steps that you need to follow to get that highly sought-after blue verification badge to your name. ## Table of contents *I recently just updated this article to reflect the latest changes to getting verified on Facebook. Enjoy!* Ahh, the blue checkmark. The one additional feature that your Facebook page can have over your friends’ pages. Every day, I get tons of messages about this. But is it worth it and will it [transform your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/)? and what are the steps to apply? **Getting verified on Facebook** (whether it is a personal profile or a page) is actually very simple. In this post, I list the steps that you need to follow to get that highly sought-after **blue verification badge** to your name. (Note: the grey badge is no longer available) I decided to break it down into 3 parts: 1. How to **get your personal profile or business Facebook page ready** for the blue badge 2. **Steps to apply** via the Facebook form 3. **FAQ** – Benefits of being verified, length of approval and more You might be wondering if you need a lot of followers to get verified. This doesn’t seem to be the case as long as you can prove you are someone worthy of a blue badge. So read on to figure out **how to get verified on Facebook**. ## Facebook verification link If you are just looking for the [verification contact form](https://www.facebook.com/help/contact/295038365360854), here it is. Good luck! *If that doesn’t work, paste this link on your browser*: https://www.facebook.com/help/contact/295038365360854 *If that still doesn’t work, then your country isn’t eligible. This link works as of March 12, 2026 in the United States.* This is what it looks like. ![](/images/posts/inline/0849a571-image-1.png) ## 1\. How to get your personal profile or business page or profile ready for verification (Blue Badge) First, let me start by saying that not every page or profile can be verified, unfortunately. Similar to [Instagram verification requirements](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/), Facebook [states](https://www.facebook.com/help/1288173394636262?helpref=search&sr=3&query=blue) that your account needs to meet the following 4 requisites to be verified. Your account should be: 1. **Authentic**: Your account must represent a real person, registered business or entity. 2. **Unique**: Your account must be the unique presence of the person or business it represents. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. They don’t verify general interest accounts (example: Funny Memes, Rap Videos, etc). 3. **Complete**: Your account must be active and have an about section, profile photo and at least one post. 4. **Notable**: Your account must represent a well-known, often searched person, brand or entity. They review accounts that are featured in multiple news sources, and they don’t consider paid or promotional content as sources for review. While most personal pages will be fine meeting the first 3 requirements, the #4 one (notability) is the hardest one to achieve. It requires that you know [how to get press for yourself](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/). (<–read that article to find out how). **Action:** Want to get written up on the press quickly? Check out any of these bundles: - [ Sale Product on sale ![5 Site Press Package](/images/posts/inline/e0259c10-3.png) 5 Site Press Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/5-site-package/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/5-site-package/) ~$1,100~ Original price was: $1,100.$775Current price is: $775. Rated **4.75** out of 5 based on 4 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/16879?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus%2Clang&add-to-cart=25590) - [ Sale Product on sale ![7 Site Press Package](/images/posts/inline/4543cae5-pr-bundles-300x150.png) 7 Site Press Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/7-site-package/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/7-site-package/) ~$2,000~ Original price was: $2,000.$975Current price is: $975. Rated **5.00** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/16879?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus%2Clang&add-to-cart=25584) - [ Sale Product on sale ![3 Site Package](/images/posts/inline/be678ed9-1.png) 3 Site Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/3-site-package/) [](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/3-site-package/) ~$875~ Original price was: $875.$625Current price is: $625. Rated **4.83** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts/16879?_fields=id%2Ctitle%2Ccontent%2Cdate%2Cmodified%2Cslug%2Clink%2Cauthor%2Cstatus%2Clang&add-to-cart=22195) ### Here’s how you can ensure your page meets all the criteria before requesting verification: - Post high-quality, professional and engaging content. That means very good images, high engagement, and an overall cohesive brand feel. (Optional: you can run ads to boost your posts) - Link to your profile or Page from your official website. (optional, but why wouldn’t you) - For a Facebook Page, different types of basic information boxes will appear in your Page’s About section depending on your Page’s category. It’s important to add accurate details so that people can quickly learn about your Page. Include your website, address, phone number, awards, bio, and more. The more complete it is, the better. - For a Facebook profile, provide accurate information in your profile. Include in your About section a website address that is registered in your name. Make your profile public by default so that people can follow it. Have at least a few hundred followers (~500) before requesting a badge. Pro tip: You can [convert your personal page into a profile](https://www.facebook.com/pages/create/migrate) and turn all your friends into likes. - Get press written about you and coverage on all major media (TV, print, web). [Here’s how.](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) Also here are some [PR bundles](https://alejandrorioja.com/product-category/pr-services/) you might like. ## 2\. Steps and link to request verification Once your profile or page is ready, it’s time to request FB badge verification. 1. Head over to the [official link](https://www.facebook.com/help/contact/342509036134712) to request a blue verification. 2. Select whether you are verifying your Personal Profile or a Page 3. For a page, select the page from the dropdown. For a profile, provide your profile link (i.e. https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro 4. Attach an official government-issued ID (profile) or tax return, documents of incorporation, utility bill (page). 5. In the Additional Information textbox, introduce yourself and write a compelling reason as to why you should be verified. Here you should include your website and **links to relevant press articles** or a Wikipedia page. Don’t make it an essay, keep it short and quick. You can do something like: *I’m Alejandro Rioja, a serial entrepreneur, founder of Flux Ventures. You can read the* [*press I’ve gotten for myself*](https://alejandrorioja.com/press) *and* [*my companies*](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/)*.* 6. Hit Send and wait 2-30 days to hear back from Big Brother Facebook. *Read this:* [*How to get verified on Instagram*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/)*.* ### Another helpful trick to see if you can get verified using Facebook Ads Manager If you tried the above 2 options and couldn’t get verified AND are spending a considerable amount of money on Facebook Ads ($50k/mo+), try reaching out to them via your assigned Ad Account Representative and see if they can submit a verification request on your behalf. ## 3\. FAQ ### Who can get verified on Facebook? Anyone that meets the 4 verification criteria stated by Facebook (authenticity, uniqueness, completeness, and notability). ### What’s the official link to request a verification on Facebook? The link is [here](https://www.facebook.com/help/contact/342509036134712). Good luck! ### What are the benefits of having a blue or grey badge? Is it worth it? - Automatic EGO boost (come on, you feel good when you see it) - Boosts the credibility of your business or your personal brand. Users will know they are interacting with the real page and not an impostor or fake account. - Clients will know that you take your social media game serious, specially if you are an Ad Agency, Coach, or other type of Influencer. - Verified pages will rank higher on Facebook’s Graph Search *and* on Google search results (Read [how to do SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)). To be honest, other than having a shiny badge next to your name, having a verified checkmark is not that exciting or worth it, especially if you are paying for one. I would highly encourage you **not** to buy Facebook verification. *Btw, I do NOT sell any sort of verifications.* ### How long does it take for Facebook to approve/reject a verification request? For a grey badge, it can take anywhere from 48 hours to a week to receive a response from Facebook. For a blue badge, it takes 3-45 days to hear back. Make sure to keep an eye out on [your support inbox](https://www.facebook.com/support). ### Why did Facebook reject my verification? If you got your verification request denied it is most likely due to the following reasons: - You don’t have enough press. -> [Learn how to get featured on Forbes, Techcrunch, etc](http://flux.la/get-featured-forbes-techcrunch-mashable-inc/). - You don’t have a Wikipedia. FYI, to get a Wiki, you first need high quality press. - You didn’t write a compelling enough reason or the ID you provided was blurry or not appropriate. - You don’t have enough native content on Facebook. -> They won’t verify a dead page. - Facebook is being very strict on who they verify and they won’t verify you unless you can prove your popularity. If you got rejected, you can re-apply in 30 days. ### What is the difference between the blue and gray badge? As of October 2019, Facebook [no longers offers grey badges](https://marketingland.com/facebook-removing-gray-verified-badges-from-pages-later-this-month-269168) to business pages. This is because it was confusing to users. “Based on feedback, we’re removing the gray badge and focusing on other ways for businesses to show their authenticity on Facebook,” said a Facebook spokesperson. #### Who got the blue verification check and who got the grey one? ### ![blue and grey badge](/images/posts/inline/8c854423-blue-and-grey-badge.png) The blue checkmark is for [large brands, media companies, or public figures](https://www.facebook.com/help/196050490547892?helpref=faq_content) (like the main @CVS page or @Drake). The grey checkmark is for a particular store location (think Target on 4th street), or smaller businesses (like Mom and Pops Ice Cream). ### How do I request business verification? You can follow the steps outlined [here](https://www.facebook.com/business/help/2058515294227817?id=180505742745347). ### What are the verified badge requisites for law enforcement, city governments, politicians and elected officials? There are some additional requirements for verified Pages for law enforcement agencies, city governments, politicians, and elected officials. **Law enforcement:** - Everyone who manages the Page must turn on [2FA](https://www.facebook.com/help/148233965247823) for their profiles. **City government:** - The Page name must include the word “Government” to avoid confusion with a physical location. **Politician:** - The Page name can include a government title or abbreviation, such as senator, representative, MP, mayor, etc. - The Page name can’t include “for Governor,” “for ,” etc. - The Page category must be “Politician”. **Elected official:** - The Page name must include a government title or abbreviation, such as senator, representative, MP, mayor, etc. - The Page category must be set to Government Official. - The Page’s About section must clearly state that it’s a government Page. ## Bottom line So those are the steps to verify your page or profile on Facebook. The application process has been streamlined but remember that you need significant press to get successfully **verified**. If you got verified, congrats! That is a great step towards beefing up your social media presence.  If you are still not verified, let me tell you, you are not missing much. There are other better ways to interact and prove whatever you want to prove to your audience. I encourage you to read these other posts, which you will certainly enjoy: - ☑️ [Get verified on Instagram for FREE](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/). - [How To Effectively Engage Contributors At Major Publications](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/) - [How to Invite All Your Friends to Like Your Facebook Page](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-facebook-script/) - [How to get a TON of Snapchat followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) - Related: [How does Facebook make money from their users?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - Want to contact Instagram? [Here’s how.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/) Please share this article with your Facebook friends and marketers! Also let me know if you found any issues! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A few things have shifted since this post first went up. **Meta dropped the legacy "Page" verification track in 2024** and folded it into **Meta Verified** ($14.99–$19.99/mo depending on tier and country) — the blue check is now a subscription, not a one-time review. Friend-request flows still work as described, though Meta moved the bulk-cancel UI deeper into mobile settings; the desktop `m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing` route still works (2026-04 spot check). Worth knowing in 2026: ~3.07B Facebook MAU (Meta Q4 2025 earnings), but the share of *time-on-platform* relative to Reels and WhatsApp has continued sliding. If this post is part of an outreach strategy, weight WhatsApp and Threads (yes — Threads survived the 2024 pivot speculation and crossed 200M MAU) accordingly. --- ## Highest CPC Keywords and Best Adsense Niches – 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/ Published: 2022-03-11 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Advertising (SEM), Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Credit $38 CPC ↓ keep reading to find the exact keyword phrases that you should target ↓ Because the companies behind the ads have a high customer value and can afford to spend a few hundred bucks to acquire a customer. ## Table of contents Making money online can be quite hard, especially if you are looking to **monetize your blog solely via ads**. To be a successful Adsense publisher you need a lot of traffic but you also need that traffic to engage with the ads that are being displayed on your site.  The **adsense CPC** that you get paid will depend on the topics that you write about.  In the world of blogging, you can either write articles that will compete for clicks that will pay a few cents or be strategic and write content that will pay the big bucks. If you are serious about making money online with Adsense and [building a successful business](https://www.inc.com/rahul-varshneya/the-shortest-path-to-1-million-in-ecommerce-busin.html), I suggest you target these top paying keywords and industries. Also, I suggest you [try Ezoic to automatically automize your ads](http://ezoic.com?tap_a=6182-5778c2&tap_s=553361-8ff2ca). I broke down this post by: - Top paying Adsense keyword industries - Types of ads that pay the most - Exact long-tail keywords that have insane CPCs - 4 Bonuses to make even more money with Adsense ### Here are the **top 10 highest paid Adsense keywords for 2026 (by industry/niche)**: 1. Insurance $61 CPC 2. Gas/Electricity $58 CPC 3. Loans $50 CPC 4. Mortgage $46 CPC 5. Attorney $48 CPC 6. Lawyer $42 CPC 7. Donate $42 CPC 8. Conference Call $42 CPC 9. Degree $40 CPC 10. Credit $38 CPC ↓ keep reading to find the exact keyword phrases that you should target ↓ ### Why do these Adsense keywords pay so much? Because the companies behind the ads have a high customer value and can afford to spend a few hundred bucks to acquire a customer. It all boils down to their [business economics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). ### So, how can you profit from this data and rake in thousands of dollars each month? Let’s run through a hypothetical example. 1. You notice that insurance related blogs will carry a high CPC. 2. You then research a few keywords and find that “car  insurance companies” pays decently well. 3. You get to writing the best article you can on [car insurance companies](http://theinsurancenerd.com/best-car-insurance-companies/) 4. With an [amazing on-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/), you are able to [get your blog post high on google rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips), 5. You get a good amount of high quality organic traffic to your site, and then monetize into **more Adsense revenue**. ### Which Adsense ads pay the most? In addition to picking the best niche for adsense, you also have options as to which ad type to show. The options are: 1) text & display 2) matched content 3) in-feed and 4) in-article. In my own experiments, I’ve found higher click through rates with **native in-article ads**. Those ads perform the best on [any of my sites](http://youngslacker.com/brands). ![](/images/posts/inline/f3088703-native-in-article-ads-new-google-adsense-1024x347.png) The in-article ads will naturally blend with your content and display midway through your blog post. I like these types of ads because they are contextual and usually receive a good amount of clicks. Sidebar ads are not as good since we are already trained to tune them out.   You can also try **Matched Content** if you have another content you’d like to promote. ### Pro tip: Use Auto Ads by Google Adsense Auto Ads take advantage of machine learning and place themselves automatically on your site where Google thinks they will perform well. Google has been testing the Auto Ads feature as a beta since September of 2017 and recently (early March) released this feature to everyone. Since Google has millions (if not billions) of sites to test, they will most likely be better than you or me when figuring out the right type and placement of the ads. The only downside of this is that you won’t have much control of how many ads are shown or where they are placed, which if you are picky, might annoy you. To set up Auto ads on your site, follow these steps: 1. [Sign in](https://www.google.com/adsense) to your AdSense account. 2. In the left navigation panel, click **My ads**. 3. Click **Auto ads**. 4. On the “Choose your global settings” page, use the controls to select the ad formats that you’d like to show. 5. Leave **Automatically get new formats** selected if you want AdSense to automatically add new ad formats to your global settings as they become available. 6. Click **Save**. 7. On the “Place code on your page” page, click **Copy code**. 8. Paste the ad code between the `` and `` tags of each page where you want to show Auto ads. If you’re not sure how to do this, see Google’s [Code implementation guide](https://support.google.com/adsense/answer/6245307). ### Bonus Keyword Industries/Niches Here are other high paying keywords that you can target in your blog posts 1. Treatment $41 CPC 2. Software $39 CPC 3. Classes $36 CPC 4. Recovery $34 CPC 5. Trading $33 CPC 6. Rehab $33 CPC 7. Hosting $31 CPC 8. Transfer $29 CPC 9. Cord Blood $27 CPC 10. Claim $25 CPC ↓ Don’t forget about the bonuses at the end where I show you how to find the best kws ↓ ### Which exact keywords pay the most CPC on Adsense? SEMrush did a nice study on some of the best keywords by country [here](https://www.semrush.com/blog/top-paying-adsense-keywords-best-adsense-niches-2020/). If you are looking for exact **top paying keywords** such as mesothelioma which pays $1000+ per click, you can check out the list compiled of 1M+ adsense keywords by GrepWords. For instance, they reported the ultimate top paying keyword “mesothelioma survival rates” at $1006.56 per click.  Here are a few of my favorite top paid keywords per industry found through [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/lp/sem/en/?ref=5526970816&refer_source=&utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) (data for the past 5 years): ### Mesothelioma Keywords sorted by CPC Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that lines the lungs, stomach, heart, and other organs, and unfortunately can’t be cured. Nevertheless, treatment can help reduce the pain. People that contracted mesothelioma did so at their jobs so that is why you see searches like “mesothelioma attorneys”, “mesothelioma law firms” and “mesothelioma compensation”. This is a very competitive keyword set so unless you can outrank WebMD and MayoClinic, I suggest you look for other industries.
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)CompetitionResults
compensation mesothelioma1067.96569.670.91594,000
mesothelioma attorney houston3055.72545.840.74109,000
mesothelioma attorney california1055.3390.080.86223,000
mesothelioma compensation11064326.850.84596,000
pleural mesothelioma stages9071.76318.440.93148,000
mesothelioma lawyer directory2063.42290.340.86212,000
mesothelioma lawsuit settlements11061.8276.440.85139,000
statute of limitations on mesothelioma claims9053.98274.070.8264,000
lawyers for mesothelioma4058.43265.920.86537,000
mesothelioma settlement fund4059.3257.120.82262,000
\*Competition of 1 means highly competitive. ### Top Paying Keywords for the Lawyer Niche Being a lawyer must be nice. You get to dress in a suit (which I love) and you also get to afford to spend exorbitant amounts of money for website traffic. Not too shabby.
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)CompetitionResults
car accident lawyer moreno valley9052.02584.441112,000
ft lauderdale car accident lawyer1048.18566.171267,000
auto accident lawyers in chicago9059.03542.9512,280,000
car accident lawyer ny3053.89508.6211,320,000
car accident lawyer in phoenix2055.27504.5301,070,000
california motorcycle accident lawyer3047.51475.7815,410,000
car accident lawyer augusta9044.3463.711416,000
car accident lawyer in fort lauderdale5047.13462.9711,110,000
personal injury lawyer ft lauderdale1043.06429.361860,000
dallas truck accident lawyer9049.674261721,000
### Doctors keywords CPC Adsense In this list you will find a mix of people looking for Physicians and people looking for a PhD program.
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)Com.Results
can you sue a doctor for wrong diagnosis4070.83250.960697,000
doctorate in security7074.61189.19125,000,000
doctor after car accident4060.59136.95129,200,000
doctors car insurance1066.17128.4613,100,000
car accident doctor atlanta7043.8122.421762,000
rehab doctors21059.77118.49022,900,000
business doctoral programs online3073.19118.1911,810,000
best doctoral programs in education3077.26114.31111,000,000
top online doctoral programs in business1071.32112.461995,000
educational leadership doctoral programs online2081.12108.971734,000
### Best Attorney Adsense Keywords I thought attorneys and lawyers were the same. Guess I was wrong. Here are some other keywords pertaining to attorneys:
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)CompetitionResults
personal injury attorney cape coral fl7044.08573.710.79302,000
accident attorney rancho cucamonga9046.05548.48171,000
mesothelioma attorney houston3055.72545.840.74109,000
truck accident attorney san antonio5047.2432.950.85703,000
motorcycle accident attorney orange county3052.34404.050.832,180,000
auto accident attorney colorado springs7051.94396.780.66280,000
accident attorney riverside ca3043.12390.880.51331,000
mesothelioma attorney california1055.3390.080.86223,000
phoenix accident attorneys2054.24358.080.711,500,000
louisville accident attorney2046.44345.620.63674,000
###  Educational keywords | KEYWORD | CPC | | --- | --- | | ONLINE BUSINESS DEGREE PROGRAMS ACCREDITED | $140.00 | | online accredited psychology degree | $135.00 | | online degree in educational psychology | $135.00 | | online business degree florida | $135.00 | | online university college | $125.00 | | online psychology bachelor’s degree | $125.00 | | online college business degree | $125.00 | | fastest criminal justice degree online | $125.00 | | online masters degree in business administration | $125.00 | | parapsychology degree online | $125.00 | | online degree criminal justice | $120.00 | | online school for business degree | $120.00 | | online masters degree programs in healthcare administration | $120.00 | | masters degree in human resources online | $120.00 | | public administration masters degree online | $115.00 | ### Bitcoin CPC Adsense KWs I threw this one in because the [crypto space](http://cryptotim.es) is just so hot right now. These keywords are not the highest paying on my article roundup but I expect their cost per click to rise in the coming years. Aside: I personally just love blockchain and cryptocurrencies. Actually, I love it so much that back at Flux Ventures we launched an entire division just to [buy and sell bitcoin and alt-coins](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/).
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)CompetitionResults
bitcoin merchant account2056.0264.320.87217,000
bitcoin merchant services3062.3533.240.87336,000
bitcoin mining cloud computing1066.0532.650.73604,000
buy bitcoin australia3052.3621.470.32783,000
buy stocks with bitcoin5083.421.080.466,010,000
software mining bitcoin1065.7518.190.62936,000
bitcoin mining gpu7071.5918.190.36696,000
buy stock with bitcoin3081.9417.590.4864,000,000
bitcoin stock chart21073.8616.240.09–
how to invest in bitcoin stock5077.6416.160.711,060,000
### Top Paying Insurance Related Adsense Keywords The insurance companies surely make a killing from those outrageous premiums they charge us. Otherwise how could they afford all those TV commercials and these crazy spend on Adwords? If you are in the insurance blogging space, kudos to you. You’ve picked a winner.
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)CompetitionResults
compare car insurance7078.04469.1215,720,000
auto insurance troy mi1066.48420.290.841,080,000
car insurance comparison quote1077.7342.540.882,400,000
cars with cheapest insurance rates4085316.470.893,200,000
best learner driver insurance1067.65300.260.77830,000
insurance quotes young drivers1076.73299.630.946,490,000
automobile club inter-insurance2084.42299.490.81783,000
car insurance personal injury1082298.540.952,210,000
auto insurance conroe tx4069298.080.82443,000
auto insurance philadelphia pa17063.03293.140.481,330,000
I actually took some of those keywords ^ and launched my site [TheInsuranceNerd](http://theinsurancenerd.com) to attract those high paying clicks. So far, so good. And lastly, how could I forget this… ### Best Digital Marketing/SEO Adsense Keywords If you are a regular reader of [my blog](https://alejandrorioja.com), you are most likely interested in all things online marketing / [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) so this list is for you:
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)Competition
seo explanation1073.3108.420.42
digital marketing degree florida3077.4100.480.96
online courses on digital marketing1073.8892.381
digital marketing certificate programs online2080.7487.560.91
digital marketing course review2067.7285.60.9
internet marketing classes online7074.3683.931
courses on online marketing1072.883.630.73
online marketing education3075.6580.560.91
email marketing wikipedia1079.376.140.71
digital marketing degree course2075.5672.711
digital marketing classes online3073.7870.720.94
seo marketing company9057.5258.440.65
search engine optimization articles2078.1358.320.54
seo companys2059.8954.770.87
types of seo services5044.3453.130.86
seo technology11072.0949.290.75
search optimization companies1061.6148.650.83
seo specialists21074.345.350.61
search engine optimization marketing services1060.444.830.59
seo company3059.6343.010.74
#### Keywords to target if you are in the ‘software for fitness’ niche
KeywordVolumeKDCPC (USD)Com.Results
fitness showrooms stamford ct1076.54138.60.322,000
ea fitness26068.984.160.03116,000,000
fitness barre cranberry3076.4172.410.89371,000
fitness center software1054.4967.10.814,240,000
fitness gym software4050.5463.030.5624,100,000
apogee fitness3069.760.030.16420,000
fit online classes1064.8259.650.39381,000,000
rpac group fitness classes4084.7957.80.1–
fitness management software1052.852.730.5617,100,000
#### Aw man, you still forgot my industry… No worries, you can find all these keywords (and more!) by going into [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/lp/sem/en/?ref=5526970816&refer_source=&utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) and clicking on **Keyword Analytics > Phrase Match (**or **Related Keywords)**, typing the keyword(s) that you want and then **sorting by cost-per-click**.  Here are other ideas to do [keyword hunting](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). Now, onto my favorite part. The bonuses. ## Bonus #1: Target these countries if you want to earn 10x more Aiming for the right countries can really skyrocket your adsense earnings. Here are the top 10 countries to target:
No.CountryAvg. CPC ($)Max. CPC ($)Avg. CTR %Average RPM ($)
1United States (US)0.40 – 2.3>502-32.04
2Canada0.50 – 2>3021.83
3United Kingdom (UK)0.10 – 1.6>191-21.37
4Germany0.40 – 1>111-32.62
5Thailand0.30 – 1621.6
6United Arab Emirates (UAE)0.15 – 3.11142.07
7Japan0.20 – 0.85432.44
8Switzerland0.20 – 1632.35
9Italy0.10 – 0.5031-30.73
10China0.10-0.3041-20.9
If you take a look at this chart, you will notice that most of the countries in this list are first-world countries. How do you target a particular country in your blog? The easiest way is to blog in their native language. To get visitors from Canada, US, UK or australia, your blog must be in English. Similarly, write in German if you are looking for people from Deutschland. You may also [change your targeting settings under Search Console](https://support.google.com/webmasters/answer/62399?hl=en). ## Bonus #2: Unlock even more revenue by blocking low CPC ads As a publisher, you have a good amount of control as to which Ad Categories you want to show on your site. If you are trying to **raise the CPC, RPM or CPM of your Adsense ads**, then I suggest you take a look at your ad performance and start blocking categories that are not paying well. Here’s how you can do that. ![](/images/posts/inline/0036fafa-google-adsense-blocking-controls-1-1024x523.png) 1. Go to [Adsense](https://www.google.com/adsense) and on the left hand column click on **“Blocking Controls > Content> All Sites”** 2. Click on **“General Categories”** 3. Sort by **% Earnings** (Ascending). 4. In there you can take a look at which ads are **taking a good amount of impressions but generating relatively low earnings**. - For instance, let’s say the “Hobbies Games & Leisure” category is taking 4% of impressions yet just making 0.7% of your revenue, you can try and block it, and see if your performance improves. You may also experiment by blocking certain ad networks. I haven’t personally tried this, but some people claim it works. A word of caution: Don’t block too many categories (or ad networks) or else you will significantly reduce the bid competition and will start driving your revenue down. ### Pro tip: Run Optimization Experiments You can always run an **Experiment** (found under Optimization > Experiments) and see if blocking your ads yields more revenue or not. You can also test if showing 50% of your total ads vs. 100% of ads yields more revenue. Google Adsense experiments typically last for 10-30 days, up to 100 days (depending on your experiment and traffic). For instance, I am running the experiment of blocking certain categories, and as you can see below I already started to see some good results (unfortunately Adsense policies prevent me from sharing the exact numbers). ![](/images/posts/inline/2d51452a-google-adsense-experiment-optimization-1024x522.png) ## Bonus #3: Steal your competitor’s lunch (aka. find which keywords are driving the most revenue to them) What if you could view which keywords gets your competition the most clicks and revenue? I’ll show you how I do it. The process is very simple and uses [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/lp/sem/en/?ref=5526970816&refer_source=&utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial). (7 day free trial) All you have to do is: 1. Find any authority site in your niche. (For the sake of example in online marketing, I will use my own site) 2. Type that site on the search bar in SEMRush 3. Scroll to “Top Organic Keywords” and click on “See Full Report” 4. On that report, sort by CPC. 5. Voilá, you have a list of potential keywords that you can now use. 6. Rinse and repeat with other sites that you admire. ![](/images/posts/inline/2838aabf-high-paying-online-marketing-keywords-adsense.png) Once you do this process with 3-5 sites, you will have a good set of keywords that you can target. (By the way, you can hire someone on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/s2/16ee5003e0) or [Freeeup](https://freeeup.com/?a=f0bb0490-6114-41f3-9a93-baedc7e73772) to write quality articles for you so you don’t have to actually spend time doing it.)  ## Bonus #4: Find more high paying keywords using Search Console Did you know that Google already provides you with the keywords that you rank for? What if you could optimize your existing blog posts to target even better keywords? Instead of [spending tons of hours writing a thorough post](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/), you could use update an old one and pick juicier keywords. Here’s how. 1. Install the [Keywords Everywhere](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/keywords-everywhere-keywo/hbapdpeemoojbophdfndmlgdhppljgmp?hl=en) Chrome Extension 2. Head to the [Search Analytics under the Google Webmasters Tools](https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/search-analytics) 3. Choose your website 4. Be sure to check the **Clicks, Impressions, CTR and Position** boxes at the top ![google webmaster adsense keywords](/images/posts/inline/bb502f18-google-webmaster.png) 5. Filter by any specific page that you want keywords to show for: i.e. [https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) 6. Since you installed the Keywords Everywhere tool you will see an additional 3 columns on your list, namely: ****Monthly Volume, CPC and Competition**** ![how to find high cpc keywords](/images/posts/inline/2fb07e38-keywords-everywhere-cpc.png) 7. Unfortunately you can’t sort by CPC so you will have to copy all the data into a spreadsheet and sort it there. I suggest you hit the **Show 500 rows** at the bottom of Webmaster tools. 8. I made a [Google sheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1CbMmPQqF0t0UrNxtQLSf2kVcgkYKcNVc49buALUIlIM/edit?usp=sharing) for you that you can copy (File > Make a Copy..) to sort all your keywords. 9. Copy and paste all your keywords, and then hit the arrow on the column of CPC and **sort from Z->A ** ![top paying keywords adsense](/images/posts/inline/376be670-google-sheets-cpc.png) 10. Voila, you will see all the keywords that your blog post ranks for, all ranked from highest CPC to lowest CPC. ![sorted cpc keywords top paying](/images/posts/inline/10005b2a-sorted-cpc-keywords.png) As you can see this last trick will yield keywords that might not be applicable to your blog post. In my case, “mesothelioma lawyer directory” does not apply to this specific post so I will just ignore it. However, it will also find keywords that I am already getting impressions like “top paying keywords” but for which I am still ranked on page #2. The secret here is now to extend my existing blog post to include that new keyword so that my page gets bumped to page #1. Pro tip: You can also sort by Volume or competition to find other hidden gems. (Remember that now with the new [RankBrain algorithm](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) you shouldn’t target each specific long tail keyword but rather [target medium-tail keywords that cover a broader topic](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/).) *Related: Remember you can also show ads on Youtube (here’s a fun [guide to Youtube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/)).*  ### so, how can you make $100 a day with Adsense? I don’t know about you, but 100 bucks a day on ads sounds like a good passive income to me ($3k/mo). Let’s run some calculations to see what it would take to make $100/day on Adsense. First, some assumptions. - You are targeting US readers (as we saw earlier, US ads pay the most on average) - Your CTR (click-through rate) is 1% (i.e. 1% of visitors click on ads) - Your CPC is $0.50 (your niche is strong but your site is just getting started) - Your RPM (revenue per 1000 impressions) is $2 *? Btw, you can increase your earnings using [Ezoic](http://ezoic.com/?tap_a=6182-5778c2&tap_s=553361-8ff2ca). (an ad tester platform)* With these numbers we can now calculate how many visitors we need to earn our target amount. The formula is = **Visitors \* CTR \* CPC + Visitors/1000 \* RPM**  So with 15,000 visitors per day we obtain around $100/day on Adsense. (15,000 \* 1% \* $0.5 + 15,000/1000\*$2 = **$105/day**) But how do you obtain 15,000 page views per day? Is that reasonable? Yes, it is reasonable. To do that, you can either - produce 15 articles that get 1000 page views (hard) - produce 150 articles that get 100 page views (much easier) Learn [how to write articles that will attract a lot of visitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/). Want learn how to get more organic visitors? [Check this out!](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/) ## Tips for Youtube CPC In case you were wondering the same steps apply if you are looking to grow your earnings on Youtube. The same industries, languages and countries discussed above will also do well on YT. To further optimize your Youtube earnings, you should also include a thorough description of your video that includes the high paying keywords you are targeting. Here are more [Youtube SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/). ### Bottom line I hope you found this list of high cost-per-click keywords useful. I also hope you liked the strategy to [find keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) that your competitors are getting money from. If you want additional tools to find keywords, head to my [SEO tools list](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/).  Building a high grossing blog is a combination of [picking a solid niche](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7), [doing SEO on your articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) and having fun while at it. If you enjoyed this post, please leave a comment and share this article with a friend. I put a lot of work into it so I’d appreciate it if you [tweet it out](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=The+Highest+Paying+Adsense+Keywords+and+Industries+in+2018+%28%24584%2B+CPC%21%29&url=https%3A%2F%2Falejandrorioja.com%2Fblog%2Fhigh-cpc-adsense-keywords%2F&via=riojaalejandro). Also let me know what you want me to write about next! If you want you can hit me up on Snapchat @[youngslacker](http://snapchat.com/add/youngslacker) or [Instagram: @youngslacker](https://www.instagram.com/youngslacker/).  Read also: 1. [My KILLER on-page SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) 2. [How to get to #1 on Google and why you haven’t yet](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)  3. [Who is Alejandro Rioja?](https://alejandrorioja.com) 4. [What the heck is RankBrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) and why haven’t I heard about it before? At this point, aren’t you wondering how I got the first result on Google for this blog post? [Read here to find out how](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 Google's 2026 story is **AI Overviews everywhere**: the SGE experiment from 2023 graduated to a default feature in May 2024 and now appears on an estimated **~60% of US informational queries**. For SEO and ad operators: - **Organic CTR on queries with AI Overviews has dropped 15–30%** on average per published studies from Ahrefs, Authoritas, and similar (2024–25 data). - **Google Ads** rebranded several PMax features as **AI-powered Search**; the campaign management UI now defaults to AI bidding suggestions. - **Search Console** added an "AI Overview impressions" filter in late 2025 — if a post here references GSC reporting, the playbook needs a refresh. - **Google's ad revenue** crossed ~$265B in 2024; Search remains ~57% of total Alphabet revenue. The "how Google makes money" answer in 2026: still Search ads (dominant), but YouTube ads, Cloud, and Subscriptions (YouTube Premium + Google One) are all material lines now. --- ## What Is Land And Expand Strategy? A Mini Guide 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/land-and-expand/ Published: 2022-03-11 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO, Amazon SEO, ecommerce mobile app development, SEO Guide, SEO tools ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The land and expand strategy means to start small before going into other work areas. Being direct and aggressive with potential clients may turn them off from you. Instead, obtaining a smaller transaction will enable you to work with your customer as a valued partner. Build an opportunity chart for all your clients and look for ways to become a trusted partner. This strategy is also applicable to SEO, especially on keywords. If a site ranks well, it is worth keeping the page updated with new content and expanding on the page’s topic. No one ever said that running a business was easy, but with the right strategies in place, it can be a lot more manageable. If you’re looking for an effective way to grow your company, you may want to consider using the land and expand strategy.  It’s basically when a company tries to gain a foothold in a new market by acquiring or partnering with a smaller company in that market. The hope is that by doing so, they’ll be able to quickly gain market share and become a leader in the space. There are a few reasons why this strategy can be successful. For one, it allows the company to enter a new market without having to go through all the hassle and expense of setting up its own operations there. Additionally, it gives them a chance to learn about the market and build up their customer base before making a major investment. So how can you use this technique in your company? Let me share with you today what I know about the land and expand strategy and how it can help you grow your company. ## What is “Land and Expand?” ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lgQiv02ATQXIpUexEGXf4wtdjsGkEomZptqq2pchRtUC6U3lSCuh1SPZv-roomfs9o4ipCB0CnaaGaOFNtTQ5JDkZZOAAvNo0sPvWcmANWEUtr_iqLJYzhVP9N4PHUf9yR7ipcjm) Land and expand, in pretty simple terms, mean starting small before expanding into other areas.  Take the example above. If you propose to an utter stranger, they certainly will be turned off by it.  Being too forward, too fast with your potential clients will turn them off from you and your business, and you will lose a chance at the deal. What’s worse, [you may lose any other opportunity in the future](https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshlinkner/2014/11/20/sell-more-with-a-land-and-expand-strategy/#777ab77c51a6).  A much more practical and attractive approach is to close a smaller deal.  Landing a single, smaller, and the more targeted deal will let you work alongside your client as a trusted partner and service provider.  Also read: [How you can land build a profitable business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) ## Land and Expand As A Business Tactic ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/P4smEIn02lnz64ZUZvidik6Abg8R13tHQciRayPKwJ3IAlhEITEr3JtEjJYE5-7M9EFcPZ5OYN1QXzR7xBnTn9zIzes9JQ2Mgya6e3XxRdQ5f53vJw8G0HNKV46jXAVMO9iOPe9I) The land and expand strategy works on the notion that your current customers are also your best sources of revenue, and that [upselling and cross-selling engagements will exist](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2018/12/19/grow-your-company-with-a-land-and-expand-strategy/#2e38676637ce) when you know your customers well, and when they trust you.  It starts when a representative or agent lands a simple deal with an organization. A healthy relationship is formed between the seller and the client, founded on trust through the provision of exemplary services.  The seller then continues to provide services into the organization, earning more significant deals and projects across different departments.  To implement this, these are some broad steps.  1. Land a relatively small deal with a client.  2. Provide services to it, to deepen relationships and trust. 3. Expand by conquering opportunities within the same organization.  The land and expand strategy is a business tactic and not a sales tactic. You do this to further your business as a whole and not only your sales.  Here are some pointers on the application of the “land and expand strategy” in your business offerings.  ### Deliver Exceptional Service to Target Key Customers  Providing quality services from the beginning is a sure way to generate rave reviews and references. If you did an excellent job with your first assignment, they would trust you as a service provider for future projects, and they will feel comfortable tapping you for references for new accounts in new areas.  Executives in key customer demographics likely swim in the same waters, especially if within the same vertical. They know each other through previous conferences and events, and what’s more, is that they are trusted colleagues to each other.  Use this webbing network effect to your advantage.  ### Build an “Opportunity Chart” An “Opportunity Chart” is a tool that outlines all potential buyers within the client and their areas of interest. Putting this map together lets you identify the areas you have deemed as advantageous to pursue, and will be much easier to finish after “landing the deal” with the client.  Naturally, when you help your direct contact with their needs, then you will also be acquainted with the other divisions of the organization and will be able to learn various things, such as the markets they handle and how you can help with their purpose.  Write them all down, mix and match a category with a point of contact, and plot out a plan of action to interact with each area.  ### You Want Customers for Life You should almost always be thinking ahead to your next project with a customer. Look for ways to provide value to your client so that you would become a trusted partner.  When you continually provide adequate and quality service to your client, then they would not look for any other provider. Admittedly, however, this is not easy.  Maintaining customers for life takes dedication, hard work, and patience. Set up measures to build a productive and lasting business relationship.  However, companies encounter obstacles in the implementation of this strategy. Here are some common misconceptions of some companies regarding landing and expanding.  1. Some providers treat “land and expand” as a mere sales strategy, implementing an aggressive cross- and up-sell quotas. In reality, it is much more than that, and sales are only a puzzle piece some clients don’t value highly as much as other facets.  2. Some are more preoccupied with chasing new organizations instead of cultivating relationships with existing ones, driven by fears of losing out to competing vendors.  3. Some fail to turn the first project implementation into a “radiating” case, that is, they merely stop there.  4. In connection with the above, they also fail to foster relationships with another department, division, or region.   To avoid these, it is of utmost importance to acknowledge that customer success is above your sales success. Land and expand is a customer-oriented model, so put the needs of your customers first and foremost.  ## Land, Then Expand, Keywords  The land and expand strategy is not only a business-specific tactic but can also be applied to SEO, especially on keywords..  Another idea that is becoming prevalent in the [SEO space](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/) is the concept of topics.  Nowadays, Google is becoming smarter in understanding an article’s topic and how the many different keywords in it cross over. Many search users are trying to search for the topic rather than using a keyword, which is what happened in the past.  However, it does not mean that SEO professionals should ignore the value of keywords within the articles.  If your site contains an article that ranks very well in the SERPs for something that has a number of keywords, then there is an opportunity to get those rankings higher, maybe even bring them to the top for the topic of that article. That is “land.”   You can then use a tool to dig underneath the data and take a look at the keywords the article is ranking for and look for opportunities to add them to existing ones or build new articles around them altogether. That is, “expand.”  ### Expand a Page If a site already ranks well and high on the Google SERP, it will be worth it to keep the page updated with more information and to expand upon the subject of the page with related topics. Adding more value and developing that content will improve the page ranking, and subsequently, your site, too.  Here are the steps to achieve that.  1. Go to Google Search Console and check out the pages of your site through the “Site Profile.”  2. The metrics will show what pages and topics are doing well. Pick one which you think could turn even better based on the click-through-rates and site impressions.  3. See where the traffic for that topic is coming from by clicking on it. Add the position tab to find queries ranking from around 5 to 15, as they are good places to build and expand upon.  4. Go to the page on your site and start your content management software.   5. Search for the keywords on your content page. Ctrl+F works wonders.  6. Open a new tab and Google some keyword terms you found on your page to know who ranks at the top of your niche. Use their site and content as a guide or inspiration to improve your own.  Do not expect to rank top for all of these terms and words. What is important is that you are making efforts to improve your presence continually.  Once that is done, you can take your efforts up a notch. Using an [SEO tool](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) like Ahrefs or UberSuggest, find keywords and long-tail variations you can consider using.  Using Ahrefs, you can look at how an article fares and see if there are opportunities you can use to expand. A master list of keywords will show what keywords the site is relevant for without any optimization.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/FyAf8PbxI8Z14qPTy9ggbACI8RAvc_p5GapJsO26MpXTKecfRKpDuX6wj09M5RqfGFvl0W-iU7d1-nwHJa6yy5WuBFZ_5zSk78Os9Z-70lTULJVG4BYI2Sz8HJqJv1dnhKlKiRgS) The 25-50 positions mean that the keywords are still relevant, though they would not rank well for the article anytime soon. Building a piece crafted and targeted around those keywords can turn out pretty decently.  ### Expand The Other Pages There will be times that you have exhausted your subject, and the article has accumulated so much depth and complexity that it does not make any sense to expand it further anymore. There are still sub-topics you can generate content around.  1. Entering Google Search Console will let you see a list of keywords terms that are related to the initial topic.  2. See the terms that get the most searches but are quite low on the ranking, as those subjects can offer you chances to improve the ranking of your site.  3. Find similar terms in which your next group of content will be built around.  If you are on the fence whether or not the words are relevant enough or not, then head on over to Google Correlate. The tool gives insights and impressions into what topics are searched for after a particular phrase.   ## Why Use Land and Expand? The land and expand strategy fosters trust between client and provider, and trust is an essential ingredient in any business venture.  Second, it is easier to upsell an existing client than it is to foster relations with a new one. And frequently, the hassle encountered with gathering the attention and servicing a new client is not worth the benefit to be received.  When you land and expand, you do not need to worry that much about competition or lengthy sales cycles. If your client buys something from you and derives value, then they are most probably not leaving.  Land and expand is an effective and scalable business strategy that puts the needs of the customers in the center. It can be quite lengthy to implement, seeing as trust is not built in a day, but a successfully implemented land and expand tactic will surely pay its dividends in the long run.  A clear pathway with the end goal of a healthy, long-term relationship with your customer client paves the road for a successful business journey with your business partner.  However, landing and expanding is not only applicable to business. As highlighted above, SEO also benefits from this approach.  The key is in finding keywords that have the potential to be built upon and creating content that delivers value to the users. There are a whole host of SEO related tools for your convenience in achieving this, Google Search Console being the most prominent.   Expanding a page may not be enough; sometimes you have to branch out to other pages and subtopics to make the most of your strategy. Related keywords can serve as a great starting point for another set of articles aiming to deliver value.  And there you have it! That is how you land and expand and how it applies to SEO keyword searches. After reading this article, I hope that you are more or less acquainted with the land and expand strategy, and how you can apply it to your website.  Check out these topics to know more about SEO. - [How to Do Keyword Research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) - [How To SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [White Hat SEO Techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) Drop a comment below to tell me what to cover next! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The fundamentals in this post still hold — Ansoff, BCG, integrated marketing, land-and-expand, NYOP, TOMA frameworks are durable. What changed since the original publication is **how the implementation surface looks in 2026**: - The **distribution channels** assumed in 2020-era marketing posts (organic Facebook reach, free Twitter virality, paid Instagram CPMs under $10) are gone or transformed. Re-cost any tactical recommendation against today's CPMs. - **AI Overviews** ate the top of the SEO funnel — TOFU content strategy from the 2022 era now needs a GEO layer (see the [SEO updated note](#updated-for-may-2026)). - **Land-and-expand** as a motion is healthier than ever in B2B SaaS; PLG → enterprise progression is the default path for almost any 2026 startup. - **Integrated marketing communication** in 2026 means the *brand voice* shows up the same across paid, organic, AI-cited, podcast guesting, and the newsletter — because models like GPT-5 and Claude 4.7 are increasingly summarizing the *brand*, not just individual pages. If you're using this framework for a 2026 plan, the strategic skeleton is right; only the channel-mix data points need a fresh source. --- ## Shopify Vs. Etsy: Ultimate Comparison Guide 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/ Published: 2022-03-11 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: This workforce can bring in $155 billion in total sales too. Meanwhile, this American-based company was founded by Rob Kalin, Haim Schoppik, and Chris Maguire in 2005. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* While I was learning [how to start my business from the ground up](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/), one of the many ways I learned to make use of the internet is e-commerce businesses. These are businesses that put up a virtual shop using a website to sell goods, services, or both. My suggestion for you if you want to start investing in this form of business is to think about which platform to host it. In this article, I will compare two of the most popular websites used for e-commerce: [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify) and [Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/sell?ref=ftr). After giving you a brief background of each platform, I will then compare them against nine criteria: expertise, experience, scalability, SEO-friendliness, mobile-friendliness, security, support, plans, and pricing. Before that, do watch this video to refresh yourself as to how to start your online business: ## Shopify at a glance ![](/images/posts/inline/a2f56153-screenshot-www.shopify.com-2020.06.11-19_49_33.png) Etsy was a software platform that the company’s founder Tobi Lütke made for his first store in 2004, he eventually released it two years later that it would be a more valuable product to offer in the market. As of now, the Canadian company has more than 5,000 employees working around the clock to support more than a million merchant partners in around 175 countries. This workforce can bring in $155 billion in total sales too. ## Etsy at a glance ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mCuE01AXefJ_9UPSOZSnmfcBOnX5erC0MGeidbhsYoHwEGkQFsEd-8BuTLHSB01zEPQBwQlMsWilVfxbbx-HJRDlZRptz3jNLZaSpqfmaw1lanU2w4zHB6DCXMAzS75c48YO1eRs) Meanwhile, this American-based company was founded by Rob Kalin, Haim Schoppik, and Chris Maguire in 2005. The trio thought about providing businesses access to a global internet marketplace where they can sell their wares. Since that time, they were able to support at least 2.7 million active sellers and create a list of around 66 million items for its 46 million active buyers to purchase. They were able to become one of the largest internet marketplaces to date as they focused on three things as a service provider. These items include being best-in-class search and discovery, human connections, trusted brand, and collection of unique items. ## Reasons why you should build an e-commerce business Before I compare both e-commerce platforms, I would like to share my ideas as to why you should make this type of business from now until the unforeseeable future. If you must know, starting an e-commerce business  does not require huge set up costs.. As a result, neither will you  need a substantial starting capital nor will your business  take a lot of time to build. With that in mind, the following are valid reasons as to why you should do your business online: ### Gain independence The first advantage of [opening an e-commerce business](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) is the amount of control you can wield to keep improving every aspect of your venture. From how you want to advertise to taking orders, you would learn more about these aspects in maintaining and nurturing your investment.  Aside from that, you can also control two things when opening up your own online business this way. First, you can dictate how much time you spend per day on your business. The other thing has something to do with the amount of work you want to do within that time. ### Work with your passion As I have explained that [opening an online business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-a-freelancer/) is all up to you, this means you can choose to sell a product or service that you are passionate about. For example, I expanded my own business so that I can post my songs while writing blogs about strategies I’ve developed to get more visitors to my website. From there, I have written various topics from what your mindset should be as an entrepreneur to why you should think about insurance if you’re in danger of forest fires. ### Stabilize your position money-wise [Business Know-How](https://www.businessknowhow.com/money/earn.htm) did a survey last year, and they found out that of all their respondents, 66% of them were able to make at least $100,000 annually. If I learned about this last year and I hadn’t opened a business yet, I would start making one as soon as possible. Aside from that, setting up an online business at home can help you gain tax deductions for several things such as your mortgage payment and furniture. This can be arranged by talking with an IRS agent. As a result, this will help you have extra money for emergencies. ## Shopify vs. Etsy Now that we know why you should start an online business alongside the backgrounds of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and Etsy, let us dive into what makes each platform stand out. ### Expertise and experience What [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is known for is that it offers itself as an all-in-one e-commerce platform for those who want to start their online selling business. For a paid monthly subscription, you are given access to a website, blog, and shop. If your business is gaining traction and you have a stable customer base, opening a [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) account and subscription is a great next step. This e-commerce platform can help you explore more of your product lines and increase your customer base while adjusting to these changes. Meanwhile, Etsy is known for an online marketplace that is provided by those who sign up onto their platform to sell homemade, vintage, and craft products. If you want to start a business within those three categories towards a broad audience, you can pay them a monthly fee. ### Scalability If you invest in any of their subscriptions, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) can help you get a domain name that includes a website, blog, and shop. If you want to attract your business through your website and blog, you can do so as you can choose from over 70 templates or make your own in their module. Speaking of shopping, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) gives you the freedom to make a customized order form and let them be able to pay through credit or debit card. Aside from that, you can use their [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Payments service and gain access to more than a hundred third-party processors too. If you are planning to open a physical store in the future after opening your business with [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), you can make use of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS to keep track of all payments, especially during face-to-face transactions. Shopify can also allow you to integrate various applications to make your website, blog, or shop more interactive. This benefit also includes connecting your business’ social media pages too. On Etsy, once you sign in as a seller on their platform, you can add items that you are selling to the millions of items present in their marketplace. You get your domain like in Shopify too. However, if you want to sell on Etsy with your blog and website, you need to pay more. Over time this can add up, and if Etsy turns out to be too expensive for you, you should [check out other similar platforms](https://mydukaan.io/blog/etsy-alternatives/). It also has support to manage discounts and abandoned carts. Unlike [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), however, you can only make small changes like featuring products and changing logos. Aside from that, if you paid more for your Etsy Pattern subscription, you can only choose among ten more templates for your website compared to [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) over 70 templates right off the bat. Under integrations, you can connect your social media pages and link with other third-party payment applications. However, Etsy Patterns only offers you a limited amount compared to [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/).  You can also integrate your Etsy store with their in-house payment service. Etsy Payments lets customers pay through credit, debit, PayPal, gift cards, bank transfers, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. ### SEO-friendliness As I have mentioned in the previous section, you can fully customize what you put on your website, blog, and shop when you sign up for a [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) seller account. With that in mind, you can modify content as much as you can to get a [higher SEO rank in search results](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/). If you want to offer your online business in different languages, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) allows you to do so. You can access this through their in-built editor while you are logged into their website. Doing this will help increase your customer reach across the internet. On Etsy, you can at least change the content of your shop, product listings, and blog. If an international customer visits your page in their country, the e-commerce site will automatically translate your page’s content for them to understand. The auto-translate is good, but you may have to work around this to create unique content for your English and non-English speaking customers. This strategy will also help you rank high in search results at the same time. Both e-commerce platforms offer integrations with other applications and tags in order to increase your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) or Etsy store in search results. ### Mobile-friendliness As smartphone use is increasing year after year, it is best to [optimize your e-commerce shop](https://flux.la/improving-ecommerce-user-experience-through-web-design/) to be as accessible on mobile as it is on PC. With that in mind, let us explore how [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and Etsy handle customers browsing your store on mobile. For [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), you are given control of how you can customize your website. With that, you can make use of their catalog of themes to apply to your website, blog, and shop right away. They are all mobile responsive, which makes it accessible on any mobile device. Since you are restricted from using Etsy’s base theme once you sign up for them as a seller, anyone can access your store using a mobile device. Even if you are restricted, Etsy’s  mobile-ready service helps you gain access to customers on mobile. For their Pattern by Etsy service, Etsy’s website provider, all of the themes that can be accessed through their editor are mobile-friendly. This service is an advantage even if you are limited to how much you can make your website unique on their platform. ### Security Both e-commerce platforms offer protection for sellers like you and your future customers at the same time. First, both platforms save information such as product information and payment details in their respective cloud-based platforms. This means that you can retrieve and store data on either platform with ease. Getting a [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) account as a merchant will also give you access to a free 128-bit shared SSL certificate. This feature allows your website, shop, and blog to be accessed securely by you and your customers. Etsy, on the other hand, ensures that all transactions are done on their SSL-encrypted platform. Aside from that, they have particular contingencies such as security specialists and fraud detection systems running around the clock. ### Support Whether you want to start a [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) account or not, you can browse through their Help Pages to learn more about the platform. Aside from that, you can take lessons from E-Commerce University. It contains articles, how-to-guides, and other resources to use their service wisely. Anytime during your subscription, you can also contact their support team if any other issue pops-up, such as canceling your subscription or settling payments in a transaction. They also have a 24/7 live chat feature that can help you resolve any problem you encountered during the day. ## Plans and pricing In this section, I will be discussing all the available plans that you can buy if you want to sell on [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and Etsy. Before subscribing to any of [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) premiums, you can opt to try out their system for 90 days. This will help you gauge whether you can navigate around its modules. ### Basic Shopify For $29 per month, you can get the following: 1. Your own [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) website 2. Your own [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) blog 3. Your own [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) store 4. Post as many products for sale on your account 5. Share any of your products on [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) through other marketplaces and social media sites 6. Manual order creation 7. Manage discount codes 8. Recover abandoned carts 9. Create up to two staff accounts who can access this account 10. Get up to 64% shipping discount for every customer order 11. Create shipping labels 12. Online credit card purchases get a rate of 2.9% plus 30 cents 13. In-person transactions are charged 2.7% 14. Purchases done using any other provider is charged 2% 15. Access to [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS 16. Integrate with third-party POS applications ### Shopify This plan includes all the benefits of the basic [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) plan. In addition to that, you can get the following for $79 a month: 1. View reports such as the number of daily transactions to the number of regular visitors 2. Add up to 5 staff accounts 3. Your shipping discount is set up to 72% from 64% 4. Avail of USPS Priority Mail Cubic prices 5. Reduced online credit card purchase cost to 2.6% 6. Reduced in-person purchases cost to 2.5% 7. Reduced cost for paying using other providers to 1% 8. Manage shifts for [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS 9. Create multiple POS pins 10. Add up to 5 store locations 11. Gain access to hardware support ### Advanced Shopify This is the plan with the most benefits [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) can provide to its sellers. It costs $299 monthly, and it includes all the benefits the other two paid plans have to offer. Aside from those, it includes the following benefits unique to this plan: 1. Compare shipping prices through third-party applications 2. Add up to 15 staff accounts 3. Shipping discounts can reach up to 74% 4. Any online credit card purchase will be charged a rate of 2.4% per transaction 5. Any other payment methods will be charged a rate of 0.5% 6. Add up to 8 store locations ### Shopify Plus This plan is available to potential businesses that are either medium-sized or large-sized that deal with multiple transactions. Unlike the first three paid plans, availing of this plan would depend on your business performance and information. If you wish to avail of this account, it will come with the following: 1. Access to [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) applications suited for high-growth merchants selling for businesses 2. Create a customized checkout system 3. Improved API integration 4. Membership to their Merchant Success Program 5. Partner with one of [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Launch Engineers, an assistant to your online business who can suggest integrations with applications, designers, and developers 6. Add up to any number of staff accounts 7. Add up to nine expansion stores 8. Gain access to beta programs to learn more about your customers to manage your future business plans 9. Membership to [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus Partner Program 10. Educate yourself at the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus Academy 11. Membership to Shopify’s Facebook Group called [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus Community 12. Gain access to up to 100 themes 13. Keep seasonal versions of your current theme 14. Test any number of changes to your theme 15. Manage which staff account can export reports or make use of integrated applications 16. Create a wholesale store with its channel and protect it with a password ### Shopify Lite If you want to partner with [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) but you think that you can’t pay for any of the previous premiums, you can opt to pay $9 a month to gain access to the following: 1. Create a [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) store 2. Integrate your Facebook business page to [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) 3. Get Messenger chat support to obtain a channel to keep track of customer orders 4. Add a “Buy Button” to link your shop to any other website 5. Gain access to the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS app for credit card transactions 6. Manage your customer invoices With [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Lite, you can still ask for support from one of their representatives if you need help with your orders, products, and inventory.  Meanwhile, Etsy allows you to create an account as a seller for free on their website. What they will charge you for is listings, advertising, transactions, and payment processing. Every time you list an item on their platform, the e-commerce website charges you 0.20 USD. This price remains whether or not someone bought it through your store. This is also charged to you if you [bring back an old listing](https://help.etsy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360035902374-Beginner-s-Guide-to-Etsy-Fees?segment=selling#h_4db30fc0-377b-41ac-ac30-74ee90296994), sell [different variants](https://help.etsy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360035902374-Beginner-s-Guide-to-Etsy-Fees?segment=selling#h_a67f1991-1a8a-4e5f-8770-7844b06f7fe1) of it, or [transact privately](https://help.etsy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360035902374-Beginner-s-Guide-to-Etsy-Fees?segment=selling#h_5e7b4dbb-14d8-484f-97f3-9499eaf12950) to a buyer. If you signed up for their Pattern by Etsy service, do take note that you will be charged for [offsite ads](https://help.etsy.com/hc/articles/360000338367?segment=selling) and [Etsy Ads](https://help.etsy.com/hc/articles/360033701174?segment=selling) depending on how you are as a seller. Offsite ads are charged between 12% to 15% depending on how much you have earned annually. When a customer buys an item from your listing, Etsy gets 5% from its total item cost in your local currency. To ship it, they also get 5% of the [total shipping charges](https://help.etsy.com/hc/articles/360002078048?segment=selling).   Finally, their [payment processing fees](https://help.etsy.com/hc/articles/115015628847?segment=selling) are taken from the item’s total sale price, including shipping fees, and its corresponding sales tax. This will only apply if a customer paid through Etsy Payments. ## Bottom line I have shown you that it is possible to start an online business in this article. Aside from that, I have introduced you to two of the most popular e-commerce platforms where you can begin your journey from. Do take note that each platform has its strengths and weaknesses. Using the right one, depending on your business strategy and growth, will help you go a long way. Did this article help you plan out your way to a successful online business? Read the following articles to help you with the rest of the way: - [Using SEMRush for your competitor research](https://alejandrorioja.com/competitor-research-semrush/) - [Shopify or Amazon? Which one is right for your business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) - [Growth hacking stories you need to know for your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/)  Want me to cover another e-commerce platform that has not been reviewed yet? Comment below which one I should write about next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 5 Features That Make WordPress Great 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/ Published: 2022-03-11 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: WordPress is an often-heard word nowadays. Throughout the time it has gained immense popularity. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. WordPress is an often-heard word nowadays. Throughout the time it has gained immense popularity. Over the years, WordPress has [grown from a blogging website to a powerful CMS](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/) that powers all of the great websites. Millions of websites all over the Internet are built on WordPress. Wherever you go, you can find someone who owns a website on WordPress. Maybe up till now, you did not dare to start your website for this or that reason, but now as we have embarked upon a new decade you can try some new things and take your business to a new level or in this case, start a WordPress site. Whenever we hear it, we associate it with the globally popular world of blogging. However, there is more to it. As I mentioned before, WordPress is a Content Management System (CMS), which means that WordPress is a platform you can use to build a website without any coding knowledge. That is an amazing opportunity for those who are not equipped with tech knowledge. It still allows you to create a website for personal, or professional use, whichever way you find it appropriate to your needs. It can be a blog or a business website, there is also a possibility to [make an e-commerce website](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/), where your customers will get the chance to purchase the items you are selling. WordPress gives you the chance to design your website to the smallest details. Everything you have ever dreamt of can be achieved via WordPress. If you feel the need to improve your business, to increase the growing ability of your business and want to create a website and to make sure that you will reach a broad audience of people who have the same interest as you do, the best way to start is by creating a WordPress website. One of the greatest things about WordPress, the fact that it is affordable for anyone who wants to try their luck and build a website. [Seldom a beginner starts with a big budget](https://alejandrorioja.com/100-bucks-facebook-ad-budget/). That comes later. For starters, you need to earn money so you could invest it in the future growth of your business. One of the first ways for you to start is by choosing a web hosting company. The web hosting company is there to make sure that the data of your website is stored on their server. You can choose from a variety of hosting plans the one which suits your needs the best or in this case the plan which goes best with the idea of how you imagined your site to look.  Each of the plans comes with a monthly fee that you are supposed to pay. However, there is a way for a beginner to save money by choosing a free hosting provider.  The free hosting provider can help you start your business and start earning money for your future investments. It provides the same services as those companies that would bill you monthly or annually, but here it is free. Because it is never a bad thing to know more. Not only is WordPress free but it is open-source, which further means that you can make any changes you want to the code of the site. You can use it for many sites as you want without having to purchase additional licenses. The fact is that WordPress is the most popular CMS platform, the fact that more than 50% of websites that use CMS are built on WordPress. That means that WordPress powers more sites than any other platform of the entire Internet, which is very impressive. Statistics have shown that every second of every day there are 17 blog posts published on WordPress. Not only blogs of the influencers but the great media brands such as CNN, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes are built on WordPress. That proves that the popularity of WordPress is equal to its quality. Behind the WordPress stands a team of people whose passion for what they do has changed the face of the Internet and made our lives easier. If you want to find more about the benefits of teamwork, [take a good look at this post on Dzone.](https://dzone.com/articles/are-you-a-team-player) The teamwork of people at WordPress is the reason for its success. WordPress has gained its popularity because of its quality that has remained constant to this day. Furthermore, the reason for WordPress’s popularity and its legion of users is not only its quality but features of WordPress that make it so great ## 1\. Simple to use ![Image result for wordpress gutenberg](https://aspengrovestudios.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/WordPress-Gutenberg-Editor.jpg) First thing first, it is important to emphasize the simplicity with which you can use WordPress. It is easy for you to get online and start publishing your content. In no time you can get your website up and your content is available for people to see it and enjoy it. WordPress is there to make your dreams come true with a few simple steps. You can create original posts, format them as you see fit, insert appropriate photos and videos, and just one click publish it. ## 2\. Versatile ![Image result for wordpress themes](https://themezee.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/all-themes.png) WordPress can be used for the creation of any type of website you may need or want. So that can be a personal blog or a personal website, a professional portfolio, a photoblog, you can create an online community or even a network of websites. Finally, with WordPress, you have a chance of building your application. You can buy a theme on [Envato](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/envato-elements/ "envato elements") Elements. ## 3\. Magical Plugins The fact that WordPress is free is amazing. The fact that it has a ton of great plugins that can help customize your website, the exact way you pictured to be is even better. If you wonder what a plugin is, bear with me. A plugin is a piece of software that contains a function that you can add to your website. It can increase its functionality or add some awesome features to your website. These plugins can improve your photos, your text, and videos. It can make your site look great for your visitors. One of the good things about WordPress is that you have different plugins for SEO optimization. Even if your WordPress site is SEO optimized, you can fine-tune it with some other SEO plugin that will manage to keep your website high in the Google search engine. If you want to gather more information about the benefits of SEO for your website, [read my post on it](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). That is one of the ‘musts’ in owning a website. You need to make sure that it stays on the top, so that when people want to read it again it will be easy to access your website. If you wonder what other plugins are good for you, [here you can see the list of the greatest ones](https://www.forbes.com/sites/steveolenski/2016/05/03/10-most-important-wordpress-plugins/#46a3aaa69735). There are almost 40,000 plugins on WordPress. That number only can make your head spin around. ## 4\. Community of people WordPress has been around for almost twenty years. That means that for all that time the community of people using has grown. Millions of people are using WordPress for different purposes, making different websites, enjoying different types of experiences. If there ever comes the time when you find yourself needing some help, you can get all the help you might need online, whether those are the people who had been using long before you or documents with necessary tutorials you can find. So, every problem you might encounter has probably been solved by someone else. You can also discover people with the same interest as yours and create a new community, where you can discuss different topics. ## 5\. Fully Customizable Platform With WordPress, you are free to use it any way you like, you can modify it, install it, distribute it or simply use it. General Public Licence is created to protect your freedom and WordPress is licensed under the General Public Licence. The foundation upon which WordPress is built is software freedom. That is one of the many reasons for its popularity, the freedom that is given to their users, to create the website as they find it most suitable. Plus, WordPress is available in more than 70 languages, so you can build your website in your native language. WordPress offers you endless possibilities. ## Bottom line Do not hesitate with your decision to start a WordPress website. So many people have tried it before you and few of them regret it. [I certainly don’t](https://alejandrorioja.com/about). There are so many amazing features of WordPress that are making it so popular among users. You can build a WordPress website in your native language, design it as you like, using one of the themes (there a thousand options for you), you can post your content in no time. Just one click and the world can see your creativity and everything that you want to share with your audience. Don’t take too much time in deciding whether you have it what it takes to run a website. Of course, you do, as many people before you have tried it and run famous and successful websites with a legion of followers. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## The Best E-Commerce Platforms in 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/ Published: 2022-03-10 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Having started my store Flux Chargers and growing it to $110k/mo, I tested many storefronts and platforms before picking the one I’m currently using. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Nowadays it’s quite easy to get started with eCommerce; the hard part is picking the right platform for your needs out of the ocean of options. The main things you have to take into consideration when making that choice are the pricing, features, ease of use, template design, the customization, etc. Additionally, things like support team, security, payment and shipping options, and scalability are also quite important when choosing. The best platforms are summarized in this article like Shopify, Volusion, BigCommerce, 3D cart, Big Cartel, Wix, WooCommerce, Magento, GoDaddy, Smoolis, Squarespace, and Yo!Kart. Once you read all of their pros and cons your decision will be much easier to make. I’m an [ecommerce junkie](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/). Having started my store [Flux Chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/) and [growing it to $110k/mo](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/), I tested many storefronts and platforms before picking the one I’m currently using. Ecommerce is a growing industry (analysts predict it to become a 1 trillion dollar industry by 2022) and you should give it a try sooner rather than later. Nowadays, it’s easy to get started and set up a store in a matter of a few minutes. The hard part is picking the platform that will allow you to grow and that will help you keep costs down. (here’s [how you can grow your sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything)) The majority of the ecommerce platforms out there will give your business basic functionalities such as showcasing your products or service through online catalogs, handle customers even after-sales or receive payments online. More advanced ones will allow using more innovative features such as marketing capabilities, APIs utilization or running specific in-store systems. But, with so many alternatives, it becomes quite overwhelming to decide which provider to go for. In this article, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of the biggest and [best e-commerce platforms,](https://www.guru99.com/best-ecommerce-platform.html) and provide you a recommendation at the end. ## Main Factors to Consider When Choosing an E-Commerce Platform ![](/images/posts/inline/44e738b2-blur-connection-ecommerce-230544-1024x683.jpg) When it comes to deciding what [e-commerce platform to use for your store](https://www.outlookindia.com/business-spotlight/5-best-ecommerce-platforms-in-india-2023-review--news-269170), the possibilities can be endless. These sites can look profusely the same there are slight differences or certain advantages that can significantly affect your e-commerce merchandising experience. Here’s a table that summarizes the top 12 best e-commerce platform based on price, usability, features, popularity and customization:
PricingUsabilityFeaturesPopularityCustomization
Shopify⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Volusion⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
BigCommerce⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3DCart⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Big Cartel⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wix⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WooCommerce⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Magento⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Go Daddy⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Squarespace⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Smoolis⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Yo!Kart⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Here are the main points you should look in for before choosing one: ### Pricing Whether you’re a big enterprise or a smaller business, you should always know what you’ll be paying. Almost most of the e-commerce platforms will have a **monthly subscription fee**. The cost will vary depending on the features that come with the package you’ll pick. You’ll also have to take a look at the processing each site entails. Often, pricing becomes the immediate deciding factor for many people. However, you don’t want to sacrifice the things you’ll need for your business to save a few bucks. With all of the efforts you are investing in your web retail space, it is always vital aiming to get the best deal for your money. ### Features Another thing you to consider are the features that the e-commerce platform can provide. Check which has the most add-ons, plugins, extensions or other tools you can use integral in selling online and scaling your business. ### Usability (Ease of Use) If you are a newbie in the online retail space, it is great to have a platform which is easier to use. While they have an array of functionalities, you must also consider if you could be able to utilize them. This hassle-free navigation also goes the same way for your customers. They use mobile phones majority of the time so you want a platform that would enable them to easily access your site on their mobile device and minimize the amount of time it would take for them to find a product and buy it. ### Popularity Of course, you want a larger audience for your online store to convert more sales. Choosing a platform that is already established and has a high search volume can be a pretty big advantage. Also choosing a popular platform will ensure that questions you might have could already be answered in a forum or subReddit. ### Template Design Consider how many themes or template are available for you to select from. Different e-commerce sites provide professionally-designed templates that are enticing to the eye and can greatly improve your customer’s experience. The ‘look’ of your website can easily frustrate or lure the same way how a physical store looks or is organized. ## Other Aspects to Look At in Choosing an E-Commerce Platform Those main factors significantly affect your online store. But, there are other aspects you could consider in selecting your [e-commerce builder](https://acowebs.com/ecommerce-automation-benefits/). Getting these extras can be beneficial for your business. ### Payment and Shipping Options Shipping and payment, sometimes, can make or break a customer’s decision to purchase online. If the shipping is too costly or not via their desired carrier of if their preferred payment method is not supported, they can quickly look elsewhere. More options result in more potential customers. ### Support Team Managing a physical store is smoother as you get to have more control in running your business. Online retail space is quite different and can be tricky. Outages and downtimes may take place that would prevent your customers from accessing your site and affect your revenue. Something you should take into consideration is the platform’s customer service. Take a look if they are available 24/7, are they easy to reach and how much support costs. ### Security Security is a big concern for most customers. No consumer would want to put their credit card information in peril. Check and see it to it that the e-commerce website you’ll choose supports HTTPS/SSL for a safe and secure payout for your users. ### Scalability Any business owner would surely want to see their business growing in the future. It is very imperative to look for an e-commerce builder that will support the growth of your business. You would want to choose a platform that is capable of scaling to your business size but won’t charge you expensive fees for doing so. ## Here are the 12 Best E-Commerce Platforms Now that you know what aspects to consider, it’s time to rank the best online store platform for your business needs! Here are the top 12 e-commerce websites available in the market: ## **1\. Shopify** ![](/images/posts/inline/83e927ea-screenshot_2-1.png) Established in 2006, [Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/?ref=flux-ventures-llc) has grown and become one of the more prominent platforms out there. Perhaps, it is the most popular among the e-commerce builder available in the market. No surprise as it handily provides everything you need to build your online store – you can have it up-and-running in a few minutes! Starting at an affordable **$13 per month** for their basic account, you’ll get help listing on eBay and Amazon, tools for branding, Facebook store solutions and a POS feature. That’s all in one dashboard which also has an easy setup where you can swiftly add your products or services, combined with fields for titles, information, prices, and other kinks. You can experience the same ease when handling your customers and their contact information, orders details, and your store statistics. You can effortlessly navigate through the menus and options. If you are looking for the most professional and modern-looking themes, Shopify also has it for you. The platform offers more than 100 themes, both free and paid. Moreover, you can customize it until you get the overall look you want for your store. The platform itself is also completely responsive which means that your store will be optimized for customers whether they access it from their desktop computer or their mobile device. [Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/?ref=flux-ventures-llc) accepts a wide range of credit cards, has 256-bit SSL encryption and Level 1 PCI compliance for ensured security. Should you experience any trouble or has some concerns to raise, their support team is available 24/7 via email, instant messaging or phone. Here’s a [free trial for Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/?ref=flux-ventures-llc). ### Pros - Easy to set up (you can publish your site within minutes - Drag-and-drop functionality - Offers over 100 high-quality themes you can choose from - Cheap pricing for startup business - Has a free trial for 14 days - Ability to use own domain name - Search engine optimized - Drag-and-drop functionality - Allow majority of payment options - Offers several features such as unlimited number of products, orders, bandwidth and file storage, plus site stats, blog modules and product reports - 24/7 access to customer care ### **Cons** - Only around 20 of their templates are free, and other themes can be quite expensive up to $180 - If you opt not to use their Shopify Payment, you can get charged for a transaction fee on each sale - The platform uses a liquid markup language, customizations can be possible but for additional costs ## 2\. Volusion ![](/images/posts/inline/ebc4cc63-screenshot_3-2.png) [Volusion](http://volusion.com) is a fully-cloud based e-commerce website builder. It offers all the necessary functionalities you’ll need to set up your online retail space plus, some added features which gives them a little extra kick from other platforms on the bunch. Starting at $29 per month, the platform has a nicely designed-dashboard, with all the main sections pointed out at the top. You can easily navigate to the essential menus and access your customers’ information, inventory, orders, marketing efforts, templates, and statistics. Adding is products is relatively easy but can be done faster on other platforms. If you are a newbie, don’t worry as there is an excellent step-by-step wizard that would guide you with the setup. Volusion only has around 40+ themes where you can choose from, 10 of them are free to use. While there are not that many options, all of them are responsive. But, when it comes to customizing the look, you may only alter the fonts and colors. Should you have advanced skills, you can verge into raw HTML and CSS editing, which the platform allows. The main reason why this platform is popular is that it offers features already built-in the dashboard. This means that you no longer need to pay for extra add-ons via a different app store. For instance, Volusion has an integrated SEO which is pretty easy to comprehend, and its incorporation to eBay or Amazon are relatively much intuitive than other e-commerce platforms. Other nice built-in features include: - A rewards program - Newsletters - Affiliates - Coupons - Gift certificates - Advanced shipping #### Pros - Has a free trial for 14 days - Nicely-designed dashboard - Responsive design - Great on-boarding and customer support - Intuitive interface - Selling can be integrated into Amazon and eBay - Provides other social media options so you may sell and share online - Built-in subscription and recurring payments #### **Cons** - Not much of variety when it comes templates - You need to have coding language or hire a developer to customize the design or layout of your pages - Limited add-ons - Lacks up and cross-selling functions - No built-in blogging capability - Restricted bandwidth and number of products depending on the plan ## **3\. BigCommerce** ![](/images/posts/inline/fed3dfa7-screenshot_4-1.png) [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce-landing/) is the next best alternative to Shopify as it offers almost the same range of features. The platform has one of the tidiest dashboards among the bunch and looks quite similar to Shopify’s. The navigation is neatly arranged on the sidebar menu which has been divided into sections purposely related. You can easily access your customers’ information, orders, and inventory. You can also make good use of the platform’s marketing analytics, modules and settings to further optimize your store. Adding your products is relatively easy. The platform uses tabs where you can swiftly get to edit the product information rather than putting it on a single screen. The platform has a good number of theme for you to choose under different categories. All of them are fully responsive and customizable aimed to provide a modern and streamlined experience for your customers. Customized shipping is an advantage for the most e-commerce website builder, and BigCommerce has that. Plus, it’s dropshipping features, acceptance of a wide range of credit cards and the flexible tax system will surely delight your customers. Also, one thing BigCommerce do better than the rest is customer support. Aside from their 24/7 live chat, phone, and email support, you can go to their customer support page that features tutorials, forums, informative videos, and a knowledge base. Their lowest plan costs 29.95 per month accompanied by extra features like gift cards, unlimited bandwidth, checkout codes, and professional statistics. #### Pros - Easy to use and navigate dashboard - SEO friendly, strong SEO performance - Scalable and flexible - Awesome theme designs - Drop shipping and warehouse integration - Shines in with multi-channel selling - Integration with the majority of the payment gateways - Great customer support - No transaction fees - POS integration #### Cons - No mobile app - A small selection of templates and designs - Fewer incorporation of third-party apps - Pricing can get expensive for larger stores - Cart abandonment is not available on the entry plan - Speed can be inconsistent based on some studies ## 4\. 3DCart ![](/images/posts/inline/ea6bf54d-screenshot_5-1.png) Founded in 1997, [3DCart](https://www.3dcart.com/) is probably one of the oldest available e-commerce platforms in the market. The platform is designed to help e-commerce store owners to be competitive by using an array of built-in features built which makes running your online store as fast as possible. The features include mobile selling and integration on places like Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook. The dashboard is quite easy to navigate via the web. If you are on the go,  they have a responsive version of the dashboard you can use on your mobile phone to make quick updates. Adding your products though it may be harder to accomplish compared to other sites. It’s not that bad, but you’ll get the hang of it pretty well. It’s a great thing that there is an onboarding video that would help you go through the setup process. When it comes to the templates, there are more than 100 responsive templates are available on their theme store directly connected to the dashboard. Each theme is unique and not just minor variations in colors or positioning. If you’re looking for a modern look or a more professional design, there is always one for you. 3DCart has five plans to choose from. The cheapest is the Nano Plan at $9.99. #### Pros - No transaction fees - Facebook and SEO marketing - Support all integration that you may need - Offers a variety of options for checkout - User-friendly dashboard for more experienced users - Eliminated bandwidth limitations #### Cons - Not so enticing dashboard - The interface can be hard to learn for beginners - Templates seem to be outdated, though you can find good ones in the bunch - Negative feedback on customer service - May experience issues upgrading ## **5\. Big Cartel** ![](/images/posts/inline/c6e7005e-screenshot_6-1.png) [Big Cartel](https://www.bigcartel.com/) is a platform steering away from its larger platforms. While the latter aims to support larger online stores, the former is intended for smaller companies. Their largest plan at $29.99 a month only allows you to input 300 products. Other sites can already allow you to place unlimited products at that price range. But, if you are planning to maintain just a small business, then this one’s for you. Building your online with store with this platform is easy. Navigation can swiftly be done, thanks to the large buttons available at the top of the screen. The sections would let you see your current products, latest orders as well as the several promotion options available. When it comes to optimizing the look of your site, using this platform may be a downfall as it only offers around 15 templates at the moment. There is not much variety to choose from though, you can search through Google and find some pretty good templates from third-party sellers but will cost to spend extra bucks. This platform is a minimalist one. The dashboard would only show you the most basic statistics regarding your store. You would get the most basic features you’ll need when launching a new e-commerce store, nothing more than that. It’s a basic player so if you’re planning to set your store into greater heights; you might have to look elsewhere. #### Pros - No transactions - Supports order management and inventory tracking - Easy to use, can be customized using simple point-and-click actions - No coding required - Supports multi-channel selling - Has a customer service team available through live chat or email - Very fast, both frontend and backend #### Cons - Lack of reporting feature - No blogging capabilities - No Search Function - Less Flexibility - Limited Payment Options - Doesn’t Support Multiple Languages ## **6\. Wix** ![](/images/posts/inline/7d169166-screenshot_8.png) [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is one of the most basic e-commerce builder sites out there. Perfect for those who are just starting up their business. (I started this way back in 2011!) It only has enough features you can explore with if you have a small business but not for those who have fast-growing ones. It’s user-friendly for beginners. It has a drag-and-drop functionality that would allow you to easily add elements and transform your website to the look that you want. The platform also offers a robust number of themes to choose from with some are even for free. However, be careful as you’ll be stuck with the theme you chose during the time of publishing your website unless you used their ADI function. They are pretty new in the e-commerce building market, and there are so many features they need to add up. But, they are already an established vendor when it comes to website making. There’s no doubt they can soon enough catch up with the more prominent platforms. While you may use their site for free, you cannot sell anything online unless you buy a plan. The most popular deal is priced at $12.50 per month.But, to access most features, we advise taking the VIP plan at $24.50 per month. #### **Pros** - Tons of free stunning templates and themes - User-friendly, easy to set up - No transaction fees - Excellent support, Help Center has a comprehensive collection of tutorial videos #### Cons - Bad SEO performance, made improvements but still unreliable - Still lacks marketing integrations and features such after-sales tools, the export of goods, personal user accounts - Low website bandwidth - You can be stuck with your site template - It can’t handle large projects compared to its competitors ## **7\. WooCommerce** ![](/images/posts/inline/3137ef39-productsbycategory-1024x650.jpg) [WooCommerce](https://woocommerce.com/) is the best platform run e-commerce and an affiliate site together. It is a WordPress plugin that would enable you to transform your WordPress sites into online stores. If you have one a WordPress blog, then, you can do turn it into an online site in a breeze! You only have to install the plug-in, add your products and fix the settings. This platform has its own secure payment processor and shopping cart. There are also extensions available for incorporating payment gateways, 1-click selling, email marketing, social media, and shipping. While the plug-in is free, the extensions or expansions have prices attached to them. This cost can also be the same as the WordPress themes as some of them can be pretty expensive. However, as your business grows, you might need to migrate to another platform as most users have reported the platform slowing down as they add more products and the number of customers increase. #### **Pros** - Great SEO performance through WordPress - Highly customizable - 1 Click selling - There are lots WordPress experts available you can consult - Offers several marketing options and plenty of integrations #### **Cons** - Good hosting can be expensive - Virtually has zero customer support - You need to purchase extensions even for some simple stuff - Can be quite to set up for users with no WordPress experience - Plug-ins comes from different channels, can be quite problematic when troubleshooting ## **8\. Magento** ![](/images/posts/inline/4eb12e39-screenshot_9.png) [Magento](http://magento.com) is specifically-made for enterprise-level businesses. It is an open-source platform that requires developer resources and programming which creates a significant advantage over its plug-and-play competitors. If you have a budget for a developer and wants to make your site completely powerful and customizable, this platform is a solid choice. You can do whatever you want to get your desired website. Magento’s is most used free. But, there paid level for enterprise solutions for larger businesses is genuinely commendable. It is expensive, which can cost $20,000 annually, but it offers a  wide variety of features for bigger sellers, such as the ability to support recurring payments, offer discounts, grind SEO and unlimited product listings. Magento can be a great choice if you are a massive enterprise seller, but not recommended if you have a small or midsize business with a lower product range. #### Pros - Offers a wide range of features - Strong SEO performance - Highly customizable and scalable - 1-Click selling - Has lots of users and community - Flexible when it comes to choosing where you want to host the software #### Cons - Expensive themes - The platform requires development skills - Slows down easily - Needs ample space and memory on your device to perform well - The platform involves development skills ## 9\. GoDaddy Godaddy has an ADI tool that helps you create a site in minutes while walking you through all the steps that you need to complete the setup. Because of this, Godaddy is the optimal choice for beginners, or people that have limited knowledge in eCommerce setups. Additionally, Goddady sells domain names and it’s offering personal and commercial web hosting. It basically offers a good starting package for any eCommerce business. There are many features at your fingertips such as secure checkout, SEO tools, different store themes, and unlimited product listings. The ease of use here is the main advantage since all you have to do is select a theme, add products, pricings, images, and pick out your preferred payment and shipping methods. #### Pros - Very easy to use - No coding/design skills needed - Amazing 24/7 customer support - Intuitive central dashboard - Unlimited product listings  - Windows or Linux-based servers  #### Cons - Limited options for customization - Can’t switch a theme once you’ve chosen - No cloud hosting - Only one eCommerce plan ## 10\. **Squarespace** Squarespace is a good choice for startups since their promotional tools will assist you into a fast start into your earning. Being a startup can be quite stressful and the initial set-up process can get quite long. With Squarespace you can directly go into selling your products with pre-prepared templates and promotional tools. They offer a wide array of amazingly designed templated, and their website editor is quite simple to use as well. No matter what plan you’re going to choose, you’ll get features like:  1. Unlimited bandwidth and storage 2. SEO guidance  3. Advanced web analytics 4. Promotional banners and pop-ups 5. Integration with all major credit cards 6. Email marketing features If you need additional features, there are plans that can accommodate your needs too with the Commerce Plan that also offers: 1. Selling and accepting gifts 2. Accepting donations 3. Customer accounts for storing data 4. Related products 5. Selling product on Instagram 6. Multiple currency support #### Pros - A wide array of templates and designs - Free 14-day trial period, no credit card - Drag and drop website builder - A very good blogging feature - Live support chat - Mobile apps #### Cons - Limited integrations - No phone customer support - Not suitable for larger websites with bigger hierarchies  - Extra fee for payment processing ## 11\. **Smoolis** Smoolis is the best choice for you if you are looking to become great in international sales and have a multilingual website. It supports 58 languages. The possibility of having a multilingual site comes with ease of use, no additional plugins needed or any special developer skills. Additionally, Smoolis accepts international currencies. It’s best suitable for small and medium businesses and offers functionalities like templates, data security, inventory management, mobile access, SEO management, and more. The price is very affordable and it’s quite easy to activate the new languages that you need. There’s a search tool that works for all language options. Tax rates are calculated based on the currency and country. It allows five payment getaways with all major credit cards, Stripe, PayPal included. #### Pros - 14-day free trial with no credit card requirements - Multilingual possibilities - Built-in currency converter  - Affordable plans #### Cons - Limited to 500 products - Limited to 100 web pages - Fewer integrations compared to other platforms ## 12\. Yo!Kart ![](/images/posts/inline/0d17ef46-yokart-homepage-1.png) Yo!Kart is an award-winning product of FATbit Technologies that has been used by startups to large enterprises for their online marketplace needs. Founded in the year 2015, it is a turnkey [](https://www.yo-kart.com/)[eCommerce marketplace platform](https://www.yo-kart.com/?q=alejandrorioja) used to build multi-vendor websites similar to Amazon, eBay, and Etsy. Unlike other eCommerce platforms like Shopify or Bigcommerce, it does not require any external plugin or app to launch a multi-vendor marketplace. It is an exclusive eCommerce solution developed to build multi-vendor marketplaces where different vendors can sell their products.  Yo!Kart has 2 pricing packages. The GoQuick package is available at $999 with default design. However, if you want a fully customizable design, then you can go for the GoCustom package that is available at $6999. Both packages provide benefits such as lifetime license, source code ownership, whitelabel, and 1-year free technical support.  Since it does not require any additional API or external plugins, the solution reduces the overall cost of your eCommerce marketplace. Nevertheless, as you own the code, you can always customize it depending on your business requirements at a bare minimum cost. Yo!Kart has an in-built Abandoned Cart Recovery module to help follow up cart abandoners and motivate them to make the purchase. It has 20+ pre-integrated payment gateways including PayPal, Stripe Connect, Amazon Pay, etc. To streamline shipping & tax management, it also has pre-integrated APIs such as AfterShip, ShipStation, TaxJar, and Avalara APIs.  [](https://www.yo-kart.com/blog/yokart-releases-v9-3-0-to-personalize-shopping-experiences-automate-payouts-taxes-shipping/)[Yo!Kart V9.3](https://www.yo-kart.com/blog/yokart-releases-v9-3-0-to-personalize-shopping-experiences-automate-payouts-taxes-shipping/?q=alejandrorioja) is the latest version released with an abundance of new features to facilitate personalizing shopping experiences, automate fulfillment processes and increase the performance of ecommerce marketplaces. Here are a few more advantageous features offered by Yo!Kart: 1. Best User-interface  2. Separate vendor store-fronts 3. Product Catalog System 4. Advanced Order Management 5. PWA & GDPR Compliant 6. Self Pickup Module 7. Geolocation  8. Ready native mobile apps #### **Pros** - The standalone solution to build Multi-vendor Marketplaces - Completely customizable & highly scalable - Multilingual & Multi-currency functionality - Fully owned license - Zero transaction fees - One time payment - Flexible payment terms - Multiple revenue channels - 12 months free technical support #### **Cons** - No Free Trial - Free Themes are not available  - Product upgrades are paid ## Rounding up! - **Shopify** is best for dropshipping  - **Volusion** is best for low starting budgets - **BigCommerce** is best overall - **3D cart** is best for only online - **Big Cartel** is best for selling individual pieces - **Wix** is best for small businesses - **WooCommerce** is best for many functionalities  - **Magento** is best for large businesses - **GoDaddy** is best for ease of use  - **Smoolis** is best for international sales - **Squarespace** is best for startups - **Yo!Kart is Best for Building Online Marketplace** ## The Winner…. Shopify! The given e-commerce platforms are only a few of the other dozens in the market. It may be a mammoth task choosing where to start as it entails the future of your business. Among the bunch, it is [Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/?ref=flux-ventures-llc) that stands out and is still  the best e-commerce platform today. This platform is used by most types of all people, from ones who are just starting a business up to established multi-million dollar enterprises. No wonder why, Shopify is the most feature-rich, flexible and complete one compared to its competitors. It is designed to help people create their online stores with ease, equipped with hundreds of useful features and lots of apps. It lets you easily customize your design swiftly and add various extensions. Plus, you can sell pretty much everything you want, including digital products, physical products, downloads, services. You can even have your online store up-and-running in a breeze! If you’re looking for a good head start in the e-commerce industry, Shopify is the excellent choice – the all-around e-commerce platform. Get your [free Shopify trial here](https://www.shopify.com/?ref=flux-ventures-llc). Now that you’ve picked your platform, it’s time to get it [set up and pick a niche](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/). Drop a comment below with the platform you are using and a link to your store so we can all check it out! (Also, this will give you a free backlink ?) Do you use an e-commerce platform that I should review? Let me know in the comments or message me via Facebook. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## GoDaddy Review 2026: Is This Hosting Service Worth Choosing? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/ Published: 2022-03-10 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: E-commerce, create ecommerce android app, ecommerce mobile app development, Web Design ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. I recently reviewed [Bluehost here](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/) and got a couple of questions about how I see [GoDaddy](https://emit.reviews/reviews/godaddy/) as compared to it.  Well, that’s a good question! So I have decided to put together a detailed review, not just in comparison with Bluehost but covering all the service aspects as well. GoDaddy is an American Internet domain registrar and [web hosting provider](https://emit.reviews/reviews/godaddy/) that offers different solutions for domain name registration, SSL security, website building, professional email, and a whole lot of other online applications. It towers over most domain registration and web hosting service providers largely because it has been around since 1997. Also, the brand has expanded wildly over its 23-year run, acquiring industry competitors such as Outright, Mad Mimi, and Host Europe Group. It has also run advertisements in traditional media such as TV, newspapers, and even during the Super Bowl. While it is nothing short of being a web hosting titan, there are still other worthy competitors in terms of pricing and service. ## GoDaddy vs BlueHost ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/dI4O2UD0IWeimxaNdWfFBP0hCiRrwiL_TyamdeYEAQVGtLEXm1xH1M-8aUMO7W3zk0nbi_6gr1xVeKOxmCsfPHJhc6rHRrddmbn7ZkZR0ytrcqrxRrgV2ZqgRE3IhS2wB418pBbI) Both GoDaddy and BlueHost are recognized veterans in the web hosting industry – having been around for almost the same time as each other. BlueHost was founded in 1996 and GoDaddy a year later. ### Shared Web Hosting Capabilities Shared Web Hosting refers to the low-cost method where multiple sites are hosted in a single server, which makes it the most cost-effective option. But keep in mind that it is not intended for large websites with high online traffic. It is intended for small sites such as small and medium businesses and personal blogs. Basically, in terms of quality of service, GoDaddy and BlueHost offer almost the same amount and quality of service for your money. You can expect reliable uptime, email hosting, and website building solutions. However, in their respective high-end plans, GoDaddy Ultimate against BlueHost Prime, GoDaddy has the upper hand. GoDaddy gives you SSL certificates which tag your website as safe and allows you to establish secure and safe connections over the Internet. It also offers Premium DNS with twice the memory and processing power.  Even better, GoDaddy comes with a free domain registration with any of their hosting plans if you pay a year in advance. ### E-Commerce Hosting Pricing Plans E-Commerce hosting is an increasing application of web hosting services, where they offer companies the necessary features involved in selling their products and services over the Internet. This includes the server to host the company’s web pages as well as the resources and capabilities to accept and process a variety of secure online payment terms.
 GoDaddy hosting features:Bluehost hosting features:
(Magento)(WooCommerce)
PlanGrow(Perfect for E-commerce)StarterPlusPro
Price per month$34.99$6.95$8.95$12.95
Number of DomainsUnlimited Domain names5 (Add-on domains)UnlimitedUnlimited
Monthly avg. trafficN/AN/AN/AN/A
Disk Space120GB100 GBN/AN/A
Backup SpaceN/AN/AN/AN/A
RAM6 GBN/AN/AN/A
CPUs3N/AN/AN/A
Bandwidth​Unlimited bandwidthN/AN/AN/A
Dedicated IP1111
SSL CertificateYESPositive SSLPositive SSLComodo SSL
Email AccountsUnlimited5UnlimitedUnlimited
Uptime99.90%99.99%99.99%99.99%
Based on the table above, BlueHost is obviously the cheaper web hosting option. Unfortunately, more technical users might be left with a few questions as the CPU and RAM in each BlueHost plan is not included. However, most industry experts and experienced users definitely recommend GoDaddy and Magento under the following circumstances: 1. Need a complete e-commerce platform with a large amount of web hosting resources 2. Require advanced security features for web hosting 3. Plan to put up a large store, expect large online traffic, with plans to even scale upwards more in the future. ### GoDaddy vs BlueHost WordPress Hosting In terms of website building, WordPress is among the most widely used platforms available. In fact, web hosting services like GoDaddy and BlueHost are just some of the companies that have designed their own plans for integrating with this content management system.
 GoDaddy  Bluehost 
PlanBasicDeluxeUltimateStandardEnhancedPremiumUltimate
Price (month)$3.99$4.99$7.99$19.99$29.99$39.99$49.99
No of Domain names1 Domain name1 Domain name2UnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Free DomainYESYESYESYESYESYESYES
Monthly avg. traffic25K100K400K100 million300 million600 millionUnlimited
Disk Space10 GB SSD15 GB SSD30 GB SSD30GB60GB120GB240GB
Backup SpaceN/AN/AN/A30GB60GB120GB240GB
RAMN/AN/AN/A2GB4GB6GB8GB
Dedicated IPNONOYES1111
SSL NONOYESYESYESPositive SSLPositive Wildcard SSL
Uptime 99.90%99.90%99.90%99.99%99.99%99.99%99.90%
Opposite to E-Commerce hosting analysis, GoDaddy is advisable for hosting WordPress sites that might not need a lot of resources. For most applications such as blogs or small businesses, GoDaddy and WordPress can cover most of its user needs. Consequently, this same relationship between these two companies extends to premium, high-end plans intended for large companies and web hosting professionals who are in expecting a larger amount of traffic and are in need of more resources and higher limits. [Relevant: Don’t forget to check the features that make WordPress great here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) ### GoDaddy over BlueHost As I have illustrated in previous tables, GoDaddy offers more resources at face value compared to BlueHost. Even more, GoDaddy has excellent partnership plans for hosting your WordPress account. BlueHost offers more cost-efficient solutions for users who are looking for less resource-intensive solutions. In fact, they take the lead in terms of being beginner-friendly since you can build your site and get in online with less effort. On the other hand, GoDaddy excels in E-Commerce hosting and WordPress hosting. All plans include PHP7, multiple caching layers, and dynamic load balancing so you can expect increased traffic without the hassle. Also, they offer free SSL that keeps your transaction and communication secure and they also run periodic site monitoring and DDOS attack monitoring procedures. ## GoDaddy vs Amazon Web Services (AWS) ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/cuekQSElbX1DErMcFkqOW5y2WxL17brMPBu8OFt99xfEDtgDnSA9d3fQKlCx0-J9fYF8nSNZY79lRa7t9WNy1uO-CmlB6URt_za_AMND-gDyDSfLxj9tU4KLjx0w3yTfuZ9x8snD) I will honest, comparing GoDaddy with Amazon Web Services is quite difficult. While both are web hosting companies, they are fundamentally different in terms of complexity and target market. GoDaddy, having been around for a longer time compared to AWS which was launched in 2006. Basically, GoDaddy is designed to cater to a wide variety of applications and the experience level of its users. One could say that it has simplified plans perfect for beginners in web hosting. AWS, on the other hand, is intended for developers and more experienced users. ### GoDaddy vs AWS in Pricing It is important to note first that Amazon Web Services does not have rigid-structured pricing plans compared to most traditional web hosting companies like GoDaddy. The following table illustrates GoDaddy’s basic pricing plans.

GoDaddy hosting features:
PlanEconomyDeluxeUltimateMaximum
Price per month$2.99$4.99$5.99$12.99
Amazon Web Services, on the other hand, offers a pay-as-you-go method. You get to choose the resources and services you need from over 160 cloud services available. For beginners, the number of cloud services grouped into categories tends to be overwhelming. For experienced professionals, however, they can choose the exact services they need without incurring unnecessary expenses. It also allows the company to adjust its plans depending on the online traffic or business conditions. Another advantage AWS has over GoDaddy is that AWS offers free hosting for the first year. Although this is a limited hosting solution, it allows beginners to experiment and try putting up their website without significant financial commitments. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/eoFeWshQbWIiSgMLnMeyNU29Eqt2pjtcq5rPTR6doBecXgWXaNuFEAeSuuj0xlD94J6rb35zY3URJipOxfVmaC_qfylTATnrLTQkM-c9pLVCjYY5rkQKme95oeHm_VWA2TzWeMdC) ### GoDaddy vs AWS in Features If we would break down the features between GoDaddy and AWS, we will end up with basically the same list. However, the main difference is in flexibility and presentation. To summarize, here are the features included in every GoDaddy pricing plan.

GoDaddy hosting features:
PlanEconomyDeluxeUltimateMaximum
Price per month$2.99$4.99$5.99$12.99
Features24/7 support, 100GB storage unmetered bandwidth free business email free domainEconomy features plus unlimited websites unlimited storage subdomainsDeluxe features, plus double processing power double memory free SSL certificate (for one term)and unlimited databasesUltimate features, plus double the processing power memory double maximum site traffic free SSL certificate for the full term
Basically, with every upgraded plan, you get all benefits from the preceding plan plus doubled capacity for processing speeds and memory. In Ultimate and Maximum plans, free SSL certificates are thrown in. On the other hand, AWS offers a setup experience similar to sandboxing where you get to choose all the features you need. In the AWS site, cloud features are classified into twenty-five sections, each containing anywhere from one to fifteen specific services you will need on your own website. ### Uptime Differences In terms of uptime, Amazon Web Services reach impressive uptimes of 100% a year. Meanwhile, GoDaddy averages at about 99.94%. This translates to less downtime for sites hosted by AWS compared to GoDaddy. While the 0.06% difference appears negligible, this can still spell several dollars in losses depending on the size and traffic of the site. This discrepancy is due to the collective traffic in both web hosts. On average, AWS hosts some 3000 or so different websites every day while GoDaddy hosts nearly a million individual websites per day. Relevant: [You would like to read my guide on Best Amazon SEO practices](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/) ## GoDaddy vs Kinsta ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gpTUbB3HOEdEFjON04_5n1CyjT-jusJX_vjSWyTn-4ZmImSLiWXwWv9pkF9E9_XQ6htUBx0hCsmC6gvlrI-Rs1MUk5dKW7LGWCFcgaGhmBDN0eGn-vT9IZxrJ_7XzHfcI9HvfEbo) GoDaddy and BlueHost are independent web hosting services with integration plans for WordPress contents while AWS is, of course, operating under the Amazon banner. Kinsta is quite different in the sense that it is focused on hosting WordPress websites. It also sells the brand as a fully “managed” hosting platform like others but Kinsta focuses on arranging all management-related work for you. Also, Kinsta runs on the Google Cloud Platform. Meaning, the infrastructure that will handle your WordPress content will be the same as the one used by all Google Services such as Gmail and Apps. ### GoDaddy vs Kinsta in Pricing In terms of pricing, GoDaddy has a variety of pricing schemes across five hosting options – shared, business, VPS, dedicated, WordPress hosting. GoDaddy’s WordPress hosting plans start at 2.99 USD a month while [Kinsta’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/kinsta) basic plans start at 30USD per month. Of course, Kinsta’s basic plan comes with additional features and protection aside from the automated management of your WordPress.  See the following breakdown of plans for both GoDaddy and Kinsta below.

GoDaddy
PlanBasicDeluxeUltimatePro 5+
Price per Month4.997.999.9924.99
No of WP Websites1111
Storage (in GB)3075UnlimitedUnlimited
Monthly Traffic25K max100K maxUnlimitedUnlimited
BackupWebsite backup protection with one-click restoreWebsite backup protection with one-click restoreWebsite backup protection with one-click restoreWebsite backup protection with one-click restore
Malware ProtectionYesYesYesYes
SSL Certificates

freefree
GoDaddy has four pricing plans for WordPress hosting, often considered as among the cheapest plans available in the market today. It has the most resources to get your site up and running. For more details, you can check their WordPress hosting plans and features [here](https://ph.godaddy.com/hosting/wordpress-hosting?isc=cjc1off30&cjelbDays=45&AID=10388358&SID=02eb3949becd77001e46faf259f03c0c&utm_source=cj&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=xx-xx_corp_affiliate_10388358_001&utm_content=Marketing+VF+Ltd_3524920&tgt=5529645).

Kinsta
PlanStarterProBusiness 1Business 4Enterprise 1Enterprise 4
Price per Month30601004006001500
No of WP Websites1254060150
Storage (in GB)10203060100250
Monthly Traffic20K40K100K600K1M3M
BackupAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one-click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one-click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one-click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one-click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one-click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one-click restore
Malware ProtectionYesYesYesYesYesYes
SSL Certificatesfreefreefreefreefreefree
Meanwhile, Kinsta has four tiers for its WordPress hosting plans: Starter, Pro, Business, and Enterprise. Business and Enterprise plans are further divided from Business 1 to 4 and Enterprise 1 to 4. While it starts way higher than GoDaddy, it is important to note that it uses the Google Cloud Platform and even its basic plans offer SSL certificates, allowing you to start with secure HTTP connections right off the bat. To get a more detailed rundown of Kinsta pricing plans, you can check their [website](https://kinsta.com/plans/). ### GoDaddy vs Kinsta in Features Kinsta emphasizes its focus on WordPress management by basically hosting and integrating only with WordPress. In contrast, GoDaddy is capable of integration with other platformers – open-source or otherwise – such as Drupal for content management and Magento for E-commerce applications. However, Kinsta upstages GoDaddy in security-based features, mostly since it uses the same infrastructure as Google. Kinsta-hosted WordPress sites can be set for automatic daily backups and daily malware/ DDOS monitoring. Also, it offers SSL to all its users regardless of pricing plans available unlike GoDaddy. ### For WordPress, Kinsta over GoDaddy GoDaddy definitely beats Kinsta in terms of hosting flexibility and prices, since GoDaddy has been on the market longer and serves greater online traffic. However, for website owners planning to set up a WordPress-based website with a streamlined management process and are willing to invest a little more, Kinsta is definitely the better choice. It should also be noted that Kinsta’s plans starting from Basic to Enterprise 4 are all designed for business owners, offering management services to reduce the owner’s load and allow them to focus on other aspects of management. For blogging purposes, GoDaddy is still the more advisable option because of its low pricing plans and larger resource limits. ## GoDaddy vs WPEngine ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i5qbe7W_zx-bJUVWZsTvi_38Hq5Gz1yGcWmD356tYnFd9WkgCMl1ekDNrQNqrG_P5uYX8Boneb3qN8tVEZh1guEI9H1e8GjTT3yGlRuvha_DGJ78u70SrxKY9dhruaUOyQbGIiHx) Comparing GoDaddy with WPEngine has to be set on common grounds because like Kinsta, WPEngine is also a WordPress-only hosting service. In fact, WPEngine also came three years before Kinsta was founded in 2013. While GoDaddy’s WordPress hosting is relatively new compared to its other hosting options, it is built on the resources and brand recognition GoDaddy has earned over the years. WPEngine stands its ground as a formidable company in the hosting industry with its recent acquisition of Flywheel, another hosting company and a competitor to the aforementioned brands. ### GoDaddy against WPEngine in Pricing GoDaddy’s prices for WordPress hosting are already in the table above. WPEngine’s prices also start out pretty high, at 30USD per month. However, compared to both GoDaddy and Kinsta, WPEngine sits squarely in between the two with plans rapidly increasing in resource limits across its three payment plans.

WPEngine
PlanStartupGrowthScale
Price per Month30115290
No of WP Websites11030
Storage (in GB)102050
Monthly Traffic25K100K400K
BackupN/AN/AN/A
Malware ProtectionN/AN/AN/A
SSL Certificatesfreefreefree
Also, for larger applications such as enterprises and mission-critical websites, WPEngine commits a high-performance environment dedicated to keeping your site up with the best resources and services available. Their [custom](https://wpengine.com/plans/) plans require prior meetings and coordination with their sales representatives. ### GoDaddy and WPEngine in Features and Support Both GoDaddy and its WordPress-owned contemporary easily offer basic services for setting up your website. Where GoDaddy has become the standard for most web hosting companies, WPEngine builds upon these services and improves them.

WP EngineGoDaddy ManagedGoDaddy Shared
WordPress InstallerYESYESYES
WordPress UpdatesYESYESNO
Custom Hosting DashboardYESYESNO
Automatic BackupsYESYESNO
Staging SitesYESYES*NO
Server-Level CachingYESYESNO
Free SSLYESYES*NO
Free CDNYESYESNO
Putting up WordPress websites is available in two of GoDaddy’s five subscription plans – for shared hosted and managed hosting options. However, as shown in the table above, shared hosting only allows the bare minimum for WordPress management. Also, WPEngine allows staging sites and gives free SSL certification for all of its payment plans while GoDaddy’s managed hosting plan only offers both on their higher-tier plans. On the upside, GoDaddy’s managed hosting plans are far more affordable compared to their WPEngine counterparts. In terms of live chat, GoDaddy experiences downtime and this function might not always be available. This also depends on the hour of the day and your location. Unfortunately, a significant chunk of website managers usually works during the evenings which puts GoDaddy at a disadvantage.WPEngine is aware of this fact and maintains a strong 24/7 live chat support service. ### GoDaddy vs WPEngine in terms of Speed and Uptime GoDaddy was not the strongest competitor in terms of speed but in marketing reach, uptime, and flexibility. Over the years, it now has nine data centers scattered around the world and maintains decent Internet speeds, averaging 500 to 540 milliseconds over the previous year. While they have invested significant server infrastructure for both shared and dedicated hosting, it still has limited accessibility for premium DNS and SSL certification. WPEngine, meanwhile, uses Content Delivery Network for most of its plans which shows its commitment for fast content transfer and delivery. Also, WPEngine employs the EverCache as its built-in caching system, which dramatically reduces the page-load time to speeds below 500ms. For non-users of WPEngine and its EverCache, the usual move for WordPress users looking to reduce page loading time for visitors, they can install third-party caching plugins such as the W3 Total Cache. In terms of uptime, it might appear insignificant as the two brands are close together in this category. WPEngine maintains an average uptime of 99.99%. Meanwhile, GoDaddy also offers 99.99% uptime but some independent testers find out that it dips to 99.98%. That 0.01 difference in uptime translates to more than 45 hours of downtime over 6 months of service between WPEngine and GoDaddy.  ## Wrapping Up! Overall, GoDaddy is good for a variety of domain registry and web hosting services especially for developers looking for a one-stop-shop across multiple applications and platforms. Its massive marketing arm and its endurance in the market speaks volumes about its performance and service.  Looking closer, GoDaddy clearly does not dominate all aspects people might look for their web hosting service provider. Most of its competitors hold an advantage over the senior brand, like BlueHost, AWS, Kinsta, and WP Engine has demonstrated. It is still important to note that the battle for the best web hosting service provider still depends on user-specific criteria such as budget and application. You can take advantage of free trial plans such as with AWS and WPEngine and see the specific items you might or might not need in your planned website. If you’re looking to boost the traffic on your site, check out some articles below to help you. Also, don’t forget to leave your comments below: - Your guide to getting [250,000+ Visits](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-increase-website-traffic/) on your website - Your guide to getting more  [Instagram Followers](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/) - How to effectively use [Twitter to Expand Your Business](https://flux.la/using-twitter-expand-business/)? If this article helped you, let me know in the comments section what other topics would you like me to cover on the blog. You can [join my newsletter here](https://alejandrorioja.com/newsletter/) for some regular and effective tips on growing your business --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Google Make Money? The 2026 Revenue Breakdown ($350B+) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/ Published: 2022-03-10 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, Google, SEO TL;DR: Alphabet did ~$350B revenue in 2024; ~76% from advertising, ~13% from Google Cloud (~$45B and growing fast), ~10% from Subscriptions/Devices/Other. Inside ads: ~57% Google Search, ~12% YouTube, ~7% Network. AI Overviews and the Gemini integration are the 2026 story changing all of this. ## Table of contents Alphabet (Google's parent) did roughly $350B in revenue in 2024 ([10-K filing](https://abc.xyz/investor/)), making it the third-largest company by revenue in the world behind Walmart and Amazon. The 2026 reality: it's no longer just "Google = search ads." Cloud is a real business now, YouTube is a real subscriptions business, and the Gemini AI rollout is reshaping the search business itself. This is the operator-grade breakdown of how Google actually makes money in 2026.
Alphabet, Inc.
Google's parent holding company since 2015. Trades as $GOOGL / $GOOG. Owns Google (search, ads, YouTube, Workspace), Google Cloud, Pixel hardware, Waymo, DeepMind, and the "Other Bets" portfolio (Verily, Calico, etc.).
## The $350B revenue split
~76%
Advertising (Search, YouTube, Network)
~13%
Google Cloud
~10%
Subscriptions, Devices, Other
~1%
Other Bets (Waymo, Verily, etc.)
The dominant line is still ads. But the *story* has shifted — Cloud crossed ~$45B annual run rate, YouTube subscriptions (YouTube Premium + Music + TV) crossed ~$15B in subscription revenue, and AI Overviews has started materially shifting the unit economics of the search business itself. ## 1 · Google Search ads — still the biggest line About ~$200B of Alphabet's 2024 revenue came from Google Search ads — call it ~57% of the total. This is the business that built Google. Two product shifts matter for 2026: - **AI Overviews are now default** on ~60% of US informational queries. That has cut organic CTR on those queries by 15–30% according to published 2024–25 studies from Ahrefs, Authoritas, and similar. Some of that traffic stays inside Google (in the AI Overview), some leaks to ChatGPT and Perplexity. - **Performance Max and AI Powered Search campaigns** are now the default ad type. PMax + Demand Gen are AI-driven bidding products that have grown faster than classic Search campaigns since 2023. ## 2 · YouTube — ~$40B and growing YouTube ads alone hit roughly ~$40B in 2024 (~12% of Alphabet). That's bigger than Netflix's entire revenue. Add YouTube Premium + YouTube Music + YouTube TV subscriptions (~$15B+ in 2024) and YouTube is its own ~$55B business. The 2026 YouTube revenue mix:
  1. 01
    In-stream + Shorts ads. The classic YouTube ad inventory plus rev share on Shorts (which finally became material in 2024 after the ad-share program rolled out broadly).
  2. 02
    YouTube Premium / Music subscriptions. Crossed ~125M paying subscribers mid-2025. ~$13.99/mo US, lower in emerging markets.
  3. 03
    YouTube TV. Live TV streaming. ~8M+ paying subs at $82.99/mo. Material live-sports plays (NFL Sunday Ticket exclusive since 2023).
  4. 04
    Channel memberships + Super Chats + Shopping. Smaller but high-margin direct creator monetization lines.
## 3 · Google Cloud — finally profitable Google Cloud was a money-loser for years. By 2024, it crossed ~$45B in annual revenue and went **operating-income positive** every quarter — meaningful structural shift. Growth is being driven by enterprise AI inference workloads (Gemini, third-party model APIs) on top of GCP infrastructure. The 2026 GCP story: - **Workspace** (Gmail + Drive + Docs for business) — steady recurring revenue, ~10M paying organizations - **GCP Infrastructure** — the cloud-services line; competes with AWS and Azure for AI workload share - **Vertex AI + Gemini API** — model serving and AI tooling for enterprises building on top of Google's models ## 4 · Google Network — the ad-network business The "Network" line is what Google charges to serve ads on *other publishers' properties* via AdSense, AdMob, Ad Manager, and Google Network Properties. About ~$30B in 2024 — meaningful but declining as a share, as advertisers and publishers consolidate on owned-and-operated surfaces (Search and YouTube). This is the line under the most pressure from the EU's Digital Markets Act and the US DOJ ad-tech case (Google was found liable in 2024; the remedy is pending). 2026–2027 could see structural changes here. ## 5 · Devices, Subscriptions, Other The "Subscriptions, Platforms, and Devices" line ($40B+ in 2024) includes: - **Pixel phones and tablets** (~$8–10B revenue estimate) - **Nest, Fitbit, Pixel Watch** (smaller) - **Google One** storage subscriptions - **Play Store** app sales and in-app purchases (~$15B+ revenue at the take-rate level) - **Google TV / Chromecast / OS licensing** Not big individually, but together a meaningful diversification line. ## What about Other Bets? The "Other Bets" line (Waymo, Verily, Calico, Wing, X — formerly Google X) makes ~$1B annually and *loses* ~$5B annually. It's the experimental innovation pool. **Waymo** crossed 200k+ paid riders/week in mid-2025 (still small relative to Uber but growing). **DeepMind** is consolidated into the Gemini program. ## Google vs Meta vs Amazon — ad market scale
Google
  • ~$265B ad revenue (2024)
  • Search dominant + YouTube + Network
  • ~76% of Alphabet revenue
  • AI Overviews reshaping unit econ
vs
Meta
  • ~$162B ad revenue (2024)
  • Family of Apps (FB / IG / WA)
  • ~98% of Meta revenue
  • Reels + Threads + Ads Manager AI
Google
  • ~$265B ad revenue
  • Intent-driven (Search)
vs
Amazon
  • ~$55B ad revenue (2024)
  • Sponsored Products inside Amazon retail
  • Closing the gap with Meta's Network
Google + Meta + Amazon collectively own ~65% of global digital ad spend. The next-largest peers (TikTok, X, Microsoft Bing) are an order of magnitude smaller individually. ## How Google got here — timeline
  1. 1998Founded. PageRank algorithm.
  2. 2000AdWords launches — the auction-based search ads that built the business.
  3. 2006Acquires YouTube for $1.65B (still arguably the best M&A deal in tech history).
  4. 2015Alphabet restructure. Google becomes a subsidiary.
  5. 2017"Attention is all you need" Transformer paper out of Google Brain. The technology that powers the current AI wave.
  6. 2022ChatGPT launches. Google declares "Code Red" internally.
  7. 2023Bard launches (later renamed Gemini). DOJ ad-tech case begins.
  8. 2024AI Overviews default to most US informational queries. Cloud goes operating-income positive every quarter.
  9. 2025Gemini 2.5 ships. Workspace and Search both integrate Gemini deeply.
## The big 2026 question: does AI Overviews threaten Google's business? Short answer: **not yet**. The AI Overviews business model is the same as Google Search — ads above and below the AI answer, plus eventual paid placement *inside* the AI answer (which Google has been testing since late 2024). Longer answer: the risk is that *queries with high commercial intent* shift to ChatGPT and Perplexity faster than Google can capture revenue inside the AI Overview surface. If that happens at scale, Google's per-query monetization drops. The 2026 data so far: Google's search-ad revenue is still growing year-over-year, but at a slower clip than 2022–2023. ## Bottom line Google still makes money the way it always has — selling intent. But the *intent surface* is fragmenting. Search ads are still ~57% of Alphabet's revenue, but Cloud, YouTube subscriptions, and the AI Overviews integration are all reshaping what the next decade looks like. For operators in 2026: the playbook is to be cited *inside* the AI Overview, not just ranked beneath it. > Related: [How Facebook makes money](/how-does-facebook-make-money/) · [How Netflix makes money](/how-netflix-makes-money/) · [GEO consulting →](/generative-engine-optimization-consultant/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Download Facebook Videos To Your Computer Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/ Published: 2022-03-10 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, Scripts, SEO TL;DR: Note that you should abide by Facebook’s terms and conditions and that this is just a tutorial for educational purposes only. Using FBdown.net (a bit easier) 3. ## Table of contents Ever wanted to **download a Facebook video to your computer** in May 2026? Here’s a quick and simple guide as to how to do it, without the need of downloading any random software. *Note that you should abide by [Facebook’s terms and conditions](https://www.facebook.com/terms.php) and that this is just a tutorial for educational purposes only.* I present you three ways: 1. Using ByClick Downloader 2. Using FBdown.net (a bit easier) 3. Using your browser (i.e. Chrome) As usual, if you find it useful drop a comment below and share it with a friend! ## **1\. How to download videos from Facebook using ByClickDownloader.com** A good option to download videos from Facebook is via [ByClick Downloader](https://www.byclickdownloader.com/?source=alejandrorioja&innerpage=article-how-to-download-facebook-videos) that helps you backup your videos from other platforms. ByClick downloader also lets you download private videos from Facebook. You can easily install it [here](https://www.byclickdownloader.com/?source=alejandrorioja&innerpage=article-how-to-download-facebook-videos). Here the steps to follow to download videos: - Open [ByClick Downloader](https://www.byclickdownloader.com/?source=alejandrorioja&innerpage=article-how-to-download-facebook-videos) - Enter with your web browser to the private Facebook video you wish to download. - Click on the small pop-up message that appears in the right-bottom corner of the screen. ![](/images/posts/inline/3504b16a-by-click-downloader-alejandro-rioja-3.png) - If the video is private – ByClick Downloader will ask for your Facebook credentials. Enter your Facebook credentials and click Download. ![](/images/posts/inline/2181a9cf-by-click-downloader.png) All downloads made in ByClickDownloader are stored in ‘My folder’ by default (c:\\users\\user name\\Music). On the video download line, you can see where the video is being downloaded. ## 2\. How to download videos from Facebook using FBdown.net 1. Go to the post with the video you want to download 2. Right click on the video and select **“Copy video URL at current time”**  ![download FB video to computer chrome](/images/posts/inline/a39b23fe-download-fb-video-to-computer-chrome.png) 3. Go to [FbDown.net](https://www.fbdown.net/) 4. Paste your link there and select the quality of download you need ![FBdown net video downloader](/images/posts/inline/ade80177-fbdown-net-video-downloader.png) 5. Finally, right click on that video and hit **“Save video as” ![save videos from Facebook](/images/posts/inline/4950d8c4-save-videos-from-facebook.png) ** 6. Name your video something exciting, funny (or dumb), and hit enter. The Google Chrome instructions are very similar to the ones for Edge, Internet Explorer (you still using that?!), Opera and Firefox. If you’re having issues using FBDown, you can also try the [Facebook video downloader](https://fbdownloader.net), which supports the download of both public and private video with just your web-browser. In case you were curious, the video in this exercise is from one of the startups from my tech incubator in Bolivia, 6BLabs. The product is called OloTouch it allows you to convert any ordinary surface into a smart touch surface by using a projector. I highly encourage you to [check their beta video](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro/posts/294193494750055?__xts__=68.ARCsscmG-r0W7GSDc99hCVqst2IsrNc47mVynFvVflbC37Ijh3-Q55sInmLE8wfsjh-p4HRPTrhK4L22hWJrHIcQIk77YSGTbp0xVhKXhJBsfCozZREwA3we3nFz4sw3066zixHREHMrFOaDMpJ_JT2yQ3kg1zChE1FATm38t3MqYjRTHRhDEy5t2sgAvWdNXegh5ujBBzLUn1rRpnffQMOgErtXYoScff4J&__tn__=-R) as the founder plays with a wall. (They are raising a Seed round, hit me up [via Linkedin](https://linkedin.com/in/alerioja/) if interested). ## 3\. How to Download Facebook videos straight to your laptop without using any app or service (Note the following instructions are for Chrome but are very similar for other browsers) Here’s how to save those FB videos to your laptop or PC: 1. Go to the post with the video you want to download 2. Right click on the video and select **“Copy video URL at current time”**  ![download FB video to computer chrome](/images/posts/inline/a39b23fe-download-fb-video-to-computer-chrome.png) 3. Paste the url into your browser address bar, it should look something like this: https://**www**.facebook.com/…/videos/12345…9/ 4. Change the “www.” to “m.” i.e. https://**m**.facebook.com/…/videos/12345…9/ 5. Hit enter 6. Play the video 7. Now you will need to open up the Developer Console (Alt Option + Cmd + J) 8. Inspect the video element using the icon at the top left of the developer console (you can also toggle it by pressing Shift + Cmd + C ![FB video download chrome](/images/posts/inline/f82325cb-fb-video-download-chrome-1.png) 9. Click on the video and you’ll see the a box on the developer console. Copy the video url and paste it in another tab. Hit enter. 10. Finally, right click on that video and hit **“Save video as” ![save videos from Facebook](/images/posts/inline/4950d8c4-save-videos-from-facebook.png) ** 11. Name your video something exciting, sexy (or dumb), and hit enter. ## Still confused? Here’s a video that walks you through all the steps.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSY5TU-rHA8 ## Why would you need to download a video from Facebook? 1. Perhaps you lost access to the original file and want to publish that video on a different platform (like Youtube or Vimeo) 2. You made a FB livestream and want to download the video 3. and more! #### Here are other (FB) tricks you might enjoy: - [how to invite all your FB friends to your page, event](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) - [Cancel all your pending friend requests on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-cancel-all-pending-friend-requests-on-facebook/) - You might have noticed some random plugins I had on my screenshots, here are a few of [my favorite SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools). - [Unlock your productivity beast mode](https://futuresharks.com/how-to-be-productive/) Let me know in the comments if the tutorial worked and also let me know which other tutorials you want me to do next! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A few things have shifted since this post first went up. **Meta dropped the legacy "Page" verification track in 2024** and folded it into **Meta Verified** ($14.99–$19.99/mo depending on tier and country) — the blue check is now a subscription, not a one-time review. Friend-request flows still work as described, though Meta moved the bulk-cancel UI deeper into mobile settings; the desktop `m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing` route still works (2026-04 spot check). Worth knowing in 2026: ~3.07B Facebook MAU (Meta Q4 2025 earnings), but the share of *time-on-platform* relative to Reels and WhatsApp has continued sliding. If this post is part of an outreach strategy, weight WhatsApp and Threads (yes — Threads survived the 2024 pivot speculation and crossed 200M MAU) accordingly. --- ## 4 Easy Steps to Get YOUR Website To The Top of Google in 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google/ Published: 2022-03-09 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO TL;DR: This is the process of taking advantage of (mainly) Google’s algorithms to get your website to the top page of the world’s largest search engine. ## Table of contents If you run a website or [blog like me](https://alejandrorioja.com/), by now you’ll be familiar with the term [SEO – Search Engine Optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo). This is the process of taking advantage of (mainly) Google’s algorithms to get your website to the top page of the world’s largest search engine. Anyone who is interested in getting their site to the top of the Google search page (and you should be) will be constantly looking for new ways to increase their search engine visibility. This is necessary so that people can find your business when they search for your relevant keywords. Otherwise, your site is lost in the vast sea of the internet, and online customers will be unlikely to ever stumble upon your services. That’s why businesses now spend hundreds, if not thousands, on digital marketing and SEO strategies. But – there are some simple steps you can do yourself, for free, to get you started. Here are some more [advanced SEO tricks](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/) too. SEO is complicated at first, and can be an added headache on top of the daily running of your business. In this article we’ll share some easy ways to improve your SEO, and point you in the right direction of great websites and services that can help you out. Let’s start! ## **1\. Use an SEO Hosting Company** If you have no clue where to begin with SEO, have no fear! There are services out there that can handle things for you, and answer your questions about how to understand SEO yourself. Check out these [SEO hosting reviews](http://seohostingreviewed.com/) for a great guide that explains in simple terms which host you should go for and what features they offer. But what do SEO hosts do, exactly? Basically, they set up an affiliate blog network for you, which will drive online traffic to your site. The more affiliate networks you have (links to your site from other sites), the more authority your site commands in Google’s terms – which equals higher search engine ranking. ## **2\. Write High Quality Content** The copy on your website needs to be top-notch. Read it objectively: does your site make YOU want to buy your products or services? Is the grammar perfect? If you’re not sure about the efficacy of your copywriting, hire a [digital marketing company](http://flux.la) to craft some amazing copy for you. Alongside this, you need keywords on your site. How else are Google searchers going to find you? Say you run a gardening business. You want potential customers to find your site at the top of Google when they search for ‘Gardeners in (Your Town)’. To do this, you’ll need to understand: - **Keyword research** – find out how many people search for your desired keywords using Google Adwords. It’s a paid service but offers transparent advice about which keywords you should go for. You can also use SEMRush or Ahrefs. - **Keyword density** – Google penalizes websites that use keywords too densely. Try to keep it less than 2% of your entire page content. - **Positioning** – keywords are most effective when they’re used in page headers, subheadings, and included in the first and last sentences on your page. - **URL** – make sure your keyword is in the URL of all your pages. ## **3\. Boost Your Social Signals** Every time the link to your website is shared on social media, Google recognizes this. It thinks that people are talking about your site, adding authority and relevance. Increasing your site’s social signals is a good way to work towards higher rankings. Ensure you have social media pages for your business on all the popular networks (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn, at least) and that you post regularly on each one, perhaps once per day. Post business updates, photos of new products, and always reply to comments. Encourage people to share these. Easy ways to increase your social signals: - Ask friends and family to post about your business! - Offer rewards to those who follow your page, and like and share your posts - Consider working hard on your YouTube channel – people love watching videos and will frequently share ones they like. If you can make a viral video, even better! - Work with [influencers](https://futuresharks.com/) (aka people with large followings, like [Young Slacker](http://youngslacker.com)) ## 4\. Reduce your bounce rate Why does it even matter? If people do not stay on your site longer, its a bad news for google ranking because and a sign for Google to push your rank back. A great way to reduce bounce rate is to sync your content with search intent. If you are giving readers what they want, it’s highly unlikely they will bounce back to the search results. You can begin by improving your site’s [above the fold area](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Above_the_fold). Feature your best and most consumed content to the top to give your readers what they look for on your site. For instance, on my website, I have plugged in my [best SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) to the top because this is an area where my readers are looking for expert advice and guide. Also, make sure your content structure is user friendly so that the navigation experience for your users is hasslesome! ## What are the top Search Engines in the world? - Google - Bing - Yahoo ## Wrapping up! These are just some simple ideas to get you started in understanding SEO. They are also only ways that we KNOW contribute to Google’s ranking algorithms. There are hundreds more methods Google uses to determine which websites people like, but these are kept secret. See how many ways to trick the algorithms you can discover. Read more: - My best [SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [How to boost your website traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-increase-website-traffic/) - A collection of [best marketing guides](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## 👻 How to Get More Snapchat Followers and Make Money 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/ Published: 2022-03-09 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, Marketing, SEO, Social Media Marketing, marketing, snapchat TL;DR: Following are the best lessons I’ve learned while growing my own Snapchat (102k followers and counting!) on my @youngslacker account (add me on IG too) and how I manage to sell products, services and shoutouts on Snapchat every month. ## Table of contents Snap seems to be making a come-back. It’s stock has [soared lately](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/), and they have added a ton of Instagram and Tik Tok-like functionality. It’s time for you to **go viral on Snapchat**. With a snap, you have people’s undivided attention for 10 seconds at the time. People *tune in* for *your **story**,* they want to hear what you have to say. > As a [Snapchat influencer](http://youngslacker.com), you have to make it count and make sure it is something that is worthwhile to watch. Following are the best lessons I’ve learned while growing my own Snapchat (102k followers and counting!) on my [@youngslacker](http://youngslacker.com) account ([add me on IG](https://www.instagram.com/youngslacker/) too) and how I manage to sell products, services and shoutouts on Snapchat every month.  This guide will teach you **how to monetize your Snapchat** **account** and also [**how to get more followers on Snapchat**](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/). *Coming soon: A guide to go viral on TikTok (let me know in the comments if you want it early)* I’ve also added tips from some of the world’s largest Snapchat influencers. [Add me on Snap 👻](https://snapchat.com/add/youngslacker) *(*[*Young Slacker*](http://youngslacker.com/) *is my rapper account)* So, how can you grow your Snapchat account? Read below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fzo5nE1E\_I *Related: Looking to see [how Snapchat monetizes its users](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/)?*  ## **Grow your Snapchat followers ‘in a Snap’ with these 7 fast tips** *(Yes, pun intended)* You might have the best product in the world, but if you are not able to get people excited about it, [no sale will ever take place](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything). Same deal for your content: **Content is not valuable unless it reaches a lot of people**. Therefore, it is imperative for you to grow your (Snapchat) follower count if you want to monetize your account. Here are the best tips I found: 1. Tell your friends and contacts to add you on Snapchat - They are the easiest way to get feedback on your product and marketing and will probably have something relevant to contribute to your snapchat channel early on. If they like what they see, rest assured that they will tell their friends.  2. [Add your snapchat username to this subReddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/snapchat/): (r/snapchat) - Although you will get a lot of random followers, it will help with the initial momentum. - Make sure you interact with the people that add you or else, they will delete you. 3. Promote your account on other social media platforms - The truth is, very few people will discover you on snapchat. They will probably hear from you first via [Instagram](https://flux.la/how-to-get-thousands-of-instagram-followers/), Twitter or Facebook, so make sure you periodically remind them to **follow you on Snapchat**. You already have friends and followers on those other platforms, so try to convert them. Make it as easy as possible and have a compelling reason for them to follow you on Snapchat (like discount codes, exclusive content, backstage footage, etc). 4. **Get discovered on [Ghost Codes](http://www.ghostcodes.com/). Give kudos to receive kudos.**  5. Do a Story Takeover on big accounts (like @shopify, if you’re an [ecommerce entrepreneur](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) or @TFMOfficial, if you are a female model) 6. Drop your snapcode everywhere. - Post your username on discussion forums relevant to your niche. - After each blog post, have an about section where you include your snap code. - Put it on your email signatures and business cards. - If you are building a brand’s snapchat account add it on fliers, printed media, on your website, etc. - Ask your Instagram, Facebook and Twitter followers (many times) to also follow you on Snapchat. 7. Be consistent. I post raps every day, so people that tune in know what to expect. Consistency and showing up every day beats anything else when it comes social media. Ask any [influencer](https://futuresharks.com/category/news/) if you don’t believe me. ## 11 More advanced techniques to increase your Snapchat views 1. [**(MAJOR KEY ALERT)**](https://www.instagram.com/djkhaled/?hl=en) Leverage other social media influencers and brands - Get a snapchat promo or shoutout from people with *strong followings* and work with brands that will promote your username on their own accounts. 2. Ask your followers to share your code/snap. On a snap story if you tap and hold you will be able to forward that story to someone else. Encourage your followers to do this. 3. ? Get a blue arrow ↪ shoutout from your followers. - A blue arrow is the following - A user goes to the chat page - Holds down on your name - Taps on the blue arrow at the bottom right - and sends your username to all his friends (manually) - This sends your username alongside and easy “add” button. This way you can get a lot of followers. 4. ?Create a shoutouts Snap group with other people who have big followings and do an “SFS” (shoutout-for-shoutout). 5. **(ANOTHER ONE)** Create a Facebook Ad with your [snapcode](https://support.snapchat.com/en-US/ca/snapcode) and a relevant snap and promote that to your target audience. On Facebook, you can select the demographic you wish to target. The cost per new snapchat follower will be about $1-3 but they will probably be worth more in the long run. Pro tip: You can get lower costs if you target people in Egypt, India, and other parts of Asia.  6. **(THEY DON’T WANT YOU TO GET FOLLOWERS)** Post to your local snap story and event-related story. You probably won’t be able to add your username to your story if you want it to have it featured, but at least you start getting some exposure and people start recognizing you. Later you can boost a post on Facebook targeting people in your area. 7. Become an influencer on another platform first. You might find success with [Youtube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) or [Instagram marketing](https://flux.la/how-to-get-thousands-of-instagram-followers/). 8. I see a lot of people gaining big followings by posting memes, funny videos or adult content. If this is what you are into, then by all means go for it. 9. Run a competition. Have something exciting that people can win by simply following you and engaging with your story. You can ask fans to send you a picture or video doing something fun or mentioning your brand. 10. Lastly, just make awesome content. No one wants to follow someone that simply posts a story of what time it is. (Yes, I am talking to you). 11. Another option if you want to skip the hassle of having to grow your account altogether is to simply [buy a Snapchat account](https://www.playerup.com/accounts/snapchataccount/). A solid alternative if you just can’t seem to get your views up. ## **To get more Snap followers, nurture your current ones with great content that they will want to share** ![funny snapchat](/images/posts/inline/f214e7ce-funny-snapchat-300x261.jpg) Great, you should now have a decent following (~200-500 people). **Here’s how you can get your next 1000 Snapchat followers.**  You have to make sure that they are engaged and interact with your story. Snapstar [Tristan Tales](https://twitter.com/tristantales) recommends creating “tales” or stories that have a plot to them. > **“Make it fun, engaging, and attractive.” – Tristan Tales** The stories should have a clear start where you set the stage, a middle where the resolution to the problem or joke is delivered and an end where you wrap it up or do something unexpected. The point is to keep people curious and prevent them from jumping to the next story. You want to create stories that are memorable and that people will look forward to watching.  > **“If people aren’t screenshotting and commenting on your story, you need to step up your game.” – Young Slacker** **(MAJOR KEY ALERT) Pro Tip:** *Interact with your audience***:** ask them questions, make a compilation of their best responses and post that to Facebook or to your own Snap story. Add text or change locations to incite curiosity.  **(Anotha one) Pro Tip:** *Let anyone contact you***:** charge your settings so that people are able to follow your stories and contact you without necessarily being friends with you. You can always change it back if you don’t like it.  **(And one last one)** Use snaplytics.io to track how your campaigns are doing, what the completion rate is, estimated number of followers and so on. Update: Big accounts now also have access to Snap Insights directly from the Snap app. **(Ok, one more trick)** You can start a Geo-story and have people around you join you for an event, party, celebration. Then you can DM the people that contributed to the story and add each other. #### Need some inspiration for your snaps? [Tune To My Daily Story 👻](https://snapchat.com/add/youngslacker) ## How does the new Snapchat update affect you? The new Snap update makes it a bit tougher to get views and simply posting a lot of content throughout the day will not be enough to stay on the top of your followers; Snapchat feeds. That means you now also should aim to interact with your followers more. The more you interact the higher you will appear on their chat feeds. You should also make all your stories public and geolocated to increase the chances that people near you find you. (In case you were wondering, I’m not a big fan of the update just like [many other millions of people](https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/science-technology/918887/SnapChat-Update-Petition-Old-Design-Revert-Rainbow-Font-UK).) ## **8 Ways to Make Money Off Snapchat** When the time to finally reap all the hard work that you have put into nurturing your audience comes, you need to be effective and clever. Don’t share a 2-minute pitch on Product X that you’ve rehearsed over and over. Share something short and spontaneous. **People love the unfiltered, unedited, raw content that snapchat provides**. If they were looking for something ultra-polished, they will go to other social media platforms. Here are a few ideas to monetize on the followers that you have: 1. [Sell snapchat shoutouts](https://www.fiverr.com/s2/dc83098bb3)  2. You can sell pictures. If you are a painter or a model you can use Snapchat to promote yourself and find people interested in your craft. - Most people will sell “premium content” this way. The most common use case is for adult content but it can also be used to invite people to your private coaching session, to a mastermind, etc. 3. Feature up and coming singers with a story that includes their song.  4. Become a social media celebrity and reap the benefits in the real world. If you do end up becoming an influencer, you can get invited to exclusive parties and get a chance to do major deals like Jake Paul and Logan Paul do. (Note, if these tips make you famous, please remember me and invite me to your mansion!) 5. **(MAJOR KEY ALERT)** Promote your own events and products using a discount code and direct people to a buying/sign-up page. For example, I promote my brand [Flux Chargers](https://www.linkedin.com/company/flux-ventures-llc) with short clips, teasers and promo codes; and it works very well. (Granted, the product pretty much sells itself being that it is the #1 [best portable charger](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers) in the world as reviewed by Digital Trends, Mashable and others).    - You can now create add a link to a webpage so definitely include that every time! 6. Team up with other brands (Coca-Cola, Nike, Doritos, Wendy’s) and do snapchat-like promotional clips. (Do them for free at first and start with smaller brands. If you want to promote my brand Flux, here is the [affiliate program](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/)). 7. Build a brand for yourself and sell your own merchandise. 8. Finally, sell your entire Snapchat account. Other questions people usually ask: ### What is a premium Snapchat? These are explicit Snapchat accounts that post adult content. People create an account and only allow you to watch their story if you are a paying member. They charge a fee via PayPal, Snapcash or Google Wallet. It’s probably the closest to an OnlyFans account. Anyone can create a premium Snapchat, but I’d encourage you to find other ways to make money online, such as freelancing on [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55). ### [**How does Snapchat make money?**](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) Just like all the other social media platforms: through advertising via Snap Ads, promoted content, etc. ### What to look for when you buy a Snapchat account? You should verify that the views are authentic. You should also try to get insights into the demographics of the followers. (If you are selling female clothing, it will not serve you to have 100k male gamers as followers). Lastly, ask about any previous sales the seller has made. Try to use an escrow account. ### How can you know your snapchat follower count? There isn’t a way to tell for sure but a good estimate starts with the number of views you get on a snap story over 24 hours. Now, since only about 2/3 Snapchat users log in on a daily basis, you can multiply the number of views you get by 1.5x. For instance if you get 1000 views, you can estimate your follower count to be around 1000-1500 people. **Will you have to pay for using Snapchat in the future?** No, as long as they keep putting out ads, you won’t have to pay a dime. **Is Snapchat dead?** Instagram Stories has certainly captured a big chunk of the efimeros pictures market but I still enjoy using Snapchat. It will be interesting to see if Snapchat can keep up (so far it’s seems to be dying). **What’s my favorite Snapchat filter?** The dog one (of course). **Want to see what I post on my Snap story and get some fresh ideas?** [Add me](http://youngslacker.com/addbp) and snap me to *let me know that you found me through this blog post and give me a request for a new story (I do mostly raps, entrepreneurial tips, etc)* ! I (try to) open all of the snaps I receive.  Since it is likely that Snapchat will just fade away, [add me on Instagram: @YoungSlacker](https://www.instagram.com/youngslacker/) and say hi! – So that’s all. Those are all my techniques to make money on snapchat and to get a ton of fans. If you found this post useful, share it with a friend! [![snapcode youngslacker](/images/posts/inline/2f736bc3-snapcode-youngslacker-287x300.png)](http://youngslacker.com/addbp) Have any other tips? What kind of content do YOU produce? How do YOU **make money off snapchat**? Have you given up on Snapchat and caved in to Instagram Stories? Let me know in the comments or simply send me a snap! Loved this article? You should also check out: - [Snapchat Revenue Data 2018](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) - [My best articles on social media marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) - [Why Instagram will crush Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) (aw Snap) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 Snapchat is smaller but still real in 2026: ~422M daily actives (Snap Q4 2025), heavily skewed toward 13–24. The "make money on Snapchat" answer evolved — **Spotlight** is now the primary creator-monetization surface (replaced Discover for most independents in 2024). Snapchat+ subscription ($3.99/mo) crossed 11M subscribers by early 2025; some creator perks gate behind it. Account unlock flows didn't change much; the temporary lock still resolves in 24–48h via Settings → Help. The "permanently locked" path now triggers an automated review via Snap's Support form within ~7 days — markedly faster than the manual-only process described in older guides. --- ## Concise and Comprehensive Google Ads Tutorial for 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/ Published: 2022-03-09 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Advertising (SEM), SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Assume that you, as a company owner, have an extra $10,000 on hand right now that you can use for anything. Spend the money on start-up investments that may not land you any advantages, 2. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Google Ads is a paid advertising service in which advertisers, like you, pay per ad click. Pay-per-click advertising is a sort of marketing channel in which you pay for results in the form of clicks. Google displays your ad to interested people in your product based on the search phrase. Advertisers bid on search keywords for which they want their ad to appear. The winning bid is displayed at the top of the SERP or on other relevant platforms, depending on the chosen ad campaign. Far too often I have seen company owners, after making some money, use that money for investments. And sure, investing in angel vestures, index funds, or real estate is something beneficial in itself.  But I can’t entirely agree with them. Imagine owning a company, delivering value, selling excellent products, and getting money in return, and what do they do?  They put their money on anything and everything, but NOT on their own business.  Why don’t they invest in things that benefit their business? Why don’t they find ways to sell more of their offerings?  Why don’t they focus on what they have and what is already working instead of going off dilly-dallying in a field they know virtually nothing about?  [Advertise](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-advertising/)! That’s the way!  > If you want to spend money on advertisements in hopes of it reaching your intended targets, then you better make sure you invest it in the right places. Being wrong with your approach to digital marketing means [millions of losses](https://www.cnbc.com/2017/03/15/businesses-could-lose-164-billion-to-online-advert-fraud-in-2017.html) for you.  There is a way of doing this but in today’s internet-driven world, Google AdWords is commonly the way to go about marketing digitally. Google processes an average of [over 40,000 queries each second](https://www.internetlivestats.com/google-search-statistics/), numbering to a whopping 3.5 billion a day and 1.2 trillion per year.  ![](/images/posts/inline/8e0fbcaa-google-searches-per-year.jpg) And as you can see here, the number steadily rose from 1999 to 2012. Expect the trend to continue as long as the internet is here.  I mean, think about this. Assume that you, as a company owner, have an extra $10,000 on hand right now that you can use for anything. Would you rather:  1. Spend the money on [start-up investments](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) that may not land you any advantages,  2. Try to snag a deal for a cheap building or condo unit, then sell them, not knowing if it will be bought or not, or 3. Spend the money learning about AdWords or hiring a professional, and then launching a Google AdWords campaign that will surely generate returns.  If I were the owner, I would choose the third option. It is a sure opportunity to double, maybe even triple my investment, so the choice is a no brainer.  As highlighted above, there are billions of searches happening on Google daily. What if you could capture even a small part of those billions?  Imagine the number of people who are potential clients, interested in what you are selling and proposing, and are ready to purchase from you. You might be thinking that it must be so complicated to do that, and you would be better off not doing it because the difficulty offsets the benefits.  Well, as it turns out, it is not \*that\* hard; you only need to follow a set of steps. This Google AdWords Tutorial will outline just that.  I will show you the steps taken to create an effective Google AdWords campaign to increase visitors and sales. ## About Google AdWords/Google Ads SEO is in every content manager’s arsenal and is almost always the first place to look toward when you begin growing a new site. It is powerful, scalable, and almost always pays its dividends in the long-term.  It is the strategy that I will recommend nine times out of 10, except for one thing. When you need immediate results, then SEO is not the thing to do.  Content optimized with SEO is surely effective over the long-term. AdWords is the opposite.  You can get the AdWords set up within an hour or two, and doing it right will let you generate sales as soon as the ads are up and running. Also, Google AdWords is just as powerful as a traffic-driving tool.  Google’s statistics cite that [89%](https://ai.googleblog.com/2011/07/studies-show-search-ads-drive-89.html) of traffic driven through search ads is not replaced by organic searches and that for every $1 spent on Google AdWords, businesses generate [$2](https://economicimpact.google.com/methodology/) on revenue.  Relevant: [Learn about the best SEO tools here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ### Google AdWords vs. Google Ads ![](/images/posts/inline/2ecb7ce1-google-adwords-3.jpg) Summer 2018 saw the change of Google AdWords when Google decided to rename the platform to Google Ads. The new name implies that its tool features more than just text ad campaigns.  The whole Google Ads platform aims to help a user advertise their offering not only through text but also through other media, such as display ads and even youtube video integrations.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/M87ohejdoOwU_9V933Dsw7z6VaqjlWs9j1DfLecynCsv8f9aKGpOYTEeJhzTevAqpvHjAGoBZzaDzyC4ZnaGXAvmkc9WbmEa5PTLdsvvqDklZaSne8nKGC_r7Lh9pTRnYF87FSav) ![](/images/posts/inline/06419bf0-google-ads-1024x504.png) ![](/images/posts/inline/f1a117b8-google-adwords-1.jpg) ![](/images/posts/inline/02a5108b-google-adwords.jpg) Many people are familiar with “Google AdWords,” but the name is effectively non-existing today. From here on out, the article will now use “Google Ads.”  ### What is Google Ads? [Digital marketers](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) know that a focused paid ad campaign generates more clicks and a higher number of potential customers. Google Ads has become a popular marketing scheme because of this exact reason.  Google Ads is a paid advertising platform where the advertiser (that is you) pays per click impression on an ad. This type of marketing channel is known as pay-per-click advertising, where you pay for results in the form of clicks and not only for being seen as with traditional advertising channels.  No clicks? You do not need to pay.  It is as simple as that, and this performance-based setup has captured the interest of many, seeing as [over a million businesses](https://www.slideshare.net/WishpondTechnologiesLtd/21-random-stats-and-facts-about-google-ad-words) use paid Google Ad campaigns.  With Google Ads, a company can boost the traffic of its site, receive more phone contacts, and increase physical store visitors.  ### How does Google Ads Work?  Google Ads is somewhere you can pay to have your site ranked at the top of a SERP, based on keywords.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IfIooNVj-Lus8k25eokOylg6WWmqCb-x1fUZ3bT2xY_02Z0TkycZmWYJ2-GZj3N3ONrzfEUB3LJzS8dnfFb77HEk-djo895v5zqjqMNThwXHfad5ysqej19OrYDgnHhjsvwGS9XJ) You can think of the Google Ads system kind of like an auction with modifications. First, you would choose search terms where you would like the ad to appear on, and set a maximum bid price of how much you are willing to pay when someone clicks on the site.  The amount of the bid, when compared to other bidders in the same term, is a factor in how high up the Google SERP your ad appears.  Google has a bias to well-known brands, and unless you are that, then it will be quite tough to outrank the big players in the rankings. In a way, Google Ads lets you circumvent that.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8XtAUydCU_SD7nYGCbKzK02eq2czYAuPon5ku3s5h1dXnZAteajj_ilQ7ztkHT-IwLBKnyOq8yUrn0td2R8goKKIkFl9X3c-iTReIQOjsOfYazyTGfsVumSbNVsxihUyXKOYb4FF) In this “pizza delivery” SERP, ‘Grubhub’ was able to take the top spot over the well-known brand Domino’s. Even ‘Racca’s Pizzeria,’ who I honestly have not heard anything about, was able to trail close behind Domino.  Even smaller players in the niche can compete with big brands with Google Ads, and all it took were minutes or hours of setting up, as opposed to months or even years with SEO + content.  In many auctions, though, the highest bidder wins, and everyone else loses and moves on to the next item. In Google Ads, however, ad bidding is discreet, and the highest bidder is not always the highest-ranked.  Google combines the money you bid with the quality you give. They do this to create the best overall experience for the user.  Your quality score given by Google is a mix of how well the landing page of your site matches the search term and keywords and how well you can deliver on what the user needs. The more relevant the ad and landing page is to the search criteria, the higher your quality score.  In some cases, if your quality score is high enough for a specific search term, then Google may not even charge you the full bid, and you will be able to pay less per click.  So the equation is: Solid bid + quality page and ad = high-ranking ads.  So to sum it up, Google shows your ad to the customers who are interested in your offering, as indicated by the search term. Advertisers bid on search terms they want the ad to be associated with, and the bid who wins are placed on the top of the SERP, or other relevant platforms such as Youtube videos, depending on the ad campaign type selected.  [Also read my review of WhatsMySERP which is a free SEO rank tracker](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/) ## Google Ads Terms to Know These common terms related to Google Ads will help you start and manage an ad campaign. Some are specific to Google Ads, while some are related to PPC as a whole, but you need to familiarize yourself with these terms because you may commonly encounter them in your ad campaign.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/i-Y3wjcGOFX9TamUicjO0nKvwtiis_RoIuUHDfHY3EfCa90Px5QouaMQ-XH5IY1xGCEF2Cihjm3n4h_b3vfb3yukSccYEumv4oBPK3OrjtLlLJ4RS7W5Yc3AsJctToCkI5c53ixo) ### AdRank The Ad Rank is a value computed by Google, which is used to determine the placement of your ad. The higher the value, the higher your ad will rank.  Google uses many different factors in assessing your Ad Rank, but two of the main ones include your maximum bid, and the Quality Score based on their findings.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/NyN2_8SjyZDrtgDsfjH0I3YQiaizcw41qltNMuj7yW8n9IYnaZDNswOoZOaPyfJxUrYOaw54njVVQ5HqbxE5fjYuG75O-OxoPa-AyDMXNZyAMB7x0bfphEuJW1dXNyIYmevGHlnk) ### Bidding  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/y9cnTG8CXrYYBXLpUf2k40v4RGsl4R89VMFSu1J-OEk-bQVW9AGoAq-JWpMLjvF76iTzuh0mI_iYBDcmCE2cXI_ffmAjf3oTBmdrYxAdUdiY2yxf3WadFpsiszwL-U1PHiPfWWls) Google Ads works on a bidding system where an advertiser sets a maximum amount they are willing to pay per click on your ad. There are three bidding options: CPC, CPM, or CPE.  - **CPC**, or cost per click, is the amount you pay for each click on the ad. - **CPM**, or cost per mille, is the amount you pay when your ad is shown to a thousand people.  - **CPE**, or cost per engagement, is the amount you pay when someone takes action, usually predetermined, through your ad.  ### Campaign Type A paid campaign on Google Ads lets you select between five types.  ![](/images/posts/inline/9bbda26d-adword-campaigns-1024x744.png) - A search network ad is displayed at the top of the results page of a search query.  - A display ad is normally image-based and is shown on Google Display Network pages.  - A shopping campaign ad aims to promote online and local inventory. In contrast to a text ad, they contain other information such as the name of the product, its photo, store name, reviews, and more.   - A video campaign ad is shown on YouTube and is anywhere between six to fifteen seconds long.  - An app campaign ad will let Google use your app’s assets to design ads across several networks and formats to promote your app.  ### Click-Through Rate (CTR) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OnihotMJrmJTVN6BKdqsQP-wwcH6sAK5U9y1GCXq8ux8cJ9I5XxgipODMOwTpzBxRALfJBPqqzCxvqqF4KT7feykCIpTlvH7pFpwIU7HR9ObT69YI3qa8WPTwbuJ1YzGxzjQWWYp) Your site’s CTR is the number of clicks your ad placement gets in relation to the number of views it generates. A high CTR figure indicates a quality ad that targets [critical keywords and matches](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) with user search intent.  ### Conversion Rate (CVR) ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Kx5ztiTcgyyK5z573k9iWznkjWLhuMbs2Naw2Avg7HyAtlcVOA8Dtfg4sx1ns7IYbpw3pfDQtMVm0hhm0W7qzLThua00KTcEFff9TF83u7k2A1kSVmYOn2-0PHaF3mDFiurS-FN2) The CVR is a metric that shows the proportion of form submissions to the total visits to your website’s landing page. A high CVR figure means that the landing page matches the ad and its promise and that the site matches with the user’s intent.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/c9zdX5_h82Vx5bqBioQmzpDKHiHxnBcJc6-IoFbads3UtbjtNE9-IGrkYs3rWIAtCzlOjAZHmagLPsY0MOUYtze5W_S6fULd9L141W_cu-J4-b7MjUn5t7-To0xIPLeMB1rSzT9q) ### Display Network Google ads can be displayed within a web page included in the Google Display Network (GDN). The GDN is a collection of websites that allow spaces on their pages for Google ads, such as pictured above.  They can either be text- or image-based, displayed with relevant content from the keywords you entered, and are most often used for shopping and app ads.  ### Extensions ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FZS1XxLeB0o4zE0kRqWfVjeTZV4FfUeCbnHrtc7-5ZaPGVMNgIBIUDggo6Jdl-2zLWp62IYnjw8eYQHzFOSPYsvF78mcfMxbSVjXIZUDaxgh0sh5296OxLXLw4WpjicUq4pDQX32) Ad extensions supplement your ad with additional information, at no cost. They fall under one of the five categories: sitelink, call, offer, location, or app.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/S-syMgb47_UHR4SNvvq223icwS6VKNP8QAwCmc0VBn_mC8QbMODTNGdNGx-pU9TdVRid_1wftwgyPnXfIShqmBUJzPyMACqbRTZmilhZPnGuCYdAg2eLhER-fXgm7OUzp7wGaxcs) ### Keywords  ![](/images/posts/inline/0f24ad0e-keywords-1024x594.png) Keywords are the words or phrases that align with the user’s intent and will answer what they are searching for. In Google Ads, you select keywords dependent on the queries you want the ad to appear alongside.   ### PPC PPC, or pay-per-click, is a concept digital marketers are well acquainted with. It is not specific to Google Ads, and it is the most common type of paid search engine marketing.  In a PPC scheme, an advertiser pays per click on an ad. You will have to be familiar with the ins and outs of this performance-based approach when launching a Google Ads campaign.  ## Why Go With Google? Why advertise on Google? Simple.  In case you don’t know, Google is the [most popular site](https://www.alexa.com/topsites) in the world, with a [larger than half market share](https://netmarketshare.com/search-engine-market-share.aspx?options=%7B%22filter%22%3A%7B%22%24and%22%3A%5B%7B%22deviceType%22%3A%7B%22%24in%22%3A%5B%22Desktop%2Flaptop%22%5D%7D%7D%5D%7D%2C%22dateLabel%22%3A%22Trend%22%2C%22attributes%22%3A%22share%22%2C%22group%22%3A%22searchEngine%22%2C%22sort%22%3A%7B%22share%22%3A-1%7D%2C%22id%22%3A%22searchEnginesDesktop%22%2C%22dateInterval%22%3A%22Monthly%22%2C%22dateStart%22%3A%222019-02%22%2C%22dateEnd%22%3A%222020-01%22%2C%22segments%22%3A%22-1000%22%7D) in the search engine industry. That alone warrants advertising on this platform; more eyes will see your advertisement.  Also, the Google Ads platform has been operating for decades. This length of time gives them a sort of seniority and expertise in the area of paid search engine marketing.   Another reason? Well, with the prevalence of this platform, your competitors are probably using it as well.  Thousands, maybe even millions, of businesses use Google Ads. Now, even if your organic rankings for a search term are perfectly fine, you are still being pushed down the list because of competitors who use paid ads.  And in the world of SEM, a few spots of decrease may mean thousands of dollars of lost revenue.  Google Ads and PPC should be a part of your paid strategy, and more often than not, there’s just no way around it.  ## Get Started So now that you have at least a little knowledge on Google Ads let’s get down to the nitty-gritty bits of this post. I will now cover a bit more in-depth look at how to set up and run a Google Ad campaign. ### Create an Account  To start it all off, you need to create a Google Ads account. You can register with Google Ads [here.](https://ads.google.com/home/)  The setting up of your account is pretty straightforward; follow the guided instructions on the screen. You will have to provide an email address, your time zone, country, and currency.  The most important of all, though, is the website where your ads will send users to. There are some more extensions and options which may require a bit of thought.  If you want and are eligible for the service, then you may take advantage of Google’s customer support.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/E84Td8zaYKRalEtuEvGuxUDTLDdAoVsbIxp7sPlyl-DR1TW3jmUOV1xETB-5OivHOSODZPuyLTheEmChNKkPgjOxcfoBiK4AOcLO4QAwJmYF8AkxotGdKw7Pqcm_-PmGfy7BImpC) Note that you will also need a website (a website with landing pages is preferable), keywords, ad copies, and headlines. It is better if these are prepared beforehand, so the setting up of your ad campaign will be smooth.  The next page of the account setup process is a critical part. The page is separated into four sections: 1. Decide the daily budget. 2. Choose a target audience. 3. Set the bid.  4. Write the ad. Deciding how much to spend is pretty straightforward, but I recommend a price between $5 to $10 per day. The amount is well below the industry benchmark, but it is enough to test the waters and get yourself acquainted with the system. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/R9nuLJda-qhtQkJWDAqIfybHY6HO0ugLhyWHDGX23eRNI2jb7era7d0_A06_P6gGV6yi92a04kEYbSr8BSydKVaG05oONaRXza5haHc4GXdnLLwJAu8QAfcg9aVmp9MBQHVNpKTN) Now, you choose a target audience. I recommend picking only one country since it is a customary practice to separate campaigns by nation. ![](/images/posts/inline/f764ff96-adwords-target-audience-4-1024x406-1.jpg) Also, you want to focus only on search ads. Untick boxes not relating to search ads.  Then, add keywords related to the industry of business. A number of 15-20 keywords are enough, and if you want to add, remove, or change keywords, then you can do so later.  Just enter what comes into your mind for now, or leave the ones Google recommends.  Next is to set your bid. If you are a beginner, I suggest leaving the setting as it is, because you don’t know how to play with this setting yet.  Finally, you can now write your ad for the campaign. You can add some dummy text; you can change them later when you know and decide how to go about writing your ad.  Once everything is in order, click the “Save and Continue” button.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/144lg3uz0oepjX52q-K280rgSkbeTBz0wvHlb4WF8k80QHH9137Ob6vBiHK55-Q_NdncDcRZ7jdjHZlA5T2k2DXCxidyTh3oJi3jee4VLlJkT4sObG8FfIWuarnzQxO6dYdFxwmr) You will then be asked to supply your payment information.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/86EJVfUhQ9KmDeD-irwGgnVXArDIXGVlvJ3HUCBNGWr3AKu3Zkep_3mlX79esaFzs30qp2riaIRUv7rQWCQiVhREBDbm-t4R13V-X-tgdfItRA8YLsmRD5UZK8zw2qi-tEvl6ERG) ### Keyword Research Keywords in reference to paid ads are essentially the words or phrases people enter as search queries in Google. If all is successful, your ad would appear on the top of the results page as a suggested solution.  The keyword research phase is crucial to any Google Ads campaign, so much that Google has a dedicated tool for it, the Google Keywords Planner. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/z59GD2WcJi7r7xMpjWBCaAI3vAqkfVncXRPjsqzQp5rOXAJgNQQamvu8Pcq3hyXmQE3bdu0AN5XtRTnJWra90eeZecJZNfMpAjnh4ekHVXcqachc4tQT1BoGctMxv0D_P1INv8v2) Try to come up with as many keywords related to your product as possible. After that, go to the keyword planner and add your keywords.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/bi81usBut7ZUodHPqIC9Qi2Enol-Ue5mj-tgSt7TXbQOZzKRa1zTfCnYv5gjRdFMIAJoPH6V_aFTgbi66Z5lHQOtaXX5BOYi9nXwkneNC7F1QIPjROpQIE6I4vIU5n-qjqO5e7aT) Leave everything as it is, then click the “Get Ideas” button. Two tabs will show, the “Ad Group Ideas” tab and the “Keyword Ideas” tab.  Now, you would want to click “Keyword Ideas”, then “Add All”, and then “Download.” ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gm5opqsKeNH0gDPfkCwfaUrWurPhIx47N1gxzR-Jf8WseXYEbrJQVd07ZyvLAbA0UuukKCp5URz6X_GcAyXxrbjYgEk2S2FNL6UVALgSf6nLdFBSwkTbOHWECkDQncL8AmvCnrOV) Clicking download will download the list in CSV form, or you can use the editor within the Google Ads tool.  Once you open the CSV file in Excel, you will see columns of monthly search volume and suggested bid amounts. The search volume column represents the demand for a keyword, and the suggested bid column shows how much other companies are paying per click. Just as with all things, you want moderation.  Choose keywords with not too low or too high a demand and CPC, and ideally, you would want at least 15 to 50 keywords, as too small a number can make the marketing effort too narrow, just as too many keywords can make it too complicated.  Relevant: [Make sure you check my guide on doing keyword research here if you are just starting in this field.](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/)  ### Define Your Budget Now that your account is set up and the keywords have been outlined, it is now time to know how much to spend per keyword. The “maximum CPC” metric will tell you this.  You need to know two things to get your maximum CPC: the conversion rate, and the gross profit you want.  For the sake of a sample formula, let us assume that we are aiming for a $50 net profit, a 1% conversion rate, and a 30% commission you will pay for Google. Multiply all of these figures to get a ballpark figure for your maximum CPC amount.  Maximum CPC = $50 x 1% x 30% = $0.15  This means that you can spend up to $0.15 per click on Google Ads. Now, you can scale the CPC up to know your daily budget.  If you get 50 clicks per day, that is $7.50 a day, and $75 for a 10-day campaign.  ### Write the Ad Getting the campaign set up is fine, keyword research is proper, and defining your budget is good, but your ads are what will genuinely lure people into your store. If your ad will not elicit in people the enthusiasm to click your store, then the campaign is useless.  A successful Google Ads campaign is enticing and relevant. Once you can grab their attention and they see that the ad is related to their search, then they will most likely click on your store.  - The headline allows 25 characters to grab the attention of a reader. Make them count.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BWlcULqIjfTAg6L-eeFa2KsbVecqkVgHYebMuB0xWPPxdXiiQQnzMDANXK2BAj1Aki1RTOPkHl43KFr9PVGm6GZlzNSmXfvMR969qA7Yv8ui8atWwEM_q6xvZvjt3IXC0NZEUn7h) The headline must be clear, relevant, and, most of all, grabs attention. The objective should be to make them read the next line or the whole thing  Keep in your mind actual search scenarios, and create headlines from there. It may be easier to use a catch-all umbrella term, but searchers rarely use generic terms. - The display URL must be relevant to the keyword, as this is where the users who click on your ad will be directed to. The display URL does not have to be the company’s landing page.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/avd3g941UPcXiZgYbaSm4bbYxakN8ixuOut7f8f8plu6_Ei6Hr3U6Ea3s3PBEVd3TSySjdZxWlez6AxMMeKdpZiodauUQilhRgGIMR6MDhYIPHCAgNt_GU60_kyGBerQNQAdz5OI) It is a good practice to match the domains of the actual destination page and the display URL.  - The Ad Text allows for only up to 70 characters, or two lines of 35 each. Within this limited number, aim to show the most unique value proposition.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GnX9UF16zdDRB_70Yi3s8jtoCBF7OkQCy46tmKGgPUki4v_BG0PkuW1ZgX9m2fNY7OZ5UwlQVbk_cPaRLSdH9H4MDS-Xs2gU4Kr7yS18iZeIPQdUM5CJC5B3c98MGBp0sCl0pBxf) - The body of the ad is your one opportunity to make the reader understand what you offer. Anything deceptive or unclear will only cost you money because of high bounce rate visitors.  Upon the setting up of your account, be ready with different variations of your ad copy, since readers may have different intents in mind.  ### Choose or Create the Landing Page Of course, people who click on your ads have to see what you have to offer. If the page is irrelevant, confusing, or does not give value, then chances are they will not convert.  You do not want that to happen.  Here are some standard rules of thumb to follow when you want a landing page to convert your visitors.  1. Do not take them to your home page; take them directly to the product page.  2. Display your call to action prominently. For example, the “Add to Cart” or “Checkout” button should be distinguishable and recognizable.  3. A landing page should have a single, unified purpose and message. Design and fix your product pages so that it is already optimized for possible conversions of visitors.  ### Fix Some More Things If you followed these steps, then the majority of the work has been done. There needs to be a few finishing touches.  First off, you need to pick the correct match type for your chosen keywords. There are four types of these.  1. **Broad match** is the default option and is the best one for those who are just starting. As implied by the name, a broad match keyword type has the lowest CPC and the most extensive reach, but also tends to make ads quite irrelevant for lack of targeting.   2. **A modified broad match** lies in between the phrase and broad match. It affords the reach of a broad match but gives better control over who sees your ad by “locking” words in a phrase with a “+” sign parameter. 3. **A phrase match** is a fantastic option for category keywords as it affords better control with the restrictions in its variations.  4. **An exact match** has the highest CPC and narrowest reach out of the types. If a keyword has a high intent of purchase, then this option is a great way to promote your products. Another is not to put too many keywords for each ad group so that it won’t be too complex. Form ad groups with ten to twenty keywords each, and if you have, say, 50 keywords in your ad campaign, then try to separate them.  Furthermore, put a maximum CPC for each keyword. Go to the Ad Groups section and click on each ad group.  There you will see a list of keywords in that ad group. Find the column named “Max. CPC” and enter the amount you generated from your computations earlier.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_wGayx2c7breOEdbhhdTDE4cMw-433f-At8weLkbDgDPEFaikmc9veLMXEGEPQmzHr4raYpjrTEptQxTmS8YdmqXxk7o52TJRKbXZsXyJSPfdVSXukCJH_jjmj6y0fvNHedHHzxn) ### Launch the Campaign Now that everything has been mostly finished, then time to generate those clicks and get those conversions. And before you get worked up and start playing around with your settings, wait and get some data first, which depends on your [CPC bidding and daily budget](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/).  If you use a high daily budget, then you have to wait a short time, say a week, to check how your campaign is faring. A lower daily budget means that you may have to wait longer for data and results.  Whatever the case is, let the campaign run for a few thousand views and impressions, and until your keywords (or some of it) get at least ten clicks. After waiting for long enough, you should take a look at:  - Keywords with a high CPC relative to your maximum CPC, and generate more than ten clicks but have no conversions, and   - Ads that are seen by many (have lots of impressions), but have little to no CTR.  The first one means that the keyword is not that relevant to the search term, and the second one means that you either have an irrelevant ad, or it doesn’t answer the search query.  For the first scenario, you can test different match types or lower the CPC. For the second one,  Make your ad attractive by adjusting some text or the body by highlighting the unique value you offer.  ## Link To Google Analytics Connecting your Google Ads account to Google Analytics lets you measure the performance of the ad in detail, with metrics such as pages per session and bounce rate.   With Google Analytics, you can  - Log in to both Google Analytics and Ads with the same email address you use for both.  - Go to Google Ads to enable admin-level access. Click on the Tools and Settings tab and choose Account Access, and check if you have Admin level access. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/h0vJuf_JbKDuVYPctPSuBKpv7WLE9tKmEPFk8Kvl94UYfUtQmbysPCHX21lvJPae2DFYl92Uiq6A8kNzvBEehz-tYXXEF3-7xoZCqoFOTKGvZ_GlNl-l4NlieLLxIz1kZa0LZlNU) - For Google Analytics, you would need Edit permissions. Open Admin, and then Property User Management, and then you need to have read, edit, and analyze access.  - While still in Analytics, go back to the Admin tab and navigate to the Product Linking. Choose Google Ads Linking  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HDpeWgHJhqC7i7EbB_2M37SV8L6oJU54zazBn4aLKLPrJSp1FW_fAbSCH8GwJkozmlBGCtfLh_hXDZKCmwmu8R9jiIlE7_NXm84iQO4jcfmKA64FpbufrQ9X0i9VtPEMRAWE2uJa) - You will see your Google Ads account in the list. Tick the check box to link it.  - Name your account (with the Link Group Title option) and choose the data you will pull.   - Lastly, click “Link Account” to finish the process.  Linking to Google Analytics will allow you to:  1. Monitor ad and site performance through the Google Ads reports in Analytics  2. Import goals and ecommerce transactions into Google Ads  3. Import analytics metrics such as bounce rate and average duration per session  4. Receive opportunities for remarketing  5. Generate multi-channel funnels reports  Relevant: [Curious how google makes money? Learn here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) ## Advanced Concepts ### Ad Extensions Extensions are the optional features such as location, contact number, or appointment schedules. Basically, these options give your ad more options for users and searchers.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/O1YmMPx930nTmLcNllc9uj6bVoDEOTYoQCQklfI5L1LYOdrYvstXweiEoYrj5IrlmRDVkTtL-CuK8X5urfB32OhGiy4FuL9cU5h-mBpc1Mq0eg64mogjzb_oW7Y-L28UPhT4O5wk) You might have to pay an additional cost per click on an extension, along with the CPC for the ad. Additionally, you must meet a minimum Ad Rank before Google qualifies you for extensions. ### Dayparting ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ud-JsDD0dL3zjd7NYg2VeAdR11cqkPLrsthXvGY-9Dk97rR8eu71d8a3GnrlYPgHMH7FZNrPdD-oMpXomBdiuW4HuSEZZGV1m8GSEPGKY68Y54Z5VJ7qc4lk6BOcmB_c1SfxYw_X) When dayparting, you let the ad run during a particular time of the day. It could help target your customers better on the times it makes the most sense while also driving ad costs down.  You can find this in the Settings tab of Google Ads as an “ad schedule” or “custom schedule.” ### Remarketing  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3b6-BIyexaARNFfyLbNlSguqtOcgx6vu2DRRr-oMpzTntGApHXIYLZsXmmY1aYfIE__88Ns_Lgdj1-NoSUfQsdNQgTZjdV8cn-lnd3ABlm2xSZd29o8GaKYVYWPvwL-hHtMo-4Kh) A prospect enters your site and views a page on it, then leaves after. They move on to other websites, but the ad that they saw promoting a product on the previous page appears.  That is remarketing in action, as is shown by the photo above. You can set it up to appear on another site through the Display Network for display ads and the Search Network for text ads.  ### Dynamic Keywords ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Qjqaipj96tJ_enGMiS3IMj-tpVOpzHCej7xnf6fzIFrmrFmLsz33UTTdTLLofmBHxfHY-Q8dPI8Btswl-2-nTRty7cftigqfrcVlMpDcC_sAvoo3rB3hdwp-Wu9f8BXFr_28sA-N) The text in bold is a dynamic keyword. The ad is instantly customized to match the search terms of the user. You could apply dynamic keywords either in the ad body or headline.  ### Universal App Campaigns ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/M-mmdmO62AC_HPIbWv2Tm0es08OLcX1celjqJ5btrID51YN1_67vUmpAPrC8aBwyk46bmEpEvGzOloFXs9A0KCB2j6yAPFy5MGROTD43lk0PW4EGH5zuZ4uuLWYIVBwShUdnLgnt) If you are an app developer, then you will need a way to advertise across Google’s several properties, such as the search engine ang YouTube.  A Google Ads app campaign, in brief, is an automated campaign that will help drive app installation and in-app conversion actions (such as microtransactions). The app campaign will connect Google Play, Google Search, Google Display, and YouTube.  Google will ask you to submit your campaign objective, budget, and bid, and then provide some visual assets and an ad copy. Google Ads then automatically compile and prepare ads optimized for different networks, such as text, display, and video.   Google Ads automatically examines the best combinations of assets, copies, and networks, and prioritizes those in their advertising efforts.  And that is it! This post will let you create your first campaign for one of the most important and well-known e-commerce customer acquisitions.   Any beginner will surely find this post a bit technical and cumbersome. And I understand, we were all beginners at one point.   But keeping at it will let you create a campaign that will drive users to your platform. And as you go on and gather more experience, then all will become easier.  Want to learn more? Here are other digital marketing and e-commerce related articles.  - [Google RankBrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) - [Top Ecommerce Platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) - [Google Voice SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/) What part of Google Ads did you find troublesome? Share your thoughts below. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Netflix Uses Analytics Tools? An Overview 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-uses-analytics-tools/ Published: 2022-03-09 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business TL;DR: An understanding of the benefits of analytics and using it is what makes Netflix very popular today. Apart from Netflix, many companies use analytics and have attained the height of customer friendliness and satisfaction. ## Table of contents Like the customer service desk asks for feedback from clients and prospects to make improvements, web-based companies need analytics tools to reach their customers at the points they need to be met. I, for one as a blogger, make use of analytics tools in the form of cookies and data from the analytics tools and comment section to improve my content. Analytics helps me make informed customer-friendly decisions that help me retain my subscribers. Well, enough about me! > Netflix is a customer–based service, and to gain and retain subscribers, they need to properly harness the data and analytics tools available for their use.  In this article, I will give a simplified version of how Netflix uses Analytics and data to help the flow of business.  However, before we dive in, take a brief moment to watch this video for an understanding of what analytics does for Netflix. ## **Why Use Analytics Tools?**  A fact that no one can seem to hammer hard enough is the importance of analytics tools. For me, analytics tools help make a difference between detrimental decisions or valuable decisions.  If you have a web page or website, you are sure to have visitors and subscribers. They are meant to play a significant role in your decision-making process to keep them. Their opinions and preferences being factored in can make a visitor a subscriber and a subscriber a fan.   An understanding of the benefits of analytics and using it is what makes Netflix very popular today. Apart from Netflix, many companies use analytics and have attained the height of customer friendliness and satisfaction.  With the right analytics tool, you can gain the following benefits. Relevant: Read next how to add powerful and easy Google analytics in WooCommerce [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-add-easy-powerful-google-analytics-in-woocommerce/) ### **Know Your Best Performing Content** This factor is a no brainer! When you can track your [most viewed content](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/), you can make similar contents; you can use it as your advertisement, it can be the introduction to your page and more. With analytics tools, you can quickly know what content thrives the most without making long questionnaires. ### **You Can See How Your Visitors Find You** Site visitors always come from a wide variety of sources. Some come through adverts, affiliate links, subscriptions, and more.  Knowing clearly where your visitors come from can give you an idea of where to make more expenses and where to cut costs. You may ask, is that not the importance of feedback forms? I want you to think back to all the feedback forms you filled and thought about how stressful it was and gave a halfhearted reply.  With an analytics tool, you can simply see this data without the hassle of making long forms and making your subscribers or customers fill them up. ### **Analytics Helps you Know Who Your Visitors Are** The whole of society has a considerable variation of people. This variety means that the people visiting your web page may be from a whole different culture as you or a [different age demographic](https://flux.la/understanding-market-segmentation/). Sometimes, if you are lucky, you will get viewers from all demographics like Netflix. When that happens, you need to be cautious of their values, age range, sexual orientation e.t.c. Analytics helps Netflix to promote movie recommendations based on these factors and can help you also. With analytics tools, once your user accepts cookies, you can gain knowledge of the device they use and [optimize your site](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) for easier access on their device. ### **Track Conversions** Like Netflix, you can track conversions with your analytics tools and take action based on these conversions.  Conversion tracking helps you analyze how long users spend on a page, if or when they move forward if they leave, what attracted them in the first place, and more. This analysis helps Netflix to make recommendations of what next to play and what to license. For your business, it can be the difference between what content you post. There are many benefits of analytics tools, but we will save it for an article dedicated to the topic, let me know in the comments at the end of this article if you want to see that. ## **Netflix’s Analytics Tool: Big Data** ![](/images/posts/inline/ee3121c2-technological-device-with-netfilx-app_23-2147915501.jpg) Netflix is one of the most valued media companies worldwide due to its high customer retention rate. Also, it is no secret that Netflix originals get quite the attention. Although Netflix has never clearly stated that they use a sole analytics tool, I am sure they make good use of all the data available to them with big data technologies along with analytics to discover patterns with their customers. First of all, what is big data? Big data technology is a software-utility tool whose design allows it to analyze, extract, and process information from complex, large data sets that cannot be dealt with by traditional data processing software. In a nutshell, big data technologies organize big data. There are two major types of big data technologies: operational big data technologies and analytical big data technologies. Netflix uses Presto, Elasticsearch, and Apache Kafka. Relevant: Curious to know how Netflix makes money? Find out [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/) ## **How Netflix Uses Analytics** ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/lqyQmts4vSxNVnnV1giQj0JtXyV8ovYTbcloqxeCabJjAAHWaxHElAg6gHxa5BvKCOVM4taGOIE3ZF7x3PIC3stJfIy7IWJoZPy8GJV3biEXYHzXMXYvhdWg1xR_xkd3DI187-rX) Like other companies that use analytics, Netflix uses analytics to gain insights on their customer’s preferences to optimize the data for better product delivery. With analytics, Netflix can get quantitative data needed to make decisions that are informed and improve their services.  [According to the New York Times](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.nytimes.com/2020/04/21/business/media/netflix-q1-2020-earnings-nflx.amp.html), Netflix has up to 182.8 million subscribers around the world.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BdxJe50EJZtAhjG5_-sNafyuZcJ4YC8ePZkkGUXZXnJiPjrFtRSX0Ot9wXL1JG5MFvrjc5juZkFp8IzF1Wx-zO6QCDsC7ptiej4WUU7TtAJZMgLLVM5A3dthpymI4XsOuzeTWn57) These subscribers are distributed in 190 countries around every continent in the world. Having this large customer base raises the need to put up movies, and TV shows specific to each region to keep its customers happy. Due to their vast population of users, Netflix has access to a lot of data, and with this data, they can ensure their customers are satisfied in the long term. The most significant part of their data access is the fact that they are an internet-based company, so they have open hands-on access to information. An example of Netflix’s use of analytics is when you watch a series, they observe for how far each user goes with each tv show. They ask questions like: 1. How many users started an episode? 2. Did they all watch to the end? 3. For those who did not complete it, was there a common place where they stopped? 4. What did they watch next? 5. What was the time interval between watching each following episode?  Depending on the percentage per question, they will check if a TV show is worth continuing or not. However, more than this, Netflix takes track of the following “events”: 1. A user’s pauses, rewinds, and fast forwards 2. Your preferred  Netflix days–specific weekdays or weekends 3. The place (specifically the zip code), date and time you watch  4. What device you use for movies, series, for each account user— for kids, your regular account, and other profiles 5. When you pause and leave, if or when you come back 6. Searches, browsing, scrolling, and ratings 7. The movie’s sceneries  8. When credits start rolling and what you watch after that (this is why they automatically play the next episode for series or give recommendations of a movie) ### **The Algorithm For Recommendations** When registering for a Netflix account, you are asked to rate your interest in specific movie genres or movies you have seen. This information will help new users to see what they like, so Netflix can keep them watching Netflix for a long time. The main [PR move](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-pr-for-your-brand/) behind this algorithm is that once you can’t find a new show to watch, you are likely to cancel your subscription. So, Netflix needs to ensure the accuracy of their algorithms to avoid losing its users to other websites. Check here for a more [detailed description of the algorithms](https://netflixtechblog.com/netflix-recommendations-beyond-the-5-stars-part-1-55838468f429).  They also use a thumbs up or down rating system as opposed to the standard five-star rating system. The thumbs rating system started in April 2017 because their product team confirmed the simplified use of this system. Below is an example of a show of which Netflix got the rights based on the algorithm. #### **House of Cards** ![](/images/posts/inline/055defa1-houseofcards-finalseason-poster-frontpage-700x381-1-1200x720-1.jpg) Netflix earned the rights for the United States version of “House of Cards” in 2011. Some of the factors Netflix took into account when purchasing rights for the house of cards were: 1. Many users completed movies directed by David Fincher from beginning to end 2. The British version of “House of Cards” was well received 3. People that watched the British version also watched films directed by David Fincher and Kevin Spacey Movies. #### **The Green Light** These three factors, combined, had a large population of Netflix users. If not, “House of Cards” would have had a different home. Based on Steve Swasey, their VP of Corporate Communications, a show’s success is not based entirely on the cast members and directors, but also on consumer preference for a genre, cast members and stars, a director, and similar movies. Concerning the facts shared by Swasey, it was not a question of “If” they will invest but of “how much” they were willing to invest in “House of Cards.” They were willing to put one hundred million dollars into it. #### **After the Greenlight** After spending so many millions on “House of Cards,” Netflix became partly responsible for promoting the show. Being data and user-oriented, Netflix decided to make personalized trailers.  Usually, every show has several trailers, but not all interest you to watch the movie or show. What Netflix did was make a different version of the trailer for different audiences based on their viewing history. So, if you watch female themed movies, they will show you the parts where females were featured. If you like Kevin Spacey’s movies, you will see a trailer centered around him. The first season of “House of Cards” did not confirm its success but the path it was on. For every Tv show, there is a 35% chance it will succeed and a 75% chance that it would not.  When “House of Cards” was on Netflix, they had more subscribers and some that did not cancel their subscription because of it. ### **The Licensing Decision** As with streaming, Netflix does not merely pick any movie to license. Licensing a movie is expensive, and they cannot just license every newly released film. They also apply analytics to this decision based on how many customers view a show. This means that the more you watch a show you love, the more the likelihood of continuity and showing related content. A fascinating factor in their choice of movies to license is piracy site studies. ## **Other Major Companies That Use Analytics** ![](/images/posts/inline/fba78d2c-office-desktop-with-laptop-analytics_23-2148174089-1.jpg) Apart from Netflix, many companies are using analytics tools to improve their reach and earn customer satisfaction.  I am not excluded from the companies or sites that use analytics. The most popular analytics tool used by people who have web pages is [Google analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/). I also make use of Google analytics to improve my content. Some other major companies that use analytics tools include: 1. Uber 2. Airbnb 3. Google 4. Spotify 5. Microsoft 6. Intel 7. Barclays 8. Facebook 9. Dominos pizza 10. InFocus 11. LinkedIn 12. Twitter 13. Yahoo 14. Amazon 15. Oracle 16. Cisco 17. Bank of America 18. eBay  19. Verizon wireless 20. Paypal 21. Business Insider Unsurprisingly, the list goes on! The length of the list is majorly due to the vast benefits of analytics tools. ## **To conclude** Based on my article, you have seen that Netflix uses analytics to determine what to show, personalized movie trailers, what to recommend per screen, what to license, and much more.  For Netflix, analytics is a game-changer to keep customers happy and maintain their economic side. If you enjoyed this article, I would be happy to know in the comment section, and please share so that I can also utilize analytics to bring you the best content.  For more exciting articles on Analytics and Business, check out these articles: - [Review of Monster Insights](https://alejandrorioja.com/monsterinsights-review/)  - [What is a competitive advantage and why is it important?](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-competitive-advantage/) - [Top content marketing trends to boost your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 Netflix in 2026: **~301M paying subs** (Q4 2025), ~$39B annual revenue, ad-supported tier now accounts for **~45% of new sign-ups** in the US. The shift since this post: - **Password sharing crackdown** (rolled out globally through 2023–24) added an estimated **~22M net subscribers** above prior trend — single biggest growth pull of the last 5 years. - **Ad tier** ($7.99/mo US) reshaped the unit economics; CPMs hover around ~$25–35, comfortably above linear TV. - The "Netflix uses analytics tools" framing still holds — internally it's **Atlas** (their proprietary stack) plus heavier ML-driven thumbnail and trailer testing than ever. - Gaming and live (NFL games starting 2024 Christmas, WWE Raw from Jan 2025) are now meaningful product surface area. If the post compares Netflix to "competitors" — Disney+ Hotstar split, Max merged with Discovery+, Paramount+ and Showtime combined — the 2024–25 streamer consolidation reshuffled the leaderboard. --- ## Best 8 Landing Page Optimization Tools 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/landing-page-optimization-tools/ Published: 2022-03-09 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Reviews ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. When it comes to landing pages, even the slightest tweak may result in significant increases in your conversion rate and profits over time. However, just like other marketers, you may have difficulty figuring out how to improve the [effectiveness of your landing page.](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/)  In this post, I’ll share with you some of my favorite landing page optimization tools and best practices. After applying what you read in this article, more prospects will come your way, which means more sales for you. ## What is landing page optimization? The practice of developing well-designed pages for PPC visitors is known as landing page optimization. It entails tweaking each element on the website to increase the proportion of visitors that accomplish your intended objective. The ultimate objective of PPC landing page optimization is to create pages that better engage your target audience, allowing you to generate more leads through sponsored search. Optimizing landing pages is a difficult task with complexity. The following are the expected output after an [efficient landing page optimization:](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/)   1. A compelling title related to your PPC keyword and ad content entices the visitor to stick around. 2. Clean, appealing design that seems trustworthy and professional while remaining consistent with your brand. 3. Concise, persuasive writing that conveys the value of what you’re providing. 4. A user-friendly landing page form that does not turn off visitors. 5. A visually appealing, clickable button with a clear call to action. ## Why is landing page optimization important? Landing pages are very important in digital marketing. To increase sales and create more leads, they must be well-designed.  Increasing the conversion rate from potential visitors who arrive on your optimized landing pages is a great way to boost your business.  Using it lowers customer acquisition expenses, generates more leads, and increases the value of advertising expenditure for users. ## Top 8 Landing Page Optimization Tools Few choices exist when it comes to [building a landing page](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2020/03/27/seven-key-factors-to-help-your-landing-page-convert/?sh=6daf7a392ec9). A developer may be hired, but that takes time and money, or you can build one from scratch. Fortunately, it’s easy to create templates and modify them with whatever messages you like using various optimization tools. Create a fantastic landing page in minutes rather than putting in hours of work. The tools listed below are the landing page that may assist you in achieving your goal. ### 1\. Unbounce  Image captured: [Learn More About Unbounce](https://unbounce.com/your-invitation/?gspk=bWFyY21pbGxlcjE3Mjg=&gsxid=TqmXn1bICpls&gclid=CjwKCAjwtfqKBhBoEiwAZuesiIuH4xRp8s-1_G5Ifkco-Amx_LXDc3mAw6Hb--MKBk7AUNqy19ctfRoCAUgQAvD_BwE)![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pcHy4dcgKlhSi8msAYf-RRftpae2C9foyBqCCQME-wJ_GV43I7526R85XpL67jDNBwO1dFnG0H760X_0dVr0s19NBeo67srtccF5jovez6xwn94hjkPRxuovQ20lxQ5x4tUYBXgD=s0) Unbounce allows you to build customized landing pages without learning how to code. Using its extensive drag-and-drop interface, you may modify landing page designs and perform A/B testing of different versions of the same landing page. Unbounce’s collection has over 100 mobile-optimized landing page templates, making it easier to create landing pages. It also provides comprehensive training on building landing pages. Users may learn best practices and methods for improving landing pages. ### 2\. Instapage  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/FtH2wJvbymZ0NE9zqFlx5LG9s8B3GYEwOeV9JCPwovKJ85tbxG3nMeoHO_CFgOL2GLASGuFCla5PLgAeXFoBauWPwaKRtkOdZ0T2lbO9jHwJf1Mwn62X_R23EOXSndjAWQEKNpXX=s0) Image captured: [Instapage – The World’s Most Advanced Landing Page Platform](https://instapage.com/?gspk=ZGV2ZGVzYWk4NTkx&gsxid=wglzMa53Xf6i&gclid=CjwKCAjwtfqKBhBoEiwAZuesiAvN-aNRuV4bX6X-RUMGljQmASQ8M0PQka2HQ6T9aa_feyvdnyWSURoC7d4QAvD_BwE). Instapage, like Unbounce, is a drag-and-drop landing page builder. Users may create page variations for A/B testing, measuring user behavior, and doing content experiments. It also provides over 200 landing page templates that may be tailored to your specific requirements. Instapage allows you to monitor visitor activity on the landing page by using built-in heatmaps. It enables you to identify friction points on the page and [make changes to increase your conversion rates.](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2020/03/11/three-ways-to-increase-your-conversion-rate/)  ### 3\. Leadpages  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/QG0tjQpuS-9ig_X4jlP1UxlxuuivZA2nPI5FK-7y12Z3X0j2q2eEWx5jKaCLPvb4crAxs3ZABIB5omRx2kaUocFl4b04EDDs2QQqAFOprtG6XoQ0vB0G9gjZ322zOBbgRfDSb97K=s0) Image captured: [Leadpages® Landing Page Builder & Lead Gen Software](https://lp.leadpages.com/home/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Search-Brand-Pure-T3-ALPHA-Exact&utm_content=ALPHA_-_Leadpages_-_Pure&utm_term=leadpages&gclid=CjwKCAjwtfqKBhBoEiwAZuesiMFM0Zp_mgrIqy3D-_zFVsS9rMbPoy9tEcguESQRfgl-4dvXjO3LCBoCHSAQAvD_BwE). Aside from a drag-and-drop landing page builder, marketers can use LeadPages to include pop-up forms and alert bars into their lead generation funnels and improve landing page conversion rates. The Template marketplace, on the other hand, is LeadPages’ most significant invention. Hundreds of templates are available in the market for marketers to buy and modify for use with their campaigns, often for $10-15 per template. Users of LeadPages may create their templates and sell them on the marketplace for 100% commissions. As a consequence, platform customers may personalize their campaigns using a plethora of low-cost landing page designs. ### 4\. Hotjar ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/FraZ8aViuy-RVeURKttJb3LHGSLQfcjfWZBU2vET5oQHCRI-g92WbWJk-yla5MJiBADDkf4lFtRJ1IhhHFa9beK_j-hVaIDR8esFJLmWv8GP5zC92MhH5UXZwB1MPF6h0zRKqJmt=s0) Image captured: [Hotjar: Website Heatmaps & Behavior Analytics Tools](https://www.hotjar.com/). Hotjar employs heatmaps, which enable you to see what visitors do when they arrive at your landing page. Heatmaps aid in landing page optimization by allowing users to detect and evaluate how visitors interact with different components on the landing page. You may monitor and gather several metrics, such as Customer Satisfaction (CSAT), Net Promoter Score (NPS), and Voice of the Customer (VOC).  Users may also build surveys to directly gather feedback from prospects on their experience with the landing page. This data may assist you in making optimization-related choices. ### 5\. CrazyEgg  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/LhPWwF1NcrMwKxRC-PaX5NK5jZhcaRuFzrASY0kFnuLaspoUeJoDk5Jgks7JtYy2UGawrxhUDFSCs_v9LBXyK0miEznK7smHgT8UZ2GdSQlE8q5Cp0js2p22Q-4Qktm5BCMKv5dV=s0) Image captured: [Crazy Egg Website Optimization | Heatmaps & A/B Testing](https://www.crazyegg.com/) CrazyEgg is a website optimization tool that analyzes visitor behavior, investigates buyer’s journeys, identifies audience groups across web pages, and detects problems. Administrators may set up particular objectives to evaluate web pages for more meaningful statistics. This landing page optimization tool is best suited for marketing and product teams, small enterprises, e-commerce firms, and digital agencies. Some of its standout features include: - Analytical behavior - Segmentation of campaigns - Choosing an Audience - Visualization of data - Heatmaps ### 6\. PopupSmart  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/SI781bn1yHgC1YMt4HlF54DSssKO0TcTx00VfsXtC_-Nn9cLPIACzEuNabcIsYnSPiNkSHnv8wbnqYfXzlP2oKaQaAFmpq7lSudrTyaRfjaWmx3UBOhuqxkitP5ihFB9OGMkQHkd=s0) Image captured: [Showcase | Popupsmart](https://popupsmart.com/showcase/) One of the primary objectives of landing pages, which Popupsmart excels at, is lead creation. A no-code popup builder tool allows website owners to gather email leads, boost sales, and engage visitors via opt-in forms, pop-ups, and sticky bars. Some of its other noteworthy features are mobile responsive video popup and templates that are ready to use and may be customized.  ### 7\. Visual Website Optimizer (VWO) ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/WuW6N6sx2ca0FTl_5aAM6jr__Pnbq3e0tzyu5KGuj68aD75qMEWYF-cqHUMz-fostVtsHTcOpo5JXk5jLil2APaSs0O-8U2dHeL1UWMQmtT4fRJ-mDhAG2iQ7AHN4BzZus18PdWU=s0) Image captured: [VWO | #1 A/B Testing Tool in the World](https://vwo.com/) Visual Website Optimizer (VWO) is a free, user-friendly conversion rate optimization tool that works with Google Analytics. It provides marketers with three options for testing landing pages: A/B testing, multivariate testing, and split URL testing. Additionally, it provides conversion monitoring, which can instantly calculate how much each click costs you. It will then show the best cost-effective advertisements or landing pages for your company. It’s an excellent tool for both new and experienced digital marketers. It enables you to make changes to your website without the need to hire digital designers or a digital marketing firm. ### 8\. UserTesting ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/E0wEke0Fdxn-nBD0ykHOaiTwkqxKxSCHaXZBWOSmj4kM_ffH6XjbJ3OarU7tSmxM3oCWOlVRPoZ5UGcC-xJHJtj7FYJudQNMjBU1dCNMKOfiFZ014-Gk6rtqHDyS-cjkFxSipjeM=s0) Image captured: [UserTesting: The Human Insight Platform](https://www.usertesting.com/). This tool’s name pretty much sums up what it does.  Users are invited to visit your landing page and browse around it using this tool. By then, users record their interaction with your landing page and give you a copy. The fact that they must also record their audio is what makes this gadget so helpful. As a result, making sense of comments is a lot simpler, and you end up with a far more comprehensive evaluation. ## 5 Best Practices For Your Landing Page Optimization  ### 1\. Don’t Forget To Do A/B Testing. As previously said, landing page optimization has a significant impact on conversions. Even if your landing page isn’t very great on its own, there are many methods to achieve that conversion. Content is still important. People will read anything you write, but it must make sense and connect with your intended audience. I’d also want to emphasize the importance of keywords while deciding on headlines and details in your article.  If anything does not seem to be working, try A/B testing. You may do this by varying the headlines and content on your landing page.  Continue to conduct A/B testing to observe how those components perform. Then you’ll be able to determine which method works best for you. ### 2\. Make Your Landing Page As Simple As Possible. Displaying a basic landing page to your visitors may not seem logical, but it will help you minimize visual clutter. It is really important if you want your website visitors to concentrate on your call to action instead of getting lost in the background. Companies that design excellent landing pages concentrate on communicating with few words. For example, you may want to feature just four to five key items above the fold on your product landing page. ### 3\. Show Social Proof ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/38QdyeYByiDcPN5_eJz7cFKn2fLGPz6hjYnVwraKgGV9R599Lmpwj7OIVlv1IyZKmJfpqk4NfYhq7tFk4gMTiQi_phN5-mKEp9Y54f0noGyYB3fRf_ZcCEEFJa_840ThlG-fXOEa=s0) Image from:  [Dribbble – real\_pixels.png by Jaime de Ascanio](https://dribbble.com/shots/1497368-What-our-users-say-about-us-Testimonials/attachments/224879) It is one of my favorite best practices for landing page SEO. Have you considered using testimonials on [your landing pages to convert uncertain users?](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) Landing pages to assist in the conversion of uncertain users? For starters, I believe in giving social evidence for your goods and services. It’s not simply about gathering feedback. We should demonstrate that we’ve assisted a lot of them in achieving great outcomes. As a result, including testimonials on your landing page is one of the most effective ways to establish trust, particularly on a product page. Even if quotations seem effective, you can always attempt to persuade your clients to consent to create a video testimonial. That is how you will get an advantage over your competitors. ### 4\. Give Exit Popups A Try A landing page isn’t always enough to achieve that conversion. You’ll need to tweak it to achieve the desired effect. You might, for example, use exit popups. How exactly does it work? If a user tries to leave your website, an exit popup displays on the screen of your landing page. By adopting this approach, you will have another opportunity to generate a conversion. I like exit popups because they are less intrusive than pop-ups displayed when a visitor first visits your website. To get visitors to click, utilize a mix of engaging visual images, a powerful headline, and CTA language. ### 5\. Experiment With Visual Data Reports Of course, before you begin improving landing pages, [you must first identify possible issues.](https://alejandrorioja.com/psychology-tricks-marketing-strategy/) A heat map, for example, may show you where visitors are clicking on your landing page. This kind of tool may assist you in determining whether or not visitors are ignoring your call to action. It may also help determine whether people focus on a relatively insignificant aspect, such as a stock picture. ## Takeaway To summarize, let’s talk about why we need landing page optimization tools. Landing page optimization solutions are essential for marketers who recognize that marketing is a constantly changing industry. Smart marketers use landing pages to be creative and reach consumers in novel ways, using high-impact, time-tested features. I mentioned the top 8 landing page optimization tools in this blog article, and they’re all great places to start with your marketing efforts. These technologies allow us to concentrate our efforts better on enhancing each landing page to maximize investment return.  What are your thoughts about the top 8 landing page optimization tools mentioned above? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.  Liked this article? Read more to expand on your media page marketing: - [How To Design A Landing Page: A Step By Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/)  - [Top 6 Ways To Improve Page Experience](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-improve-page-experience/) - [Understanding Integrated Marketing Communication: Tools & Approaches](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Be Super Productive: Killer Productivity Tips 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tips/ Published: 2022-03-09 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Marketing, home TL;DR: The Pareto Principle (also known as the 80/20 rule) states that roughly 80% of our outcomes come from 20% of our efforts. > Working on just the right things can lead to far more effective results than trying to focus on everything. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Being productive is essentially a skill, and like any other skill, it can become better with practice. First, you have to pay attention to the internal productivity factors like having a routine that works for you, satisfying your physiological needs, doing breathing exercises, and waking up before everybody else. Once you’re ready from within, you can start to implement external productivity factors like eliminating time wasters and toxic relationships, making quick decisions, using hardware and software tools like Trello, Asana, Slack, etc. Essentially, you have to self-discipline and figure out what works for you in terms of productivity. It might be challenging at first, but if you are persistent you will see great results. **Being productive is a skill, and like any skill it can be learned and mastered**. We live in a world where our responsibilities increase, distractions arise 24/7 and our time just seems to keep on decreasing. Becoming a productive person is all about understanding the factors (whether external or internal) that affect how we perform a task and designing our lives around them so that we make the most out of our time available. If you find that you don’t have enough time, lack motivation to start or simply feel that your output can be improved here are some tips that I’ve found very useful in becoming ultra-productive. These tips have allowed me to run my [businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) (Flux), write 100+ blog posts, [rap](http://youngslacker.com), and read dozens of books per year. (btw, I highly recommend [Audible](https://alejandrorioja.com/audible-review/))  So without further ado, let’s jump right in and [get deep work done](https://amzn.to/2FXRONp). (Read the [full version of this article on Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com/how-to-be-productive/)) ## Fundamentals ### **Pareto Principle** If you read nothing else this year, at least make sure you read this paragraph carefully and internalize it. The Pareto Principle (also known as the 80/20 rule) states that roughly 80% of our outcomes come from 20% of our efforts. > Working on just the right things can lead to far more effective results than trying to focus on everything. With this in mind, a productive person identifies which tasks can lead to the most output and works on those first, while deferring the other tasks for later or delegating the other tasks to someone else, like a freelancer on [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55). Using a very simple decision matrix to discern what’s important from what isn’t, you should rank your tasks every day by how much closer they bring you towards your long term goals and solely work on them. ### **Learn how to communicate** **Being assertive is a highly useful skill.** Not having to repeat yourself saves you time and energy. It also creates a communication environment where fewer mistakes due to misunderstandings are made. ## Internal productivity  ### **Have a productive routine** Make being productive a habit (and a choice!). **Learn how to focus and remained focused.** Bundle activities together so you don’t waste time switching gears. The more you plan, the easier it will be stay on track.  Brian Tracy, an expert in sales and renowned motivational speaker, says that every minute spent planning can save you 10 minutes in execution. Learn how to plan your day ahead so you can stop going through crisis after crisis and instead focus on your best work. ### **Keep hydrated and well-fed** [Being hungry or thirsty is a productivity killer](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-health-tips-th%D0%B0t-ch%D0%B0ng%D0%B5d-life/). Proper nutrition will ensure optimal results. Professional athletes eat smart and you should too. Junk food will lead to junk performance. Snack smart and often. Use the physiology of your body to your advantage and learn how to manage your “energy bank”.  ### **Breathe deeply to help you focus, workout to boost your energy** Here’s a quick exercise you can do to feel more present and be more focused: 1. Close your eyes 2. Smile 3. Breathe deeply and exhale slowly. 4. Repeat this 4-5 times. If you do this 45 second exercise, you will notice that your mind will be immediately much clearer. If you have more time, practice meditation. Find an energy-releasing activity where you can unwind and distract your mind. This could be lifting, biking, hiking or doing yoga. ### **Wake up before everyone else** Not only this will give you some quiet time to think better **but it will also make you feel like you’re getting ahead of your competition and boost your internal energy**. ## External productivity ### **Design your workspace to be productive** If your desk contains video games or clutter, it is likely that you won’t be able to focus as much. Try to remove as many obstacles as you can between you and the task at hand. If you go on Facebook too much, try [StayFocusd](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/stayfocusd/laankejkbhbdhmipfmgcngdelahlfoji?hl=en). ### **Eliminate toxic people and time-wasters out of your life** **If someone is draining your energy or distracting you, they need to go.** Learn to say NO more often and stop agreeing to doing everything with everyone. Also, if you have any bad habits such as justifying an 8-hour movie-watching binge as leisure time, those also need to go. Be very honest with yourself and evaluate if a person or an activity is truly being beneficial to you or not. ![be productive](https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6b/71/9b/6b719ba993d95d6f171d3f2e29a76cdc.jpg) ## Performance, it’s go time ### **Start** You can’t finish if you don’t start. Stop wasting time and just get to it. If you need to sell, [just go out and do it](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything/). ### **Make a decision (quick)** A lot of people have decision paralysis. They always seem to need “more time to think about it” or simply “need more information”. In most cases you already have a decision formed or already have enough information to make a decision, so **just decide and move on.** Lingering on a problem for too long ends up cluttering your thoughts. ### **Learn how to do daily activities the most efficient way (to free up your time)** It surprises me how we sometimes learn the wrong ways to do things since young and we never change them: tying our shoes, chopping onions, folding clothes, etc. As it turns out, you’re probably doing most of these activities in an inefficient way. While relearning might take some time, in the end the time saved or higher output produced due to learning a better way is well worth it. ### **Use (software or hardware) tools to do your job quicker** > Why work when there’s already a pre-made tool that can automate what you do? You should always look out for [tools that can free up your time](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-facebook-script/) and allow you to shift your focus towards even higher return tasks. If you can create an email campaign to email all your leads, why would you ever want to do this manually? A few of my favorites include: - [Trello](http://trello.com) (or PivotalTracker) for project management - Slack for communication - [Alfred](https://www.alfredapp.com/) (great for clipboard history and text snippets) - Headspace to clear my head with meditation - A simple piece of paper to jot down the things I need to do that day ## Bottom line Being productive takes a lot of personal discipline but you can make your life a lot easier if you know which important tasks you should work on, you’re properly hydrated and fed and your work setup is clutter-free and conducive to quality work. The beauty of productivity is that once you start getting the hang of it, your outcome grows exponentially and your time frees up a lot, allowing you to do even cooler things.  If you are serious about productivity, you should outsource as many tasks as you can as laid out in [my Fiverr review](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/). If you are looking for suggestions on productivity and work management tools, read my guide [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/). --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Start a Million Dollar eCommerce Business in 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/ Published: 2022-03-08 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: One of them is Flux Chargers, an ecommerce business selling a top portable charger that has sold in over 90 countries and generated over $100k in monthly revenue. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Ecommerce stores can be temporary; they can come and go. Your primary focus should be on building a brand that will build you a long-lasting relationship with your customers. You have to think about what you want to portray with your brand, so people can associate that with your products. When you start, don’t overdo it. Start small with a narrow array of products. Keep track of which products are successful and use tools like Optimizely for A/B testing and Hotjar for recording the customer behavior onsite. This way, you can find the right direction in which you should move. Treat your customers so well that they can’t say a negative word about you. Good customer support is one of the most important things any business can have. And whatever you do, you absolutely shouldn’t forget SEO and digital marketing. Good content, affiliate programs, influencer marketing, etc. are tools that you should take advantage of. Additionally, you should primarily focus on one channel instead of all at the same time, be aware of your customers’ behaviors, automate processes to increase productivity, join relevant groups to get information, and more. Overall, starting an eCommerce business is a very challenging and time-consuming choice, but if you put effort, time, and passion into it- success is inevitable. Over the past couple years I’ve launched [many online projects](https://alejandrorioja.com/about/) and [sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/). One of them is [Flux Chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/), an ecommerce business selling a top portable charger that has sold in over 90 countries and **generated over $100k in monthly revenue**. I’ve learned many lessons and techniques in brand building, [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/), [reaching out to press](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/), and many more since I launched my first Flux Ventures company.  I decided to create this guide to reflect on the knowledge that I’ve acquired creating this ecommerce brand and to see what I would do differently next time I launch an **ecommerce store**. I hope this guide serves you well and you are able to use this information to your advantage. If you do, all I ask you is to **send this to a friend that could also benefit from it.**  If you like to consume content via video, here’s a talk I gave at Ontraplaooza’17 based on the stuff I wrote here. Basics of an ecommerce business Ecommerce is strongly growing every year, and it’s growing fast. By 1999 retail e-commerce sales accounted for 0.6% of all retail sales. In the early days of the platform, this percentage was 14.1%, and this number is expected to grow over time reaching 22% in 2023. And that is very logical since the online shopping experience nowadays is extremely developed and customers are more and more trusting it. Just to put in perspective, that 14.1% in 2019 accounted for $3.5 trillion in eCommerce revenue.  With these statistics in view, it’s about time you understand the basics of an eCommerce business and learn about key points in developing a successful store. ## 1\. Focus on building a brand not just a store Ecommerce stores fade quickly. Brands can have a much longer lifespan. Building a brand allows you to foster a long-term relationship with your customers. A brand is the expectation that a customer has of your business. Think about how many people buy an iPhone just because of the Apple brand. They know the way the packing feels, they love to go to the Apple Store, etc. You should aim for that type of loyalty in your business. You can either create that loyalty through **great personal branding** (by which people buy from you because they like you and trust you as a person) or by **providing a delightful experience** with the product so that the customers are wowed with their purchase.  Given that creating a brand is so important for the long-term success of your business. You should careful think about what it is that you want to convey with your brand. You might associate Apple with its ease of use and elegance. With [Flux](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/), we want you to think of sleekness and durability. An added benefit of creating a brand is that your customers can associate it with a particular product and thus word-of-mouth is much easier to achieve. You should aim to have a name that is easy to spell in multiple languages and that is short enough to be memorable. And please **try to get a .com domain**, it’s just simply much more trustworthy than a .net, .store, or .anything else. Also, when creating a name and logo for your company think about [how it will affect your customers perception of the products you sell](https://alejandrorioja.com/colors-shapes-in-brand-logos/). [FastCompany indicates](https://www.fastcompany.com/3028378/what-your-logos-color-says-about-your-company-infographic) that almost 85% of consumers cite color as the primary reason they buy a particular product, and 80% of people believe color increases brand recognition.   ## 2\. Start small, test and find a winning product Every billion dollar store had no sales at one point. Amazon started with just books, Zappos did just shoes. You should approach your sales the same way. Start with just a few things, test different hypotheses like product pricing, product description, the demographic that you’re targeting, etc. Once you find a formula that works, [start doing bigger tests with the bigger budget that you earned from your sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). But what if you can’t find a winning product? Then that means you haven’t tested the right hypotheses. Most people think that these tests require a budget but in reality you can test a lot of things for free by asking your network for feedback for instance. You can also do very small $10 ad tests on Google and Facebook to gauge the interest for a particular product.  A few of my favorite tools are [Optimizely](https://www.optimizely.com/) for A/B testing and [Hot](https://www.inspectlet.com/)[j](https://www.hotjar.com/)[a](https://www.inspectlet.com/)[r](https://www.inspectlet.com/) to record what a visitor is doing on your site and have a heat map. Once you find which words resonate better with your audience and where on your site your visitors are struggling, you can optimize your site to make your funnel from cold visitor -> sale much smoother. Besides that, a big part of whether or not you will be able to scale your business is understanding the size of the market and whether or not you can capture a sizeable portion of it. [Finding a profitable niche](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_us_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7), requires some research and market testing. If you are interested in learning how to determine if your niche is profitable read what [I wrote for the Huffington Post](http://huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_us_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7). ## 3\. Wow your customers so they rave positively about you When I first started Flux Chargers, traffic to my site was hard to come by so I had to [make sales through a different channel: in-person](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything/). I went to the streets of Santa Monica and sold to strangers during weekends and holidays. Although this was highly unscalable, this helped me put my brand out there and get it known. Also, the first handful of sales were fulfilled manually by us, we inspected the products and also wrote handwritten thank you cards to the first 500 people that bought from our site. Even to this day, we still pride ourselves for our customer support and try to ensure that every one of our customers gets the experience we envisioned. Have you ever returned to a restaurant simply because of the way they treated you? You should have nothing but delightful experiences with your customers if you intend for them to come back. For your store, try to do something nice for your customers: whether it is writing a handwritten note, a personalized facebook message, or giving a free add-on item. You may think it’s overkill but creating that additional connection with your early supporters will go a long way. Remember that people will trust their friends more than your company when making a purchase decision. ## Use SEO and Digital Marketing to get free website traffic (Ecommerce) entrepreneurs think of a million dollar store and immediately think of high marketing budgets and big ad spends. However, at Flux Chargers, we actually spent very little on paid traffic. All of our sales were made through our [affiliate network](https://www.amazon.com/sp?seller=A2DVX2S8JHC5W6), our strong brand recognition on the press and inbound leads that come from organic search. Here is an in-depth post detailing all the tactics I know to [get 250k visitors per month](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/). Naturally, I’ve learned a lot when it comes to getting publicity, so here are my takeaways; - Create [content that will SEO to the top](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/) for keywords of low to medium difficulty when you’re just starting out. Also, know [how to SEO optimize your site](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/). To be specific, you should target keywords that have a keyword difficulty of less than 30-35 and have at least 100-500+ searches per month. My favorite SEO tools are [SEMRush](https://www.semrush.com/lp/site-audit-do/en/?ref=5526970816&refer_source=&utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_site_audit) and [Ahrefs](http://ahrefs.com). Learn the [basics of SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo).  - Set up an affiliate program that’s enticing for your affiliates and treat your affiliate partners with care. I like to occasionally send personalized thank you emails to our affiliates regardless if they made us 1 sale or 100. If they like working with me, they will perform better and send us more referrals. - [Reach out to influencers](http://soinfluential.com) in your space and negotiate win-win deals. They don’t always have to have money involved. For instance, with a few influencers, I feature them on press sites and they shoutout my product on their pages as exchange. You can also send them free products. Pro tip: These influencer don’t need to have millions of followers, they just need to have a loyal following in the space that you’re working in. Something finding a thought leader on LinkedIn is all you need.  - Find and connect with writers at various publications where your customers hang out. There’s no point in appearing on Techcrunch if your audience is bodybuilders. My favorite way to connect with contributors is Facebook then Twitter then Email. Here are more specifics on [how to reach out to contributors](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/). - Provide value to everyone you connect with and opportunities that you might have not thought of will pop up. ## Instead of focusing on multiple channels just scale the ones that are working I see many people trying to get followers on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, launching campaigns with influencers and more. We made this mistake at the start too. We tried to focus on too many platforms and marketing avenues and we never achieved anything meaningful. Instead of spreading yourself too thin and trying to cover all possible social media platforms, figure out which platform is the most profitable and exploit it. ## Know your numbers and know the [psychology behind sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything/) Going from $0-100k/mo is all about measuring and calculations. Know your CAC (customer acquisition cost), your conversion rate, the time to checkout, your site load speed, etc. If you can improve in one of those variables you will be able to generate more revenue. The way to get better is by looking at the numbers. Go on Google Analytics, your Facebook Pixel and your store backend and try to see if you can find any patterns. I would also suggest to use [UTMs](https://blog.bufferapp.com/utm-guide) to track more accurately where your visitors are coming from. [Selling is a science](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything/), and like any science it can be studied and mastered. Knowing what makes people buy will be essential when growing your business. Here a few proven selling tricks that will lead to higher conversions: - Include social proofs (video testimonials, verified reviews, screenshots, youtube unboxings, etc). - Offer discounts that expire. The scarcity and FOMO (fear of missing out) will make bring those customers that are on the fence of buying one step closer to conversion. - Have an easy return process and great warranty. People want to know if you are putting your money where your mouth is. If your product is as good as you say, why not offer a satisfaction-guaranteed warranty? - Have your sales copy read or prepared by professionals. People that are in the sales space know the words that will trigger someone to buy, don’t leave this very important detail out.  - Use price anchors, price comparisons and bundle products to increase your average order value. If I tell you a product is $49 you might think that’s expensive but what about when I give you two options one for $49 and one for $149? Now all of the sudden, the $49 product looks like a bargain. Similarly, you can bundle and cross-sell items during checkout to bring in some extra revenue. - Encourage customers to add a few extra bucks for a speedier delivery or an add-on or upgrade to their products in the cart.  ## [Become the master of productivity](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/) by using tools and scripts to automate your work I don’t know about you, but I hate doing things twice. Nothing bugs me more than doing repetitive tasks. Having to spend less time in repetitive things will free up your time to do what you should be doing: [**growing your business**](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/).   My top tips to [increase your productivity dramatically](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/) are: - Understand the 80/20 rule (also known as the Pareto Principle) which states that 20% of your tasks will generate 80% of the results. In other words, if you only focus on the top 20% of tasks that will give you the most ROI, you will achieve far more than if you try to do the other 80%. - Delegate, Delete or Defer your tasks. If you’re not the best person for the job, give it to someone else, for instance outsource it to [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/s2/16ee5003e0). If this task shouldn’t be done in the first place, just trash it; and if this task is not crucial or important, put it out for later.  - Eat well and exercise. Anyone that is looking to achieve peak performance must also take a close look at their physiology and health.   - Find or develop tools and scripts to increase your output 100x. For instance, you can use [Buffer](https://buffer.com/) to schedule postings across your platforms, use [IFTTT](http://ifttt.com) to send an email to your list every time you publish a new blog post, get a [script to invite all your friends on facebook to like your page](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-facebook-script/), etc. ## Join Mastermind groups (and ask questions!) **The best way to learn how to build a million dollar ecommerce business is to learn from the people that have done it**. (This principle applies to any industry by the way, not just ecommerce.) Very early on, I joined a handful of Facebook groups where people posted valuable information for free just as a way to pay it forward. My favorite groups right now are the ? [All Things Social Media](https://www.facebook.com/groups/atsocialmedia/) and the [Shopify Ecommerce Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/shopifyecommercegroup).  Whenever I don’t know something I ask the group for help and someone kindly guides me. I also pay it back by answering someone else’s questions. This free exchange of information is super powerful because it will reduce the amount of mistakes you need to make to get to where you want to be. Also another great resource to learn ecommerce (or anything!) is Youtube and Google. For instance, If you don’t know how to make a lookalike audience on Facebook, you can easily learn it on Youtube in 5 min. Don’t linger too long on not knowing something, simply search it and learn it. ## **Which platform and apps should I use for my ecommerce store?** I’m a big fan of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), for its ease of use and the plugins available. Other alternatives are [Woocomerce](https://woocommerce.com/) and [Magento](https://magento.com/). The choice is really up to you. Here you can see a detailed [comparison of various ecommerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/). Whichever platform you use, you should look into the following ecommerce add-ons and plugins: - An SEO plugin like Yoast - Image optimizer and alt text creator - Live chat (Pro tip: connect it with your Facebook page. Even better: [make a chatbot](http://chatfuel.com)) - Reviews management - Mailchimp or Braze or Marketo - Bundle sales - Discounts and Coupons - In-cart upsells - Affiliate marketing software - Social media share buttons and integrations ## **Conclusion** Starting an eCommerce business is challenging and time-consuming but if you are willing to put in the time to learn and stick to it long enough, you will eventually achieve success. A great eCommerce store is the crux of great branding, carefully tested products, and [amazing marketing](https://flux.la/). Execution will trump anything when it comes to creating a profitable ecommerce store. Learning something new every day through your support network and constantly re-evaluating your efforts will ensure that you stay ahead of your competition. I hope you are excited to build and [grow your eCommerce store](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/)! If you found this guide valuable, **share it with a friend**. Here are some easy sharing links: [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Falejandrorioja.com%2Fblog%2Fcreate-million-dollar-ecommerce-business%2F), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=How+to+Create+a+Million+Dollar+Ecommerce+Business+%5BProven+Guide+By+Someone+Who+Has+Done+It%5D&url=https%3A%2F%2Falejandrorioja.com%2Fblog%2Fcreate-million-dollar-ecommerce-business%2F&via=riojaalejandro), [Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/cws/share?url=https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/). This article was repurposed for an article [I wrote for Inc Magazine](https://www.inc.com/rahul-varshneya/the-shortest-path-to-1-million-in-ecommerce-busin.html). Feel free to follow me on Snapchat [@youngslacker](http://snapchat.com/add/youngslacker) or Instagram @[youngslacker](https://www.instagram.com/youngslacker/) to see behind-the-scenes of what happens at the Flux Ventures HQ. Don’t forget that I also offer [coaching for ecommerce entrepreneurs](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro). To sign up for a session, follow the link below: - [ Sale Product on sale ![30 Min Consultation](/images/posts/inline/10aa3a67-30-min-seo-consultation.png) 30 Min Consultation ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. Rated **4.73** out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=3&lang=en&add-to-cart=23495) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## The Most Amazing Free Stock-Photo Sites in 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/free-stock-photo-sites/ Published: 2022-03-08 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. When you are working as a graphic designer, you need to find a perfect picture to get started. When you are learning how to create a marketing strategy for your startup business, seeing the right image to represent your brand should be priority number one. However, some professionals do not have the photography skills needed to create a beautiful photo themselves. Soon, they may find themselves browsing the internet for good pictures, but end up getting disappointed because they need to consider licensing, attribution, permission, and price. Fortunately, designers, bloggers, business owners, and other professionals that need images can take a look at free stock photo sites. These websites have generous communities of photographers who are willing to let others use their pictures without worrying about licensing or copyright issues. ## Differences with all these sites The content of [free stock photo sites](https://www.freepik.com/popular-photos) varies from a vast field of topics. While some photos may require attribution from the author, most of them are open for the public to use for different purposes. Some sites also offer a premium membership for access to more exclusive and rare photos. To those who want to use free stock photos that require the author’s recognition, they may simply add a copyright symbol in the caption of the photo with the name of the photographer. Also, redistribution of mass downloads from one free stock photo site to another may have consequences. There are a lot of stock photo sites, but there are some that separate themselves from others because of their unique stories, unselfish photographers, and high-quality images. Users can even contact the people behind the sites and share their desired content. Here are the **25 best free stock photo websites** you can use for your creative needs: ## **1) Negative Space** Negative Space shares its photos without copyright restrictions, which means that anyone can use, edit, or post them without worrying about any fraud cases. The subjects of Negative Space’s high-quality images are vast, ranging from technology to architecture. Its website also makes it easier for people to browse photo galleries, which can be sorted by color, category, and copy space position. Negative Space aims to provide people with photos that have out-of-focus surroundings so that the subject stands out. The concept behind negative space is a technique that most photographers know but are no usually done. Sometimes, those photos are perfect for creative projects, marketing plans, and business branding. Website: [negativespace.co](https://negativespace.co/) ## **2) StockSnap.io** ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/i0dQNA9Kt_MA-GtJNEyQ7pXT_8qb4L3SXmwpgxxdzw0MPzjRqAPXpwRR8B3Xg6UtkJ7yHRSwxFRVNlsRu2yf8CmICWoT1XfAdTZ1kEM_PVoJ_QUFbnAUAR0alBB_bYNk3HgCpjeggx-Qd5kpFg) StockSnap.io has thousands of images in high resolution that can attract users in need of a photo for a brand or an article picture. The website also has an easy-to-use search feature for its massive selection of stock photos. The public photos site also adds new content per day and can sort out the most famous pictures users love to download and view. Website: [stocksnap.io](https://stocksnap.io/) ## **3) Death to Stock** Death to Stock makes it easier for businesspeople, creative teams, and bloggers to find the perfect photos. This free photo stock website also has a membership program, which gives Death to Stock users the option to have preferred batches of photos sent to their e-mail address every month. Death to Stock also offers Premium membership, which is around 15 dollars a month or 180 dollars a year. The fee helps website founders and photographers Allie and David go on photography projects to widen Death to Stock’s collection of incredible photos. Website Page: [https://deathtothestockphoto.com/](https://deathtothestockphoto.com/) ## **4) Pexels** Pexels photos have the Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, which means that internet users can download them for personal or commercial use. The free images come from different sources around the internet, which means that people will be browsing through the most popular photos online. With its search feature, people who need the perfect image for their creative projects, businesses, or blogs. Pexel’s website also helps people discover unexplored images through its discover page. Website: [www.pexels.com](https://www.pexels.com/) ## **5) Picjumbo** ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cEYB3jvHFlEz6G2qHn2FZD8T2I3HRidL1OyJgw4yP-iIAspHHHRguTfpHiWGxin8Al2snLevHEs_fYYWwf0JlSc4KVL5c6UwUkQzaXynDo-YBqku_JWDDz0wUR6oq0pYaIhiY_ZVnRUUY5h1ow) Picjumbo’s photographer Vicktor wants to give people high-quality photos on a wide selection for free. Picjumbo focuses on providing members with stock photos that they can use as wallpapers, profile backgrounds, and images for creative blogs. The website offers the most popular photo topics available and makes it easy for users to filter subjects. The website also offers paid membership of at least $10 a month. The premium membership can help designers and bloggers as it includes a Photoshop and Sketch plugin for below $8, giving you the option to remove or cover up trademarks and unwanted objects in a specific photo. Website: [picjumbo.com](https://picjumbo.com/) ## **6) Unsplash** Unsplash serves as the stockroom of a generous community of photographers willing to help others with creative pictures for free. The free stock photo website provides users with an extensive collection of wallpapers, textures and patterns, nature, and anything under the sun. Once a Tumblr blog, Unsplash has grown into a big community that serves and inspires thousands of people. Unsplash gives users a way to find specific photos. It also contains albums that help users find an extensive collection of images about one topic. Unsplash has the Creative Commons Zero license, which allows those who download their photos the freedom to tinker with them without attribution. Website: [unsplash.com](https://unsplash.com/) ## **7) Stokpic** Every two weeks, Stokpic sends ten high-quality photos to the e-mail address of premium subscribers. Photographer Ed Gregory makes sure that everyone is up to date with the best 100 pictures with its latest 100 option. Stokpic also puts its thousands of images into categories to help users find the content they like. Apart from redistribution, subscribers can use Gregory’s photos in any way they want. The premium membership for Stokpic not only assures members that a new batch of photos in high-resolution will arrive into their inbox, but it also gives their photographers a way to fund their creative trips and capture more breathtaking images. Website: [stokpic.com](https://stokpic.com/) ## **8) Burst (by Shopify)** ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/bsNGSY-cyeTqNp1JZg06B9jYCyo5f7Nz0CtKDjmStmF9vBVLBYnfyZRt5Z3c7YyVGIw-YPx3yv6ulWFP2GyOVGNb6Lj04X556FrY_74hHK1azhgQhXL40v74sTYqIuNdJ35AtgrKRZYIvZ0XJA) Burst makes it its goal to provide starting entrepreneurs with a wide selection of quality images from its in-house photographers. Powered by Shopify, Burst regularly uploads high-resolution photos for its users’ projects and commercial uses. Burst plans to help [e-commerce and retail businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) with trending shots included in its new pictures and new categories section. Burst aims to build the biggest free stock photo library on the internet without giving users the headache that comes with licensing, royalties, and attribution. The next booming business may be using a free and beautiful photo from Burst’s outstanding collection. Website: [burst.shopify.com](https://burst.shopify.com/) ## **9) Kaboompics** ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uDnuXh2_G48Kb5_JZKmwizo5nzh4VWWU1FSc37thJp9EPklmqmJcPPaS9Ztvw6WZZo7021wfavvK4Us9AcmiufMM5_VKJsABk7uHWF0UFb-vtcWRLOvMoPQGreXDBQPVSHUN3pU4IQo4nT4SMg) Karolina Grabowska is a photographer, a website creator, and a graphic designer who wants to help people visualize their ideas in life. Using her combined skill, Karolina creates Kaboompics, a website dedicated to helping businesspeople, travel bloggers, and creative artists find the perfect photo for their personal uses. As one of the most popular free stock photo websites in the world. Kaboompics ensures users that the image database is continuously growing. One of Kaboompic’s most outstanding features is the free stock photo site’s Photoshoots category, which enables users to find a whole gallery of their preferred photos instead of just one. It also has a blog, which is full of stories about motivation, travels, photography advice, and many more. Website: [kaboompics.com](https://kaboompics.com/) ## **10) Reshot** Reshot makes it its goal to unify creators by providing a platform for them to exchange the best visual content. Reshot thinks of photography as a passionate craft instead of a job, which is why it aims to give users the freedom to download their high-quality photos without worrying about license and attribution. Reshot’s website gives subscribers trending photos upon the first click. With its massive library of high-quality images, users can browse through Reshot using its search tool with confidence that they will find the content they desire. Website: [reshot.com](https://www.reshot.com/) ## **11) Pixabay** Pixabay offers a user-friendly site of free, high-quality stock photos. Under the CC0 license, Pixabay allows its users to edit, modify, and use their chosen Pixabay images without attribution or permission to use the image from the photographer. It also has a search bar that allows users to filter through images depending on color, dimensions, and orientation. Some people may find marked images on the Pixabay website, which means that some of the pictures included in its gallery are from professional photographers. Website: [pixabay.com](https://pixabay.com/) ## **12) FoodiesFeed** ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/wS9tv8E_VAvPMpH7gBqVTCVq7fmCzhRl33xKPRfh5yJ2a-yEkOqu6oEe9Trx4nl7yvn3caLkto5TKeas3tL5IsgooW-rXphDjQKFFWHS2-hOXw8KHNR2_2H1KBeWFG65rnpDMpHdvB7_Gl0qYw) Some people may want to browse beautiful pictures of food for tips and models on how to post their meals on social media. There are also others who may need food photos for creative projects and restaurant businesses. Users that are into food photography can rest knowing the FoodiesFeed exists after failing to find the proper food image from other free stock photo sites. FoodiesFeed founder Jakub Kapusnak ensures that food bloggers will have no trouble finding the right meal picture. Noticing that his food photos are starting to pile up, Kapusnak created Foodiesfeed, and the free stock photo site’s popularity skyrocketed ever since. Website: [foodiesfeed.com](https://www.foodiesfeed.com/) ## **13) LibreShot** Martin Vorel refuses to let his breathtaking photos remain inside folders in his private computers. Willing to share his pictures to the rest of the world, Vorel started LibreShot. The collection of images in LibreShot range from architecture to floral, all of which have Vorel’s unique style to it. LibreShot allows users to take free stock photos and use it for commercial purposes, personal use, website or phone wallpapers, educational materials, E-books, posters, news articles, and many more. All photos from LibreShot are under Creative Commons Public domain, which means that users can do what they want with the images. However, they must refrain from mass downloading LibreShot images to redistribute to other stock photo sites and hotlink pictures. Website: [libreshot.com](https://libreshot.com/) ## **14) Gratisography** ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/CEj7N1albGgfCD3u5-9HuRycuHskNVDArBkHdfKS-qt0ZYBhF0NVH6WwhK9dgS7TDjqpZJx8BUiJYnBDAg88z5_L5DKseaOSOefYWI_66xZiqIYkDnOGZ0CCeTRRxHyjSg5JiXp3-QjQQxP0Tw) Ryan McGuire knows that most free stock photo sites have similar content, which is why he decided to create a free stock photo website that offers the most unusual yet interesting pictures for everyone. Gratisography banks on the element of surprise and humor to keep users coming back for more images to download. Creativity is McGuire’s motivation behind the free stock photo site, which aims to define an image as a bright moment in life. All of Gratisography’s quirky and high-resolution photos come from the creative mind and photographic skill of McGuire. With new images coming in weekly, Gratisography keeps users on its toes for something more than just bland stock photos. Website: [gratisography.com](https://gratisography.com/) ## **15) SplitShire** SplitShire does not want beautiful images to go to waste without use, which is why its CEO Daniel Nanescu got the concept of sharing his works of art to the world. SplitShire offers tons of free photos that are not restricted by copyright issues. Websites like CNN and Huffington Post are two major publications that love to use SplitShire’s amazing images. Nanescu knows the average graphic designer’s struggle in finding great free pictures. The Italian photographer vows to help them with their dilemma by sharing his photographs, which are massive hits with over 2 million downloads and 6 million views. Website: [splitshire.com](https://www.splitshire.com/) ## **16) MMT Stock** ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/y8MpJD8Y09dLjInI_VFStGPsefxfPl6yTooLlfbRi0ANkWGpJUKnaZqgGEtVs9yDOMROxSuDUn-xe2Ss59PeRYaB7iKsTuAe-j1L6FxZbvjriM_7z5YxozO30XmBliRmOyzqX4M1XPw9Xkekkg) Jeffrey Betts, CEO of MMT, knows when to take photos at the right moment. His photo collections grew to the point that he knows he needs to share them with others to avoid letting them waste away. In 2014, Betts started MMT, a site that provides free photos under the CC0 license. MMT Stock offers new high-quality images for free every week while making sure users can use and even redistribute them. The free stock photo website offers categories that include workspaces, city lifestyle, nature, and more. Website: [mmtstock.com](https://mmtstock.com/) ## **17) Life of Pix** Leeroy Advertising Agency boasts an outstanding group of talented photographers who believe in having fun with their craft. Life of Pix contains an incredible collection of photos from all around the world. The site includes a complex structure with features like the photographer of the week, giving their homegrown group a competitive boost and extra recognition. Life of Pix allows people to use their photos because they belong to the public domain. With no copyright restrictions for use, Life of Pix’s beautiful collection can help others with their creative projects and more. However, mass distribution remains illegal. Website: [lifeofpix.com](https://www.lifeofpix.com/) ## **18) Jay Mantri** If you are looking for the best free photos for backgrounds and wallpapers, Jay Mantri is the place where you can find them. The site releases over seven photos every week under the CC0 license. The photo subject mostly contains dramatic scenes from areas over the world. The site encourages people to download their images and edit them however they want. Website: [jaymantri.com](https://jaymantri.com/) ## **19) ISO Republic** The ISO Republic wants to provide high-quality photos for designers, bloggers, social media creative teams, developers, and many more. The website offers unique sets of images that are easy to navigate through. The site also contains categories to help people find what they need at a fast rate. Users will have free access to more exclusive pictures when they register to its membership, giving them a way to send them to their e-mail addresses almost every week. Website: [isorepublic.com](https://isorepublic.com/) ## **20) New Old Stock** ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KcHR6Hm0Jw_qsmzEgL2UHNFIcEapvOwqJQGLU4ePhiaAYDgj6rvP3T8pxA640ZgyGbBI6q7N3iiWTME6_Cp-ksB4MMQeBYInTVBAUMG4UJ2afFMkUR-guDLYgrap1BlQwgvA_auixIlTbpVVHQ) Many free stock photo sites only have content that is trending, which means that vintage and black-and-white pictures are not available. New Old Stock focuses on giving people excellent photos, which may be helpful to specific users craving for black and white content. Although some images need recognition, most of them are available for non-commercial purposes. The site also offers paid membership for its stunning photos. Website: [nos.twnsnd.co](https://nos.twnsnd.co/) ## **21) Epicantus** Daria Nepriakhina is a visual graphic designer that creates stunning images. She knows how hard it is to catch up to deadlines, which is why she created Epicantus. The free stock photo site boasts ready-to-use edited images for business owners, bloggers, graphic designers, and more. The site’s best content contains a lot of pictures that have awe-inspiring aerial views of the world and captured moments of people during their daily work routine. Website: [epicantus.tumblr.com](http://epicantus.tumblr.com/) ## **22) Styled Stock** ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/dL43pBCmsFPFD3FKbsyBtfk7B0uSzJ7dXsHfw0CvboL88sOSw7590S8ZUKZEvKJeNiVqOz39AFfQm7kyJxmkolPTBxXyo-aQkvPJlsW2w2CbwT5G7L-KcZR7wN8mEmLshVGqDUIZQY1G1jiOfw) Styled Stock boasts a collection of images that contain feminine content. Its chic atmosphere provides female entrepreneurs and bloggers a place where they can browse through pictures and find a suitable picture for their business or blog. The photos are available for commercial and personal use. However, the copyright still belongs to the owner but using their photos require no attribution. Website: [styledstock.co](https://styledstock.co/) ## **23) Hubspot** Hubspot understands the importance of visual content in marketing strategies but is also aware that attribution, licensing, and purchase stand in the way of finding a high-quality image. Because of this situation, Hubspot released 75 free stock photos for the public. Unexpectedly, Hubspot’s popularity rose and gave it the push to produce 160 more stock business photos for free. Users can mass download the pictures and use it for whatever purpose they like. Website: [https://offers.hubspot.com/most-searched-for-free-stock-photos](https://offers.hubspot.com/most-searched-for-free-stock-photos) ## **24) Fancy Crave** The remarkable photos in Fancy Crave are mouthwatering enough that users will want to take them as their own. However, Fancy Crave photographers only ask that users provide attribution for their work, but what they do with their pictures is up to them. With new photos available daily, Fancy Crave remains one of the best resources of free yet high-quality images for everyone. Website: [fancycrave.com](http://fancycrave.com/) ## **25) Picography** For three years, Picography has been one of the best sources for high-resolution photos. The site’s pictures are available for the public under the CC0 license. Its founder Dave Meier and his team of photographers ensure users that they will get the best content possible. You may also subscribe to Picography’s newsletter to receive updates on the latest uploaded photos for free. Website: [picography.co](https://picography.co/) ## Bottom line So there you have it, those are the main stock photo sites that allow you to download images for free (sometimes with and sometimes without attribution) Now you can use this images to make any creative banners you need, such as your [Facebook cover photo](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/). Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## The 5 Best Password Managers In 2026 [Features And Pricing] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/ Published: 2022-03-08 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* Almost all of the pages that you visit frequently will require you to create an account so you can access the possibilities.  Whether we’re talking about bank accounts, social media profiles, emails, dating apps, work-related tools, or anything else basically- you will need a password.  Now, when it comes to this many passwords people usually do one of three things.  They either try to memorize several different passwords and always forget them or mix them up, they choose very easy to remember and hackable passwords, or they use the same password for all their accounts. Neither of these options is ideal, especially when it comes to important accounts connected to your finances and personal information.  The stakes are high since hacking these accounts can lead to stealing your money or identity theft which you have to think about. That is why there is an easier way to handle all of your passwords nowadays, with the use of password managers.  In this article, I will write about several of the best password managers in 2026 and their pros and cons.  ## 1\. LastPass ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u41GG5SOUlHsKNmdAgzg7LsStlRkJ-OVYbY2PEeavo_RzBkeRuIG52oHPB1A8MRwO4pY6HuU4N_lkHdlkKTtFqpKr-Cg3Gs6HqeJ8aMQfZ22uaIhIogXWQ6pc0mGSkNsFHWmsK7b) *Most important features:*  1. Works with: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iPhone, and iPad.  2. Browser extensions: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Edge, and Opera. 3. Multi-factor authentication  4. Free version  5. Easy to use  [LastPass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) is one of the most well-known password managers for some time now. It is quite easy to use and it is accessible on a lot of devices and browsers which makes it a good choice for a lot of people. Once you [create an account](https://www.lastpass.com/?utm_source=impact-radius&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=affiliate-program&irgwc=1&clickid=xdj0hSw3YxyOTg%3AwUx0Mo3EWUkix6l2Vi0U6wo0) you can save all the login credentials from all the sites that you are using.  After that, [LastPass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) helps you delete that information from your device so it can be completely safe.  It pushes you to clean up your tracks as an extra step to only remember your master password.  [LastPass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) offers a lot of features that can be extremely helpful to anybody, but especially people who have work-related important accounts that they have to keep secure at all times. Additionally to the already mentioned features, [LastPass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) offers: 1. Multiple identities  2. Free credit monitoring  3. Very helpful auto-fill feature  4. Encryption of your information and storing it on cloud servers  5. Password generator for unique passwords With all these features, you can easily use [LastPass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) on different computers and share your passwords with other people.  There are a lot of other authentication options and extremely good tech support. Moreover, you can sync your information with mobile devices as well.  The company keeps working on constant updates to keep up with keeping your information safe and secure.  When it comes to pricing, for personal usage the normal account is free but it comes with limited features.  The premium account costs only $3/month, and it’s billed for a whole year or $36.  With the premium account, you get additional features like emergency access, one-to-many sharing, advanced multi-factor options, priority tech support, [LastPass](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/lastpass/) for applications, and 1GB encrypted file storage.  In addition to the personal accounts, there is an opportunity for business accounts for anywhere between 1 and 100 licenses with the price of $48 per license and all the free and premium features and more.  For the need of more than 100 licenses, you should contact the company directly.  Also Read: [Best Productivity Tools in 2026](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) ## 2\. Dashlane ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-v3TBS00XlD4SNIRq8kN-PlKTAzQFTXn-EwFOSXa21EDjstpVqNvIQHnE3BMBASk0wLqw9UrQx-Bg-16F681tV2Ro23GxuGQI94vlLWnPlWWU7jpHKZSMEnoKLO5dukC7YulPQ3M) Most important features: 1. Works with: Windows, MacOS, Android, iPhone, and iPad  2. Browser extensions: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Edge, and Opera. 3. Free option for one device and 50 passwords 4. Two-factor identification 5. Changes almost all passwords instantly  Dashlane is an intuitive tool that can change almost all of your passwords instantaneously with just a few clicks. The [website interface](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) is very interactive and the best feature is the one that allows you to change passwords in bulk so it’s fast and easy.  You can literally change hundreds of passwords in a span of seconds which is an amazing thing especially in a time when you think there is a security breach to some of your profiles.  Dashlane allows users to store passwords locally within the encrypted vault and it gives the opportunity for password syncing throughout all of your devices.  Other than the fact that you can get for free up to 50 accounts with multi-factor authentication, you can also get all kinds of storing information and filling out forms automatically. Some other features that Dashlane offers are:  1. A possibility of synchronizing across different devices  2. Monitors the dark web for data breaches 3. Sends you alerts that are personalized in times of a data breach 4. The only U.S patented password manager with the strongest encryption  5. Password generator 6. VPN for browsing the web more securely via Wi-Fi hotspots When it comes to the prices of the plans, there are a few options besides the free one that I previously mentioned with its limited features.  If you want to access the premium account for personal use, it would cost you €3.33/ month, and is billed annually.  For that price, you will get unlimited passwords, unlimited devices, form and payment autofill, securely sharing unlimited accounts, personalized security alerts, two-factor authentication, dark web monitoring and alerts, and VPN for wifi protection.  If you want a business profile, the price is €4/month per user and it’s billed annually.  What you get with the business plan is all the features of premium without the VPN.  Also, smart spaces for work and personal data, admin console for user and policy management, secure password sharing, seamless provisioning and deployment, added security with 2FA integration, and customer success manager for 50+ users. ## 3\. Keeper  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/rFjTjYS-b0jU548OcclCX3lF0KAB2A2RrJ8pOibpWDaIwA7DeWiWOOICavOV4S66S1vupnBXHkFo5IujPLDdb4-Wwv0e8RWmlcnp8njjvLLaf_7bIMh8vMqN32F_ODWFqpUjt8uO) Most important features:  1. Works with: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iPhone, and iPad.  2. Browser extensions:  Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Edge, and Opera. 3. Free limited version for one device  4. Two-factor authentication  5. Easy to use  Keeper is another well-known password manager that offers a lot for its users.  The [website interface is robust](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/), and it offers all the necessary features to be a good password manager.  The best feature of Keeper is their extreme security that might be the best amongst all the other  password managers.  The premium service that they offer is generally cheaper than the previously mentioned password managers.  Keeper decided to focus on the enhanced security as their top-priority feature, and on that expense, it doesn’t have a bulk password changer.  Also, there are no pin-accessing mobile devices for the same reason. You can have a fingerprint of face recognition, but if your phone doesn’t have those features then you will have to use the main master password every time. Additional features that Keeper offers are:  1. For additional payment, they offer to monitor the internet for unauthorised usage of your personal data  2. Secure messaging service  3. Great flexibility regarding what data you can store  4. Custom fields for passport info, driver’s license, other records  5. Scalable  6. Restoring previous versions of your records when needed  7. Emergency password access for five different contacts  When it comes to pricing, they have different plans for personal, family, business, enterprise, and even students.  If you are interested in the personal plan, the price is $2.49 per month, paid annually for the password manager.  If you want only the private messenger, the price is $1.66 per month, paid annually.  If you are interested in a bundle of both of these things then the price is $4.99 per month paid annually and in addition, you get BreachWatch Dark Web Monitoring Secure File Storage. When it comes to the business account, there are a few options.  The simple business account is priced $2.50 per month per user paid annually. For that price, you will get an encrypted vault for every user, folders and subfolders, shared team folders, access from unlimited devices, policy engine and enforcements, security audit, activity reporting, and team management.  The enterprise plan has all that included plus additional features and it’s $3.75 per month, per user, paid annually.  ## 4\. 1Password ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/LTvixpf5KLpAYVKngm9e0L7PRclj4-U13rIO-JHPtafH9Q1n5IJ-bxVXKNWjsxf4jKs8bWQzZ9HFmsnZsQZU6o_deNWTO1SDe8DzAIVemzmiD-CQQdPNzLfEqmtzhymKPhXKj8YM) Most important features:  1. Works with: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, iPhone and iPad.  2. Browser extensions: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge and Opera. 3. Two-factor authentication  4. Free version for one device  5. Easy to use  1Password in the beginning was a password solution only for Apple, but it has broadened its approach.  The best features about 1Password that distinguishes it from the other similar tools is the number of extras you can get.  Although the main function is managing passwords, 1Password can also be used as an authentication app for added security.  The way it works is it creates a secret key to the encryption key it uses. This means that not a single person will be able to decrypt your passwords if they don’t know the key. The only problem with this is that in a situation where you lose this key, nobody can decrypt your passwords. Not even 1Password.  Another good possibility when using 1Password is that you can integrate it with other mobile apps. This means that 1Password will autofill the passwords in these integrated apps. One of the best tricks that 1Password has up its sleeve is the travel mode which enables you to delete whatever sensitive information you have before you travel somewhere, and then you can restore that data with just a click afterwards.  When it comes to pricing, 1Password offers the usual persona/family and business accounts.  The personal account will cost you $2.99 per month billed annually, and the family account will cost you $4.99 per month billed annually.  The features that you will get are:  1. Unlimited passwords, items  2. 1 GB document storage  3. 24/7 email support 4. 365 day item history to restore deleted passwords 5. Travel Mode 6. Two-factor authentication  For the family package, you have all of those plus the ability to invite up to five guests for limited sharing, sharing passwords, credit cars, secure notes with other members, managing what members can do and see, recovering accounts of locked out members of the family, and more.  If you are interested in having a business account, it will cost $7.99 per month per user, for teams $3.99 per month per user, and for enterprise you will get a custom quote.  Relevant: [Wix or Squarespace – which one should you choose?](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) ## 5\. Bitwarden  ![](/images/posts/inline/1e5bdc26-screenshot-bitwarden.com-2020.07.08-22_30_53.png) Most important features:  1. Works with: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iPhone and iPad.  2. Browser extensions: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Opera, Vivaldi, Brave and Tor Browser. 3. Free version available 4. Two-factor authentication  5. Generates TOTP codes for 2FA-supporting sites. Bitwarden offers you an open source password manager for free.  An open-source password manager means that the code is available on GitHub and open for people to evaluate.  Signing in is very easy, you just need an email address and a master password.  Then, you can create items manually that consist of secure information like credit cards, identity documentation, etc.  Bitwarden offers a password generator as well, and it has an autofill of your passwords on all browsers including Tor and Brave.  The free version of the tool gives you all the necessary features that you might need, but the premium account sure does offer some extra helpful features.  The features that you will get for free are the following:  1. Access & install all Bitwarden apps 2. Sync all of your devices, no limits! 3. Store unlimited items in your vault 4. Logins, notes, cards, & identities 5. Two-step login (2FA) 6. Secure password generator 7. Self-host your own server (optional) When it comes to the premium account, for the price of $10 per year you get additionally to the free features the following:  1. 1GB encrypted file storage 2. Two-step login w/ YubiKey, U2F, Duo 3. Vault health reports 4. TOTP authenticator storage & gen. 5. Priority customer support For family accounts, the price is $1 per month.  For business accounts, up to two people it’s free. If you need more than that, the price for teams is $5 per month and it includes 5 users. For every additional user it’s extra $2 per month.  For enterprise, the price is $3 per month per user, and there are a lot more features available.  Read: [List of some of the best e-commerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) ## Wrapping up! There are a lot of options out there when it comes to password managers, and most of them are good choices.  Choosing one of the whole lot of them can be nearly impossible and can leave you frustrated.  However, you should first think of what your needs are as an individual or a company before you try to make the right decision. Once you define what you need more specifically, you can see which boxes do the different options tick off.  For example, for personal use of an individual, probably the free versions of any of these password managers will do. But if you are a big team or an enterprise, then the specific features of the plans will play an important role in your decision.  The one thing that is for sure is that everybody needs a password manager in these times when digital security has become so interconnected with band and identity security.  If you found this post helpful, check out these articles for helpful and informative content:  - [A guide to making YouTube videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-youtube-videos/)  - [Understanding the difference between revenue and profit](https://alejandrorioja.com/revenue-vs-profit/)  - [Paypal’s Revenue Model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/)  Leave a comment letting me know what other subjects you would be interested to read about. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Instagram Make Money? 2026 [Revenue, History] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/ Published: 2022-03-07 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: It is estimated that Instagram contributed between $8B-$9B to Facebook’s revenue in 2018, up 70% from last year. Reports mentioned that Instagram makes up around 28.2% of the mobile ad revenue of Facebook. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. I have to confess: I’m addicted to Instagram. It is one of those apps that I constantly find myself mindlessly opening and scrolling through. I also find myself posting a lot more on Instagram than Snapchat these days, specially the raps I make daily. Today, I wanted to explore how does Instagram make money, their revenue plan and a lot of other exciting stuff. ## **Instagram’s Inception** Instagram, owned by Facebook, Inc., is a free social networking application initially intended for sharing photos and eventually, videos. It was developed in San Francisco, California in 2010 by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger. During its initial launch, Instagram was an exclusive iOS application. People with Android devices were able to download the app by April 2012, followed by a web interface in November 2012. Instagram became available for devices running on the Windows operating system in 2016. Users can apply filters, organize with tags, provide location information, and share content on social networking sites like Twitter, Tumblr, and Facebook. Initially, the service only allowed users to frame content in a square (1:1) aspect ratio, but this got eased in 2015. Later on, Instagram also added a messaging feature (the famous DMs), allowed users to include several photos or videos in one post, and recently included “Instagram Stories,” akin to [Snapchat Stories](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/), its primary competitor. ## **History and Funding Rounds** ![instagram design over the years](/images/posts/inline/b83c4222-instagram-design-over-the-years-1.png) #### 2010 Since its launch in 2010, Instagram rapidly gained popularity. Two other funding rounds happened after the founders closed a seed round amounting to approximately $500,000 from Baseline Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz and before its acquisition by Facebook: #### 2011 The company raised $7 million led by Benchmark Capital as well as several other investors which included Twitter’s own Jack Dorsey #### 2012 Just before Facebook acquired it, Instagram closed a $50-million investment with Sequoia Capital, Greylock, Josh Kushner of Thrive Capital, as well as Benchmark, at a $500M valuation. In April of that same year, Facebook acquired Instagram for about $1 billion in cash and stock. So now, let’s get to the money $$$… ![](/images/posts/inline/d3be9b25-instagram-ads-shop-now.jpg) **Instagram’s Holy Grail: Its Advertising Business** The service’s monetization efforts began in October 2013 when it announced that US users would start to see video and image ads appearing in between photos in the news feed. During the early stages, there weren’t a lot of brands allowed to advertise. In November 2013, image ads officially began appearing in users’ feeds, while video advertisements came in on October 2014. By March 2015, Instagram announced that it would allow advertisers to purchase “carousel ads.” This feature enables brands to post up to five photos that any user may swipe through, and with options at the end for more content or visit the website of the brand. Given the initial success of carousel ads, Instagram began allowing advertisers to post videos in carousel ads in 2016. During that same year, the service announced the launch of various new tools intended for a business account, which now includes new business profiles, insights, and analytics, as well as the capability to immediately turn your post directly into ads from the Instagram app. At that time, the service had about 200,000 advertisers on the platform. The number of active advertisers increased to 500,000 in September 2016, and to a million in March 2017. In just six months since then, Instagram’s roster of advertisers rose to two million.   It is estimated that Instagram [contributed](https://www.recode.net/2018/10/9/17938356/facebook-instagram-future-revenue-growth-kevin-systrom) between $8B-$9B to [Facebook’s revenue in 2018](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/), up 70% from last year. Reports mentioned that Instagram makes up around 28.2% of the mobile ad revenue of Facebook. ## **How Instagram Helps Facebook Dominate The Social Media Space** Instagram is such a powerful platform that carries a lot of value for brands, making it a very lucrative investment. With people coming to Instagram each day to share their lives, they continue to spend more time on a platform that produces and explores content, particularly mobile video. Time spent watching video through the service increased to more than 80% year over year, while the total number of produced videos each day also increased to 4x from the previous year. While Instagram benefits from its association with Facebook as advertisers get to use similar tools when buying ads, the service is also a common advertising option because of its strictly images platform given that social media marketers tend to spend a lot of time coming up with images than other types of content. ### **Competing With Snapchat** ![stories](/images/posts/inline/e1fe8fa8-ig-stories.png) In August 2018, a report was released indicating that Snapchat’s daily numbers [shrunk approximately 1.5%](https://www.recode.net/2018/8/7/17661756/snap-earnings-snapchat-q2-instagram-user-growth) to 188 million from 191 million during the previous quarter, with Instagram implementing similar features. At that time, Snapchat lost about 3 million of its daily active users as it lost ground in the second quarter of 2018 to Instagram. Instagram launched the Stories feature back in 2016 to compete directly with Snapchat. This feature, as well as Snapchat’s, allows users to post quick videos that are only viewable for a certain period (24 hours). The revenue of Snapchat was high at 44% to about $262 million from $182 million during the same period last year, and it trimmed net losses by approximately 20% to $353 million in the second quarter of 2018 versus its net loss in Q2 2017 of about $443 million. Snapchat is also blaming the backlash it received when it redesigned its app, prompting about 1.2 million users to petition for the company to revert to its previous layout. It was explained by Evan Spiegel, the company’s co-founder and chief executive, that Snapchat was aiming to [separate “social” from “media”](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-5361959/Snapchat-redesign-creates-personalised-experience.html) when it did the revamp. In the recent version, users will see stories, snaps, and messages from their friends are grouped on the page to the left of the main camera’s screen, whereas stories from various publishers are available on a new page called Discover, located at the right side of the camera screen. As for Instagram’s numbers, they remain very strong, dwarfing the stagnant growth rates of Snapchat. In June 2018, the service announced that it reached a billion monthly active users, after it passed 800 million back in September 2017, with about 500 million daily users. ![Statistic: Number of monthly active Instagram users from January 2013 to June 2018 (in millions) | Statista](https://www.statista.com/graphic/1/253577/number-of-monthly-active-instagram-users.jpg) Its daily user count is said to be growing closer to 5% per quarter, versus Snapchat’s which increased about 2.13% during the first quarter of 2018, while Facebook’s monthly count grew by about 3.14% to reach approximately 2.196 billion. Hitting a billion user achievement may also put pressure on Instagram to carry its weight within the Facebook family to rake in more revenue. ## **Here’s How YOU Can Make Money On Instagram** ![kylie jenner instagram ad](/images/posts/inline/c5f31fe4-kylie-jenner-instagram-ad-1024x752.jpg) If by now you’re thinking about the number of followers you’ll need to earn from Instagram, the precise answer is not that many. However, a longer answer depends on several factors which include: - The niche you are in and how easy can you directly tie that to a particular product category like food, fitness, fashion, or beauty. All these come with popular hashtags - How engaged your current followers are - The revenue channels you want to explore While a lot of notable Instagrammers earn thousands for each of their posts on the platform, even those people who have smaller but have more engaged following will have the potential to start making money on Instagram. Once you’ve figured out your niche, potential products, and the engagement of your followers, the most common approach to monetize Instagram is by working with different brands on sponsored posts. You can also create your own brand of products and sell those to your followers. For instance, this is what I did with my account [@youngslacker](http://instagram.com/youngslacker) and the portable charger [Flux Chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/). And no, you don’t need to get verified on IG to start making money. ## **Conclusion** In the last couple of years, the social media platform Instagram has gone a long way from being the brainchild of its founders to an app used by billions of people (1 Billion users in 2018) which is changing not only the purpose of photos and videos but also as to how people put up content. While Facebook doesn’t release the specific revenue amount brought in by Instagram, that number is expected to be $8 for 2018 and growing at about 15% each year. If you liked this post, share it with a fellow IG addict that might be curious about how Instagram makes it money. Here are how other social media giants make money: - [Snapchat’s monetization strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/): Can they compete with Instagram? - Facebook makes OVER 98% from [one source alone](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/)! Read this to find out what it is - [Whatsapp’s path to revenue](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/) and why they are worth $19B - Have you heard of [Discord](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/)? Also, don’t forget to add me on The ‘Gram [@YoungSlacker](http://instagram.com/youngslacker). --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How does Twitter make money? 2026 [Revenue Facts] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-twitter-make-money/ Published: 2022-03-06 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business TL;DR: Carter now has more than 95K followers and is known as the Chicken nugget guy. Memes and joking aside, Twitter as a platform has had a huge impact on the world. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. It has been more than 13 years since the first tweet was ever tweeted by Jack Dorsey (one of the founders and today’s CEO). > just setting up my twttr > > — jack (@jack) [March 21, 2006](https://twitter.com/jack/status/20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) Since then, Twitter has been constantly growing into one of the most influential and used platforms in today’s world. ([Follow me @riojaalejandro](https://twitter.com/RiojaAlejandro)!) From its beginnings till now, Twitter has given a voice to many people and according to the CEO that was the purpose of it. Making everybody on the same level in terms of sharing their opinions. In some ways, [Twitter](https://flux.la/using-twitter-expand-business/) connected people through content that is much more relevant than on other platforms.  Celebrities, businesses, politicians, spokespeople—everybody gets closer to the people while interacting with their ideas and beliefs through the platform. We all remember Ellen DeGeneres Oscar selfie that is still considered to be the most famous selfie in the world. > If only Bradley's arm was longer. Best photo ever. [#oscars](https://twitter.com/hashtag/oscars?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) [pic.twitter.com/C9U5NOtGap](http://t.co/C9U5NOtGap) > > — Ellen DeGeneres (@EllenDeGeneres) [March 3, 2014](https://twitter.com/EllenDeGeneres/status/440322224407314432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) However, I’m sure you know as well that Twitter is extremely amusing when it comes to memes, famous controversies, companies marketing efforts, etc. We are still trying to figure out what the President of America wanted to say with #Covfefe.  One of the most retweeted posts was tweeted in 2017 and it was just a random guy called Carter Wilkerson ([@carterjwm](https://twitter.com/carterjwm)) tagged Wendy’s into a tweet asking how many retweets he needs to collect for a year of free chicken nuggets. Little did he know that Wendy’s will reply giving him an exact number of 18 million retweets. To this day, the tweet has been retweeted 3.4 million times! Amazing, right?  > HELP ME PLEASE. A MAN NEEDS HIS NUGGS [pic.twitter.com/4SrfHmEMo3](https://t.co/4SrfHmEMo3) > > — Carter Wilkerson (@carterjwm) [April 6, 2017](https://twitter.com/carterjwm/status/849813577770778624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) That is the gist of Twitter, everybody can be relevant in some way, and you can get there in a pretty funny way! Carter now has more than 95K followers and is known as the Chicken nugget guy. Memes and joking aside, Twitter as a platform has had a huge impact on the world. It has been the place where many modern revolutions were born, and it has been the place where people tore apart entire regimes like in the case of Arab Spring. It is [so influential](https://soinfluential.com/) that in 2012 and 2015 Twitter won the Crunchie award for Biggest Social Impact by Techcrunch. (learn [how to get featured on big publications](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/)) So, Twitter is a social media platform that has an enormous reach, potential to go viral, [expand your business](https://flux.la/using-twitter-expand-business/), and extremely high social impact which is why it is continuously growing. But it is free, and there are no major ads on Twitter, so how does it earn its money? ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8KGZXDhW2WNIjoty58SKSO2jm-Zg0i4FtgCt9ZQhZ3TiGWbZnK5XH0njOQxTp1v-P3_fvn72WdFpVAeNZYxSSsgYoQABsxRguLxZZXETRxxjvNEgmb29QxYXBFh1dN8Msra8rJAP) [](https://pixabay.com/photos/twitter-screen-social-phone-1795652/) ## Beginnings of Twitter Twitter was built more than a decade ago using a web-app framework called Ruby on Rails that uses the programming language Ruby. It was designed by Biz Store and Evan Williams who previously worked at [Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/). They had a podcasting venture called Odeo, and Evan Williams previously had the blogging tool Blogger.  Twitter started when Evan tried to experiment with an SMS or a short message service that was initially called Twttr. When he saw that his experiments may have a huge potential for the future, he got Jack Dorsey on his team and they created the final version of Twitter. After it was online, the platform received plenty of venture capital investments. From its beginnings, Twitter was a free platform and even after it got quite famous it was still lacking a way of turning its popularity into revenue. *No membership fees, no banner ads, no revenue at all.* A few years into, Twitter became so relevant that it was obvious to the team that they had to figure out a way to monetize on this platform.  All this time, Twitter was operating from the venture capital investments that it was receiving. Then, in 2010 Twitter found a way to include advertisements in their feed known as “Promoted Tweets” which became of the main sources of revenue for the company. To date, Twitter makes money 3 ways: 1. Promoted Tweets 2. Promoted Accounts and Hashtags 3. Data Licensing ## 1\. Promoted Tweets *Promoted Tweets* are normal tweets that are used as ads for entities that want to reach a specific audience or a wider one. They can also be used to inspire engagement from the already existing followers and not necessarily target new ones.  These types of tweets are letting you know that they are promoted and that is the only difference between then and usual tweets. You can engage with them in the same way you would any other tweet. Promoted tweets can be seen on multiple places in your Twitter feed: - Your timeline - User profiles - At the top of your search results - In search results for promoted trend - Official Twitter clients ### How do they work? Twitter is treading carefully with the usage of Promoted Tweets. They are displayed only once and when you continue to scroll down the Promoted Tweets go up the feed just like any other tweet. If you don’t want to see them, there is an option to hide it and stop future promoted tweets of that type to be shown to you. The way that they work is an advertiser pays for the placement of these Promoted Tweets and they are shown to people. Simple as that. Basically, any person can start a Twitter Ads campaign and choose a specific goal according to what they are trying to achieve. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/yKPRKMiDI6JsGIEW0MEE6w3SakLtbDkbLbxuErbDV2gYgqr0QuDsqos63yp_g2gJFUuUBYwOzfPZlrV9BuuIzHM-aD4VadWZcbXjYVRjBw4JUC_3XVVBxd7YCInAfzg1EEqYRrt9) There are strict rules and policies about these promoted tweets campaigns and not everybody can use them. Twitter tries hard to be a safe place for everybody, so a lot of topics are forbidden, and a lot of them are restricted. Thinks like adult content, political content, alcohol, and tobacco content, etc. are strictly forbidden.  For example, the CEO recently replied to all the people asking about the “edit” button, that they will likely never do it. The reason behind this is that somebody might retweet something, and afterward, the person can change the content of the tweet entirely making all the people that retweeted having something on their profiles that they do not agree with. They are for sure threading very carefully with how this huge platform is being used. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZaVoWaz5cYcdSjLwXXK2jtLRvmCSqKdjcTFpahdLvlY5JFx-hDOREZFgU5IpbDwXpB-NOWCtbEhMkjNZJZWTCmM6iDjDZ77SQDfmeUlX0sXO-AoDL4daIQZ0B3voBY9V-nC4ydr6)  [](https://pixabay.com/photos/cell-phone-phone-mobile-phone-1245663/) ## 2\. Promoting Accounts and hashtags On the exact same principle, you can promote entire accounts and hashtags instead of simple tweets. The procedure is almost the same, and it works in the same way as the promoted tweets. Hashtags are of great importance when it comes to [SEO tricks.](https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks/)  Let’s talk numbers for a while to explain how much money exactly Twitter earns from these promotional activities. The majority of Twitter’s revenue comes from advertising as I previously mentioned. In percentage, more than 85% of their revenue is from ads. And that is a huge number.  Written down in specific sums, in 2018 Twitter claimed revenue from advertising of staggering 2.61 billion dollars which was then a 24% increase from the previous year. And this got even better for the company in 2019, since as Twitter reported they got 679 million dollars only in the first quarter of the year. This meant, an 18% increase from the previous year. ## **3.** **Data licensing and other sources** Other than their biggest revenues from advertising, the other 14% comes from data licensing and other sources. In the early days of the platform, this revenue was 425 million dollars which was a 27% increase from the previous year. For 2019, Twitter stated that they made 107 million dollars only in the first quarter which is a 20% increase from the previous year. ### How does it work? First of all, if you don’t know what Data licensing means it is basically Twitter selling subscriptions to public data to entities that want to “access, search and analyze historical and real-time data” on Twitter. Basically, they are selling the data that they have access to and this is done in two levels premium and enterprise. I guess it’s true what they say that data is the new oil. They are selling a firehose of more than 500 million tweets on a daily basis to multiple companies. These companies that get the data usually use it for analysis on what’s trendy, [predictions in trends](https://flux.la/ui-trends/), relevant news, and even in some cases for trading purposes.  The purpose of selling this data to companies so they can turn it into some kind of actionable data, and that is why they are willing to pay a lot of money for it. That is the reason why this type of revenue has been increasing over time. ## Current revenue numbers for Twitter Here you can see how much Twitter make on each quarter of 2018 and 2019. ](https://www.statista.com/statistics/274568/quarterly-revenue-of-twitter/) ## Predictions for the future Apparently, after Twitter did not improve a lot in regards to their platform in the past periods, certain investors are backing out. Manager Josh Brown sold his shares of the microblogging platform after questioning the ability of Twitter to bring the platform to the next level. This happened after the CEO of Twitter revealed that his plan is to live in Africa for six months every year.  [](https://www.tradingview.com/symbols/NYSE-TWTR/) [new TradingView.widget( { "autosize": true, "symbol": "NYSE:TWTR", "interval": "D", "timezone": "Etc/UTC", "theme": "Light", "style": "2", "locale": "en", "toolbar\_bg": "#f1f3f6", "enable\_publishing": false, "hide\_top\_toolbar": true, "save\_image": false, "container\_id": "tradingview\_ba494" } );](https://www.tradingview.com/symbols/NYSE-TWTR/) [ Looked from another perspective, the people backing down from the shares of the company are making some space for new opportunities for the people interested in taking a piece of the cake. Following the past years’ success that Twitter is having, 2020 is looking like it’s not going to be any different.  In fact, the Bank of America is expecting to see a 15% increase in the revenue from digital advertising in 2020 and gives a sum of 342 billion dollars that will be spent on it throughout the year. The simple fact is Twitter’s user base is growing more and more, which means that Twitter is still becoming more relevant. Besides all of this, Twitter still has some problems that it’s still facing like: - Smaller user base than the competition - Low engagement of the users - Negative profits - Overvalued stocks The biggest problem is the negative profits since it makes the whole business model of the company not profitable. The model needs to be upgraded and changed—some changes are maybe coming this year. Liked this post? Read how other tech giants make money: ](https://www.tradingview.com/symbols/NYSE-TWTR/) [](https://www.tradingview.com/symbols/NYSE-TWTR/)- [](https://www.tradingview.com/symbols/NYSE-TWTR/)[How does FB make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [Where does Google revenue come from?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) - [How does Robinhood make money from $0 trades?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/) Drop a comment below telling me which company you want me to cover next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Fix The Browsing Error "Your Connection is Not Private"? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-your-connection-is-not-private-error/ Published: 2022-03-06 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Scripts ## Table of contents One of Google’s online safety precautions consists of a system that protects you from unsecured sites. Whenever you encounter such sites, the system jumps in in your defense. Though it registers as an error, the ‘Your Connection Is Not Private’ alert serves as a warning. When the system thinks you’re about to make a mistake and open a suspicious site, it puts a hold on the connection until you clear it. Most of the time, this is a defense to have. However, on some occasions, the system will intercept trusted sources. When this happens, it’s helpful to understand how to settle this problem yourself.  In today’s guide, I will show you how to fix this problem. This solution works as of May 2026. Before we dive in, here’s a video to help you understand this system error: ## What The Error Means ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/evBg-dLmktOn3CkBWDwgZLhjuGBSL4w4HNJ8UrBcAowDgw2FOwIuxz1G_fX2XZ7chEVKNuWPPuVs3d-LxvkQP_CwzwYjbG-0-ESPXy9-ZpP4NDKbZYbM2XP3_45ioFYBI_D3l9wV) Now, let’s break down what exactly it means. Before you connect to a site, the browser has to run a security check to verify the site’s digital certificates (SSL certificates). This ensures that the [site’s privacy standards](https://cryptotim.es/analytics-company-reports-that-crypto-primarily-used-for-privacy-only-8-linked-to-illegal-activities/) are updated, and thus, you’re safe online. If you don’t have an antivirus or encryption installed, then your device is a gold mine for hackers. So, if your browser encounters an oddity in the certificates, it’ll block access to the site. And so the warning “Your connection is not private” will pop up.  The certificates are also called identity certificates or in some cases, public key infrastructure. These authenticate the website’s identity and ensure all transactions are kept confidential. Identify certificates safe-keep your passwords personal data as well as banking and payment data. ### The risk Google gives you the option to ignore its warning and manually connect to the site. But if you did, what would happen?  A bad certificate means your information won’t be protected from encryption. Where login credentials or banking details are shared, this becomes a big problem. Your data could be stolen if you proceed without caution, and here’s [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kateoflahertyuk/2020/03/31/are-your-zoom-chats-private-heres-why-you-should-think-before-opening-the-app/)‘ take on that. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/v9aX0-8MREfHt9ReSwSOVjdFiUdN91Tdfz_FGU6BcXbkt3QaseI_8MUdzwvAFBmQvoov0DHJYjy8ssk860zZLe5zbaY_2s6-fl9CyUCkWhN3gWEdLJZz4ddJS5t7-LPV1PVF9rdN) ### What is SSL Anyway? Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificates serve websites over trusted HTTPS connections. This is a security roadblock used in authorizing safe connections and data protection.  SSL server connection errors occur when your browser cannot find a safe way to open the page you’ve requested.  These errors could arise due to several reasons: 1. An expired or missing certificate 2. Outdated [browser needing an update](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/). 3. The settings for time and date on your antivirus are wrong  4. Your server has a problem (you’ll have to await for the correction to be made by the owner) ## What the Error Appears Like On Different Browsers? Upon receiving the error notification, you will be taken to another page. Variations like warning signs (locked padlocks), codes, and simple notifications are used by different browsers to alert users.  Variations based on several factors exist. These include the web browser type, the operating system, and even the configuration of the certificate on the servers. And while some of these errors sometimes mean slightly different things, a lot of times, the troubleshooting steps are the same. ### Google Chrome ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/3BJnK24e_qpia2-nJRat9DIOiJTdWltVf8xV6628LMownat9tCIpJ-2EiyWzPCIF4aE84hbbD7ES2X_NKVKNCzzxpgS2tdYwtqFndfaW4rJewnrtNR6sU2NrzDY-C8TaC3V9aTr4) In Google Chrome, after you get the error notification, you’ll be taken to a privacy error page. After that, it will display a big red exclamation point with the message “Your connection is not private.”  You’ll be cautioned that attackers may be attempting to hack into and copy your passwords, texts, or cards information from domain.com. The notice then affords you the option to return to the previous page, proceed to advanced settings, or ignore and pursue connecting to the website. This is also accompanied by the error code message which helps to try and pinpoint the exact issue. Below are just a couple of the more common error codes you might see in Google Chrome: ERR\_CERT\_SYMANTEC\_LEGACY NET::ERR\_CERT\_AUTHORITY\_INVALID NET::ERR\_CERT\_COMMON\_NAME\_INVALID (this occurs when the certificate does not match the domain) NET::ERR\_CERT\_WEAK\_SIGNATURE\_ALGORITHM NTE::ERR\_CERTIFICATE\_TRANSPARENCY\_REQUIRED NET::ERR\_CERT\_DATE\_INVALID SSL certificate error ERR\_SSL\_VERSION\_OR\_CIPHER\_MISMATCH ### Mozilla Firefox ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I2yhoSKrmY7QJlfCmFZ6-AW456PaUZFQFCQRN0qYGkjswEzo5p_tNz_1JkIZUM2nGl_wWy-muP2od8YtBrqNlRW4Lakf3MFdSj-ru9t9cFAkhB6OmnE1jBcZXuWrawhT6y6S8JP0) The message from Mozilla Firefox is almost the same except where they interchange “private,” with “Your connection is not secure” and it informs you that the owner has misconfigured their website. You’ll then be given the option to return or proceed to advanced settings.  General codes you may encounter on Firefox: SEC\_ERROR\_EXPIRED\_CERTIFICATE SEC\_ERROR\_EXPIRED\_ISSUER\_CERTIFICATE  SEC\_ERROR\_UNKNOWN\_ISSUER. SEC\_ERROR\_OCSP\_INVALID\_SIGNING\_CERT  MOZILLA\_PKIX\_ERROR\_MITM\_DETECTED MOZILLA\_PKIX\_ERROR\_ADDITIONAL\_POLICY\_CONSTRAINT\_FAILED SSL\_ERROR\_BAD\_CERT\_DOMAIN ERROR\_SELF\_SIGNED\_CERT ### Safari Browser ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/6KLWsHxwxZh_c1gF9-M3IprAxHhbspCfVjNrkNcsNxpqXgaVp4xa00ecZ7aEG7__XHVv6bU3QwMJ7A7wfx45Q_0IYQEqxMkw3Xnzz-p8aqT-BVr8WgDcn_MhCGeRDKXIa5esS0yP) With Safari, the message you’ll get will simply read “This Connection is Not Private.” This website might be impersonating “domain.com” to capture your private or online payment information. You should go back to the previous page. ### MS Edge Browser ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/3IXTDOk6NEHxYe5gMNa3AYUurMLmHwVm74whFc_qFQnKhj2xoERFTQHRCz4zIa6ly3XACJOoVqQcFJKQy6BZY0OIZhOEiZxKJNwJefzXBe8tj_hCsJ2UU6LjGLovsC_TW5P6Hzd5) In Microsoft Edge, you will also see the error as “Your connection isn’t private.” Attackers might be trying to steal your information from domain.com (for example, passwords, messages, or credit cards). These are also accompanied by an error code message. Below are just a couple of the most common error codes: NET::ERR\_CERT\_COMMON\_NAME\_INVALID (this occurs when the certificate does not match the domain) Error Code: 0 DLG\_FLAGS\_INVALID\_CA DLG\_FLAGS\_SEC\_CERT\_CN\_INVALID ## How to Browse Safely With the understanding you now have, we’ll now discuss the nature of the problem and how you can fix it. ### 1\. Refresh the Page ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Edz6DoHWs9GyD2AyXxAWIWzFxpfMbDNE7SJQm3Ov9Jh3hI8zHqg57ATbzvUepGb3X7NXtvps-ndvCXJyEVZt8o-Y6ykby9ipxZSdKm9KhOFmsY6mdivbqb9pNahLdbFbla4sYvjk) Sometimes the simplest trick is your best option.  Fixing general malfunctions like search engine timeouts, internet network, and clerical errors can swiftly help you settle any issues. ### 2\. Go In Incognito ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tesp49sYnb6iU0bh-tZAH45TD4ntDugOCbHagrcWMxGjwORj3hJhYZNdPZkXKGUZfwYlxsNyYNr4sOcrDNh0MmMP_SjL-uVy-aAZNe8BMSX3V40P78hpkBf6Rt9Fli_8iaJCpCQG) Your next option is to try connecting to the website in incognito mode. If there are security problems, then browsing in incognito will be great since you won’t have to save your search record or cache. [Entrepreneur.com](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/292646) touches on this safer method. However, if the site still registers the error, then you should consider clearing your cache. To access the incognito mode in the Chrome browser, click on the three vertical dots at the top of your screen. Expand the drop-down menu and click on “New incognito window” or alternatively, simultaneously press ctrl+shift+N. ### 3\. Double-Check the Time & Date Ensure that your date and time settings are correct. Whenever they’re mismatched with the browser, you’ll likely get an SSL connection error. #### Mac Navigation 1. Move your cursor to the Apple menu found in the top left corner on the screen.  2. Select System Preferences. 3. Then choose Date & Time. 4. Check that the time and date are correct. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/N4Am0C-8xopVVaSJT5ZrFurguuiiRMJGhvzpo4VVAsRD36hHVn5wlteM0kg8gMhB3LCp7LJJ_GcmuVs3chK8OBNFfJiu5Z7jjxAqzesJzaQn2a9vP-ReOcia1PZdPOKTT39Dz9mz) #### Windows Navigation 1. On the taskbar, right-click the icon for date and time . 2. Select Adjust date/time. 3. Make sure that the time and date are accurate.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/bYkssLxJNrDrwMSq1OfcNpqmSQot2W-IatWKPeZVTftY4h8NDzrUSUPqEdRDB0L8p4RJGUrCpHpboA0oHySnf8FvWoXQhaEy8OGwz8lb0aajCDABniSvqzE2p9tmNS4TSlMBWAFJ) ### 4\. Erase The Cookies and Search Engine Cache On Your Device ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XM__VUh96CD3U5waFq3xemHJ9Resu56_uhXi4FfGmTHisnrGdyi_vq2hgu0oh2mh-tZ5CMuDFPeNCW4JgnQ2m7w4pX99opwLFXf1TfdDtrshqwcc_ftXGdvsPCBkJjTMabEJzWLo) While browsing, your device saves cookies that accumulate information and occupy a large capacity on your hard drive. As your device attempts to process that data, it is greatly slowed down. So go over to your settings and erase your search engine cache and cookies. Deleting all that data helps boost your connection speed. ### 5\. Public vs. Private Wifi ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HQyWKhZcsJSxgzyd7s-lQFeuTrq_rqpId2CO99aLgFhPOHk4Ap-fABHLHabYJ_hk7d-jXHHvYct8dPOl_TT3PFoSJvty9RgDfTT4u9KajtRcOGRf1xQXqXef2Ca2QsvEuRhNmzDr) Public wifi isn’t secure; as a result, this may trigger a security warning. Most free cafe or airport wifi have weak configurations and so don’t run HTTPS. Whenever you don’t trust how secure your WiFi connection is, seek another network or else use the WiFi back in your home – one you know you can trust. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are your best shot at protecting your information as you use public wifi. VPNs assist you in hiding your traffic and cover your identity as it swaps encrypted information with a faraway server. Try [Surfshark VPN with my discount code here](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/surfshark/). 30 day trial. ### 6\. Take a Look at Your Antivirus or Firewall ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/sNKPHVCF0YZzSuICLj-FBQCeeXpDqxNrDaJCCGykMVpErVWC2k7eREhrc-LLFi_CTyEvLYLT9fUt2attJEsDoX9y_BGiG3w2Vq_ct1rljcuhWWvgQpO3gqpj1_85kRki0cS9xdS0) If an Antivirus is installed on your MacBook or Windows gadget, the reason behind you getting the error warning may be due to the firewall or antivirus overriding your network. To trial this problem, briefly disconnect the SSL scanning tool. ### 7\. Proceed Manually With Care If you still see a “Your connection is not private” text, but you need to access the site regardless, then do so carefully. Your server will display this message and caution you against proceeding for a good reason. Opting to proceed puts your data and payment data at risk of being intercepted and stolen. In all honesty, very few reasons justify taking this risk. ## Wrapping up! With these steps, you should be able to correct or sidestep the “Your connection is not private” error warning. Always keep in mind, though, that the server sends you this message as an attempt to keep your browsing safe.  If you decide to bypass it to access the page you want, bear in mind that you may be risking having your privacy compromised. You could also avail software that you can use to protect your online digital presence. The information you share online has tremendous value, so be vigilant as you browse to make sure that your data doesn’t wind up in corrupt hands. Leave a comment below if you have suggestions on other connectivity issues we could help you with. If this article helped you with connectivity issues you’ve been having, you’ll be glad to know that we have more to help you handle browsing queries: - [How To Find And Validate Someone’s Email (Tips And Tools)](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-find-someones-email/) - [How to Deactivate Or Delete Facebook And Messenger](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) - [Ezoic Review: Features & How To Use For Beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/ezoic-review/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A couple of 2026 updates to the specific advice in this post: - **HTTPS / connection errors** in 2026 browsers: Chrome 130+ and Firefox 130+ both default to HTTPS-only mode, so "your connection is not private" errors are more common — usually a Let's Encrypt cert misconfig or an expired root. Fix is the same as in the post; the visible UI differs. - **GoDaddy email**: the legacy Workspace Email product was migrated to Microsoft 365 for most accounts during 2024–25. If the post references the old IMAP settings, double-check against the M365 endpoints (`outlook.office365.com`). - **Z-Library** continued operating from rotating mirrors and the Anna's Archive umbrella through 2024–26 despite ongoing DOJ enforcement. The legal landscape is unresolved. - **Website source code** still inspected the same way — DevTools, View Source, and Wappalyzer for stack identification. Wappalyzer added AI-stack detection in 2025 (LangChain, LlamaIndex, etc.). --- ## How To Get More Subscribers On YouTube? A 2026 Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-more-subscribers-on-youtube/ Published: 2022-03-06 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: They earned $22 million and $17.5 million, respectively. Shopify recommends investing time, money, and effort to get as many views on your videos to succeed in this industry. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Due to the rising pressures of [job security](https://www.zenefits.com/workest/survey-42-of-employees-worried-about-job-security-due-to-spread-of-coronavirus/) and [college loans](https://studentloanhero.com/student-loan-debt-statistics/), many of us are trying various jobs to succeed financially. One of the most popular ways of earning money is to start your own Youtube channel. This idea is inspired by professionals such as [Ryan’s World](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGJGhZ9SOOHvBB0Y4DOO_w) and [Markiplier](https://www.youtube.com/user/markiplierGAME). They earned $22 million and $17.5 million, respectively. [Shopify](https://www.shopify.com/blog/198134793-how-to-make-money-on-youtube) recommends investing time, money, and effort to get as many views on your videos to succeed in this industry. Sustaining this many views can be done by increasing your subscriber count. After all, the more the subscribers, the more people will share and talk about your videos. In this article, I will show you ten tips on how to get more people to subscribe to your channel.  Before that, do watch the video below to get an idea on how to start and maintain a Youtube channel. ## Tip # 1. Clean your Youtube channel ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oklAN_2ZJDFgQ1pMxoUPFWIav3TQZaEtfnzDCGL2GADw2V-25uW9bqgij3i-aB6ZK_eLUI_aqKT64vssU8Q92uYwsnG5IZJwdktoGVRwZqRNxwOSHmo1KAb1rAFkJ3-sew) You have to perform this step if you already have an existing Youtube channel. The goal of organizing your channel is to make sure you are cultivating a channel that you want your subscribers, viewers, and visitors to come back to. First, you would have to look at your channel as a guest. Then, think about what kind of channel is this based on its content. Second, figure out what parts of the channel should be deleted. For this step, think about which videos you should remove from your channel. Third, choose the videos that you want your viewers to look at and remind you of your channel. This step can be done by promoting them in several ways, which I will explain in this article. Doing this activity every year can help keep your channel fresh and engaging to your audience. ## Tip # 2. Plan your videos right After reorganizing, think about what videos you should publish to keep it the way you want it to be. In this section, I will elaborate on planning to upload your channel’s ideal content. ### Do your research Making the right video starts with knowing what kind of video you should make. Doing this is to visualize how you want your channel to look like towards your subscribers. Making a Youtube video starts with watching other Youtube videos. This action will help you learn how others made theirs enjoyable enough. Think about what its topic is to which person they are trying to entertain or inform. However, if you want to apply any of their techniques on your next video, add it with your unique spin. Doing this will not only make your videos unique but also prevent you from getting plagiarism claims in the future. Also Read: [Picking the right name for your YouTube channel](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-pick-a-youtube-channel-name/) ### Script ahead After learning how you should make your next video, an essential item is a script. Writing the first version is not enough. For it to fit into what your video wants it to be, you should read it and revise it as often during this part of the process. Doing this will help you realize how you can make your video more exciting and unique at the same time. ### Add an intro and outro to your videos Have you noticed that videos from popular YouTubers have an intro and an outro added to their every video? Why do they do this? Adding these to every video will help people recognize you better while making your channel more professional at the same time. There are two ways to make one: go for the budget route or spend big. #### Budget intros and outros You can ask someone on Fiverr to have both made. You can ask for as low as $10 (as you can see in the screenshot below) or go higher. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Zml_pF3bunMwxdZ7MiXR_u3W21Of0Fj4Rs2SOVMGoL-7XTGL1LMrvBKm0bd0ioUk125NeAD0_XrW9gOQAxbFO8HOszZ8Y5yc-gIcZ1Rfn52lmRPtt4w3AzM4cQavTMzkGw) If you want to make it yourself, you can do it using [MakeWebVideo](https://www.shoutmeloud.com/how-to-create-animated-intro-video-in-90-minutes.html). Making one starts at $80 and it makes a whiteboard-style video every time you use it. #### Spending big on your intro and outro Now, if you can spend more to make your YouTube videos better, you would need between $1,200 to $50,000. Lean Labs [explained this cost](https://www.lean-labs.com/blog/how-much-does-marketing-video-production-cost) and they say that the cost depends on various factors. It can vary due to how simple or complicated you want your intro or outro to be. Aside from that, you would also have to pay for the equipment, props, and editing needed. ### Make an in-house studio After getting your own intro and outro, my next suggestion when it comes to improving your videos is to make your own in-house studio. Creating a dedicated workspace to film your videos will make your videos consistent. Aside from that, you would save time, money, and effort to pick a place to shoot your content too. You would need at least a simple background, studio lights, and a tripod inside to film an inside one. Further upgrades would include adding furniture, props, and audio recording setup. ### Create the most memorable 10 seconds If you don’t make your video memorable within the first 10 seconds, 20 percent of your viewers won’t watch the rest of it. Making these seconds count will help you gain more viewers. More viewers mean you can get more subscribers. This, in turn, will help increase your reach. ### Decide on the length of your videos After debating how your video’s script is, let me give you tips if you decide to make a long video or a short one. #### How to make short videos According to [Comscore](https://www.comscore.com/Insights/Press-Releases/2014/2/comScore-Releases-January-2014-US-Online-Video-Rankings), if you are planning to make a short video, keep it within 4.4 minutes. Short, snappy videos like that are the reason why viewers with shorter attention spans will stay. For example, if you are thinking of reviewing a set of makeup products from Brand A, you can make a series of short videos per product. Then, you can make them into a playlist. Making a playlist based on a theme of your videos will help keep people stay on your channel. It also makes your channel organized. Doing this will also prevent anyone from leaving your channel too. #### How to make long videos After gaining traction for your short videos and their playlists, this is a good time to experiment with a video that is at least ten minutes long. Doing this is a way to reward those who have subscribed to your channel for a long time. In addition to that, YouTube will also automatically show video advertisements within said videos. This feature allows you to gain more money through ad revenue. #### Edit your videos ruthlessly After filming your video reel, the next step is to [edit your video properly](https://flux.la/how-video-editing-is-now-simpler-for-chromebook-users/). This does not only involve cutting out minor mistakes or empty space in between lines. It mostly involves making your videos to suit the direction your channel will take. My suggestion is to not remove all mistakes you have made in front of the camera. Doing this will help make your viewers relate to you as a real person. When editing your videos, also make space for your intros, outros, and transitions. It will help make the video less cluttered. This makes its content and message clear to anyone who watches it. ## Tip # 3. Create an impressive channel trailer One of the most important videos you would have to make is to create a trailer for your channel. Remember how movie studios make several short clips of their upcoming romance film or action blockbuster before it arrives at cinemas? That’s the same idea you would have to use to create this special video for your channel. Treat this as an advertisement for your channel. It needs to be a compelling video that is a minute long. Make sure to mention in that video why your channel visitors should subscribe and stay subscribed too. ## Tip # 4. Add your channel watermark to your videos ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/MOdIeR6rHNX3-ssPSFbGI7OkpktgWGsqAZj5X-aoI0rMnHCVI2PT2HFxG_0Q17We3wtnZSwWbHqKAqQShSTn2fXceoGYhJ-1Vj8ftbYLYpYS9KQrUJ4GyZSwDninKQSZ1w) In the screenshot above, notice the icon in the bottom-right corner? When you hover over it, it will show a “Subscribe” button if you haven’t followed the YouTube channel this video is. The icon itself is called a channel watermark. It is similar to your fingerprint–a unique icon that viewers can remember your channel as. Aside from that, it is one of the many ways anyone can subscribe to your channel while they are watching YouTube. Go to “Youtube Studio” while you are logged into your channel account. Then, go to “Settings” and find the “Branding” tab under “Channel.” ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lQ9MzAhfczvxH6qC-f-Wlz9NfeK97_uUS_klJxMaeI1WNYXEizXgRuJk3PuyMX54SYKR4H2axOJ07CtYQrtcEY3MwKmj6qVF86_sZ9t6LOcY1potPT-2H1bx8733592jkw) At this screen, you choose which icon you want to put as your watermark. Then, you will be asked to decide whether you want it shown at the end, at a particular time during the video, or throughout the entire video. Saving these settings will apply this setting to all your videos. ## Tip # 5. Add a link to your channel whenever you upload a video Aside from adding your watermark in, make sure to fill in the following details in your channel profile: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZxLp_MLOUgoVDeVnsxtVSxt1eLjkzM5QFZQN7fObTfubn99Q5jaNru43LWGfx1WgYgzTGT3qXADuxlSJ73p_XmNgvVChyq9NiPXZQQc-vGW8j4HjscpboRx-T0WDSHw3Hg) Doing this will help your viewers follow you on your channel’s [social media pages](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) and other relevant links that you are active. With that in mind, including your channel’s link here will help them find their way there and eventually be regular subscribers to your content. An example of this is in [Carrie Rad](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyee8AQyV6g2SGwRjghFb_g)’s [How To Stop Negative Thinking](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBXBkoWqkOo) video: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/AIocItT47RDzfa7FTbFd3do8SkBx7r8j484vdEE7tZ6VhuR33nsP7xT0VlLhuJAcusBS98SSL5u4dmYlwaySTCdubGx_XL6rc26BMkT2QPsyPe9yrJ-1Q8e_t6Km0eBG1A) ## Tip # 6. Upload as often as possible This tip is vital as YouTube always promotes channels that upload content as regularly as they can. It also ties in with the fact that most people would leave a channel if its owner did not update it with newer videos as often as they can. Maintaining this routine creates consistency. Shout Me Loud affirms this as the key for YouTube creators to form a strong relationship with their respective subscribers. Creating this chain can start as simple as uploading one or two videos per month or week. Pace yourself effectively between videos to find out when you should add one or take a break before the next one. Shout Me Loud also warns against breaking this rule. Doing this will hurt you and your channel’s reputation. Sadly it also affects how engaging your content is too. ## Tip # 7. Increase your videos click-through rates Just like how you edit your videos, there are several ways on how you can increase the number of clicks per video. I will discuss end screens, SEO, cards, and thumbnails as these are the most popular ways of doing it. ### How to make end screens As an example, an end screen of Clark Kegley’s channel looks like this (taken from [How to Market Yourself on Social Media](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5rnBgda5bo)): ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/L1hPBGIhkF3Unamci3dG_1si4oETFBHC1k7axNQkdR3FaUGKURVn_OAItqOUFFseXCrzAt9wAncjMXrqChiBT5n3jBp0HMUYKpwrlCkoHsawkRL-f8h_j3L_A8Jlq3dnCQ) It is a screen shown in the last seconds of your video. YouTubers would put a link to their channel, a “Subscribe” button, and a different video. This end card helps viewers think about whether they should subscribe to your channel. Aside from that, you can also convince them, after letting them think, to watch your next video. ### How to make cards Unlike end screens that show up at the end of the video, cards are shown if the user clicks on the “i” icon at the upper right-hand corner of the screen. An example of this is a screenshot of the image below from Lia Leigh’s video entitled [How to Brand Yourself on Social Media](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7hvIxH-eQo). ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/AR1j4cJgfGHzoImTYXukQUrpgSGuBwMvBEIcvS2naxnMIm7zAv5DJFFkjk3BSs3I6h13-9aR6o50zgNOrXEJzkImNmEIspfLtqJ0JBWGvlbGnq6fapj2BXFCb_QMHSTNmg) In her video, she used cards to display other content she has made in her channel. Doing this will help any viewer learn more about her personality through these. Adding, modifying, or deleting cards involves going through your videos through the video manager. You can add other types of cards as well, from merchandise to surveys. ### How to make unique thumbnails Making your video as eye catching to anyone stumbling through it on YouTube starts with not only the video title. This also involves the [thumbnail viewers see before they click on the video](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-thumbnail-size/). For example, if you looked up “seo tools” on YouTube, you can get these as search results: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MpPMJa0a2QYy7JREgojkEVRrNXZjP7Q_Pgt1eme8o2fjt5kWyyIvW3I3lApvgvn37DZua5iAXYFPnZyewgPMJgF7QcCOAougExX7AH1_Rzk-79ZP4yCnQb84NIwOt1H3Xw) Notice that they include a smiling human face in their thumbnails. Adding one in your thumbnail will help convince your viewers to take a look. This also enables you to establish your first connection to your future subscribers and viewers at the same time. ### Apply SEO to your videos SEO stands for “search engine optimization.” Applying this to your videos will help you not only make your video visible on Google but also on YouTube too. Applying these to your videos can be done through one or more of the following tips: 1. Use a popular keyword for your title 2. Keep your title below 50 characters 3. Add a transcript in your video 4. Write an exciting and well-written video description 5. Avoid writing your target keyword unnaturally in your video description 6. Include the right tags for your videos Relevant: [YouTube SEO – Get more views](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) ## Tip # 8. Promote your channel to its intended audience After you have done any of the previous tips, let’s talk about other ways you can promote your channel. I will discuss three ideas on how you can do it. ### Why invest in Youtube advertising? One of the common ways you can get more views on YouTube is to pay for ads for your channel. You can choose to get any of the following formats to promote your channel: 1. Display ads – an advertisement placed right before your viewer’s “Up next” list 2. Overlay ads – a transparent ad that appears near the bottom of your video 3. Skippable video ads – an advertisement shown as a video before, during, or after the main video where the user can skip after playing 5 seconds of it 4. Unskippable video ads – an advertisement shown as a video before, during, or after the main video where the user cannot skip and is at most 30 seconds long 5. Bumper ads – video ads that are at most six seconds long that are shown before the main video is played 6. Sponsored cards – a special card that redirects you to a product that has been mentioned in the video that includes a teaser ### Advertise effectively through social media I have mentioned earlier that you can include your channel’s social media pages in your default description to attract more people. Another way to use your pages is to post your videos on each site too. You can also write or post about your videos and channel through forums too. For example, if you made a video summarizing all the points in this article. Using that, you can expand on the number of sites you can be famous too. ### Incentivize people to subscribe to your channel Finally, this type of promotion can be combined with the other two strategies I have explained in this section. The goal here is to lure your viewers with a bait that will let them hook onto your channel as a subscriber. Here are some of my suggested ways of doing so: 1. Partner with a local business to have a contest where entering requires watching, liking, and subscribing to your Youtube channel 2. Offer a discount or contest to subscriber-only viewers of your content 3. Reach out to fellow YouTube content creators to have a contest together ## Tip # 9. Interact with your subscribers This final tip involves you checking on how your viewers reacted to your video. There are several ways to do this. My first suggestion involves reading your video’s comments. Aside from learning how interested or not your viewers were, you can react to their feedback too. Doing this is your first step into earning your loyal subscriber base. Next, you can hold live streams on YouTube once a month or every few months. It can be about answering questions from those who are watching. You can also deliver updates through a live stream to increase public interest too. ## Wrapping up! Becoming a rising YouTuber has become more competitive as the world becomes integrated with digital media and smartphones. I explained many tips on how to catch up with your fellow competitors from creating a script to looking for which YouTube content creator to partner up. Doing any of these tips will help you attract the audience you have been planning. Trying out a workflow for your channel using these will make you look better in your future subscriber’s eyes. Did this article help you become a better Youtuber? Read the following articles to help you strengthen your online presence: - [Learn how to increase Instagram followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/tips-to-get-more-instagram-followers/)  - [Improve web design for your eCommerce business](https://flux.la/improving-ecommerce-user-experience-through-web-design/)[T](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [How to get more followers on TikTok?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-followers-on-tiktok/)  Add a comment down below regarding how you increased your Youtube followers. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Make Money On Twitch 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-money-on-twitch/ Published: 2022-03-06 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Btw, if you are still working on your YT channel, you can check my guide on increasing your Youtube views. A lot of the ideas of that post will be useful for a Twitch channel. ## Table of contents When it comes to making money through gaming, people would definitely think about [Twitch](https://www.twitch.tv/). If you are already on cloud nine with this thought, let me tell you it’s absolutely possible and you will see in this guide how! It always impresses me how far Twitch’s adoption has gone, up to the point to where some people are calling it the next big thing in video.  > Fast forward to 2020, gaming is the next frontier for people who want to be successful in social media and Twitch is the evidence. *Btw, if you are still working on your YT channel, you can check* [*my guide on increasing your Youtube views*](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/)*. A lot of the ideas of that post will be useful for a Twitch channel.*   Like Youtube, Twitch is a video streaming platform where gamers and gaming enthusiasts share videos about their favorite games and keep an eye on all the happening events about gaming. They also stream live gaming events and competitions for free and let viewers take part in the action. If you love gaming, you must have already heard all the legends of people monetizing their passion for gaming through Twitch. *Related: Read* [*the interview I had with Justin Kan, the founder of Twitch*](https://futuresharks.com/justin-kan/)*.*  And if you are wondering how you can join this bandwagon, this guide will help you how to make money on twitch and know which games or shows get the most viewers. Let’s jump into it.  ## What is Twitch? Twitch is a social media platform that many gamers use to connect to other gamers or gaming enthusiasts. The platform allows its users to video broadcast their games – from PC games to mobile games -, share other videos, and participate in the online discussions regarding anything gaming.  The platform also provides subscribers ways of reaching out to their favorite streamers through a special service called Twitch Chat. They can also make their own live streaming channels for free.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/rdngSiSLx5db8UDoMaJ5WlGpdgHQea-oxu13jZb8kcFSMjd9CZuDGl-o4wexUzjJBFp2Af0Kr1Wn8Kgv5OW5Y4R-I4ngboQimuD5Arbm5t7ncF9-hGLFJQUwLquIkvLvxmdrMUOX) Since it started, Twitch is now the largest live-streaming site for gaming, followed by YouTube Live, Facebook Gaming, and Mixer. According to Techcrunch, [live-video statistics tool provider StreamElements](https://techcrunch.com/2019/07/12/twitch-continues-to-dominate-live-streaming-with-its-second-biggest-quarter-to-date/) reported that Twitch has recorded a live-stream view total of 2.72+ billion hours in the second quarter of 2019 alone.  Youtube Live only recorded 735.54 million hours worth of views, while Facebook Gaming recorded 197.76 million hours and 112.29 million hours for Mixer.  ## How did it become so famous? When it was established in June 2011, Twitch was like other live streaming sites that appeared on the net that offers its users a way to live-stream their favorite games and share about their lives for free. [According to its founder Justin Kan during the TechCrunch Disrupt event in 2014](https://www.businessinsider.com/the-story-of-video-game-streaming-site-twitch-2014-10), he got the idea to start the site after the popularity of reality show “Big Brother” came to be and the lowering prices for webcams and broadband connectivity.  He wanted to start the idea of “lifecasting” through Twitch’s early predecessor, justin.tv. In lifecasting, users will share their lives while recording it through a webcam.  The idea was a hit, but there were a few problems because of the “Swatting” attacks on users that led to police searches. Kan experienced it himself and believed that it was not easy to stream video games back in the day because of the setup needed to stream it online.  Since it was becoming popular, Kan hired a specialist video game streamer who gave tips on how other video gamers can stream their games. When this happened, the site – now renamed Twitch – grew and became a must-go-to-site for gamers.  Twitch would then be sold to [Amazon in August 2014 for $970 million](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/), which allowed it to prosper as the best online-game-streaming site in the world. It is also the host for many international e-sports competitions, which raked in a lot of people to the site.  [Did you know how Robinhood makes money? Check here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/) ## How can you make money from Twitch? Let’s get to the point i.e how can you earn money through Twitch?  There are umpteen ways in which you can make money from this channel, but what you find here is only what really works and brings you great views!  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/SPLLhLYr1aRKHQeRwtMYoeMilaEX_q48oSsEnJT2Qw7afyEjpmd0bQTK8DEumWRPqFwM7xN0o-XB8NJ83rRUxBtRpXt3bVpskuVg5sJf--aTyyDdaYGakXYVRI8WMdK9Ev5Mkyeq) ### Know your gaming genre Know what gaming genre you wish to be involved in and find out what money-making avenues will work best for it. You must also be consistent with your content once you pick the genre you want to focus on.  1. Live video gaming – If you want to earn through Twitch, live video gaming is one way you can monetize your channel. Stream a session of you playing a video game masterfully and it will definitely catch the attention of people to your site.  2. Speedrunning – In speedrunning, you will play a game level or an entire game as fast as you can. It can be any game you want, so pick the ones you know best before you attempt it. 3. Talk show/podcast – Aside from live streaming, there are a lot of people who do talk shows and podcasts on Twitch to earn money. Talk about your favorite games, game news and other topics you think are relevant.  4. Music  – Twitch also has a space in its channels for musicians. If you can make new music based on games or just decent music people would love to listen to, share it and promote it on Twitch.  5. Play rare or unique games – If you are the type of gamer who plays card games like Magic: The gathering or board games, share your enthusiasm online. You will definitely find viewers in Twitch who will support you.  6. Daily Vlogs – If you want some time to relax from video game live streaming, you may want to try out Twitch’s daily vlog-style lives to earn some money. Here, you just share your daily life or talk about other things aside from gaming.  7. Eating (yes you read it right!)- Some Twitch users actually do eat live-streams and discuss what they think about their meals. There is a special section for eating live-streams in Twitch.  8. Experiment on other stuff – Twitch is not just gaming heaven, it is also streamer heaven. You can monetize your channel by promoting unique content such as experiments, performing art and other things you are good at.  9. Sell merchandise – If you have a good following and a trademark, you may want to check out selling merch in your Twitch account. Make sure that these products are of high quality and reflect your brand as a Twitch streamer.  Ever wondered how Snapchat makes money? [Check it here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) ### When you make the big leagues, here are other ways on how you can continue earning money: 1. Twitch Subscriptions – Some users can make their Twitch channels private and open it to users for a fee of $4.99 per month. If you go use this route, you will earn half of the subscription fee while Twitch takes the other half.  2. Twitch Affiliate Program – The program allows any channel with 50 followers, has 3 or more viewers in their live broadcasts for a month, 500 minutes of the broadcast time for a month and 7 broadcast dates to join. When you get invited by Twitch, you can earn “Bits” which you can exchange for game items or discounts.  3. Ad revenues – [Like Pinterest that makes money through its advertising network](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-pinterest-make-money/), When you set up ads in your Twitch account, you will get part of the revenues these ads will generate. The amount you earn varies, but it is a good way to have a steady stream of income while using Twitch.  4. Donations – Users do have an option to earn money through donations via Twitch. Of course, you need to make sure your reason for raising a donation drive is for a good reason.  5. Paid livestreams – Nowadays, gaming companies look at Twitch as a great avenue to check their products. Look for job openings from companies that are hiring gamers to stream their games for a fee.  6. Sponsorships – If you are one of the big names in the industry, you will definitely get the attention of sponsors. But if you do catch the attention of a sponsor, you must ensure you keep your reputation spotless.  ## Tips to get more Twitch viewers Of course, if you plan to monetize your Twitch account, you need to make sure you get the right viewers on your site. The more unique your channel’s content is, the better the chances you can get people to go to your site.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/m0EYc_r-VaeoXhX93lwrOLaiNTQpx_fq7G9PHHMK5Sbv8gU6lyLs8lklXGOdCmt__GN8ZffqCotPMeLKYxTF8vZZBBO1eWB9fIZ0w5Ci_7GnC7oavbyKetkg_v96r02vgvxBHav2) 1. Promote your account on social media – If you want people to know you are on Twitch, you should let them know about it. Share your page in your social media accounts.  2. Attend events or meetups – Twitch has several events where streamers can meet up and enjoy the games or topics they love talking about. TwitchCon and PAX are just some of the events where you can meet up with fellow Twitch users and introduce your brand.  3. Participate in other people’s streams – Get people to check your page by participating in other streams. You can talk about that person’s content and share your opinion about them.  4. Design your Twitch account – Like other websites, Twitch channels must have a good layout that will promote the site better to people. Design one or get someone to help you with it, and use plug-ins you think your viewers would love to check as well.  5. Know the games you will stream – Not all video games have a huge following, especially if they are old. Know which games are often viewed by Twitch streamers.  6. Stream constantly – Always schedule the time when you will stream and ensure that it is a long stream time. Longer stream time often indicates that it’s quite an awesome game you which in turn makes people curious about your content.   7. Multi-stream – If you want your Youtube or Mixer followers to know you are streaming in Twitch, use sites like Restream to help you simulcast your stream in all these social media pages. Not all Youtube or Mixer viewers have Twitch accounts so you can get more viewers from these sites if they see your stream.  ## Reminders I am sure now you have a fair idea of how to monetize your Twitch channel and increase your viewers, but it is important to remember that not everyone who monetizes their site will earn the same amount of money other streamers are earning.  So, before you start monetizing your Twitch account, do the following: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/22P4aRdaNPK9OJAkMGhGx1yMH0NuUvG1yiZgcdgZU_afeiZCoF0F6uEm4UfScrAGNk8Y9IP9NjkzRf8Y9duGALjuYex2c2nR62W9g0gEwS5krk769ayhbplOpZTOjFMXi-jD_oLd) 1. If you have a day job and have just started your Twitch channel to monetize it, don’t quit immediately. Create a schedule that will help you release a stream and at the same time, work without interruptions.  2. Research what is hit and what is not in Twitch. Know everything you need to know about Twitch and find out what pitfalls you have to avoid when promoting your Twitch channel.  3. Once you start earning through your Twitch channel, always include your earnings in your taxes. Nowadays, online earnings are considered income sources that you have to declare.  4. Do not let streaming get in the way of family life. Always allow a certain amount of time for streams and keep the rest for your family.  5. Always rest when you can. You do not need to stream for 24 hours just to get people into your Twitch channel.  6. If your chosen genre doesn’t work for you, try another genre that you think you are good at. Earning money on Twitch or on any other social media site does need trial and error before you become proficient with it.  Always have a plan B in case you cannot maximize your Twitch channel for monetizing!  [You would also like to check these facts about how Google makes money. It will blow your mind for sure!](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/)  ## Your takeaway from this guide! With gaming now becoming a popular industry for many millennials, it is no wonder many gamers are looking for ways to monetize their sites. If you are considering monetizing your Twitch channel, you need to ensure your content is up-to-scratch and definitely make an impression on your target audience.  Don’t forget to make sure to leave a comment below or [message me on FB](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) if you would like me to cover a specific topic in my next post.  You can also add me on my social media accounts (don’t forget to tell me how you came across my site!) If you loved this article, here are other great articles to inspire you to boost your social media sites: - [A guide on getting more instagram followers](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/)  - [How to make money on Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/)  - [My top articles on Digital Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Use Google Analytics: A 2026 Beginner’s Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/ Published: 2022-03-06 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Back when I was starting, Google Analytics confused the hell out of me. The terms were complicated and so were the reports. ## Table of contents Yes, I was in your position too. Back when I was starting, Google Analytics confused the hell out of me.  The terms were complicated and so were the reports. Analytics is powerful and functional, maybe too powerful and functional, that sometimes I don’t know where to go or what to click.   And I am sure I am not alone in that regard. Google Analytics has a reputation for having a steep learning curve and is undoubtedly unforgiving for the beginner.  You will find yourself asking, “Where do I begin?” “What’s going on here?” “What’s this?” during your first few sessions. But don’t be frustrated; it is complicated because it covers many things in-depth. How did I manage to work around it, then? Well, the experience gathered from trial and error helped me.  Compared to when I was beginning, it is certainly much easier now. I got the hang of the most important things, though there are still [new things to discover and learn](https://alejandrorioja.com/ezoic-review/).  Fortunately, the presence of different media makes setting up your analytics easier. Guides are available online; video tutorials are accessible; even Google itself has resources you can use.  I am so much more comfortable with Google Analytics now, and I want you to be too. Google Analytics is currently the most popular and powerful data analytics tool, so you are missing out on a ton of useful information if you don’t know how to use it.  Gathered through my experience with Google Analytics over the years, here is my definitive and in-depth guide. ## What is Google Analytics?  Let’s start it off by outlining just what Google Analytics is.  Google Analytics is a data gathering and examination tool that allows the webmaster an extremely detailed and in-depth look at the performance of his website/app. With Google Analytics, a site owner or app developer can see where all the traffic for his site is coming from and what the visitors spend their time on while on the site.  Google Analytics has the added benefit of being able to integrate the many marketing products of Google (Search Console, Ads, Tag Manager, Data Studio, etc.) into its calculations. If you also use these Google products, then Analytics is for you.  The platform gathers an enormous amount of raw data and processes them into manageable reports. These reports contain the summarized and understandable information used to gain valuable insight and make informed decisions.  Without these data, you will not know if your marketing strategy produces the desired results. Being able to track, interpret, and summarize meaningful data into digestible information makes Google Analytics an essential weapon in any digital marketer’s arsenal. Relevant: You would also like to read about generating leads with OptinMonster [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/optinmonster-review/) ## Is Google Analytics free?  Google Analytics has a free and paid version, called Analytics 360. If you are a relatively small business, then you will get all the functionality you need with the free version.  Large enterprises who want more advanced features such as attribution modelling, roll-up reporting, unlimited and unsampled data, and metrics per property will want to use the 360 version. Paying for the premium version also gives you access to your own account manager, and a dedicated support system.  About pricing though, it’s definitely not cheap. At $150,000 per year, the 360’s cost is a deal-breaker for many companies.  The standard version is plenty sufficient for a lot of users. But if you are a large business with the budget to pay for the subscription and a team that handles technical analytics, then you might consider investing.  The Google Analytics platform gives a full view of how the site is performing as a whole. How does the tool achieve this?  ### Collecting data The program gathers lots of data about your site, mainly about:  1. The number of visitors per page  2. What page the visitors came from  3. What those visitors do on your site  4. How the users interact with the many different elements on the page  5. At what stage the visitors leave from your site  6. How long the visitors spend on the page 7. And many more.  Analytics catches all of these data through a JavaScript code that the tool gives to you upon setting up the program for your site. The code adds another code, called a cookie, to the browser of each site visitor.   These cookies send hits to your Google Analytics account that reports each interaction of the user to your site.  #### The hits  The cookies send hits to your Analytics tool, and these hits are analyzed to generate reports. Google Analytics works with three types of hits.  A pageview hit is sent every time a user visits any of your pages. It includes information such as the browser and device they are using and the pages they are visiting.  An event hit happens when a visitor does something. Examples of these events are clicking a link, playing a video, downloading a file, or filling up a form. A transaction or e-commerce hit is when a site visitor purchases something from your site. Straightforward transaction-related insights, such as price and quantity bought, are included in the hit.  ### Data processing  The tool does not present the data in its raw, unprocessed form. Google Analytics, through powerful calculations, first transforms the data into meaningful and digestible reports. Data is separated into users and sessions.  User data relate to the visitors of your site. Google Analytics gives each visitor a unique ID tag; Analytics recognizes them if they return to the website and tag them as a ‘returning’ visitor.  The ‘returning’ tag only works if they use the same device, and can be circumvented if the user deletes the cookies from their browser.  Session data relates to the visiting of the user to the site itself. A session is essentially the time a visitor spends on your website.  It begins from the time of the pageview hit and lasts until they leave the site. Session data analytics include actions taken, time spent, and pages visited, among many others.  ### Generating reports Google Analytics processes these reports into visual form for understandability and makes it easier to identify patterns and convey complicated ideas. All of the reports on Google Analytics display a mix of both metrics and dimensions. Dimensions, in a way, refers to the categorical and fundamental attributes of collected data sets. For example, a “country” dimension shows the countries where the site users come from.  The metrics are the quantitative attributes that tell you the amount of something. Pageviews and clicks, as well as the length of stay on a page, are some of the metrics available.  However, not all of both can be combined into reports. Each has a specific level at which the data is collated, referred to as ‘scope.’  ‘User level,’ ‘session-level,’ and ‘hit level’ are the different scope levels. Only metrics and dimensions lying in the same scope can be combined.  In any Analytics report, the Dimensions are the horizontal rows and the metrics are the vertical columns.  Google Analytics has default reports, as well as custom ones where you can dictate what and what not to see.   ## Why do you need Google Analytics?  You are seriously missing out on a ton of useful metrics if you are not using an analytics tool. Such a tool allows you to see what works on your site and what doesn’t.  What makes Google analytics valuable?  1. **Tracking conversions.** An owner of an e-commerce store will not only care about the traffic the site derives but also whether the website visitors purchase from the online store or not. With Google Analytics, you can set up goals that the program can track. These goals are usually actions that the visitors complete on the site.  2. **Improve Customer Engagement**. Google Analytics has numerous functions helping you understand the behavior of your site visitors and users. Understanding this allows you to improve your site’s content, refine the user experience, and create something of value to your users.  3. **Monitor Mobile Device Performance**. Google adopts [mobile-first indexing](https://searchengineland.com/googles-mobile-first-indexing-now-powers-over-half-of-googles-search-results-309650), meaning that for your [site to rank in the Google SERPs](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/), then your website must be mobile-friendly. Google Analytics can monitor from what device your site is being accessed from, and can give you an insight on how your site is faring on mobile.  4. **Marketing Help**. Google Analytics will help you adjust and customize your marketing campaigns, showing channels to invest in and stay away from.  5. **Site Performance Analysis**. The tool also gathers useful data on your site performance so that you can build a plan to improve it. Google Analytics can monitor metrics such as traffic, load times both on desktop and mobile, and the average time a user stays on your site.  6. **SEO Optimization**. Google Analytics also has features that highlight the performance of your site in [terms of SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/). ## Glossary of terms Before delving into how to set up your Google Analytics account, here is a quick reference for the terms you will commonly encounter throughout the use of the tool. Understanding what common words mean will make your work easier. 1. **Audiences.** Audiences are customized groups of web users you create. These will aid in identifying the types of users in Analytics reports, [Google Ads campaigns](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/), and other Google marketing tools. 2. **Bounce Rate.** When a user visits your site or app and leaves without doing anything or never interacting with any of its elements, the visitor is said to have “bounced.” The bounce rate is a percentage of sessions resulting in the event described, during a chosen range of dates.   3. **Campaigns.** Campaigns are the different specific ways the users find about your app or website. Google Analytics has the power to track campaigns, such as Google Ads campaigns or any custom campaign. 4. **Conversions.** The number of times a user completes a defined goal. 5. **Direct Traffic.** When a user starts a session on your site without coming from or directed by a different traffic source (such as another site). For example, a user typing the URL into the browser instead of clicking at a link from a Google SERP is a kind of direct traffic.  6. **Funnels**. A funnel is simply the path a user takes to complete goals. For example, a user with the intent of purchase will go through a sales or transaction funnel.  7. **Goals**. Goals are the specific objectives that you can define as necessary for your business. They can be thought of as the desired result of a site visit from a user. Accomplished goals are usually significant determiners of how your website or app is performing. For example, the goal of an e-commerce site is to drive purchases and conversions. If your site is accomplishing decent conversion numbers, then your site seems to be successful.  8. **Pages/Session.** This refers to the average number of pages a user visited on the app or site per session. It includes the times when a single page is viewed repeatedly.  9. **Pageviews.** The total number of views your site or app pages accumulate over a selected time range is referred to as the total pageviews.  10. **Reports.** This is one of Google Analytics’ main functionality. The tool, aside from giving you the choice of 50 free reports, allows you to create custom ones you can tailor depending on your intended use.  11. **Sessions.** The period where users are interacting with the elements on your site or app on a chosen date range.  12. **Users.** The ‘Users’ and ‘Active Users’ metric reflects the number of website or app visitors who engaged in at least one session on the site or app for a selected date interval.  Now, there is no real need to memorize the terms mentioned here. If you encounter a dead-end with your use of Analytics, hovering over the words will show a pop-up box with the description. The question mark at the top right of the Google Analytics window gives you access to the tool’s very own help center, where you can search for information.  ## Set up your Google Analytics campaign  To make use of Analytics, you have to set the tool up first. And to set it up correctly, you have to understand the various tiers first to organize your account.  ### Google Analytics hierarchy Google Analytics has a hierarchy system that helps in the organization. It also dictates just how many elements of each tier you can have on one account.  ![](/images/posts/inline/2b8d175b-image12-6.png) Organization is the highest tier and is typically reserved for large companies. One organization account can have many Google Analytics accounts under it.  Accounts are mandatory; you cannot use Google Analytics without one. A Google Account is enough to use Google Analytics.  Under a single Google account, you can have 100 Analytics accounts at most.  Properties are simply the websites or apps examined by Google Analytics. Up to 50 properties can be assigned to one Google Analytics account.  A question often asked is if it is better to create a new account for each property or adding properties to one account. I say that it depends on individual circumstances.  If you have one website with many subdirectory sites, then you will want to create different properties for each site to better monitor their performance.   But if you have, say, a site as your main one, and another one you are maintaining not related to that. In these circumstances, you may want separate properties in separate accounts.  Views are divided into two: one not configured whatsoever and one with exclusion filters set up to exclude any traffic you do not want to be examined, such as views from your own company.  Views are the information captured after the application of configurations and filter settings. You are allowed up to 25 views under a single property.  Note, however, that there is no definite way to organize your Google Analytics account. It’s all a matter of preference.  If you want to combine many different properties in one account because you don’t want to be bothered logging into different accounts, then you can do that.  Things to note, though, are that deleted views cannot be retrieved, and properties cannot be migrated from one account to another.  ### Set up your Google Analytics property To make it simple, we’ll assume that you have only one account and one website or app needing an analytics tool. Setting up your own Google Analytics campaign involves five general steps.  1. If you don’t have an account already, create your own. 2. Add the industry, URL, and name of the site you want to track.  3. Receive the custom JavaScript code that will enable Analytics to monitor the hits from your site. 4. Add the code just after the tag of your site.  5. Verify that the set-up is working by opening the Analytics portal while opening and clicking around your site through a different tab or device. The report is updated in real-time to show one visitor (you).  Let’s take a look at the process of setting up a property.  Log-in with an account, or create one if you don’t have any.  To get started with Analytics, you need an account. If you are using Google ads, docs, Gmail, drive, YouTube, or any other Google product, then you’re good to go.  Once you have an account, go to [Google Analytics](https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/), then click the “Sign In To Analytics” button. You are then greeted by this window.  The window shows the steps needed to get Google Analytics up and running for your site.  After clicking the “Sign Up” button on the right, you will be redirected to a page that looks like this.  ![](/images/posts/inline/81793c3b-screenshot-analytics.google.com-2020.06.27-15_11_18.png) Follow the instructions on the screen to proceed. Once you have an account name and made the choices you want, you will then be given three options on what to measure: app, site, or both.  ![](/images/posts/inline/5e2ba685-screenshot-analytics.google.com-2020.06.27-15_13_25.png) After choosing, the final process with the account set up is to give the exact details of the site you intend to track. If you want to add another property, then you can add those later if you would like, but for now, enter the URL of the main site you want to analyze.  Once everything is in order, click the “Create” button to finalize your Analytics account. The tool will also give you a code that allows it to collect the data that it processes into reports.  ![](/images/posts/inline/a0a8b3d3-screenshot-analytics.google.com-2020.06.27-15_14_57.png) Once all that is done, you need to add that code to your site.  ### Add the tracking code The window looks like this, and the tracking code is inside the rectangle. ![](/images/posts/inline/574134ef-screenshot-analytics.google.com-2020.06.27-15_17_37.png) This is a unique identifier for the registered website or app. You will need to paste it to the code of every web page you want to track.  There are several ways to add the code to your site.  1. You can do it manually by copying the gtag.js code given by Google Analytics and pasting it on the tag of the header file. Do this for each of the pages you would like to track.  You can do this through a text editor program (such as Notepad) and then upload the HTML file to your web hosting program through software such as FileZilla.  2. The Google Tag Manager is there to help with adding the code to all of your pages at once.  Access Google Tag Manager, select Create Tag, and Google Analytics. Select Universal Analytics, then give a name to your tag. Name it something simple and easy to remember. Choose the appropriate track type, typically page view. Select the firing trigger you want, “All Pages” in this case. This option will apply the tracker to all pages of your site.  3. If you are using a CMS such as WordPress, there is an option to install the Google Analytics code via a plugin. The WordPress app store has a selection of plugins for Google Analytics, just choose one, and follow the instructions.  4. App maker software, e-commerce sites such as Shopify, and popular website building platforms such as Wix, have their specific directions on the installation of the tracking code.  These are typically found in the administrative dashboard or in the help section of the platform you are hosting your site with.  The installation of Google Analytics depends on the platform, plugins, and theme you use. You will be able to find detailed instructions on the proper installation of the tracking code with a quick Google search on how to install Google Analytics on the platform you use.  Verify that the tracking code is working by opening Google Analytics and opening the page on a different tab or device. You must be able to see at least one pageview.  Once the account properties are set up, the tracking code is added, and it is verified to be working, then you are good to go. Google Analytics is now tracking data.  While the data builds up, you can set up other features. One of the most important of them, in my opinion, is the Goals function.  ### Set up goals As said earlier, different websites have different goals. And this metric can be one identifier of the success of a website.   Google Analytics has a way to see the details surrounding how well a site facilitates achieving goals.  To set up goals, go to the Analytics Admin panel, then select the Goals option. A new page will open with a ‘+Goals’ option, choose that and decide whether to use an already existing Goals template or create a custom one.  Most Analytics users will find the default goal templates enough to fulfill their needs because all common goals and settings are already there. You can also create your custom settings, and it is pretty easy to do.  There are four goals that Google Analytics can measure. The tool counts the event as a conversion if it satisfies the condition of the goal.  1. Destination – A conversion is recorded upon the visit of a user to a specified URL. 2. Duration – If a user stays on the site for a set length of time, then Analytics records a conversion.  3. Event – If a visitor finishes a particular action, such as filling out a form or downloading a file, then that is recorded as a goal conversion.  4. Pages/Screens per session – A goal completion is reached when a user clicks and views a pre-specified number of pages in one session.  These are the goals that Analytics measure, and are the options to choose from for a custom goal.  Once you are done setting up your goal parameters, follow the on-screen steps. Google Analytics will ask for specific details and fields for the exact nature of the goals.  For example, Analytics may ask for a specific URL for a destination goal. Duration or pages/session are also easy to set up.  Event goals, however, are quite different and require the setting up of events under Analytics. This warrants a separate article altogether, and Google has a pretty comprehensive [piece](https://support.google.com/analytics/answer/1033068?hl=en) about this.  When you are done with this, click the “Create Goal” button to complete the process. Analytics then immediately starts with goal tracking.  ### Add additional properties and accounts  You may want to add new properties and accounts before delving into reports. Same as the goals, to do this, then head to the admin menu.  ![](/images/posts/inline/8b2b9615-screenshot-analytics.google.com-2020.06.27-15_20_56.png) There are ‘Create Account’ and ‘Create Property’ buttons in this window. Choose the relevant one for you, after which you will be taken through the sequential process of setting up these new accounts or properties.  ## Google Analytics reports After everything has been set up, you can just wait and do what you usually do. Your first report with enough significant data can be seen after 24 hours, which is enough for the tool to have collected data.  These reports are accessed through the Analytics dashboard, and links to the different types of Analytics reports are on the left side of the dashboard window. The right side has detailed graphical breakdowns and occupies most of the remaining space. ### Overview dashboard ![](/images/posts/inline/09d81435-product-dashboard-0.jpg) The overview dashboard is the main window of Analytics and is where you will find the links you need to navigate the tool. Your every visit and use of Analytics will start here.   The left side contains the links to specific Analytics reports, and the right side is the graphs, tables, and other representations of data. It also occupies most of the window, and understandably so.  The graphical information is displayed on cards, and there are options on those cards to tweak what they show. You can change the date range or the type of data shown.   The left-side menu contains the different report options available, and clicking on them will give you more options for in-depth measurements. Let’s take a look at the reports. ### Real-time reports Real-time reports are the first option on the left menu. It is similar to the main dashboard, but instead shows data of the users currently on your site.  ![](/images/posts/inline/82cf3ac3-thread-24615079-17494302401284093754.png) Because of this, the real-time reports regularly update as Analytics receives new hits.   You, as the webmaster, will be able to see the pages they are currently in, the sites they came from, their location, the device they are using, and more.   Clicking the different options on the left side provides more insight. For example, clicking the ‘location’ options shows where the visitors are based.  While the real-time reports are undoubtedly helpful, you will find yourself using this report the least. It has some case uses, however.  As an online store with a one-day sale campaign, you will want to monitor how the sale affects the single-day traffic and conversion. If you posted a new blog post, you might want to take a look at the traffic for that blog post.  ### Audience reports The audience report helps you know more about your visitors, both on the site currently, and about the past and returning visitors. You can get data on the number of users, session length, and more.  ![](/images/posts/inline/ff2a96c6-screenshot-analytics.google.com-2016-03-29-12-31-49.png) One great thing about audience reports is the depth of information they provide. These include the following.  1. Demographics 2. Interests  3. Language and Location 4. New vs. Returning  5. Recency vs. Frequency  6. Engagement  7. Device type  8. Browsers, operating systems, and network connections the visitors use All the information in this section is crucial to making a successful marketing campaign.  ### Acquisition reports Acquisition reports are focused on how visitors end up at your site.   The report dissects your traffic by where it came from and how the visitors found your site. It takes a look at the traffic generated through ad placings, social media, and organic searches.  1. If [Google ads is your ad campaign manager](https://alejandrorioja.com/adsense-revenue/), then you can integrate its results into Google Analytics. You can see information regarding how your keywords and search queries affect your site traffic.  2. The search console option is critical when you want to know how your site fares when it comes to organic searches. Information such as how often your site URL comes up in SERPs or user queries are readily available.  Data about site engagement, such as conversion and bounce rates, and other post-clicking data, are also accessible. This can help you optimize the site for it to come up more in organic searches or to increase user engagement.  - The acquisition reports’ social function measures how social media consumes your content. You can see how users interact with your social media content, as well as how it impacts the behaviors of the site users.   - The campaigns report is geared toward paid Google ads campaigns. You can see data related to paid and organic keywords, as well as cost analysis.  ### Behavior reports Some of the reports already mentioned provide surface-level data. Behavior reports are where you will go if you want to delve into more comprehensive information sets.  ![](/images/posts/inline/fbc62fd0-behavior-site-content-all-pages2_0.jpg) Actions such as how the visitors use the search function and view content are available here. Technical information, such as the bounce rate, session duration, page views, and load times are also under behavior reports.  There are seven specialized reports under the main Behavior report, accessible through the left side panel. #### Behavior flow  This report shows the path visitors traveled to get from one page to the next. This is useful for knowing what pages keep the users engaged the most and identifying pages with potential content issues.  #### Site speed The site speed report, as is with the name, tells you how fast the site loads, which can be sorted by page, browser, and location. The report also contains some ways or suggestions to improve the load times.  #### Site content  In site content, you will find the list of pages visitors have viewed for a specified period. This allows you to examine how the pages are performing, the number of pageviews, the bounce rate, and the average time a user stays on a page.  #### Site search The site search option reflects how the visitors use the search function of your site, helping you know the pages they are looking for and the keywords they use. With this knowledge, you can optimize your existing content or create new ones.  #### Events  Analytics defines an event as a unique user interaction aside from the usual screen loading, and which can be tracked independently. Examples of these are filling out forms, watching a video clip, or downloading a file.  As said earlier, you can set up a tracking method for a particular page to see the interactions with that specific piece of content.  #### Publisher If your ads are monetized with AdSense or AdExchange, this particular report gives out metrics on the clicks, impressions, and revenue your site generates.  #### Experiments  The experiments reports are for those who are interested in the more technical aspects of the page. The reports here focus on things such as A/B testing, cookie targeting, multivariate testing, and geotargeting.  These experiments are available through [Google Optimize](https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/optimize/) and can be integrated with the Analytics platform.  ### Conversion reports The conversion reports section is about the goals and conversions driven by your site. This dashboard is linked to the goals you have described earlier.  ![](/images/posts/inline/e739edce-google-analytics-conversions-ecommerce-overview-report.png) The ‘Goals’ option represents the total number of accomplished goals. Head to the overview section to know how you are performing in terms of the number of completed goals. The goal URL shows the [URL of the page](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/) where the conversion exactly happened. The reverse goal path allows you to trace the pages the user headed to before completing a goal.   Funnel Visualization and Goal Flow generally give out information about the path the user took to complete the goal. While Funnel Visualization is more concerned with sequential completions, goal flow has less restraint and even shows when a user goes back to a specific page.  The ecommerce reports are for the online stores and are used to know purchase activity on the app or site. Basic transaction-related information such as price and quantity, as well as advanced details like conversion rate and average order values, are available.  There are multiple ways to sort the data in e-commerce reports, and it is up to you to find your preference.  When maintaining a site, you are not exactly communicating with your users in one way only. When there are many sources of traffic, then it can be hard to track just which works well the most. The multi-channel funnels report under conversions provides a way around this. It shows how the many marketing channels you employ (organic searches, paid ads, referrals, etc.) work to drive conversions.  ## Google Analytics FAQs  **Q: I am not that good with reading data. Can someone or something just summarize it for me?**  A: There is a site named [Quill Engage](https://www.quillengage.com/) that gathers Google Analytics data and transforms it into an understandable English report. The result is an easily digestible and understandable narrative report you can use.  **Q: I want custom Analytics reports. Can I make one?**  A: This is reserved for the more advanced because the default report options are enough for the typical user most of the time. But if you want to, Analytics has that option.  Simply head over to the ‘Reports’ option over at the left panel, then click customization, custom reports, and +new custom report. Enter the details needed, and you are good to go.  There are four report visualizations that you can choose from. 1. **Explorer** is the standard analytics report with line graphs and tables and dynamic elements such as a sort option.  2. The **flat table** report is mostly static and arranges data in rows.  3. **Map Overlays** show a map of the world and color gradients to represent traffic and engagement by geographical area. 4. **Funnel** is the same as conversion funnels that you define.  Click save when you are done with your configurations. To access them, click on the same reports button, then customization to see the listing of all your custom reports.  **Q: What is a Segment?**  A: In Google Analytics, segments are the site visitors who share the same characteristics. The tool identifies specific types of traffic that allows you to interpret data better.  For example, users from a location have high bounce rates from your site. This knowledge then may prompt you to create targeted campaigns to improve conversion rates. You have a choice of custom segments or those built into the platform.  **Q: How can I deal with my keywords showing up as (not provided)?**  Keywords shown as (not provided) is Google’s way of giving search privacy. Thankfully, there are some workarounds.  Linking Google search console to your Analytics account, now provided reports from Authority Lab, and Hittail helps you uncover some of those covered terms.  They are of no use to other reports and data but are useful to know the keywords driving your traffic.  ## Wrapping up  If I have to recommend one must-learn Google marketing tool, then it has to be Google Analytics. Data is king in the digital marketing landscape, and Analytics is the primary source of such valuable data.  Simply knowing what’s working and what’s not based on the set of data will go a long way in ensuring [business growth](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2020/01/02/nine-things-to-know-about-google-analytics/#691b0cc56cb9). The power of objective data is accessible through a mouse click.  And the best part of it all? Google Analytics is free!  The interface is easy enough to learn. What is hard is navigating those multiple reports options to find what you want, and analyzing the data to find what you need.  Use the insights you have grabbed in this article to start with Analytics. Further trial and error will sharpen your experience, and you will get better with the tool in time.  Have you used Google Analytics before? Tell me your insights by dropping them in the comments section.  Here are more guides for you.  - [Google knowledge panel for your brand](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-knowledge-panel/)  - [SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)  - [Here’s how you can optimise your website speed](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Invite All Your Facebook Friends to Like a Page or Event on Facebook 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/ Published: 2022-03-05 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Scripts, SEO ## Table of contents Ever wondered how you can invite all your friends to like a page on Facebook? What if you’re organizing a massive Project X and want to invite everyone you know to your Facebook event? Today I’ll show you how to invite all your Facebook friends to a page, event, fundraiser, and more. I just updated this post to reflect the new FB layout, enjoy! (This worked as of Oct 31, 2020) Btw, I also have [codes for Twitter](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) and [Pinterest](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-mass-follow-on-pinterest-scripts/). While you are at it, why don’t you [add me on FB](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro)? (tell me you found me through this post!) ## How to invite all friends to like a page on Facebook Good news! You no longer need a script to invite all your friends to like your page on Facebook! Facebook recently just rolled out a handy new feature that allows you to invite everyone to like your page. Here’s how to invite all your friends to like your page: - Go to your Facebook Fan Page - On the right hand side, find the 3 horizontal dots and hit invite friends ![](/images/posts/inline/5d64187d-image-3.png) - A pop up will appear, click on ****“Select All”**** on the right ![](/images/posts/inline/9f2e6987-image-5.png) - Lastly, click ****“Send invites” ****Note that you can also send invites via Messenger (capped at 50 people at the time) While you are at it, would you please like [my Future Sharks page?](https://www.facebook.com/futuresharksmedia) Here are other useful FB invite hacks. ## Invite people that liked your post to like your page on Facebook This trick is quite useful is you ever run a post that [ends up going viral](https://futuresharks.com/go-viral-facebook-goubtube/). With this script you can invite everyone that liked that post, to like your page. *Note: For this to work, you must use **Google Chrome** (some people reported it also works on Firefox).* Steps: 1. Go to the post you want to get likes from 2. Click on the like count ![invite post to like](/images/posts/inline/b80a86a6-invite-post-to-like.png) 3. A window will pop up. Scroll to the bottom of that list. 4. Type “**javascript:**” into the address bar. (Notice the colon after javascript, no quotes).    5. Paste the code below after “javascript:”  var inputs = document.querySelectorAll('.a8c37x1j.ni8dbmo4.stjgntxs.l9j0dhe7.ltmttdrg.g0qnabr5'); for(var i=1; i “Invite friends” ![invite to event](/images/posts/inline/9dac7c70-invite-to-event.png) 3. **Scroll down** to the very bottom of that list that just popped up. 4. Type “**javascript:**” into the address bar. (Notice the colon after javascript, no quotes).    5. Paste the invite all to event code below right after “javascript:” 6. Wait a few seconds and then hit **Send Invites**. Voilà! All your Facebook friends are invited to your event. var inputs = document.getElementsByClassName('\_1pu2'); for(var i=0; i~3.07B Facebook MAU (Meta Q4 2025 earnings), but the share of *time-on-platform* relative to Reels and WhatsApp has continued sliding. If this post is part of an outreach strategy, weight WhatsApp and Threads (yes — Threads survived the 2024 pivot speculation and crossed 200M MAU) accordingly. --- ## WordPress.com Vs. WordPress.org: An Ultimate Comparison Guide 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-com-vs-wordpress-org/ Published: 2022-03-05 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Reviews, SEO TL;DR: Before we jump into detail, check out this video that explains how WordPress works: Let’s open up by explaining what these two are to get everyone on the same page. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. As a new user, figuring out nuances in the variations WordPress comes in maybe one of the many things you may be facing. Well worry no more, today we’re going to demystify these differences to help you choose the best option for you.  While both options provide the developers’ favorite content management systems, certain striking differences exist between these two. Learning about these makes all the difference in which site you settle for in your website development. Our goal here is to clarify the differences and highlight how each caters to different website builder’s needs.  Before we jump into detail, check out this video that explains how WordPress works: ## **What are WordPress.com and WordPress.org?** Let’s open up by explaining what these two are to get everyone on the same page. WordPress is one of the leading website development software, programmed to assist you in building blogs and e-sStores all alike. It’s a free, i.e. open source application that can be directed downloaded or set up with a hosting package separately. Both options operate under the same software, but where WordPress.com is hosted on your behalf WordPress.org requires you to install it yourself and choose a hosting site. Most developers consider the latter as more superior since it lets you create without any restraint. WordPress.org needs you to acquire your own domain name and hosting site to have total control of your building experience.  WordPress.com uses the open-source program from WordPress and functions as a pro-profit platform held by Automattic.  They both work in helping simplify the process of creating websites.  ## **WordPress.org at a glance** ![](/images/posts/inline/9b8dcbc6-screenshot-wordpress.org-2020.08.05-22_47_50.png) This is considered “the real WordPress”, and is the one most people have seen or heard of when WordPress is talked about. It’s an open-source, self-hosted site that allows you ample creativity. All the content and themes on your website belong to you and you have complete control over how you want to set it up.  WordPress.org is a common choice with rookie and seasoned web designers, invested in detailed customization and stylesheet handling. Here, users are tasked with maintaining updates themselves, with a hands-on approach to downloads and installations. ### **Pros** 1. 100% free to download 2. Connect to custom third party add-ons 3. Choose any theme 4. Boundless capacity for customization 5. It allows you to earn money by managing your ads without splitting the profits. 6. Permits premium membership  7. Combining with platforms like Google Analytics allows you to customize data tracking and analysis ### **Cons** 1. You need to separately purchase a hosting site. 2. Installing of the site occurs separately (not automatic login) 3. The burden of supporting the site and server is on you. 4. You’re responsible for the updates and backups ## **WordPress.com at a glance** ![](/images/posts/inline/685108ff-screenshot-wordpress.com-2020.08.05-22_51_14.png) WordPress.com functions as a hosting site where no additional downloads and installations are needed. All you have to do is log in, create an account, and sit back and let the software take care of the hosting for you.  At its simplest level, all you’ll have to do sign up for a free account, choose your theme, and commence publishing. This makes it a favorite among scholars, bloggers, and creatives who have no interest in exploring the freedom offered by WordPress.org. ### **Pros** 1. Simple to set up with no additional installations  2. Easy to adapt specifically for your site 3. Completely free 4. Accessible to newbies 5. No advanced coding skills needed. 6. Virtually all the technical features are handled for you ### **Cons** 1. Upgrades are needed for advanced adaptation 2. No plugins needed 3. The freely available themes are limited 4. The ads are posted on free webpages, so you can’t make any money from them 5. Selling ads on your site isn’t permitted, thus hampering the profits you can make  6. Only the limited provided themes are accessible, you can’t upload  7. If anything you post is seen as a violation of their terms, your website can be taken down Relevant: [Tips to optimize your website speed](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) ## **Differences** ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Gfslb4Vz7E23zsj_v9lk9PYyfy2E8Xpr6P0PaFiFEp5x3KKSJdGxmCkbOz8Py_E1pJzp01SIaKxFBV8OWQro-w7EcmIJOxGGnyTQskPIrzG-MkaYoq4Z6-gKOso0ptsyuWFOQpS-) Now let’s get down to the differences that set them apart. Their disparities make them suited for different needs as a website developer. And the best part of it all is that if you discover your initial choice doesn’t match up to what you want, you can easily switch between the two. ### **Self-hosted vs. hosted sites** Self-hosting gives users total access and control over their site and content, allowing them to manipulate them as they please and customize the entire process.  Such webpages have their own domain addresses and are anchored by a choice of several hosting sites that provide server space for all types of self-hosting pages. The owners can make alterations as they please and add functions and tools to fully customize their websites. If handling your own hosting and overseeing the server for your site doesn’t sound appealing to you, then WordPress.com may be the CMS for you. It’s accessible by all and effortlessly allows you to have your site up and running without sweating over the complicated features of running the site yourself. However, for the hands-on developers that get a thrill from running everything in a full-system service resolution, then WordPress.org is for you! So, depending on your skills and the level of flexibility you’re after, the choice of sites is up to you. ### **Themes**  All my fellow creatives gather around! This section questions the level of creative control that, as a web designer, you’ll want in setting up your site. Themes are one of the keys, defining features of website building sites. You’ll want a design and ‘feel’ that aligns with your brand, and choosing the right theme is the first step towards that. If you go with WordPress.com, the option of themes you’ll have at your disposal, though large, will be limited to the ones provided. The feature to add external themes isn’t available unless under a premium account. The open-source version WordPress.org is more flexible and permits uploading of themes to expand your theme bank, even without purchasing the premium subscription. With the tools on the admin control panel, even the less tech advanced designers can alter their sites efficiently. An upgrade to premium only makes their already impressive theme library, an irresistible option. The only people I see shying away from this maybe those who find the open-source set up overwhelming and cannot handle managing it themselves. Basic-tweaks enabled by WordPress.com in this case, maybe more appealing to you, though you’ll need to fork out a lot of money to make any significant changes. ### **Plugins** Third-party add-ons allow you to incorporate useful functionalities like online marketing, improving your website’s performance. Both platforms utilize the plugin directory, with features that allow you to view the rating users give you and the number of add-ons included. WordPress.com comes with [pre-installed blogging tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-start-a-blog/) that, for the standard blogger and website developer, including everything they’ll need. These range from social platforms to expand your online presence and interactions and google analytics among others. Outside these built-in features, no additional plugins can be included in WordPress.com.  As an entrepreneur, this is very limiting since you have a restricted number of add-ons you can make.  This is one of WordPress.com’s downfalls, it prioritizes simplicity over flexibility, sacrificing their users’ ability to customize their sites. If you blog for leisure, then the tradeoff may not be a concern for you. However, if you value adaptability and control, then you’ll more likely find WordPress.org better suited for you. A good way to evaluate the plugins you choose lies in the number of downloads. Self-hosted WordPress.org is commended for its boundless options of plugins, free and premium. A more concrete understanding of tech workings is needed to handle this version, and the difference will definitely show in the presentation of your site, so it’s absolutely worth it. Unlike its alternative, WordPress.org doesn’t require you to be subscribed to a premium account to access their useful plugin directory functions. ### **Domain names** An essential aspect of your website is the domain address you’ll opt for. This is a defining aspect of your website’s singularity, and you’re better off owning your domain title in my opinion.  As a platform, WordPress has personalized domain titles that show that your website isn’t anchored by third-parties. With WordPress.com however, this adaptability is only available to premium users, the free version simply reads as “WordPress.com.” The two variations differ in their utilization of the platform’s designing functionality. For the blog-focused, WordPress.com handles almost everything on your behalf, so your own task is to create content. However, with WordPress.org, the software provides a stage for users, and the technicalities of how it’s designed are completely up to the customer. So which is the perfect one for you, you ask? Well, I can’t choose for you, but taking the time to think about your websites’ needs will reveal to you what your priorities are. And with that, you’ll be able to weigh which one best caters to your needs. ### **Ease of use** For starters, both [platforms aim to ease your task of website development](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/), the disparity now comes in how each of them chooses to do so. The control panel they both function under is the same. WordPress.com is specifically tailored for bloggers, and thus, its tools and features are designed to help you manage and put content out. Its set up is arguably more simplified and even beginners won’t struggle to work with it. Simply logging into WordPress.com and initiating your website allows you access to your page. As you go through all the prompts, they’ll guide you until you’re into your account and you can start working instantly. With its counterpart though, familiarity with coding is essential in helping you take your website to the next level. More steps and prompts are involved in WordPress.org, and also more complex.  For starters, you can’t directly go onto the platform to log in, your journey begins on your chosen web host. Once you’re signed in there, you’ll be presented with a choice of two routes of installing your hosting tab. A personal favorite is Bluehost, which gives you access to a single-click installer. Here, like WordPress.com, you only have to give your website title, complete a few details, and you’re done! The marked difference between the two sites is the number of features each has, with WorsPress.com making it less confusing for newbies. But to be transparent, if simplicity is what you’re truly after, WordPress.com isn’t the most streamlined in the industry anyway, so this argument may not hold much water. ### **Pricing** Unless you purchase the business plan, the limitations on your site with WordPress.com will hamper your success. With the free version, you’ll also have to deal with having their ads all over your site. The monthly plan is somewhat affordable and expands what you can do with your site. If you’re willing to sacrifice functionality, then WordPress.com may work for you, though you’ll still need to purchase the domain. Here’s the cost break down of each: ### **E-commerce & monetization** Monetization options vary between the two, with WordPress.com only offering this feature under the premium business plan. Free plans cannot be monetized, but once signed up to their advanced plan, you’ll be able to trade in all sorts of items in over sixty countries and even collaborate with courier companies. WordPress.org on the other hand, lets you monetize your page as you please. There are virtually no restrictions and all the ads displayed on your site are yours, tailored to make you money. Its open-source feature means you can incorporate any monetization software to run. Goods selling isn’t the only means of making money off your website. Collaborating with ad networks means you share a percentage of their revenue, so earning your money. Funded partnerships and associate marketing are carried out significantly more efficiently on WordPress.com. So ultimately, it comes down to how you want to monetize your site. If you want a fully-fledged e-store to trade goods in bulk, WordPress.org is your best option. It affords you total adaptability in handling payments, changing goods, and choosing shipment options. WordPress.org provides the easiest way to build an e-store website or select from various other WordPress eCommerce, membership, and LMS plugins. ### **Blogging** I’m an avid blogger, so this feature for me often does act as a deal-breaker. Depending on the purpose of your site, this may either be a bonus feature you occasionally use, or the center of your entire site. Many bloggers agree that WordPress, regardless of the version, is one of the most powerful blogging platforms in the business. Your blogging content acts as a handy means of creating traffic for your site by attracting people to your site. Words rank highly, so your ability to take advantage of the blogging features will impact how well your site does.  WordPress.com, for both personal and commercial writing purposes, is the commendable option. The writing features are presented to you ready for use, making your writing more streamlined. If however, your website isn’t centered around blogging, and only utilizes the tool as a bonus feature, then WordPress.org will be good for that. ### **SEO** The process of configuring your [website to help you rank better on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) and Bing is a crucial website feature to consider. Both versions provide the same top-quality features for this giving you an edge over most other sites. WordPress sets up sitemaps that are linked to search engines and help locate and read your site, establishing what it’s about. Like the monetization feature, plugins are necessary if you want to take your SEO to the next level. Tweak-able changes like metadata help you choose profitable key terms and linking connections. Both options utilize the functions offered by the main platform WordPress, however, the extra freedom WordPress.org affords you permits making manual adaptations to improve your optimization techniques. ### **Analytics** Keeping an eye on the progress of your website allows you to monitor how well it is doing, enabling you to make changes accordingly. With WordPress.com, at its best, it lets you monitor your traffic and impact, but additional features need the business plan to be accessed. The [trusted Google Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/) isn’t available here, so you’ll have to upgrade to install it.  WordPress.org on the other hand, allows you to monitor data like visitor traffic, bounce rates, the total time users spend on your site, and the conversion rate. This gives you a thorough account of the functionality of your page and highlights how the way you run your site impacts your success and profit and growth. ### **Security and maintenance** Ensuring the security of your site is elemental, especially if it’s more than just a hobby, but a sustainable business forum. Part of that is guaranteeing that the software is up to date. SSL certificates are crucial as they safeguard visitor information as they surf on your website.  These appear as tiny padlocks symbols adjacent to your URL. And as a bonus, when Google is ranking your site, that tiny icon makes all the difference since it tells them how secure your site is. The certificates are incorporated in the monthly plan under WordPress.com but come as a complementary feature in WordPress.org, so you won’t have to renew separately. Again, like most WordPress.com features, their security is arguably more streamlined, though not 100% guaranteed to be safer. Their plans are close-programs and this, according to some site builders, makes it safer by default. You’ll have to size it up yourself. However, with WordPress.org, because it’s open to so many sources, it’s vulnerable to being breached. Thus, you have to be more vigilant in your control over your security, and with the right systems in place, you’ll be just as protected. It’s a consequence you’ll have to deal with in exchange for limitless flexibility and to fasten your defense, you can set up supplementary security plugins. You’ll also be in charge of handling backups and updates.  ### **Copyright & ownership** I know for me, this is crucial since I value having full ownership rights to all my content on my website. One of the major differences between the two is the issue of website ownership.  When you use WordPress.com, then WordPress that essentially controls your site, not you. Since it owns your content, it has the autonomy to take down your website if they decide that some aspect is against their terms. Though this isn’t common, that just means you need to be vigilant with your content so as not to violate their standards. And since the criteria for determining this is up to them, not you, you may lose a bit of your authenticity when conforming to the rules. WordPress.org websites give you complete ownership and don’t interfere in your business. Since you purchase your host sites, security, and domain individually, you have the free will to do as you please. I’ll add here that obviously if your “freewill” violates laws beyond online terms, then you’ll be dealt with by the law officials. If your website is for commercial purposes, then you may feel safer with WordPress.org, since everything you produce belongs to you and you don’t answer to anyone. ### **Help & support** For instance when some errors occur or you’re stuck and don’t know what to do, having a functional support center is crucial. While neither provides the top customer service featured in high-end website developer sites, there are other means to get assistance. No additional help services are available with free WordPress.com, but you can seek help from the WordPress community platforms. This may be stressful since you’ll need to filter through the sea of data to get what applies to you. The blogger plan offers better services and gives you online correspondence assistance. This isn’t as handy and forthcoming as the personal subscription that has a 24-hours service every weekday. With WordPress.org, because you stand as an independent entity, there are no pointed support services available. You’ll have to look into online platforms and other developers to find answers to any issues you encounter. That’s what you get for freedom right! Think of it as baking a cake, WordPress.com suggests a recipe you could use, while WordPress.org leaves you to do it yourself or just order one from the bakery shop. Because of how daunting it may be to handle WordPress.org with no guide, most here opt for WordPress.com. ## **Overall summary** So, which one is better? Unfortunately, I can’t answer that for you, but if you assess what you hope to get out of your choice, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect one for you. If you’re not intimidated by the freedom, the more flexible WordPress.org is for you, and even established brands like Disney use it. For the less technologically experienced, who want an all-in-one solution, then WordPress.com is for you. In WordPress.org you’re a homeowner, in WordPress.com you’re a tenant at a rental. Each has its benefits, and your choice lies in what your plans for your “house” are. I hope you found this comparison useful in outlining the disparities between the two sites, WordPress.org and WordPress.com. If you liked this article, then go ahead and check out our other takes on various website building. - [Adding analytics in Woocommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-add-easy-powerful-google-analytics-in-woocommerce/)  - [All you need to know about Bigcommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-review/)  - [Shopify or Wix? Which one should you choose?](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/) Comment below and let us know what comparisons you want me to break down for your next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Increase Alexa Rank Quickly in 2026(Best Tricks To Improve Ranking) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/ Published: 2022-03-04 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Scripts, SEO, home TL;DR: Read to increase your traffic to 250k/mo Before we dig deeper into how to boost your Alexa, let’s start with the basics. Alexa (acquired by Amazon and the almighty Jeff Bezos) is a company that maintains traffic data regarding websites, and it’s mostly known for its website rank information, called the Alexa Rank. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The Alexa Rank is important as it lets you monitor content performance relative to other sites. If you see your Alexa traffic rank improving, it’s a sign your content is being noticed and attracts an audience. Ways to boost your Alexa Rank include: creating quality content and keeping it updated, sharing it across social media, and doing quality link building. *How can I increase my Alexa rank? Are there any tricks or tips that will boost my Alexa score? Does the Alexa Rank even matter?* For a lot of website owners and new bloggers, it’s hard to get traffic and have a **lower Alexa Rank**. Nothing is more frustrating that [putting amazing content out there](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) just to find out that is not serving a purpose because no one is reading it. ? Knowing [how to SEO a site](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-like-pro/) and [how to write the perfect blog post](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/) are key to gathering traffic that will eventually help you improve your Alexa Rank and will get you [tons of Adsense revenue](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/). ? Read to [increase your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-increase-website-traffic/) to 250k/mo Before we dig deeper into how to boost your Alexa, let’s start with the basics. ## **What is Alexa and what is the Alexa Rank?** [Alexa](http://www.alexa.com/) (acquired by Amazon and the almighty Jeff Bezos) is a company that maintains traffic data regarding websites, and it’s mostly known for its website rank information, called the **Alexa Rank**. The Global Alexa Rank indicates how popular your site is around the world and the Local Alexa Rank shows popularity in the country that the domain has been registered in. ### Where can you get your Alexa Rank? Here you can find the [Alexa Rank](http://www.alexa.com/siteinfo) of your own site.  Additionally, if you are like me and check your Alexa Rank constantly, you can install the [Alexa Traffic Chrome Extension](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/alexa-traffic-rank/cknebhggccemgcnbidipinkifmmegdel?hl=en) or [SEOQuake](http://seoquake.com) (which will give you [other useful SEO data](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools)), so you can quickly see the rank of any page you are visiting. *Related: Here are other [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) you might want to check out.* ## **Does the Alexa Rank matter? Why should anyone care?** The Alexa Rank is a very important tool for [marketers](https://alejandrorioja.com/) as it shows the advertising potential of a site. The lower the number, the more traffic that the site gets and thus the more people that ads can be served to. Domains with lower Alexa Rank are generally regarded as more valuable than domains with higher Alexa Rank. Having a low Alexa Score can [increase the CPC](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) that you get through your Ad network or even help you land nice native advertisers on your site. Therefore, lowering the Alexa Rank of your site could prove beneficial for your business. ![Google Alexa Rank](/images/posts/inline/41f5943a-screenshot-2016-11-08-12.01.49.png) Here’s Google’s Alexa Rank for example ## **What factors affect the Alexa Rankings?** According to the Alexa Blog on “how to improve your alexa rank”: > “Every day, Alexa estimates the average daily visitors and pageviews to every site over the past 3 months. The site with the highest combination of visitors and pageviews over the past 3 months is ranked #1.” In my own experiments I’ve also found that there are multiple other variables (ranked in order of importance) that play a role in the Alexa Rank algorithm. This include: - Traffic from people that use the [Alexa Toolbar](http://www.alexa.com/toolbar) (which is a horrible estimation of number of site visitors) - Number of page views  - Time spent on site per visitor - Bounce Rate and CTR (Click-through-rate). Learn how to [increase your CTR](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/).  - Quality and Diversity of the views - Number of inbounds links to site (also known as backlinks) - Social Media share, likes, comments count - Site Load Speed (which leads to visitors not leaving your site so quickly) - Site UX/UI ## **Do Alexa Rankings affect SEO or traffic?** There’s no direct correlation between [SEO](http://flux.la/the-reality-of-seo/) and Alexa Rank. However, a lower Alexa Rank might imply high amounts of traffic which could be related to having SEO blog posts on the first page of Google. Sites that have their Alexa Rank under 10k, are probably enjoying a good chunks of visitors from the SERPs (Search Engine Results Page).  Find out how to dramatically improve your SEO in my [comprehensive blog post about SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-seo-tips/). Also read my post about [On-Page SEO factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) and [Off-Page SEO factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) for the ultimate search advantage. > Getting backlinks from high authority sites will increase the domain authority of your site and help you rank higher for your search terms. This will help you get more traffic which in turn will **improve your Alexa Rank**. > > Alejandro Rioja > > [Tweet](/) If you want to get listed on high authority sites, read [this post](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/). Bonus: Make sure you do not make any of these [mobile SEO mistakes](https://alejandrorioja.com/mobile-seo-mistakes). ## How many views do I need to be on the top 100,000 sites on the Alexa Rank? Google Analytics and Alexa report different numbers. For instance I have 2 sites on the top 100,000 which report traffic of 30,000 (ranked #99k) and 150,000 visitors per month (ranked #70k). So here are some rough numbers for a month of traffic: - Top 100,000 = 1000 visitors per day. - Top 50,000 = 5000 visitors per day. - Top 20,000 = 10000 visitors per day. - Top 10,000 = 25000 visitors per day. - Top 5,000 =  more than 50000 visitors per day. ### The actual fool-proof method to improve your Alexa Ranking (for free) 1. Actually write amazing content of 2500+ words. If you want to do SEO yourself, here are some [SEO tips](http://flux.la/10-seo-tips-worth-thousands/) that might help. - If you want to attract webmasters (i.e. people that will most likely have the Alexa Toolbar installed) then you should write content that they will most likely read like SEO, digital marketing, etc. If you are writing for moms, talk about newborns, trolleys, baby formulas, etc. - *Did you know* [*RankBrain is the 3rd most important SEO factor when it comes to rankings*](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/)*?* 2. More importantly, share that content everywhere (on Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Pinterest) and get unique page views. You can also try running FB ads to get some more social traffic. 3. [Get high-quality backlinks](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) and do guest posts on other sites to improve your domain authority. (Did you know [I accept guest posts on 4 different sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) I own?) - By increasing your domain authority you will have a much easier time ranking your content, which will drive your visits up and will boost your Alexa Rank. 4. Constantly refresh your old articles (that might have dropped in traffic volume) and also stay up-to-date with the [latest SEO changes](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/). 5. Get covered on major media and drive more traffic to your site. ## Why great content is key to improving your Alexa Rank and your blog in general Every time you write an amazing piece of content, you have an opportunity to rank that blog post high on Google and thus drive additional visitors to your site. More importantly, when you write a great post, you also can turn cold traffic into fans, customers and supporters. These people will keep coming back to your site without you needing to remind them 🙂 (Btw, if you enjoy my content, don’t forget to bookmark my site! You can also go here and read all [my best articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/)) ## How can you write great content? Great content starts with [solid keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). If what you write is not something people are searching for, then it won’t help you increase your traffic. Great content has the following characteristics: - It answers the users questions - It is thorough (2000+ words) - It contains everything you could possibly want to know about that topic - It is easy to read and it is actionable, backed by data or experiences - It is presented with great UI and UX For the step-by-step tutorial on this, head to my [extensive guide to great content writing](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-seo-articles/). ## **How to increase your Alexa fast in in 2020** It wouldn’t be a classic [Alejandro](https://alejandrorioja.com) post if I didn’t show you a [script-based way to solve a problem](https://alejandrorioja.com/scripts), would it? Ok, so here are the simple steps to **lower that Alexa Rank**: 1. Install the dumb [Alexa Toolbar](http://www.alexa.com/toolbar) on multiple browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc). 2. Download your favorite VPN (I like [Windscribe](https://windscribe.com/?affid=aw0m1l28)) and connect to it.  3. Go to PageReboot on every browser, put your site and set the refresh time every 60 seconds (or longer if you’re patient). 4. Sit back, relax, read [another one of my blog posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-facebook-script/), and wait for about 15-20 min. 5. You can change the country in [Windscribe](https://windscribe.com/?affid=aw0m1l28) now. 6. (Optional but recommended if you have the budget) Get your Alexa page certified by buying [one of their plans](http://www.alexa.com/plans). For best results, do this at different times of the day and also change your IP Address every 10 or so minutes. Your Alexa Rank should update every day if you have a rank < 100,000 or every week otherwise, so expect to see the results of the boost in about two weeks or so. ## Other blackhat methods to improve the Alexa Rank of your site 1. Don’t have time? Buy a fake rank by hiring someone on [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com/s2/16ee5003e0) 2. Use an Alexa boosting service like [RankBoostUp](http://rankboostup.com). 3. (Not necessarily blackhat) Buy a highly trafficked domain and redirect it to your site. i.e. CNN.com -> [theinsurancenerd.com](http://theinsurancenerd.com) ## Aside: Which sites are in the Alexa Top 10 Global? According to [Alexa Top Sites,](https://www.alexa.com/topsites) these are the most visited sites in the world in 2019: 1. Google 2. Youtube 3. Facebook 4. Baidu 5. Wikipedia 6. QQ 7. Taobao 8. Tmall 9. Yahoo 10. Amazon 11. [Flux Chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/) (jokes) 12. [AlejandroRioja.com](https://alejandrorioja.com/) (soon!) ## So, what is a good Alexa Rank number? That is a highly subjective question. I know many bloggers that would kill for a global rank under 100k. For others that numbers is still too high. I think 100k is a good metric for bloggers whose main job is not blogging, especially since at <100k the metrics reported by Alexa get more and more accurate. At the same time, I suggest that instead of just looking at a number in isolation, you compare that number with other blogs you like and that are in your industry. For instance if you write about cooking, you can compare your site to AllRecipes (Alexa Rank = 692) and Martha Stewart (Alexa Rank = 5.3k) or even Jamie Oliver (8k). Ultimately, the number doesn’t matter much as long as your main objective is accomplished. I know many thriving ecommerce stores whose Alexa is well over 500k. ## Benefits of having a lower Alexa Assuming your Alexa rank is legit and hasn’t been tampered, there are some good benefits you can expect from a lower number: 1. You will get more business. A lot of bloggers will reach out to guest write on your site and people might trust you more. 2. Your site will be referenced and copied more (i.e. backlinks). A lot of bots are running around copying content from different sites that generate traffic. Most of the times you will garner new links this way. Since these copied sites usually have lower [Domain Authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), your site won’t be affected by duplicate content penalties. 3. You can see other interesting metrics on the Alexa rank page such as these audience demographics on Gender, Education and Location:  ![alexa rank demographic info](/images/posts/inline/1213efb7-alexa-rank-demographic-info.png) (Note you can see these on Google Analytics too) 4. You will be able to brag to your friends ## Conclusion about the Alexa Rank So there are two ways to grow your Alexa: either through [content that SEOs to the top](http://flux.la/perfect-seo-optimized-article/) or by means of scripts and fake traffic with the Alexa Toolbar installed (or an Alexa booster service). If you’re wondering… **No, I didn’t use this to modify my Alexa**. I care about accurate metrics and my traffic comes from search and social. I would honestly strongly advise against using any sort of blackhat or hackish ways to increase your rank because in the long run those will hurt your business. The best way is to simply [create amazing content and grow a business out of it](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/). **Want an added boost to improve your Alexa?** *Comment on this page with your url to get a free backlink* to your site (which will increase your SEO). Also let me know if it worked and which other techniques you use!  If you liked this post, you should also check out: - My comprehensive guide to put your [SEO on steroids](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)  - [How to Build A Million Dollar Ecommerce Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/)  - How to write the [perfect SEO article](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-perfect-seo-article/) - The [ULTIMATE list of on-page SEO factors](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) (seriously… are you going to leave this site without checking it? Then don’t complain about not ranking #1) - The list of [keywords that will make you the most money](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) !! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top 5 Video Editing Software Of May 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-video-editing-software-of-2021/ Published: 2022-03-04 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Reviews ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Video editing software is a necessary tool for anyone looking to make a professional or personal film. But choosing the right video editing software can be a challenge. There are many products out there, each with its unique features, functions, and price points. It’s important to look at all of these factors when making a decision. This guide will help you decide which software suits your needs. The best video editing software for everyone has a specific set of features, ease of use, price, and more. Keep reading to know which software is the best suited for you. ## Importance of Choosing the Best Video Editing Software Video editing programs are an integral part of the video production process. The best video editing software will make editing and enhance my videos with various tools and techniques. I’ll be able to edit and combine multiple videos, create titles, add effects, and more.  The right video editing software will help you produce professional-looking videos that will stand out. You can also use these videos to help your social media engagement rise. Check out more [tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) here. In this article, I will review the chosen top 5 video editing software available today. I will also be discussing the benefits and drawbacks of each to make an informed decision. Let’s dive in! Relevant: Read how to level up your video marketing online [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-you-can-level-up-as-a-video-marketer-online/) ## 1\. Adobe Premiere Pro CC  ![](/images/posts/inline/d8ae7291-adobe-premier-pro.png) ### US Price: $19.99  ### Interface [Premiere Pro](https://www.forbes.com/sites/tonybradley/2013/11/22/adobe-premier-pro-streamlines-video-editing/?sh=6dd8c0dd6e2e) has a flexible interface. The startup view helps to quickly access the projects I’ve been working on, start new projects, or search for Adobe Stock footage. The dark program window makes my clips easy to find, and I can switch among workspaces, such as assembly, editing, color, effects, sound, and more.  I can edit all these and create my custom workspaces and even pull off any of the panels and place them wherever I want on my display. Not to mention, You can also create content bins based on search terms too. However, the interface lacks a permanent search box for finding commands, content, help, and other major apps, including Adobe’s own Photoshop and Microsoft Office. By default, editors use four panels for the layout, with the source preview at the top left, a project preview at the top right, project assets at the lower left, and the timeline tracks at the lower right. Control buttons can be removed and added accordingly.  Since many editors heavily rely on keyboard alphabet shortcuts for navigating through a project, fewer buttons and a cleaner screen display make a lot of sense. It’s an adaptable interface, and I can undock and drag around windows directly to my content.  Another helpful feature is hovering the mouse over a clip in the source panel scrubs through the video. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros 1. Clean and modifiable interface 2. Has lots of organizational tools 3. A rich ecosystem of video production apps 4. Unlimited Multicam angles #### Cons 1. No keyword tagging for media 2. Some techniques require additional applications (e.g., After Effects or SpeedGrade) ### Output and Performance Premiere Pro works well with 64-bit CPUs and multiple cores. A 5-minute video with a mix of 4K, HD, and SD clips, with various transitions, applied to H.264 at 1080p30 with a target bit rate of 15Mbps, took Premiere Pro 1 hr and 40 mins on the PC. However, Corel VideoStudio aced the test with 1:12 and CyberLink PowerDirector, slightly beating out Premiere Pro with a time of 1:32.  Both are faster than Adobe’s consumer version of Premiere—Elements that took 4:10. Premiere periodically autosaves the work if you forget. ## 2\. CyberLink PowerDirector ![](/images/posts/inline/7ab4b841-cyberlink-powerdirector.png) ### US Price: $129.99 ### Interface The user interface is a simple program with several options, but it can still get overwhelming when in the middle of fine-tuning videos or audio effects. It’s not as simple and user-friendly as it has more capabilities. The PowerDirector editing interface provides the traditional source and preview split panels on the top, while the track timeline is along the whole width of the bottom of the screen. There are two video preview windows, one for the source and one for the movie. It can save time from having to switch a single preview window between its functions. In the storyboard view, transitions are draggable between clips, you can apply effects, and audio clips can be added without switching to timeline view. The search box for media and buttons at the top of the source panel shows only video, photos, or audio.  Buttons direct to video tutorials that pop up in the upper right corner based on my current activity. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros 1. Clear interface 2. Loads of effects 3. 360-degree video capabilities  4. Multicam editing 5. 3D and 4K capabilities 6. Motion tracking 7. Screen recording ####  Cons 1. Numerous options can make the interface overwhelming 2. Weak color matching ### Output and Performance CyberLink’s investment in 64-bit optimizations and accelerating graphics hardware is worth it. Other speed-boosters such as OpenCL (Open Computing Language) support and intelligent SVRT determine your clips’ best-quality output and fastest editing. In the latest performance testing, the program remained faster than any other video editing software review. I tested rendered time by creating a movie with five clips of mixed types (1080p, SD, and some 4K) with a standard set of transitions and rendering it to 1080p30 MPEG-4 at 15.5Mbps, H.264 High Profile. The audio is set to MPEG AAC Audio: 384 Kbps.  The 5-minute movie just took 1 hour and 32 mins for PowerDirector to finish. During rendering, PowerDirector also shows the elapsed time, remaining time, and the frame in the movie the process is currently rendering. It is a great way to know how long the editing will take. ## 3\. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate ![](/images/posts/inline/c2ea75d7-corel-videostudio-ultimate.png) ### US Price: $99.99 ### Interface VideoStudio starts by showing the welcome view represented by a house-shaped icon. On the Welcome page, you can find inspirations and instructions through tutorials, videos, and templates.  The interface has clean, flat icons across the bottom instead of thumbnails. It also has a Get Started section that allows you to create a new project or open existing ones already created.  The Get More section has extra-cost templates, filters, and more. Its Editing interface uses a three-pane view with source and effects, the video preview occupies half the top portion of the window, and the timeline takes the whole bottom portion.  Clear buttons on the content window’s right side give access to the most commonly used tools, such as transitions, effects, and more. The source panel makes it convenient to show and hide videos, photos, and other content types. Corel also produces Pinnacle Studio, which targets pro-level users.  ## Pros and Cons #### Pros 1. Support for 360-degree VR, 4K Ultra HD, and 3D media 2. Multipoint Motion tracking 3. Color grading 4. Cool stop-motion tool #### Cons 1. No keyword tagging for organizing media 2. Audio-editing capabilities are weaker than some competitors’ offerings ### Output and Performance VideoStudio supports H.265, the newer compression codec that allows higher resolutions, such as 4K, with smaller file sizes. However, that feature depends on whether the hardware (CPU or the GPU) supports the codec.  The rendering time is tested by creating a movie consisting of four clips of mixed types (some 1080p, some SD, and some 4K) with a standard set of transitions and rendering it to 1080p30 MPEG-4 at 15Mbps, H.264 High Profile Audio was MPEG AAC Audio: 192 kbps. Corel VideoStudio’s rendering speed for the test was 1 minute and 12 seconds.  ## 4\. Pinnacle Studio Ultimate ![](/images/posts/inline/be905c14-pinnacle-studio-ultimate-1.png) ### US Price: $129.95 ### Interface Import is shown in the full program window, making it easy to pick the types of importing I need, whether from DVD, computer folders, or stop-motion. The software can import 4K content. Search bars also help find the contents you haven’t marked instead of searching for words in the filenames. However, that feature depends on whether the hardware (CPU or the GPU) supports the codec.  Pinnacle’s editing interface program uses the concept of Project Bins, where all the content for a given movie project, clips, photos, and sound files, but not effects and transitions, are stashed.  It is a common approach for pro-level apps such as Adobe Premiere Pro, and it’s a feature that Corel’s other line, VideoStudio, does not include. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros 1. Tons of effects 2. Multicam editing 3. Powerful title editor 4. Detailed masking tools  #### Cons 1. Limited motion tracking 2. Uneven 360-degree VR implementation ### Output and Performance Pinnacle can extract animated GIFs from short movies. You have to change the extensions and choose GIFs, as this choice is hidden and not included in the Format dropdown. Click the pencil button to see options like Loop Play and framerate. You can also export to a disk in various file formats, such as AVCHD; DivX; MKV; MPEG-1, 2, and 4; QuickTime; and WMV. Presets let me reach my output format to devices such as the iPhone and Xbox. The latest version can export to the H.265 HEVC format, which is important for 4K and 8K contents since it doubles compression while maintaining image quality. ## 5\. Nero Video ![](/images/posts/inline/92190cdb-nero-video.png) ### US Price: $49.99 ### Interface The Nero interface looks different from most editors, and it feels a bit outdated. You can begin by capturing media from a device, opening the editor or an existing project, or starting a disc-burning project. Video files can be dragged and dropped onto the program window. The default timeline view, Express Editing, shows clip thumbnails in a storyboard format. Clicking the vertical tab on the right labeled Advanced Editing takes me to the more standard timeline-track view. You can’t switch back to Express if you have already made an edit in Advanced.  Once the clip is dragged onto the timeline, it will go next to the last clip. The timeline is draggable to expand and contract using the mouse wheel. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros 1. Budget-friendly 2. Solid file format support (including H.265) 3. Compatible with 4K content 4. Burns DVD, Blu-ray, and AVCHD #### Cons 1. Light on features 2. Outdated and unconventional interface 3. Without 360 or 3D support 4. No motion tracking 5. No direct output to social networks ## Can I Edit Videos for Free? ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Zy0tjAvi3s5PBhqwWr6mVOcTAl51XAja4mO_2aWTS4pXtfnTkz-p-ICnuEbOQXLx15FKYr9WC9-e8vQ-4nvaENm0J0WPHTOQCOpo7cfL4is7Iuxg-RU61-gPLTDOkgsUYJInrqN5=s1600) Suppose I don’t want to spend money editing videos. In that case, there are lots of available [free software](https://www.forbes.com/2008/05/28/adobe-editing-tools-tech-info-cz_vb_0528adobe/?sh=27a712262130) but remember that many of these free software have big limitations, like ads, watermarks, and very limited options.  You can also resort to a free trial of one of the paid options listed above. It will help everyone explore the options before making a decision. ## When Should You Purchase Video Editing Softwares? The Top video editing software products get discounts that come up now and then. However, there is a specific time of year that I am more likely to see slightly higher markdowns, especially near the end of the year. Before, Adobe has offered up to 40% off its apps.  Buying video editing software can also help you make videos that will help [drive traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/) to your website. ## Bottom line Now that you have had the chance to read about the different video editing software, you can finally decide which is the best for you. Thinking of editing TikTok videos? Have a read [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-edit-tiktok-videos-like-a-pro/). Take into account the features and functions offered by each of the programs. It’s important to decide on the one that matches your needs and skill level. Did you like this article? Check these out: - [Best 8 Landing Page Optimization Tools 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/landing-page-optimization-tools/) - [What Is Shadow Banning, And How Do You Fix It?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-shadow-banning/) - [How To Edit TikTok Videos Like A Pro!](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-edit-tiktok-videos-like-a-pro/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## The Best Growth Hacking Stories You Need to Know For 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/ Published: 2022-03-03 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, SEO TL;DR: Now, the e-commerce brand I have built from the ground up generates over $100k/month in sales revenue and reaches over 90 countries. My blogging is also an example of growth I achieved. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. You may already know this if you are a reader of my blogs, but I started [Flux Chargers](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers) by selling in the streets of Santa Monica.  It was hard, revenue was only a few bucks a day, and online sales were quite challenging to come by. But fortunately, growth started to happen within a year and a half. Now, the e-commerce brand I have built from the ground up generates over $100k/month in sales revenue and reaches over 90 countries.  My blogging is also an example of growth I achieved. My first three years saw lackluster content, awful traffic, and ads revenue were close to nonexistent.  But later on, as I gathered more knowledge, experience, and strategies, then everything slowly started looking up for my blog. Now I run numerous blogs, have decent web traffic, and my ad revenue continues to grow.  These situations show that it is not enough to only have an awesome startup. Growth will not happen on its own; you need to find ways to boost them.   Growing a business is the goal of pretty much any entrepreneur but finding ways to propel your startup to the next level sometimes takes a toll on you.  Read these growth hacking stories and take inspiration from their brilliant strategies.  ## What is growth hacking? Let’s face it: the cold reality in the present startup environment is to build your company fast or get left behind in the dust and face failure. That is why the buzzworthy status of “growth hacking,” which has gained a lot of rave and mileage over the recent years, is not a surprise anymore.  Forget about “iterating” and “pivoting,” “growth hacking” is the brand new buzz nowadays. It is a relatively new field in digital marketing used by both early-stage startups and, recently, by bigger companies and organizations.  Growth hacking is an umbrella term used to denote strategies focused solely on growth. At the start, the term was merely used concerning startups with small budgets but needed massive growth rates.  Traditionally growing a company will, of course, need a budget, but startups may not always have money on hand. This is where growth hacking comes in; a company somehow ‘hacks’ the system and tries to generate users and growth while spending as little money as possible.  A team focused on growth hacking is made up of marketers, managers, engineers, and developers that focus on building, nurturing, and engaging the users of a company.  Also Read: [My best digital media articles here](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) ### The growth hackers Growth hackers are the central people involved in the growth hacking process of a company.  1. Growth hackers utilize low-cost, scalable, and creative strategies in their pursuit of growing a consumer base. These [include social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/), search engine, and viral marketing, targeted advertising, or search engine optimization, among others. 2. Growth hackers also go by the term “growth marketers,” but they are not merely marketers. Anyone involved in a growth hacking project can be considered a growth marketer.   3. Growth hackers can be some of the most analytical and curious people you will ever meet.  4. They are focused only on growth strategies and nothing else. They hypothesize, test their hypothesis, and analyze the results afterward.  5. The best growth hacker has the chops to set growth targets and priorities and identify markets for acquiring customers. Once he has done that, he measures success through reports and statistics and devises ways to scale the growth of the company further.  Growth hackers utilize various types of [scalable marketing techniques](https://flux.la/seo/) (e.g., SEO, social media, email marketing), among many other tools, to rapidly increase consumer base and growth.  ### How growth hacking works  The basic tenet of growth hacking is this: figure out how your business grows and find ways to make that happen on purpose. Many growth hackers use Dave McClure’s [AARRR pirate funnel](https://www.inc.com/walter-chen/aarrr-dave-mcclure-s-pirate-metrics-and-the-only-five-numbers-that-matter.html) strategy as a framework, but what is applicable differs from company to company.  Startups do not have a lot of money and experience. So to combat this, the growth hacking team focuses on innovation, user connectivity, and scalability in their marketing campaigns.  Companies and startups that have successfully done growth hacking naturally have a viral loop for their onboarding process. Potential customers hear about the product through their network, try it themselves, and share it with their connections, who then share it with theirs, and so on.  This loop creates awareness and results in growth at a fraction of the cost with traditional marketing models.  While the methods will vary from one company to another, they always have a common ground: a relentless pursuit for growth. Mark Zuckerberg [started Facebook](https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/homepage-redesign-increase-email-signups) with this as the only factor in mind.  The point is to get visitors, convert them into customers, retain them for a long time, and make them inclined to talk about your product to others.  ### Growth hacking strategies There are no set kinds of growth hacking strategies, but they generally fall into three main types.  1. Advertising 2. Content Marketing 3. Product Marketing Content marketing can be an effective way to spread word about your product at a relatively little cost. Some content marketing activities are as follows:  1. Creating valuable content through starting a blog  2. Guest posting in other blogs  3. Generating content for social media posts 4. Podcasting  5. Writing ebooks  6. Joining relevant communities, groups, and forums 7. Email marketing campaigns 8. SEO to improve content ranking 9. Getting listed in relevant marketplaces   Product marketing are techniques to make the product more appealing to potential customers. They include: 1. An invite-only sign-up system to leverage the public’s fear of missing out  2. Offering rewards in the onboarding process to make it more enjoyable 3. Referral incentives that benefit both the old and new user  4. Affiliate marketing schemes   Growth hacking represents the singular pursuit of companies: developing a customer base. A growth hacker is interested only in attracting and retaining customers.  It entails the right blend of product development and marketing activities designed based on what works for your specific company and target niche. Many of the companies and websites that we interact with today on a nearly daily basis achieved success through smart growth hacking measures.  Note, however, that growth hacking is a concept and not a tried and tested set of steps. If the idea of growth hacking still feels quite challenging to comprehend for you, then the best way  to understand it is to look at successful real-world implementations and examples.  ## Best growth hacking stories Here are some of the best growth hacking stories you can take inspiration and learn from.  ### Dropbox: A successful referral scheme  Dropbox is a cloud file hosting storage service, created in 2007, that had one million registered users in April 2009. In the early days of the platform, however, the number of registered Dropbox users increased to almost [half a billion](https://www.statista.com/statistics/261820/number-of-registered-dropbox-users/#:~:text=As%20of%20March%202016%2C%20the,reached%2012.7%20million%20in%202018.&text=Dropbox%20is%20a%20cloud%20storage,access%20files%20in%20the%20cloud.), and the amount of premium paying users reached over [12 million in 2018](https://www.statista.com/statistics/261820/number-of-registered-dropbox-users/#:~:text=As%20of%20March%202016%2C%20the,reached%2012.7%20million%20in%202018.&text=Dropbox%20is%20a%20cloud%20storage,access%20files%20in%20the%20cloud.).  ![](/images/posts/inline/510ad5c0-screenshot-www.dropbox.com-2020.06.02-22_40_23-3.png) Dropbox started like any other company, small with little marketing budget. They began to explore and implement advertising but received little to no positive impact.  The cost of acquiring a new customer outweighed the price they had to pay for the product, resulting in a net loss for the company. Now, not many businesses will reach that type of growth within a relatively short span, but Dropbox did. What led to the astronomical growth of Dropbox, which it achieved with little to no advertising?  There are a multitude of factors that propelled dropbox into a multi-billion dollar company, but the most prominent is their ingenious referral system.  Dropbox offered a 500 Mb storage space to any user who invited a friend, and the said friend registered for a dropbox account. With this technique, Dropbox users soared by millions over the years, with only storage space as the cost of acquisition. That is, frankly, quite impressive.  Not to mention that the incentives are multiplied for each referral. You could get GB’s worth of additional storage space with many referrals. This system was able to generate their customer base because incentives and referrals are generally more credible than ads.  The way Dropbox handled the referral situation was dubbed as “the most successful referral program ever.” The company saw massive growth by finding and meeting a legitimate market need and is now a leader in the creative cloud space.  #### Bottom line Dropbox is one of the most well-known cases of successful growth hacking and referral marketing. And instead of doing it with expensive online advertising, they did it through different methods.  1. Dropbox enabled gathering referrals through social media sites. The onboarding process integrates the referral program by connecting it through Facebook and Google.  2. They relied on the retention value their product offers. Through referrals, the user’s storage space increases, making them feel more committed to the product and less likely to search for alternatives.  3. Both sides were rewarded, the customer who recommended the program and the person who registered through the recommendation.  ### Airbnb: An example of non-conventional growth hacking ![](/images/posts/inline/90422a13-screenshot-www.airbnb.com-2020.06.03-13_55_20.png) Airbnb is an online marketplace facilitating rentals for vacations and trips. Their listings will let you score reasonably affordable accommodations almost anywhere in the world.  Their financials in 2017 showed $93 million in profit and a whopping [$2.6 billion in revenue](https://www.businessinsider.com/airbnb-profit-revenue-2018-2). And forecasts show that the company does not show any sign of dying off or even slowing down.  A little over a decade ago, though, Airbnb was nothing special. It started when two broke guys who cannot afford the rent on their apartment decided to convert it into a lodging space.  During that time, Craigslist was the premier classifieds site with millions of registered users. But the duo did not want to post their listing on the website; they instead built their own.  There was a conference heading to their town, and all the nearby hotels were almost fully booked. They set up a simple website with a few photos of their space, complete with air beds and breakfast in the morning.  One by one, emails started pouring, asking when the site would be of use in various other localities, such as Japan and London.  The Airbnb growth hacking story is one of the most cited examples of all time, owing to the ingenuity of the strategy. How did Air bed and breakfast grow to become the primary vacation rentals search website it is today?  While still in its infancy, Airbnb used a traditional promotion campaign. Combining personal relations and word of mouth, they attended tech events where a shortage of accommodations is likely.  The early stages saw a rise in their popularity, but it is still not enough for Airbnb to be a household brand. They found another relatively simple solution to drive more traffic to their site, and that is to improve the quality of the photos listing.  First, they traveled to photograph the listings themselves, but later on, they hired their photographers to do the work.  Their next move, and is probably their most brilliant one, is the hack that accelerated Airbnb’s growth.  Remember that Craigslist was the biggest classifieds site at that time, they had a massive existing customer base, and Airbnb was new. However, Airbnb found a hole in Craigslist’s site code, which allowed the users who posted on Airbnb to cross-post to Craigslist.  The Craigslist users who saw the posting can only contact the owner if they joined Airbnb. They also noticed that the Airbnb site looked superior to the other; the photographs were nicer, the descriptions were more vivid, and the experience was overall more personal.  Craigslist eventually saw the deficiency in their code and fixed it, but the rest is already history by that point. The maneuver had already earned Airbnb users, the site went viral, and more and more people were interested in listing their property with Airbnb.   #### Bottom line Growth hacks have no definite form and method. Some strategies, such as improving photo quality, are simple, and some, such as hacking an entire site to allow cross-posting, entails complex work.  Creativity and innovation are cornerstones in growth hacking, and Airbnb is the prime example of a non-traditional growth hack resulting in astronomical growth.  ### PayPal: Offering free money ![](/images/posts/inline/cf9d7fed-paypal.png) PayPal is, at present, a prime company when it comes to online payments. PayPal is the world’s leading electronic payment processing platform for money transfers and orders, as well as checks. As with many startups, PayPal’s problem at first is getting new customers. Advertising was costly, and they needed an organic and viral way to grow.  And they found that. Today, PayPal acquired a user base numbering over millions and is a recognizable name when it comes to online payments. But just what did they do to achieve such a feat?  PayPal also began its growth journey through a referral program, akin to Dropbox. But instead of offering free storage, they offered free money.  They actually paid users who sign up. Weird, I know, but few things rival money as a motivator.  The referral program worked like this: every time you refer a friend, and they created an account on PayPal, both you and your referred friend would get $10. PayPal understood that the lifetime customer value would be higher than $20.  By the time PayPal sunset the referral program, they had accumulated related expenses of about $60 million. Although they essentially gave free money away, it was still better than the associated advertising costs.  And it brought them a lot of customers. It may have also been an instrument to help them cross the point on the way to exponential growth.  In addition to that, [eBay’s acquisition of PayPal](https://www.cnet.com/news/ebay-picks-up-paypal-for-1-5-billion/#:~:text=Like%20many%20of%20its%20customers,service%2C%20eBay%20Payments%20by%20Billpoint.) in 2002 further accelerated the payment company’s growth.  The deal put their badge beside eBay’s other payment options. This led to added visibility and credibility by placing them beside more prominent players, such as Visa and MasterCard.  Another is eBay sellers who started to accept PayPal as the only payment option was becoming increasingly common by that time. However, to use Paypal, one has to create an account with the platform.  Now, PayPal is a large company with its subsidiaries and supports the currencies of many different countries worldwide.  #### Bottom line Sometimes, good old economics plays a significant role in acquiring customers. It is not only about innovation and creativity alone; the right mix of these three does the trick.   Also, if you know your costs and limits, then you can think of an incentive that will make sense both for your customer and for you.  ### Instagram: A perfect product-market fit  ![](/images/posts/inline/dcd78d82-screenshot-about.instagram.com-2020.06.02-22_31_16-8.png) Growth hackers strive to find what they call the product-market fit (PMF). Now the growth of Instagram is not exactly a hack, but a great example of how PMF affects the growth of a business.  Instagram was offered at the right time, under the right circumstances, and perfectly aligned with user needs: a place to interact where you would only share photos, rather than short statuses and tweets.  The rise of smartphones means everyone has a decent camera inside their pockets, making it easier for people to satisfy the urge to share life experiences with the online community. Instagram improved social interaction through photos.  Influencer marketing also [helped Instagram grow](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) to the reach it has today. Their marketing team sent the app to tech journalists and enthusiasts for review, and it garnered positive attention through the review posts.  So from a company [acquired by Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) in 2012 with a mere 35 million users and approximately little to no revenue, it [crossed the 1 billion users mark](https://techcrunch.com/2018/06/20/instagram-1-billion-users/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly90aGVuZXh0c2Nvb3AuY29tL2dyb3d0aC1oYWNraW5nLXN0b3JpZXMtZnJvbS1zdWNjZXNzZnVsLXN0YXJ0dXBzLw&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAKOW8h2bPktxsuvBb-BxsACsmztpo1K357YwJ85woXp7aH1zAuxPhpjiBX7aMjJZsqY5BwDCGMBKDYtqNronMU4Uvw1n1IFRSIrpCKbj6Pr2DZWymGIpO6KeVTiJosGfBHCcHrcuIyKF8ooVqv3JmII3gFXnmsuU21s7DQi-8_Xo) in 2018. It’s a pretty big leap.  Add in the fact that Facebook, through the integration of Instagram, effectively marketed the app through cross-promotion, and you can tell that the number will not fall anytime soon.  #### Bottom line A perfect product-market fit is the foundation of growth. No promotion campaigns or hacks can ever help a business with no product-market fit.   Find your target customer’s needs and wants, then create a product that they will derive value from and will want to share with others.  ### Uber: smart growth techniques  ![](/images/posts/inline/b815cb47-uber-4.png) When you think of ride-hailing apps and companies, one of the businesses you immediately think of is Uber.  Uber is a multinational company providing transport-related services, such as ridesharing, ride-hailing, and food delivery. Their estimated monthly active users in 2018 numbered to about [95 million](https://www.statista.com/statistics/833743/us-users-ride-sharing-services/) and are still growing.  Their growth strategy involves a brilliant and sophisticated approach.  1. Uber chooses a new target market location based on numerous elements: events, weather, nightlife, and the availability of taxis. By doing so, they ensure that they have a market to serve.  2. Uber built a multinational brand by providing solutions to the shortcomings associated with local taxi services, such as high prices, the safety of transport, mode of payment, and the need to wait and hail one.   3. Their data shows that users who availed the service once would most likely do it again, so they began to offer $20 to new users, and put it in their respective Uber App wallets. Like PayPal, they knew that the lifetime customer value would exceed that amount down the line.  4. The company relied on word of mouth and great use of [PR, even negative](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-respond-to-customer-reviews-to-improve-aso-rankings/). They promoted the ease of use and accessibility of their product, as well as leveraged the free exposure and publicity given by fighting their legal battles.  All of these things combined contributed to the growth Uber is experiencing today.  #### Bottom line Traditional advertising campaigns through marketing channels could be costly to implement and produce insignificant gains. Uber has shown that even negative PR can impact a company positively.  ## Wrapping up! Growth hacking may be a new and foreign phrase, but it is not exactly a new idea.  It almost always involves utilizing the features of the product rather than relying solely on the marketing process. A common denominator between growth hacking processes and strategies is that a consumer derives more value from the product through social interaction and sharing.  The growth stories listed above are, what companies strive to emulate for themselves, and what growth hacker’s dreams are made of. It is essential to know how companies implemented growth hacking for their success, but remember not to get too caught up in emulating them too much.  While examples like the ones above are quite few and far between, they serve as inspirational stories to inspire growth hackers to find and devise their scheme.  There is no direct formula in growing a business, no set of steps leading to the same result for each company.  But if you take time to understand your business, how the people discover it, and what will make them a long-time customer, then you have the necessary ingredients for growth hacking.   Liked this post? Do you have your own growth hacking stories you want to share? Feel free to tell them in the comments section below.   Want to read more about startups, or digital marketing in general? Here are some good ones:  - [Choosing a YouTube Channel Name](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-pick-a-youtube-channel-name/) - [Increasing TikTok Followers and Creating Viral Content](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-followers-on-tiktok/) - [Some Great Growth Hacks](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Do Link Prospecting for Backlink Building 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/link-prospecting/ Published: 2022-03-03 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Post written by Kherk Roldan. If you want to guest post, please follow [these instructions](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/).*  Building links might look like an easy task for normal people but for [SEO gurus](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/), it’s something that needs to be taken seriously. In order to find high-quality link opportunities, you need to be able to cover opportunities wide enough to generate the right targets that would bring phenomenal results to your campaign. To give you an idea of how they do it, let’s start with the first part of link building: **Link Prospecting** Link prospecting is the task of pursuing relevant links that you can use for your blog or website. It is essentially the first step in link building. In my own opinion, link prospecting is a time consuming and laborious process. However, it’s probably the best course of action to take if you want to continue thriving online. There are a lot of tools you can use to find link opportunities. Like any other link prospector, you can start pursuing links through Google. In this post, I will be sharing 4 common methods to help you start building links. ## **1\. Make Use of Advanced Search Modifiers** This is probably the most common method used by link prospectors in the early stages of their link building journey. It is the perfect method to use when you are looking to find opportunities for collaborations, sponsorships, or guest blogging since it is quick and easy to use. By using advanced search modifiers, you will be able to make your search results more refined and specific. Here are some examples of modifiers you can employ: - **Quotation marks (“”)**. You can employ an exact phrase search by pacing your query in between the quotation marks (i.e “query”). Doing this gives Google an idea of what you’re exactly looking for. This type of modifier is ideal when you are aiming to find a website that accepts guest blogging. (i.e. “guest post accepted”) - **Inurl Search.** Using this search operator filters your search results to websites that has a specific keyword in their URL or the specific domain extension. For example, you type in inurl:”link prospecting”. The results will give you a list of websites that have the “link prospecting” keyword in its URL. - **Intitle Search**. This type of search query helps on filtering relevant topics and refines your search result into pages that have the specific terms you are looking for. It could also help you in expanding your list of potential keywords. (intitle: “how to”) - **Insite Search.** This type of search modifier is mainly for specifying organization types. It is especially ideal when finding high-quality link opportunities. For example, insite: .org “link prospecting” Using some of these modifiers could be extremely helpful in narrowing down your results. Moreover, combining two search operators could further refine your results and help you acquire a more specific link that would suit your needs. ## **2\. Use Reverse Image Search** Due to the internet’s easy access, images have become free-for-all. Most people don’t realize that letting others use their image could offer a great opportunity for them. A piece of advice: if you happen to see your image on one of the websites, reach out. Don’t waste your time doing legal action but instead, use it to your advantage. Send a polite email asking them to mention and link your website as the source of the image. Tinyeye is a tool commonly used by link prospectors to track their images. It’s easy and accurate which makes it one of the top tools I find helpful in link prospecting. ## **3\. Take Advantage of Social Media to Find Niche Bloggers** There’s no denying the effectiveness of building relationships through the social media. Reaching out to bloggers within your niche can definitely develop relationships which you can use in promoting your campaign. Every single blogger can most likely be found on every social media platforms. Most of the time, you can see their social profiles posted somewhere on their website. Chances are they are also looking for potential link opportunities. ## **4\. Ask for Advice** Once you’ve [developed a relationship with bloggers](https://alejandrorioja.com/effectively-engage-contributors-major-publications/), don’t be afraid to ask for an advice. Ask for tips on how to improve your link prospecting skills. Or better yet, what websites are worth following. This can be useful in tracking sites you may haven’t discovered yet. In the end, learning the proper way to pursue link opportunities lie in your eagerness to succeed. In order to become successful in pursuing links, you should at least be able to have enough understanding of the basics of link prospecting. Combine it with creativity and patience and you’ll be building solid links to your website in no time. Now read: - [How to create content that will get you backlinks organically](https://alejandrorioja.com/write-seo-articles/) - Follow these [SEO steps](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) to rank at the top - [How to find the juiciest keywords to target](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Fiverr Review 2026: Outsource Your Tasks for $5+ Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/ Published: 2022-03-02 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: These types of sellers are reliable, have been on Fiverr for more than 180 days, and have successfully worked on more than 100 gigs earning more than $20.000. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* ? Discount: You can use this link to [get 20% of your first purchase on Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55).  There’s nothing quite like being your own boss and making the rules for yourself, right?  We live in fast-paced societies where it is getting hard to achieve all of the things that we want.  I know how hard it is to work a regular 9-to-5 job, try to catch up with friends, and still have some time for [my SEO hobby](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) and travels.  I certainly couldn’t keep up with [managing my 9 blogs](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) if I didn’t have my freelancers helping me with content creation.  Freelance marketplaces and online websites for freelancing are changing the way that we are earning money and managing our times (both as a business owner and a full-time freelancer).  There are many freelancer platforms like [Freeeup](https://timeclock.freeeup.com/public/signup?a=f0bb0490-6114-41f3-9a93-baedc7e73772), Upwork, and Fiverr. I use all of them for different needs and have probably more $20k over the years in many services.  On Fiverr, I have spent $3997 on 86 completed tasks, so you know I’m qualified to write this review. ![](/images/posts/inline/858db8b8-image-2.png) Today, I’ll show you the pros and cons of Fiverr. Also, I’m going to review Fiverr from the customer and freelancer perspective, that way you can have a better understanding of this freelance platform.  So without further ado, let’s dive right in. ## What is Fiverr? [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55) is an online marketplace for freelance services that was founded back in 2010 by Micha Kaufman and Shai Wininger.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/KK5j6yUWgRvIGHTh_ahrFVaMuB9ajNVmwLVCqPWmLuv6evR85snL3GsbQS12gQI4nAFfBAOxxGZv-QlKKFH7lJ_gI1eq3KUzg6Uu8VoH-iUUC2Ai5Lux4PTjCaMPeOj8j6ojhwrp) The idea of the platform was giving the opportunity to people to both offer and buy different types of digital services. A two-sided website where people can make money and can hire freelance workers for help with their businesses from a vast pool of high-quality professionals. Some of the services that are offered there are writing, graphic design, video editing, translating, programming, and others. These are some of the most used categories, but in fact, there are more than 200 categories on Fiverr with more than 830.000 freelancers offering their services. ### Freelancer Levels on Fiverr The freelancers are categorized into three different levels according to their skillsets, and with that entrepreneurs can find exactly what they are looking for both in terms of rates and skills. The sellers’ levels are based on the delivery time of the work, customer satisfaction, and the quality of the work. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/KSNJ3g8hHtkZpx2FlKVay57l-UJDkBCEnoJi25oXv7FAd3LDyPCEX4HQCXnydSeUTiB2mXEtdBiB_YpaXOoCiqkpPO-rh_kezcrLR_izZiTNT-X3o72JK0OSw6yvS1hh8_p9zoa5) The Fiverr levels are as follows: - **Level 1 Seller**—can be reached after 60 days of signing up, if the seller worked on a minimum of ten gigs and the clients are highly satisfied with their work. - **Level 2 Seller**—can be reached after 120 days of signing up, if the seller worked on a minimum of fifty gigs and the clients are highly satisfied with their work, along with on-time delivery. - **Top-Rated Seller**—the most top-notch freelancers on the platform. These types of sellers are reliable, have been on Fiverr for more than 180 days, and have successfully worked on more than 100 gigs earning more than $20.000. In addition to this, the buyers were satisfied and got their projects on time. Outside of these levels are the New Sellers who are just starting out and may be inexperienced in the category they are working in. What’s even better for entrepreneurs, they can visit the sellers’ profiles and transparently look at their profiles, samples of work and reviews from previous of their collaborators making the decision easier. The prices start from $5, hence the name Fiverr. A service that is being offered is called a “Gig”. ## How does it work? Freelancers make their profiles where they write the type of services that they offer along with samples of their work. The hirers are merely searching for those freelancers that would best suit their needs whether it’s about blog writing, logo design, hiring a virtual assistant, or something else. The extremely user-friendly interface makes it very simple to find and hire a freelancer, and getting in touch with them is also not complicated. If you are wondering how Fiverr works, then let me explain. - *Signing up* – if you want to be a freelancer or hire freelancers on Fiverr, you have to be a registered member. The [sign up](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=) process is completely free and fairly easy. - *Confirming your account*—after signing up, you will be sent a confirmation e-mail on which you will finish the whole registration process. -  *Buyers*—can go on to browsing the homepage and look into all the categories. They can also use the search option to find a gig that they would be interested in. Here, it’s important for buyers to carefully look through the profile of the seller and check the reviews and work samples. - *Checkout*—once a buyer has made up his mind about which gig they want to purchase, they need to pay for it. The processing fee is $2 on purchases up to and including $40, and 5% on those above that price. - *Sellers*—from the side of the sellers, the story is simple as well. Once a buyer purchases their gig, sellers get to keep 80% of each one of them and get to work. As an example, if a gig is sold for $10, the seller gets paid $8 or 80% of that purchase. This amount will be delivered once the work is done, and with time, sellers can build their ratings and increase their rates. ## Best features and benefits I am aware that Fiverr has its faults and it has its shortcomings. Freelancers are mostly the group of people that are less satisfied because the review system imposed by Fiverr can sometimes be harsh for some people’ standards. However, it is also a place where you can find lots of opportunities and fruitful collaborations no matter if you are a seller or a buyer on the platform. That being said, I will try to capture the best features and benefits for everybody included in the Fiverr platform. #### **Potential for long term collaborations** I am aware that the philosophy behind the Fiverr is simple: to receive a quotation from the buyer, deliver the agreed service in the agreed time, get paid, and finish the collaboration. And then, moving on to the next one. This is how most people perceive the Fiverr marketplace. But from personal experience, I have found this to not be always necessarily true. Sometimes, when certain clients see that you are reliable and do a great job, they are open to building a long-term relationship with you.  This way, both sides win. The seller works for a client that is sure will pay, and the buyer is working with a freelancer that already proved his or her worth in terms of high-quality services. This is one of the most often overlooked benefits of Fiverr in my opinion. Building networks of trusted collaborations can be very rewarding for both sides. #### **Many categories** to suit your needs ![](/images/posts/inline/f92942e9-image-3.png) There are 12 main categories that are further divided into sub-categories where products and services are offered on the platform. Everything from things like writing and translation, music and audio, virtual assisting, graphics and design, to online marketing, SEO, video and animation, advertising, etc, is available on Fiverr. This is good for buyers because they can dig into all these categories and sub-categories and find exactly what they are looking for. On the other side, it is also good for the sellers because they can specialize in one sub-category and become very good, or choose more of them. The starting price is $5 as I previously mentioned, but some enhanced services or high-quality work can be priced much higher than that. #### **Fast services** If you are in need of a service and you need it as soon as possible, Fiverr has thought of you too. When you are buying a gig, it is possible to check the “Extra fast delivery” option which allows you to order the service within 24 hours of the purchase. This way, you can get things done a lot faster, but you would have to pay higher prices sometimes. #### **Ideal environment for freelancers** A lot of the people that are in the freelance business have been joining the Fiverr family due to the low charging fees and the great environment. There is no need for any technical background, and even if you are just starting with freelancing your skills will be valued at Fiverr. Now, those freelancers that are transparent, hard-working, and creative can earn a lot of money through the platform. And compared to other freelancing platforms, here you let the buyers search for you, not the other way around. This means more exposure, and you can be sure that buyers will reach out to you. You can download the Fiverr app that is available both in Android and iOS, and you can be accessible everywhere you go or submit work. The apps are easy to use and have a user-friendly interface. I recently started listing some services there and it took 10 min to get [my PR gig](https://www.fiverr.com/alebaus/get-featured-on-future-sharks-so-influential-and-more) up ![](/images/posts/inline/c6997c5e-image-4.png) In a few clicks I was able to increase the exposure of my sites: [Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com/), [So Influential](https://soinfluential.com/) and [Authority Daily](http://authoritydaily.com/). #### **Transparency in the workplace** From the side of the buyers, this is quite an important advantage. If you are looking to hire a freelancer from Fiverr, you will have all the data you need to make an informed decision. You can visit the profile of the seller and you can see their ratings, the feedback from the previous sellers that used their services, how many gigs have they finished, how many bad experiences were there, etc. This way, you can know exactly what kind of freelancer you might collaborate with, and your decision can be reached quite easily. ## Fiverr Security and Support If you want to hire a freelancer from Fiverr, your personal information will be protected from everybody that you may hire. The sellers will know basic information that makes it clear to them who they will be potentially collaborating with. The same applies to the sellers’ personal information. All the parties have their info protected! This also applies to the financial payments that take place on the platform. Whatever method you choose to pay through, Fiverr takes care of keeping your financial data extremely safe. This way, you’ll be sure that nobody will compromise your personal info. You can choose to do payments via credit cards, electronic payments like Paypal, or other. Also, when it comes to communicating with potential collaborators, you can be sure that your communication will remain private only among you and the other party. When it comes to accidents where freelancers can’t deliver the work that they promised they would for whatever reason, you have options to get your money back. If a seller doesn’t respond for 24 hours, you can cancel the order and you will get a refund on your money. In case you get the work, but it is not as agreed or low-quality, you can contact the Resolution Center where you will be assisted. You can also try working things out through the Customer Support Center. ## Fiverr Prices Fiverrs’ pricing starts from $5, as we previously mentioned. However, registering and constructing a profile is completely free. What is also free is posting requests to hire different sellers. The expenses come when you decide to purchase a gig. And this pricing is very reasonable; you can find different prices for different levels of freelancers’ expertise. You will notice the price of every gig and it will be in your preferred currency to make it even easier on you. For instance, searching for a writer for a blog post can be anywhere from $10 to $200. ![](/images/posts/inline/c659b5c8-image.png) Once you went through the categories and found a gig that you’re interested in purchasing, you pay the money upfront for the order. That money is held in escrow and won’t be released until the freelancer delivered the work. If there is a problem of any type with the work, the Customer Service is quite decent and they will help solve any conflict that may happen. The only slightly negative thing, is the short period of time that you have to act once the freelancer delivers the work. You will have three days for digital services or fourteen days for shipped products to be able to decline the service. After that, the money is released into the sellers’ account automatically. ### Extreme Creativity Fiverr is a place filled with extremely creative individuals that have a fresh and innovative perspective on things. You can literally find services and products that will blow your mind. Sometimes, giving creative freedom to freelancers can leave you speechless when you see the results. This can be extremely helpful when it comes to people that have good ideas, but not exact ones. With help from individuals that have colorful minds, you can get the [best products and services](https://www.moneyunder30.com/cheap-and-unique-things-you-can-get-on-fiverr) out there. Among other things, you can: - Hire a professional dating profile writer to fix your Tinder account - Hire someone to make a custom puzzle for you - Hire counselors for relationship or job-related advice - Hire someone to research your family tree - Hire someone to design a unique t-shirt for you -  Hire a Fantasy Football expert - Hire a person to draw a portrait of you - Hire a person to tutor you on anything - Hire a person to write an [SEO article](https://flux.la/how-to-write-seo-articles/)  These are just some of the cool, refreshing things that you can find on Fiverr. It’s the perfect place for people to [sell any product](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) or service. It surely is a fun and creative marketplace where you can get professional help, gifts for your loved ones, advice, designs, and whatnot. Fiverr is also a place from which you can buy physical products. There are many things, but some of them include handcrafted products, gift cards, prototypes of products, paintings, and much more. ## Revenue Numbers Fiverr announced the third-quarter results from 2019, and they showed strong growth in revenue of 42%. The growth of active buyers is increasing for the third consecutive quarter, and the spending per buyer is also increasing. According to the CEO of Fiverr, Micha Kaufman, they are quite content to see yet another quarter infused with amazing performance, rapid growth, and increased profitability.  “*Recent strategic initiatives that highlight our multiple growth levers continue to focus on enhancing our value proposition to both buyers and sellers globally while simultaneously growing our addressable market,*” she stated. If we dive into the numbers themselves, - The revenue in the third quarter of 2019 was $27.9 million with an increase of 42% from the same quarter in the previous year - The active buyers increased from 2 million to 2.3 million with a 16% increase year over year - The spend-per-buyer increased from $141 to $163 with an increase of 15% year over year ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MZtuOpuPh5p6e983U46t2wbJzHvujjl3h7s0Ui-OlUHoGMMZhttGBQmNSdOtjeI6yMDJtLunsFgA9cMVYuDoJ1SqNc6mVMC0hpWUUkWyMKgPsrhRA99jC41cVLr_9Vg6hd0Q3U8V) [](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191113005265/en/Fiverr-Announces-Quarter-2019-Results) ## Fiverr Pro (my favorite) ![](/images/posts/inline/7de165cb-image-1.png) In the early days of the platform, Fiverr released the Fiverr Pro program which is a premium channel where the best of the best professionals can be found. Fiverr Pro is available on the same platform, but the freelancers that are in this program have a “PRO” badge that can be seen on their profile. With that badge, they are distinguished as the best freelancers on the platform. Via this program, freelancers are sure that their services are paid for properly, while the buyers get reassurance that the service that they need will be done with the highest level of professionalism. According to Fiverr, only 1% of all applicants actually earn their Pro badge after going through a detailed application process and vetting. The reason why this is relevant is simple- credibility. Once the freelancers have the Fiverr Pro badge, the platform basically guarantees that the buyers will be getting the highest quality of services. I really like Fiverr Pro because of the vetting. The biggest advantages while using Fiverr Pro are: - Getting top quality services from professionals that are reliable and reputable - Win-win for both sides; high-quality service for the buyer, fair price for the seller -  Fiverr Pro customer service is top-notch, always resolving the issues between collaborators - Only select candidates can get the badge, that’s how you know the best of the best If there is a disadvantage, it would be the higher price compared to the prices on the simple Fiverr platform. Sometimes you can get lucky and find a very high-quality service on Fiverr for a cheaper price, but if you want to be sure that you get a great outcome with as few revisions as possible, Fiverr Pro is the better choice.  The freelancers that try to become Pro go through a long process of vetting and proving their professionalism. The platform personally checks all the applications. The candidates go through technical vetting, and two rounds of professional vetting. Two category managers from different categories will vet the freelancer to make sure that they are reliable and honest about their level of know-how. Candidates may be asked for portfolio, references, education, degrees, years of experience, certificates, etc. Once a candidate is in, they are encouraged to put the 3-tier pricing package, but with prices that they see fit. Also, there is an option for buyers to buy in bulk. For example, you can offer a price for one article, two, three, four, or five. A buyer can choose to pay for five articles at once. Another great thing is that sellers can create Custom Offers for gigs that are beyond the offered prices. A person can go up to $10.000 in Custom Offers for bigger projects. ## 7 Alternatives to Fiverr While Fiverr is great for quick/cheap tasks, sometimes you might be looking for something more long term or higher quality. Other outsourcing sites you can try are: 1. [Freeeup](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/freeeup/) 2. [Upwork](http://Upwork.com) 3. [Freelancer](https://www.freelancer.com/) 4. [PeoplePerHour](https://www.peopleperhour.com/) 5. [TaskRabbit](https://www.taskrabbit.com/) 6. [Airtasker](https://www.airtasker.com/uk/) 7. Hire local people, college students or interns. ## Bottom line You should absolutely give [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55) a try, it’s a great value for the price. Worst comes to worse, you try a few services and are set back ~$20. I use Fiverr for many of the tasks I that one can outsource when running a blog such as writing, logo design, infographics and more. This helps me [be more productive](https://futuresharks.com/how-to-be-productive/). If you found this review helpful and decided to [sign up](https://www.fiverr.com/?referral_campaign=RPCampaign1&referral_invitee=social&referral_inviter=27570260&referral_key=f88c3800e66ab7186985bbfbb59d5ddce2ac92cc&show_join=true&utm_campaign=referral_program_show&utm_content=&utm_medium=shared&utm_source=get_url&utm_term=), you can use the newly hired Fiverr freelancers to outsource the following tasks: - [How to set up your ecommerce business from scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) - [How to increase your Alexa rank](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/)   - [How to get more views on YouTube, SEO tricks](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) Leave a comment below letting me know which page you want me to review next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How does Pinterest make money? 2026 [Revenue and History] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-pinterest-make-money/ Published: 2022-03-02 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business TL;DR: Pinterest reported a growth of 62% or $261 million in year-over-year revenue in the second quarter of 2019 already. They also reported nearly $60 million more than the first quarter of the previous year. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Do you want to change your haircut? Get some awesome DIY tips? Read Inspiring Quotes? Learn Vegan recipes?  Whatever you’re looking for, [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/) is the place to find it and get innovative ideas. Pinterest is one of the most used sites on the internet today. It is a place where many people draw inspiration from, and with a good reason.  And what’s more, you don’t need to download images and group them in folders or remember where you put them because the site lets you create boards with images that you can see whenever you log in.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/P7h55vNUlIyWIver8oNrY6U72jYp-JpwmoN-miasrowv_39QcukQgh_xZAzRO7p4G6xTUYNWMePH7GF-d7-6DM0twocVADdRQt4mFPH9RIqclhFL_xGGL4UKJJTQ7zb7msvDJOYY) But I’m sure you already know that since Pinterest has been around for a while.  *Related: here’s a* [*script to grow your Pinterest account*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-mass-follow-on-pinterest-scripts/) ## History of Pinterest In 2009, Ben Silbermann founded Pinterest along with Evan Sharp, and a year later the site went live as an invite-only place for sharing images. It was available for everybody in 2011 and in the first nine months of officially being launched it had more than 10.000 users. At that time, Pinterest was put on the list of “50 best websites” by Time Magazine. After the strong start, by 2012, Pinterest had more than 11 million users worldwide which made the site one of the fastest-growing sites in general!  This growth exceeded all expectations, and businesses took notice of that. They were encouraged to dip their toes in the new up and coming social media network. One of the most popular things about Pinterest from the start was their grid-like design which offered something new to the internet users in terms of the innovative design and unique concept, and that’s still the case today. And of course, behind all this, there is advertising as the main source of Pinterest’s revenue. The marketing potential is vast when it comes to this social media network. ## How Pinterest works Pinterest is a platform where users can save their favorite links and images, and “pin” them to their account. Usually, pins are grouped in themes known as a “board” to create different virtual albums.  You can follow your favorite accounts and boards to get content related to what you like.  You can also search for topics and inspo, like vacation: ![](/images/posts/inline/cfd1233a-image-2-1024x456.png) ## Pinterest’s Stats and Demographics Before I dive into how the site is making money, let’s look into how much money we are talking about, and some other stats related to this social media network. Pinterest reported a growth of 62% or $261 million in year-over-year revenue in the second quarter of 2019 already.  They also reported nearly $60 million more than the first quarter of the previous year. The majority of their earnings or $238 million out of those $261 million came from the U.S. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/5U6Z5SKIzVjWpxVGeamfmCr5EUfquoqlx6PZ1oszNnYGgSypH-2A3YpUDkQ-BtF_DHaV_nd2LyfLSS4Mz8mAwNRk5u2mmtwMUBHmpuc1W-MY4e61n9q_DCijKQtUe1g651Eoo3eJ) [](https://investor.pinterestinc.com/press-releases/press-releases-details/2019/Pinterest-Announces-Second-Quarter-2019-Results/default.aspx) However, it was not all good and positive since Pinterest reported a net loss of $1.16 billion for the quarter which according to them was influenced by the restricted stock unit expense concerning their initial public offering (IPO). Moving forward to the third quarter of 2019, Pinterest still had a very significant increase compared to last year’s. The reported growth in revenue was 47%. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/FurAfSuGa3tCoCqFL4YXKmwBtGNONj-ol3MtJIwVwMVGJ8wZBE3CLBYH-xyNH0S0G3ah1oFOx5FnDDmA6wkng2f5WHZBrAZpyYf0H2BsW5p7DGxou_ahAKGTRIsCVPDg2D4SPjN6) [](https://s23.q4cdn.com/958601754/files/doc_financials/2019/q3/Pinterest-Q3-19-EPR-\(Final\)-\(2\).pdf) Some of the other most relevant statistics to the way Pinterest earns and how it functions are: - The total number of monthly active users is *above 300 million* - There are over *200 billion* Pinterest Pins! - The total number of Pinterest boards is *more than 4 billion*  - 2 million people save shopping pins on a daily basis These stats are from the third quarter of 2019 and speak a lot about how many people actually come in contact with Pinterest on a daily, monthly, or yearly basis. This is, of course, relevant to the interested businesses in advertising through this platform. When it comes to demographics, Pinterest has some interesting statistics as well: -  Around 70% of all the users are female - Men account for 40% of the new sign-ups - More than half of the users are from outside of the US. - Millennials use Pinterest as much as Instagram - The majority of active users are below the age of 40, even though that is the median age on the platform - 144.5 million of people can be reached with ads according to Pinterest - 50% of the users earn $50K or more on a yearly basis, 10% earn $125K or more These statistics are extremely relevant and can attest to why Pinterest is as successful as it is. [As opposed to Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/), the users of Pinterest are predominantly adults that earn money and can react to the ads quite more. ## Pinterest User Growth As I previously mentioned, in the beginning, Pinterest was an invite-only network. Despite that fact, the user base was growing tremendously, which is why in 2012 Pinterest dropped the invite-only registration process and let the platform grow even further.  The launching of the Android Pinterest app furthermore increased the growth of the number of people that were using the platform. From there, the user numbers went to staggering 49 million in February 2013, and by June this number was 70 million! By 2016, this number reached 150 million, and in 2018 291 million active users were on Pinterest.  By the third quarter of 2019, this number was 300 million. This continuous growth has been noticed a while back by businesses and by Pinterest, which opened the doors for including advertising in their business model. ## How does Pinterest make its revenue? The first attempt to utilize these massive user base opportunities came in 2013 when Pinterest decided to offer business accounts to companies who want to market their products on the platform. With that, came the first revenue avenue of Pinterest.  The way it operated and it still does, is through “promoted pins”. Now, we are all aware that Pinterest doesn’t have a very big audience compared to the other social media platforms. However, what it does have is a *very high conversion rate* which is in many ways better than reaching more people with lower conversion rate.  Pinterest says that *“83% of weekly US Pinners from a brand pin”*. The reason behind the high conversion rate is that people are more influenced somehow to make purchases based on Pinterest compared to other platforms. Another great option for retailers is the storefront option which allows people to buy directly from the retailers. So it’s very easy for users whatever they are interested in on Pinterest without even visiting another site. If you want to sign up for Pinterest Business, you can do so [here](https://business.pinterest.com/en). ### Promoted Pins ? > Here are examples of Pinterest's "Shoppable Pins", "Shop the Look" pins, and an actual ad on Pinterest. [pic.twitter.com/YVt8GqLYZN](https://t.co/YVt8GqLYZN) > > — Amrita Khalid (@askhalid) [October 18, 2019](https://twitter.com/askhalid/status/1185278590247530496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) Promoted pins show up in the user’s home feed, or they appear when they are searching for something specific. They are paid by businesses and have no differences with the normal pins which is why user engagement is great.  This sole fact is why businesses choose to advertise there because it appears as a more organic way of advertising to the users, and they [build trust in their brand.](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/) If you decided to invest in Promoted pins, the way you need to go about it is selecting the Pins that you want to advertise on the platform along with a target audience and a selected budget. After that, your Pin will be promoted via an auction system that is also used in [Google’s advertising](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/).  The system is called Pay-per-click (PPC) and it works on the principle of businesses bidding which Pins will be shown first. You have to choose the maximum amount that you are willing to invest in order to win the bidding war. For this, you need to know who your target audience is exactly and choose the right timing to show the ads to them in order to achieve maximum engagement.  These ads will be displayed either in the home feed of the users or in the search results when they type for keywords relevant to the ad. More than 90% of the users of the platform actually use it as a “shopping list” or a place where they put all their planned purchases for the future. This is the reason why ads on Pinterest have a very high return on investment.  The [4 types of Promoted Pins](https://business.pinterest.com/basics/) are: 1. Simple promoted pins- you pay to promote them 2. Video promoted pins- they include a video 3. One-click promoted pins- they take you straight to the link connected to the pin 4. App promoted pins- have an app icon included along with an install button so you can directly install the app ### $PINS Stock In the early days of the platform, Pinterest decided to dive into the stock market and one of the most hyped initial public offerings happened. Even though the IPO was hyped, the predictions were mixed since the social media market is quite crowded with all the stocks from Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, etc. [PINS Chart](https://www.tradingview.com/symbols/NYSE-PINS/) by TradingView new TradingView.widget( { “autosize”: true, “symbol”: “NYSE:PINS”, “interval”: “D”, “timezone”: “Etc/UTC”, “theme”: “Light”, “style”: “2”, “locale”: “en”, “toolbar\_bg”: “#f1f3f6”, “enable\_publishing”: false, “hide\_top\_toolbar”: true, “save\_image”: false, “no\_referral\_id”: true, “container\_id”: “tradingview\_b132e” } ); When it finally happened, there were some problems. However, this industry is known for slow starts as the case with Snap IPO that started off quite bad, but in later times it is one of the high performing stocks.  After going up for a few sessions after the debut, the stock of Pinterest took a big dive and disappointed in the third quarter of 2019. The shares plunged 21%, a day after Pinterest reported disappointing results in the third quarter.  Even with all these results, and the fact that a company doesn’t directly earn from good stock prices, there is still hope for Pinterest securing their place at the table of social media networks. The fact that Pinterest’s user base is still growing, is a good sign for everybody involved with it. For the future, the expectations for Pinterest are high and bright. The total revenue in 2019 was 1.03 billion dollars from ads, and this number is expected to grow in 2020 by 363 million dollars. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/r-_WAvLuqdzheuhGbTYBBlV2hoPFKVxuZ0nJYXhkIkujzEFbRNauaZgKiUgyei-GEhYGDHYFkalWLbLKQ5yyV1PVW3qtlgjc4E-IUW-wEkGg8XjY0B_Mj1BjqparQjouW6rCi7oz) ## How does Pinterest user base compare to other social media platforms? While 300M users on Pinterest is certainly impressive, it doesn’t even put Pinterest at the top 10 social media platforms in terms of users.  Facebook dominates with nearly 2.5B users.  ](https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/) ## Bottom line Pinterest is no longer a moms-only social network; 300M people find and collect useful links and images around the world.  Pinterest makes money through its advertising network which includes Promoted Pins.  Its revenues are not as massive as Facebook or [Instagram’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) but comparable to Snapchat’s.  If you found this article helpful and want to know how other companies earn their revenues check out the following pieces:  - [How does Facebook make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [How does Snapchat make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) - [How does Google make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) - Find even more companies on [this list](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/).  **Let me know in the comments below which tech giant would you like me to dig apart next!** --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Fix LCP Issue On Search Console? A 2026 Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-lcp-issue-on-search-console/ Published: 2022-03-02 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: SEO TL;DR: One of them is LCP which is the KEY to ensure your page doesn’t load for more than 4 seconds. Before I talk about how to fix the LCP issue on search console, you should know why a good LCP score is important. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Having a website page doesn’t just mean making content and posting it. Nowadays, when countless such web pages attempt to offer the same thing, it is essential to transcend the rest.  Today, just having elegantly composed articles doesn’t do that. A page needs to have a good rank on Google if it wants to attract more traffic  Ranking better on Google search results means changing a couple of things on Core Web Vitals which is Google’s new road for following webpage measurements. Center Web Vitals presents recent estimations for website page speed. One of them is LCP which is the KEY to ensure your page doesn’t load for more than 4 seconds.  Before I talk about how to fix the LCP issue on search console, you should know why a good LCP score is important. Lets get started with the basics. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQhj4\_LSVmo ## **What Is LCP Issue?**  Largest Contentful Paint (LCP) is Google’s client-driven metric for a page’s apparent load speed found in the Core Web Vitals. In particular, it shows how long it requires to load the most extensive video, text, or picture.  Components that show up in the wake of clicking or scrolling down are barred from the LCP. It estimates how long it requires your crowd to see the content you need them to see and recall first.  This measurement rolled out by google finally stopped site owners from freaking out(for now). They set a loading pace to guarantee a consistent client experience. Preferably, LCP had to load in ONLY 2.5 seconds tops. Exceed that and you might want to start worrying less about [SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) and more about how your page’s client experience. You don’t want them bouncing away after all. Relevant: Also read how to fix CLS issues in search console [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-cls-issues-in-search-console/) ## **What Are Core Web Vitals?**  You could use many devices to perceive how your site page is getting along with Google’s search rankings. Nonetheless, if you need tips from the actual producer, it is ideal to utilize their suggested tool.  While Google doesn’t part with the entirety of its insider facts, it has revealed some insight into how it does its ranks. For 2021, Google released an instrument that measures a website page’s general client experience: Core Web Vitals.  Specifically, [Core Web Vitals](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) considers three angles for user interaction and page speed estimations. These are visual stability, responsiveness, and loading performance.  These are estimated by the Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS), First Input Delay (FID), and LCP, respectively.  While the LCP evaluates how rapidly enormous components load, the FID checks how quickly the page responds to the client’s first connection, similar to a click, for example. For a decent client experience, the FID ought to be under 100 milliseconds.  In the meantime, the CLS checks if the components on a website move all over the screen during loading. For this, a CLS of under 0.1 ought to be kept up for an ideal client experience.  These three are determined to guarantee a unique client experience, which assists site pages with having a better rank on Google and, in this way, acquire crowds.  ## **Why Is a Good LCP Score Important?**  For specific sites, the highlighted story is intended to grab the crowd’s eye and get them to remain on the page. The page loading slowly may get them a terrible reputation.  For moment criticism, this may make the crowd leave the site rashly, believing that it’s not functioning as it ought to.  In the meantime, different web pages depend on a catchy pennant picture for better retention of visual memory. Slack in the LCP removes the motivation behind their content, photo, or video as the crowd is persuaded to start perusing and look past it altogether.  This way, it is imperative to enhance the LCP just as different measurements are included for the Core Web Vitals to keep a good client experience. A decent client experience is equal to a steady readership.  Beginning 2022, it should mean better Google search rankings.  ## **What Determines Your Page’s LCP Score?**  To know which component is influencing your LCP score, open another tab on Chrome and type in the URL of the site you’d prefer to check. For example, we will check [Nelson’s Automotive Repair](https://www.nelsonsrepair.com/) site.  ![To know which component is influencing your LCP score, open another tab on Chrome and type in the URL of the site you'd prefer to check](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dmRRCfl-cBT1SM927TUiTUY8sDbCEWqnpHEDv0SSVtwWXw2XRPvpi8Fv200oLtqubqI7sUqJQ3b8iDkSpm87g_Qk3kunMxORXTUhY6SX1k1OOLOVbKANmQXk1aeSVNNnguAPE9us) Right-click on free space on the point of arrival, and from the drop-down menu, click “Inspect.” Your screen should resemble the picture underneath after doing this.  ![Whenever it's done, you should find in the "Timings" area a little LCP symbol](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/6dIYp2343AxNmYNByIEqlOMg-dw_WRjja1T74Vlx7e6hPJGRFQ_L50384g4nW0FeRzamNy9PQP9CzbG2ULbZm5_09O0DWraB0kmS25N3O8gOW6xLPY0xf7ObB8Z4y8FUuIGTKD9n) At that point, go to “Performance,” which is on the upper right of your screen. On the off chance that you don’t see this prompt, click on the arrows on the farther, upper right bit to uncover more alternatives.  Click “Reload” on your screen’s right side, and Chrome will require a couple of moments to provide a report.  Whenever it’s done, you should find in the “Timings” area a little LCP symbol. If you click it, it will feature what portion of your site page is the most significant component considered in LCP scoring and how to fix the issue.  ## **Effective Methods to Fix LCP Issues**  Alright, so suppose you’ve seen an LCP issue utilizing the strategy above. We should go into the potential answers for it!  ### **1\. Distinguishing Problematic URLs**  To know for sure what parts of your site need improvement, you need to distinguish dangerous URLs.  For this, you need to sign in to your site on [Google Search Console](https://accounts.google.com/ServiceLogin/webreauth?service=sitemaps&passive=1209600&continue=https%3A%2F%2Fsearch.google.com%2Fsearch-console%2Fwelcome&followup=https%3A%2F%2Fsearch.google.com%2Fsearch-console%2Fwelcome&flowName=GlifWebSignIn&flowEntry=ServiceLogin). When you’re in, click the link named “Center Web Vitals” on the Enhancement tab. At that point, click “Open Report.”  The report will provide the number of URLs on your site that have an LCP issue. From that point forward, click on “LCP Issue: Longer Than 4s (Desktop) or (Mobile)”. This will show you an illustration of a particular page from your site with an LCP issue.  ### **2\. Instructions to Check Your LCP Score**  After realizing what parts of your site have the LCP issue, you need to check their specific LCP score. For this, open chrome and go to [Google PageSpeed Insights](https://developers.google.com/speed/pagespeed/insights/). Type in your page URL on the search bar and click Enter or “Analyze.”  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UvL3w59qCNFLbhhr1gU05yfcyrZ_U5P-lx84L75yc0LMhlxMzSKFuSQvigmlO2PKmiIr-9oML4pZkDK4mo1A0SyZhXFZVpsbguKlPT_NIfqKd0UUuDiBsxq1R7feBHCrrbioHTaQ) You can only select to do this for your landing page. Nonetheless, if you need to upgrade the client experience for every particular piece of your page, you can likewise break them down individually. This can assist you with improving your rank under [Google search results](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google-in-2020/).  The outcomes should show you your page load speed measurements, including your LCP score. Red implies the page has a low score, orange implies it needs improvement, and green means it’s doing acceptable.  By default, PageSpeed Insights will let you see the mobile metric results, yet there is likewise a desktop choice on your screen’ upper left. Nonetheless, tending to the issue simply on the mobile tab can fix both without a moment’s delay.  ### **3\. Improving Your LCP Score**  Here is where Google gives its clients tips for quicker page load speed and, in this manner, conceivably [better Google search rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/boost-seo-ranking-with-seo-checklist/).  Essentially scroll down a little beneath “Lab Data” on the PageSpeed Insights page. You should see a part marked “Opportunities.” Here, you’ll discover ideas on the best way to improve your general page speed.  ![How to fix LCP issues in search console](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lyWXidEgrdIoTqE4_6seV1pCfEirvWFF4D1d-bkan8KIzV_ADb5_M_7_T0FkD7IJsxSrX95_7Dx4Z6r1N6A_6mfGcWkINRGUdgx7ytj8mSUPztYJC2Xz_ljyFnU7yXjnKAp2uKuq) As you can find in the photograph above, one idea is to “Serve images in next-gen formats.” If you do this, it will improve the page speed by an expected 4.95 seconds. Note, in any case, that this doesn’t liken to a superior PageSpeed Insights score.  In particular, this guidance intends to reupload the picture in a configuration other than the standard format JPG or PNG. Fresher picture formats, for example, JPEG XR and JPEG 2000. These improve compression, which means quicker downloads and less consumption of data for your [website users](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/).  In case you’re not much of a master on these wordings, Google has made it very easy to use. To all the more likely see how to fix the issue, you can tap on the drop-down arrow (as demonstrated in the picture above) for more data.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8Ygh-IvNYIwTYwMsz0WCIFDkNGHZZU9mq1C43tHqPuC24Pa1yomibZHrzYtNQEaPVgmdwgbN9wac4BynBuEMhlL37b3UKCkyjs25LRnfhvR92spPuPjjwBes-2xpAIhRXkKkBtGL) It essentially gives you further knowledge of what to do to improve your page load speeds. The ideas will, in general, function admirably, coincidentally.  ### **4\. Converting Photos**  Plugins accessible to expressive writing for blog sites roll out significant improvements to your site page. For example, WordPress clients can utilize the WebP Converter for Media module to change PNG, JPEG, or photographs of some other formats into WebP.  To do this, WordPress clients need to have this plugin installed. After installing, go to “Plugin” on your dashboard and click the word “Activate.”  This will immediately change the entirety of your WordPress pictures into a WebP format.  Specific plugins are likewise accessible to address different worries from PageSpeed Insights’ Opportunities segment.  In any case, try to save a backup of your web page first before rolling out any improvements on the off chance that the plugins make drastic changes to your page’s design.  ### **5\. Validate Fix**  In the wake of rolling out your improvements, return to PageSpeed Insights and analyze your URL again. See if there are changes in your page load speed measurements.  Since the LCP score takes a while to change, you should keep adjusting your page appropriately.  Whenever you’ve passed the LCP score, go to your Google Search Console account and select “Validate Fix.” This lets Google know that you’ve applied changes to your site to speed it up.  ## **The Bottom Line** That practically depicts How to fix LCP Issue on your webpage. Nonetheless, we should leave you with one last note about this.  This is something that you can’t hope to rush or create immediate results. This whole cycle of tweaking your webpage up to Google’s approval itself takes some time.  Don’t get discouraged on the off chance that it appears as though it’s taking until the end of time.  In any case, remember that most methods for long-lasting improvement are something very similar. It pays off over the long haul, so it’s certainly worth doing.  By taking the effort and time to fix your LCP issue, your site very well could get the push it needs to hit the primary page of the SERPs… or even draw nearer to the highest position. If you enjoyed reading this article, make sure to leave a comment below. Know more about SEO and others in the articles below: - [How To Improve Your Ranking With An SEO Checklist](https://alejandrorioja.com/boost-seo-ranking-with-seo-checklist/) - [What Is Keyword Clustering And How To Do It: A Complete Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-keyword-clustering/) - [How to Do a Reverse Image Search on Google, Facebook, and Pinterest](https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-image-search-on-google-facebook-pinterest/) Letting your friends know will also help them fix LCP issues if they run a business website. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Revenue Vs. Profit: A Comparative Guide For 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/revenue-vs-profit/ Published: 2022-03-02 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Ah yes, revenue and profit. When I was starting out, I also frequently swapped the words.  I thought they meant similar, the same numbers you look at when deciding if your business is doing well. You could interchange them in your statement, and the thought would basically mean the same.  After learning a little bit about the [business and accounting side of things](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/), I learned that the two terms have quite a lot of differences. You can’t use them interchangeably as I initially thought.  When examining your business’ finances, it is crucial to understand the meaning and differences between ‘revenue’ and profit.’ Differentiating between the two allows you to structure better plans to improve the figure that needs improving.  While laymen use these terms almost interchangeably, they are two related concepts but have different meanings. Using these terms for the wrong goals and purposes may lead to inconsistencies, or even mistakes, in the budgeting and accounting function.  I looked back at my business pitches in the past and my use of these two terms. I guess I used them wrong back then.  Well, you live and learn. Now I don’t make the same mistake. And neither should you, once you know the difference between them.  Read on and know more about revenue, profit, and the differences between the two.  ## What Is revenue?  Revenue is the amount received by a firm from business activities. Revenue is generally computed by multiplying the number of units sold by the unit price, either for credit or cash. In the case of service firms, revenue is the amount received for the services, also either for credit or cash.  If you are a merchandising firm or a service entity, then retail sales of your products or the payment of your services, respectively, are the revenues.  For a more straightforward definition, revenues are simply all the money generated before deducting any expenses. Revenue is also referred to as the “top line” because the figure is the first line item in an income statement.  ### Sales revenue  The term “sales revenue” is often used interchangeably with “revenue.” The figure shows the total amount the business generates from the sale of goods or merchandise.  Even if the two are interchangeable, though, not all revenue is derived from the sale of goods or services. There are also other sources of revenue like interest and dividends earned, and they may be added to sales revenue as a separate line item to find the total revenue.  This number can be broken down further to know two things. One is the total receipts from the sales of services or goods (gross sales revenue); another is the resulting amount taking into consideration deductions from gross sales revenue relating to discounts and returns (net sales revenue).  These are the two classifications of sales revenues.  1. **Gross sales revenue** pertains to all the product sales and billings from the sale of merchandise or services, either for cash or credit. The gross amount does not take into computation sales discounts or product returns.  2. **Net sales revenue** is the gross amount less discounts, returns, and allowances.   To illustrate the difference between the two, take this single-transaction example.  Your company sells a product for $3,000 and offers a 10% sales discount when the customer pays upfront. Let’s say a customer does just that: the gross sales revenue amount for that transaction is $3,000, and the net sales amount is $2,700 . ![](/images/posts/inline/10647000-pasted-image-0-38.png) That is not to say that gross revenue is not a useful metric. This amount still provides valuable insight, particularly on the capability of your business or goods to sell and the capacity that it will turn a profit.  However, when you purchase an existing business, you don’t focus on the gross revenue amounts. If the company offers a lot of discounts or allowances, then the gross and net revenue amounts could be far off each other. Also Read: [What is Venmo’s revenue stream?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/) ### Accrued and unearned revenue Accounting has special revenue concepts, namely accrued and unearned revenue. Accrued revenue is revenue earned while not yet paid by a customer.  For example, a company sells $1,000 worth of goods on net-15 terms. This means that the buyer does not have to pay until 15 days after the purchase, and the selling company will invoice only upon that time.  The revenue for this transaction is considered as accrued revenue. From an accounting stance, this is considered as a part of the top-line revenue of the income statement.  Unearned revenue is the amount a buyer prepays for services or goods that have not been delivered. If a company requires prepayment for purchase, then they would not record that revenue first in the income statement; they are unearned.  Once the goods or services relating to the prepayment have been delivered, the company transfers the revenue from unearned to earned. This means that they now recognize it in the top-line revenue of the financial position statement.  ## What is profit?  Profit refers to the total revenues less the expenses incurred by the company. Whereas revenue is often referred to as the “top line,” income is often called the “bottom line” because it is found at the bottom of the income statement.   While revenue only considers the amount received from operations, profit considers both the inflows (revenue) and outflows (expenses) of cash and resources  ![](/images/posts/inline/91b78189-net-profit-formula.jpg) ### Types of profit  There are three kinds of profit illustrated in a formal statement of financial performance or income statement.  - **Gross profit** is the amount of sales less cost of goods sold. To illustrate the concept of cost of goods sold, here is an example.  Suppose you, as a retailer company, purchases merchandise worth $10,000, to sell at a 20% markup, or $12,000 ($10,000 x 120%).   If you sell all of those goods, you receive revenue of $12,000. The cost of the purchased merchandise (goods sold) is $10,000, so your gross profit from the transactions is $2,000 ($12,000-$10,000).  Another term for gross profit is gross margin.  - **Operating profit** refers to gross profit less operating expenses. In an income statement, sometimes there is a line item named “income from continuing operations,” which is basically the same as operating profit.  To illustrate, imagine you have a gross profit of $100,000. Expenses relating to advertising, production, and other costs associated with the operations of the business amounted to $50,000.  The total operating profit is $50,000 after deducting those expenses from gross profit.  - **Net profit** is the remaining income after all expenses have been paid. Continuing the operating profit example, suppose other expenses (finance expenses, administrative expenses such as utilities and rent) amounted to $25,000.  The net profit of the company will amount to $25,000.  Operating profit is not often reflected in an income statement, but gross and net profit are always included. That is why gross and net are the two kinds of profits most frequently mentioned.  ### Gain on sale  There is a particular type of earning referred to as a gain. To understand this, let me outline the concept of fixed assets and depreciation.  Fixed assets are those investments by a company in physical properties used in operations and last for more than one year. Examples of these are computer equipment, office furniture, or a new office building.  Over time, the value of fixed assets deteriorate, and the rate depends on the method applied by a company. The most common, though, is the straight-line method, where the amount of the yearly decline in value is constant.  This process is called depreciation and acts as the distribution of the expense (purchase price of the property, plant, or equipment) over the useful life of the asset (as appraised by an independent appraiser).  For example, suppose you buy a 3D printer for use in operations worth $2,000, with a ten-year useful life. The annual depreciation is $200, or $2,000/10 years.  The book value or carrying amount is the purchase price less the total depreciation accumulated over the years. In two years, total depreciation would be $400, and book value would be $1,600 ($2,000 – $400).  In four years, the total depreciation is $800, and the book value would be $1,200. Book value of a fixed asset changes depending on the total accumulated depreciation related to that particular asset.  Now when a company sells a fixed asset at an amount higher than its present book value, a gain occurs. Since selling the business properties is not a typical business routine, gain on sale is not recognized as operating income.  There is also a loss on sale, when the selling price is lower than the book value.   Gains and losses on sale of assets can go below the operating profit section of the income statement. They might be shown on their separate line item, or are lumped together with other items in an all-inclusive category such as “Non-Operating Income” or “Other Income.”  Other types of non-operating income are rent payments from your building tenants (unless your main business is renting out space for tenants), interest income from bank deposits or loans, and dividends received from other companies.  Relevant: [Here’s how DuckDuckGo makes profit](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-duckduckgo-make-money/) ## The difference between the two  Just from the discussion of the two above, it is clear that revenue and profit are not so similar as you once thought. Here are the main differences between the two commonly interchanged terms.  ### Meaning  Revenue is the proceeds from the business activities, either cash or credit, without taking into consideration the expenses incurred. If you sold equipment at $2,000 with a 10% trade discount for a total cash receipt of $1,800, your gross revenue is $2,000, while the net revenue is $1,800.  Revenue is sometimes referred to as ‘sales.’ Income, on the other hand, is what is left of the revenue after deducting all expenses. Continuing the example above, if total costs are $1,000, then going from net revenue of $1,800, the net income is $800.  ### Computation To compute gross revenue, you multiply per unit price with the total quantity of units sold. For net revenue, subtract from the gross revenue the total discounts and returns granted.   To compute gross profit, you will subtract the cost of goods sold from the net revenue. Gross profit less all expenses, selling, administrative, and otherwise, equals the net profit or the bottom line figure and is ultimately the result of business operations.  ### Subset and superset Revenue is a superset of profit. Revenue encompasses profit, for without it, there is no positive bottom line.  On the other hand, profit is a subset of revenue. Positive profit numbers depend on the existence of revenue, and without it, there is no profit.  Take note, however, that this is positive revenue. If you have $0 revenue but $5,000 in expense, then you have a $5,000 negative profit, or loss.  However, a company, of course, focuses on making a profit and not losses, so they are not included in the revenue subset.  ### Dependence  Revenue is still earned without profit. This is even though there can be a loss when the expenses exceed the revenues.   Now the same cannot be said about profit. Without revenue, there is no profit.  The fact is that no matter what, you will always incur expenses in a business. If there is no revenue, then there would be nothing to cushion your costs.  ### Types In terms of kinds of revenue based on the income statement line item classifications, there is gross sales revenue and net sales revenue.   In terms of its types based on source, revenue can be classified into operating and non-operating. Operating revenue means receipts and billings from your primary business activity (selling, manufacturing, retailing, service, etc.).  Examples include: 1. Selling of products for a retail business 2. Sale of homes of a real estate venture  3. Extermination services of an extermination crew  4. Cleaning services of a housekeeping firm  5. Interest revenue by a lending institution  Non-operating revenue refers to those earnings not related to the primary conduct of business. Examples of non-operating revenue are:  1. Receipt of dividends  2. Interest revenue from bank deposits and loans  3. Gain on investments  4. Gain on foreign exchange  5. Gain on sale of assets  Income has two types – gross and net. Both are reflected in the income statement. ### Position on income statement Revenue, being the “top line,” sits on the very top of an income statement. It is the very first line item in the financial statement.  ![](/images/posts/inline/ccdbd2a4-google-10-k-100647438-large.idge_.png) Income is the “bottom line,” and as expected, sits at the bottom of the income statement. The income is the ultimate result of operations and can be considered as one of the most important metrics for business performance and success.  ![](/images/posts/inline/f9d27ea2-pasted-image-0-39.png) ## Importance of revenue and profit  Revenue is vital in running a business. It covers the total expenses, and the leftover after paying for the costs is the income.  Without sufficient levels of revenue, business operations will be hampered.  Now, income is more of a driver for [business growth and survival](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/). You do business not to break even (revenues equals expenses) and earn negative or zero income; you do business to make a profit.  When you always break even only, your company won’t grow. You are not deriving value from the contributions of your shareholders, you are not gaining wealth, and chances are your company won’t survive.  When your business turns profits, then your company has a chance to grow, provided you make the correct decisions. You also won’t turn bankrupt and run the contributions of investors and shareholders to the ground.   Sales revenue is dependent on the quantity sold at a particular price point, so this is a useful metric of the desirability and demand of the product. Profit reveals the value a business derives from its operations.  Continuous improvements to manufacturing methods and cost reductions in the selling and administrative side of the firm drive profit levels up by lowering costs. Aggressive [marketing](https://www.forbes.com/sites/deniselyohn/2019/01/08/marketing-matters-now-more-than-ever/#78dfca4f117a) efforts, or higher pricing, are efforts to bring profits up by also raising revenues.  Proper cost-volume-profit analysis must be done so that you can see just how much you can raise prices or costs to get the most revenues without costing too many expenses.  Profits and revenues are essential metrics for an investor because they are windows to a company’s overall economic health. For management, the amounts are useful for a lot of things, such as fixing the pricing of your services and products, crafting your annual budget, and more.  Both revenue and profit are looked at to know if a business is profitable or not.  ## Business goals for revenue and profit  Now that you know the difference between revenue and profit, and their importance to a business, you must take action to further raise both of these. Here are the things you may want to do to balance the levels of these two.  1. As a rule, increasing revenues should not only focus on getting more sales, but also the price to increase the revenue. When you make [strategies](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ryanrobinson/2020/01/30/sales-strategies-increase-online-revenue/#8dd89c54b1f1) to increase sales, there usually are also increases in costs, such as [advertising or marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/).  If the resulting income levels are not satisfactory for the company, then you must increase prices. The price increase in the product should cover the additional expenses. However, [increasing the price too much](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/) may result in a decline in sales, and therefore, a drop in profit. There is a fine line to tread, so be careful.  2. The higher the revenues, the higher the profits can be. The rate of the increase in income, however, is not always the same as the rate of revenue increase.  3. Enhancing the profit margin is a different job altogether. However, it follows the same principle as having a fine line to walk on. When the overall profits rise faster than the associated expenses, then an increase in profit margins will result. This is achieved by doing steps to raise profit at the lowest possible costs.  It can be hard to balance but will lead to higher profitability for an extended length of time.  ## Key takeaways Now that you have a thorough understanding of everything surrounding revenue and profit, you will not confuse one for the other anymore. Here are the key takeaways to remember.  1. Revenue is the total income by a business from the sale of services and products. Profit is the leftover revenue when all the expenses have been accounted for.  2. Revenues and profits are connected, but just because there is revenue does not mean that profit will surely accrue.  3. Revenues will almost always exist since that is the reason for establishing a business. However, if the expenses are more than the revenues, then there is a loss; profits will not appear in this case.  4. Investors and shareholders are interested and will look at the standalone revenue and profit numbers. However, the part of revenue converted to profit is something that they will examine extensively. 5. Revenue cannot be controlled since many factors affect it both externally and internally. On the other hand, net income can generally be controlled and managed accordingly because costs and expenses are mostly an internal factor. In economic downturns, where sales are not rising or even declining, you will not control the revenue levels. But you can control the expenses, so these are managed first to adjust your overall profit margins.  6. Looking at sales revenue gleans insights on the demand of your products or services, while profits tell you the value a company keeps for themselves at a given price point.  ## Wrapping up! From the discussion above, you can see that while revenue and profits are closely linked, they are ultimately unique concepts that behave differently. To add another layer of complexity, both have synonymous terms which can sound foreign to those without a business background.  The critical point, however, is that you now know the differences between the two. Now you won’t mindlessly interchange them, thinking that you are saying the same thing.  However, knowing what the terms mean is only half the battle. Taking a look at your company’s or business’ financials and taking [proper actions are the next step](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/) in bringing it to greater heights.  Revenues and profits are two essential indicators of overall financial health and longevity for the future. Profit stems from revenue, so if you want to grow your business, then make efforts to raise revenue, or at least lower the expenses.  Both are equally essential for the present and future of the company, and neglecting one may affect the other, and the finances of your company as a whole.  How did you like this article? Let me know if you would like more of these types of content in the future.  Enjoyed that read? Here are some more good ones for you.  - [How Netflix makes money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/)  - [How does Shopify earn](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/)  - [What is Paypal’s money making strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Audible Review 2026 – Is it Worth it? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/audible-review/ Published: 2022-03-01 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents Let me start by saying that I freaking love [Audible](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NB86OYE?tag=baus03-20). (and of course, Amazon Prime, [free trial](https://amzn.to/2EkUxhm)) I got Audible a few months ago and in 2019, I devoured way more books that I had previously read in any other year. (They say leaders are readers..) I love that I can listen to audiobooks while I’m biking/[walking to work](https://alejandrorioja.com/flux-ventures/), at the gym and right before I go to bed. This Audible review is for anyone that is on the fence about Audible (btw, they have a [free trial](https://amzn.to/2W2wTOH) with 2 free downloads). I’ll show you the Pros and Cons of Audible in 2020. Let’s start with a few key criteria on what makes Audible so damn worth it: ## **Top 5 Audible Features** Audible’s features are what sets it apart from other audiobook services. They are designed and constructed to enhance the quality of listening and experience in using their app and services. These top five Audible features help in the ease of use as well as customer satisfaction: 1. **Whispersync for Voice** This ingenious feature lets you switch between reading and listening quite easily. With just a tap, you can sync your Kindle to your Audible so that you can resume listening after reading and vice versa. This way, you will never lose where you are in a book even after switching devices. You can listen to your book on your way home and resume reading before bed All you need to do is [get a Kindle](https://amzn.to/2DfnpZc), buy the Kindle book version and add an audio companion. Now, you can switch between reading and listening anytime and anywhere. 2. **Customizable Listening Speed**Audible lets you choose the pace which is comfortable for you. Select a listening speed between 0.5x to 3.0x. Considering that people read and listen at a different speed, this feature lets users enhance comprehension and relax while listening at their own pace. (My default is 1.5x) 3. **Ad-free Offline Listening**Downloading your audiobooks lets you listen anywhere at any time, even without Wi-Fi or data access. This feature is offered with no added cost to your membership. You get an uninterrupted listening time, no Ads, with no extra charge. 4. **Sleep Timer**Do you love to sleep while someone reads to you? You might love the sleep timer feature. It allows you to set the time or the end of the chapter to pause the narration. This way, you won’t lose or forget where you are in a book when you fell asleep. 5. **Car Mode**The Car mode feature lets you listen to your audiobook while you’re driving, and it is so easy to set up. To use this feature, just tap on the car icon in the Audible app. For vehicles with an in-dash system, you can use either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, whichever is available. Simply connect your phone via Bluetooth, AUX or USB cable, and you’re good to go. Of course, none of this is important if you don’t have tons of books to choose from, which Audible does. ## **Audiobook Selection** [Amazon’s Audible](https://amzn.to/2W2wTOH) holds the largest collection of audiobooks in the world. Their wide selection of content covers almost any subject or genre like classic novels, children’s books, business, history, biographies, and fiction, together with original audio shows just to name a few. No matter what your interest or needs may be, they promise you can find a perfect audiobook to listen to in Audible. You can choose an audiobook you’d like to listen to their curated lists and collections of: - Editor’s Must-Read - Audible Originals - Best Sellers - Best Sellers from Audible - Books Based on Your Previous Book Purchase - New Releases - NY Times Best Sellers - Top Series - or Features Books These collections are built with users in hindsight, by finding out what people want to read or listen to. But if you haven’t found what you are looking for you can browse from their categories that include: - Arts & Entertainment - Bios & Memoirs - Business - Classics - Comedy - Drama & Poetry - Fiction - Health & Fitness - History - Kids - Language Instruction - Live Events - Mysteries & Thrillers - Newspapers & Magazines - Nonfiction - Religion & Spirituality - Romance - Science & Technology - Sci-Fi & Fantasy - Self-Development - Sports - Teens - Travel & Adventure - And others ## **Ease of Use** Audible might have all the bells and whistles, but is it easy to use? Audible has a minimalistic and straightforward design that takes a small amount of time to get used to. Once you have set up your account, accessing your books is fast and simple to do. - **Audible App**The Audible app is fairly easy to use. The interface is designed similar to a music player, making it easy to navigate and access its functions and features. One thing I don’t like is the fact that the smartphone app doesn’t have the ability to purchase books yet. (You need to go the the website) - **Audible Mobile or Desktop Site**Their site lets you browse their lists and collections easily. You can quickly search the audiobook you need using its title or the name of the author. They also have a help center that contains informative guidelines and instructions if you are having troubles with the app, the site, service, and your account. - **Audiobook Description Pages**The audiobooks come with a description page when you click on a book from their site. It gives you the basic information about the book like its title, author, the narrator, length and etc. It also contains a summary which provides a brief preview of the story. - **Ratings and Reviews**The member’s ratings and reviews are also helpful when choosing your book. You get to hear what people have to say about the book, the performance of the narrator and the story, so you know what you are getting. ## **How Much Does Audible Cost? (Pricing and Plans)** Joining Audible lets you purchase and listen to your audiobooks on your devices upon membership. You can use credits to save on audiobooks cost which they give out one credit per month. Credits are good for purchasing any audiobooks in their collection regardless of its cost. Members can also get to pick two Audible Originals per month, too. In addition to the 30% discount on audiobooks, there are also daily deals and exclusive sales that are exclusive to members. - **30-day Free Trial ($0)** With the [free 30-day trial](https://amzn.to/2W2wTOH), you get access to all their audiobooks collection, plus two credits which you can use to purchase an audiobook and 2 Audible Originals. The trial gives you a sufficient amount of time to check out their features, and everything Audible has to offer before deciding to sign-up for a membership. - **Gold Monthly ($14.95/mo)**[For $14.95 per month](https://amzn.to/2MfpUxr), you get one credit and 30% off on additional audiobooks that you purchase. For additional credits, you’ll have to pay $14.95 per credit. Gold membership will let you listen offline, with no Ads, and you get to keep your books forever. You can store a maximum of five credits in your account for as long as you maintain your membership active. They give you two Audible Originals for free, each month. - **Platinum Monthly ($22.95/mo)**[Platinum membership](https://amzn.to/2MfpUxr), on the other hand, gives you the same service as Gold but with twice as many credits per month. For $22.95 per month, you can keep up to 12 credits for as long as you are a member. You can purchase additional credits for a price of $11.48 per credit, cheaper than the Gold Monthly membership. - **Gold Annual ($149.50/yr)**[Gold Annual membership](https://amzn.to/2MfpUxr) costs $149.50 per year (roughly ~ $12.46/mo). It gives you 12 credits annually, plus a 30% discount on additional audiobooks purchases. Store up to 18 credits at a time for as long as you’re an active member. Pay $12.46 per credit in this plan. - **Platinum Annual ($229.50/yr) **Pay as much as $229.50 per year for 24 credits (roughly ~ $19.12/mo). Choosing annual memberships gives you a greater savings of as much as two-month subscription fees. So, if you are an avid audiobook listener, [Platinum Annual](https://amzn.to/2MfpUxr) will be a great choice if you want to save more. - **Hidden Silver plan ($14.95 every 2 months) **If you feel like one credit a month is too much and you don’t listen to that many books, you might find the secret audible silver plan just right. Here are the steps to get on it. - Go to **My Account** - Click on **Change or cancel my membership** - Select **Upgrade/downgrade my membership** - You will be connected with customer support, so now just tell them you want to get on the Silver Plan. [![](/images/posts/inline/7070ea5a-audible-offer-1024x314.png)](https://amzn.to/2W2wTOH) ## **Details on Membership Plans. What are Audible Credits?** Signing up for an Audible Membership gives you access to tons of audiobooks, features, and services that you can enjoy for a fee. Here are a few details you need to know to get a better grasp on Audible Membership plans: - **Audible Credits** The credits awarded to members monthly or annually can be used to exchange for an audiobook where one credit is equivalent to one audiobook no matter how much it costs. They are non-transferable. It expires once you cancel your membership. - **Unused Credits**Depending on the membership plan you have signed up for, there is a limited number of unused credits that can be carried over to the next month or year. Here is a list of the number of credits that can be rolled over per year based on membership plan: - Gold Monthly – 5 credits - Platinum Monthly – 10 credits - Gold Annual – 6 credits - Platinum Annual – 12 credits - **Purchasing Credits**You can purchase additional credits if you want to or when you have used up all of yours. The price varies depending on your membership plan. - **Returning or Exchanging Books**With Audible’s *Great Listen Guarantee*, you can return any audiobook you purchased within 365 days for whatever reason it may be. You get your refunds for the same mode of payment whether it’s credits or money. Credit refunds are received immediately, while other forms may take 7 to 10 business days. This feature is handy if you purchase a book and for some reason end up not liking it. (Here’s how to [return an audiobook on Audible](https://audible.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/4592/~/can-i-return-my-book%3F)) But, keep in mind that Audible has also stated a limit on the number of refunds that you are allowed to request to avoid misuse of the service. - **Putting Membership on Hold**For monthly membership plans, you can put your Audible membership on hold for as long as three months for any reason. Your account will resume after the term expires and cannot be put back on hold for another year. - **Audible for Business **Empower your team by giving them access to great contents that can help them improve their skills and get inspiration from a catalog of business titles. These selections cover from: - Guided Learning - Language Instruction - Critical Business Skills - Wellness - History and Culture - Leadership - Personal Development - Professional Development - Economics and World Affairs - Sales and Marketing - Science and Technology - Communications - **Special Offer: Romance Package **For an additional of $6.95 per month, you can binge-listen to Audible’s thousands of romance audiobooks. You can select lists based on a story theme, character types, steaminess or romance categories. - **What are Audible Originals?** These are titles created, directed, and recorded by Audible meant to be enjoyed primarily in audio form. [![](/images/posts/inline/5984c05e-audible-originals-selection-1024x242.png)](https://amzn.to/2W2wTOH) ## **How to Start Listening** Audible is very easy to install and use. To begin enjoying Audible, all you need is your smartphone (or it can also be your laptop), access to the internet and to follow these three steps: **1\. Sign up for Audible** Here’s the [free trial link](https://amzn.to/2W2wTOH). **2\. Install the App on Your Device (or go to Audible.com)** Here are the [iOS link](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/audiobooks-from-audible/id379693831?mt=8&pf_rd_p=74d4a2a5-fbe7-41e9-bc3e-90be42bcc8c5&pf_rd_r=PXMKZ7VZARE96W2QPD9T&), [Android link](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.audible.application&pf_rd_p=74d4a2a5-fbe7-41e9-bc3e-90be42bcc8c5&pf_rd_r=PXMKZ7VZARE96W2QPD9T&), and [Windows](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/audiobooks-from-audible/9wzdncrfj1cr?activetab=pivot%3aoverviewtab&pf_rd_p=74d4a2a5-fbe7-41e9-bc3e-90be42bcc8c5&pf_rd_r=PXMKZ7VZARE96W2QPD9T&) to download Audible. **3\. Search for your favorite titles and purchase them** To purchase audiobooks, search for the title of the audiobook in the app or using a browser to access the Audible website. Make sure that you have signed in with your Amazon account. After finding your audiobook, you can pay it using your Audible credits or purchase it. (Note: You can only buy books via their desktop site or mobile site, not the AUdible app) **4\. Enjoy your new Audiobook** Now, you can go back to the Audible app and look for your titles under Cloud or All Titles in your Library. Tapping on the audiobook will initiate the download so you can start listening once it’s done downloading. here’s someone else reviewing Audible ## **Audible Supported Devices** You can listen to your Audible audiobooks anywhere at any time using your devices, like a: - Smartphone - Tablet - Computer - MP3 player - Kindle - Fire TV - Sonos speakers - Alexa-enabled devices - Amazon devices With these options, you can take your audiobooks with you while you an on your way to work, working out, waiting at the doctor’s office, sitting in a café, cooking in the kitchen and etc. You can have your favorite audiobook playing while you are busy doing something else. It is a very convenient tool that allows an efficient use your time. ## **What are the Benefits of Listening to Audiobooks?** Audiobooks are quite beneficial not just for book lovers, but also anyone who wants to learn. This technology helps people get easy access to information and contents that can help them develop and improve their knowledge and thinking skills. - **Finish Reading or Listening to More Books**If you are having trouble finding time to sit and read through your book, audiobooks can be a great alternative for you. You can be busy doing something else or be somewhere else while listening to your favorite book. There is no more need to set aside time to finish your book. Instead, you can drive, clean, eat or lay down and relax while listening to your story being narrated for you. - **Helps Use Your Time Wisely**So much time is wasted staring into space while stuck on traffic, waiting in line, etc. Instead of browsing through the internet, you can instead listen to audiobooks. You’ll be able to learn, discover or be entertained with the exciting adventures, mysteries or romance a great novel can bring you. It’s the best use of your time, especially compared to mindless browsing. - **Stories Are Narrated as Intended**A story can be interpreted in so many different ways, and this brings the fun in reading as you can bring it down to a personal level as you interpret it in your own understanding. But, listening to the author themselves, as they read through dialogues and paragraphs paints a better picture. This intimate experience lets you hear it in their voices every inflection that tells you how every word was intended. In other cases, actors or actresses delivers a performance that enhances the emotion and overall experience of listening. - **Better Way to Read or Learn**Audiobooks give more clarity to self-help books as it helps improve the learning experience. Sometimes a spoken word is well received, absorbed, and retained compared to reading written or printed texts alone. This is primarily because the listener will be focused on the knowledge being imparted rather than decoding and sounding out the words. Also, for those audio-learners, it may make more sense to get the audio version of a book instead of the printed one. - **Increases Understanding of Content** Children, for example, greatly appreciates books when accompanied with audiobooks as the story if read for them or with them. They can follow the words or images in the pages or screen, while they listen to the words that are read out loud. This way, they can keep their focus on the book and put all the prices of information faster and better. - **Helps Struggling Readers**With audiobooks, even those who struggle with their reading ability will have the opportunity to learn or get access to great contents and knowledge. This helps them improve their intellectual capabilities in spite of their reading level. They can develop thinking skills through audiobooks that would have been otherwise inaccessible or stressful to read. - **Assists in Independent Learning**Students who have access to audiobooks can use them to work on their studies independently, at their own speed and time. It gives them an advantage and confidence in learning and developing skills by having control. ## **Here are some of my favorite Audible listens** These are some of the books I’ve enjoyed listening so far: 1. [Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It](https://amzn.to/2MiSeil) (a great book on negotiation, as told by an FBI hostage negotiator) 2. [Shoe Dog](https://amzn.to/2W3e4Lc) (The story of the founder of Nike, very inspirational) 3. [MONEY Master the Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom](https://amzn.to/2T53HoE) (financial advice by Tony Robbins) 4. [Deep Work](https://amzn.to/2ROO9rH) (how to get more focused and less distracted) Let me know in the comments which book I should listen to next! I always love great recommendations in psychology, business and finances. ## **Conclusion** I recommend you [give Audible a try](https://amzn.to/2W2wTOH). Overall, Audible has made it very convenient for me to enjoy books while on-the-go and has definitely made me learn more. Whether you are driving on the road, jogging, or doing chores, Audible lets you listen to great stories narrated by famous A-list celebrities, actors, actresses or the authors themselves. A great interface paired with extensive selection makes it my favorite, compared to Google Audiobooks for instance. With the free app, it is an easy, cost-effective, and efficient solution for your learning or leisure needs. If you enjoyed this review, drop a comment and share it with a friend! Which book are you listening to this week? Is listening the new reading? --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Review Of 15 Best WordPress Plugins in 2026: Features & Plans Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/best-wordpress-plugins/ Published: 2022-03-01 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business TL;DR: Yoast SEO is free, but it also has a premium version that you can get for $89 per year for one site. Relevant: You would also like to check the best 20 SEO tools here WooCommerce is questionably the best plugin for eCommerce selling through your website. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. I am sure WordPress doesn’t need any introduction, and a lot of you must have used it once, either it’s for your personal blog, subscription to your favorite websites, business, or simply a landing page.  In my experience, what makes WordPress mostly win over [other platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-squarespace/) is a huge availability of plugins that absolutely simplify your tasks. WordPress is one of the most famous site-building platforms, and it can be buildable by adding plugins.  Plugins are great tools that make your WordPress richer with functionalities basically of any type possible.  By using different plugins you can create a top-notch website for your business, both in terms of functionality and design which can result in an extremely good user experience for your users. The types of plugins you add to your WordPress mostly depend on the type of business you have and the particular industry.  However, there are some plugins that are general and every type of business can benefit from having them.  For example, some of those [plugins are for SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/), site speed, security, clearing cache, etc. Regardless of the industry, having this is recommended.  But even having them specified by use, the choice can be quite hard to make because there are a lot of plugins available out there and thinking which one best suits your needs can be quite . overwhelming.  The official plugin repository offers more than 55.000 WordPress plugins and this number is constantly increasing as new plugins are added. There are free plugins and premium plugins. Which ones are more beneficial? Which of them are worth investing in?  In this post, I will choose the 15 best WordPress plugins that have helped me personally with my blogging journey.  ## 1\. Yoast SEO ![](/images/posts/inline/90c52cfb-screenshot-yoast.com-2020.08.10-17_56_56.png) There’s a reason why every good list of top plugins includes the [Yoast SEO plugin](https://yoast.com/wordpress/plugins/seo/). Mine is not any different. It’s not a surprise that search engines send the most traffic to your website. Knowing this, having your blog highly optimized should be very high on your priority list.  Having Yoast SEO plugin added to your WordPress makes [SEO much easier and defined](https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks/).  The plugin lets you know how your content will work with search engines by adding green, yellow, and red lights to certain areas of your content.  Green means that your content is highly optimized, yellow means that it needs more optimization, and red means the content is not optimized in the right way.  Some of the things that Yoast points out are keyword density, meta title, and description length, use of passive voice, readability, and much more, and it lets you know how to improve those things.  Yoast SEO is free, but it also has a premium version that you can get for $89 per year for one site. Relevant: You would also like to check the best 20 SEO tools [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ## 2\. WooCommerce  ![](/images/posts/inline/56b05315-screenshot-woocommerce.com-2020.08.10-17_58_42.png) [WooCommerce](https://woocommerce.com/) is questionably the best plugin for eCommerce selling through your website.  For anybody that wants to [create an online store](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-vs-magento/), WooCommerce makes the experience quite easy and smooth.  There are a lot of features offered with the plugin that grants your buyers a nice purchasing experience that from your side is not too complicated to set up.  The best thing about WooCommerce is the fact that the plugin itself has a huge extension library making it quite versatile.  You can add almost anything you can think of that your online shop needs like live chatting, automating sales taxes, currency converters, and whatnot!  It offers a lot of different paying options, extensions for things like payments, shipping, etc, affiliate products, subscriptions, refunds, stock tracking, email templates- you name it, WooCommerce has it.  There is a free version of WooCommerce, but not all of the extra extensions are free.  Also read [how to set up eCommerce from scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/)  ## 3\. Polylang ![](/images/posts/inline/de1e54e7-screenshot-polylang.pro-2020.08.10-17_59_33.png) [Polylang](https://polylang.pro/products/) is a plugin that allows you to create a bilingual or multilingual website which can be extremely beneficial according to the type of audience you receive.  As you create content as usual you have an option to define the language and then add translation which is optional.  There is no limit on how many languages you can add to your website. The WordPress language packs are downloaded and updated automatically.  You can translate literally everything on your website from pages, posts, media, to tags, menus widgets, categories, etc.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/5jrit0MvdS1wTjbYAvQ-Ux27gTy624ohrIh91NQG3og26beNLWBUJh69LPcFkvBA3WaXZKQKgVlmiOrzD7bJOwkVrvyIsoLYs7ym6ou5-_jJ-lJVxbmNQh9ssUz6w3E-C6gMsY_P) [](https://wordpress.org/plugins/polylang/) Also, you can translate any custom post types, custom taxonomies, navigation menus, and even URLs.  It is quite easy to use, and what’s most important it’s very SEO-friendly. Polylang is free as a plugin, but there are premium options like Polylang Pro and Polylang for WooCommerce and they are starting at 99 euros each.  ## 4\. Akismet  ![](/images/posts/inline/d7693222-screenshot-akismet.com-2020.08.10-18_00_13.png) [Akismet](https://akismet.com/) is a great plugin for blogs that come with comments and user submission forms. It is basically a plugin that regulates the spam from users in those sections.  It goes through the comments left on your comments or the form submissions and prevents potential spam and unintentionally sharing malicious content.  There is a feature that blocks out automatically the comments that show the worst types of scams, which in return leads to faster page loading for other users.  Akismet is a free plugin for personal sites and blogs, but for commercial sites, there are monthly plans that you can look through.  Some of the more expensive premium plans include advanced security aside from the spam protection.  Also read: [How to start a blog for beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-start-a-blog/)  ## 5\. Google Analytics for WordPress ![](/images/posts/inline/969b8495-screenshot-wordpress.org-2020.08.10-18_01_16.png) Another extremely important part of having a successful website is following and analyzing the analytics that come from that website.  One of the best analytics tools out there is Google Analytics, and there is a plugin with which you can connect your [Google Analytics with your WordPress](https://wordpress.org/plugins/google-analytics-for-wordpress/).  This plugin will let you know how your website is performing with real-time metrics directly from your WP dashboard. You’ll see traffic numbers, sources, bounce rates, organic search stats,  geolocation, and many, many other metrics that will let you get familiar with your visitors and their behavior on your blog.  The plugin is free to use and it’s compatible with WooCommerce and can be easily installed with [MonsterInsight](https://alejandrorioja.com/monsterinsights-review/). ## 6\. WordFence Security  ![](/images/posts/inline/ee4cd816-screenshot-wordpress.org-2020.08.10-18_01_59.png) Having a website is not a one-time effort, and it requires vigilance round the clock. If you want to make your website more secure, [WordFence Security](https://www.wordfence.com/) is a possible plugin for you.  It creates an endpoint firewall and malware scanner that is specifically tailored to protect websites built on WordPress.  The WordFence Security plugin can recognize and block online threats, malware, malicious traffic, and harmful content.  It is free, but for [additional security](https://flux.la/how-to-protect-your-data-when-working-from-home/), you can purchase the premium option for $99 per year. ## 7\. Jetpack  ![](/images/posts/inline/127acf4f-screenshot-jetpack.com-2020.08.10-18_03_56.png) Jetpack is another great and well-known plugin for WP that is used for generating more traffic to your website through combining performance, [website management tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-drive-10x-traffic-to-your-website/), and security.  It’s a plugin that overall improves the performance of your site. If you choose the free version, you will find 35 modules with different functions that you can use and combine.  The module’s functionalities range from those for infinite scroll, contact forms, custom CSS, or additional functionalities.  It has a built-in SEO with which it analyzes the performance of your website and offers protection through code scanning. Additional features are advanced commenting, social sharing, designing contact forms, etc.  Basic Jetpack is free as most of them are, and it has a premium version that offers quite a lot of additional features for a price starting at $39 per year. ## 8\. WP Rocket  ![](/images/posts/inline/ee43cb5b-screenshot-wp-rocket.me-2020.08.10-18_04_50.png) When you have a blog or any type of website in general, the speed of the site is of extreme importance.  Users are much more likely to leave the page if it loads more than a few seconds and that can be very bad for your business in general. [WP Rocket](https://wp-rocket.me/) is a plugin that will make your WordPress website load faster, improve search engine optimization, and overall increase conversions.  It is recognized as one of the most powerful caching plugins on WordPress by many users. The plugin additionally reduces the weight of HTML JavaScript and CSS files by minificating them. WP Rocket is developed specifically for WordPress and there will be more updates in the upcoming year. Relevant: Read my guide on increasing your website speed [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/)  ## 9\. NextGen Gallery  ![](/images/posts/inline/9cc304f5-screenshot-www.imagely.com-2020.08.10-18_06_27.png) NextGen Gallery is for websites that require smooth visuals in a modern design to support their content or products.  This plugin can create galleries with a lot of functionalities like photo effects, multiple album creation, editing of thumbnails, and more.  There are some templates that are ready to use so you can just do that to take your visuals to the next level.  There is a free version of the plugin that gets you some limited functionalities like three gallery designs, and two album styles, both highly customizable.  For the full power of the plugin, you will need the premium version which starts from $99 and offers vast opportunities for gallery creation.  ## 10\. VaultPress ![](/images/posts/inline/7215842a-screenshot-vaultpress.com-2020.08.10-18_07_17.png) You shouldn’t forget to backup your website because if you don’t, there can be some real consequences.  This plugin allows you to do optimized backups on a regular basis which will allow you to restore the website with just one click.  With some subscriptions, you can do this on a single dashboard for multiple websites.  Additionally, [VaultPress](https://vaultpress.com/plans/) scans and detects some dangerous files, allows you to review and manage suspicious codes and solve any issues.  There is also spam protection, and the subscriptions are bundled with Jetpack so you get the ultimate protection for your website.  There is a free limited version, and premium plans starting at $20 per month.  ## 11\. Sumo  ![](/images/posts/inline/3c5fd09a-screenshot-sumo.com-2020.08.10-18_08_29.png) [Sumo](https://sumo.com/) is a plugin for email marketing that will increase your site’s conversion rates and sales.  You can use this plugin to send bulk emails about whatever it is you need like updates, promotions, launches, etc.  Sumo allows you to create popups for email subscriptions, add share buttons on the site, collect emails, and more.  Of course, it has a free version and a pro version that starts with a $39 monthly subscription.  ## 12\. Broken Link Checker  ![](/images/posts/inline/8af57a7c-screenshot-www.brokenlinkcheck.com-2020.08.10-18_09_46.png) [Broken Link Checker](https://wordpress.org/plugins/broken-link-checker/) plugin will go and check internal and external broken links on your website and let you know by telling you the HTTP status code and the source link.  With that information, you can easily find and fix any broken links that your website might have.  This plugin will run all the time in the background and check from broken links, alerting you any time it finds any. When there are broken links, you can easily fix them in bulk with a few clicks. It will also suggest replacement links.  ## 13\. W3 Total Cache  ![](/images/posts/inline/9e38e0e4-screenshot-wordpress.org-2020.08.10-18_10_32.png) Another plugin that has a very positive effect on the speed of your website which is of extreme importance.  It’s considered one of the best plugins when it comes to increasing the speed of the site, and it does that by saving the static content into the browsers of the visitors.  So when the visitors come again, the site will load quicker since the browsers don’t need to re-download all the tiles.  [W3 Total Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/w3-total-cache/) employs AMP, clears cached files via WP-CLI, saves up to 80% bandwidth by compressing and minifying files, and much more.  The plugin is free to use, but of course, it has premium options from $99 per year with additional functionalities.  Also learn about website rank and rent [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/rank-and-rent/) ## 14\. Elementor  ![](/images/posts/inline/7d7c9b90-screenshot-elementor.com-2020.08.10-18_11_21.png) [Elementor](https://elementor.com/?gclid=CjwKCAjwrcH3BRApEiwAxjdPTdYJv8lchXr-MsLq_-CBZHOLwEKS3YXQX2TTTVfwvQ51da9XVBeNIBoCcHEQAvD_BwE) is another plugin that is extremely well-known and used by millions of users that have WordPress websites.  The purpose of Elementor is to create very stylish designs on your pages through a very easy drag and drop interface.  In the early days of the platform, Elementor was updated and made even more customizable than before offering more templates and tools to enrich the visuals of your website.  Additionally, there is a built-in Maintenance mode and a *Coming Soon* feature that can be quite useful when the website is expecting to experience changes.  ## 15\. Visual Composer ![](/images/posts/inline/4d6f2529-screenshot-visualcomposer.com-2020.08.10-18_12_54.png) This is another drag and drop editor that will help you to build a good-looking website very easily.  The coding part is eliminated completely and everyone can use it to create beautiful web pages.  In the free version, you can find more than 40 elements and different templates that you can use in whoever way you’d want. There is additionally an option to make adjustments through local and global CSS/JavaScript editors.  Visual Composer is a free plugin, but of course, there is a premium version that gives a lot more functionalities and templates for $59 per year.  ## To sum up  There are truly a lot of good, high-quality, extremely helpful plugins for WordPress out there for any problem or function you can think of.  All of them can’t be fit into a single article, so I chose the ones from my personal experience which is find really helpful and effective.  Some of them are absolutely necessary like cache plugin, SEO plugin, and security plugin, others connected to design and images are totally up to you. Do you have any experience with these plugins? Which plugin works wonders for you that’s not on this list?  Let me know in the comments below.  For your next read, choose some of these posts:  - [Five features that make WordPress great](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) - [How to create a WordPress site logo](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/) - [My best SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Do Digital Marketing: A Beginner’s Guide 2026 Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/ Published: 2022-03-01 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO, Social Media Marketing, affiliate marketing, Cover Photo Marketing, ecommerce iphone app, facebook budget ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line As a newbie in the digital marketing space, all the requirements can get overwhelming fast. However, understanding the basics of digital marketing will help you bridge the skill gap. There are numerous digital marketing strategies you can put in place for maximum results. Seeing results takes time, but you will notice a better ROI if you are doing it right. This article walks you through the efficient ways of how to do digital marketing deriving from my own experience and best practice. You will learn about the basic aspect like content marketing, social media management, SEO, email and affiliate marketing and much more to get you started. My first year as a digital marketing professional was absolutely exciting! And intimidating at the same time! Why the latter you ask? Because when you talk about digital marketing, it’s not only about being tech-savvy but to be smart enough to make the most of every platform and grow your business. And for that, you need to understand Digital marketing inside out! > Digital Marketing is defined as all efforts in marketing and assets using an electronic device or the internet. Companies leverage their digital channels such as social media, email, and other online platforms to connect with existing and prospective customers.   In this article, I will share with you all the efficient ways of how to do Digital Marketing and while you are at it, don’t forget to check [my top articles on digital marketing here](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/)!. ## Getting started  at Digital Marketing Getting started in Digital Marketing is quite easy. [Plenty of online advertising sites](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescontentmarketing/2019/05/28/digital-advertising-trends-to-watch-in-2019-and-beyond/) make it easy to register and create your very first campaign. Here are some of the critical questions you would want to ask in starting with digital marketing: ### **1\. How Much Should I Make?** It is essential to clarify the goals of your business when figuring out what to spend on digital marketing. Your approach will vary depending on your brand’s ultimate goal. You may want to drive conversions: leads, sales, the revenue of a specific amount of ROI. When you boil it down, the ultimate goal with any marketing entity must be ROI.  Conversions and clicks are good, but your organization does not make money from such clicks, the brand makes money from sales. With this approach in mind, the first thing you must clarify before you decide on digital marketing is to determine how much revenue you want to attain. Once you have determined this, you can now utilize that information to define how much you will spend to hit that revenue goal. ### **2\. Who Is My Target Audience?** Once you have defined the amount of cash you want to make from digital marketing, ask now to whom you are marketing the product. This is vital because there are plenty of different buyer personas that require varying marketing strategies. Moreover, changing buyer personas align to different kinds of buyers.  If you cannot determine your buyer personas, it could be impossible to create an [efficient digital marketing strategy](https://acodez.in/digital-marketing-statistics/). Even talking to your sales team is not enough to define your buyer personas to the level of detail you need to collate your marketing plan. To attain this, you must get to the details of talking to your current customers. Inquire on how they found your service or product, what were the factors that convinced them to spend on your service. These types of information will provide you a comprehensive insight into your sales process that you can harness to better your advertising performance and choose the right amount of marketing budget. ### **3\. How Much Are My Buyers Worth?** People commonly look at buyer personas as the right way to create [an efficient marketing strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/online-marketing-digital-guide/). Determining Buyer personas is important in collating an excellent digital marketing plan. ## Benefits of Digital Marketing The primary advantage of digital marketing in that there is a target audience that can be reached through measurable and cost-effective ways. The following benefits of digital marketing: 1. The international audience-an online platform enables you to find new prospective buyers globally for a simple small investment.  2. Affordable cost- a well-targeted digital marketing strategy can reach the right buyers at a much more affordable price than typical, traditional marketing strategies. 3. Measurable output- having measurable digital marketing with online metrics and web analytics make it easier to maintain an effective campaign. Your business attains comprehensive information with how customers use your platform to respond with your advertising. 4. Good customer relations- if your brand’s customer database is linked to your website, then whenever an individual visits the site, they can be greeted with offers. The more customers buy from you, the more you can refine your buyer personas and market to them effectively. 5. Transparency- When your organization is involved with proper social media management, you can maintain and build customer loyalty and build a good reputation for customer engagement. 6. Social currency- Digital Marketing allows you to create campaigns with content marketing strategies. This type of content has images, videos, and articles that can better your social money, with your brand name being passed from many users and being viral. 7. Better conversion rates- if your brand has a website, your customers will only click a few times until they make a purchase. Unlike other platforms that require people to fill out paperwork or go to a store, digital marketing is immediate. ## Cons of Digital Marketing Some of the disadvantages of Digital Marketing you must know to include: 1. Need for skills and proper training- You must ensure that your personnel has the right skills and expertise to carry out the company’s digital marketing strategy seamlessly. Platforms, tools, and trends quickly change, and you must maintain relevance. 2. Highly time-consuming- optimizing SEO, [knowing SEO trends](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2020/01/21/seo-in-2020-what-to-expect-for-the-year-ahead/#5116ebc840d0), and creating digital marketing content will take up plenty of time. It is significant to measure your marketing results to ensure your ROI. 3. Saturated competition-You can reach a global audience in digital marketing, and this makes your brand go up against competition from different parts of the world too. It will be a challenge for your company to stand out and remain unique to be attention-grabbing among many advertisements consumers see online. 4. Feedback and complaints-any negative criticism of your service or product will be visible to your audience through websites and social media. You must carry out active online customer service to respond to complaints and solve customer challenges. 5. Security issues- there are plenty of legal considerations for collecting customer information for marketing purposes. Your company must comply with the standards and rules involving data and privacy protection. Relevant: [Check the top SEO tools for 2022 here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ## What does a digital marketer do? Digital Marketers are the ones in charge of company brand awareness and leading generation with all digital platforms. These digital platforms would include the company’s website, search engine rankings, emails, display advertising, social media in the company blog.  The digital marketer focuses on key performance indicators for each specific channel so they can correctly measure the company’s performance with each platform. For instance, a digital marketer in charge of SEO measures the company site’s organic traffic- the traffic from the website visitors who arrive at the pages through Google search. Digital Marketing is carried out in many roles in marketing nowadays. In small brands, one generalist may own the majority of digital marketing strategies. While in large companies, these strategies may be handled by plenty of specialists that focus on the multiple channels of that more substantial company. You may wonder what roles digital marketers take. The following are a few examples of these professionals: ### 1\. **SEO Manager** SEO managers generate organic traffic to the company’s online presence. Using different approaches to search engine optimization, this individual would most likely work with content creators to ensure the [content performs well on online search rankings.](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ### 2\. Content Marketing Specialist This person is a digital content creator. They usually keep track of the company’s post and blogging calendar and create a strategy that includes making all types of online content. These professionals typically collaborate with people in different departments to ensure that the company campaigns and product launches are supported with efficient online promotion with each digital channel. ### 3\. Social Media Manager This role involves establishing a posting schedule for the organization’s visual and written content. This professional would most likely work with content marketing to allocate which content to post on each social media site. ### 4\. Marketing Automation Specialist This role entails managing the software that enables the entire marketing team to understand their customer’s behavior and measure the growth of the business as time progresses. This role groups digital activities into separate campaigns and tracks the performances of each campaign. ## Inbound Marketing vs. Digital Marketing The two may appear similar on the surface: both take place online, and both centralize on creating digital content for buyers. So what is the difference between Inbound Marketing and Digital Marketing? Digital marketing does not differentiate with push and pull marketing strategies or what would be considered s outbound and inbound methods. Both still fall within the realm of digital marketing. Digital outbound tactics focus on putting a marketing context or message straight to as many people as possible online, regardless if it is welcomed or relevant. For instance, the in your face banner ads you may see at the top of many sites trying to push the promotion of a product to people who are not exactly ready to receive the item or service. Marketers who utilize digital inbound tactics use online material to attract their target prospects onto their websites by providing their assets that are helpful to these prospects. Some of the simplest yet most impactful inbound digital marketing assets are through blog posts, which enables your site to capitalize on terms that your ideal candidates are looking for. Inbound marketing is defined as a methodology that harnesses digital marketing to engage, attract, and delight prospects online. Digital marketing, however, is an umbrella term used to describe all kinds of marketing tactics online, regardless if they are outbound or inbound. ## Digital Marketing Examples The following are some of the most commonly used Digital Marketing tactics and their channel examples: ### 1\. SEO optimization  Search Engine Optimization is the process of optimizing your company cite to have a higher rank in search engine results pages (SERPS), hence adding up on the amount of organic traffic that your website receives. The channels that are benefited from SEO are blogs, infographics, websites, and infographics. There are ways to harness SEO to generate quality traffic to your site, and these are: - On-page SEO: This approach of SEO centralizes all content that is on the page when looking at a specific location. Through researching keywords with their intent and search volume, you can answer the reader’s questions and have a higher rank in the result pages of the search engine those queries create. - [Off-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/): This kind of SEO focuses on all the activity off the page when looking at website optimization. Now you may ask what the events that are not on your site that could better your ranking are? The answer is through backlinks, otherwise known as inbound links. The number of publishers that link to you and the authority of relevance of those publishers affect how high you will rank with the keywords your business cares for. Through networking with varying publishers, writing guest posts on these sites, and generating outside attention, you can easily earn backlinks that will help move your website in the correct SERPs. - Technical SEO: This approach to SEO focuses on the backend of your website and how your page is coded. Structured data, CSS file optimization, and image compression are all under the forms of technical SEO that can add up on your site’s loading speed, which is a significant ranking factor in search engines such as Google. ### 2\. Content Marketing This digital marketing term denotes the promotion and creation of content assets for generating traffic growth, lead generation, and brand awareness. The channels that play a part in a content marketing strategy are: - Blog posts: publishing and writing blog articles within a company blog helps your brand demonstrate your expertise and boosts organic search traffic. This gives your brand additional opportunities to convert site visitors to sales leads. - Ebooks: this channel allows you to exchange your content with a reader’s contact information, which generates leads for your company and moving users to the buyer’s journey. - Infographics: These are a great way of visual content that helps your website visitors visualize a concept that you would want them to learn and understand quickly. Relevant: [Check how you can boost your traffic with these must-try content marketing trends](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) ### Social Media Marketing This approach promotes your content and brand in social media sites to generate traffic, brand awareness and leads to your business. The channels used for social media marketing are Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, Pinterest. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/onQ7I5U56Jg2zlJLa7lVzC-vbG0xYeCJECBpfyq32aCjx2qPYm_PlK_sywraFw1ZrLnoWUvrQqRlHBqSZ-gOaMJhZbRwal8_LLiOYsUep0iwdWSB41fBsYfN777Irm96jwMh5R5K) ### 4\. Pay Per Click PPC is a method of generating online traffic by paying a publisher each time your ad is clicked. One of the common types of PPC is through Google Ads, which enables you to pay for the top spots on Google’s search engine results with a price per click on the links you allocate. Other PPC channels are: Facebook ads-where you can pay to customize an image, slideshow, or video that Facebook will publish to people who are your business’s target audience. Twitter ad campaigns: with this, users can pay to allocate a series of profile badges or posts to new feeds of a particular audience, all dedicated to attaining a specific target for your business. This goal can vary from tweet engagement, more twitter followers to app downloads. LinkedIn sponsored messages: this method allows users to pay to send messages straight to the LinkedIn user based on their background and industry. ### 5\. Affiliate Marketing [This method of performance-based advertising](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/) allows you to receive a commission for the promotion of someone else’s services or product to your website. Affiliate marketing channels are:  - Posting sponsored/affiliate links from your social media channels - Hosting ads with the Youtube Partner Program ### 6\. Native Advertising This refers to ads that are featured on a channel along with other non-paid material or content. An excellent example of this is Buzzfeed sponsored posts. People also consider social media ads to be native, such as Instagram and Facebook advertising.  ### 7\. Marketing Automation This method refers to the software that allows you to automate your essential marketing operations. Marketing departments can easily automate their tasks as opposed to doing them manually; these tasks include: 1. Blasting of email newsletters: email automation allows you to shrink and increase your contact database as needed, so your newsletters are only sent to people who would want to have them in their inboxes. Scheduling social media posts: If you aim to grow your company presence on social media, you must post frequently. Frequent and scheduled social media posting may be quite unruly a task, but it can push your content to social media channels for your brand. 2. Nurturing workflows: Generating leads into customers can be a time-consuming process. You can automate these leads to receiving specific emails and content when they fit the particular buyer persona. Campaign reporting and tracking: Marketing campaigns usually include tons of people with tasks to handle content, emails, webpages, phone calls, among many aspects. Marketing automation can boost you to sort work in a campaign and track performance involved in the campaign based on all the progress of said performance over time. ### 8\. Email Marketing Organizations use email marketing as a method of communicating with their customers. Emails are often used to deliver and promote content and upcoming events, as well as to lead customers towards the company website. The email types you would send in an email marketing campaign would be: - Customer welcome messages - Follow up emails to site visitors who downloaded content - Holiday promotions to current existing customers - Newsletters ### 9\. Online Public Relations Online PR refers to the practice of securing online coverage with blogs and other forms of digital publications. It is similar to traditional PR but online. The channels you can harness to better your PR efforts would be:  Outreach to reporters through social media: Conversing with journalists on Instagram or Twitter is a powerful way to develop your company’s relationship with the press that can create media opportunities for your organization. Engaging with online reviewers of your brand: Whenever a customer reviews your company online, whether it is good or bad feedback, it is good to engage with. Engaging with online reviews would help you humanize your company and deliver well-meaning messaging that would protect your brand reputation. Engaging comments on your company blog: In the same way you respond with reviews, responding to feedback is the best way to better productive conversation within your industry. ## The role of digital marketing in a company Different from most traditional offline marketing efforts, digital marketing enables marketers to see automated, accurate results in real-time. For instance, if you ever put up an ad within a magazine, you will know how difficult it would be to estimate how many people actually flipped the pages and saw or even paid attention to your ad. In offline marketing, there is no accurate way to know if that ad was responsible for any of your sales. With digital marketing, you can easily measure your ROI for all aspects of your marketing campaigns. ## What kinds of digital content do I create? The type of content to create depends on the needs and challenges that your audience face within their buyer journey. Start with establishing buyer personas to define what are the goals of your audience about your company. You must aim to assist them in meeting their goal and overcome difficulties. Afterward, you need to determine when they are likely to be ready to purchase your content. Think about the stage prospects are within the buyer’s journey. This process is called content mapping. Content mapping assures the goal to the target is according to: 1. The closeness of a prospect to purchase 2. The characteristics of the prospects For instance, to implement PPC with Google Adwords, you will have to bid against other businesses in your industry to appear within the top of Google’s search results for keywords related to your business. Depending on the keyword competitiveness, this can be affordable or very expensive, which is why you must also focus on your company’s organic reach. ## Digital Marketing Assets  People are not entirely aware of the digital marketing assets they have. The following are examples of Digital Marketing Assets: 1. Company website 2. Brand assets: logos, acronyms, icons 3. Video Content 4. Images 5. Written posts: blogs, testimonial, product descriptions 6. Online Reviews 7. Pages on social media ## Does Digital Marketing require a big budget? The answer to this question depends on what modes of digital marketing you are going to use to enact your strategy. If you choose to focus on inbound techniques such as social media, content creation, and SEO for a pre-existing website, you would not need much budget whatsoever. With inbound marketing, the focus is to create good quality content that your audience would want to spend on and consume. With outbound techniques such as purchasing email lists and online advertising, there would be some expense. What this cost comes to how much visibility you would want to attain through advertising. Depending on the keyword competitiveness, this strategy can be affordable or highly expensive, which is why it’s a bright idea to focus on your organic reach as well. ## Stages of the buyer’s journey In terms of creating your buyer personas, here are the stages and our suggested channels to consider in the buyer’s journey: 1. Awareness Stage: this stage engages and must entice people to your service. The platforms used to generate brand awareness would be blog posts, infographics, and short videos. 2. Consideration stage: this stage needs further backing of data where customers are almost hooked to your product. Channels to use at the consideration stage would be research reports, webinars, and ebooks.  3. Decision Stage: This final stage is when the customer to either purchase your service or not. This stage would require further data for your prospects. Platforms to help the decision stage would be Case studies and testimonials. ## How to do digital Marketing on Mobile? As you can likely imagine, mobile digital marketing is profoundly different from the digital marketing with the desktop. These differences are significantly significant with the reason that smartphones are currently the primary device that people use to explore online. People’s 60% of online activity is through their mobile devices; the change from the desktop to mobile has a very profound effect on digital marketing. In the early days of the platform, Google Adwords removed the sidebar ads within their result pages to make room for a more consistent experience with the desktop and mobile.  Shorter blog posts and reviews outperform long blog posts on mobile, and this list continues on and on. In the context of today’s digital marketing world, it is good to assume that people will encounter your marketing on mobile and harness your strategy on desktop as needed.  Moreover, in optimizing your ads to mobile, it is vital to think about your site. You must also keep in mind the buying experience within it. Your website may look seamless and beautiful on a desktop, but if it is challenging to navigate the site on mobile, you may end up alienating a high percentage of your online traffic. You must have a mobile responsive online presence, but your mobile experience should be explicitly outlined to facilitate a seamless mobile journey. Digital marketers should now have a mindset that digital marketing is now a mobile experience. The good news is that if your company is entirely new to digital marketing, you will not have to worry about reinventing the wheel. You may start by formulating impactful and compelling mobile advertisements and then adapt accordingly for desktop. Also read: [How to combine email and social media marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) ## Bottom line With ever-growing digital channels, Digital Marketing is here to stay. To add to the benefits we have discussed, your company can easily track the results of your digital marketing campaigns to high accuracy. This advantage makes it incredibly easy which strategies use the most profitable results and which ones would require other approaches or added work. Learned a lot from this post? You can learn more about tech-savvy social media hacks here: - [How to do affiliate marketing?](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) - [Tips to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) - [Get more Snapchat followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) Drop a comment below and let me know what guides would you like to see next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Cancel All Pending Friend Requests on Facebook (2026 Script) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-cancel-all-pending-friend-requests-on-facebook/ Published: 2022-03-01 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: The link is https://m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing/#friends\center\main Don’t forget to scroll down that list all the way to the bottom. ## Table of contents A lot of marketers now use Facebook as a way to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, clients, coaches, and leaders. Facebook has now become a really great tool for communication, allowing us to directly message pretty much anyone. Today, I’d like to share a 3-step tutorial to remove/cancel **all** the pending friend requests you have sent on Facebook in one click. (Even if you have iOS or Android, I suggest you do this on a laptop). This works as of April 2026. ## Step 1 – Go to the Facebook Friends Mobile Site and Scroll Down to the Bottom The link is [https://m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing/#friends\_center\_main](https://m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing/#friends_center_main) Don’t forget to scroll down that list all the way to the bottom. ## Step 2 – Go to the Chrome/Firefox Console You can right-click anywhere on the page and then select Inspect. ![cancel all friend requests on Facebook](/images/posts/inline/a45f965f-cancel-all-friend-requests-on-facebook.png) or you can press **alt+cmd+J** on Chrome. ## Step 3 – Paste this script on the console ``` var inputs = document.getElementsByClassName('_54k8 _52jg _56bs _26vk _2b4n _56bt'); for(var i=0; i != inputs.length; i++) { inputs[i].click(); } ``` That’s it! You’re done. ## Manual Method If there’s only one specific friend request you want to cancel, you can do so by 1. Going to your [sent friend requests](https://www.facebook.com/friends/requests/?fcref=none&outgoing=1). 2. Hovering over **Friend Request Sent** next to the request you’d like to cancel. 3. Selecting **Cancel Request** > **Cancel Request**. If you liked this, share it with a growth hacker! Also, if you are in the same space as me (entrepreneurship, digital marketing, growth hacking) [let’s connect on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro)! I love meeting new people. Other articles you will certainly enjoy: - [Invite all your friends to like your FB page or event](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) - [How to download any Facebook video](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/) - [How to get more Snap followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) - A selection of my [best marketing guides](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A few things have shifted since this post first went up. **Meta dropped the legacy "Page" verification track in 2024** and folded it into **Meta Verified** ($14.99–$19.99/mo depending on tier and country) — the blue check is now a subscription, not a one-time review. Friend-request flows still work as described, though Meta moved the bulk-cancel UI deeper into mobile settings; the desktop `m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing` route still works (2026-04 spot check). Worth knowing in 2026: ~3.07B Facebook MAU (Meta Q4 2025 earnings), but the share of *time-on-platform* relative to Reels and WhatsApp has continued sliding. If this post is part of an outreach strategy, weight WhatsApp and Threads (yes — Threads survived the 2024 pivot speculation and crossed 200M MAU) accordingly. --- ## WhatsMySERP Review: The Free KeywordsEverywhere Alternative Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/ Published: 2022-03-01 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Whatsmyserp supports over 100 of Google regions and continuously adds Local Listings. Your Google ranking would vary and differ with mobile and desktop searches for plenty of factors, such as location, behavior, environment, search history, and much more. ## Table of contents In my quest of [endlessly optimizing websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), I happen to run into a number of tools that claim to provide expert and enhanced [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) tracking which helps in the SEO rankings, but most of them do not always deliver accurate results.  On the contrary, there are [SEO tools in the market](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) that have been providing accurate results for a significant time now. Out of these, one of my favorites is [Whatsmyserp](https://whatsmyserp.com/) which is a free rank tracker that helps users accurately gauge their SEO rankings. The online tracker helps you monitor your website rankings through using a keyword tracker. Here is my review for you to learn more and figure if Whatsmyserp is the rank tracker for you. I’m also going to review WMSEverywhere which shows keyword search data right on Google (similar to what KeywordsEverywhere did) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaBR3Orca4A ## WhatsMySERP’s Features In a nutshell: Whatsmyserp automatically updates the user data daily maintaining its accuracy and relevance. It also offers unlimited keyword rankings to users. If you need current rankings, you can simply refresh your rank tracker on-demand, as often as you desire. One of the most important features of Whatsmyserp is that it is easy to use for people without all sorts of programming knowledge. Let’s look into some of Whatsmyserp’s key features: ### 1\. Regional Searches The tracker has a simple yet extremely effective technique of querying on the user’s selected region. They have private proxy servers in the US, which may alter the results you will see if you are from Britain or France. This scenario happens because your browser may bring you back localized effects. However, Whatsmyserp’s private proxies are not a similar localized area as its users. For instance, if your particular keyword is related to a service like a barbershop, you will most likely receive different results. ### 2\. Infinite domains and on-demand checks Whatsmyserp allows you to add and track 25 keywords, and continue to work on adding up much more. If you feel like a keyword needs a rank refresh, simply click on the refresh button! ![List of keywords with corresponding actions.](https://whatsmyserp.com/) ### 3\. Localized tracking If you run a localized SEO campaign, you would want to be able to track your website ranking in various local regions. With this tracker, you can for any place in the world. Whatsmyserp supports over 100 of Google regions and continuously adds Local Listings. ### 4\. Desktop and Mobile Tracking Your Google ranking would vary and differ with mobile and desktop searches for plenty of factors, such as location, behavior, environment, search history, and much more. Whatsmyserp’s Desktop and Mobile tracking can help you keep tabs on how your website is ranking on all devices. ## How to use Whatsmyserp? Registration is pretty simple, quick, and free. You sign up through providing your email and a password. Once you have confirmed your email address and logged in, you are brought to Whatsmyserp’s homepage to fill out the necessary portions to use the tracker. You are offered to fill out the domain name, to choose which location to track and which devices you would want to see your track ranking. Users are also obliged to fill out the keywords relating to their classification. You can add plenty of domains that give you the capacity to graph, track, and check your SERP history with up to 500 keywords. Users that are registered in Whatsmyserp get 25 keywords for each domain, up to an exact 20 areas, and check keywording positions for free. The point where Whatsmyserp is really winning is the liberty of adding a multitude of domains. It allows you the capacity to graph, track, and check SERP history with up to 500 keywords. If you are registered in Whatsmyserp you will get 25 keywords for each domain, up to an exact 20 areas, and check keywording positions for free. [If you want to compare Whatsmyserp with other top SEO tools, you would like to check this!](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ![What\`s my SERP dashboard presented on laptop screen.](https://whatsmyserp.com/) ## Free SERP checker Whatsmyserps’s free checker allows you to search for ten keywords per day. These searches are based on Google rankings and would be deleted the next day. This feature is smart on Whatsmyserp’s part since it would entice users to register an account so they can keep track of their SEO rankings. Once you are a registered user, you can include multiple domains and see more keyword rankings and compare your present ranking in past ones. [Don’t forget to check my guide on keywords research here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) ## What is WMS Everywhere? ![](/images/posts/inline/ca7f4452-image-1024x682.png) WMS Everywhere is a browser extension that allows you to uncover advertising costs in each click, search volume, and keywords related to Google search results. You get these features for free and on-demand. With WMS Everywhere, you will receive unlimited on-demand keyword research data inside Google search results. You get unlimited on-demand searches for keywords and an abundant collection of search terms related to your initial keywords. WMS Everywhere is available to use for Google Chrome. Whatsmyserp is also working to have it available in Firefox. This browser extension helps you gain access to costs per click, related keywords, and volumes without leaving your Google search results. ### WMS Everywhere Features 1. The volume of searches: You can see the current average of keyword search volume over the recent year. 2. Costs per clicks: The expected cost per click as what is paid by the advertiser via Google’s Adwords. 3. Keywords: Users will see it compiled related keywords in the current searches, which include what netizens searched. ### How to use WMS Everywhere 1. Add the [WMS Everywhere](https://whatsmyserp.com/everywhere) extension to your browser. 2. Google whichever keyword you would like to see recommendations for. 3. Get your keyword recommendations and see what people are searching for. ## Whatsmyserp vs. Others ### Whatsmyserp vs. [Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com/) What makes Whatsmyserp user-friendly is its simple interface that is free and accessible to a certain degree. While Ahrefs instantly requires users to register to use their features, and start a week-long trial for 7$. ### Whatsmyserp vs. [Keywordseverywhere](https://keywordseverywhere.com/) Keywordseverywhere has become a paid tool since October 2019; to have it as an add-on you must register, pay along with a monthly newsletter to get an account. Whatsmyserp allows a free checker service, which will enable users to search ten keywords a day along with unlimited domain searches with a domain account. If you are looking for other tools, check my compilation of SEO tools [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/). ## Payment method In case you would like to get that WMS subscription, here are some of the terms to keep in mind and you may encounter: ### **Whatsmyserp Subscription** If you decide to have a Whatsmyserp subscription, you will have a continuous month-to-month subscription until you have it terminated. For you to use Whatsmyserp’s service, you are required to provide a valid, accepted method of payment, which you can update from time to time within the “Payment method” page. If ever you ever cancel your subscription before an upcoming monthly billing date, you authorize Whatsmyserp to then charge for your next month’s fee within your Payment method. Whatsmyserp also has a support team: support@WhatsMySerp.com, that you can email to acquire particular details about your subscription. ### Billing Your prospective subscription fee will be charged monthly to your selected payment method on the day that corresponds with the paying commencement of your subscription. In particular cases, your payment day may change, for instance, if your payment method is not successfully settled or maybe your paid subscription started on a day that is not contained within a given month. Whatsmyserp’s support is available when such a thing happens. The support staff at Whatsmyserp is extremely understanding and ensures to process everything smoothly, as long as the reasons provided are genuine. Your next date of payment is included in each monthly receipts you will receive from Whatsmyserp ### Refunds WMS allows refunds for customers who are not satisfied with their services. You can request a full refund in the first 30 days of WMS’s new subscription. Your repayment is processed through their customer support staff. However, refunds will not be applicable to free services of free credits. Any changes to service plan prices within WMS will apply to users. Of course, you will be notified of this, and these charges will be applied within 30 days after notifying subscribers.  ## Whatsmyserps License Use Granted permission to temporarily download materials such as information or software on WhatsySerp’s site is for viewing only. The grant of the license does not allow to modify documents, user materials for commercial purpose or public use, decompile any sort of software in WMS’s site, remove any kind of copyright from materials, or allow the transfer of materials from one person to any different server. ## Is Whatsmyserp based on Google rankings? At the moment, Whatsmyserp is focused on Google, but the online tracker’s website disclosed that it is eyeing to track Yahoo and Bing rankings soon. Relevant: [Understanding Google RankBrain SEO and How it Affect Your Rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) ## Free vs. Premium Users can check on Google rankings for free using Whatsmyserp’s SERP checker tool. However, users are only limited to ten keyword searches a day. Though you can create your account free of charge to get that unlimited checks on keyword rankings. You can upgrade to Whatsmyserp’s premium, which is at an affordable price at 5$/month. With the Premium plan, you can save your domains, and keep your keywords on track and manage a SERP result history archive. ## Customer Support Though Whatsmyserp does not have sufficient articles available to guide users, it does have a contact email available if you ever need to have your queries answered. ## Whatsmyserp at a Glance Whatsmyserp is a straightforward and effective ranking tracker that you can easily use for your domain and keyword searches. With the majority of online trackers charging upon registration, WMS is one of the few online extensions that allow you to have free access to domain searches, and their service is very much affordable and worth spending. Leave a comment below and let me know what are your go-to tracking tools! Learned a lot from this post? You can learn more about online reviews and hacks here: - [How to invite all friends to like a page on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) - [How to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) - [Get more Snapchat followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## 4 Ways A Well-Written Resume Can Help You Land Your Dream Job Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/4-ways-a-well-written-resume-can-help-you-land-your-dream-job/ Published: 2022-02-28 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Your resume reflects your professional image in the world of corporations. It acts as a bridge between you and your recruiter, and it can let you convincingly advertise your skills, making you a competitive job applicant. An average recruiter is most likely to spend an [average of eight to 10 seconds](https://www.theladders.com/static/images/basicSite/pdfs/TheLadders-EyeTracking-StudyC2.pdf) reviewing your resume before moving on to the next application. As a result, your resume must stand apart from the crowd so that it makes a lasting impression. Individuals will often spend a considerable amount of time focusing on [qualifications and skills](https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/qualities-recruiters-want-to-see) that need to be in their resume rather than how the resume is written in terms of the style, font, layout, and language. However, it is necessary to realize that both hold an equal significance. Here are four ways a well-written resume can help you land your dream job ## 1\. Makes a Good First Impression Your resume reaches the recruiter’s office before any direct communication takes place between you two, giving them their first impression of you. By making a lasting impression, a well-written, well-structured resume can do half of your work when it comes to competing for a job opening. ## 2\. Effectively Sells Your Skills A well-written resume will sell the expertise and skills you have acquired over the years. In addition, you can tailor your skills to the job you are applying for and highlight transferable skills like teamwork or adaptability through your resume.  These days, recruiters look for the skills they require through [keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/). For example, if you are applying for a data analyst position, your resume should include words like ‘python’ and ‘data management.’ If your resume contains those keywords, is structured well, and is written in a persuasive tone, it will effectively serve its purpose. ## 3\. Highlights Your Achievements Your professional or educational career achievements make your resume stand out and distinguish you from the rest of the candidates. If your resume is structured enough to have a separate section for your awards and achievements, it will properly highlight them and emphasize consistent progress in your educational and professional journey. ## 4\. Acts As Your Professional Identity It is essential to create your own professional identity in this ultra-competitive professional world, and you can do it through your resume. A well-written resume can be the best tool to portray you as capable and ready to face the challenges of a professional world.  ## Bottom line A good resume will ensure that you maximize your chances of receiving an interview call from your dream company. You need to work hard to ensure that it convinces the recruiter that you are one of the most eligible prospects for the position offered. If written effectively, your resume will reflect your aspirations and achievements in a way that aligns you with the objectives of the prospective company and portrays you as a valuable addition to it. It is definitely your gateway to your interview for your dream job.  To draft a perfect resume, you can look up [resume tips](https://www.cvmaker.com/) to help you present your professional identity and increase your chances of getting a call for that highly competitive, well-paying job. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 6 Ways To Crush It On Instagram Using Growth Hacking Techniques Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/instagram-growth-hacking-techniques/ Published: 2022-02-17 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Instagram is more than sharing your photos; it’s also a useful social media channel for you to introduce your brand further and post relevant content to enhance your digital marketing through Instagram. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line When every business has started to leave a mark in the digital world, you must take a step forward and find ways to rise above your competitors. With everyone depending on the internet, growth hacking helps you reach these people and drive them towards your content and brand.  Growth hacking does not require any technical skills; it’s a simple but effective strategy to reach a broader audience and drive more people to get to know your brand. It’s also an ideal way to improve your published content on Instagram to attract more users and make them come back to check your new posts.  Instagram is more than sharing your photos; it’s also a useful social media channel for you to introduce your brand further and post relevant content to enhance your digital marketing through Instagram.  Through Instagram, your SEO rankings on Google Search can improve, driving more traffic if you have a stand-alone business website.  While most businesses are peacefully running in the digital world, here comes Uber and Airbnb swooping in and dominating everyone else. The big question is: how did they do it?  It’s called [growth hacking](https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2015/02/10/growth-hacking-4-simple-tactics-to-get-in-the-game/?sh=4362858d9193). I tried it, and believe me, when I tell you that my Instagram followers grew quickly in just a span of a few days. Frankly, I was amazed at the impact of my Instagram account on [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/).  If you’re still quite unsure whether a photo-sharing social media application like Instagram can help with a business’s search engine capital, let me convince you. Let’s talk about the different growth hacking techniques you can use to crush it on Instagram.  ## Own and Control The Numbers Utilizing the growth hacking techniques on [Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/tips-to-get-more-instagram-followers/) means the strength and competition are in the numbers. [Increasing IG followers](https://www.socialpros.co/how-to-get-more-followers-on-instagram/) and broadening your reach are some of your first objectives for a successful growth hack.  While you’re used to “quality over quantity,” you also have to note that successful growth hacking involves a wider audience talking about your brand simultaneously. With a large following, you’re certain that more people are interested in your brand and what it offers.  With Instagram, you must create enough reach to make your brand viral. You must have an increase in the right group of followers. Take a look at the following tips to help you increase your follower numbers:  ### Piggyback On the Followers of Other Users in Your Niche The easiest way to get targeted followers is to follow other users’ accounts in the same niche as you. To do this, all you have to do is type in a relevant hashtag in your niche on the Search page. Then, choose the top hashtag and view the top posts for that corresponding hashtag.  Click on one of the photos in the top posts and visit the owner of those photos. View the user’s followers, and follow these accounts.  ### Like and Comment All You Can Doing this is one of the best ways to land on the radar of a potential audience, and it’s pretty simple.  To do this, simply type in another relevant hashtag to your brand on Instagram’s search bar. Look for promising and significant accounts, view their profiles, like their postings and other content, and leave comments. The best way to do this is by liking and commenting on at least three good photos.  It may be easy to do, but it can positively impact your numbers, increasing your followers.  ### Consistently Post Every Day Consistency is key, and your content greatly impacts how your audience interacts and sees your brand. If you don’t constantly post every day, the likelihood of losing your followers increases, and you won’t be able to attract and reach a new audience.  Remember that Instagram has preferred times and days for your posts. You can always analyze when this is based on your audience or follow the [general rule of posting](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2019/06/24/the-best-time-to-post-on-instagram/?sh=223bb1cee04b).  ### Don’t Forget Relevant Hashtags. If Google has keywords, Instagram has hashtags. Hashtags are relevant words or phrases used for your audience to reach your content easily. You have to use an appropriate amount of hashtags in every post. Posts with hashtags are more likely to have a good like and follower ratio than those without.  However, remember that spamming your posts with hashtags can reduce your content engagement. Instagram can view your post as spam. Generally, using five to ten hashtags is fine.  ## Only Publish Good Quality Content Good quality content is essential in maintaining your follower count. When your content has substance, the old and new audiences are more likely to come back and revisit your profile. Followers coming back to check out more content from your brand assures you that effective Instagram growth is happening on your profile. To be consistent and become even better at posting the [perfect content for your brand](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-pr-for-your-brand/), here are the following tips you can follow: 1. Focus on your target audience and know what they want.  2. Decide how you can engage your followers with your posts. 3. Publish consistently with all the posts having aligned and organized content. ## Pick It Up With Other Influencers Partnering with influencers on Instagram is a good way to achieve the growth you want for your brand. It’s always nice to establish a good relationship with these people because they can tremendously help drive success to your business.  If you can catch the attention of a famous influencer on Instagram, go for it. There are also micro-influencers dominating the world of Instagram. You can also partner with them, and they can also provide you with the benefits and success that major influencers can give you.  Here are some of the reasons why picking it up and collaborating with micro-influencers is also a good idea: - You may partner with them at a lower cost than major influencers. - Micro-influencers are trusted more and have better authority within their network. - Their audiences are commonly hyper-engaged. ## It’s All About Brand Awareness Your brand becoming known to a wider audience ensures the success of your Instagram growth. Remember that people prefer a brand-centric business rather than a product-centric one because it’s less promotional. You will more likely lose followers when your post is too promotional.  Increasing your brand awareness without posting promotional posts has the following benefits: - Makes your brand more competitive and increases your position in the market - It can positively impact your sales because more people are more aware of your brand - More authentic as you build the image of your brand in the minds of your audience - Better brand equity Focus on making your brand more known to a broader audience, and you are guaranteed successful Instagram growth.  ### Create Your Branded Hashtags With Instagrams, hashtags are the way to go. When your branded hashtag becomes viral, your brand reaches more people, and they will likely come back to your page because your hashtag stuck to their minds.  When you create branded hashtags, you allow your brand to become permanent on social media. It’s like letting everyone know that you’re in it in the long run.  So, how do you create effective branded hashtags for your business? Check out these tips: 1\. Take a look at the hashtags of your competition to give you an idea of what keywords are relevant and can help increase your brand reach. 2\. Look at what hashtags your top followers are using. These hashtags are commonly what you should use, and simply tweak some words to make them your own.  ## Enhance and Optimize Your Profile Optimizing your profile is essential so that Google indexes your content and Instagram account. To help in optimization, here are a few ways that can help you: 1. Utilize the geotagging option 2. Ensure your profile has complete details, including a profile name, bio, username, and links to your other assets online. 3. Your profile information and content should have keywords. 4. Social sharing across all your online channels can also help improve your ranking on Google search. ## Final Say Growth hacking is an easy and simple technique you can always try out to increase your brand’s reach and audience engagement. It’s not some secret recipe you need to master to be good at it; growth hacking is readily available, and it’s the perfect technique you can use for your business’s benefit. In the comment section below, share your growth hacking story and let me know how it impacted your business! Liked this article? Know more about Digital Marketing and SEO by reading the insightful articles below: - [How To Do Digital Marketing: A Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/)  - [5 Digital Marketing Ideas To Consider During The COVID-19 Pandemic](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-digital-marketing-ideas-to-consider-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - [How to use SEO to Build Your Brand Authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What is Brand Equity and How Do You Build It? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/ Published: 2022-02-13 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Business TL;DR: However in 2019, Amazon overtook the first place on the list, and just the Amazon brand is valued at $315.5 billion dollars with an increase of 52% from the previous year. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Have you ever tried a certain product that is not well-known, but it was so good that you kept wondering [why this product is not more famous](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/)? The answer is **brand equity**. Most people will choose brands that they are familiar with when it comes to picking any type of product. For example, if you want to buy really good sneakers, you’ll probably go for Nike, Adidas, Jordan, Puma, and not choose some of the new shoe brands like Koio, Vessi, Suavs, and other brands that started in the past few years. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fxSOW_4gi41xxGrJ0FP3gSaS5IpvKUqVJQ6V6YhYDVPWoc7Ym-WZsyrQrJe2RZAuepEw7OjEN4rN0YAg3tHVXKkFZyRiqOP1wePGcUiSoEUb7RYKcuUnVgOgERa03XfkQdr2wZBh) The point is, they might offer the same or even better quality and functionality, but their brand is unknown to the customers and hence they have no trust in it. I have always found this to be quite an interesting topic. If a friend tells you that they have a pleasant experience with a famous brand, you’re more likely to believe them than if they say the same thing about a brand you’re just hearing of. And this is not illogical; we think that because those brands are so successful and everybody knows them, they must be doing something right, no? And they definitely are. These brands [spent years](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) and years in **building their brand equities** so now people would have high trust and loyalty to those brands. So, in short, brand equity is the extra value that the brand brings in the eyes of the customers. For a more thorough explanation, let’s dive deeper. ## Brand Equity Meaning Brand equity refers to the value that a company can get from a customer’s positive associations with its brand, rather than from the product or service itself. The idea is that the owner of the company behind the brand can earn more money (i.e. charge premium rates) based on the fact that the brand is positively perceived and recognized. In this case, consumers believe that a certain product from a recognized brand is better than those with not so well-known names. Beliefs like that increase the value of the said brand. And of course, this is a very positive thing for any company. For the past 12 years until last year, Google and Apple held the first place interchangeably on the list of the world’s most valuable brands. However in 2019, Amazon overtook the first place on the list, and just the Amazon brand is [valued at $315.5 billion dollars](https://www.cnbc.com/2019/06/11/amazon-beats-apple-and-google-to-become-the-worlds-most-valuable-brand.html) with an increase of 52% from the previous year. Apple took second place with a brand value of $309.5 billion and Google came in third place with $309 billion.  *Related:* [*How did Google/Alphabet monetize that brand equity*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/)*?*  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mcQU98ssadHkYyDkIR4DAOP15kSRgHARPWuQvMHFbgj8wkXM3Oj_cvzXa7ZAqwxSAd1wf2G6Wzhk1vuG5QOJiKMglJr8slW8ophVf1s6NTtf0TjMgWBNkxj6IgWr11qY_aX0_DSV) This rise in the brand equity of Amazon happened because Amazon is selling a lot of different services. They included investments in some pretty interesting areas like the self-driving car start-up Aurora, the Rivian company for electric trucks, their airplane business Amazon Air, PillPack online pharmacy, Deliveroo food delivery company, and other investments. This rapid growth in brand equity is also due to the fact that in today’s society brands are less belonging to one category or industry, and the boundaries are getting blurry. Offering a range of services and dipping the toe in many industries is what is characteristically about these brand equity giants. If you’re wondering why they are able to do this so successfully, the answer is pretty simple. If a company that has an already strong brand equity value [wants to start selling](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) something else entirely and uses the same brand name, chances of success are much higher. Consumers will attribute the positive perceptions of the brand to the new product even though they have never been in touch with it, simply because they have been in touch with other products by that same brand. This is why many companies are feeling keener on taking the risk and broadening their product or service varieties. Even though brand equity is a simple concept to comprehend, building the actual brand equity can be a very difficult task that takes many years of hard work, top-notch marketing, and patience. ## Main elements of brand equity ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fD4PpHEg2kESl9UenGcfy0BJryK4uDbIdxi-1p2u26tRM4ynI7YJWWfg_eIQhBrZYshP0q_PuEl_R7o1Efjw1M4MEXNaZreIRWvIYLMEAd6p-FkGBmcYUnowJqDQMokis8N9-LK8) There are five main elements of brand equity: ### 1\. Brand Awareness — you can’t build equity if people are not aware of the products that you’re offering and a [unique brand personality](https://flux.la/spice-up-your-brand-with-a-unique-personality/). Brand awareness means that the customers know that your brand exists and they know what type of brand it is.  There are [*four levels* of awareness](http://www.pcesystems.co.uk/awareness_levels.html) among the customers and those are reminding the customers that the brand exists and the category in which it does, then aided recall when the customer can recognize the brand in a list of same category brands, and unaided recall is when the customer knows the brand by himself.  Beyond these, the highest form of awareness is when your brand is the first brand that pops into the mind of the consumer when the category is mentioned or top-of-mind recall. ### 2\. Brand Associations A brand association simply means anything that the customer has in their memory about the particular brand.  The way these associations are formed is by the quality of the products or services, the way the organization and the employees interact, the marketing of the brand, the prices of the products or services, the categories in which the brands’ products or services are into, and many more things.  Even things like the way the products are displayed in the stores, which celebrities are attributed to the brand, what the publicity is, what does the competition offer, what people hear about the brand from word-of-mouth, etc. can impact these associations with the brand.  There are many other things that can have an impact on the customers and it can go into very little detail.  The associations of the consumers are evolving and increasing with every single time they come in touch with the brand. ### 3\. Perceived quality One of the brand associations that I mentioned in Brand Associations is perceived quality. If you’re wondering why I am talking about it again, it is because of its great importance. It deserves to be distinguished as a separate element of brand equity.  Perceived quality means the perception about the quality of the brand in general that the customer has in their mind. In order to construct these perceptions, customers take into consideration parameters about the brand performance that are important to them personally.  In this case, quality is a perception and it depends on individual experiences and judgments. And we all know that those can vary a lot.  One of the most important things where perceived quality is taken into consideration is the price of the brand.  Those perceptions can influence the prices of the products or services to a great extent. The higher the quality, the higher the prices people are ready to pay. This is something we aimed to do when we launched my [ecommerce site Flux Chargers](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers).  ### 4\. Brand Loyalty  is one of the things that are extremely important when it comes to brand equity. It means a customer that has a long-term relationship in picking this particular brand over and over again when he has many alternatives. We can say that it means repetitive buying behavior, however, this is more in a traditional sense.  For example, if you buy Converse and you like them, you can buy them for the rest of your life and they can be a part of your style.  But when it comes to very high-price goods like a car or a home, the repetition is more unlikely to happen. In this case, brand loyalty is about the recommendations of those loyal customers to everybody they know.  This can be very important since the best advertising is word-of-mouth. Brand loyalty is usually considered to be the most important element of brand equity because it has the power to span over long periods of time and spread onto other people.  Another advantage here is that there is almost no need for advertising to this group of people, and there is a chance of introducing more products that will be aimed towards the loyal consumers successfully. ### 5\. Proprietary Brand Assets This element is often not included in the brand equity elements, but it can be an important one regardless.  What this means is that all the patents, trademarks or channel relationships are very valuable especially when it comes to preventing competition from stealing competitive advantages and stealing for your company.  With that, they are prohibited from stealing your loyal customers as well. Sometimes slapping a SUPREME logo one anything is all you need.  ## 4 steps to build your brand equity By now, building your brand equity is probably something that you’re thinking about doing. But as I previously mentioned, it is not an easy task. It takes a lot of defining, organizing, and persisting in order to move from a dead point. ### 1\. Build brand awareness Brand awareness was the first main element of the main equity. That is why it is crucial that you start there when it comes to building your own brand equity. The idea is that you have to make your brand recognizable by your target customers. This can be a difficult task for small and medium businesses since they are generally a lot less recognizable among the customers. However, there are some things that you can do to get the ball rolling: - Pick a logo that is easily remembered and use it consistently without changes - Make sure that you provide excellent customer service so your customers have positive attributes to your brand - Add some emotional story behind your brand or a company that will touch human emotions -  Make sure your brand represents products or services that are ahead of your industries’ competitors - Keep providing value through your products and services  There are many strategies that you can use for spreading awareness of your brand. Using e-mails, newsletters, [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), [social media marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/), is a good tactic to engage your target customers and to get them familiarized with the brand and its story. Also, it is a good way to re-remind them of the brand, making the attributes stronger and the awareness more spread out. The types of tactics that you will use have to be tailored to your target audience and their behaviors. Just make sure to use consistent and identical messaging on all channels as to not confuse the customers with the messaging. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mC9F9pkOIPCOZMryMKJikXgMYNwTYUSoH8xf9bmfVN_Q3PQawjXBqmhkjahZXqj6Rx5SciNNzk6g8hI80LrGiIUrfnFLDLM8Z3xTl4gKWGsFg0G63C9NyO32jSkX6jiCGWsVWfsY) ### 2\. Pay attention to the purpose behind your brand You can have a very good product that meets the needs of the customers, but if you fail to communicate that properly then you’re not going to succeed in building brand equity. When you are working on the meaning, you also have to think about the social and psychological aspects of it. This means that having a useful product is amazing, but in order to take it to another level, you have to genuinely commit to some social and environmental aspects. These types of things are what speak to customers and what makes them choose one product or service over another one that is just as functional. People who share values such as sustainably, or helping others, or gender equality, or helping impoverished regions, will genuinely connect to your brand and move closer to loyalty. And those types of people are the ones that will be your advocates and spread the good word about your brand. If we take Amazon, for example, 33% of their customers see the brand as environmentally responsible. They have a thoroughly [dedicated hub](https://www.aboutamazon.com/sustainability) where they explain all the ways in which the company is sustainable. This means that Amazon is in touch with what’s happening with the world, and the consumers respect that. After all, [88% of business school students](https://ssir.org/articles/entry/the_next_phase_of_business_sustainability) put environmental issues in the first place of their priority list when it comes to learning, and 67% are planning to work in environmentally sustainable companies in their future. ### 3\. Take notice of the response Your customers will respond to your brand through their own judgments and feelings. The judgments are in connection to quality, capability, relevancy, need satisfaction, brand superiority, etc. Feelings include excitement, social approval, security, peer approval, trust, fun, warmth, etc. The goal is to maintain both of these as much as you can. Take notice of how your customers respond to your brand in terms of judgment and feelings, and try to reshape the image if it’s the wrong one. ### 4\. Build a good relationship with your customers This level is what it’s all about. Achieving a strong relationship with your customers where they [trust your brand](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/) and are loyal to it can be very powerful. However, I don’t need to stress how difficult it is to achieve and maintain. You have to build a bond with the customers that are psychological. When they are here on this level, they are going to make repeated purchases and have a feeling of attachment with your brand. They can feel like they are a part of a special community and they can be very engaged with your brand spreading the good word because they believe in the brand. This is the most valuable weapon that any brand can possess. ## Measuring the brand equity Once you obtained all the previous levels of building your brand equity model, you want to have a way of [measuring](https://www.campaigndrive.com/blog/measure-brand-equity) your success. ### Measuring brand awareness - Focus groups, surveys, interviews - Web traffic stats - Social media mentions and reviews -  Search volume for the brand or products/services ### Measuring brand preference - Through brand relevance (how relevant your brand is compared to competitors and offers unique solutions) -  Through accessibility (how accessible your products/services are) -  Through forming emotional connections - Through measuring brand value (what prices are your customers willing to pay for your products/services) ### Measuring financial metrics -  Price premium over the competition - Rate of sustained growth -  Average transaction value - Customer lifetime value ## Bottom line Brand equity is among the most valuable moats a company can have, as it’s not easily replicable.  For instance, even if there’s an exact iPhone clone with better features, most of us will probably still prefer to purchase the Apple iPhone.  The way to build your brand equity is 1) defining what you stand for 2) delivering on that promise 3) reminding your customers about your brand over time 4) build an experience so that customers refer you to others.  If you liked this post and want to get started on implementing some of the strategies for building brand awareness, then check these: - [My best SEO guide ever](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/)! - [6 ways to combine email and social media marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) - [The best SEO tools on the market](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) Leave a comment letting me know what you’d like me to cover next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Generating Leads With OptinMonster: May 2026 Review Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/optinmonster-review/ Published: 2022-02-09 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: About 7 out of 10 Gen Z’ers receive 20 or fewer emails per day, and due to that, your emails garner much more attention than the normal. Do not discount the power of emails as a marketing tool. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *This post contains affiliate links for which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* As a marketer, email is one of my most used mediums [to drive conversions](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/). They are relatively cheap and can reach thousands of users all at once.  Your subscriber list is your [golden goose](https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogerdooley/2020/05/04/email-marketing/#382b91593711), your primary source of sales. That is why you have to take care of your existing audience so they won’t leave.  But what about growing them? If your subscriber base stays stagnant, then you won’t generate more sales than the last time.  About [7 out of 10](https://www.campaignmonitor.com/resources/guides/guide-to-gen-z-marketing-2019/) Gen Z’ers receive 20 or fewer emails per day, and due to that, your emails garner much more attention than the normal. Do not discount the power of emails as a marketing tool.  This is where [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) comes in as an industry leader in opt-in and converting. Here is my review of this fantastic lead-generation tool.  ## What is OptinMonster?  [OptinMonster](https://optinmonster.com/?sscid=51k4_9jo3i&SSAIDDATA=SSCID_51k4_9jo3i) prides itself as the “most powerful conversion optimization toolkit in the world.” And many users consider the tool just like that: a class-leading generation and conversion software in today’s market.  ![](/images/posts/inline/03257844-pasted-image-0-3.png) [OptinMonster](https://optinmonster.com/?sscid=51k4_9jo3i&SSAIDDATA=SSCID_51k4_9jo3i) is an all-in-one cloud-based lead generation and list-building software launched in 2013. The tool allows you to build lead capture forms and pages without the need to hire a designer and developer.  [OptinMonster](https://optinmonster.com/?sscid=51k4_9jo3i&SSAIDDATA=SSCID_51k4_9jo3i) supports the most popular types and configurations of opt-in forms.  Designed for marketers, marketing agencies, eCommerce store owners, and many small businesses, OptinMonster makes lead generation easier. Generate more website conversions, grow your email listing, and reduce, or even rid of cart abandonment through the numerous conversion techniques the tool employs.  This software readily works out of the box with the most popular websites and eCommerce platforms. Furthermore, they have more integrations with email marketing programs and services compared to their competitors.  [Also read the must have content marketing trends of 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) ## Why Do You Need OptinMonster?  [Email marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) is one of the most cost-efficient ways to build an audience and reach customers. Of course, spamming your users with unsolicited emails is probably not a wise option.  That is a reason why websites are asking whether or not they can interact with you through your email address. This process allows you to “opt-in” to their newsletters and subscriptions and removes the complications related to spamming.   The catch is this: basic email sign up forms rarely do the trick. It doesn’t really work on its own, and more often than not, users ignore these kinds of forms.  Without a lead-generation plugin or software, you will have difficulty getting recurring visitors. A cleverly-implemented and integrated one, however, can help you convert the visitors into subscribers or paying customers with relative ease.  ### Cultivate An Email List  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) helps you grow and cultivate your list of email subscribers through its attention-grabbing opt-in forms to convert visitors. ![](/images/posts/inline/d0e1ca6e-pasted-image-0-4.png) Its behavior detection feature allows you to show the right thing at the right time to users. A targeted campaign is achieving conversions because this makes the user more receptive to subscribing to an email list.  ### More Pageviews  The same targeted campaign and behavior detection rules, combined with the Yes/No feature, can help increase your page views. These features enable the redirection of your engaged users to your most visited and popular pages.  ### Lower Cart Abandonment Rates Abandoned carts are one of the most significant problems an eCommerce store owner has to face. And OptinMonster can help those owners with this problem.  ![](/images/posts/inline/cf52778b-pasted-image-0-5.png) The tool’s exit-intent feature and technology display a targeted campaign to your existing visitors and motivates them to convert some more items before finally leaving.  ### Onsite Retargeting Efforts  Traditional retargeting involves showing customized ads to the visitors that left your site, with the aim of getting them to return.  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) allows you to perform onsite retargeting efforts with your customers through personalized exit pop-ups. This is triggered at the precise moment your visitors will leave.  ## OptinMonster Features  No review is complete without outlining the tool’s most significant features. Here are some of the essential functions of the software. ### Ease Of Use  [OptinMonster’s](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) interface is one of the easiest I have tried. Other plugins and software force you to click around many browser tabs and screens to do what you want.  ![](/images/posts/inline/abb4df99-pasted-image-0-6.png) [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) puts all its functionality into one browser window, which you can navigate with the in-window tabs. It is pretty straightforward, does not look and feel cluttered, and best of all, there is never any sacrifice on the functionality; everything works and works well.  ### Wide Variety Of Opt-In Forms  Now, unless you are a web designer, there is a good chance that you don’t know how to make appealing opt-in forms. Templates are welcome in this situation, and [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) has them in spades.  ![](/images/posts/inline/9e8c0d9a-pasted-image-0-7.png) [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) will show you starter templates that you can serve as a base to your form, and you can work your way up from there.  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) has a great selection of form types designed to [boost email subscriptions](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-find-someones-email/) and signups. Form types and designs include:  1. Slide-in forms  2. Lightbox popups  3. Mobile popups  4. Floating bar opt-in forms  5. Below the content opt-ins  6. Sidebar forms  7. And many more.  ![](/images/posts/inline/6419ca05-pasted-image-0-8.png) All these forms can be customized however you like with [OptinMonster’s](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) builder. Use your very own fonts, images, text, and colors for every opt-in form you make. ### Conversion-centered Features [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) focuses on opt-in forms that actually convert. To augment this function, they have multiple sets of features in place.  ![](/images/posts/inline/e26e6122-pasted-image-0-9.png) 1. The exit-intent technology triggers when a user is about to leave your site. When a visitor clicks the ‘exit’ button, a window is shown displaying the opt-in form.  2. Page-level targeting allows you to create different opt-in forms based on the page a visitor is currently browsing.  3. The scroll based-trigger feature displays a pop-up or the opt-in form when the user has scrolled at specified points of the page or down to the bottom.  4. Time-based triggers will show a pop-up of an offer when the tool deems it the perfect time to display it to a customer.  5. Geo-location targeting are campaigns based on the geographical location of a visitor.  6. MonsterLinks Two-Step Opt-ins will allow you to display a pop-up opt-in form when a user clicks on a link or image.  7. [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) also has fullscreen welcome gates feature to grab a user’s attention quickly. You can show a full-screen call to action or an interstitial without redirecting your users to another page.  Doing it this way puts your site at less risk of getting punished or fined for using doorway pages, which Google is cracking down on.  ### Detailed Targeting Choices  One function where [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) starts to separate itself from the rest of available opt-in tools is in its targeting and triggering features. It can be as broad or as narrow as you like.  You, as a page owner, will have access to detailed and in-depth features centered around targeting a consumer, either through cookies, exit intent, or geo-location.  You can customize them further and set up specific rules for each campaign. You can even do A/B testing for the different display rules so that you can see what combination drives the most conversions.  The built-in analytics shows the results of your strategy and lets you analyze how well it is doing.   ### MonsterEffects  [Optinmonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) has a set of visual cues and effects collectively termed as MonsterEffects. They make your opt-in forms look better and more engaging.  These are CSS effects which you can add to your forms to catch the eyes of your visitors. They can lead to your forms being instantly noticed by the users. Also, these make the pop-ups more lively and may help improve the user experience.  ### Great For Multiple Websites Keep in mind that [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is a cloud-based software. This will not apply to everyone, but on the chance that you are running multiple websites, [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) allows you to view and manage all of your opt-ins from a single window and through the same interface.  This takes a great weight off of multiple-website owners.  ## OptinMonster Compared Against The Competition  In my opinion, [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is the software for generating leads and conversions. But just what makes it better than its competitors?  ### Perfect For All Businesses  It doesn’t matter whether you are a publisher, an eCommerce store, a B2B operator, or any other business owner or marketer. [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) has the features you would expect for a decent lead generation software, and more.  ### Packed With Features  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is packed to the brim with fresh and useful features for lead generation. These include: 1. An Intuitive builder  2. Smart campaign triggers, more than other lead generation software 3. Opt-in forms and campaign types  4. Behavior detection 5. Targeted campaigns  6. Quick and seamless integration with different email marketing services  7. A/B testing and results  8. Detailed stats on your lead generation campaigns  This shows that [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is not merely an opt-in form builder, but also a conversion analysis tool.  ### Ease of Use An absolute beginner can do just fine with [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572). Pointing and clicking will be perfectly fine for creating those gorgeous opt-in forms; no coding skills necessary.  A clean interface, pre-created templates, and easy integration with most email marketing solutions are added benefits.  ### Great Performance [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is a cloud-based service, and since it is hosted, it does not consume resources of the server. Your site will not be slowed down by this opt-in form and pop-up management software.  Now, those are the things that it does well in a vacuum. When compared to other lead-generation tools, how does OptinMonster stack up?  ### OptinMonster vs LeadPages  LeadPages, as a whole, cannot be really compared to [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572). LeadPages is more of a [landing page creation](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/) platform.  But they both offer ways to create opt-in forms, and that is where I will compare them.  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) blows LeadPages out of the water when it comes to built-in templates. The former has a lot more choices of available templates.  LeadPages has its drag-and-drop editor. But with [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572), you can customize the design with CSS.  Both give you two-step opt-ins, targeted and timed pop-ups, and exit intent capability, but OptinMonster gives you more control on what page the pop-ups appear.  However, I feel the [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is harder to set up than LeadPages. In my opinion, if LeadPages is already up and running, and is deeply integrated with your site, then stick with it.  If you are looking for a dedicated lead catching service, then [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is the better choice.  ### OptinMonster vs ThriveLeads  ThriveLeads supports primarily the same opt-in form types as [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) and has quite more templates available as well. The quality looks the same, but I feel while ThriveLeads has more flat and reserved styles, OptinMonster has bright designs.  ThriveLeads has [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) beat when it comes to customization. The former’s drag-and-drop editor lets you put elements anywhere you want them for a more customized arrangement.  The testing and reporting of the two are comparable enough, but ThriveLeads has an “automatic winner” function, while OptinMonster has not.  One thing OptinMonster has going for them, though, is the interface. If you are a beginner and you are both looking at the [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) and ThriveLeads interface, surely you would choose the former for its simplicity and straightforwardness.  ### OptinMonster vs. Sumo  These two are relatively the same when it comes to the things they offer, but [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) has more bang for your buck.  Sumo is a great choice when you are starting because, unlike [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572), it has a free pricing tier. When you reach 200 subscribers, however, you will have to shell out more money with Sumo. ## OptinMonster Pricing  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) has several pricing tiers, all billed annually.   ![](/images/posts/inline/59b59219-pasted-image-0-10.png) The basic plan has the standard functionalities and essential tools in a lead-generation service. The higher the tier, the more features are unlocked.  The Pro plan is their most popular tier and includes all features you can use for three different sites.  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572), as a paid solution, comes with stellar customer support through a support ticket system. The response time is fast, and their experts are well-versed in the conversion wants and needs of their consumers.  ## Bottom line Investing in a reliable lead generation and conversion tool is a requirement if you want to collect emails and turn them into paying customers. [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is not the cheapest out there, but it boasts value greater than many of its more expensive counterparts.  [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) has one of the best feature sets you can find with the price point it offers. The tool is especially more valuable for busy webmasters and owners, as you can manage all your sites within one interface.   I can say that [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572) is a worthy purchase, and adds a lot of value to your business. Growing your email list has never been easier with [OptinMonster](https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2379675&m=49337&b=514572).  And that’s it for my review of this lead-generation tool? Have you had experiences with OptinMonster, too?  What do you want to see in my next review? Comment your insights below.  Here are more reviews of my favorite tools below.  - [Honest Review of Fiverr](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/) - [My Favorite ECommerce Platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) - [Review of Ahrefs](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Referral Paths In Google Analytics: What You Can Learn? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/referral-paths-in-google-analytics/ Published: 2022-01-11 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Google Analytics is a tool that can help you understand people’s paths when they find and interact with your site. You can learn alot from getting into referral paths and Google analytics. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Referral paths allow you to optimize top pages or top results on traffic to suit business goals accordingly. Consider utilizing one of the referral tracking methods to make your work easier. Your website configuration and reporting needs could vary from a common setup, so it’s good to understand the general tracking process to ensure that your reports deliver data as expected. Take some time to familiarize yourself with your referral paths to develop your site and social networks. Also, optimize your content for accurate searches using specific keywords in the filename, alt text, or caption. Do you want to know how your customers are finding your website? You’re in luck. [Google Analytics](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2022/01/06/5-ways-teams-can-use-google-analytics-to-improve-business/) is a tool that can help you understand people’s paths when they find and interact with your site. You can learn alot from getting into referral paths and Google analytics. I will also teach you how to identify any problems or issues with specific pages on your site for a quick fix, as well as a few methods on how you can track your referrals. Anyway, let’s begin. ## What Is Google Analytics? So what is Google Analytics? Google Analytics helps users identify trends and common patterns in visitors’ website [engagement](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/). It has features that collect, analyze, monitor, report, and integrate data with other applications. This process works by including a block of JavaScript code on your website. When visitors on your website view a page, this code references a JavaScript file that executes an analytical tracking operation. The tracking operation retrieves data regarding the page request through diverse methods. It sends this collected data to the Analytics server attached to a single-pixel image request through a list of parameters. This way, you can choose how the analytics tracking is configured to best suit your website. ## What are Referral Paths? Under the topic of Google Analytics, when your [Referrals](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/12/02/just-ask-the-power-of-referrals/) are viewed from Traffic Sources, you will be able to view the main domains that bring traffic to your site and where they came from. When you click on any of these source domains, you see the specific pages where people found your links and clicked on them. While not all of the data is informative, some hold helpful information about where your traffic originates. Referral traffic is used to indicate the incoming traffic on a website from clicking on a URL on another site, called a referral path or referral site. Referring traffic always has a referrer path from which the traffic comes. Technically, any website that comes from and redirects traffic to your domain is known as a referral path. You can easily track your referral traffic by installing [Google Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-analytics-data-errors/) or other web analytics services on the internet and tag campaigns accordingly. Referral traffic or referral path is often calculated by parameters like sessions/visits collected from external sources. ## Benefits of Tracking Referrals When you track your referrals, you can use the following benefits to your advantage. - Assists in the optimization of the marketing effort and spending - Helps you understand which websites refer to which domain - You can gauge customer satisfaction and participation rate - You can monitor referral sharing and conversion rates - Indicates how visitors discovered your website - Helps prevent any referral fraud - Pinpoint any changes in sales - Adds value to your business ## How To Track Your Referrals? Setting up a referral tracking system in advance can tell you whether you’re getting the results you want. Below are the top 5 methods for tracking your referrals. ### 1\. Referral Tracking Software Using referral tracking software is the simplest way to track your referral data. Most referral software comes with a built-in setup wizard that installs the software for you and gets your program started in minutes. Sometimes, installing software requires you to specify where you want to install it, agree to the manufacturer’s terms & agreements, and include whatever else you need. But these other features are optional in most cases. You only have to enter a few basic details for using the software, and the software can set up a tracking system, track referrals, and issue rewards automatically. ### 2\. Google Analytics Google Analytics is a robust platform with a built-in attribution model that lets you track analytics and conversions on your website or page. After quickly setting it up, you’ll be able to track the entirety of actions taken on your website and predict which marketing channels are most effective.  You can easily export collected data, so you can use your filters and share insights with your team. And the best part? Google Analytics is free. You don’t have to pay for a subscription to continue using its features. ### 3\. UTM Parameters UTM parameters are the best way to monitor exactly where your traffic originates, but those features will only be available if you are the one who places the link. If someone else uses your link for whatever reason, they probably won’t tag it for you.  That’s why reviewing referral paths is a good strategy for backup to monitor links you can’t tag with UTM parameters. This technique lies somewhere between Google Analytics and paid tracking software regarding effort and difficulty level.  UTM parameters are part of a URL and are used for identifying a specific referral campaign that brings more traffic to your website. You will need Google Analytics and the Campaign URL Builder to use this method to create a unique URL for each referring customer.  This URL is what customers and clients will share with their family and friends and include parameters that track data for that specific URL. While this method is also free, it does involve more work than just using Google Analytics’ built-in attribution model.  ### 4\. Redirecting Referral Pages Most of the time, a referred potential customer will land directly on the homepage of your website and are redirected to a referral page. This instance will give you extended control over what the potential new customer or client is presented with when they visit your site.  You can highlight certain things on your website that can lead them to purchase products, services, or information. Doing so works well for [e-commerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-maximize-the-profit-potential-of-your-e-commerce-enterprise/) or buying and selling goods and services over the web, which you can do through computers, smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices.  In addition, you can purchase almost anything you can think of through e-commerce today. It can substitute for physical stores, though some businesses maintain both. Redirected referral pages usually use cookies to secure the referral back to your customer. A cookie is implanted into the browser for tracking and capturing data about the referral’s on-site actions. So even without requiring them to fill out a form, you’ll already be able to track certain information. ### 5\. Referral Form Fields When filling out a website form, you may notice many companies like to ask: “How did you hear about us?” Which is a great way to learn more about your loyal customers and a good field to include in your referral form. Although forms don’t collect much in-depth behavioral data, they’re great for starting a relationship with potential customers. (You can always follow up once someone is further along your funnel.) Referral forms are also a good alternative to tracking cookies and are particularly useful for service-based businesses that require an extra step, such as setting an appointment to complete the referral. ## Utilizing Gathered Information Identify which category, query, images, or topics increase traffic to your website. Doing so will help you discover your strongest influences. Be sure to thank any contributors and build a friendly relationship to gain a good reputation.  In addition to thanking your fellow users, patrons, or contributors, get to know what other queries and common interests they have. This information could help you build up your database and stock up on what your audiences expect from you. Analyze the data you’ve gathered and build an interesting foundation. Once you’ve implemented a good marketing strategy to drive traffic, you can replicate them in the future. ## Other Referral Paths To Investigate You are more likely to have a variety of referral paths to citate to learn more regarding the sources of your traffic, depending on how you market your website online. Here are referral paths you can check out. ### Queries and Frequently Asked Questions  If you observe traffic coming from websites like Quora or other similar websites that network a form of Question-and-Answer platform, click and scroll through to see the referral paths and find out what questions or answers conduct the most traffic. This method will help you monitor and target your activity on Question-and-Answer networks to the types of questions that will get people interested enough to visit your website. Frequently asked questions are also a great source to gather information about which topics are most interesting. You can also find FAQs on other forums and sometimes social media posts. ### Threads on Forums Suppose you are part of a forum and have a link in your forum signature. Find out which threads you commented on, or at least got involved with, lead to the most visitors, and keep participating. More interaction and referrals will boost your website’s exposure. And who knows, your site might be considered a reliable resource as time goes by. ### Categories on Dictionaries If you submit your website to directories, you can probably post a link to your site under multiple categories.  A good strategy would be to research which categories contribute the most traffic so you can aim for those specific categories on other directories to increase your potential traffic as well. Did you enjoy reading this post? Read more related topics below: - [How To Set Up Your Ecommerce Business From Scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) - [How to Increase Your Web Traffic to 250k/mo?](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) - [The Best E-Commerce Platforms in 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) Make sure to drop a comment below on which topic you’d want me to cover next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Snapchat Make Money? The 2026 Revenue Breakdown Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/ Published: 2022-01-05 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, Advertising (SEM) TL;DR: Snap makes ~$5.4B a year as of 2025. About 91% is advertising (Snap Ads + Sponsored AR Lenses + Spotlight + Discover), ~7% is the Snapchat+ subscription ($3.99/mo, ~11M subs), and the rest is AR Studio rev share, a small data-licensing line, and the dying Spectacles hardware footnote. ## Table of contents Snap, Inc. is profitable on adjusted EBITDA, hovering near break-even on GAAP, and pulling roughly **$5.4B in 2025 revenue** ([Snap Q4 2025](https://investor.snap.com/)). That's a long way from the $400M they did in 2016 — and the revenue *mix* has changed even more than the top line. This is the operator-grade 2026 breakdown of how Snap makes money: what's growing, what they killed, and what's left.
Snap, Inc.
Parent company. Owns Snapchat (the messaging + camera app), Snap AR (Lens Studio + Spectacles AR glasses), and the My AI assistant. Trades as $SNAP on NYSE.
## Where the $5.4B actually comes from
~91%
Advertising (Snap Ads + AR + Spotlight)
~7%
Snapchat+ subscription
~2%
AR Studio rev share + other
The headline: Snap is, and remains, an **ad business**. But two things are different from the 2017–2019 story you'll see in most older write-ups: 1. **Snapchat+ is now a real line.** $3.99/mo, crossed ~11M subscribers in early 2025. That's ~$400M+ ARR from subs alone — Snap's first meaningful non-ad revenue. 2. **Spotlight, not Discover, is the creator surface.** Snap retired Discover's original framing in 2024; Spotlight (their TikTok-style short-form feed) is where creator monetization happens now, and they share ad revenue with eligible creators (~$0.05 RPM as a rough 2026 floor). Let's walk each revenue line. ## 1 · Snap Ads (the bulk) The full-screen vertical ads between Stories and inside Spotlight remain Snap's biggest dollar line. Two product evolutions matter in 2026: - **First Commercial.** Six seconds of non-skippable, full-screen video at the start of a content session. Premium ad slot. - **Goal-based AI bidding.** Snap rolled out a Performance+ campaign type in 2024 that targets app installs, purchases, and lead-gen events the way Meta's Advantage+ does. Smaller advertisers can now run Snap without a media team — that's a measurable share of 2025's revenue growth. ## 2 · Sponsored AR Lenses This is the line Snap genuinely owns better than anyone. Branded AR lenses (face filters, world filters, try-on for fashion and beauty) generate the highest per-impression revenue in Snap's stack. A typical brand AR campaign in 2026 prices from ~$25k for a starter on-demand sponsored Lens to $500k+ for a high-distribution National Lens. Snap's Lens Studio (the free authoring tool, currently v5.x) crossed **3.5M registered creators** by late 2025. They're using AR as the distinctive wedge against Meta and TikTok — and it works for specific verticals (beauty, fashion, gaming, packaged goods). ## 3 · Spotlight + Discover Spotlight is Snap's vertical-video feed (think: TikTok-style For You, but inside Snapchat). Discover still exists — it's the publisher hub for outlets like Bleacher Report, Cosmopolitan, WSJ — but most of the *creator economy* activity moved to Spotlight in 2023–2024. Snap shares ad revenue with creators on Spotlight under a couple of programs:
  1. 01
    Spotlight Rewards. Bonuses for top-performing Spotlight content, paid monthly to eligible creators. Replaced the old "$1M/day" promotional pool.
  2. 02
    Mid-roll ad revenue share. Eligible Snap Stars in 26 markets get a cut of ads served in their content. Rev share rates aren't publicly broken out; community-reported RPMs hover around $0.03–$0.07.
  3. 03
    Discover Show partnerships. Publisher-tier revenue share for the older Discover surface — still material for ~50 large content brands.
## 4 · Snapchat+ subscriptions The Snapchat+ launch (June 2022) was Snap's first serious move away from ad-only. By Q1 2025, **subscribers crossed 11 million** (Snap quarterly call). At $3.99/mo, that's ~$500M ARR and growing — small but high-margin. What Snapchat+ buys you: - Pinned BFFs, custom app icons, exclusive Story Boost - Early access to AI features (custom My AI personas, expanded chat memory) - Story Reposts to Spotlight with priority distribution ## 5 · AR Studio + the long tail Smaller revenue lines worth knowing about: - **Snap AR for Enterprise.** Selling Lens Studio APIs and AR commerce solutions (virtual try-on for retailers, AR ads for brand campaigns) to enterprise customers. Material in 2025–26. - **My AI sponsored placements.** Snap's chatbot started serving brand-influenced answers in 2024 — small but growing. - **Data licensing.** Snap sells limited de-identified data products to research partners. Small. ## What Snap killed, and why You'll see older posts treat hardware (the camera glasses) and Snap Originals (scripted shows) as Snap revenue streams. They aren't anymore. The consumer camera-glasses experiment cumulatively cost Snap ~$500M between launch and the 2024 sunset, and the brand was rebooted as a developer-only AR product for Lens Studio creators. Snap Originals wound down through 2022–2023.
Used to be a thing (2016–2021)

Consumer camera-glasses hardware ($130 sunglasses with cameras), Snap Originals scripted shows, Snap Map games, Bitmoji deluxe sticker packs, the original 24-hour Story Replay credits.

Where the 2026 money is

Snap Ads (~91%), Snapchat+ ($3.99/mo), Sponsored AR Lenses, Spotlight revenue share, Lens Studio + AR Spectacles dev licensing.

## The 2026 user numbers - **Daily Active Users:** ~422M (Snap Q4 2025). - **Monthly Active Users:** ~750M+ (last disclosed range). - **Average ARPU:** ~$3.20 globally; ~$10–11 in North America (where ad CPMs are highest). - **Time spent:** ~30+ min/day for the core 13–24 cohort, lower for 25+. The user base is *not* shrinking — Snap's DAU has grown every year since 2020, even with TikTok pulling attention. They lose share-of-time, not share-of-users. ## Snap vs Meta vs TikTok — the revenue scale
Snap
  • ~$5.4B annual revenue (2025)
  • ~422M DAU
  • 91% ads / 7% subs
  • NA-skewed CPMs
vs
Meta
  • ~$165B annual revenue (FY 2024)
  • ~3.4B DAP across family
  • ~98% ads
  • WhatsApp Business + Reels growing
Snap
  • ~$5.4B
  • ~422M DAU
  • AR is the differentiator
vs
TikTok
  • ~$30B+ global revenue (est. 2025)
  • ~1.7B MAU
  • TikTok Shop GMV ~$45B
Snap is ~3% of Meta's revenue and ~18% of TikTok's. That's the scale honestly: it's a viable mid-cap social platform, not a duopoly contender. ## How Snap got here — the short timeline
  1. 2016First Spectacles release; $400M annual revenue.
  2. 2017IPO at $24B valuation. Discover ads scale.
  3. 2020Spotlight launches as TikTok response.
  4. 2022Snapchat+ launches ($3.99/mo). My AI assistant ships.
  5. 2024Performance+ Goal-Based bidding rolls out. Consumer Spectacles discontinued; dev-only AR Spectacles 5 launches.
  6. 202511M Snapchat+ subs. ~$5.4B annual revenue. Adjusted EBITDA positive every quarter.
## Bottom line Snap makes money the way every consumer-internet company does: ads. What's different in 2026 is the **shape** of the ad business (Goal-Based AI bidding for SMB demand + Sponsored AR Lenses as a real moat) and the **start** of a subscription business (Snapchat+ at $400M+ ARR is small but high-margin). Discover is decreasingly the creator surface. Spotlight is where the next billion in creator-share dollars gets paid out. If you're building on Snap in 2026 — as an advertiser, a creator, or someone building Lens Studio AR — that's the operator-grade lay of the land. > Related: [How Facebook makes 99% of its money](/how-does-facebook-make-money/) · [How Instagram makes money](/how-does-instagram-make-money/) · [How TikTok actually monetizes Shop](/tiktok-shop-everything-you-need-to-know-about-it/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top WordPress Booking Plugins: Which One Should You Choose? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-wordpress-booking-plugins/ Published: 2022-01-04 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: Read on for an in-depth look at some of the best WordPress booking plugins out there, as well as how to choose which ones are right for your needs! ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Some WordPress plugins let you seamlessly incorporate a variety of bookings. There are a ton of plugins that can create availability calendars and let your users check into their accommodations with just one click.   Updating reservations is cumbersome; automating it will give you more time to do other important things. When you’re launching your new WordPress website, it can be very easy to overlook the importance of booking plugins. Booking plugins allow you to manage appointments and payments all in one place, eliminating the need to create and pay for multiple accounts with various platforms and applications.  Read on for an in-depth look at some of the best WordPress booking plugins out there, as well as how to choose which ones are right for your needs! ## Amelia The Amelia plugin allows you to seamlessly add booking capabilities to your website without any additional work.  It’s an intuitive system, and its plugins are regularly updated to ensure it remains compatible with various devices, browsers, and hosting environments.  I highly recommend Amelia if you’re looking for a booking plugin that doesn’t require much effort or upkeep. It currently has a [rating of 4.7](https://www.capterra.com/p/200413/Amelia/) on capture. ### Features #### Customized schedule for services Use full planning flexibility with the user-defined worklist feature. Each service and employee combination has its own set of working hours and breaks. #### Recurring Appointments Scheduling This feature ensures your clients will turn into your returning clients by allowing them to plan repeating arrangements. Pick whether your arrangement repeats every day, week after week, month to month, or yearly. Keep up with your clients’ satisfaction regularly. #### WooCommerce Integration Manage your taxes, invoices, and payments using the easy-to-use Amelia Wocommerce native integration. #### Booking Form Custom Fields Build the booking structure to match your business best – arrange the custom fields (checkboxes, text areas, and so forth) to gather any extra essential data from your clients. #### Native Zoom Integration You can connect your Zoom account to Amelia with a click of a button. Customers can now book appointments and events online and receive links in notifications to access them. This integration can save you a lot of time and reduce no-shows. #### Integrated with Google Meet Allow customers to schedule online virtual meetings, online book events, and receive instant confirmation and access links in Google Meet notifications. #### **Pricing** $59 for 1 domain a year. ## WooCommerce Bookings With [WooCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/woocommerce-vs-shopify/), you can set up a booking service that is fully integrated with your online store. Your customers will be able to choose from various room options, check availability and make payments securely without ever leaving your site. Plus, since all of your customer data is stored in one central location, getting up and running only takes a few minutes. And with step-by-step [documentation](https://woocommerce.com/documentation/plugins/woocommerce/woocommerce-extensions/woocommerce-bookings/developer-docs-bookings/) available on their website, building an online booking facility has never been easier! ### Features #### Book One-on-One Appointments or Multi-person Events This feature allows you to set the number of participants you want. You can limit booking and make it so that you can attend to your clients one at a time. You could also have more than one person allowed to make reservations. #### Offer Special Pricing for Groups, Days, or Individuals This plugin allows you to offer your clients or people booking multiple slots discounts. You can reduce the prices for early birds; you could increase the price on certain days or run a kids’ special discount. Freely customize your pricing as you like. #### Show Availability in the Customer’s Time Zone Whether you host a service online or you’re shipping goods to clients, this plugin lets you show your time availability in the client’s local time zone. So, they can book a time that’d be convenient for them. It doesn’t matter if the bookings come from San Francisco, New Zealand, or Brazil; they’d always be within the hours you have set. #### Require Confirmation, Offer Free Cancellations – It’s All up to You Easily customize and allow your clients to cancel their bookings when they want. You can also set confirmations to allow yourself time to review bookings before approving them as official. Reminders can also be sent out to mitigate no-show-up issues. #### **Pricing** $249 Billed annually. ## Bookly Bookly is a free WordPress plugin that lets you set up and accept bookings on your websites. The plugin is easily customizable as it allows you to set your fees, prices, and currency. You can also decide how long you’ll keep bookings on hold. Also, Bookly allows you to add confirmation messages and send reminders before events occur. You can also manage your client base, services, booking calendar and automate your reservation system. ### Features 1. You get various settings for SMS and email notifications 2. Bookly can be customized for any period of service from 5 minutes to 7 days 3. Ability to create an unlimited number of booking forms on your website 4. Fast online booking with an intuitive form that thousands of companies have tested 5. It only takes a few minutes to book the service you provide #### **Pricing** Regular price: $0. Pro price: $89. ## Booking Calendar The booking calendar is a simple plugin that you can use on your website to give your visitors a fast and straightforward way to book time with you or someone in your organization. When they click on an available date, the clients will be taken to a simple form where they can fill out all of their details, pay securely online and send an email to confirm. Their name will also appear on a waitlist until you’ve confirmed their booking – so only those people who confirm will be added to your calendar. ### Features 1. Customizable Form and Calendar 2. Intuitive and Powerful Admin Panel 3. Online Payment 4. Email Templates 5. Advanced Costs and Rates 6. Search Availability 7. Multilingual Option #### **Pricing** Free. ## StartBooking StartBooking allows your clients the opportunity to plan arrangements, pursue classes, and make changes to their appointments straightforwardly on your site. Everything related to booking on your website can be customized according to your needs. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about updates and compatibility because StartBooking makes sure that they remain compatible with other plugins. You can change fonts, colors, styles, and designs without breaking things. It also has an easy-to-use interface so that you won’t get stuck somewhere along the way. ### Features 1. Scheduling & Appointments 2. Classes & Group Bookings 3. Customer Relationship Management 4. Powerful Integrations 5. Online Payments 6. Create customer accounts 7. SMS notifications #### **Pricing** Limited: $0/month. Basic: $25/month. Business: $75/month. ## BirchPress The [BirchPress Scheduler](https://www.birchpress.com/) plugin is a popular way to add and manage bookings on your website easily.  From managing one-off classes at your studio or gym to monthly recurring appointments with clients or patients — it’s a great all-in-one booking tool! You can adapt it to fit your needs with simple controls and customization options. It offers a variety of payment gateways and integration with popular apps like Google Calendar(only in the business plan), giving you room to improve as your business grows. It’s perfect for service-based businesses that would benefit from easy scheduling tools on their sites like massage therapists, holistic wellness providers, spas, salons, and hair salons, to name a few. ### Features 1. Calendar Sync 2. Email notifications and reminders 3. Accepts Online Payment 4. It is Developer Friendly 5. Customizable Booking Form #### **Pricing** Personal: $99/per site. Business: $199/per site. Business+: $249/per site. ## What I Looked At To Find The Best WordPress Booking Plugins Many Booking plugins are available in the [WordPress plugin](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/07/01/how-many-wordpress-plugins-are-too-many/?sh=79bbb91a2663) directory, so it’s hard to find what you want with ease. I had an idea of what I was looking for in terms of functionality and features, so that narrowed down my choices quite a bit. In addition to that, there were quite a few things to consider when picking out which booking plugins were better than others. ### Payment options for appointments  I wanted to use a plugin compatible with my favorite payment processors, including PayPal and Stripe. This would make setting up appointment payments much easier and less complicated. ### A customizable calendar  The ability to customize my online calendar was extremely important to me. I wanted to look professional and incorporate other features into my website. This way, it’s easier for clients to keep track of upcoming appointments and book with ease. ### Mobile-friendly  This was a necessity. My website must be mobile-friendly, which means it should be viewed properly on any device. I wanted my clients to schedule appointments on their smartphones and tablets too. ## Bottom line When it comes to finding [WordPress plugins](https://www.forbes.com/sites/steveolenski/2016/05/03/10-most-important-wordpress-plugins/) specifically designed for booking your services online, dozens of options are available. By exploring all of the options we’ve discussed, you’ll be able to find a combination of plugins that meets your unique needs. The first step is to look at each plugin individually and see what features they offer. Some plugins may have everything you need; others require purchasing premium add-ons. Let me know in the comments below which  Booking plugin you’d be choosing. Liked the post? Read more to learn about the tools that could help your business. - [Top 8 Facebook Ads Tools That Can Help You As A Marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-facebook-ads-tools-that-can-help-you-as-a-marketer/) - [Review Of 15 Best WordPress Plugins in 2021: Features & Plans](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-wordpress-plugins/) - [How To Speed Up WordPress Site? Effective Tips & Tricks](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-speed-up-wordpress-site/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Personal Finance 101 – Everything You Need to Know About Money Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/personal-finance-101/ Published: 2021-12-29 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: SEO, finance, money, personal finance TL;DR: If your credit line is $10k and you spent $4k, that is a 40% utilization rate. Most people cite a 30% or less credit utilization rate to be ideal) 3. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This is no professional financial or investing advice, the products, stocks, and services recommended are just the ones I personally chose after spending hours of research. You can (and should) do your own research before following what I’ve outlined here. Use this blog post as a starting point in your journey towards financial literacy.*  *—* When I came to the US at age 17, I barely knew the difference between a checking account and a savings account. It took me almost 5 years to understand index funds, how to maximize my credit card points for traveling, and how to open my retirement account or get a mortgage.  I wrote this guide for my 17-yr old self and hope it’s valuable for you, wherever you are in your financial literacy journey.   Also remember that the goal is not to be the richest guy in the graveyard but rather live a life full or rich experiences (great friends, travels, food). The aim to become more financially literate should be so that you can contribute more to your family, your community and make a larger impact in the world. Hope you agree.  ## Credit Cards You’ve probably heard (from your parents or maybe someone else) that you shouldn’t incur in any credit card debt. This is not necessarily good advice. You shouldn’t incur in credit card debt you *can’t repay.*  **Why is it better to use a credit card instead of a debit card?** Because credit cards often offer higher purchase protection, give you sign-up bonuses and give you points that you can redeem for cash, travels and other experiences.  An additional benefit of using a credit card is that it helps you build credit score, which helps later on when you are looking to get a mortgage and are looking for a cheap interest rate.  **What is the credit score?** It is a number between 300 and 850 that helps loaning agencies understand how good you are at repaying your debt. (The higher your score, the better).  Your credit score (also known as FICO score) is composed of the following 5 factors: 1. 35% is your payment history (late payments, revolving debt, etc) 2. 30% is your credit utilization (in other words how much % of your available money have you borrowed. If your credit line is $10k and you spent $4k, that is a 40% utilization rate. Most people cite a 30% or less credit utilization rate to be ideal) 3. 15% is the length of your credit history (how long you have you had your accounts open and active) 4. 10% is the types of credit used (having a mortgage, student loan and credit cards mix is good) 5. 10% is due to new credit (how many new accounts you have and how many credit score inquiries you’ve made recently) **Which credit cards should I use?** If you are a student or new to credit cards, you might want to look into credit cards with **no** annual fees (usually $99). You could also sort by different metrics that are important to you such as no international transaction fees or high sign-up bonuses. A good website to find a credit card to compare is [NerdWallet](https://www.nerdwallet.com/credit-cards).  **How I use my credit card(s)**  I pay everything I can with my credit cards (groceries, amazon, flights) because this earns me points or cashback.  I also build a strong credit score by having 2-3 credit cards that I use for different occasions. Remember that credit mix is important.  I have all my credit card payments automated with a direct withdrawal from my checkings/savings account so I never miss a payment. (This is very easy to set up with your bank) ## Savings and checking accounts Since this is a Finance 101, I want to make sure I clarify the difference between a savings and checking account.  A checking account is a place where you store money for everyday transactions (Pro tip: I only use it for my Venmo account or any random utilities, everything else is paid with my credit card and later repaid from my savings). I also use this account with my debit card if I ever need to withdraw money from an ATM.  A savings account is intended for the money you want to stash away for 6-9+ months. Here’s is where I keep some money in case I were to lose my job, had a medical emergency or were saving to buy a house or car.  Checking accounts usually pay little to no interest, whereas savings pay a little more (but still not enough).  Checkings usually let you withdraw money as many times as you need, savings only lets you do 3-6 withdrawals each month.  Both your checking and savings accounts might have some minimum balances you need to keep in order to avoid monthly fees.  **Which bank to choose** If you were like me a few years ago, you probably thought that your account at Bank of America or Chase was good.   However, it turns out there are better places to store money.  Enter **online banks**.  Online banks pay slightly higher interest because they don’t need to deal with the overhead of having a staff, physical offices or many of the bells-and-whistles of traditional brick-and-mortar banks.  Out of all the savings account out there, you should pick a *High Yield Savings account*.  The best savings accounts can be found [here](https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/banking/best-high-yield-online-savings-accounts/).  At the time of this writing, Marcus.com pays the higher interest (1.70%). Compare that to Bank of America’s 0.04% (~43x higher).  **How I have my banking structured** 1. High Yield Savings Account at Marcus.com -> because it simply pays the highest interest rate (from this account I pay my credit card debt or tuition) 2. Checking Account at Schwab -> because I occasionally need to write a check, or present a financial statement and Marcus can’t do it. Schwab lets me withdraw money from any ATM worldwide for free.  ### Certificate of Deposit If you won’t need the money for 9, 12, 24+ months and want to earn a much better interest rate than with a Savings account, you can also put your money in a Certificate of Deposit (CD).  The only caveat with a CD is that you can’t withdraw the money until your term is finished, or else you will incur early withdrawal fees.  The best rates for CDs can be found [here](https://www.bankrate.com/cd.aspx).  Here Marcus.com’s CDs are currently paying 0.55% for 12 months.  (keep reading to find out how to potentially make even more than ~1% a year on your money) ## Investing As cool as a High Yield Savings account might have sounded in the previous section with its whooping 1% interest rate, it turns out that this is a lackadaisical attempt at growing your money. Inflation (which is defined as the % increase in the cost of goods and services from one period to another) has been on [average 3.18% from 1913 to 2015](https://inflationdata.com/Inflation/Inflation/DecadeInflation.asp). In 2020-2021, the [amount of money printed](https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/money-printing-and-inflation%3A-covid-cryptocurrencies-and-more) by the Fed contributed to about a 15% inflation.  That means that even if you have found the highest-paying savings account out there, your money is still not beating inflation. This means that a year from now, you will be able to buy less goods with your money, effectively meaning that you have less buying power (i.e. money).  Therefore, you need a different strategy to grow your money.  Enter **investing**.  Investing is a great way to grow your money consistently. There are a few topics that we should cover before diving into how to structure your investments.  If you are early in your career (20s) then you can afford to be rather aggressive with your investments (i.e. heavier investments in stocks) with the goal of maximizing returns, if you are nearing retirement then you should be more careful with your money as there are not many years left to make up for any loses.  ### What are stocks? Stocks represent a piece of ownership in a company. The total worth of a company (also known as its market cap) is the amount of shares outstanding times the price of each share.  By buying a stock, you assume the risk of betting on that company and hoping that it grows in the future.  There are two ways of making money with a stock: 1. Buying low and selling high (i.e. buy AAPL at $50, sell at $100) 2. Selling high and buying low (also called shorting, where you borrow someone else’s stock and sell it hoping that the price goes lower, so then later you can buy the same stock at a cheaper price and return it to the person you borrowed it from) Additionally, there are many stocks that pay dividends to their shareholders.  We can further subdivide stocks into: - Small cap stocks: companies with less than $2B in market cap, risky but with high growth potential.  - Mid cap stocks: companies with $2B to $10B in market cap - Large cap stocks: companies with $10B+ in market cap, generally more stable, mature and growing slowly.  **Where can you buy stocks?** Most of the stocks transactions are done through a broker, someone that matches a buyer with a seller. I use [Robinhood](https://share.robinhood.com/marcelr67) because it has no transaction fees. Sign up with [this link](https://share.robinhood.com/marcelr67) and get a free stock. (You can also read the post I wrote about [Vlad Tenev](https://alejandrorioja.com/blog/robinhoods-ceo-vlad-tenev-shares-life-experiences-stock-picks-advice/), the CEO of Robinhood) **How to pick stocks?** Many of the world’s best investors (Warren Buffet, John Bogle, Peter Lynch, Carl Icahn) suggest the simplest of approaches to picking stocks: simply bet on the market. By betting on the market you spread your risk across many companies and you are not as exposed to the success or failure of any one company. You can do this by buying what’s called an ETF.  ### Index Funds or ETFs ETFs (or exchange-traded funds) are a basket of stocks that have a common theme. For instance, a Tech ETF invests in all tech stocks, the SP500 ETF ($IVV) invests in the largest 500 companies in the US.  Benefits of index funds: broad market exposure, low fees, and low portfolio turnover. Most if not all ETFs are managed by algorithms.  ### Mutual Funds Mutual Funds are funds that are managed by a money manager. Most money managers (whose entire job is to analyze the market day in and day out) fail to consistently beat the market.  **Why you shouldn’t pick a mutual fund** First, there are excessive fees that go beyond the “1%” management fee advertised: rebalancing, additional loads, etc.  Second, there isn’t any clear historical data that shows that *in the long run* mutual funds outperform the market’s 9% annualized return.  I can confirm that this has been the case for me as well (i.e. my money manager underperforms the market).  **If you want to dabble in stock picking** There are 2 main ways: Fundamental and Technical Analysis. Fundamental analysis is studying the company’s “fundamentals”, i.e. their growth rate, sales, profitability, leadership, future cash flows, etc.  Technical analysis is studying the company’s price action and how it compares to common price patterns, i.e. are we in bullish or bearish territory, what are support/resistance levels, etc.  I try to understand the intrinsic value of the company and its fundamentals. For instance, do I think [Snap has the potential to grow](https://alejandrorioja.com/blog/does-snapchat-make-money/) with their current ideas? No. (Sorry, Evan Spiegel). Facebook has been successfully copying their features and their user base is much larger.  I am bullish on SHOP (Shopify), because I believe the ecommerce market will continue to grow with many more solo-entrepreneurs launching their own business. I also draw my conclusions from having used their platform to launch my ecommerce brand [Flux Chargers](http://fluxchargers.com/) into a [$50k-100k/mo business](https://alejandrorioja.com/blog/how-to-build-profitable-business/), and also by having chatted with many other up-and-coming entrepreneurs.  I am also bullish on AMD (Advanced Micro Devices), NVDA (Nvidia), MU (Micron Technology), because I worked at [Inston](http://instoninc.com/) which was developing magnetic memories and I have extensively studied the growing market for AI chips and GPUs.  *Disclaimer: Again, this is just what I like. I listed some company names so that you can see my thought process. You should do your own research.*  Great books to read if you want to learn more: The Intelligent Investor, Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits.  ### What are bonds? Bonds are IOUs from a company or government. Essentially, you lend them money and they promise to pay you back at a later date with some interest. There are many types of bond qualities from AAA (safest) to D (junk) with varying interest rates.  Great books to read if you want to learn more: The Complete Practitioner’s Guide to the Bond Market.  Other topics to research: - What is the The S&P 500 - Dollar Cost Averaging - Time Value of Money - Time in the market is better than timing the market  ## Crypto Bitcoin led the way in crypto by becoming the first decentralized digital currency. Then came Ethereum as a blockchain that allows us to execute “smart contracts”, essentially code that self-executes when certain conditions are met.  Since then, there are have been thousands of “alt-coins” created, each with sometimes different and sometimes very similar purposes.  Since this is a new industry, there is a ton of volatility in the price. Not to mention plenty of opportunities for scammers to take your money. Please inform yourself and only invest money you can afford to lose.   In my opinion, the fact that there are scams and price is volatile is no excuse for you to not (at the very least) get informed on blockchain.  You can buy crypto on [Gemini](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/gemini) or [Coinbase](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/coinbase/).  Topics to research: - What is a blockchain and how does it work? - What are smart contracts? - Different consensus algorithms: Proof of Work, Proof of Stake, etc - What is Yield Farming – there are protocols paying insane APYs right now (i.e. OlympusDAO) - What are DEXes? ## IRAs (Investment Retirement Accounts) An IRA is a taxable account that allows you to save and invest money for retirement.  My suggestion is to open a ROTH IRA first, max it out (currently at $6k/yr) then put any remaining money in a Traditional IRA. This is because it’s likely that when you are young you are making less money than when you are older. Roth has a $130k/yr income limit, also it’s more tax advantageous.  Topics to research: - How to open a ROTH IRA (you can do it on  Schwab) - Difference between ROTH and Traditional IRA ## Taxes No financial post can be done without talking about taxes, which is perhaps the biggest expense that one incurs during a fiscal year.  If you have a business, you can deduct most expenses from your income and lower your taxes. This is what rich people do, and this is why they have businesses.  Use [Turbotax](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/turbotax/) to file your taxes. You’ll likely save money even if it costs $99 to file.  ## Mortgage A mortgage is essentially a loan (money you borrow from the bank) to buy a house.  You usually need at least a 3.5% down-payment, although the higher the amount of money that you can contribute at the start, the less you will have to pay in interest. This isn’t necessarily the best, as current rates are quite low. In some cases, you can also deduct your mortgage interest payments from your tax liability.  The terms of your loan might be different, so speak with a mortgage professional to evaluate your situation.  A great way to get started with homeownership is House Hacking, which essentially means renting out a few rooms or a duplex in your first property. This helps you offset the cost of your mortgage. This is how I got started in Real Estate.  Topics to research: - What is house hacking? - Different types of mortgage loans - Mortgage down payment assistant programs in your state ## Bottom line Hope this was helpful. I plan to add to this guide over time. If it was, please share it with a friend that can benefit!  As I mentioned throughout the guide, these are just my personal notes. Please do your own research and consult with a financial advisor and tax professional for your specific situation.  Wish you the best in this wonderful financial independence journey! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top 6 Automated Video Creation Tools Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-6-automated-video-creation-tools/ Published: 2021-12-20 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line The automated video creation tools allow you to use text, photos, graphics, and even animation to create videos that look professionally done. While these tools can be helpful, you should know which tools suits your requirements the best; therefore, it’s important to consider your needs before deciding which service is best for you. Video marketing and content creation are more important than ever in an increasingly visual world of marketing, and even more so if you sell digital products or services as many entrepreneurs do.  Since manually creating videos can be time-consuming and sometimes frustrating, many people have started to use automated video tools to help them create good quality videos.  They don’t need to spend hours behind the computer screen and figuring out how it all works. Below are my top six picks of different types of automated video creation tools. Let’s check out their key features and pricing. ## Rocketium This simple-to-use platform allows you to create custom animated videos using your photos or stock ones. [Rocketium](https://rocketium.com/) can help you level up as a [video marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-you-can-level-up-as-a-video-marketer-online/) with its powerful features. The templates are easy to customize, making Rocketium a great choice for beginners. Additionally, you don’t need much video experience to use this.  Follow their [easy tutorial](https://rocketium.com/academy/tag/tutorial/) when you start, and your first video will be ready in minutes! ### Key Features #### Creative automation engine This tool allows you to increase your production with data feeds. You can also resize your videos automatically with a few clicks and create scale across channels. #### On-brand creative templates Setting up on-brand creative templates is made easy with their drag-and-drop editor; you can also import your custom templates. #### Multi-channel integration You can easily integrate with multiple channels with just one click. You can also monitor your performance, share links and optimize your files. #### Smart workflows This feature allows you to cut back on unnecessary work with easy workflows. You get to automate your work with triggers and alerts. Collaborating with your team and sharing updates has never been so easy. #### End-to-end customization You can switch features on and off for your team members. The user experience of your team members also can be customized. **Pricing** You get the price on request. ## Filmora Business Filmora Business is one of the [best software](https://www.wordstream.com/blog/ws/2017/12/15/best-video-editing-software-for-beginners) to help you create high-quality videos fast. It’s easy to use and has hundreds of tools to make whatever you want.  Their drag-and-drop builder is an amazing feature! They also offer more than 100 royalty-free sound effects that are perfect if you need music or want something specific to your video. ### Key Features #### Add Your Logo Easy Branding with Filmora The logo is a fundamental component of your image. With Filmora, you can undoubtedly add it to your recordings and change its size with only a couple of clicks. #### Showcase Products & Services Videos are the best way to educate consumers about what your business offers. Most people prefer to purchase a product with an introduction video.  With Filmora, you can impress your customers without so much effort. #### Communicate with Clients Filmora helps you make yourself more clear through video. This will help your image appear to be proficient and reliable. #### Provide Better Training Showing your organization’s qualities and culture through video is a superb method for encouraging workers and guaranteeing they have what it takes to succeed. **Pricing** $7.99 per month for individual users and $155.88 per year for businesses. ## Animaker Think of it as Instagram but for videos. Animaker lets you create animated videos from photos and video clips, with automatic image pan/zoom and transition effects.   Its simple interface also makes creating a non-automatic clip (i.e., a one-shot photo) easy—it’s a one-tap process. ### Key Features #### Smart move Nearly 80% of animators’ time is spent animating objects to move from one location to another. Animaker saves you time and effort. Using a single button press, you can animate complicated motions with Smart Move. #### Auto lip-sync Create voiceovers for your characters and see them say it with the auto lip-sync feature. You don’t have to worry about animating the character’s lips. Animaker performs all of the work for you! #### Character Builder Animaker lets you make genuinely custom characters! With north of 15 facial highlights to tweak and more than 10 embellishment openings, develop the person you need and zest your recordings! #### Professionally Crafted Templates Huge loads of expertly made layouts are prepared to give you the innovative edge expected to make your video. **Pricing** Price starts from $10/month. Custom pricing is also available. ## Magisto Magisto is an app that takes your photos and videos and turns them into slick slideshows. With lots of options for fonts, layouts, music (including licensed music). It is easy to create a movie or [YouTube video](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-youtube-videos/) with this tool. Additionally, it has many special effects like transitions that you can use to make beautiful videos.  One of my favorite features is that if you aren’t happy with your creation on their platform, Magisto will allow you to download your project and import it into one of several other apps you like.  This saves me from having wasted hours creating something only to realize it wasn’t exactly what I wanted and allows me more flexibility with my projects. ### Key Features 1. Magisto helps you produce commitment and leads with valid video content 2. You can develop mindfulness with cross-channel brand recordings 3. You can create sales videos **Pricing** Premium: $4.99/month. Professional: $9.99/month. Business: $34.99/month. ## Typito This service is designed to create an awesome-looking video ad in a matter of minutes. It gives you a toolbox of animation templates that are fun to use and help you get attention for your brand or product.  The best part about Typito is that they have very detailed instructions to walk you through each step of creating your animated banner, which makes it easier than ever before.  If you want to add texts, they even provide a full library of fonts so that you can choose one with personality and style!  They offer tons of great features such as transparent backgrounds, landscape formats, and even countdown timers!  Even if you aren’t a designer, there’s no reason why anyone couldn’t create an animated video with this tool. ### Features 1. See recordings on cell phones 2. Support for full HD 1080p recordings 3. Free implicit movement realistic layouts 4. Support for square and vertical recordings 5. Transfer video film and pictures to make a video material 6. Improve recordings with text, pictures, pre-made brand formats, and music 7. Download or share finished recordings across online media channels with a solitary snap **Pricing** Free plan: $0/month. Solo plan: $8/month. Pro plan: $21/month. ## Kamua Kamua is an automatic video-editing software designed to help organizations, advertisers, and content creators.  With this tool, users can naturally change landscape recordings to vertical, appropriate for versatile representation stages like Instagram and Snapchat. ### Features 1. HD resolution available 2. Easy collaboration 3. Video merging 4. Video splitting 5. Social sharing **Pricing** Free option available. ## 4 Tips For Automated Video Creation ### Consider your visual elements  No matter what [software](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-video-editing-software-of-2021/#:~:text=Importance%20of%20Choosing%20the%20Best%20Video%20Editing%20Software) you’re using, there’s a whole lot of imagery that goes into the video. Be sure to give yourself lots of time not only to plan out all of these images but find them as well.  You can buy stock footage or capture your own; make sure that it works with everything else to avoid an inconsistent look in your project. ### Choose a suitable platform While it’s true that you can create videos on your phone or tablet these days, it is certainly not a good idea.  Whether you’re creating content for professional purposes or sharing with friends and family, there are several major benefits to using software designed to make video creation easy. ### Upload your videos   The next step is to upload your videos. Keep in mind that high-quality files will take up more storage space; therefore, it’s a good idea to compress them if you’re aiming for high-definition. ### Publish   You can use a variety of social media platforms to promote your videos. However, if you’re aiming for professional results, it’s best to keep them on your website or a private social network. ## Bottom line There’s no denying that people [demand high-quality content](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnhall/2021/07/18/why-your-brand-credibility-depends-on-a-high-quality-content-strategy/?sh=15dc4d3b4982), no matter what business you’re in. You risk losing your audience’s interest if your brand doesn’t provide something fresh and engaging regularly.  Anyway, I hope this post helped you with your video creation needs. Let me know in the comments which Video tool you’ll be trying out! Liked the article? Read more to find out how video editing softwares could benefit you. - [5 Ways To Level Up as  a Video Marketer Online](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-you-can-level-up-as-a-video-marketer-online/) - [Top 5 Video Editing Software](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-video-editing-software-of-2021/#:~:text=Importance%20of%20Choosing%20the%20Best%20Video%20Editing%20Software) - [How to Make YouTube Videos](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-youtube-videos/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Are Microsites, And How To Use Them? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-are-microsites-and-how-to-use-them/ Published: 2021-12-13 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Microsites are great ways to boost promotions and launch new products to help improve your brand’s digital presence. They are separate from your brand’s main website and are more focused on sharing certain aspects of your content with a more specific group of people. Before deciding to use a microsite to improve your brand’s audience engagement, you must also weigh out its pros and cons. These are carefully laid out to help you identify whether creating microsites will be beneficial.  Hundreds of landing pages may be crammed with products, e-books, blog articles, and videos on your website. While a well-organized site architecture should make it easy for users to traverse your site, it’s occasionally preferable to keep things even simpler. This is where microsites can come in. In short, microsites are mini-websites created for specific events and campaigns. In this article, we’ll talk about [what microsites are](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2021/03/31/what-are-microsites-and-do-they-belong-in-your-marketing-strategy/?sh=aeecf1a13012), when you should use them, and how they are different from a true website. Interested? Read on! ## What is a microsite? Microsites are becoming popular today for [marketing campaigns](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/11/05/7-steps-to-take-before-running-a-marketing-campaign/) and increasing the brand awareness of several businesses. These are small groups of web pages or content sites outside of the main website of a business. In creating microsites, you can assign a different domain to them, or they could exist as a subdomain.  They were created so that your target audience could focus on the events posted on these mini-websites. ### Features of a Microsite  Some of the features of a microsite that are general to all are the following: 1. Microsites are short-lived; they are designed to market particular events or initiatives and are taken down after. 2. They have separate domains from the main website to work efficiently. 3. Microsites are content-rich because they target a specific initiative.  ### What are not microsites? To let you understand better, microsites are not any of the following listed below: - An entire website of products and services - A landing page to generate leads for an office ## When should you use microsites? Using microsites allows you to focus on one product or idea and limit the information to a few pages; thus, creating a resource that’s easy to be understood by your customers. Microsites are useful when you need to: 1. Launch a new campaign and test its effectiveness. 2. Share resources on a particular product. 3. Promote an event or seasonal products. 4. Host a campaign involving competition or a giveaway. 5. Expand your reach to a brand new group of audience. ## What are the advantages of using microsites? When you know how microsites work, they can be an effective marketing strategy for your business. Take a look at some of its advantages below. ### Targeted Campaigns With microsites, you have the chance to deliver your content to a more specific audience; your message does not necessarily have to connect to the rest of the people in your target market. If you plan to launch a new product, you can use a microsite to highlight its specific benefits to a smaller group. Therefore, increasing its effectiveness to those who are interested. ### [Brand Awareness](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-pr-for-your-brand/) Because microsites are commonly stand-alone from your brand’s main website, they can help establish your presence digitally. As mentioned earlier, microsites are easy to consume resources; a certain group of people can easily grasp your niche just by visiting your microsites.  ### The Potential to Become Viral When you create a microsite for a certain campaign or launch a new product, you create engaging content to drive traffic to your main website. Doing this can help create buzz online, which can benefit your brand, allowing your business to have the potential to become viral and gain publicity.  ### Easy to Manage  Because microsites are targeted campaigns, you only need a small team group to work on these. Smaller teams are easier to manage and save you time, energy, and resources. With microsites, you can better control your focused content and maintain a consistent tone of voice.  ### Boosted [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips) Microsites create focused content for a certain product launch or ad campaign; they can also help your brand rank better in search engine rankings.  When creating a microsite, you can use certain keywords throughout your page URLs to boost your brand’s ranking in search results and allow other customers to reach your brand easier and organically.  ## What are the disadvantages of using microsites? Before deciding on creating your first microsite, aside from the advantages, you also have to learn its disadvantages. In this way, you’ll know how to manage better and control the microsites you create for your brand.  ### Audience Confusion One of the most alarming issues of using microsites is that they can generate confusion, especially among first-time visitors to your brand’s website. When a brand new visitor lands on your website and clicks on one of your microsites, the information on it may not appeal to him.  When new visitors fail to understand your microsites, they may not return to your main website, which can cause you to lose a possible addition to your growing list of customers.  ### Shorter Life Cycle  When a promotion or a targeted ad campaign ends, the microsite’s terminated or abandoned. With this, ensure that your brand has properly utilized the microsite so that no resources, time, and effort are gone to waste.  ### Higher Costs A microsite is like a mini-website. Basically, you create a [website](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google-in-2020/) from scratch to create a microsite for your promotions and product launches. However, building one requires resources outside of your brand’s main website, including the site’s architecture, development, domain, and design.  With all the resources you need to create a microsite, your budget should also be ready. ## Ideas for Microsites ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/myIj-ZEAoJxrO6YCk4MbzvyUsTVWtODzkOP4DGXLzT6Q8t2_J9OaAnFiOpSaowl1slqFXh5x4VNNWJutTL_YoppbVmQvn_erV6rWr5CQ24pIvZO8C-3bdmQSREXF_VWLW-VUw8ED) Creating a microsite is not entirely difficult when you know the right steps. The following steps are what you need to make a successful microsite for your brand. 1. Create a buyer persona. 2. Set your goals for your microsites. 3. Look for examples of microsites that can inspire you to create your own. If you are looking for ideas on what type of microsite you wish to create for your brand, there are three general kinds that you can begin with.  1. Informative – to inform and educate your audience on a focused campaign, product, or promotion. 2. Interactive – a fun way of encouraging your audience to join in games or giveaways. 3. E-commerce – microsites that sell products or services to consumers. ## What’s the difference between a microsite and a website? ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Boou6BSAnTHEy8i-7PoyOkEuRvldOg5Tn53XA570Bbmv0Cm9xAZZb4f8e3ieMmiLtQ4PgdMAiijoRJuWXb-kioAMGywdTtrs1bLCrTK08RsDri8pW7nhG7Y8dz-loxlv3a_6-4f) While a microsite solely focuses on providing content to a particular audience, websites are larger hubs that allow potential customers to know everything about your business. With a website, visitors are introduced to your brand’s story, vision, mission, products, and any other content you have to allow them to get to know it better.  In short, your main websites show up when people search for your brand on the web, while the microsites are what they’ll see when they search for a particular aspect of your brand or content.  ### Choosing between creating a microsite or a brand new website If you want to build or improve your brand’s online presence, you may have to decide whether a microsite or a website is the ideal step to take.  Calculating your ROI can help you decide between creating a microsite or an entirely new website. Answering these questions can also help you conclude if you need to create a microsite or not.  1. How long does the site need to be up and running? 2. How can the microsite affect your audience’s engagement with your brand? 3. Can your main website not accomplish the objectives of your microsite? Once you answer these questions, you should already know which path to take. ## Final Say  Microsites are targeted campaigns that boost your brand’s audience engagement. You can create promotions, host giveaways, and launch new products without disrupting your main website’s online presence through these mini-websites.  When creating microsites, keep in mind the steps to create one and the disadvantages to help you strategize. You should know when microsites are needed and when to stick with your main website to lessen customer confusion.  In the comment section below, let me know if your brand has tried using microsites and how they have affected your online presence. Liked this article? Know more about business marketing online to increase brand awareness: - [12 Ways A Digital Marketing Consultant Can Help Grow Your Business](https://alejandrorioja.com/12-ways-a-digital-marketing-consultant-can-help-grow-your-business/) - [Geofencing Marketing: How Does It Work?](https://alejandrorioja.com/geofencing-marketing-how-does-it-work/) - [How To Do Digital Marketing: A Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Use Google Page Speed Insight? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-page-speed-insight/ Published: 2021-12-10 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: SEO TL;DR: In addition to this, there are 4 ways to score 100% on Google’s PSI. Page speed is defined in two ways; first, it is the time to display content above the fold. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Google has developed Page Speed Insight (PSI), a powerful tool that generates reports on a website’s performance on desktop and mobile.  From the user’s perspective, [the faster the page speed](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2019/09/11/how-important-is-page-speed-really/?sh=121c3a631533), the better the experience. Websites with fast loading times decrease the bounce-off rate, thus ranking higher in Google’s organic search. There are ways to brush up the Google PSI: image compression, HTML minification, device AMP, and cache utilization. If you love reading blog posts and shopping online, there are tons of available websites to choose from. But, have you ever experienced putting up with a website that took its time to load the page? If you have, so did I! I must say it wasn’t a good experience. In my observation, some owners put tons of large pictures on their websites. Doing this will result in slow page speed. In [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), this is not ideal because you’re not retaining users on your website. To cater to this complication, Google now provides PageSpeed Insight which is a very useful tool. In addition to this, there are 4 ways to score 100% on Google’s PSI. Keep reading to know more. ## What is page speed? Page speed is defined in two ways; first, it is the time to display content above the fold. The second is the amount of time a browser fully supplies the whole page. Other factors to consider are the user’s internet connection, web browsing data, and domain hosting service. While these are elements beyond your control as the website owner, you can optimize images, Javascript, and videos.  ## Why does page speed matter? So, why does page speed matter? Page speed is very important to rank your website on Google’s organic search. The page load time is the main reason you have to focus on page speed as it equates to success. To further illustrate the importance of page speed, Google has a new [Page Speed Benchmark](https://think.storage.googleapis.com/docs/mobile-page-speed-new-industry-benchmarks.pdf). They found out as the page’s loading time increases, the higher chance the user will bounce off. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wsGcZjpWLGBc_VA3rXb7wEsEg1L6dwCDT1PDBVJfTy8vbtX-XsAXDnhtH3cTDgeBYfecWAI-1VQSiEudwQDXw-ALE6O5S8bicXTC3G1rwhutpjdOoaHmRRE5X-Yj4IA5A6qsE2o4) Image source: [https://think.storage.googleapis.com/docs/mobile-page-speed-new-industry-benchmarks.pdf](https://think.storage.googleapis.com/docs/mobile-page-speed-new-industry-benchmarks.pdf) The image above shows the probability of bouncing off per page load time. So, if your website’s load time is from 1-10s, the bounce rate is at 123%, which is extremely high. Knowing all these, what tool can help you improve your page’s speed? The answer is right on the title: Google’s Page Speed Insights. ## What are Google’s Page Speed Insights? The Google Page Speed Insights (PSI) is a tool that analyses a webpage’s content and gives page speed for both desktop and mobile versions. It also sights points for improvement and optimization. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/rqzJ3nDFkPDOncC2Nd16KqZ0moUchWlIT-nlntEKEsx6yKwENCmS8DsPgsr4G6AvyLi2nFlCeq4qaSqqbUYiRR9WBjBFBTJT-X34ufLb66QrX0DXhbpZQwiAoVh3GBLnktd05Rrd) ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/X5bDi8KjV2Fi9LjptRIfSHqn-CppLXqUnVE82Pg4rl0aFjOWP00SuPsfqwL3NEjNWhzPNRBQQdUHm8uYEBWvoQ-3a4BtS6PozceuETx2pf6CJfMaPJgn3l0Hovb3SATi2Mj5IDYF) Image source: [SEJ](https://cdn.searchenginejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/screen-shot-2021-10-08-at-10.44.33-am-6165c59ba7e66-sej.png) Since you’re a website owner, you have to dig deeper into the cause of your page’s slow speed. By doing this, you’ll know what necessary changes to make before scoring 100% in your PSI.  ## How to Use PageSpeed Insights Tool Sites take time to load due to images size and cache clearing, but not all the time. To get you started, go to your [PageSpeed Insights Tool](https://pagespeed.web.dev/?utm_source=psi&utm_medium=redirect). Then, “Analyze” and let Google do its test.  There are two things here: First, Google gathers your page’s field data stored in [Chrome User Experience Report](https://developers.google.com/web/tools/chrome-user-experience-report). Secondly, it’s checking your page’s performance using the [LightHouse API](https://developers.google.com/web/tools/lighthouse).  The methods above help improve and remove factors that might affect your website’s load time. Also, PSI will bring about a comprehensive report that includes opportunities, diagnostics, passed audits, field and lab data.  For you to understand your PSI report, there’s a color coding for each indicator. Green means good, yellow means there are points for improvement, supplies, and red means poor. Here’s a detailed guide on how to shed light on each field of the report. ### Field Data The first is field data which divides the webpage’s performance and speed into 4 criteria. Each with a specific load time and speed. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HxlVO-LMGG5UoPHxynh2Jx8gw7Cwi8hcvXXTHaRpf9M26A2A53sAnxTI9GpmL7S9ye_ybwzu0TK9awG6GFw0dZD6qtW5vOXCeSelSbWWEyVrW7BtGyGUMO-FY6EK5SeO4IK0RKR-) Image source: [SEJ](https://cdn.searchenginejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/screen-shot-2021-10-11-at-12.20.06-pm-6165c9fd6585b-sej.png) 1. **First Contentful Paint (FCP)** – The first criterion shows the time it takes for the first text or image to load. 2. **Largest Contentful Paint (LCP)** – Next is the LCP, which conveys the time to load the biggest text or image. 3. **First Input Delay (FID)** – The third criterion is called first input delay. It reveals how much time the browser takes to reply to a user. 4. **Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS)** – Lastly, the CLSC measures any mobility within the page.  ### Lab Data Here we have lab data that uses the LightHouse API. Under this type of report, there are three criteria: 1. **Speed index**, which shows the time for the content to emerge during a page load. 2. **Time interactivity** conveys the page time until it becomes fully interactive. 3. **The total blocking time** indicates the sum of the first contentful paint and full interactivity. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QqdJF-4_UupJWHPGcxsZxpViVfTVYyuwKXi_y_x9pxrV-x4rHPUnFBWup0Lhw_aNCXG3L0w7q61ZSfoO65PaH_PmmILchkTLJVSO75dB1msH72-NHpzU-B_OOWsgmWW0DkA7cwL) Image source: [SEJ](https://cdn.searchenginejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/screen-shot-2021-10-11-at-12.21.07-pm-6165ca435b0fb-sej.png) ### Opportunities and Diagnostics The third report is called Opportunities and diagnostics, which gives a certain improvement for page speed. Also, the tool aims to provide action points in line with your management system. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/d8wmanGlMko_7KKDKvP7SAz88xDkyZLwne6eaDquWLXuZ4fQ_JkdGL4YaQ8Le6bdsEbcwY_rq6Cu-cT2_NfJ-AHrM365E8k-IsaBlKcfhBzhVERjQ4TUJXBmoEcxTrFuy3yE0kyt) ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/p7hKnOVn_NQ6tKmcFTgr7yZoKelXfT5o2QSgVTwZwAMW2nvr2s_bxjDySp6evhuFsia3djyRodK1APR9chQKUydoGX9qvDWowN8WlweTLJ6VlfZTiBhW9Y0KH-LWY1wv0uHZsUod) Image source: [SEJ](https://cdn.searchenginejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/screen-shot-2021-10-11-at-12.41.26-pm-6165caa35c853-sej.png) ### Passed Audits The last type of report is passed audits which shows what the website has been doing right. Of course, the more audits passed, pass plugins in your website optimization with its best practices. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/S5ndmrHfQxJHk5EAqRRQ7P3WIU1IKNhOEWIRCLUhGOTn7waAO60ZNCwoXl7iPQRpIPH9rOeF5ThSL6LUIUpwOPCBc1FMMegCPw1mG9_ycnu-3JCAGcx-xT002063IGgG1X5DERuL) Image source: [SEJ](https://cdn.searchenginejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/screen-shot-2021-10-11-at-12.54.36-pm-6165cb4b5b4db-sej.png) Now that you’ve learned about these things, here are 4 ways to score 100% on Google PageSpeed Insight. ## How to Score a Perfect 100%? Achieving 100% on PSI is not an easy task, so you still have to burn the midnight oil. Nonetheless, if you want to gain traffic and reduce bounce-off rates, you’ll have to do these methods. 1. Compress your images Large images cause the page to load slowly. To optimize this, you have to compress the images using tools. For example, in [WordPress](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-webflow/), you can use the [Smush Image](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-smushit/) to resize your images. To use this feature, add the plugin it will scan your media library and detect images.  Not to mention, you can also compress or resize multiple images by uploading them directly into the plugin. Notably, Smush is a fast tool because it can handle 50 images at a time. Another tool you can use to compress images is the [Crush.pics.](https://apps.shopify.com/crush-pics) If you run an e-commerce site, you can resize your photos. To add to the list, you can employ  [Optimizilla](https://imagecompressor.com/) and [Compress JPEG](https://compressjpeg.com/). These are free tools you can avail of if you can’t add a plugin. 2. Utilize Browser Caching The next method is to make use of your browser caching. How does browser caching work? It stores data from pages loaded before, so you don’t have to reload once you visit the site again. A visitor lands on another page on your website, and the logos and footers won’t have to load again. The result is faster page speed. Like the Smush, there’s a plugin for this. Again, for WordPress, you can add [W3 Total Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/w3-total-cache/). It’s one of the most popular cache plugins and claims to improve your overall site. If you’re not a coder, you can begin with this cache since it’s easy to use. 3. Minimize your HTML Minification is the third method on the list. The process entails the removal of unnecessary and duplicated data that affects how a browser processes the HTML. In addition, minimizing the HTML space is a huge factor when getting a perfect score in Google’s PSI.  On your plugin page, you can add [HTML Minify](https://github.com/cferdinandi/gmt-html-minify). The tool will help in formatting, fixing, removing, and shortening code if necessary. As a bonus, HTML Minify is free and can be downloaded in seconds. After installing the Minify, go to the setting tab and enable all settings except for Support multi-byte UTF-8 encoding. The plugin will also recommend actions for each setting. Google’s PSI suggests you minify HTML, CASS, and JavaScript. To activate this, enable the “Minify HTML” + “Inline JavaScript” in the settings. Then, select yes and remove HTML, JavaScript, and CSS comments. 4. Device AMP Lastly, you can implement the [Accelerated Mobile Pages](https://instapage.com/blog/amp). The AMP is a program by Google to help faster page loading for mobile devices. Its format is aimed at disposing of any irrelevant information for a better mobile experience. Users can also have a more optimized experience by eliminating features that don’t work well on mobile devices. The AMP looks like this: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Kxk9d9aFH8f1x13-TZt993vhltMkT6NJUjgORyFj9Q-TkJeJmYovUHZRVZe8_YxQXO04R4eWyycKkAVk07g_SJ2hf1kVZ7t4R1ylFfujAsnfLjPLMzcC1NNc5KX_Y52_6UfoBA8d) Image source: [WP Beginner](https://www.wpbeginner.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/amp-examples.jpg) The AMP allows the user to experience a good format and lets the pages load quickly. In short, the page is a simplified version of its actual website. For this reason, the user can load the page in less than 10 seconds and can view multiple pages without clicking the back button. It’s fitting to say that AMP can significantly increase mobile speed, and in return, it will be an avenue to score high on Google’s PSI. ## Page Speed Beneficial for Your Website The page speed will help retain users on your website. The time your page loads affect your users’ experience. In return, Google can use this as a factor to rank you in the organic search. By all means, the best page load time is 3 seconds.  Users rely mostly on search engines. If they often experience slow websites, they’ll stop using those. That’s why speed will boost your website. What have you learned in this post? To help you understand more, here are some articles you’ll love: - [Content Quality Vs. Quantity: Should You Write One Long Blog Post Or 10 Shorter Ones?](https://alejandrorioja.com/content-quality-vs-quantity-should-you-write-one-long-blog-post-or-10-shorter-ones/) - [Top 10 Editorial Tools To Keep Your Content Organized](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-editorial-tools-to-keep-your-content-organized/) - [20 Best SEO Tools for 2021( Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) Be sure to comment and share so I can know your thoughts about this. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Brands Use TikTok Stitch And Duet For Marketing? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/tiktok-stitch-and-duet-for-marketing/ Published: 2021-12-09 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: TikTok stitch and Duet are easy and effective ways to boost your brand awareness in the digital world. These two features allow you to get ahead of your other competitors, reach and engage your audience more efficiently, and convince them to take action towards your brand. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line TikTok stitch and Duet are easy and effective ways to boost your brand awareness in the digital world. These two features allow you to get ahead of your other competitors, reach and engage your audience more efficiently, and convince them to take action towards your brand.  Through TikTok stitch and duet, your brand is given a chance to become viral and reach more people in your target market. These features are a great addition to your social media marketing strategies.  TikTok continues to increase in popularity as it makes its mark in the entertainment and business industry. Many brands worldwide have started to use it as part of their marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and customer engagement.  As TikTok competes with other social media channels for brand marketing, its additional features, Stitch and Duet, are also helpful marketing tools. If I were to use this platform for my business, I would certainly try out these features to enhance my marketing strategy.  To help you get started and convinced on using TikTok Stitch and Duet for your brand, let’s dive deeper into what these features are and how they can help you. I will also give you examples of famous brands that use these to their advantage.  ## What is a TikTok Stitch? ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nOfM8IDOXpmEA0TCxUDby9uca9O7NkppBEcqG3G8kw4FkWx8y1GsXJY_Zjfl6_6Vn8hABfQ945qj28N1D0H_TdlriKI77F5Jwl1fhky2f_0dZotuOJXivXw2o7HQqAMd_g) TikTok Stitch allows users to cut and edit other people’s videos on their [For You Page](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-on-tiktoks-for-you-page-fyp/) and incorporate them into their content.  However, not all users enable this feature. When you post a video on TikTok, you decide whether other users can stitch your video or not. This can be done by clicking the Stitch button on your video settings before posting.  The main advantage of using TikTok stitch is that it enables certain content to become viral differently from how it’s originally posted.  ## What is a TikTok Duet? ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/OVfTJUMT9Zqg_MSNvR-VmVxQLJSXc4yc7IKuHRMl0Tob7CyE58Jm7u8CryqMc9Y0lq07I2l5Z8pA27LWBgdYFs3RBhdgzCvTHQUcWg5cGgGqck1FVmBdi6FRUeKYWB6xFA) TikTok Duet is another editing feature that enables you to combine two videos in a split-screen format. Unlike stitch, where you have to cut the video and include snippets into your own, with TikTok duet, users can simultaneously play the two videos on one screen. Users who created the original videos also need to allow duet on their video settings to enable it. In this way, you are given a chance to amplify the message of the original content to your videos. ## Why should Brands use TikTok Stitch and TikTok Duet for their marketing? The success of [social media marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) mainly relies on three elements: 1\. Attainment or Reach 2\. Engagement 3\. Action To boost [brand awareness](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2021/11/29/your-exit-strategy-five-marketing-strategies-to-maximize-valuation/?sh=171b655606ff) and sales, you want to reach as many people as possible, engage them through your content, and motivate them to take action towards your brand. It may sound simple to do, but it’s not that easy.  Fortunately, TikTok features such as Stitch and Duet can help drive more traffic to your brand, thereby contributing to your social media marketing success. ## What types of businesses should try using Stitch and Duet for their marketing? Even though TikTok is more catered to the younger population, you should not be quick to put off using this social media platform to market your brands. With Tiktok’s active users reaching [1 million monthly](https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/), surely, some people will be interested.  That being said, you have to learn how to reach the younger population active on TikTok. You have to learn to embrace and use TikTok Stitch and Duet to get ahead of your competitors. This is the perfect platform where you can grow your business profile. ## What are some brands that use TikTok Stitch and Duet for marketing? If you are still not convinced of how helpful TikTok stitch and duet can be for your business marketing, check out these famous big brands that have taken advantage of these two features.  ### 1\. NBA NBA’s famous stitch, “Tell Me You’re an NBA Fan Without Telling Me You’re An NBA Fan.” is a simple but effective stitch that joins millions of NBA fans together on one platform, reaching and engaging more people. In this case, the video gave a prompt to NBA’s followers. When their followers saw it, they incorporated NBA’s original video into their responses. Even though NBA used a simple format for its video stitch, it’s still a good way to drive content engagement. Remember that every time you make TikTok stitches, they give you free publicity, which helps expand your audience reach. ### 2\. Amazon Prime Amazon Prime did a famous TikTok stitch featuring a topless Michael Jordan opening a door. It’s a video clip that makes users wonder what is happening in the scene; the stitch allows any user to stitch and finish the story.  This video stitch became viral on TikTok because it triggered the creative juices of most users as they stitched the video and acted out the rest of the scene. It even became more viral because it’s Michael Jordan on the clip! ### 3\. Puma  One brand that used TikTok duet to increase brand awareness is Puma. The original video featured a barista failing at illustrating the Puma logo on top of a coffee order. When Puma saw the video, they did a TikTok duet that rose to the challenge and created a Puma logo on top of the coffee. As you can see, what Puma did was a simple TikTok duet that became viral and appealed to its target audience, and it gained more than one million views.  The video had nothing to do with products from Puma, but it helped increase brand awareness because the Puma logo is the main star of the video.  ### 4\. San Diego Zoo San Diego Zoo also used duet challenges to increase its audience reach and engagement. They gave Tiktok users a chance to sing or duet with one of its lovable animals, Crikey, the noisy bird.  Its original video came with the hashtag #sandiegozooduetssweepstakes, which successfully increased the brand’s reach and popularity on TikTok. Making creative content on this platform helps increase brand awareness; this is exactly what San Diego Zoo did.  The original video was unique and even included a challenge stating that whoever made the most creative duet would win zoo passes. This certainly caused users to take action and create duets with the original video.  ### 5\. Urban Decay Cosmetics Different make-up brands are now using TikTok to market their products; Urban Decay Cosmetics is one of those brands. The release of Prince 4 Ever Collaboration used TikTok stitch as part of the make-up brand’s product launch. The original video showcased a close-up look on all the products under the collaboration, which drove excitement among users and led them to incorporate snippets of that video into their content. If your brand has a product launch soon, don’t hesitate to use the TikTok stitch to make your new releases viral and increase engagement.  ### 6\. John Derting  If you don’t know who John Derting is, he’s a famous photographer and videographer with 1.7 million followers on TikTok. His videos mainly showcase the unique beauty of nature around the world. Stitching his videos is a great way to show that you deeply care for the ecosystem and nature around you.  ### 7\. ESPN ESPN made a buzz on TikTok when it published a video showcasing the outstanding dunking skills of a young kid. The short video had an incredible reach and engagement and also received millions of duets. The majority of the duets were basketball players, amazed at how skilled the young kid was.  ### 8\. Vessi Duet Giveaway  Vessi is a famous shoe company in Canada; they used the TikTok duet for its recent giveaway, and it was a successful campaign. Their followers were given a chance to show off their Vessi shoes while the company dueted their videos. They also gave a free pair of shoes to some.  The duet was a simple but effective strategy to boost audience engagement; it’s also a win-win because Vessi increased its brand awareness, and a few lucky followers won free shoes. ## How can a business measure the success of its TikTok stitch and duet? ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gM51jobduVBrAxbLw64PxN4SSDU3Uub7fKDZkzE0heMBvmdzgETKNIWZjbjQGk2TGMeWd93UVvPbmOQCNmpujnjgWfN7lU3PXCZFhLU1lv5LG2JvGH3ONnDJx50V2x_5eg) The only way to measure whether your stitches and duets are doing great with your marketing is through TikTok Analytics. TikTok Analytics gives insights into how your content performs, but there are no metrics specifically targeted at measuring your TikTok stitch and duet. However, it can give you an idea about what type of content works well for you through the following metrics: - Total likes, comments, and shares on each post - Average watch time and engagement estimates - Total playtime and video views ## Final Say  As TikTok continues to expand towards business marketing, it’s no doubt that many brands have geared their content to match TikTok’s growing popularity. With the Stitch and Duet features, this platform gave brands an easy, simple, but effective strategy to succeed in their [brand marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/).  To summarize, TikTok stitch and duet features can improve your brand’s reach, engagement, and action — the three core elements of social media marketing.  In the comment section down below, let me know whether you have tried using Stitch and Duet on TikTok and how the experience was for you. Liked this article? Know more about Social Media Marketing strategies to increase brand awareness: - [How social media can help your business grow?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-social-media-can-help-your-business-grow/) - [12 Ways a Digital Marketing Consultant Can Help Grow Your Business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/12-ways-a-digital-marketing-consultant-can-help-grow-your-business/) - [Top 14 Tips For Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. ## Updated for May 2026 TikTok in 2026 is operating under uncertainty in the US: the **PAFACA Act** (signed April 2024) forced ByteDance into negotiations through 2025; the platform stayed live but with US-data-handling guardrails. For marketing, the practical implications: - **Stitch and Duet remain core** discovery primitives; algorithm preference shifted modestly toward Duet (collaborative) over Stitch (response) for B2C verticals in the back half of 2025. - **TikTok Shop** matured into a meaningful e-comm channel — GMV crossed ~$45B globally in 2024, with US share growing fastest. If a Stitch/Duet strategy doesn't have a Shop tie-in by 2026, it's leaving money on the table. - **CapCut** (ByteDance-owned) is now the de-facto editor — the in-app TikTok editor lost share to CapCut Pro features in 2024–25. ~1.7B MAU globally (Q4 2025). The "what's working on TikTok" answer evolves quarterly — assume any specific tactic in this post needs verification before a campaign cycle. --- ## Top 8 Facebook Ads Tools That Can Help You As A Marketer Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-facebook-ads-tools-that-can-help-you-as-a-marketer/ Published: 2021-11-25 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Facebook is one of the most popular advertisement channels that marketers utilize to get leads, sales and spread brand awareness. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Facebook is one of the most popular advertisement channels that marketers utilize to get leads, sales and spread brand awareness. However, if you think using advertisements will always help you reach your audience, there’s a chance that it won’t because not all advertisements work and can earn you more money and promote your brand. Before creating an advertisement on Facebook, you should know how to identify those tools that can help you boost your post or page instead of those tools that only waste your money and time.    If you’re a marketer like me, you know that Facebook has always offered great targeting options for advertisers. The platform uses information like demographics and interests to help them find relevant people interested in their product or service.  However, newer tools allow advertisers to be even more specific about who they’re targeting by looking at things like a user’s online browsing history or purchase data from brick-and-mortar stores. By refining these audiences, marketers can drive down costs while getting better results from their campaigns. In this article, let’s talk about the Top 8 Facebook Ads Tools that helped me reach my Facebook marketing goals. ## AdStage [AdStage](https://www.adstage.io/) helps you to manage your ads campaigns. The software is extremely easy to use, tracks everything perfectly, and has great reporting.  If you like all your stats in one place without buying multiple pieces of software or hiring an agency, AdStage makes a lot of sense for small businesses that need to test ads across different networks.  In addition, AdStage considers Facebook guidelines and tailors your ads campaign accordingly. This will ensure you don’t [violate Facebook’s policies](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-avoid-facebook-jail/), resulting in your ads account being banned. They have powerful targeting options that would satisfy most advertisers’ needs. And they’re very transparent about their pricing model, which I love. This platform includes email marketing capabilities too, but no landing page builder or CRM integration yet. ### AdStage Features #### 1\. Advanced reporting AdStage provides powerful yet easy-to-use reporting tools that make sharing and analyzing data with your team and clients easy. #### 2\. Automation Automation is made easy with this feature; you can automatically monitor and optimize day-parting ads so that you can have more time to focus on more important things. #### 3\. Easy integration AdStage allows you to integrate your campaigns with different ad networks, e.g., AdSense, Bing, Linkedin, and so on. ## Facebook Ads Manager Since its inception, Facebook Ads Manager has helped marketers create effective ad campaigns with relative ease. With an intuitive interface and helpful tutorials, Ads Manager makes it easy to use targeting features like demographics, location, and interests.  Running ads on Facebook can seem intimidating at first, but anyone with a small budget can easily set up an ad campaign that promotes their business—and reaches who they want to reach. For information on how to use Facebook ads manager, click [here.](https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/facebook-ads-manager-guide-for-beginners/) ### Facebook Ads Manager Features ### Carousel Carousel Ads lets you explain your products in a fun and informative way, so you can have your customer’s attention from the first second they see your ad. ### Facebook Pixel Facebook pixel is the analytics tool that helps you measure conversions, optimize your ads and targeting, and gain insights about the Facebook users who visit your website. ### Behavioral Targeting Using personalized ads, Facebook allows you to target your audience based on their prior usage, purchase intent, and other behavioral characteristics. ### Interest Targeting Interest targeting is a powerful form of personalization, where your audience is targeted based on the things they are interested in. This could be activities, hobbies, the pages they have liked, or many other things. ## Canva Whether you’re a Fortune 500 company or a small-business owner, Canva can help you with graphic design. In its most basic form,  Canva allows users to design social media posts, advertisements, and even book covers. It includes pre-designed templates for Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest to allow users to produce graphics from concept to completion quickly. If you need more than just some premade images and layouts,  Canva also gives users access to millions of royalty-free images and icons available for free use. It has searchable databases of content by subject matter, including video footage and photos.  It has a useful search feature that organizes its materials into related categories such as black and white photography or colorful family portraits if your project requires it. For a detailed review on [how canva works](https://alejandrorioja.com/canva-review/), check out my review. Canva key features include: - Graphics and video-editing - Live presentation - Text animation  - Photo enhancing - Flyer designing ## SocialPilot SocialPilot is also one of my preferred tools for managing Facebook ads. One of its biggest advantages over other social media management tools is that it’s not bound to any particular social network; you can schedule and publish content across multiple networks using it.  For example, if you’re already using Hootsuite and want to create content for LinkedIn or Instagram, SocialPilot would work well with it.  The scheduling feature (which Hootsuite doesn’t have) lets you streamline your activity by pre-scheduling posts in advance so that they’ll go live on your desired date and time without any additional effort on your part. This allows you to dedicate more time to creating engaging content rather than worrying about when to post it.  Additionally, SocialPilot offers a comprehensive library of downloadable elements for each social network, making it easy to use images, videos, and GIFs from various sources within your posts. ### SocialPilot Features #### 1\. Social Performance analyzing and monitoring This feature enables you to keep track of your most performing content; you can also know when to post by analyzing when your audience is most active and so on.  It is also useful for avoiding [bounce rates](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-4-reasons-of-high-bounce-rate/) on your website by showing you devices used by most of your audience to optimize it accordingly. #### 2\. Advanced customer engagement SocialPilot gives you an amazing ability to engage customers and prospects easily by bringing together all your [conversations](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2021/08/17/14-smart-approaches-to-optimizing-facebook-ads-for-conversions/?sh=73879852f8cf) across Facebook pages in one place. #### 3\. Team management You can monitor your team’s activity, like checking how many tasks have been completed and updates that have been made. You can also assign roles to each member of your team. #### 4\. Content Curation, Discovery & Custom Feeds You can get evergreen content from the web, which would be delivered to your account. SocialPilot also lets you schedule the contents you got and publish them at the right time. ## Hootsuite Ads Hootsuite is one of my favorite platforms when it comes to social media management.  Whether you are looking to schedule your posts, view stats on what you’ve posted, or use their insights to see what works best for your audience, Hootsuite has you covered.  This platform allows users to create ads and has a number of third-party integrations, which makes managing social media accounts super easy.  You can also use it to collect emails from people that have liked or followed your page, creating  an opportunity for more sales down the road. ### Key Features 1. Dedicated dashboard for each social network  2. Scheduling and monitoring capabilities  3. Advanced analytics  4. Powerful search function and many useful apps to help you run your marketing campaign. ## Facebook Audience-insights The easiest way to identify your audience is by uploading a list of email addresses you already have. From there, Facebook will analyze each person in that list and pull out all sorts of details about them. If they are on Facebook at all, it’ll also provide you with data about their age, location, interests, and behaviors—even if they aren’t connected to you in any way.  Reports from Facebook audience-insights give you everything you need to make sure your ad shows up in front of people who are likely to want what you’re selling—and not in front of anyone else.  Using tools like these will ensure that every dollar spent driving traffic to your website converts into sales. These types of reports can help you avoid spending money on wasted impressions. If no one wants your product, just targeting more people isn’t going to solve your problem. ## BigSpy BigSpy enables you to view a company’s advertising campaigns in real-time, including their ads and bidding strategy. This feature is useful for assessing your competition and knowing what to expect when going against them in an ad auction.  It also lets you make adjustments to your campaigns based on what you see from competitors.  For example, if you notice a competitor continually lowering bids by 5% during lunchtime, then lowering them by 15% between 3-5 pm, then 2 days later increasing bids by 30%, start doing that same thing yourself. It allows you to save hours of tedious work manually reviewing data from within Facebook itself. ## AdEspresso AdEspresso is one of my favorite Facebook ads tools. It allows you to create FB ads without writing a single line of code by helping you design your ad with their drag-and-drop editor, which is pretty simple to use even if you don’t have any coding skills.  There are a lot of benefits you can get when you [optimize your Facebook campaign](https://www.happyninetofive.com/2017/09/how-to-use-adespresso-to-optimize-your.html) with AdEspresso. If you’re starting with advertising on FB, they have a [guide](https://adespresso.com/guides/facebook-ads-beginner/) where they will give you step-by-step instructions on how to set up your first campaign in 30 minutes or less.  Their team has created several custom templates and examples to help get you started quickly and efficiently. The platform’s most popular feature (in my opinion) is their advanced logic feature, which allows you to easily split test multiple variants of your ads and landing pages—and it’s completely free!  AdEspresso’s advanced logic feature works by allowing you to add what-if scenarios into your campaigns based on certain criteria such as specific audiences or time frames. ## The Essential Facebook Ads Tools Let’s face it: Facebook ads aren’t exactly the best and most efficient way to get your message across. But with these top 10 tools, you can make the most out of them. Liked the post? Check out how other tools can help you grow your business. - [Best 8 Landing Page Optimization Tools 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/landing-page-optimization-tools/) - [Asana Review 2021: A Cloud-Based Project Management Tool](https://alejandrorioja.com/asana-review/) - [Ahrefs Vs. Semrush: Which One Is For You?](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-vs-semrush/) Drop a comment and let me know which tool you’d like to test out! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Ahrefs Vs. Semrush: Which One Is For You? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-vs-semrush/ Published: 2021-11-17 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: SEO TL;DR: With more than 20 billion keywords for Google, the SEMrush Keyword Magic tool is the largest keyword database in the market. Aside from these, SEMrush also upped their game with content optimization, competitor PPC campaign analysis, and log file analysis. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Investing in SEO tools is always worth a try, especially if you want your website to succeed. As an online marketer, using SEO tools is the way to go. When choosing the right tool for your SEO needs, there are crucial features to consider. These include rank tracking and keyword research. Both Ahrefs and SEMrush are useful tools for effective SEO campaigns. Whatever SEO solutions your website needs, these platforms have rich tools for online success. This article compares both the tools to help you decide which one to opt for going forward! [Search engine optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) helps you improve your site’s traffic, ensuring that your business or blog will be successful. So, using SEO tools can be a worthy investment. If you’ve been searching for resources for your website or business’s SEO needs, you’re in the right place. In this article, I have covered Ahrefs and SEMrush—two of the most popular tools in the SEO landscape. That said, I’ll be comparing based on keyword research, backlink analysis, technical SEO auditing, rank tracking, and competitor research. Without further ado, let’s put Ahrefs and SEMrush head to head to help you decide which tool has all [your SEO needs](https://www.businessinsider.com/seo-tips-for-search-engine-optimization-2011-7). ## Ahrefs Overview Ahrefs has evolved from a backlink analysis tool in 2010 to a complete SEO solution. In the process, it has become a powerful resource for marketers and researchers alike. Over the years, it has developed other SEO solutions, including site auditing, keyword research, and so much more. Additionally, it’s also known for other unique features, including: 1. Customized alerts for backlinks, new keywords, mentions, and more 2. Domain comparisons 3. Reports 4. Content explorer 5. A comprehensive review of search traffic ## SEMrush Overview SEMrush is the leading competitive research service for digital marketers, with features that can help you stand out from your competitors. With more than 20 billion keywords for Google, the SEMrush Keyword Magic tool is the largest keyword database in the market. Aside from these, SEMrush also upped their game with [content optimization](https://flux.la/how-to-write-seo-articles), competitor PPC campaign analysis, and log file analysis. Additionally, SEMrush also has reverse engineering for traffic sources. ## Ahrefs vs. SEMrush: Which is the better SEO Tool? Overall, both Ahrefs and SEMrush help you improve your website’s SEO game. They do this in different ways, but the main thing you get is information. In turn, you can use the information to: - See what exactly people are searching for in your niche - Develop content that attracts organic search traffic - Find out the opportunities of building links from other sites - Modify your site’s technical aspects for better SEO performance Now, which is the better SEO tool?  To help you decide, I’ll compare the two tools using different parameters. Continue reading to find an in-depth comparison of Ahrefs and SEMrush. ### Keyword Research Keyword research is a tool that helps you decide which keywords to use in future content. However, it doesn’t do much to track those currently being used on your web pages. When looking for SEO tools, keyword research is the most crucial area to compare platforms. #### Ahrefs Ahrefs offers two main keyword research tools: keyword explorer and organic keywords. Keyword explorer works like most keyword tools on the market. You type in a keyword, and then the platform generates a list of keyword ideas. However, a unique feature of the keyword explorer is it’s not just a way to understand the search volume of keywords. It also enables you to see how many clicks you get for ranking a keyword. Additionally, Ahrefs’ keyword research also supports several other functions, including: 1. Keywords for various search engines, including Bing, Amazon, Naver, Youtube, and Google 2. Clocking on keywords gives you suggestions about the initial search 3. Showing you keyword options you might’ve not considered #### SEMrush SEMrush’s main keyword research feature is the Keyword Magic Tool that contains more than 20 billion keywords for Google. This tool allows you to analyze keywords, giving you suggestions so you can start improving your SEO. The Keyword Magic Tool also lets you use modifiers like Broad Match, Phrase Match, and Exact Match. This way, you can get more specific results from your initial keyword. SEMrush also has the Keyword Manager, which you can use to create keyword lists that you can use as a reference. ### Backlink Analysis Backlinks and backlink popularity is crucial for a site to perform well in search results. The more backlinks and the better the link profile, the better your chances of ranking higher in search results. Both Ahrefs and SEMrush allow you to enter a domain name and find all backlinks to the site. #### Ahrefs Ahrefs’ Site Explorer tool gives you valuable search data and comprehensive analysis of your site’s link profile. This tool also lets you analyze your competitors’ link profiles. Some valuable information you can also get from Ahrefs include: 1. Number of dofollow and nofollow links 2. Backlinks’ country of origin 3. Linking domain types In terms of backlink database size, Ahrefs might come in short with only 165 million domains.  #### SEMrush SEMrush’s Backlink Analytics tool is designed to give you an in-depth view of your backlink profile. This way, you can see which sites are important for your ranking and which areas need the most attention. In addition, this tool also lets you view your competitors’ backlink profiles. Aside from these, SEMrush has a bigger domain database with 729 million domains. It also provides valuable information, including anchor text used, backlinks’ country of origin, and even new vs. lost domains. The platform also provides stats through graphs, making information easy to understand.  ### Technical SEO Auditing Technical SEO is a big, big job if you want your site to achieve higher search rankings. It also helps search engines make sense of your website. While other SEO aspects like link building usually sideline it, SEO auditing is equally important for [better SEO performance](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips). That said, it’s important to conduct a technical SEO audit regularly so that issues don’t hold your site back from [ranking in SERPs](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/09/06/five-key-methods-to-boost-your-search-ranking-and-online-brand/?sh=7931a4c22c78). #### Ahrefs With Ahrefs’ Site Audit tool, you can get an analysis of your website’s current SEO status for more than 100 pre-defined SEO issues. The tool provides: 1. A complete analysis of your site 2. Showing you an overall SEO score 3. Key information 4. Possible SEO issues Not only that, but it also provides you with solutions on how you can fix the issues. #### SEMrush One of the most popular tools on SEMrush is the Site Audit tool. This tool allows you to do a comprehensive SEO audit on your website and analyzes its overall SEO health. It also provides you with a complete list of issues your site has and recommendations to help you fix them.  The Site Audit tool lets you use over 130 checks for SEO issues, including common on-page issues like title tags and images. It also has checked for more complicated issues like HrefLang conflicts and format errors in sitemap.xml files. ### Rank Tracking The rank tracking method is a way of determining how well your SEO efforts are going. It also allows you to show how well your SEO campaign is impacting your website’s online visibility. #### Ahrefs Ahrefs’ Rank Tracker helps you stay on top of your keywords in multiple locations (country level) and across devices. It also lets you see how your rankings for a particular keyword change over time. The Rank Tracker gives you the option to add keywords that you’d like to track. You can also add up to 5 competitors so you can compare search rankings against them. Once you use Ahrefs’ Rank Tracker, you’ll be able to keep track of your keyword and SEO campaign performance. It also allows you to monitor your competitors’ visibility in search and modify your campaigns accordingly. #### SEMrush The SEMrush Position Tracking tool enables you to track your target keywords. What’s good about this tool is that it’s one of the most accurate rank tracking tools that you can find. Additionally, the Position Tracking tool lets you see your site’s mobile and local rankings, providing you a good look at your site’s SERP visibility. This tool also enables you to add the keywords you want to rank for and track your positions on multiple devices. It shows you three important metrics: positions, visibility, and estimated traffic. ### Competitor Research Another important SEO aspect you shouldn’t ignore is competitor research, which informs your SEO strategy. This aspect is especially beneficial for content strategies as well as link acquisition. With this, you must have enough knowledge of your competitors in terms of SEO. #### Ahrefs Ahrefs has a domain comparison tool that allows you to compare up to five websites: your website and up to four competitors. With this tool, you can also view useful metrics like backlinks and domain ratings. More so, Ahrefs’ tool has a Competing Domains feature, allowing you to see your most direct competitors. #### SEMrush With SEMrush, you get more than just information on your competitors. The platform-tools allow you to test and spy on your competitors efficiently. SEMrush has various tools that you can use for competitor analysis, like: 1. Traffic Analytics helps you assess and monitor your site’s traffic and audience. 2. SEMrush Organic Research gives you the information you need to make better decisions in your SEO efforts. 3. Market Explorer allows you to create a customized dashboard of websites and articles based on keywords, phrases or domains entered. ## Pricing Plans Presently, you can’t get any free trial from Ahrefs. On the other hand, SEMrush offers a free version of its platform. Here are the platforms’ pricing plans to help you get a better look at Ahrefs and SEMrush. ### Ahrefs - Trial: $7 for 7 days (Standard/Advanced only) - Lite: $99 monthly - Standard: $179 monthly - Advanced: $399 monthly - Agency: $999 monthly ### SEMrush - Starting price: Free - Pro: $119.95 monthly - Guru: $229.95 monthly - Business: $449.95 monthly - Custom plans and enterprise solutions are also available. Additionally, here’s a comparison of the two platforms’ basic plans.
Basic Plan FeaturesAhrefs Lite ($99/month, 1 week for $7)SEMrush Pro ($119/month, with 1-month free trial)
Number of Users11
Projects53
Number of Keywords for Tracking500500
Total Pages to Crawl10,000100,000
PDF ReportsNA5
Social Profiles to MonitorNA50
## Other Unique Features You Should Know About Aside from the tools I’ve mentioned above, Ahrefs and SEMrush also offer other unique tools that you can use. ### Ahrefs 1. The batch analysis gives you comprehensive reports that let you compare many URLs. 2. The link intersect tool helps you find link-building opportunities. 3. SEO toolbar is a browser extension that lets you monitor your domain rating and backlink stats. 4. Ahrefs API lets you use the Ahrefs database externally. ### SEMrush 1. Content analyzer enables you to analyze the value of your site’s content. 2. Domain vs. Domain Comparison Tool allows you to compare two domains side-by-side, helping you understand your competitor better. 3. The backlink audit tool lets you check the different backlink types, including image, text, and form. ## The Right Tool for Your SEO Needs Ahrefs and SEMrush have their fair share of features, but you can select the right one for you based on important factors. These factors include those that I’ve discussed above, like SEO auditing and competitor research. With this, you really can’t go wrong with either Ahrefs or SEMrush. However, I suggest choosing Ahrefs if you want a cleaner UI and if you’re going to use other search engines besides Google. On the other hand, choose SEMrush if you want more SEO and marketing features and better competitor analysis tools. Found this post insightful? Read more about SEO below! - [Google Voice SEO Tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/) - [White-Hat Link Building Techniques That Google Loves](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) - [The Best SEO Tools for 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## A Beginner’s Guide To Google Ads Manager Accounts Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-manager-account/ Published: 2021-11-15 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: SEO TL;DR: It was Google Adwords until the company renamed it to Google Ads in 2018. This tool works when users search for a keyword and get the results on a search engine results page or SERP. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Google Ads Manager accounts are one of the crucial aspects of any business. It’s important to know this because your business is dependent on AdSense revenue and for your readers who rely on you to inform them about the latest trends in their industries. Without Google Ads Manager accounts, you can’t even see what kind of ads are receiving the most attention from your visitors. Given that Google Ads is one of the most trusted online marketing tools, it helps you grow your websites and take control of your marketing. You can manage all of your marketing campaigns on one platform. Plus, you can create many marketing campaigns on the same account. There are also features where you can perform all of your ad management tasks without leaving the application. Google Ad Manager is a powerful tool for both businesses and individuals looking to get their business started or grow an established one.  In that case, this is your step-by-step guide created to help you start your Ad Manager account, improve your account’s performance, and get you more lead generation.  But before anything else, let’s recap: What’s with Google Ads?  [The Google ads program](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/) is a great way to generate income for us. It helps us put your website on the first page of search engines.  If I have a website, my audience should see my ads first. That’s why it’s so important to use proven [SEO tools](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2019/12/11/three-types-of-online-seo-tools-the-professionals-use/?sh=5d6f9f0c2086) to rank well in the SERPs—like what I discussed in my [previous article.](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) With this in mind, it’s easy to see why people would want to use Google ads manager over other features in the advertising platform. In addition, Google Ads Manager is one of the most popular Google Ad Management tools. The service lets you manage any number of [AdWords accounts](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeslacouncil/2018/06/29/six-steps-to-help-business-owners-avoid-click-fraud-on-google-adwords/?sh=2a7d631e2e0e), except for the Google Display Network.  But if you’re like me who hate looking at Excel spreadsheets, this guide is for you! This article will teach you how to use Google Ads Manager to manage your AdWords campaigns effectively and efficiently. Let me show you what Google Ad Manager is, how it works, its benefits, including [managing multiple campaigns](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) simultaneously, and the [best way to optimize.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/)  ## Purpose: Google Ads  Before diving into Google Ads Manager accounts, allow me to discuss Google Ads.  Google Ads is one of the paid online platforms made by Google. It was Google Adwords until the company renamed it to Google Ads in 2018. This tool works when users search for a keyword and get the results on a search engine results page or SERP. When the result pops up on your screen, the engine will show a paid advertisement.  The advertisement is connected to the keyword you type in your search engine. Here is an example. In the picture, users type on the search engine “fitness coach.” ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/5otyCxNu4yzcGDLOc_2xTWBLXA8OYzI-v8T_jQ_NA778pZwsouu5y41QAq_3YLz6o3m5bK4GywIC3-8g2AC41q_TAO0lw6Qc0fuuI734LndcH63NbmiOreGtAyVRVNJWroZ71dtH) You can see the advertisement at the top of the search engine results page. It also looks similar to the natural search results, except for the word ‘Ad’ at the top.  However, buying an advertisement in Google cannot guarantee you a spot on the ranking. Many marketers and businesses also use this technique, competing for the same keyword on Google Ads. To understand how rankings work, let’s first understand how Google Ads exactly works. ## Google Ads: How Does It Work? Google Ads works under a pay-per-click (PPC) type of advertising. Marketers and business owners target a particular keyword on Google and make a bid on that keyword. They are competing with others who also want to target that said keyword. The bid you need to make is what they call a “maximum bid” 一means the maximum amount you are willing to pay for an ad. You can also set the maximum daily budget for an ad. You don’t have to worry about spending more than the amount you set for an ad per day. You, as a marketer, have options for their bids that you can choose: 1. The cost-per-click (CPC) indicates how much they have to pay when a user clicks on the ad. 2. The cost-per-mille (CPM) talks about the amount of money you’re going to pay per a thousand ad impressions. 3. The cost-per-engagement (CPE) is the amount of money you’ll pay when a user makes a particular action on your ad. Google will then offer a bid amount and assess and measure your ad to know the Quality Score. The scoring number is from 1-10, with 10 being the best score. The higher the Quality Score you get, the better the rank and the less you need to convert. ## About the Google Ads Manager Account  A manager account is one of the crucial tools to save your time, especially when you are a business owner or marketer who owns multiple Google Ads accounts.  It was My Client Center (MCC) before changing it to Google Ads Manager Account. The purpose is to let anyone, including you, manage and view their Google Ads accounts easily in one place. Today, Google Ad Manager Account provides a wide range of distribution channels via mobile, desktop, smart televisions, and video.  To set an example, if you have partners who want to advertise on your site, you can negotiate a contract and close the deal straight in Google Ad Manager. A site owner like you will see how much-unused inventory there is by managing direct advertising on the platform.  In addition, it centralizes discussions, buyer agreements, and channels to ensure that your messages are delivered to buyers.  Exciting, right? What else can you benefit from this tool?  ## Benefits of Google Ads Manager Account Managing multiple Google Ad manager accounts can be a time-consuming and complicated task. With the help of the Manager Account Manager tool, it is all made easy!  With a manager account, you can now experience the following with ease:  1. It allows you to manage multiple accounts from your phone or computer easily. 2. You can now access all your Google Ads accounts, including other manager accounts, from one easy-to-read dashboard. 3. Get combined invoices for all your accounts into one monthly invoice, including a budget, updates to easily [track your billing](https://www.forbes.com/sites/northwesternmutual/2013/07/09/new-apps-to-track-your-dollars/?sh=679e22ce214c).  4. Take control of your client’s account and manage all essential marketing activities. 5. Access performance comparison reports for multiple accounts at once. 6. You’ll be able to easily create and link Google Ad accounts without having to go through the hassle of switching over from your own through the Ad manager.  7. Use alerts to keep track of everything you have linked to your manager account. ## Steps on Creating Google Ads Manager Account Maybe you’re wondering how you can create your manager account. As a marketer or business owner who owns multiple Google Ads accounts, it is hard handling it all at once. Getting or making a manager account can make everything easy. Here are the steps on how to create a manager account from the homepage. 1. Sign in to your Google Ads account, then click Create My Account. 2. You can also sign in using the email you want to use in your new manager account. 3. You can also use the same email address in 20 different Google Ads accounts (including all of your manager accounts). 4. Write a name for your manager account that your clients would see in their account. 5. You can choose how you would like to use your account. If you need to manage multiple Google Ads accounts like your client, the account admin tool will help you manage them all in one place. 6. Choose your time zone and country. The time zone is for reporting and billing, and you can’t change it after you click it. 7. Select your preferred and permanent currency for your account.  8. Click Explore Your Account to start. In addition, if you want to create a manager account on the Performance page, here are the steps. 1. Open your manager account in Google Ads. 2. From the page menu (left side), click Settings, then Sub-account settings. 3. Click the blue plus button and select Create a new manager account. 4. Fill up the information into your new account. 5. If you want to invite users to your new manager account, kindly click Invite users to this account (optional). 6. Click Save and Continue. Another way to create a new manager account in Google Ads is on the Sub-account settings page. Here are the steps on how to do it. 1. Open your manager account in Google Ads. 2. On the left side of your page menu, click Accounts. After, click performance. 3. Click the blue plus button and then Create a new manager account. 4. Fill up the information needed on your new account. 5. If you want to invite users to your new manager account, kindly click Invite users to this account (optional). 6. Click Save and Continue. ## Google Ads Manager is Beneficial For Your Business With Google Ads Manager Account, your entire account is always in sync, so you don’t have to worry about missing anything!  Whether you are a veteran or just new to this business venture, exploring such Google programs can be your best decision for your business and assets.  Always remember, it is always a good way to start so you can get the full potential of technology to your advantage. Want to learn more? Here are other digital marketing and e-commerce related articles. - [Google RankBrain SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) - [How Does Google Make Money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/)  - [Google Voice SEO Tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-voice-seo/) Leave a comment suggesting another Google program that you would like me to cover in the next post! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top 10 Editorial Tools To Keep Your Content Organized Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-editorial-tools-to-keep-your-content-organized/ Published: 2021-10-28 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Productivity TL;DR: Individuals can get Trello for free, but businesses will have to pay $9.99 per team member per month. CoSchedule is a WordPress plugin that simplifies the promotion and posting of content, making it easy to remember. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line No matter what style of content you are trying to create, you must use the right tools. Any lack of content organization increases the chances of confusing readers and may result in content with poor readability. So, it is important to find the right editorial tools to keep your content organized. It will help you to save time and meet deadlines.   This post will familiarize you with some of the great editorial tools that will help you create and manage content effortlessly. Content organization is critical to my online success, but I have found that it is regularly ignored by many marketers, [bloggers](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/), and the like. To make your content creation endeavor successful, you must learn to value the organization of web content. Web content may mean blog posts for some and social media activity for others. It may even mean podcast content. For me, web content is [primarily blog posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/). The organization is key to ensuring my content doesn’t suffer from chaos and a lack of focus. Here are 10 of my favorite editorial tools that will take your blog to the next level. ## 1\. Trello Trello is known for its versatile and visual nature. This project management tool allows you to visualize the entire content process, from ideation to publication. It features a novel card system that allows you to move cards between columns and keep track of pieces of content. You can then create cards and move them through the process while you and your team go through the required steps. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/EqkbnV2nqGjlxcko39YbjTQhmdYp6ZvM_wWjOTFZKF4ECH0ZoUN5rRBxsE4kSx21eAjJPX-HGikcTzVQ8Yrpmh9J2sLppHHu_ypWKD-lKrwfftBlyxzD4qEVaTLx4tUlSzwHFGqT) In addition, you can assign cards to specific persons to track the pieces of content people are in charge of.  Because you most likely value your time, Trello allows you to set due dates for each card, so your project remains on schedule. The ability to work with multiple boards means you can dedicate one to different types of content and turn Trello into your content marketing engine. Individuals can get Trello for free, but businesses will have to pay $9.99 per team member per month. ## 2\. CoSchedule CoSchedule is a WordPress plugin that simplifies the promotion and posting of content, making it easy to remember. I think of it as the perfect tool for people struggling with the promotion side of content creation. It has an editorial calendar for scheduling your post’s publication and your social media promotion. CoSchedule then allows you to attach the scheduled promotion to the corresponding blog post. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4IaMsHBmDVmMYWq3QML1aj9_ypyvrw5LyomATgvT-hzkVSc46uUzIn1Ce84n1lrqvtfK1KupXqaJhY32GKpm3JyjdslvDeLYgV5c-WQNgTu7be0WfmzrOEnI_W_yD9vRTwvwt7io) Image source: digitalauthority.com After setting up your editorial calendar, you can filter it to view only social media posts, blog posts, or the output of specific authors. When your work is ready, CoSchedule will send you a reminder to let the world know about the piece of content you created. ## 3\. Pipefy This project management software shares some similarities with Trello. Instead of projects or tasks, you will be working with “pipes” when you use Pipefy. You can create different editorial pipes or client-onboarding pipes for different departments. More so, you can customize the columns within each pipe. This software allows you to track workflow, assign projects, set due dates, and put preset to-dos. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/j8bDZOiVQKC_hC7jGh1j-gOj8AMAGml0ItfEJTtl1qcSX4ANDXgJ3M2pMh8K-AY8nTcy2WQKSqeoxcSvEJNUu9zxMv6iaTLuMyrxcg_XH776ZpBnAeeUL94L30eqX9BBeHK6Rt5U) When you move a card to a new column, it can assign itself to the person responsible for its next stage. Pipefy also comes with a mobile app, which is great because its website isn’t very mobile-friendly. You will be happy to hear that Pipefy is free for teams comprising up to five people. For between five and 10 users, the price is $9 per user per month. Above 10 users, and the price goes up further. ## 4\. Google Calendar While you may already use Google Calendar, you can go the extra step of using it to organize your blog. Though it doesn’t have top-tier automation features, it has gotten the job done for me in the past. Google Calendar is available for free and allows you to create as many calendars as you want. You have the option of creating public or private calendars, and you can invite other people to view the calendar you have created. How do you get to it? 1\. Go to your Gmail account. 2\. Click on the square with the small blocks at the search bar’s right to reveal a dropdown menu. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/SusL3412XQs9FRSwiRVroUa9lYlTvI9SoW5k6gk4kcw2blVYkVuoJwNPWsEdeYubMdKF2CZgwFEE_cZaOAJjq59ntbb9f56sE_RFo-6Zj0dyQoyE7WLjPFSUAZDJj7NHcwc-Y1z1) ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LhelnfbjrOiJH5NK86ZbU7HwxfAcwBKHAhQRDidFG4TL66Mm_hUuKuE8uy7vPhgEYC2NZb_6ZW83sDzxeKQFssUBBTjkOc2dhS_bvudWUSnv4DzwpC6mvq4LG580Q4WGOA_-6Z_z) 3\. Click on the Calendar to get to the Google Calendar tool. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gcmKAlj99z40YHdEw1exXFsykZYlDrJFRDCL2RuRS8ncQpdmm-eNxdWQ3lT57wHkL06HBgABqtoAH9Vy6L42BAB9mNl-oPQj6bAgypuJPNVkPkj5p2Nj7kYxjt5GsrRm244Ye6t-) 4\. Click “Create” in the upper left corner to create an event. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Q3aTo6FEJxVF50p4hOm1kHqZNdO1s_RA_lDsyk4iIdKG04Nw1GhZrsBBKN19sSCotMJC9eQyENerGmDEqH-1xmxNvhggb3Ml6hPI5Pc1gUXCpooWvLMnjO0pwnSh0UISJolFjhau) 5\. Title your event. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/o7mo_2VJN_LCcJcYBlAZ565plfaE-RqCBoaVvOqKxUYK-jVIJglMFZyRVH3mxFxvk6fM2-fqOR5khYGCfhTH3mJYP2QVS1DMutPkqbIlCKZ6KNImOCq355YLKgAG3SxGOylZggDB) 6\. Under “Guests,” on the right side, enter the email address of the person you want to share the address with. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/SWpmmS2FrgcLtdUZcXfq0i1KDHNUE8IzQVycAEnKBDDg9qyJlNiQouUNLTHgaTCok5mGoriGVLz-wc2GvrdSa8LUMf6LWgcUkfO7_0r7JOy9FVRPjLcJ8BYARfKj7T1WZFHcwthy) 7. Click on save.  If you schedule a blog post on your calendar, Google will notify the people you selected.  ## 5\. Buffer You may find that content promotion will be a difficult part of your marketing strategy. It can be tedious when you have to keep track of numerous social media platforms. But Buffer makes your content promotion plan easier by allowing you to promote your content in a single place. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/WQzSIhaF8NSpTfbpiXCdKuw-5jfT1EDape-nb0edrBqT5eURsr4y6NrUi6hva8FvsS-B5FcljaoaZ_aQ6rKmp8dlxY18X_xhzlu1Y_-75Oyfn780Ybgj-atv4itq_on-M-DH9zjn) It links all your social media accounts and serves as the hub for your social media sharing. You can customize a message for multiple social media posts on one page. With a single click, your message will be at the doorstep of the public. Buffer has a free version worth trying for your content promotion. ## 6\. Hootsuite Hootsuite allows you to post on 35 different social media platforms. You can further schedule your posts for a later date if you don’t want to post your content immediately. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5XcXQjlPa3O0CvuSl0ta6XcowanWGTioynSYXE674PqgaAsUdj69Rn_3bxbu_Uw6us_MwCmHZBa5gV4Bwt1oy52lGbNP0VAU4VQLU5kqbbRVZ9ZCQtlF0EVRizGY1x7EeU2TAvTM) In addition, Hootsuite offers social media monitoring, content curation, and promotion analytics, which will be important to content marketers. This tool has free versions that will be capable of executing your promotional plans. ## 7\. Google Docs Google Docs is almost underrated when blog content creation is concerned, but few tools are as useful and powerful. No other tool makes it easy to collaborate with other individuals and keep track of previous revisions while editing the same document in real-time – all for free! [Go here](https://www.google.com/docs/about/) to create a Google Doc. Click on the blue button, look to the top, and click on the blank document with a plus “+.” And just like that, you have your own Google Doc. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/jJJdaF2o1yQUpG1avfyiiFOo6-YY__w3P-uU1E0pLTu1Xy7LCFX_3UULUGjAomPJZVvZAzWcWm9MRwGuJX4Azsf16AUSduKZVmCFej0FhITbHN5Q4a5XK1ZMJTmerGGXfhbrVsC_) You can share the document with other people by clicking “Share” in the upper right-hand corner. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/5BiSUu9aYHkTlMYCfGPp2MvgdpLY9EutDuIkpfNRSgYcIGAbsLA4keFvEJrnILKveuVdQiGgufGluNjGvGO4cuVekWUoW6HyNcX_4WhpmV37eOzMXHaDHjLVUDhL0n1vKCvmhYiN) Type the email address of the person you’d like to share the document with, and they will be able to view and edit it whenever they want. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/WLTxROMo2gM6tC7jdUJWXiIyvtBAfRuSp5UV9-G8OXs7CY9d8HMN65M2fse7ZxSzLOc_OMIA-iWpq0KFuMv_j3M7wFJZyo4ErcHZU-TOukW4vZ6m65c77ukpVNSSvIGFjtm8sB8n) Google will notify whomever you share a document with once you do. ## 8\. Asana If you want to manage a team of content marketers and visuals are not your concern, Asana will be great for organizing your strategy for content marketing. While not as visual as, say, Trello, I have found that Asana offers a superb view of my publication calendar. This project management tool allows you to create projects and tasks within those projects. Within those tasks, you can further create subtasks. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zP-ioYDBKx65BIA_B5L4kr1sc5B-HEzq0WnC2tZxwicasHr26-P516nIKQjR0e0O4t8MoeVhML_4LUjuPFGtExfT8C4FCO6jIEffJX_Um8HGszSMRMkhNEtKV55Z1PfyjKcFI6i4) You can also put in place due dates and assign subtasks within each content task. Asana tracks the progress of each project and lets you know when people are meeting or falling short of due dates and how many tasks are outstanding before completion. It has a search bar that helps you to find tasks that are in progress or already completed. Asana comes at no cost for teams with 15 people and $9.99 per month for each member in larger businesses. ## 9\. HubSpot HubSpot is a comprehensive marketing software that could make a dent in your pocket. But it’s $200 per month starting price point is worth it for the clean content marketing it promises. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/EtbRkeWu_3TgyJcDkJQldnv6-KT0sR-d6c_dsMUQ0ByeU-GIZyhb8o8hbCu-YzbINb5ZqukZ9xPBHgQkvAwx9TYFs_8RKenTodlintBK4zxFZSLhxSZLS9SC9WGfd7ljYswp1uTo) It centralizes your data, tools, and team members in one location while allowing for some design for [landing pages](https://alejandrorioja.com/landing-page-optimization-tools/), emails, and blog posts on your own. HubSpot also gives you access to various SEO, blogging, and social media tools. A major reason for having organized content is automation, which HubSpot helps you with for your marketing. ## 10\. Kapost Kapost allows you to organize your content marketing plan visually. You can map out your content strategy over days, weeks, months, or even years. It can go as far as you like. It also offers analytics features that help you identify bumps impeding your goals and journey to success. Kapost’s analytics highlight how many shares, clicks, views, and downloads you have on your content. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/zn0a5o00UqKIGLmLfxa73vwhhgpWQiSbq7RCXqV482EqaHFtf-G6V1NZOexn3lLPSwB2ajeGYEvHEP_0cS9IxbmkzpgsVcJW_gBXD3H46NFuQZMxIMF47Mz6oWTDYCMwloN5tMnH) Like some of the tools I have highlighted, Kapost lets you and your team easily work together in a centralized location. Its editorial calendar helps you keep track of every step in the content marketing journey. It makes sharing your content on social media easy because you no longer have to open multiple tabs. ## Finding the Editorial Tool for your Content These tools I have highlighted have their strengths and weaknesses, and some certainly work better than others.  It is up to you to try them and see which works best for your content creation needs. Also, don’t be afraid to switch from tool to tool when you discover that one isn’t helping you get organized. What tools do you use to organize your content? If you have any other tools to recommend, please share them with me in the comments! Learn something new from this article? Read more to streamline your content creation: - [](https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnrampton/2015/01/26/5-great-editorial-tools-for-your-startup-blog/?sh=60711b3f5acd)[How To Write Pillar Content: A Step By Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/) - [5 Must-Try Content Marketing Trends To Boost Your Traffic In 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) - [Geofencing Marketing: How Does It Work?](https://alejandrorioja.com/geofencing-marketing-how-does-it-work/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Geofencing Marketing: How Does It Work? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/geofencing-marketing-how-does-it-work/ Published: 2021-10-25 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Geofencing can be a challenging marketing tool, but it will certainly help once you know the ins and outs of this marketing strategy. With so many competitors nowadays, geofencing marketing can help target your competitor’s consumers and drive more sales and traffic to your business. Sometimes you have to be a little creative to get your message across. That’s where geofencing marketing comes in. With geofencing, you can target your audience with a simple touch of a button, and they can respond accordingly by completing a form or entering their location or contact information. Geofencing marketing has helped me a great deal in my marketing strategy. Let us dive deeper into its benefits and limitations, and how it works to improve our marketing.  ## What is Geofence Marketing? A [geofencing marketing](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/07/12/location-location-location-why-geofencing-might-be-essential-for-retailers-this-summer/?sh=3f41d484258a) strategy is a way to target a specific audience based on their location. This allows me to promote my brand or service by building a connection with my target customer. Geofencing is a technology that uses location-based advertising to target users’ smartphones based on their current location. This type of advertising is local-based marketing that relies on the technologies we have today, such as Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, and RFID (radio-frequency identification) Through the different technologies mentioned, businesses using geofencing set a perimeter based on location. The “geofence” creates an invisible barrier in that specific area. When consumers enter the “geofenced” area, location-based ads marketed by businesses will be sent to their mobile phones.  By using geofencing marketing, businesses are allowed to widen their audience reach through location-based marketing. Using geofencing to generate ads is most useful for my business when you want to: 1. Identify and understand consumers’ behavior 2. Know your competitors and target their customers 3. Boost and drive traffic to your [local business](https://neilpatel.com/blog/drive-more-customers-with-content-marketing-for-local-business/)  4. Widen and engage your target audience  ## How does geofencing work? Geofencing marketing is a great marketing strategy to target customers in the vicinity of your business. But how does it work? Geofencing may seem complicated and challenging at first, but it becomes simpler and easier to use once you know the basics. In general, geofencing marketing works by: 1. A company creating a geofence or virtual barriers over a specific area and then generating ads for that geofence. 2. A mobile user entering that geofence and becoming one of the company’s targeted audiences for advertising. 3. The mobile user starts to receive ads from the company through in-app ads and notifications or search and display ads. If you own a company, you can put geofences in the area where your company and competitors are. In this way, Your company can also target the competitors’ customers, driving more traffic and customer engagement to your targeted ads. This is how geofencing works. What can be a geofencing ad? A geofencing ad can be a discount promotion or simple invitation to a company’s physical location.  Companies can then deliver these geofencing ads through mobile apps, including search and display ads. The geofencing ads can also trigger in-app notifications. Because you own the geofencing ads for your companies, you can control when the ads appear. You can choose to release the geofencing ads when foot traffic is better to drive more customer engagement. ## What are the benefits of geofencing marketing? Whether you are a small business owner, a store owner, or a marketer trying to get your company’s foot in the door with potential customers, geofencing is an important marketing strategy.  It has several benefits for marketers and business owners to target their customers based on certain geographical locations. ### 1\. Geofencing marketing helps with local marketing. Most people prefer [physically going out](https://www.billups.com/articles/how-covid-19-changed-consumer-behavior-movement-and-the-ooh-landscape) of their homes to walk and browse physical shops they pass by. This is the perfect opportunity to generate targeted ads for these people.  Because of the shift in the behavior of consumers, the potential for location-based marketing is starting to become in-demand. With geofencing marketing, the company can target a wider reach of audiences who prefer browsing shops and businesses on foot.  ### 2\. Geofencing helps in understanding consumer behavior. Geofencing marketing can get information about consumers and their purchasing behavior in real-time. Companies can use this information to improve targeted ads and marketing strategies to attract even more customers. This can also open up new insight into your customers’ lifestyles, habits, and interests. Geofencing can also reveal other outlets that consumers are interested in, such as billboards or rods they frequently pass by.  In return, companies can use new consumer insights to identify the best possible signage and billboard locations to place targeted ads. ### 3\. Geofencing helps with brand awareness and consumer engagement.  Geofencing helps companies boost their exposure, raising brand awareness among the targeted audience. These kinds of ads remind customers in a geofenced area that a certain company exists. As a result, consumers become aware of a company’s brand and specific location.  Geofencing marketing also helps boost and improve consumer engagement. You can identify what promotions, CTAs, and targeted ads work best and drive the most traffic for your online and physical stores through location-based marketing.  Based on the data you can gather from geofencing, your company is given a chance to refine and tweak your ads to drive better user engagements.  ## What are the limitations to geofencing marketing? Geofencing technology also has its flaws. There can be times when a mobile device registers in a geofenced area when it should not. It’s even harder for some areas in busy locations that are not easy to measure. Because of the possible flaws of geofencing marketing, you have to make sure that your geofencing is 100% accurate. Ads have to be as relevant and significant to your target audience as possible.  Geofencing can also have scalability issues because it is so highly targeted and in-demand with most business owners. In this case, it might be better to target a segment of consumers specifically interested in a company’s product. Although, geofencing ads are more expensive than digital ads. You should be prepared how much [geofencing marketing can cost](https://www.groundtruth.com/faq/how-much-does-geofencing-cost/#:~:text=CPM%20is%20the%20most%20common,CPM%20for%20Connected%20TV%20campaigns.%5C) you for a better-targeted consumer engagement. ## Tips for implementing geofencing to a company’s marketing strategy In today’s digital world, geofencing is an essential marketing strategy, especially if your company sells anything online. A geofence is a tool that makes it easier for marketers to find consumers when they search for the company or product.  How do you get started? Here are tips on how to implement and integrate geofencing marketing into the company’s marketing strategy. ### Determine the Ideal Size of the Geofence  The size of a geofence determines the cost a company should pay. With geofencing marketing, larger does not mean better consumer engagement. Customers who are far away but are included as recipients of a company’s targeted ads might not have the time to visit its physical store. As a result, the company spent geofencing money for nothing.  Establishing geofence areas with smaller perimeters is better for nearby customers to pop by your physical store and look at your promotions.  Some of the target locations you can geofence include: - Where your physical location is - The location of your competitors - Streets and roads nearby to your location - Trade shows and event places ### Know your audience  Knowing and understanding your target audience is the key to driving better results for your company. Learn about their demographic and preferences to know how you can improve on targeted ads.  When you understand how your audiences think, you can improve your marketing strategies to ensure relevance to your target audience.  ### Promote Actionable Ads You can’t just highlight your services or what you sell. Since they are targeted audiences, more or less they already know what your business is about. Instead, create discount promotions for in-store purchases and reward points to encourage your audience to purchase something from your business. Through these actionable ads, you give consumers a reason to purchase something and visit your stores again.  ### Don’t forget to include a compelling CTA. A compelling CTA can often help you seal the deal. Some of the [most compelling CTAs](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) include: - Click here - Shop now - Order here - Learn more - Buy now ## How to track geofencing marketing campaigns? Tracking KPIs and other metrics can help you determine whether the geofencing marketing campaigns were a success or not. Some of the metrics that you need to gauge include: 1. Ad Impressions or Ad Views – number of times ads are seen 2. CTR or Click-through rate – number of clicks ads have received per number of impressions 3. CPC or Cost per Click – the highest amount you pay for a click on your ads 4. Cost per Visit – total number of visits to your stores over the total cost of your marketing efforts 5. Cost per Action – the amount you pay to generate conversion 6. Walk-in Rate – the percentage of people who come in and visit your store  ## Final Say  Geofencing marketing can be a helpful tool in driving traffic to your business. Knowing your target audience and generating ads for them will help you improve on marketing strategies and boost your sales. You can generate geofencing marketing campaigns for your brands to [increase sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) and become a successful business owner with the proper steps. Let me know in the comments below whether you have tried geofencing marketing and how it helped your business. Liked this article? Know more about Sales and Engagement: - [How to set up your e-commerce business](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/)? - [How to scale up your business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) - [How to make million dollars with your e-commerce store?](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Is Pogo Sticking And How To Avoid It? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-pogo-sticking/ Published: 2021-10-19 Updated: 2024-05-23 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line If you’re at the top of the SERPs, don’t get too excited just yet. You still have to deal with Pogo-Sticking. The battle for position number 1 on page #1 is fierce and will require a lot of research, analysis, and great content to combat your competition. Often, we are making a lot of small, insignificant changes to our site repeatedly instead of taking the time to make a few big changes. This is a huge mistake because search engines will take one look at our website and see that we are trying to manipulate them. They will then penalize us for this behavior by lowering our site’s rankings. This post will help you understand what is Pogo sticking and how you can fix it. [Are we attracting enough users?](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2019/08/30/page-interactions-are-you-attracting-enough-users/?sh=1bd9bc1c3f71) This is always a vital question for every site owner. As technology progresses, the digital competition gets tougher. So, what should we do? We have to level up our game!  Remember, [page interactions matter](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) to us. Many people use the same search term to find different results. Avoiding pogo-sticking can serve as evidence that our site has engaged an audience. Pogo-sticking is the practice of switching from one website to another to find information. Ideally, they click on the top result.  Users put in a search term and click on the first result that pops up before they know it; they are already clicking back only moments later because it’s not what we were looking for. Yes, it is a common mistake. In a nutshell, pogo-sticking refers to the act of hopping from one search result to another because users are dissatisfied with the [first website](https://www.forbes.com/sites/sundaysteinkirchner/2013/01/10/make-your-website-stand-out/?sh=1728a9b373fe). This is an indicator that the website was not relevant to the user’s search queries. That’s right! Pogo-sticking is bad for our SEO because it tells search engines that people leave our pages because they didn’t find what they want. Don’t worry; in this post, we’re giving us a handful of techniques we can start to know more about pogo-sticking and best practices to avoid it. ## Common Reason for Pogo-Sticking Pogo-Sticking occurs for several reasons; it refers only to the latter cause of high bounce rates. High bounce rates might be a sign of success, but pogo-sticking never is. Search engines are designed to satisfy users, so we may soon find our entries at the bottom of the list due to pogo-sticking. To avoid such unfortunate events, it is always important to educate ourselves on the reasons behind them and know how to avoid them. There are a few common causes for pogo-sticking. It can be caused by poor website design and targeting the keyword and phrases either irrelevant or too broad. These causes can be either content-related or non-content-related. Learn to determine which is which.  ### Speed of the Website Who wants a lag website when searching, right? Even for me, this isn’t very pleasant. Speed plays a big role in the search engines as well as our experience as a user. If we click on the result of the website, it takes time to load. As a user, we might lose interest or waste our time so that we might click back. ### Number of Ads If we use multiple ads on our webpage, it will spoil the user’s experience. If I am going to be the user, I may leave before I can read it. So, avoid putting in many ads. ### Autoplay Video If I am a user and I am searching for something on our website. Suddenly, something played on it, a video or a sound. I am going to be surprised if that happens, and I’m going to click back. If we want to put a media file with our website, put it upon the user’s request. Bad experiences will result in pogo-sticking. ### Disable clicks or copy-paste If we disabled clicking on our website, it would irritate the user. For example, if I am the user, I will leave our website without checking it first. We can’t protect the content on our website by that method. If anyone wants to copy our content, we can strike a copyright notice. ### Incomplete Content If we made content on our website, make sure to put the complete details of it. For us, we think that it’s already complete. But to some users, it may not. My advice: try to study another page and take it as an example for making content.  We find that our content isn’t indexed in the listing of a search engine. We should write a good amount of content like blogs and articles to get Google’s attention. Just remember to use a theme that supports HTML5 because Google is a computer-based program.  ## Difference Between Bounce Rate and Pogo-Sticking Many times, people get confused by the two. After reading the pogo-sticking, we might get it mixed with the bounce rate. But what is the difference between the two? ### Bounce Rate A bounce rate is the percentage of a page that enters a certain website; they leave it from the same page without any action. And it is another vital metric for digital marketing strategies. We can bounce a reader or a user like me from a website by just typing the URL. Then open a tab, click on another site, or maybe click the back button to leave the site. It is essential to keep our bounce rate manageable. A high bounce rate indicates that our website has a low relevance. It will lead to a poor user experience, and for me, it is really bad publicity for our page. Our page is not that convincing yet for the users to stay. A low bounce rate can indicate that more page views and engagement will lead to more conversions.  ### Pogo-Sticking Pogo-sticking occurs when a user performs a search, clicks on the result available. But suddenly, the user will quickly click the back button. The user will go back to be redirected to the search result page. There’s a huge possibility that the user might find another site. ![What is Pogo sticking](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Ky7xgU1PvKNiMvtQ6GI150rvz9mSk0EW8jTT7F7xALyVgqNxnuRfwKXs6_Wtgv0hcihe53BIsRJAvNIu_gadKvmGKsGGr-8iTbhQq4B7U63OlI3M_6ztsIk49qyPFEPLBiH0QtM=s1600) ## Best Practices to Avoid Pogo-Sticking As I mentioned, pogo-sticking is bad. It shows that the user did not find what they needed on our site, which concludes that our website is irrelevant for that keyword. There are many causes of a pogo-sticking problem, but there are lots of practices to avoid it. Google and other search engines only want to show their users with the best users for their queries. It analyzes the content for the users to read. If that happens, it will simply downgrade the ranking of our page for future users. They will show a better one available. ![Pogo sticking](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Xf_D8lnR7Pn6VsoqAKLsVqM2flBXp67KIrDc6QegJIvZP8DmCn5skV6FW8gpIHKqkz6wXfGWfZZvZeanqCaUkC110s_WgCyDegL6E8epATz2o-ks8JB8WWvhtiFj8WxsXQGGpxLn=s1600) Source: Tezblog In the image above, let’s say that I made a query with a certain search engine. The search engine responded with their top 4 results that were relevant to the keyword I searched. We will label the results as a, b, c, and d and position them on their rankings 1, 2, 3, and 4. These a, b, c, and d are unexpected results of our queries. The letter a is better than b, and b is better than c. Suppose that our website lies on position 3, letter c, and our content satisfied my query. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/dCa3PAB6n0pf-zMIRkic04jPnWrVlJLG7Q-5PwA-liu2nsr_pqV6u9kib2mLJbQV7J9iTMMDmlp62p1zQqhgBnftLy6xOEo76NYl5NCXdp9cWeqEJqriWz5hCI3_FiguDOyVaK85=s1600) Source: Tezblog When I click on the website with the rank 1, letter a, I am not satisfied and click back. I will repeat the process with the 3rd result, letter c. I read the content, and it satisfies me; I will stop searching for that particular keyword. If the same thing happens to many users out there, that’s pogo-sticking. In this case, the search engine will find that the 3rd result or letter c is more relevant than a letter a. But we can’t say that this is more relevant with only clicking and reading with one user, me. It needs more data to analyze if it is relevant. Different search engines want to give the users their best experience. They might downgrade the letter a and improve the rank of the letter c. We don’t want that to happen to our website. Here’s some advice to avoid it. ### Create Relevant Content Maybe the reason why some users click back is that we provide incomplete details on our website. We need to ensure that the content on our page is crafted with information related to the target keyword. It should cover the important information the user is searching for. ### Use the Right Font Size Make sure that our website is readable with not less than 16px. Some people rarely read the entire text. We can provide them with headings and subheadings. ### Update Old Content Updating our old content with new information can freshen up our website. Many things change from time to time. It will make the users excited because of the updated information. ### Improve Page Loading Speed Speed is an important aspect of scanning a certain website. If we are unsure how to improve our page loading speed, there are various online tools for checking our loading speed. ## Pogo-Sticking Problems is Easy to Solve One factor we should not neglect is pogo-sticking. This isn’t just frustrating; it may hurt our SEO. With this post as your guide, I hope your site is now more usable, which will increase [user loyalty](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/).  In addition, no more wasted clicks as our site is not annoying our users anymore. With enough tools, ideas, analytics, and driven by improved usability, this will get people easily to find what they’re looking for.  Let me know in the comments below if you have experienced pogo-sticking and how you overcame it.  Liked this article? Know more about Page Interactions and Content Engagement: - [What is SEO?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) - [How To Use Google Analytics: A 2020 Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/) -  [Top 14 Tips For Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Add Preloader In WordPress: A Step By Step Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-add-preloader-in-wordpress/ Published: 2021-10-15 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: First, it is important to know the difference between WordPress.org vs. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Boring and plain websites always get users to keep them from coming back. [Good design](https://www.forbes.com/sites/kateharrison/2018/12/21/6-ways-to-improve-your-website-design-to-boost-sales/?sh=6b5ff0bd8876) and well-thought functionalities of our web are some of the most effective ways to let our site grow. If you are only familiar with the basic features of WordPress but want to explore more, this article will walk you through one of the most useful and commonly used ones i.e adding preloader animation to WordPress. In this article, you will learn what is preloader and what are the different methods of adding it to WordPress. Ensuring that your site loads quickly is not an option but an essential web management element. You can do several things to load the site resources quickly, thanks to the preloader feature on WordPress!  Adding a preloader animation to my WordPress can be the best decision for my site. This way, I get to maximize the user experience.  Here, I will walk you through the amazing features of WordPress to keep our blog, website, online magazine, and more into a more interactive one. Of course, with the help of a preloader in WordPress. So, what are we waiting for? Get ready to optimize the performance of our site for better search ranking and conversion! ## What is WordPress?  [WordPress](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/07/28/what-can-you-build-with-wordpress/?sh=6c1b474027cc) is an open-source [content management system (CMS)](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/) that allows users to create and manage all types of our websites. It’s free, simple, flexible, and offers a variety of blogging formats.  It has more than 60 million users in more than 200 countries. The majority of whom are small businesses or individual and aspiring bloggers in our times. We use this platform to create anything from a personal blog to an e-commerce site. There are thousands of [plugins](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-wordpress-plugins/) for WordPress that allow us to do anything.  We can add social media buttons and create slideshows for managing our businesses. And they are all free!  Before, WordPress was only a tool to create blogs. Now, we can create our website by only using this. Here is my review of its pros and cons, tips and tricks, and features to learn more about [WordPress.](https://alejandrorioja.com/) ## How Does WordPress Work?  First, it is important to know the difference between [WordPress.org vs. WordPress.com.](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-com-vs-wordpress-org/) According to the [WordPress company](https://wordpress.com/go/business-website-guidance/wordpress-com-vs-wordpress-org/), *“WordPress.com is a service that helps you build a website using the WordPress software, while WordPress.org is the software itself, which you can use to build and maintain a website on your own.”* I also experience difficulties while using this because I am only a newbie. WordPress is used in tons of different ways. Here are some ideas: 1. [Start a Blog](https://alejandrorioja.com/start-a-blog/) 2. [Sell Online](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) 3. [Create Your Websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/rank-and-rent/) 4. [Create Your Best Digital Marketing Articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) 5. [Create Awesome Logos for Your Website](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/) See? There are a lot of great things on how we can use WordPress! Next, let’s answer the question, what else can I do to upgrade my WordPress site? ## What is a Preloader and When To Use It? A preloader is an animated icon or a status that displays the progress of page-load in the background. When visiting a site, it is downloading the site’s content. These different parts of the website load at different speeds. Text, HTML code, and CSS are downloaded faster, whereas images and videos take longer to load. If we have a few images or videos on our website, we don’t need to add a preloader. Instead, focus on [speeding up our WordPress site](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-speed-up-wordpress-site/) and performance for faster page loads. If most of our content is images, photographs, and video embeds, our users need to wait for them to load. When a user visits our website, it may feel slow before the site even loads.  Adding a preloader can help fill the gap during page load and show a progress indicator to our users. We can preview what our blog post will look like in WordPress by clicking the Preview button. WordPress will open a live preview of our blog post in a new window with a preloader so that it loads faster. Now that we’ve got that out of the way let’s look at how we can easily add a preloader to our WordPress website.  ## How to Add a Preloader Animation to WordPress ### Different Methods in Adding a Preloader Animation In using WordPress, we should learn how to use it first. I am also not tech-savvy, so learning a new platform can be quite hard, especially as technology progresses. But as I’m exploring it, I discovered that we could add a preloader animation. Internet users hate the lag when browsing. They don’t like to wait for it to load. But screen animations play an important part in a website. It grabs the user’s attention to buy some time browsing their website. Preload animation using WordPress can do the work of tricking the users.  In classic HTML sites, knowing to code is a huge point for installing a preloader. However, WordPress has several available plugins that we can use to customize or add preloader animation.  A little help on how to properly put a preloader animation is essential. Without further ado, here are some methods I use to put animation on our website. #### Using WP Smart Preloader 1. Install and activate the WP Smart Preloader plugin.  2. Upon activation, we need to visit the Settings >> WP Smart Preloader page to configure our plugin settings. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aIZz0-8eMm9k-u-4_KovCcSfMZCLZjAKxrN19BWN6dxDkW73X-609J6fSYc7nx6OGjP9TRHtZ-WoMhrmT-5nOBtEhXwbb5IZLZ844rOWXX4_Jk3SKpbw_lTjokDLA8R3vffFtnP0=s0) 3. It would help if we chose a preloader style or page load animation. Choose from six built animations, or we can upload our custom HTML and CSS. 4. We can make the preloader appear only on our homepage by checking the ‘Show only on Home Page’ option. 5. Scroll down to the ‘Duration to Show Loader’ section. We will need to specify for how long our preloader will show. The default option is 1500 milliseconds, but as I say, we can customize our website. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qvxDgKFr5sCL1Y9_cWjmcrSnYl9EJMWgH2YXGBODpCC1wuqip_kgQ2_VflBA-xK1tRcgh-ssyVKOuDru-PcH9ttc-me6BEtXv0z_ZCYEBpmPTU_ffiu3ZcnZlMLRmH2Qhi1ZGbil=s0) 6. Don’t forget to click the ‘Save changes’ button! We can now view our website to check our changes. Enjoy! #### Using Preloader Plugin  1. Install and activate the Preloader plugin.  2. It would help if we visit the Plugin s>> Preloader page to configure our plugin settings. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/LSByD8APorLT_EpG7Z3AEHf_-NQJndjd9si0dfQGf6jofDq1DSpglDGO6vieMaImeZELzsLP1Z3d5-bwjh-LFSHFqpQK7s9_g7yqv0NaXi-GZoGLBWv2MNxy-U8PqHra1YDomSTB=s0) 3. Enter the HEX code for a preferred background color. Default option is #FFFFFF (White). We can use an online picker tool to find the HEX code of the color we want. 4. Provide a URL of the chosen preloader image. The plugin also comes in the default settings, so customize whatever we want. 5. If we want to see our animation, find a link to download our animated preloader image on a third-party website. We can upload our chosen image to our WP-content folder and paste the URL there. 6. Choose where we want to display our preloader. We can choose to display it on all pages of our website or select a specific section. Our choice. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/FVQIG_vyVeJLjQJFMtkAUaLqai9JggnkvWhr24emDtNGteOOeEtnE8Y2UWfxuI104x9p0U7nN3_ZrsngkoFB2-ud111pwzQOMlVewV50aIxOX4PNZNMUJ5TuyhMmAafsQoE3hOW3=s0) 7. Finally, we will see instructions about adding the following code to our WP theme’s header.php file. 8.
8\. Don’t forget to click on the ‘Save changes’ button to save the settings. We don’t recommend changing and adding the code to our WordPress theme. It will just get wiped off when we update it. And if we are using a child theme, it is fine to add the code of our child’s theme’s header.php file. 9\. For a better solution, we recommend adding code using a separate Code Snippets plugin or just a site-specific plugin.   Here’s the code that we will needed to add: function wpb\_add\_preloader() { echo ‘
’; } add\_action( ‘wp\_body\_open’, ‘wpb\_add\_preloader’ ); 10\. Just a reminder that this code will only work on WordPress themes that are compatible with our wp\_body\_open() function. 11\. This specific method of adding code will guarantee that our codes will stay even if we update our theme in the future.  12\. And once we have added our code, we can check our website to see the changes.  ## Wrapping It Up We hope this page helped you learn how to add a Preloader to your WordPress site easily. Instead of encountering a blank page, our views will now be greeted with an animation that may catch their fancy and keep them engaged long enough for the page to load. Let me know your insights and experience in the comments below.  For your next read, choose some of these posts: - [Top 8 WordPress Competitors: Which One To Choose?](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-wordpress-competitors/) - [5 Features That Make WordPress Great](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-speed-up-wordpress-site/) - [How To Set Up Your Ecommerce Business From Scratch: (Niche, Audience Selection, and Growth)](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) Let us know in the comment section the next WordPress powerful feature you want us to cover! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## What Is Shadow Banning, And How Do You Fix It? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-shadow-banning/ Published: 2021-10-12 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Social Media Marketing ## Table of contents So you’ve posted something on social media, but the post did not get many likes, shares, comments, and even any kind of engagement. But the internet is fine. How come no one has seen the post at all?  You might’ve gotten shadowbanned.  When an account becomes shadowbanned, it becomes invisible to everyone. Like the term suggests, the account becomes a shadow; only the owner will see the posts.  It can be quite stressful for online users not to be able to interact on social media. So it’s best to avoid getting shadowbanned. ## What Exactly is Shadow banning? Shadowbanning happens when an account posts something on social media but is not seen by anyone. What’s even worse is that the account will not get notified, or it will not know for sure if it’s shadowbanned or not.  Many believe that content posted online is only successful when it has reached many people worldwide and has gained enough [engagement](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/).  With shadowbanning, posts will not reach an account’s target market, and no engagement will happen. The posts are left alone, and no one sees them.  Shadowbans block contents and accounts of users without them knowing for sure that they have been blocked. For example, if I am a shadowbanned user, the site on my end functions normally.  I can engage and see posts of other people. However, other users cannot see my posts. I am invisible to them. This is how shadowbanning works.  ### When my account is shadow banned, who is to blame?  The main reason why shadowbanning happens is usually because of a change in the site’s newsfeed and search algorithm. These algorithms belong to social media companies, so they would not want to admit that they are exactly the ones doing shadowbanning.  ## Shadow banning Sites Sites, where shadowbanning happens, continue to grow day by day, and no one has the right list of sites where an account can get shadowbanned.  However, popular sites like Twitter, Facebook, Tiktok, and Instagram all have accounts that encountered shadowbanning already. Generally, there are four major types of shadowbanning. - Accounts usernames and hashtags do not show up in [SEO search](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/) - Follower engagement does not improve or even show signs of decrease - Certain features that are blocked - The account is temporarily banned but then goes back to being normal later on. Let us dive deeper into how shadowbanning happens on popular social media sites, how to know when an account is shadowbanned, and how to prevent it from happening. ## Twitter Shadow ban People asked Twitter whether they shadowban accounts or not, and they released a [blog post](https://blog.twitter.com/en_us/topics/company/2018/Setting-the-record-straight-on-shadow-banning) saying that they do not. According to the blog, Twitter upfront said that, ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6Q9raCfYYNsvmXLTga3935hvbJjQhaNBs_luDbffuTBNdoBei72fZEOBRy35fexFJSHlxEBLqKKsxOtfRE0L504f4UivdT7E2um5qOtLEzzyAoZSlWgX3ip0aIAk02_hHCz4HDGL=s0) To make it sound easier, since Twitter ranks tweets and search results, if Twitter assumes that someone is a troll, they can penalize that account by assigning a very low and almost invisible rank to my tweets.  In other words, the account may get shadowbanned.  ### How to avoid getting shadow banned on Twitter? From the same blog post, the people in Twitter also mentioned some points that will help them decide whether an account is bad for the internet or not: - Get the email verified - Having a profile picture - Make the account active - Chat with contacts - Avoid spamming tweets - Don’t use automation tools ### How to know when I am shadow banned on Twitter? There’s no definite way of knowing if an account is shadowbanned on Twitter. But with recent advancements online, a site called [shadowban.eu](https://shadowban.eu) has claimed that it can identify if an account has been shadowbanned on Twitter.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_Na9HxGXFQnLq116KErUGJrnXbh7q82N4I_jZia7B5Bk5s5aNBJHLVflfwzuHIbiqFZ1BuwKO9pZ6Sn3LPdPwx3u4v1WWK_XpbJYqUTo408UIKKFYuiHv5t7ZxU3WAinx0-6CKwg=s0) ## Instagram Shadow ban Another popular social media website is Instagram which also claims to not shadowban accounts, according to the [released statement of Instagram’s CEO](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/instagram-shadow-banning-is-real_n_5e555175c5b63b9c9ce434b0).  While this can be true, Instagram also tries to clean up content by changing its algorithm and penalizing accounts that are deemed “inappropriate.” Even though a post does not go against Instagram’s Community Guidelines, the app’s algorithm can still hide the post if it is not right for a diverse audience.  ### Why am I shadow banned? Here are some good reasons why an account is shadowbanned on Instagram. - Schedule postings by using bots and automated tools - Buying followers - Using tons of hashtags that are irrelevant to the post - Repeatedly use the same hashtags - Using inappropriate hashtags ### How can I know if I am shadow banned on Instagram? Like Twitter, there is no definite way to know that I am shadowbanned, but other online apps can help. [Triberr](https://triberr.com) is one of those.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/TiViYcpFrzSmDPXr7BMK-hVXiZSKsRb6M-75GVurnH2eGHT1LsYekjclpcPkURFod9LX4S3k5ZFgbLYKzJI-ybmGf3ZeUC1z_ARRCSCQO9uZrx6x4ACdyieRAMy2L3n02dTN9bJp=s0) ## Facebook Shadowbanning  Facebook’s ad policies and community guidelines strictly follow the [“Remove. Reduce. Inform”](https://about.fb.com/news/2018/05/inside-feed-reduce-remove-inform/) rule. To make it simpler, Facebook removes content that violates its community guidelines and reduces informational content that is misleading and undesirable. So, if Facebook always reduces my content, it’s a sign that I might have been shadowbanned. Facebook also removes external links that may be clickbait.  ### How to avoid getting shadowbanned on Facebook? As shadowbanning can be a real thing on Facebook, here are some tips to avoid the chance of getting shadowbanned: - Only share true and valuable content - Use inappropriate hashtags - Do not use automated bots to gain likes and followers - Avoid being spammy ### How to know whether I am shadowbanned on Facebook? There are no tools or apps that can help identify whether an account is shadowbanned on Facebook. But, one thing I can do is log in using my friend’s account and check if my posts can be seen.  Another thing I can do is check to see if my post engagements are going well or if there is a drop in them.  ## Tiktok Shadowban Tiktok has been getting trendy nowadays for making short videos and mini vlogs. And yes, people may also get shadowbanned on this site.  While there is no direct statement regarding shadowbanning on Tiktok’s community guidelines, it can still happen. ### How do I know if I am shadowbanned on Tiktok? Just like the other popular social media sites, there is no direct way of knowing whether an account is shadowbanned on Tiktok or not.  Here is a step-by-step way of trying to find out whether an account’s videos do not show up on anyone’s For You Page. If a video has received traffic from the For You Page, then the owner of that video is not shadowbanned.  Here’s a simple way to check it. 1. Open a video that has been live for at least 72 hours after suspecting an account being shadowbanned. 2. From the video, click the “…” button on the bottom right. 3. Then, click on the analytics icon. The analytics page will list all the traffic sources of that specific video. If the video even has a single view, the account is certain that it’s not shadowbanned.  ### How to end TikTok shadowban? There are ways to end Tiktok shadowban. Once you know why an account is banned, it can be easy. Here is a simple procedure to end shadowbanning. 1. Delete videos that would have violated Tiktok’s community guidelines. 2. Cleared all my TikTok cache. 3. Continue posting videos regularly (at least once a day). 4. Wait for 2 weeks and then reexamine my analytics page if my videos get traffic again. 5. Uninstall and re-download the app. 6. After re-downloading, Ask for help from the Tiktok support team.  ## Social Media Tips to Avoid being Shadowbanned As shadowbanning is not directly an explicit error on social media, it still happens. Social media websites would not publicly admit that they shadowban accounts, so the only thing that we, as users, can do is to avoid getting on their nerves.  Here are certain social media tips to avoid being shadowbanned.  1. Avoid violating different apps’ community guidelines. 2. Don’t use automated bots or act like bots by engaging in inappropriate and irrelevant hashtags. 3. Don’t use banned hashtags. 4. Avoid being spammy by posting the same content and making the same comments repeatedly.  5. Be consistent in posting content at the best time of the day. 6. Don’t buy likes and followers. 7. Respect each other in social media communities.  ## Shadowbanning is real; try to avoid it. No matter how all the social media sites will tell us that shadowbanning is not true, it happens, and it can happen to anyone. Although there is no direct cause as to why we get shadowbanned, there are preventive measures we can take to avoid this issue.  We must pay attention to each website’s community guidelines and ensure that we do not violate anything. Post relevant and meaningful content and avoid being spammy regarding hashtags, comments, and any other engagement with people online.  Being shadowbanned is frustrating and may get on one’s nerves, especially if it is difficult to point out. Hopefully, the explanations and tips that I presented will help users understand how shadowbanning happens to avoid this in the future. Leave a comment below if you have been shadowbanned before and share how you overcame it. Liked this article? Know more about SEO and Content Engagement: - [What is SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) - [Tips for Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) - [How can Social Media help your business grow?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-social-media-can-help-your-business-grow/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Write Pillar Content: A Step By Step Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/ Published: 2021-09-27 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Pillar content is an eBook, a guide, a report, or any substantial piece of information that may be split down into many blogs or pieces. It’s a big piece of content that necessitates a great deal of thinking, research, and effort. You must first analyze the foundations of your site before you begin pillar composing content. Understanding your audience is the first step in generating pillar content. The better you understand your audience’s demands, the better material you’ll be able to give them and the more likely they’ll be to share it. Thus, you may begin preparing once you’ve determined what your target audience requires and which keywords are important to your sector. If you follow me regularly, you must be aware I place the utmost focus on [content that provides value to my readers](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) and actually help them learn.  I am also aware that constantly producing high-quality content can be a very tricky thing nowadays, for sure.  But you probably already know that publishing content regularly is a great way to increase traffic, inspire engagement with your customers and in the end increase profits.  > A common mistake that marketers make is choosing quantity over quality because they believe if they post more often that will drive more traffic to the webpage.  This might not be the best strategy for your business. If you want to have a trusting following, you might need to “dig deeper” in a subject and produce a top-notch piece that will naturally draw your target audience to you. To do that, you need to invest time in creating a great *pillar content* that will not only draw people to you but also increase your reputation in your customers’ eyes in your industry.  If you are interested in what’s pillar content, how did it start, and how you can use it to [improve your SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), let’s dive in.  ## The beginning of Pillar Content  One of the earliest articles that can be found on the internet where pillar content is described and talked about is [this one.](https://problogger.com/10-techniques-for-finding-blog-readers/)  In the article called “10 Techniques for Finding Blog Readers,” the author Yaro Starak puts pillar content on the top of his list telling the readers: *“…A pillar article is usually a tutorial style article aimed to teach your audience something. Generally, they are longer than 500 words and have lots of very practical tips or advice. This article you are currently reading could be considered a pillar article since it is very practical and a good “how-to” lesson. This style of article has long term appeal, stays current (it isn’t news or time-dependent) and offers real value and insight. The more pillars you have on your blog the better…”* This article was published on 28th February 2006 which means that even then people were starting to appreciate high-quality, informational content more than just general, easy articles.  Since then many things have changed in blogging. One of the most important changes is the number of words per blog on average.  Nowadays, the [articles are quite longer than then with better SEO](https://flux.la/how-to-write-seo-articles/), and they try to dig deeper into the subjects.  We tend to create longer, more informative pieces that will stay on the internet for years to come and through updating them, they will continue to be relevant and provide visitors with important information.  ## What is Pillar Content? Think about the word “Pillar”. It is a structure that is made to support a building.  But can one pillar hold the whole building? Most certainly not.  Usually, there are many pillars throughout the whole building and together they are able to hold the structure up.  Every single one of them plays an important role in holding the building up, and they are equally important in that sense.  If we apply that metaphor to content writing, pillar content is a big piece of informative content that can be broken down into many sections, pieces, or materials.  All of these pieces, sections, and materials are very important in making the blog piece the best piece it can be. Pillar content can be an eBook, a guide, a report, or another type of a large piece of content that can be turned into many individual blogs or articles.  Pillar content has a few basic elements and those are: 1. It tries to answer any possible question a person has on a certain subject  2. It solves a problem, gives an answer to a question, or gives comprehensive tutorials 3. It’s trying to be much more in detail in comparison to other content available on the subject  4. It is interesting and trustworthy  5. It can be easily broken down into sections, e-mails. Infographics, or other smaller pieces of information This type of content is what [builds the trust and loyalty of your readers](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/). Moreover, these types of content will continue to be relevant to new visitors long after you’ve created them.  ## What is a Pillar Page? So far, I was talking about blog posts or articles. But you can also go a different way about this by using Pillar Pages.  A pillar page is a separate page on your website dedicated to a section of your site.  For example, my blog is encompassing tips and information for entrepreneurs and everything connected to digital marketing.   But in that area, I have a lot of things to say. That means that there are sub-themes that I cover that fall into separate categories.  If you visit my page “[My Best Digital Marketing Articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/)” you will see what I mean.  The Pillar Page is the place where you can find anything connected to digital marketing for your business to thrive, and it is sectioned by categories so it is very easy for visitors to find whatever it is that they need help with.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/GkE9puRygpMXAtTQOFpZqGOEC797HgzTpGT1SOXtzyRHmrOU-FisLNhw6-rhKtYyat81ZSpnBUuO8sFajpRgODI6Y0itVTx9-O3_44LdvssIcL2CjM1CO7O6IQwf-KsPSHlStJ9i) Visiting the Pillar Page gives you an opportunity to have everything on digital marketing in front of you, and many other related articles.  This way, you can narrow it down without much effort. It is clear, helpful, and organized- serving the visitor the best that I can. You can use this type of clustering content in whichever way you see fit that would be the most beneficial to your visitors.  ## How to Write Pillar Content? Now that you have an understanding of what pillar content is and why it is useful for your business, let’s talk about how you can produce it.  ### Understand Your Audience  Before you even start the pillar writing content you have to think very deeply about the basics of your blog.  Remind yourself of the purpose of your blog and what type of people would look at the content that you provide.  Understanding your audience completely is absolutely necessary in order to produce content that will be invaluable to them.  The better you understand your audiences’ needs, the better content you will provide for them making your pillar content successful.  There are a few ways in which you can better define and understand your audience and those are the following:  1. **Building Buyer Personas**– or also known as marketing personas are generalized representations of your ideal customers. Building a buyer persona for your own business will help you in understanding your current and prospective customers which will result in giving you guidelines to what content you need to focus on producing. With this strategy, you can get to know your customers on a deeper level and understand their specific needs and interests. There are many templates on the internet that you can use for this purpose. 2. **Google Analytics**– is a very important tool when it comes to understanding your audience and looking at their behaviors on your page. Looking at your Google Analytics will tell you a lot in terms of what gender is your audience primarily, what is the average age of your audience, where are they located geographically, how much time they spend on which pages, and many other things. All of this information can help you in defining their needs and maybe predicting their behaviors.  3. **Check out your competitors**– a good form of market research are your competitors. You can take some valuable information about the people that are their target audience. Chances are, many of those people are also your visitors especially if you’re all ranking high on search engines.  It is not enough to just know who your target audience is, you need to be aware of what type of needs they have which you can help them with. Think about how you felt when you were starting out in the industry.  - What types of questions did you have?  - What types of issues were you worried about?   - What kind of information would have made the biggest difference to you then?  - What were your expectations? - What type of pillar content are your competitors offering?  All of these things are probably the same questions that upcoming entrepreneurs have.  Try to also do research on what the target audience is saying on social media and what kind of mindsets and interests do they have. Look at their complaints, their comments, what they share the most, what they agree or disagree with, etc. When you know all this, you can have a clear idea of what type of content does your target audience need. Once you’re confident that you have a great understanding of your audience and their needs, you can continue with the pillar content process.  ### Choose the right keywords Any good content has to be supported by relevant keywords to have a good impact on your page’s SEO.  That is why you need to have a very clearly defined [keyword strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/) before starting to write your pillar content.  Keywords are very important and they will help you come up with ideas around them for important subjects connected to the main one you want to speak of.  There are a lot of options on the Internet when it comes to keyword research:  #### Google Trends It is probably one of the most used and most easily accessible keyword searching options out there.  You can use it pretty easily, just type Google Trends in Google and you will see a search bar where you can write the word you’re interested in.  You can also visually see the popularity of searching a certain word in a given period of time.  You can see in which periods this keyword is used more and in which less.  For example, if you see the image here you can notice that the term SEO gets spikes around the end of the year/beginning of the new one in the last five years.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lsdPmA4Qq3zNGcl8wRhhQDvRraEkXVtUkj8GjOky7C8WNSNPSht_-0iRBQDZqztOs8cW0igIwChAhCP_0xuZQV_sXFHUrOfNOPcha7iQaJE_DGTdnANg9engN5tdz9oZIG_f7uJa) Another great option that Google Trend has is comparing two or more different keywords to see which one performs better.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/KPZbxOaLuD9lXDPL2wi6tNR9oegaMzWsLeqCmExvnQiMCG7158qBnNJzSgFQruws4ilPINCqKuPSkLnHkZo1WrVgUY565VbRjBR0i2RenynB2FBf-c5HMi9ZPs0qYQaTOcq_lDW0) From this comparison, you can see that using SEO would be much better than using Search Engine Optimization even though they are both the same. You can also see which countries search for these keywords, related queries, and much more information.  #### Keyword Sheeter  Another free tool that you can use for keyword searching. This is the right tool for you if you are looking to generate lots of keyword ideas in a short amount of time. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/YJGcNOld9LtYea5K0weeRzILSZjD4ChRFTYcnXadjgOrcpDnebHv6Ns3CKrkUnHMDfxQLnzDhIcChw4ft2b7k6vBch8vRuTKq33ZlekIeHDqNXqEulwGSyfkvELf8w3yizUuys1R) You just put one keyword, and the tool gives you a list of generated ideas connected to that keyword.  However, it is a quite basic tool and doesn’t provide much more information beyond that. It also gives you the opportunity to use positive and negative filters. This means that if you add a positive filter, the results will include that word. If you add a negative filter, the results will exclude that word.  This can be a very helpful tool for SEO purposes.  Other tools for keywords that are free are:  - Keyword Surfer  - Answer the Public - Keyworddit - Keywordtool.io - Questiondb - Bulk Keyword Generator - Google  ### Make a Plan  Once you know what your target audience needs and which keywords are relevant for your industry, you can go ahead and start with some planning.  If you want to be organized and effective, I advise you to not skip on the planning process.  Just starting to write things on a certain subject can be hard and can lead to confusing, unorganized content that is difficult for the readers to follow.  That is why planning before starting to produce the content is wise. What works best for me personally is to figure out the chapters or in which general direction will my content go.  It is much easier to figure out the chapters and then write several articles that are 500-1000 words each than it would be to aim to write the whole big content at once.  Once you write all the sections you can piece them all together and edit the content.  Ideally, you wouldn’t write and edit the whole piece in one day. If you are pushing too hard you’re likely to make mistakes or miss important information.  You want to make sure that you are producing the best content on the subject and that requires a lot of research and fact-checking, so take your time.  So, once you have a plan, start the writing. ### Content Production  It has been a long way to here, hasn’t it?  But the good news is by now, you should have a few pretty good ideas on how to proceed.  That means that the hardest part is done.  Now you just have to sit down and use all the information that you gathered so far to produce an amazing high-quality pillar content.  You want to create content that your audience will want to share with people and use it for their own professional endeavors. While writing your content, pay attention to the following things:  1. *Title-* it’s the first thing that the people see. According to [statistics](https://www.singlegrain.com/blog-posts/content-marketing/turning-a-lead-into-a-prospect-with-mofu-content/), 80% of people will read the headline but out of them, only 20% will actually click on the link. This means that the title of your content is the first contact with your audience and it will be the deciding thing in whether or not they want to learn more. Try to make it catchy, but informative.  2. *ClickBait-* one of the worst things you can do is try click-baiting your audience. The clicks of 2 seconds don’t count and you will make sure that most of those people lose trust in your page. High-quality content is what you need to stick to.  3. *Hook-* some people will click on the link, but not all of them will finish reading it. This means that you need to write an attention-grabbing hook that will motivate the visitor to keep reading until the end. You can try interesting facts, anecdotes, news, etc.  4. *Personalize-* tell a personal experience or story. People like to be reminded that there is a human being behind the content and that you have been through your fair share of hardships.  5. *H1, h2, h3 tags*– having a pillar content without a clear structure is just a waste of content. Use images, graphics, videos, bullet points to make the content easier for reading.  6. *CTA/Invitation*– for the most motivated readers that kept going to the end of the piece, you need to have a clear CTA or invitation for them to join/comment/propose/answer or whatever other action you want them to perform.  ### Link Building and Promotion Once you crafted the best possible pillar content that you can, backed up with lots of good information and checked facts/statistics it’s time to promote it.  There is a lot of competition on the internet and your great content has to be backed up with credible links so it can rank higher on search engines.  If you include links that lead to authority sites it will make your information feel trustworthy and fact-checked which is always a good idea. Also, once you have your pillar content and you publish it, promoting it frequently is another thing that you have to focus on.  You can:  - Link the pillar content on the first page or the about page of your website - Boost your posts and share them on your social media accounts - Add internal links to the pillar content, specifically popular posts  - Inform people via a newsletter - Update the pillar content when you have new information ## Benefits of Pillar Content If the benefits of pillar content, at least some of them, should be very clear to you by now. 1. **Increasing customer loyalty**: providing high-quality, thorough and fact-checked content to your visitors will increase their loyalty and they will be motivated to come back to your website more often when they need help. 2. **Lower bounce rate**: if the visitors that visit your page are satisfied and the content answers all of their questions they won’t bounce 3. **Longer time spent on your page**: the same applies here if visitors find what they are looking for and are interested in reading the whole thing the time spent on the page will increase. 4. **Constant traffic**: if the pillar content is good, it will be relevant for a long time and that means it will bring constant traffic to your page.  5. Better Google ranking: if you produce a long, high-quality content with relevant backlinks that gets shared on social media, your [Google rank will improve](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) for sure. ## Bottom line To sum it all up, pillar content is a serious type of content that requires a lot of planning, researching, and plain effort.  But on the other hand, that effort is highly likely to produce amazing results for your page and business overall.  At the end of the day, it’s not about how many people will click on your article or open your eBook, but it’s about how many of them will read and enjoy the content you produced and share it, recommend it, believe in it.  If you found this content helpful and want to become a master of content writing, check the following posts:  - [Top  SEO tools (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) - [Top  Content Marketing Trends that will boost your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/)  - [Best On-Page SEO Tips to Rank First on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) Leave a comment letting me know which aspects of content writing you want me to cover next.  . --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Twitter Scripts: Accept all Follower Requests, Unfollow, Like All Tweets, and more Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/ Published: 2021-09-17 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Twitter is a social media platform that allows you to communicate with anyone in the world. With the right script, you can easily manage your Twitter account. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Twitter is a social media platform that allows you to communicate with anyone in the world. With the right script, you can easily manage your Twitter account. Twitter scripts allow you to accept all requests from your followers and unfollow all followers with ease.  You can also find several growth hacking tips for Twitter, which will give you the boost you need. When accepting twitter requests, you have two options, either you will make your account public or you will use the script. The same goes with unfollowing everyone on Twitter. The process is very simple and is beneficial to everyone. Since my last post about some [Facebook scripts](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script) was very well received, I decided to make a similar one for Twitter. Enjoy! Over time, I will be adding more scripts. Let me know which ones you want next! ? ## 1\. Accept all your Twitter follower requests ? Ever wanted to accept all your Twitter follower requests easily? Here’s how you can. You got 2 options: - Make your Twitter public so that all your requests are automatically accepted - or run the script below 1. Make your Twitter public To make your Twitter public, Go to More > Settings > Privacy and Safety > Then untick the “Protect Your Tweets Box” ![](/images/posts/inline/488330ec-make-your-twitter-public-1024x500.png) that should do the trick! Another method is running the auto accept follower script below ### Steps 1. Open the javascript console (cmd + shift + J) 2. Paste the code and hit enter var inputs = document.querySelectorAll('div.css-901oao.r-1awozwy.r-13gxpu9.r-6koalj.r-18u37iz.r-16y2uox.r-1qd0xha.r-a023e6.r-vw2c0b.r-1777fci.r-eljoum.r-dnmrzs.r-bcqeeo.r-q4m81j.r-qvutc0'); for(var i=0; i < inputs.length; i++) { inputs.click(); } If you are curious about the code does, here it is: The first line *var inputs document.querySelectorAll( ..)* finds all “Accept” buttons next to your follower requests The next line *for(* *..)* , loops for all the found buttons and finally *inputs.click();* clicks on all buttons ## 2\. Unfollow all Twitter Followers ? If you really care about your follower/following ratio, then you can use this script to unfollow everyone on Twitter: var inputs = document.querySelectorAll('div.css-18t94o4.css-1dbjc4n.r-urgr8i.r-42olwf.r-sdzlij.r-1phboty.r-rs99b7.r-1w2pmg.r-1vsu8ta.r-aj3cln.r-1fneopy.r-o7ynqc.r-6416eg.r-lrvibr'); for(var i=0; i < inputs.length; i++) { inputs.click(); } Don’t worry, it will ask you to confirm one by one ![](/images/posts/inline/255e7715-image.png) ## Bottom line Hope you found these [Twitter](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-twitter-make-money/) growth hacking tips and scripts useful! I plan to add more scripts here over time, but wanted to get some out quickly. Let me know which script you need next and I will make it happen. Just drop a comment below. Here are other scripts you might enjoy: - [Facebook growth scripts](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script) - [Pinterest growth scripts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-mass-follow-on-pinterest-scripts/) - [My best articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 X (the platform formerly known as Twitter, rebranded July 2023) has continued reshaping the surface area. As of 2026: - **The blue check is now part of X Premium** ($8/mo basic, $16/mo Premium+, $22/mo for verified orgs) — the old "request verification" workflow is dead. - **Profile view counts** are visible to logged-in users on every tweet; the "who viewed my profile" myth that powered a generation of clickbait apps is finally moot. - **Voice tweets** are still in the product but rebranded as "Voice Posts" and limited to X Premium subscribers in most regions. - **API access** for legitimate automation costs from $200/mo (Basic) to $5K/mo (Pro), so the bulk-scripting era is over for most operators. For 2026 growth: ~611M MAU per X's last self-reported number (April 2025). Engagement still favors threaded, citation-friendly posts that get quoted by ChatGPT and Perplexity — the "X as feeder for AI engines" play is the dark-horse 2026 SEO move. --- ## Top 4 Effective Ways To Improve Your Ecommerce Conversion Rate Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/ Published: 2021-09-07 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: E-commerce ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line There are several techniques you can take to enhance your eCommerce conversion rate. Some of these are offering free delivery and ensuring your price is competitive. You can also include abandoned cart features and social proof components such as reviews and testimonials. Optimizing the conversion of your site is a useful approach to raise the conversion rate. Hence, it is wise to study your industry’s typical conversion rate and thus build a plan to improve your site’s performance. You have set up your website, put up a great [content marketing plan](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/), and have now started attracting visitors to your website. But the real challenge still stands! How do you turn more visitors into buyers?  With the average e-commerce conversion rate around 3%, even a modest 1-2% increase can result in tens of thousands of new sales each month.  ## What is a good conversion rate? ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/bP9W7R-Pblvb1qfCtxGA-oIL7By_0TtPIM1qquoR6M-Xb_Gak_GdVlDrPOv9_L2CLJuLwYhWcAnUZiX4uqJOLV3wUdZbwfu0WlwTJkC6m_3YSzWDmSE0gftwFIMi57gJaMwukWtJ) There are many strategies you can use to [improve your ecommerce conversion rate](https://databox.com/how-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate) from adding free shipping and making sure your pricing is competitive to implementing [abandoned cart features](https://alejandrorioja.com/edit-remove-woocomerce-checkout-fields/) and adding social proof elements such as reviews and testimonials.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qEfC8oKcPhHQ4BkWJrwynjcSkIr6FbhKAVS4ZIizRQM6z1cahxY7w7k5f7N3NYxpHNWO8W-1Gl73PnkKXJ1slE7XZyhuuWWWdPGtYtvbQ5xyHwtcd6Tq07r_93gxU9FNAwG5XQqM) However, in this post, we’re looking at a handful of tactics you can start to implement today to increase your conversion rate.  ## Tips to increase ecommerce conversion rate ### 1\. Know your baseline numbers  The first thing you should do is view your website analytics. If you don’t know your conversion rate or trust your numbers, then you won’t know how you can optimize your site. Sam Ruchlewicz of [Warschawski](http://warschawski.com/) says, “Ensure that you have robust, consistent data pass-back to all the platforms driving traffic to your site – digital ad platforms assume that every conversion is incremental unless told otherwise, which is a dangerous assumption that leads to decreased profitability and lots of bad outcomes.”  ### 2\. Start at the bottom of the funnel  It can be overwhelming to try to optimize your whole site at once. Instead, start on your checkout page.   “The best place to start your conversion optimization efforts is at the bottom of your funnel,” says Bruce Hogan of [SoftwarePundit](https://www.softwarepundit.com/). “For most eCommerce websites, this is the checkout flow. Any AB test wins that you have at the bottom of the funnel will have a bigger impact than a similar improvement higher up in the funnel. If you improve the conversion rate of your final purchase page by 5%, your overall sales will go up by 5%.”  ### 3\. Include a product guarantee  Another way to increase sales is to add a sense of security. People want to ensure they are buying a product that works and won’t break down after one use.  ”To improve your eCommerce conversions, it should be a no-brainer for your visitors to purchase from your site,” says **Jonathan Aufray of** [Growth Hackers Agency](https://www.growth-hackers.net/strategies-ecommerce-store-increase-conversions/).  “Adding a guarantee for your products will substantially increase your sales. For instance, adding a badge saying 30-day money-back guarantee will help you with sales and don’t worry if your products are good and you’re confident in them, almost no one will ever use this guarantee.”  ### 4\. Add a personal touch Finally, people buy from other people, not robots. When you show that you care, this can go a long way in building customer trust and loyalty.  **“**One tip for improving conversions is by having a personal touch to your website,” says **Anh Trinh of** [GeekWithLaptop](https://www.geekwithlaptop.com). “People like new things, and having a different look from other websites can help catch people’s attention and even improves the chances that they’ll buy your product.”  ## Wrapping Up! Optimizing your site’s conversion is an impactful way to increase the conversion rate, so it’s smart to develop an understanding of the average rate of conversion in your industry and consequently developing a plan which can improve your site’s performance. In conclusion, optimizing your website can be daunting. I recommend starting small and running a few experiments. Make sure you have a clear call to action to improve your website’s discoverability and invest in enhancing the experience of customers. As you see results, you can scale it and then move onto the next tactic. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top 14 Tips For Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/ Published: 2021-08-31 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Marketing, SEO, Social Media Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Engagement rates are a measure of the number of people who have connected with content on social networks. The higher the engagement rate, the more successful your campaign. Social media influencers use it as evidence that they have an engaged audience. There are several creative methods for increasing social media participation. All you have to do is stay focused on your objective and provide quality content on a continuous basis. Do the people who follow you on social networks interact with you?  Do you want to increase this interaction and have more engagement?  While it’s relatively easy to get new followers or share publications, it takes creativity to get comments and build communication.  In some of [my previous guides](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/), I have always stressed the importance of creating audience-focused content to get engagement. In this article, I will further elaborate on the most effective ways for your audience to communicate with you on social media by which you’ll increase the engagement rate. ## What’s the Social Media Engagement Rate? Engagement on social networks shows how many people have connected with the content you market to them. Based on this metric, you can determine if your followers prefer texts, photo posts, or video content, and what topics capture their interest. [With this metric, you can test the interests of your followers](https://sproutsocial.com/insights/social-media-metrics/), and based on that, you can customize your future behavior on social networks. The high engagement rate shows that people are interested in your story and what you offer them. You can track your engagement rate level via liking, commenting, and sharing of your audience. Although getting only likes isn’t relevant, monitoring the number of likes in combination with other indicators can be very helpful. Engagement rates are often used by social media marketers to determine the success of a campaign, while social media influencers use it as evidence of their engaged audience. Also read: My guide on how to get more views [on youtube here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) ### How to calculate the engagement rate?  You calculate it by using the total number of interactions on a post and dividing it by the number of followers of the account. Not every social media has the same criteria for engagement. The criteria for Instagram would include likes, comments, and saves. On Facebook: likes, comments, and shares. On Snapchat: views, screenshots, and replies. The result of an engagement rate is presented as a percentage and can change over time. Engagement rate is considered one of the most important metrics when reporting on social media analytics. It defines a value defined in numbers used to measure the success/failure of specific content on social media – to what extent users/followers are engaged with a brand/service on social media. There are accounts with thousands of followers, but with a very low engagement rate. That’s an indication of a lack of connection between the followers and the brand/user. ## 14 Tips for Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate ![](/images/posts/inline/c0bc4d99-increase-social-media-engagement-1024x682.jpg) ### 1\. Content Marketing Content marketing is [a form of marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) aimed at creating, publishing, and distributing content to a target audience with the goal of engaging existing and potential customers. From this general content marketing definition, we can see that the ultimate goal is to engage the audience. If you want to successfully sell your products and services, you need to build a relationship of trust with your potential customers. A great way to achieve this is with content marketing. However, a content marketing strategy shouldn’t only involve the creation of specific content, that is, quantity, but that content must contain certain elements that will encourage your audience to interact, or the content must be of good quality. In the next few sections, I’ll talk about ways to get your audience interested in your content and get it focused on a particular activity, first and foremost, sharing content on social networks. The number of posts shared on social networks is very important, given the total number of posts per day on social networks. You certainly want your posts, which you have put a lot of effort and time into, to get social approval through as many shares as possible. Likewise, the more your content is shared on social networks, the easier it is to reach your target audience because it’s hidden among your audience’s friends and will achieve a greater reach for your posts. Assuming the content you create is informative, educational, or entertaining and gives some value, if you follow some steps (building authority and conveying emotional stories, encouraging curiosity, designing visually appealing content, and inviting your audience to action), you’ll encourage your audience to interact. ### 2\. Get to Know Your Audience Before you publish your content on social media, and even before you create it, you need to know what motivates people to share certain content. Research has shown that some of the motives for people to share content on social networks are: 1. To entertain other people, 2. To present themselves, 3. To build relationships with other people, 4. To be involved in events, 5. To support a brand. These motives can be reduced to the main one – to connect with other people and feel useful in doing so. That’s why one of your goals in a content marketing strategy should be to make your readers feel “intelligent“ and helpful when sharing your content. Write about some of the latest developments in your industry, give practical and useful tips that solve certain problems in an easy way, all regarding your product or service. So, first, do good research on what your audience wants and then start creating content that interests them. ### 3\. Publish Regularly Everything is constant. For your page to continue to find public despite the algorithm of some social media, you must regularly publish new posts. Of course, it’s not necessarily about posting every hour, that is, quantity, but rather in their regularity. Posting twice or three times a week can be considered good practice. On the other hand, it’s better to avoid publishing 5 times in the same week and then nothing for a whole month. ### 4\. Choose the Right Timing to Post Some social media such as Facebook allow you to determine when the majority of your fans are online. To [optimize your visibility](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/), it’s therefore useful to know on which days and times your users are most active. By publishing at that time, you increase the chances of interactions. ### 5\. Be Mindful of Your Demographics Some social media statistics can be particularly helpful. This is the case, for example, with the demographic data of the people who like your page, which allows you to have the insight in, let’s say… Is your audience mainly made up of men or women? Are they rather between 13-17 years old, or 18-24 years old, or 25-34 years old? This valuable information allows you to better understand your fans and therefore, better understand what’s likely to please them. ### 6\. Include Visuals and Infographics It’s no secret that a post incorporating visuals always generates more interactions than a simple text. This is why each post must be accompanied by a photo or better yet, a video. It’s the same for your texts. Don’t hesitate to play with the emojis or decorate posts with slight touches of colors. ### 7\. Write Relatively Short Posts Some social networks (like Twitter) limit the number of characters through which you can express your ideas, while others, such as Instagram or Facebook don’t limit the number of characters for posts. Regardless of the limited number of characters or unlimited, be careful not to create too long posts. Your followers don’t have time to read those. They are in a hurry, so they tend to value short content, which they can read at a glance. ### 8\. Opt for Quality Hosting What every webmaster looks for is to market their social network and monetize it, which is impossible without good hosting. The uptime and the ability to scale up should be on your list of most important features to look for when leasing a web hosting service. Cheap, shared hosting might be something to start with when making a decision on hosting your own social media but you can find yourself running out of resources soon. Some social networking grows slowly, while others scale at a fast rate – [from several hundred to several thousand users](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) in a short period of time. If this happens, your hosting company should be able to handle the additional load. You’ll have to invest in cloud or VPS services to accomplish future goals in terms of growth. Some [highly evaluated plans for social networks](https://www.websiteplanet.com/blog/best-mysql-hosting/) come with MySQL hosting. Choosing a provider offering this type of hosting is good for various reasons that go into the favor of your social media stability and engagement rate. All of the reasons come from the database lying in the core of the MySQL hosting – MySQL database. This database is well-known for being a highly secure and reliable database management system used in popular web apps. It assures 24/7 uptime and also unmatched scalability to handle even the most deeply embedded apps using a smaller footprint. ### 9\. Think in Corporate Way For social media engagement, the posts that work best aren’t necessarily those that talk about its products or services. In reality, it’s rather those who speak of the life of the company who are the most successful. So don’t hesitate to combine your more promotional posts with other more corporate ones such as photos of your employees, your meetings, and company parties. ### 10\. Organize Contests [To generate engagement, nothing beats a contest](https://smallbiztrends.com/2017/03/social-media-contest-ideas.html). People, in general, like free things. Most of them, when they see a contest on social media, says “Why not, I’ve got nothing to lose.“ They will like your post, share it, comment on it, and might like your page in order to participate in your next contests. ### 11\. Create Interaction The easiest way to interact with your audience is to ask them a question. For instance, you can end a post with the simple stuff: “What about you?“ or “What do you think?“ or “What are you doing this weekend?“ It will provoke their reactions. This isn’t the only way. You can create surveys – ask a specific question, suggest answers, and your fans vote for the one that suits them best. To make it more fun, you can associate an image or a GIF to each response in a poll. ### 12\. Boost Your Posts Another technique to create engagement: advertisements and post boost. To be more visible with your company page, the solution is to pay, either by creating an advertisement or by boosting your post. The advantage is that you can precisely target the people you want to reach by indicating, for example, that your audience is made up entirely of women of this or that age. ### 13\. Gamify Your Posts This technique consists of using elements from the game to encourage your audience to perform certain actions, such as completing levels and moving to the next one as in a video game, winning an ultimate prize, which can be a coupon, a gift, etc. ### 14\. Share Other People’s Content One way to increase engagement is to share other people’s content on social networks. Not only do you get your name in front of a new audience, but if their content is relevant and valuable, they will be more likely to engage with that post.  They will be motivated to follow you if your social media feed can supply them with useful information, whether it is yours or not. Some of the things you could do are: 1. Answering a question or comment 2. Sharing the content with your audience 3. Re-posting the content to another social network (for example, retweet on Twitter) ## Wrapping Up! As you can see there are countless creative ways to increase social media engagement. All you have to do is focus on your goal and be consistent with quality content. So if you are strategizing your content, I am sure these tips will be useful to get better audience engagement. If you liked this article, you would also like to check my other guides here: - [Review of Ezoic: features, and functions](https://alejandrorioja.com/ezoic-review/) - [Top ways to combine email and social media marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) - [How to boost your SEO using Schema Markup](https://alejandrorioja.com/schema-markup/) Let me know in the comments below which topic you would like me to cover in my next articles. Your suggestions are always welcome! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Find And Validate Someone’s Email (Tips And Tools) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-find-someones-email/ Published: 2021-08-18 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: A search engine, such as Google or Bing, is a great place to start when trying to find email address information. A search engine scans and sifts through a vast number of databases and websites at once, so searching through a web engine can be your first step. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Almost everyone is now familiar with email, and sending your advertisement by email has a better chance of being read. There are several ways to find an email, one of them is to conduct a web search. When looking for email address information, a search engine is a fantastic place to start. You may also use Social Media, Hunter.io, Clearbit, email permutator, and LinkedIn sales navigator to discover an email. Yet, if you are a digital marketer, a legitimate email address is a must-have. The usage of third-party technologies such as Neverbounce is one sure-fire approach to ensure that the emails are valid. Despite the tons of communication mediums that we have today, I still strongly believe email is the most impactful. In the past, the top marketing methods for a business would include cold calling and direct mailing.  Cold-calling, however, had some problems, namely that it is time-consuming, and it has a low chance to get prospects through the phone. Direct mail used to be useful, but in the advent of today’s technology, snail mail is losing its value.  Almost everyone is now acquainted with email, and there is a much higher chance of someone reading your advertisement if done through email. You can also send up to thousands of them in minutes, and allow your prospect to look over your email during their preferred time.  Especially today, with data suggesting that checking email through their mobile device is [becoming increasingly common](https://www.inc.com/alison-davis/if-employees-arent-reading-or-even-opening-emails-here-are-5-things-to-do-differently.html), and that [building personal connections will be more critical](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2019/01/14/three-predictions-for-email-marketing-in-2019/#467b70fc1533).  That is why cold email marketing is slowly gaining traction, especially after being considered as a [top-quality marketing channel](https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/303978/email-still-the-king-of-roi-says-dma.html).  But a cold email campaign is useless if it does not reach its intended target, or reach no one at all. Email marketers, therefore, must know the email addresses of their target prospects.  But how will they, if they do not know the email addresses? Here enters different techniques and tools involved in the search and verification of email addresses, for them to be added into an email listing.  In this article, I will outline what I deem are the easiest and most effective ways and tools you can use to find someone’s email and verify them if they are indeed valid and deliverable. At the end of this post, I hope that this guide help youin your future cold email marketing campaigns.  ## Find an Email Through a Web Search  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qs0FPGinyF4k9HxdbDAnYsEt5oi7XvaCCE9aYOWpyaRmxDo2BBBLoebuawGiolBzPDfR657pSum9Ne3a3MwFwBS3dFQ3kqU8Lo5KOSPtaRvMSSE4d4prQ21uc1cdPWJ6y1K8KlLD) A search engine, such as Google or Bing, is a great place to start when trying to find email address information. A search engine scans and sifts through a vast number of databases and websites at once, so searching through a web engine can be your first step.  However, it is basically impossible to move through each result by hand and filter through the addresses to find the one you need. It is essential, then, to use many tools and techniques at your disposal to narrow down the results.  For instance, with Google, search operators can help you find emails by getting specific. As an example, if you are searching for the Gmail address of one certain Carl Jones, you may type “@gmail.com AND Carl Jones.”  Adding other information to your search, such as where a person lives or works, might be of help to your email hunt. Also, if you are sure on the email provider they are using (Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo!, Outlook, etc.) then you can try to use them separately, like this:  “@gmail.com” AND “@yahoo.com” AND “Carl Jones” AND “Philadelphia”  Or through the use of the OR search operator, such as this:  “@gmail.com” OR “@yahoo.com” “Carl Jones” AND “Philadelphia”  Also read: [How you can combine social media and email marketing here](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) ## Find An Email Using Social Media  [To create a profile on social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn, one will need an email address. Using this knowledge, you might be able to find someone’s email addresses by scouring their social media accounts.   Visit these sites and find their profiles, the main one, and any others you suspect they are using, and look at the profile sections where their email addresses may show up.  Sometimes a profile page is not set to public, but the owner may still allow the email address to remain visible to anyone so that when someone will want to contact the owner, they can through an email address.  If you are unsure of the social media sites to visit, then you may perform a simple search on Pipl, an identity verification site. The results will show any known social media profiles linked to that specific person.  Now, these first two are obvious email finding methods. Most of the time, they are enough, but in situations where there is no luck, consider the following. Relevant: [How to get in touch with bloggers and contributors](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) ## Find An Email Using Hunter.io  [Hunter.io](https://hunter.io/), formerly known as Email Hunter, is a great resource that allows its users to find contact information connected to any domain. The site touts themselves as the “most powerful email-finding tool ever built,” citing over 100 million indexed email addresses and effective filters and scoring.   Hunter.io offers the following functions.  ### 1\. Domain Search  The [Domain Search](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/) function enumerates the people working or are associated with a company, and lists their names and email addresses. ### 2\. Email Finder  The email finder function lets you find the email address of a professional or professionals, either one by one or in bulk. Hunter.io finds the most probable and proven email address of anyone in a matter of seconds.  ### 3\. Email Verifier With the email verifier, the user can do a check of whether or not the email address is authentic, letting you send emails with confidence that it is the right contact. Hunter.io’s Email Verifier uses a unique dataset, so it can still return a result when other email verification services couldn’t.  Hunter.io also believes in transparency. Each email address that gets added to their database has public sources and discovery dates that they indicate.  To use Hunter.io, register on their site for free. Then take time to familiarize yourself with the UI and layout; it is pretty straightforward and clean.  The first 100 requests (includes Domain Search, Email Finder, and Email Verifier) are free, and past that, you will need to upgrade to a paid subscription plan of your choice. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ufIdv8CjTdaRmZSj8xAIOse3u8Yr53ztAUJX_wCvoaBN9eoU1fil3g7gxoQjRR6pPT6FsNPQf7kzuHMrhOiQx633KLHF6GzCLpqO0H0XGUmWkYydhM_KUQYYHSWgSmsCVYJ4lFh2) ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/RJJFiyIV1diTFcmcgvw1uBFJ3iAuqs5nGB4IjxmTWdiUqG6RdpJfxe9wmool5jT5qr68nH6uoDqrGwkaOHIOIklEMcm1R9Sdh7tR33vHBqCjOTHWyP8cOSaeLVSsZX3RRH7FdhjU) ## Find An Email With Clearbit  Another tool you can use is [Clearbit Connect](https://connect.clearbit.com/), which guarantees that you can find any email you want in under five seconds.   Clearbit is a little extension that lives in the Gmail sidebar. It shows useful information about the people contacting you through email, and lets you find email addresses from the comfort of your inbox.   Here are the steps to set-up and find and email with Clearbit for your Gmail.  1. Firstly, you must add the Clearbit Connect extension to your computer’s Google Chrome. To do this, go to Clearbit Connect’s official website ([https://connect.clearbit.com/](https://connect.clearbit.com/)) and click on the orange “Install for Gmail” button.  2. Wait for a few seconds for the extension to be installed. You may have to restart your browser for the extension to be recognized.  3. Once the extension is installed, head to your Gmail page then click ‘refresh.’ 4. When the page reloads, you will see a new link named *Connect*. Click it to start the Gmail account connection process.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xTzl7cGJ5Uz-WWQpesiHuVOpWr1Clz_LNIaTapHhmukSroHZYTRgkOxmgEjueQ6OUxfRJDt1xllEMxPD-qucr4slxTwfXEjpOpTcftyYChoe5tGnf4gLqC0uI1HF2HCZp1MQpHlH) - If you want to, you can choose the free version of the software. You can change this later. - After the account connects, click on the *Connect* link again to show a list of options. Click on *Find an Email.*  - On the search window that pops up, enter the name of a company.  - On the screen will appear the names of employees of the organization you searched for. You can also click on an entry to view his or her detailed information.  - If you want to acquire information on the sender of a mail, then open it and look at the right-hand side of the window, which shows a compiled look of the links associated with the sender, along with personal information.  You can make Chrome smarter with this email finder extension from Clearbit.  ## Find An Email With An Email Permutator And LinkedIn Sales Navigator Permutation, in mathematics, means the process of arranging the elements of a set into a logical sequence. Permutations are ordered combinations; elements are arranged in a definite order, and the order matters.  In finding an email, permutation means more or less the same.   A method tried, tested, and has stood firm over the years is taking the first and last name of a target and their domain, then combining them in multiple ways. This is the essence of email permutation.  Most people owning an email address use rather unsophisticated email address names based on a combination of variables, such as first and last name, nickname, initials, and birthdate. It does not take a NASA scientist to combine and guess the possible combinations. However, doing permutations can be a pain, because often there are not only 1,2, or 3 results. That is why it is advised to seek the help of an email permutator. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/AXLIcO6Jrw2uY48pV6YFxu09DjqGC_YKjL-fk2zPDEo4JRnAxiq7OVEnQhHK0laKMw5bBlgutJBnS94XdPIaopZlO4vf0T4HVdIwLOoCGn9HoKSU1SKDlubr0n-wR8r1FW3oxQht) There are several of those email permutators online. Still, I personally like Email Permutator+ of [metricsparrow.com](http://metricsparrow.com/toolkit/email-permutator/), because it allows its user to permutate addresses for up to three domains at the same time.  This email permutator has been designed to help you guess the email address of the person you want or need to contact. It refines and extends the functionality of Rob Ousbey’s permutator spreadsheet.  It contains features such as:  1. A simple but effective interface 2. Entry boxes for several domains  3. A field for nickname entry  4. Direct copying to the clipboard with one button 5. Automatic removal of whitespace 6. Cross-domain prioritization for multiple domains 7. Removed redundant emails  To use the tool, simply fill the needed information, such as first and last names and domains. You can also choose to enter a middle name and nickname for additional permutations.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/C195eEMipU6fnYobz_8UxHxLp_1KPDRxLqE6cpPwtmzBcqagL7hjiiwt73SFeY2Ad4pdDAu_Fgep0hjvOvh-5QRipEc5zrWK2nR30u6XZAfk3ULEmPfSiTQSwxZRAhHEpA0P4iTl) After clicking permutate, a window will show all the permutation results. Copy all these to your clipboard or a notepad file.  On the LinkedIn website, the Sales Navigator is a tool that will help the user find the right leads and prospects much faster with sales-specific and customized insights, such as lead recommendations.  For finding an email, the LinkedIn Sales Navigator gives you the ability to take a look at the LinkedIn details of your contacts directly through Gmail. This is through the installation of a Google Chrome extension.  1. Visit the Chrome Web Store. 2. Search for Sales Navigator or Sales Navigator Lite 3. Once you find the extension, click Add to Chrome. You may have to restart your browser for it to be recognized.  Once the extension is installed., it will appear on the right-hand side of your Gmail. When you click an email, you will see details about the sender.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/kBTdIkemXO1Akl4yFAhbdFLobm96p8O0616JAwwgbhBCpXlU1AefDKnaXHDJJB4_1vC0Ig5Q8bj1G_ywd-AQxpZAT-VC9b2_PCJF-QYRMtjPAqOcFYWXHFLVL6RffzIDqkSdb1L7) So now, we combine the email permutations with the Sales Navigator.   Open your Gmail account, compose and email, then paste the list in the “to” field of the email you are making. There you will see the different email permutations listed in their bubbles.  Hovering over addresses in the cursor will let you see the details on the Sales Navigator sidebar.  If you hover over the email and see a result on the Sales Navigator, then a LinkedIn profile belongs to that address. If there is no matching LinkedIn profile, then the Navigator will also show that. Also, hovering over any email address will show a matching google account with the full name and a profile picture (or an initial if there is no profile picture). This is one secure method to verify an email address, and may also work for other email providers.  However, permuting emails has its disadvantages.  It only uses a preset number of variables, and these variables cannot be changed. What if the person you are looking for is not using his or her name in an email address?  As with much open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools out there, it will most likely not solve your case, but it gives you a puzzle piece, a place to start. Once those pieces pile up, they will provide a clearer picture.  Also, this technique only makes use of publicly available data. If people want to keep their email addresses hidden, then this method will not find it.  Moreover, recent developments make it so that very soon, this technique will be entirely unusable.  [LinkedIn is shutting down the Sales Navigator for Gmail extension.](https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/linkedins-shutting-down-its-sales-navigator-gmail-extension/572478/) Yes, that’s right. on the18th of March 2020, LinkedIn shut down the extension because their data suggested that the tool is simply not seeing that much meaningful use.  However, do not fret, because you can still access pretty much the same information through Outlook, owned by LinkedIn’s parent company, Microsoft.  ## Validate the Emails If you are a [digital marketer](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) and are undergoing an email marketing scheme, then a valid email address is a cornerstone for success. It is essential to confirm if your email list is correct and error-free and that the emails included really do exist.  To get a sizable volume of quality emails, you will have to use email validation.  Email validation is a process where an email address can be verified if it is valid and deliverable. It confirms if an address is registered in domains such as Yahoo and Google, and also runs a technique that catches errors and typos.  Most email service providers are also offerors of email validation services, and there are numerous free tools online to help authenticate them.  And one sure-fire way of making sure that the emails are valid is the use of third-party tools.  Neverbounce is one of the best of such tools.  Relevant: [Easy ways to contact Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-google/) ### Validate Emails With Neverbounce [Neverbounce](https://neverbounce.com/) touts themself as the most accurate email verification system on the market today, in addition to an easy to use the platform and fantastic customer support.  Neverbounce was built by its creators based on their own necessity. They were former digital marketers themselves and as such, they are well acquainted with the hardships involved in reaching customers through emails.  Neverbounce focuses on the safety and accuracy of consumer data while making sure that their product works, and works well.  Here is how to get started with Neverbounce.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/xbOpq2VJ58Q95hh0hHO_l5H4IousIaqUrrEFkjHi_bICkDgPPmPGNuV_aVxtFnAS1_CQS_qRe9MRzuoipClnmYl0B3LVT9cu_ALfhGw0wd3JRsbQaGRWiO9FSu-6I8uKPdnM5qEC) - Create a Neverbounce account for free.  Visit [this](https://app.neverbounce.com/register) link to register with Neverbounce. Creating an account is totally free. - Sign-in and view the dashboard.  Sign in with the details you registered with. Upon logging in, you will see different tabs on the top right of the page showing the several product offerings of Neverbounce: Clean, Sync, and Verify.  At its most basic definitions, clean is for bulk verification of email listings, verify is for point-of-entry authentication of an email, and sync is for automatic email list cleaning with your chosen integrated platform.   The Apps tab shows external connections you can utilize to integrate Neverbouce’s services to your platform or third-party services.  Under the account dropdown arrow, you will be able to see your purchase and payment history, help pages, and account settings.  ### “Clean” with Neverbounce Here are the steps to use the ‘Clean’ option from Neverbounce.  - After navigating to the Clean option, click add a list on the right.  You will be given two options – either you upload a list directly from your computer, or connect to one of their ESP integration options. Neverbounce puts “upload from computer” by default. - Analyze the list.  You will have the option to analyze your list. This is free, and Neverbouce will give you suggestions on whether or not you should pay to clean the file you uploaded.  - Clean the list.  On the chance that the list will need cleaning, then click on “Clean My List.” There will be two payment options – either you pay with pre-purchased credits, or pay through a credit card.   - Download the results.  The list will begin its validation. When it is complete, you will receive an email notification. Click on “download” on a complete list to save it on your computer. When you click on download, however, you will see different options for custom downloading of segments.   There are several options, but if you only want to be given “valid” results, then click on “Deliverable.” This gives a safe and secure list with valid email addresses you can upload and send from your email provider.  ### “Sync” With Neverbounce Here are the steps to use Neverbounce’s “Sync” option.  - Add a list.  Navigate to the Sync tab, then click on the “Add List” button. If you already have a list integration set up through Clean, then you’ll find it listed at the top under the heading “Current.”   If you have no integration yet, click on a provider and connect your account. You will then be able to view available lists on that platform, which you can then choose by clicking “Import to Sync.”  - Select your payment plan and begin the sync. After selecting a list, you will be prompted to choose between a monthly or yearly payment plan. Note, though, that there is a minimum of a 3-month commitment plan to a monthly subscription.  Once you determine the payment method, Click the “Pay now & Start Sync.” The daily automated list cleaning process then begins.  You can pause a list if you want to stop syncing temporarily and resume it at a later time. You can also remove a synced list from the dashboard, and update or cancel your sync subscription altogether.  ### “Verify” Emails with Neverbounce Here are the steps to use the single email verification product of Neverbounce.  - Verify single emails.  In the “Enter Emails to Verify” box, you can enter up to 10 email addresses at a time for authentication. Simply type in the email or emails, and then separate them with a comma or line break, and when satisfied, click the “Validate” button.  Validation requires one credit per email, and the balance of credit is shown at the top part of the page. You can purchase more credits through the website.  - Analyze your results.  Users can find the results of all their Verify transactions going back up to three months or 90 days. To download the available results, click the “Export to CSV” button, which will prompt an automatic download of a CSV file outlining the findings.  The CSV file will contain details such as:  1. A timestamp 2. The email addresses 3. The results  4. A “Flags” section that includes additional information about the email address 5. Suggested corrections for invalid emails and domain addresses, which could have been misspelled.  And that covers what I consider the best email search and verification services today. Novice email marketers would find these tips and tools to be quite of help in their digital marketing journey.  Want more? Read on to know more about digital marketing here.  - [Your guide to do  A/B Testing for digital marketing campaigns](https://flux.la/how-to-ab-test/) - [Pick a Niche with these Tips](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_b_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbGVqYW5kcm9yaW9qYS5jb20vYmxvZy9iZXN0LWFydGljbGVzLw&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAG1SDQIxF2BWUXWvDvHH3Bolesq_H28IQuobYqg2RKZWNk31Nx9xdDgiyZTR_jqtV8RhV8hGy-Gnh7A3PiL6YWbG22H7SsKontVBzFx-gSQc77DtNUjzxjOpeA7PWkEE07OGqgWCi_UptfjNCFJJXgzHrh7hueqLWMxWA5AJcz0N) - [The top  E-Commerce Platforms Today](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) Comment your insights and suggestions below. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A note on the safety-and-privacy framing of this post: the underlying tactic (anonymous email, anti-tracking, etc.) is more relevant than ever in 2026 with state-level privacy laws (Texas TDPSA + CA CPRA in the US, ePrivacy + DSA in the EU) putting actual teeth behind consent. **~83%** of US site visitors now encounter at least one consent banner per session. For the specific tools mentioned: Omegle shut down in 2023, so any guide referencing it as a live platform should redirect to Monkey or Ome.tv (the two largest 2026 successors). Email-without-verification services like SimpleLogin (Proton acquisition), AnonAddy (now AddyMail), and Firefox Relay are still recommended in 2026. --- ## How To Add A Google Knowledge Panel For Your Brand Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/google-knowledge-panel/ Published: 2021-08-10 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: The Google Knowledge Panel or Knowledge Graph is one of the tools available from Google to assist you in directing your visitors to your website. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The Google Knowledge Panel or Knowledge Graph is one of the tools available from Google to assist you in directing your visitors to your website. The knowledge graph is a unique part of Google’s search results page. This tool displays an overview of the primary topic being searched and will help you optimize your Google presence. The Knowledge Panel may also help your company’s identity, brand, and reputation. Because of the many advantages of this tool, obtaining one is not simple. Use Metadata and market your work across several channels to increase your chances of earning your Knowledge Panel. Google is a treasure trove for information for many users because you can use the search engine to [find almost everything you need to know](https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-image-search-on-google-facebook-pinterest/).  But, when you search your name or your brand, you will definitely find yourself facing thousands of pages sharing the same name. As a business or a brand, this can be troubling because you can’t find your exact site easily. > Google can help you catch the attention of your target audience through various tools like the Google Knowledge Panel.  Fortunately, Google has several tools available to help you direct your audience to your site. One of these tools you can try out is the Google Knowledge Panel or Knowledge Graph. I have put up this guide to help you sort out your Google Knowledge Panel and make it easier for people to know you. [![How To Add A Google Knowledge Panel For Your Brand](/images/posts/inline/126d60ac-cropped-bright-blue-icons-cup-coffee-laptop-scaled-1-640x853.jpg)](https://alejandrorioja.com/web-stories/google-knowledge-panel/) How To Add A Google Knowledge Panel For Your Brand The Google Knowledge Panel or Knowledge Graph is one of the tools available from Google to assist you in directing your visitors to your website. It is a unique part of Google’s search By hina On Aug 24, 2021 [View all stories](https://alejandrorioja.com/web-stories/) Read below what things you need to know about the Google Knowledge Panel. ## What is the Google Knowledge Panel? The Google Knowledge Panel or the Knowledge Graph is a special section in Google’s search results page that shows a summary of the main topic being searched. It usually appears on the right side of the screen and on the first page of the search page.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/cep7oMMyL5cuLwsyXYdXCE_2PVeicz_nRBKW12BMRIUQRoM5-kkmKQYweO4v-TDYZloqZjWZG-MGFqdH6UehFm10UQL4vHNqDvQlpqYC0P7hnvK1akQF7Ma2yTMdtQevBIiZ4LpS) Below is an example of how the Google Knowledge Panel looks like featuring author Dan Brown. The panel will detail everything a person needs to know about an individual or a business without going deeper in Google Search. For individuals, it will display details like birthdays, alma mater, what they are known for, awards and social media. For business, it will feature their contact details, products and other related content.  Relevant: [Curious to know how Google makes money? Read here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) ## Why Should You Claim your Knowledge Panel? If you are considering getting a Knowledge Panel, it can propel your name, brand, and business. When people search for your brand, Google will display your page on the right side of the first search result page if you have a Knowledge Panel. People will then think that your page is the site they are looking for and click your page.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jslI2oxaYieaZB8rBtGCYJKlR0RYiNC4jc6K8utw1u4RNvnayCXSoQZpyCofrJNf0n4mWvmBV4DYMUSyZZqX7LKhsHa8KaFemIobGW7ehpGeZnnrRzbiG5NDfvG6QtewwliI19P-) It will also provide them with the right information they need to know about your business immediately. The Knowledge Panel also indicates the reviews of your brand based on the people who have tried out your brand or product.  For businesses, getting a Google Knowledge Panel can reduce the ads that will prevent people from getting to your site. The Knowledge Panel will bring your site forward and you won’t need to work with sidebar ads since your site is verified through their Knowledge Panel.  ## Types of Google Knowledge Panel Before you add a Google Knowledge Panel to your brand or business, you need to know that there are two types of Google Knowledge Panels: 1. Brand panels are ideal for individuals or brands who wish to provide a basic summary of their details. The panel will include details like social media pages, product summary, awards, foundation date, and other related details. This knowledge panel can also be used by online companies who do not have a physical office.  2. Local panels are ideal for businesses and companies. It will feature details like their location, address, products and contact details. If the brand is a known company, like Canon or Disney, their knowledge panel will appear in national searches.  ## How to Add a Google Knowledge Panel ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/qIrTEVq7zUO4P57KIcBhZflJVH2tD-bRDXC7C2-j1JJonNCGfo-yVOC0oL2hNG_OgsEcE24h1L4BsbTjA9ccoT-qvWIsrdIJZCEHsu1lIckhLb_d1TeHRm7V-oEyUjwjciULrAZa) The benefits of a Google Knowledge Panel are immense if you are able to add it to your brand or business. But, getting one is not that easy especially if you do not know where to start.  Here are some tips on how you improve your chances of getting your Google Knowledge Panel: - Use Metadata to provide Google data about you and your business. It serves as the signal for Google to identify what you are sharing online and connect it to your name.  - Promote your work on various websites and social media pages. As people review or check out your brand or product, it will increase your visibility online. Google will also use these reviews to link to your name.  - Create a website or an online page that will represent your brand or business. Google needs to see these sites from time to time and make it easier to make conversions. Ideally, get your own website with your own domain to make click conversions easier for Google to search.  - Make sure to incorporate SEO to your website to help Google know more about your brand and business. You can use plug-ins like [Yoast SEO](https://yoast.com/) to get your content metadata sent to Google easily.  ### Tip: If you will be using Yoast SEO, you can edit your account there directly to correct your markup details. Once it is used by Google, the right information will be modified. - Your website must also be optimized to make it easy for Google to check your website. You can add CDN or Cloudflare to boost your site speed or tools like GT Metrics to monitor your site’s performance.  ### Tip: Make sure to do your research about the right website tools that can optimize your website. If you cannot do it yourself, have a professional check it for you so your website won’t crash when accessed.  - Use the Google Search Console to verify your website. You can claim your site on Google and when they verify your details, they will show you how your site is performing whenever it is searched. You will also be able to control how Google sees your site, especially if you need to put it down for reformatting or redesigning.  - Update your social media pages constantly. Google uses your updates to create a Knowledge Panel to summarize your data online. You must also make sure that your social media pages reflect your brand, so if you are working as a writer, you can create a Wikipedia page or Author page for Google to view. It takes some time before Google activates your Knowledge Panel but once they do apply it, you can proceed to the next step which is verifying your account.  ### Don’t forget to verify your Google Knowledge Panel so people know it’s your site. Once you have a Google Knowledge Panel, you can verify the details to prove that it is your site that is being featured. Here’s how you can verify your details with Google: 1. Use your Google account (or make one) and access Google Search.  2. Look for your search page and look for the knowledge panel.  3. Click the “Claim this Knowledge Panel” and review the details that will be provided to help you verify your account. Google may also request for other details to verify your brand or business, which you will need to submit.  4. If your site is verified, check the information provided and edit it accordingly.  5. Sign in to connected sites or profiles listed on the site to verify your site. Some of the sites that you can use to verify your site include Youtube, Twitter, and Facebook. 6. Once Google registers your connected site, you will be able to edit your Knowledge Panel and presence in Google.  Users can also opt to verify their sites and get access to their Knowledge Panel with the help of third-party sites. Google will check your accounts to see your online presence. Research which apps work best for your website.  Should there be websites that match your site content, you can reach out to Google to get their assistance. You can also reach out to the site if there are errors in the knowledge panel that you cannot edit.  ### Note: You cannot edit your Knowledge Panel unless you verify your site with Google. Every website varies when it comes to how fast Google can verify the account.  ## Is there a setback of getting a Knowledge Panel? ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/w5mRXmso1_1t-YhwauRi4u_obgPX1616FqBO4RXoKjt4J-M8XXP8QgyLmrmtfAEomIE4JVjm9eFmzOUjSlCqxAPTYMzNvkFr3mX_N7_BUAW8lI5ChVkx3AU2XDkzJYouDvXAnCMR) Of course, having a Google Knowledge Panel does have its setbacks once it is online.  For businesses, having a Knowledge Panel can be tricky because it will display negative Google reviews to your site. You will not be able to modify these reviews easily, especially if you use a local knowledge panel for your business. You can bypass this problem by using a brand knowledge panel.  Aside from negative Google reviews, the search results can also affect your website’s review that will be displayed in the Google Knowledge Panel. For example, if you have a Wikipedia page, people can edit your page easily. As a result, their content will affect how people see your site when they access Wikipedia.  For individuals and brands, the same problems on the content of each knowledge panel can be encountered. You may find it difficult to update your website unless your website is SEO-friendly. If you are not familiar with how SEO works, you will need to revise your website to get Google to search it easily.  Furthermore, it is difficult to work with Google to get your Knowledge Panel to display the correct results. Here are some of the issues you may experience: 1. Google may add old information in your knowledge panel that is out-of-date. Getting them to correct this problem will take time to get it sorted out. However, you can counter this by updating your website and linking new reviews to your account.  2. It does not allow you to correct the information easily, even if the errors being displayed are minor. You can only mark that something is wrong and Google won’t be able to fix everything for you.  3. Reports will also take time to get resolved, especially if there is more than one error in the knowledge page. You will need to report each error one by one and you can’t edit the problem yourself.  4. There are no feedback pages for users to mark if there are errors. Users will also not get an update regarding their report, which can be dangerous if you are correcting details for a business.  5. There is a different repair page for local knowledge panels. The process is also long and difficult to work with.  6. Some of the data included in knowledge panels are from unknown sources and it can be difficult to track where these sites are.  7. You cannot contact Google directly for the issue, especially for local pages.  ### Know what your knowledge panel can do for your site and do your best to maximize its benefits.  ## To Wrap Up! If you want to maximize your Google presence, having a Knowledge Panel connected to your business or brand is the best. It can be tricky to add one for your knowledge panel, but if you optimize your website and content, Google can sort out your knowledge panel easily.  When you have a Knowledge Panel for your account, you will definitely see an improvement in how many people access your site. People will also take a shorter time to find you online and not have to worry about paying for ads to get noticed.  If you loved this article, here are other great articles to inspire you to improve your social media presence: - [Your Guide to SEO](https://flux.la/seo/)  - [Tips to improve  Alexa Rank FAST](https://flux.la/improve-your-alexa-rank/) - [A guide on the Best SEO Tools (Free and Paid)](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) Make sure to leave a comment below or message me through my social media pages if you want me to cover other topics. You can also connect with me via my [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) or [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/youngslacker/) to stay up-to-date with my work. Of course, don’t forget to let me know how you found my site! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## What Is Rank And Rent? How To Rank And Rent A Website? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/rank-and-rent/ Published: 2021-07-26 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing, affiliate marketing, Cover Photo Marketing, marketing budget TL;DR: Today, Facebook, the second-largest online advertising marketplace, reported a 2019 second-quarter revenue of more than $16 billion. These two sites own none of the assets they list or the products they advertise. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line The “Rank and Rent” is a digital marketing method in which you build a site, nurture, and grow it until it ranks in local search results. Local SEO practitioners love the rank and rent method because it is straightforward, scalable, and profitable. Local company owners in a variety of industries are interested in renting webspace. For the majority of the local brands, price is the most important factor. Local companies may bundle all of these expenditures into a single monthly price by renting a website. If you have been following me for some time, you know I design my guides around one simple rule: simplifying your digital work processes and amplifying the impact of your business! If you ask me about my top SEO techniques at present, Programmatic SEO and Rank and Rent will top the list for sure! Today’s modern world digitizes at a breakneck pace. Customers [reportedly](https://secondmeasure.com/datapoints/airbnb-sales-surpass-most-hotel-brands/) spend more on listings on Airbnb, an online vacation marketplace, than bookings and reservations on most upscale hotels. Today, Facebook, the second-largest online advertising marketplace, reported a 2019 second-quarter revenue of more than [$16 billion](https://marketingland.com/facebook-reported-strong-ad-revenue-growth-in-q2-instagram-ads-continue-to-drive-impression-growth-264398#:~:targetText=Facebook%20earned%20%2416.6%20billion%20in,the%20quarter%20was%2016.9%20billion.). The catch? These two sites own none of the assets they list or the products they advertise. Instead, they are platforms where sellers can connect themselves with buyers.   This connection has huge earnings potential in it. An estimated 15% of total global digital ad revenue today comes from online marketers promoting the products of other companies for a percentage of profits.  > Billions of people are connected online, and a considerable part of them have made at least one online purchase in 2018. Yet many businesses either have no websites, maintain it poorly, or don’t spend enough on digital advertising.   Looking at it from two perspectives shows two things. On the one hand, there exists a massive gap in the market.  On the other hand, however, this is a goldmine of opportunity for those looking and willing to take action. Digital marketers harnessing the power of search engine optimization (SEO) fill the gap while making bank. Today, I decided to share about Rank and Rent method  used by SEO veterans and affiliate marketers to earn.” Let us dive into the nitty-gritty detail.  ## What is “Rank and Rent?”  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/nFZr0hBRCfYUtBKSg1DLgOHscvDlQV7_k1zhhyAjPYngEo6RAEgjOvj-QWOGUCJg7xy7Y5MsX7ZvbPuM-Z4GwVq4JoaC90TM4KoL8gp5QvtU0rBhcaWecHwyG1roJbfpvUqvo3K4) Let me explain rank and rent in the simplest terms.  The “Rank and Rent” model is a [digital marketing technique](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) where you make or build a site, nurture and develop it until it ranks in the local search results, and then rent the site out to someone who needs it, such as a small or local business, for a fee.  The method is relatively straightforward.  1. Find a niche and location with little competition and good traffic numbers. 2. [Choose a domain for your site.](https://alejandrorioja.com/?s=bluehost+review)   3. Create content. 4. Optimize your site to rank it in the search engine for a variety of keywords 5. Rent out the website to business owners in the same niche with the use of leads. Local SEO practitioners and veterans are fans of the rank and rent strategy because it is comparatively simple, scalable, and, most of all, profitable.  If you are not that familiar with it, do not fret. Experience in ranking websites and the tools used to rank them is the foundation you need to start ranking and renting.  ## How is it different? “Rent” is the word that makes all the difference here. When you ‘rent’ your site out, you choose not to hand over the control of the website.  You are responsible for the links, the design, and the content within the site. Businesses who want to rent out your website would have to negotiate on the content and links.  When they want to end their lease because they either got what they wanted or got nothing out of it, you can then rent out the site to a different client. Sometimes, you can even rent out your website at a higher value, especially when you did everything right, and the first client received positive results.  If you are interested in ranking and renting sites as a long-term SEO-related venture, then you should develop your skills in growing a constant money-producing portfolio of different websites and niches.   ## Who Rents the Websites? Local business owners in many different niches are interested in renting web spaces. And as for most of the local brands, the main determining factor is cost.  Maintaining your own website is expensive. Hiring and paying people to design graphics or write content is costly, and chasing down backlinks, on top of the cost, is very time-consuming.  Renting a website allows the local businesses to combine all these costs into a periodic fee. They can stop paying anytime if they feel that it is not bringing in results or moving on to a new strategy.  Rank and rent websites give advantages to certain kinds of clients beyond the cost.  ### A Newly-Opened Business Venture  Any website started from scratch will take a while before it gains steam and traction in the SERPs. Even a local venture receiving a lot of foot traffic won’t start showing up on the front page of SERPs instantly.  Renting an already existing website is a sure way to skip the problematic process of site-building and ranking and to immediately show up on local searches.  ### Businesses Relying on Leads Local businesses will want leads whenever and wherever they can get them. And when compared to the other methods to gather and draw leads, renting an online site requires less work and obligation.  ### Business Owners Targeting New Markets  It is much easier and also cheaper to rent a website when trying to tap into a new customer base.  When it succeeds, then congratulations, you have introduced yourself to a new market at a low cost. If not, then it is all right, because your expenses were minimal.  ## Steps To Rank and Rent Out a Website  Ranking and renting out a website generally involves these steps:  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/eyFm38K5t7RxxZ9ziXhnKFJMf7jrtgqDtOn6J8X-pIrFHLGfEs7vdbqNAsmVbCLacrqyBEU6TQbgJd_Q2yYe-bzqg_Kx4T25yLwVo4IQdw3de3t47H1imrjSUN1lgCGr-mpbTUfX) 1. Choose a niche  2. Make a domain name 3. Set up a content management system 4. Research about competitors 5. Analyze keywords 6. Create content 7. Set up Google My Business (GMB)  8. Complete Off-site SEO  9. Rent out the website   Let me give a brief outline of the vital steps in rank and rent.  ## Choosing the Niche You Can Promote Strike a delicate balance where the niche is profitable enough as evidenced by relatively high search traffic, but is not that competitive that ranking the site will be lengthy and costly work. For starters, you can focus on local businesses by narrowing down the city and industry you want to rank for.  As a rough measure, look for a monthly local search volume of over 200 to below 500. That is an excellent place to start.  ## Select a Domain Name Think carefully about the domain name, for it makes a clear difference. Note that Google does not give much weight to exact-match domains, but it is still an excellent idea to fit some exact-match words in the domain.  Try to use a domain that includes both your chosen main keyword and location. Also, string together some keyword terms in different readable ways for an affordable combination. Relevant: [You would like to also read my review of GoDaddy here](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/) ## Content Management System If you are not that keen on spending a lot of time managing your content, then you must set up a content management system. And there is not much discussion on the best CMS platform out there.  [WordPress is free and is customizable](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) with pretty themes and designs. There are thousands of high-quality and detailed guides out there that outline how to create a WP CMS.  ## Research Your Competitors ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BAN3Yz0o3VdJjpqJ1Ekco6y8BC1tnM8z5I1JcftQ2bKFHnqAqHECXEguBMcn6ZBXzYowhWeF2BurGJ2cdlRp8iQnSCPY2jGDCLwBDwZDfPGh_X0rL5cPESgH36yRltmNKGRosEcy) Here it gets a little more technical. Understand what works for your biggest competitors and influencers.   Researching your competitors will involve the use of useful SEO tools such as:  1. Ahrefs Surfer SEO  2. Can I Rank?  3. SEMRush 4. Searchmetrics 5. SpyFu 6. And more. [Don’t forget to reach my guide on how to search keywords here](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) ## Analyze Keywords As a rank and rent-er, you should keep in mind that the end goal is to rent out the website to generate leads. Align your keywords to this goal; focus on those in the final stage of buying a product or service.  There are numerous guides and tools out there you can use to generate your keywords with low competition and reasonable search volume.  ## Write Content Once keyword search is done, then it is time to move on to content creation. Focus on articles and blogs relevant to your niche and using the keywords you have researched.   The home page should contain some content describing your expertise, and the about page should provide information to enhance your legitimacy and authority as a content provider. End posts with a definite call to action to help them take the step of leaving their contact information for a possible lead.  Content that does not serve this purpose can still make you rank, but be careful of attracting audiences with wrong intentions.  ## Google My Business (GMB) Register your site in Google My Business (GMB) to get the benefit of showing up in Google Maps. Take care not to skip this step.  If you notice in many local searches, map results rank higher than organic listings. Google map packs generate more clicks and leads.  The whole process to register on GMB can be done through the GMB dashboard.  ## Off-Site SEO Develop your profile further with a robust [off-site SEO campaign](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/). Focus on building citations and backlinks.  Citations refer to your placements in local directories. To start, create a profile on lists such as Whitepages and Yellowpages, before branching out to platforms such as Facebook, Yahoo!, and Bing.  Pull out the data you have gathered during the backlink audit part of researching your competitors and start going for their highest-quality links. In particular, focus on guest post linking.  A correctly placed guest post will solidify your position and increase your authority.  ## Rent out the Website Following the above steps will result in a site that carries weight and value for its niche. What you would like to do now is to rent out the website for money.   There are many different ways to go about this.  Cold calling businesses is one. Be ready with your over-the-phone pitch and negotiation.  You can also contract brokers who sell leads. They may not pay you much as a business will, but they will also ask no questions and require any changes; they just want the leads and nothing else.  You may also stumble upon networks in your niche, like a sort of marketplace to direct businesses to lead generators.  Explore these options and more if you want someone to rent your ranked site.  And that’s it. I hope that this post helped you understand the basics of Rank and Rent.  Read more on SEO techniques and tools to utilize for your site. - [Top White Hat SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) - [On-Page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [Best SEO tools for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) Drop a comment below telling me your questions, experiences, and suggestions on what to cover next. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Brybe Marketplace Review: The Go-To Place To Hire Freelancers & Influencers Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/brybe-marketplace-review-the-go-to-place-to-hire-freelancers-influencers/ Published: 2021-07-06 Updated: 2024-05-23 Tags: Reviews ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. If there’s one thing we learned this year while being closed at our homes is this one: if you have a computer and Internet access, the world is your oyster. And I’m not talking about making video calls with overseas friends, [learning new productivity tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tips/), or baking (although let’s face it, we’ve all learned how to make homemade bread because of this pandemic.) I’m referring to the life-changing opportunity of creating a better professional life for yourself by using your laptop only. Yes, starting your freelance journey right in the midst of this still very-much-present pandemic may sound scary to some of you, especially if you [don’t know where to start](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-a-freelancer/) or lack the necessary skills. Add to it the ruthless competition and the high service fees on some of the most popular freelance platforms, and you got a recipe for demotivation.  Luckily, there’s one platform out there that’s a safe space for any newbie in the business world – [Brybe Marketplace](https://brybe.com/). Brybe opened its virtual doors to business founders and talented individuals from all over the world and made it easy for them to connect and collaborate.  Let’s take a closer look at this platform. ## What is Brybe Marketplace?  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/JTwpz8qopytUs7McVicGwcCOc3FBAL4aqYHTrAkBTbvzFaQjTjBdF4HHoopHb8gWaGAwSL6Zr67bAASEjKQb5RczdZsQDhnAy0J9_uwSvizP4iwu9FkYoDr152xm7lUuS5WaUcRx) Brybe Marketplace is a digital platform that connects brands, influencers, and freelancers and enables them to collaborate. What makes Brybe Marketplace different is its accessibility to small business owners who need skilled professionals but have a tight budget or new, inexperienced freelancers or influencers who want to make a brand of themselves. Anyone is welcome to create a profile – there are no sign-up fees. Brands are called buyers, and influencers and freelancers are often called talents or creators. Brybe Marketplace works quite simple: buyers can reach out to freelancers and influencers and ask them for potential collaboration, and freelancers and influencers can offer their services. Inspired by Fiverr’s package structure, the owners decided to use the same approach for their platform. The service packages are called Brybes, and each individual can create up to three service packages. On the other hand, buyers can create their job offers called [Buyer’s Requests](https://brybe.com/postrequests), where they specifically list the necessary criteria for collaboration.  Most importantly, all of the talents present at Brybe Marketplace are divided into multiple categories, making the search for skilled individuals much more manageable.  ## How Does Brybe Marketplace Work?  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/wwUiP681jhSFLwjC2XlSiKEAReqbC6mrElLcAun3w4Hc8HxWJ39jDh4QoNrIxPHab7fhaYdtuHYeZp_VKo2qovhMxivJQKO2KHlP2Qn2Lg_wYYR0eFfkRfJrTpL24mRpOTSuOMf8) Here’s what you need to know if you’re about to use Brybe: it’s highly flexible. The platform enables you to switch your account. Even if you’ve created a freelancer’s profile, you can switch it to influencer or buyer with just a click of a button.  You don’t need to have three accounts in order to complete your personal or business goals. Once you switch your account, you need to fill it in with the necessary personal or business information, and you’re ready to use it. The process for creating an account is similar, regardless if you’re a buyer, a freelancer, or an influencer. Right now, Brybe Marketplace is opened for everyone. The only criteria they’ve set is for influencers – if you’re an influencer, you need to have at least 500 followers on at least one of your social media accounts to create a profile at Brybe.  Here’s how Brybe works: 1. Sign up to create your account. If you already have an account, you can directly log in.  2. If you’ve signed up as a freelancer or influencer, here’s how your dashboard will look like, and these will be the necessary information for you to fill in:  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/0KCoqubVMjPQhkF6KJBfb9yWrsU0SiUNP5kMLszzpyew1Lf_3B_aB9ZXbkQyKZsICyhoCR8TIJVt-SoBIQ2-94t4abTBda6p0ud9JjizeonxNYHLRDtALvgbqSpYlvo-vHVE7uwq) If you’re a buyer, the dashboard looks somewhat similar:  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Csw2VDdII0r_EFSkKRtmsgtVjO4q4QToCYsRlDnQ2LSag-1BXRulBnL_Q1qc-aQQ5mSEJ4jER6S1zORJYLAqI7iWNcUfT4sD37Hm0cczF64FLKAiJdqKkbibC1DLdD9tgewxcbga) 3. Every account at Brybe Marketplace needs to be verified via email and phone. 4. Filling out your profile is a must to use some of Brybe’s features like creating Brybes, browsing freelancers or influencers, or discovering Buyer’s Requests. It’s an excellent opportunity for freelancers and influencers to show off their skills, knowledge, and experience. Additionally, everyone on Brybe can categorize themselves by the industry they’re working in, making it perfect for the buyers to find professionals more efficiently. 5. Once the profile is filled, you can start your search for talents or job offers. Brybe Marketplace has an effective filter for simplified search. If you click on the *“Browse Freelancers”* or *“Browse Influencers”* buttons, you can find the filters on your left. All of Brybe’s users are divided into multiple categories. Influencers are divided by category, tier, social media, location, price, language, and delivery time. Freelancers are divided by category, NFT services, level, experience, reviews, location, price, language, and delivery time. Last, buyer’s requests are categorized by industry or category, social media, location, price, language, requirements, and submission deadline. Each one of these filters is easily adjustable to make it easy for everyone in their search. 6. When you find a suitable buyer’s request, you can review it and send your offer. Or, when you find a qualified influencer or freelancer for your job offer, you can directly reach them out and send them a message with your proposal.  That’s how the entire process goes for all Brybe’s users.  There’s one feature that influencers and freelancers can use to leverage their knowledge and skills – creating Brybes. Brybes, as I’ve mentioned previously, are service packages. There are three types of Brybes: Standard, Advanced, and Premium. Each Brybe should contain the deal’s specifics like provided services, benefits, price, and deliverable time. Also, freelancers and influencers have the opportunity to create Custom Brybes – packages designed for a specific buyer only, following their business goals and ideas.  ## Who Can Use Brybe Marketplace?  Although primarily designed to help small businesses and newbies in the digital world, the potential of Brybe Marketplace is not to be underestimated. According to their website, Brybe’s talents have collaborated with brand names like Adidas, Neutrogena, Jeep, Samsung, and many more. It’s an all-in-one marketplace, but let’s check who can benefit the most from using Brybe.  ### Small to Midsize Brand Owners Small business owners or new entrepreneurs don’t have the budget to hire mega influencers for their latest influencer campaigns or freelancers with decade-long experience. But that doesn’t mean that they don’t need top-rated professionals to get the job done right. This is where Brybe Marketplace comes in. If you’re a small business owner, you can find talented professionals for prices as low as $5 per deal, depending on what you’re looking for. With over 15 industries available and more than 23K users registered on the site, you will definitely find talents suitable for your business. Of course, if your budget allows you to, you can search through the celebrity influencers at Brybe Marketplace and contact their agents for a potential collaboration. Messi, Ramos, Rosalia, Nadal are just some of the celebrities’ names on Brybe.  ### Freelancers  The freelance addition is the newest addition at Brybe Marketplace, but it adds significantly in value. Anyone who considers themselves a skillful freelancer and works in one of the industries available at Brybe Marketplace can create their freelance profile and build their personal brand. IT, digital marketing, photography, gaming, fashion – these are just some of the industries available at Brybe Marketplace. Freelancers can add their portfolio and experience, and they can start their job search immediately.  ### Influencers  If you have more than 500 followers on one of your social media accounts, you qualify to become an influencer at Brybe Marketplace. Regardless of your location, your preferred niche or industry, or the type of influencer you are (nano, micro, macro, or mega), you can create your profile and start sending offers to high-end brands’ names. You should connect your social media accounts with your Brybe profile and make it easier for the buyers to find out more about you. Also, influencers can create packages, so be mindful of this benefit and use it to your advantage.  ## Brybe Marketplace Pricing  One of the best advantages Brybe Marketplace has over the other digital platforms is the non-existing service fee. Freelancers and influencers will receive the exact amount of money they’ve agreed upon with the buyer, and that’s it. The only thing that Brybe charges are the 15% fees on the agreed price, which the buyer pays. It’s an exceptional advantage for everyone, especially for the newbies in the freelance world.  ## Pros and Cons of Brybe Marketplace  Like anything else created by the human mind, Brybe Marketplace has its own pros and cons. Let’s review some of them.  ## Pros 1. It’s free – anyone is welcomed to try it out; 2. You can easily switch between different accounts – from buyer to freelancer and influencer and vice versa;  3. Direct communication with the buyers – no middleman; 4. There are no fees – you keep what you earn; 5. No contract signing – accepting the company’s terms and conditions is enough for safe and secure collaboration; 6. Three payment systems are available – bank account, Stripe, and PayPal; 7. Secure money transaction and protection;  Also, there are some cons. ## Cons 1. It may be confusing and a bit too much for first time users;  2. The platform is still work-in-progress, so be mindful of the features.  All in all, it’s an excellent platform for the services it provides.  ## Bottom line It’s refreshing to see what kind of approach the founders, the designers, the developers, and the marketers at Brybe Marketplace took to make this platform one-of-a-kind. It’s still pretty new in the market, but the number of users is constantly growing.  Brybe Marketplace has the potential to become the go-to place for buyers to find top-rated talents like influencers and freelancers for affordable prices. On top of that, these individuals can build their brand much easier with Brybe and keep all their hard-earned money while doing so.  Not a bad deal, right?  While we’re on the subject, check out some of my articles on how to become a better freelancer and influencer:  - [How to Contact Contributors and Bloggers](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) - [How To Start A Blog: A Beginners’ Guide To Get Started!](https://alejandrorioja.com/start-a-blog/) - [5 Ways to Become a Trusted Influencer](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-to-become-a-trusted-influencer/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Do Competitor Research On SEMRush: A Step By Step Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/competitor-research-semrush/ Published: 2021-06-30 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents #### Bottom line Competitor research is a crucial step in managing your business. Before diving into this, make sure to specify your research expectation, company goals, and current market situation. Then, you can start by knowing your competitors and categorizing them. You can group them in terms of branding, prices, and target market approach.  Collect data about your competitors’ market position, products, sales tactics and results, and marketing campaigns and performance. Make sure to include competitor research in your marketing strategy.  *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* Competitor research has been crucial as long as competing businesses have existed, and it seems like every professional has developed their own way to deal with it. However, it’s not uncommon for marketers and business owners to feel lost and confused facing it. The big questions are what should you start your competitor research with? What are the key steps you absolutely can’t skip? How can you optimize your time and efforts? Let me help you with these and even more issues that are fundamental for insightful competitor research. In this article, I will guide you through the key steps of competitor analysis, refer to some useful tools and draw your attention to the main principles of successful research. [![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/r7u0c1N-Kk0RSbSlMB53vYA-mr84Hoefz7Yh6TiZX8wm9FaV-sWHMMhh43V1ReB5UQvwRuK8SqywMoOpdae-TLKn4Fu7xzfLYH4yuF2dEmQdMQq-Y00lTrxnfczU3jDrZe2In110)](https://www.semrush.com/partner/alejandrorioja/) ## Before You Get Started Before you actually jump straight into competitor research, you’d better answer these questions. - **What do you expect to get from the research?** While this may sound redundant, it’s important to know exactly what you want to look for and how you’re planning to use the information. Otherwise, you’ll likely be pulling random metrics that seem important but don’t give you the accurate picture that you need to create an actionable strategy based on the data at hand. So first, decide which goals you want to focus on. Do you want to monitor your competitor’s PPC campaigns? Are you trying to [outrank them with SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), or to snag some of their best content marketing strategies? Be relatively specific, and use a segmented approach to competitor research based on the framework.  - **What is your company aimed at?** Before you begin researching your competitors, it’s important to articulate your own business’s goals and strategies. What areas are you trying to grow in, and where could you use some help? If you know that your PPC campaigns are dominating, for example, but that your overall SERP positioning is low, the latter would be a good place to focus.  - **What’s the market situation in general and how do you fit in?** In addition to checking on your company’s individual goals, look at the market as a whole. Are there any new trends that you should be aware of, and do you know where you fit into it? Can you identify direct and indirect competitors right off the bat? Assess whether your goals are realistic or even attainable. It’s not uncommon for a lot of small businesses to rush to the market and insist that they want the top-ranking in the SERPs to point to their products, even when they’re competing directly against long-time mega competitors like Staples, Nike, or the Food Network. This isn’t realistic, and focusing on something that isn’t possible at this point in time actually hurts their potential to find other avenues of success.  Once you’ve examined your own business, your goals, and your standing in the market, you can start to dive into competitor research. Relevant: [Read my detailed review of SEMrush here](https://alejandrorioja.com/semrush-review/) ## First Steps of Competitor Research Depending on your goals, you may decide to focus on competitors’ current standing in the market, their revenue, customer relations, [brand awareness](https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/) or specific marketing campaigns. In any case, you will always want to start with a strong action plan *before* you dive in. This will keep you focused and on target.  While there is some variation, I know from experience that almost all competitor research journeys will involve five key steps. Let’s take a look at each of them, understand why they are important and learn to execute them well using [SEMrush Competitive Research tools.](https://www.semrush.com/partner/alejandrorioja/) ### 1\. Find Your Competitors You can’t do adequate competitor research if you don’t actually know who your competitors are. You’ll want to find both direct competitors (those competing for your exact customers) and indirect competitors (those competing for audiences similar to yours). **How many competitors should there be on the list?** SEMrush recently took a poll of the users of SEMrush Competitive Research toolkit — there were CEOs (25%), CMOs and senior SEO experts (20.8% each), strategists, consultants, and other chief officers. More than half of these professionals only monitored up to five competitors on a regular basis, and one-third of respondents kept an eye on five to ten rivals. This means that in some cases a wider net can help you get a more comprehensive view of the overall landscape. Other times, you’d better narrow the focus. There is a tool that can help you in both cases — [SEMrush Market Explorer](https://www.semrush.com/partner/alejandrorioja/). To begin with, when you enter just one company’s website, the tool will map out the entire competitive landscape in the form of the Growth Quadrant. You will see relevant players’ market positions determined by their audience size (Traffic Volume) and growth rate (Traffic Growth). This is particularly valuable when you are preparing for a new market launch in the domain with a strong online presence or benchmarking your progress against your current niche. You can switch between Top 30, Top 20, and Top 10, as well as between “All Market” and “Narrow Focus”. The latter reveals a shortlist of the closest competitors in terms of website visibility. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vJ2aiYMWTWixSvdb-BvjXUL1Ehl1rL2MGS0B_zJ-s_WD1SL7yzyrlQPXCePvNwkcFFlVuyX2Nxga4z_eXpWZJ5sZjAnPXhvIir84jaBGyltMU4gHEzmmGPU3-R9f3GksBL_PbAaz) You can scroll down and see who is dominating the market online, which platforms they’re using for successful promotion, and what kind of audience they attract. ### 2\. Categorize Your Competitors To pull more accurate data and leverage it correctly, break down the full list of competitors into different segments. Here are several ways to categorize your rivals: - Brand competitors fighting for your target audience to purchase vs. organic competitors who are fighting for the same users’ attention in the search engines ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/KPtJ0j4e6TaFWIY-SoROPAqqTzTiVHuOSBOYEzjUO6D09ldEjS0QoLvUJZmi2SXFIRxAUYM5KDaEdh7e3Ufde4cLH5m5gGyOXUsZef-uirh3nrPynoHHVLf6xNTP-LnePQ0arcVE) - **Organic competitors** can be assessed by their **market positions and growth rate**. Looking at the Growth Quadrant above, you may want to explore Leaders, Game Changers, Niche Players, and Established Players more. Depending on their place in the competitive landscape, you can either choose them as your role models in digital marketing or study them as anti-examples. - **Primary competitors** who are targeting the same customer with the same solution**, secondary competitors** who are only targeting the same customers but using a different solution, and **tertiary competitors** who are competing with the same solution but targeting different customers. Imagine one shoe brand that promises original design and another one offering comfort and arch support. Customer/solution fit won’t be the same for them, and neither will be their marketing strategies. - **Competitors in terms of pricing**: Apart from offering a different (or the same) solution to a different (or the same) audience, your competitor may do it for a different (or the same) price. Sure, it’s not always the price that consumers care about — it’s more value for money. So, put your competitors on the graphs considering that and see where your offering is placed compared to your rivals’. ### 3\. Identify Your Competitors’ Market Positioning Would you snag a strategy from someone struggling to survive in the market or someone dominating it? Don’t rush: the second option may be as tricky since well-known companies’ moves may not work for a smaller, not-yet-as-established brand. You can try to detect your competitor’s place in the market in many ways: you can quickly assess their online market share in the [SEMrush](https://www.semrush.com/partner/alejandrorioja/) Market Explorer tool or compile all the information you have on them manually in a spreadsheet (like in the example below). ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jIgSsPSN0Mt02E8blN81PxJEvJavj3cGnOIAMyvuIjOfz4Onm3qQI2sO68i3eKyZywG7s7Ck-Ycjlp9lb5S6hRJfjaJ_tEAxrYG4UfmTnHnnz5ARNrx6B_hQNuLOZzKFRl36xsUq) To truly understand a company’s positioning and potential, you will need to research the aspects listed below — and not just once. Monitoring changes can help you derive more insights than ad hoc research. ### 4\. Determine What Products They Offer A quick way to reveal focus products or services is to check out the Top Pages tab in [SEMrush Traffic Analytics](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial). The report can show you the product/service/category pages that drive the most visits. You can easily shorten the list of most visited pages by the keyword that interests you the most. For example, I filtered the list of Top Pages on macys.com by researching women’s items. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ujVos_zLOoXUotHYXymtEgyTDzuVjs0wStZMztHvD8YkYHYNT6DELahL7c0xnkQi9X2-oJGmcPzUR-19RilAp0601VV1tj7khlinCYE7kHSCC9uXquzv-337bxCwJX3GUvmicnAW) This way, you can discover the popularity of the entire product category and even reveal sources of traffic to its subcategories (in the GIF you can see women’s coats, for example). To understand your competitors’ product and pricing strategy even better: 1. Get back to pricing. Are these most popular products of your competitors more affordable or more high-cost than yours? 2. Review the message on these top product pages. Are CTAs targeted at one-off purchases, high-volume sales, or retaining clients? Are these items sold individually or in a package? What type of customers do they target and what do those customers need? You can get the first clues by assessing the tone of voice in these messages and the general style of branding. ### 5\. Research Your Competitors’ Sales Tactics and Results Once you’ve adjusted the focus, it’s time to find out what your closest competitors’ sales tactics are, and how they are driving results. A sales analysis can be tricky, but finding the answers to these questions can help: 1. What does their sales process look like? How does it seem like they’re moving users through the online sales funnel? Once again, refer to the Top Pages report in the SEMrush Traffic Analytics tool and filter the list by keywords like “basket”, “cart”, “payment”, “checkout”, “confirm”, etc. You may reveal the numbers of users that get to this particular stage in the funnel. 2. At what point, if any, is a salesperson involved in the process?  3. What marketing channels do they use? Look at content marketing, referral and affiliate marketing, social marketing, SEO, and PPC campaigns right off the bat; these are easy to identify with the Traffic Sources report in SEMrush Traffic Analytics and the “Entrance Sources” column in the Top Pages tab. 4. Does it seem like they are expanding, scaling down, or staying stagnant? (You can guesstimate the situation by observing the traffic dynamics in Traffic Analytics + don’t ignore any trustworthy news sources that you come across)  5. What is their annual revenue each year? Some corporations publish this online, while others make part of compiled industry reports 6. How do they incentivize purchases? Do they regularly discount their products or services, or offer free shipping, free samples, or free returns? Look at their ads to find out. A big part of these findings can be gained with the right tools. Nevertheless, an astonishing 30% of professionals still gather competitor data manually, as our poll revealed. Sure, no software will replace a good analyst completely, but why waste employees’ precious time on something that can be automated? ### 6\. Explore Your Rivals’ Marketing Campaigns and Performance Try to understand how your competitors build relations with their customers — and borrow a couple of successful techniques, of course. Fortunately, the [SEMrush Competitive Research](https://www.semrush.com/partner/alejandrorioja/) bundle offers solutions to look at your rivals’ online tactics from every angle: SEO & organic traffic, PPC channels, social media, and content marketing. ### \+ Bonus Recommendation: Keep the Competitor Research Part of the Routine You need to focus on a competitive strategy when it comes to promoting your business, and that means a routine part of your overall marketing work. 57% of our surveyed users said that continual monitoring of changes was one of their biggest struggles in competitor research. Nevertheless, analysis has to be done regularly to reveal trends and the overall market situation more accurately. [Monthly Competitor Analysis Template in My Reports](https://www.semrush.com/sem/?utm_source=berush&utm_medium=promo&utm_campaign=link_7-day_pro_trial) is one of the ways to meet this challenge. [![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CRm50GalpJjy5BM-B3zlQXyxEeLQ7CkVIrUYeJdwpYbmHUkaRos3xUv51ml050Rpo8ERDWbK_ITSphkfx73C8jmINfnanuvKHSmrWxkHBnQnKrT8Z30DaQeMWhyKrqKY7AznvFf2)](https://www.semrush.com/partner/alejandrorioja/) ## Bottom line Even if at the moment your marketing campaigns seem to be working, and the business is going well, you may always be aiming at something higher than that. Even the basics of competitor analysis can alert you to any changes in the market and help you ensure that you’re using cutting-edge strategies to outperform your competition. If you liked this post, learn about more resources and guides that I have created on SEO here: - [Understanding the basics of programmatic SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-programmatic-seo/) - [Top 11 On-page SEO tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - What are the must-have [Off-page SEO factors?](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How Does Venmo Work? A Review Of Features And Benefits Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/venmo-review/ Published: 2021-06-17 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Reviews, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* In the past year, our lifestyles have taken a major shift in ways we didn’t quite imagine. Owing to the pandemic, the otherwise normal chores like going to the supermarket, working and earning, or even spending time with– all happened online.  While looking for new digital solutions, I stumbled upon Venmo which is a [mobile payment application owned by PayPal](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/). Through this mobile app, account holders can transfer and receive funds, get paid easily, and even socialize.  This digital wallet has a lot to offer. Keep reading and discover from this blog how Venmo works and how it can efficiently help us with payments and business transactions. To have a quick overview of how to use [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/), watch this YouTube video: ## How Venmo Works As a digital wallet, [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/) can be used to exchange money with other Venmo users. You have three sources of money when using Venmo: 1. Venmo balance; 2. A debit or credit card, or bank account; and 3. Paychecks sent directly to Venmo accounts. With a single click on your mobile app, you can send money to your friends. What’s more, you can type a message indicating what the payment was for! But first, you need to sign up! ### Simple Account Set-up ![](/images/posts/inline/327cf3a8-screenshot-venmo.com-2021.06.17-16_12_40-1.png) Like any other mobile payment service application, you will need to sign-up to be Venmo’s account holder. You need to plugin the necessary personal details that will help [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/) recognize you as a legitimate user.  Anyone of legal age with a bank account, debit card, or credit card can sign-up for an account. Just download the Venmo app on our mobile phones or use the Venmo website.  Account verification can be easily done in the mobile app.  - Clicking the “☰” menu.  - Under this tab, tap “Settings.” - Then choose “Identity Verification.”  Usually, this process only takes a few minutes.  However, in some cases, if the National Database fails to work, [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/) will then send the person a request for documentation, which will take 2-3 business days to process.  ### Budget-savvy Tips and Tricks ![](/images/posts/inline/4fa5d85f-screenshot-venmo.com-2021.06.17-16_11_37.png) Account fees are important to consider when setting up an account. As per [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/), it won’t cost a penny to set up one.  Also, there are no monthly fees when holding the account. Hence, instead of paying for an account, you can add the money to my Venmo.  Transferring money is very easy with this digital wallet. I did it through the following steps and was able to transfer funds as many times as I wish: 1. Add a bank account 2. Verify the account to ensure that money gets there 3. Transfer funds and freely move money from Venmo to one’s bank account, and vice versa. Here are the things you need to know when using our money in [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/): 1. It will not charge a fee for online purchases. You can buy as much as we want 2. If you use your credit card to send money via Venmo, you will be charged a 3% fee. 3. In this case, it’s better to use your Venmo balance, debit card, or bank account when spending or sending money. The reason is it’s free of charge.  ### Balance Management Just like budgeting money, balance management is also important when using [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/). The developers have design tools and mechanisms that will allow you to move, manage, and adjust your balance.  As I utilize this app, I will need to spend some dollars to enjoy its benefits. To efficiently manage my balance, I considered some costs that I could incur to decide which method is less costly. When adding money to our account, we should take note that: - Venmo will charge 1% with a minimum of $5 fee if we add cash using check deposits, payroll, and government checks. There will be no charge if users’ checks cannot be added. - Venmo will charge a 5% fee with a minimum fee of $5.00 if we add money using non-payroll and non-government checks. Likewise, transfers will be free of charge once checks are bouncing. - If users send a payment via one’s business profile, Venmo will charge 1.9% and a $0.10 fee for the transaction. - There are no charges for other ways of adding money to the account. ### Quick Money Transfer If I wish to transfer money from my [Venmo accoun](https://www.businessinsider.com/venmo-working-on-adding-privacy-options-after-bidens-account-discovered-2021-5)t, I can do it for free through standard electronic withdrawal. Money, in this case, is available in 1 to 3 business days.  However, the money could be available in a few minutes if I use the instant transfer. Only it charges 1% with a minimum of $0.25 fee and a maximum of $10 fee. Through Venmo’s quick money transfer feature, we can do more with our money sooner than later. Usually, banks need 1 to 2 business days to process money. But with this digital wallet, we can have our hard-earned money as soon as Venmo receives it via direct deposit. ## Investment in Cryptocurrencies with Venmo I recently read the news regarding [Venmo’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/) launching a new feature, which allows investments in cryptocurrencies. I think that [PayPal made a wise move to allow users to trade cryptocurrencies via Venmo](https://gizmodo.com/paypal-launches-checkout-with-crypto-to-let-users-pay-i-1846580292). It increased the utility we can gain from this app! Everyone can easily start a crypto journey through these three easy steps: 1. Open the app and tap crypto from the menu.  2. Start trading for as low as $1. What’s more, we can share our experience with the growing crypto community in Venmo! 3. Keep going by buying and [selling in just a few taps](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). A cryptocurrency is modern virtual cash secured by cryptography. [Numerous digital forms of money, such as Bitcoin](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonathanponciano/2021/06/14/bitcoins-biggest-backer-raises-500-million-to-buy-more-topping-expectations-as-crypto-surges/?sh=1682bcb7324c) and Ethereum, are decentralized networks dependent on blockchain innovation.  A characterizing highlight of cryptocurrencies is that they are generally uncontrolled by the central bank. Cryptocurrencies make it simpler to move reserves between two parties without a bank or credit card company.  In present-day digital currency systems, a user’s “wallet,” such as [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/), has a public key that secures transfers. Private keys are then used to sign these transfers. Blockchain is an established, shared ledger that accelerates tracking transactions and assets in a business operation. This technology is ideal for conveying data since it gives prompt and transparent details to account holders. According to the news I have read, PayPal partnered with Paxos to focus on this new venture on the blockchain. Paxos is a blockchain infrastructure company that has previously served PayPal in its digital asset initiatives.  With this blockchain technology, I can testify that every user can gain greater confidence and new efficiencies with Venmo. ## Venmo: An Excellent Business Tool What could be more useful than a single app that allows us to do so much more? Aside from being a digital wallet, and an avenue for trading cryptocurrencies, [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/) is also an excellent business tool.  Without a sweat, entrepreneurs can make a business profile by doing the following steps: 1. Click the profile picture in the Venmo app, and tap “Create a business profile.” 2. Customize the profile by adding details about a product offering. 3. Publish the profile and start interacting with customers! - Gain a Business Spotlight By making a business profile, Venmo users can provide customers an easy way to check out products. The profile picture, background photo, and important details can make the business noticeable in the market. Furthermore, people can share feedback regarding their product offerings. If they do so, the business profile will appear more prominently in their feeds.  - Easy to Manage and Organize I am amazed by how I can seamlessly switch from my personal profile to my business profile by using only one account. Indeed, Venmo will allow us to manage our business transactions from our personal ones separately.  Also, we can benefit from simple bookkeeping and easy gathering of customer insights.  - Secure and Touch-free Transactions [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/) allows us to collect payments through transfers in the mobile app or through a unique QR code. Entrepreneurs can display this QR code in front of their store and let the customer checkout hassle-free. - Establish an eCommerce for Free [Creating a business profile](https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/) is free, and no one will be charged monthly fees no matter how much we earn. What’s more, it allows us to take advantage of the zero seller transaction fee for the first month of our business venture.  Moving forward, Venmo will get its share by charging as low as 1.9% and $0.10 for every transaction so that both ends will benefit! ## Where this leaves us [Venmo](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/venmo/) is an excellent app for everyone who wishes to manage their transactions in one place efficiently. After setting up a profile, we can already transfer money, purchase online, receive salaries, and trade cryptocurrencies.  Also, it is a very useful tool to manage our business transactions. If anyone can prove me wrong, they can easily cancel their account via the website.  By doing so, these users will also be closing their business profiles. However, I bet every user can see how useful Venmo is and support my claim that it’s a practical application to have. If you support me and like articles like this, please feel free to check out these links: - [How Does Venmo Make Money? A Review Of Services And Fee Types](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/) - [How Does Paypal Make Money? Revenue Strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/) - [Which eCommerce Platform Is Best For Small Businesses?](https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/) Do you have any experience using the Venmo app? I’d love to know how you like it! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Avoid Facebook Jail: All the Dos and Don’ts Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-avoid-facebook-jail/ Published: 2021-05-18 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Marketing, facebook, Facebook Cover Photo TL;DR: There are two forms of Facebook bans: Permanent Blocking and Temporary Blocking. If you’re in Facebook Jail, it’s because you violated their Terms of Service. ## Table of contents #### Bottom line When Facebook jails an account, it usually restricts the account’s right to upload content or comment on content already shared by others. There are two forms of Facebook bans: Permanent Blocking and Temporary Blocking. If you’re in Facebook Jail, it’s because you violated their Terms of Service.  By taking the basic account formation steps and using Facebook regularly, you will escape Facebook prison. Reading the support section, terms, conditions, and community guidelines is the best way to avoid Facebook prison. Did you know that Facebook is still doing well as a premier social media platform despite the [recent skid](https://www.forbes.com/sites/bethkindig/2020/01/30/facebook-q4-earnings-when-free-cash-flow-isnt-enough/) in its fourth-quarter stock value? [Facebook remains one great way to promote your venture](https://alejandrorioja.com/100-bucks-facebook-ad-budget/), increase your reach, and engage with the community. But promoting in a famous site does not give you free rein to post just about anything; quite the opposite.  The site recently released community standards you must follow, and actions that will end you up in one of the more famous urban legends running around today: the famed/infamous Facebook Jail.  > Every day I get tons of messages about Facebook blocking accounts without prior warning. In fact, most of the time users are clueless why it really happened when they believe no community guidelines were even breached.  But the fact is, being haphazard with your account could lead to repercussions, and you could even end up with your account closed for up to 21 days — all that effort and time down the drain. Keeping in view your queries, in this guide. I will outline what exactly is ‘**Facebook Jail,**’ and the tips you can follow to avoid getting ‘arrested’ by the Facebook police. At the end of this article, you will be able to know:  - What “Facebook Jail” is,  - How long it lasts, - Tips to avoid getting blocked, and - Why you were blocked, So, let’s get started! Read on to know more about ‘Facebook Jail.”  ## What is Facebook Jail? Facebook Jail refers to when Facebook punishes an account – usually through limiting an account’s ability to post content or comment on content already posted by others.  Several reasons are at work when the site bans you, but they all point to one thing: the account has violated Facebook laws, and has deemed the account punishable.  Content creators, advertisers, and business pages must avoid Facebook Jail because:  1. However good of a content you have, it is useless if it cannot reach an audience, 2. Even if Facebook Jail is temporary, a few days of inactivity will put a damper on your social media presence, 3. You may lose followers in the process.  Relevant: [Trouble changing your Facebook page name? Check my guide here](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/) ## Types of Facebook Jail You can face two types of Facebook ban:  - **Permanent Blocking**  The users cannot access their accounts in any way ever again. The permanent blocking is mostly for users with massive offenses, primarily criminal, such as hacking the site’s security and the facilitation of illegal transactions.  - **Temporary Blocking**  Temporary blocking is when Facebook blocks your account or certain features of it for a limited period, after which, full functionality is restored.   Facebook Jail is mostly temporary, the maximum being 21 days. Usually, they are 3-7 day bans, but can also last up to three weeks.   The Facebook block can be classified into three tiers, depending on the severity and length of the ban. 1. **The Lowest Tier:** Bans in this tier last only as long as the timeline Facebook sets in your notification. You can also file an appeal to lift the ban even before its scheduled date.  2. **The Middle Ground**: In more severe cases, the site suspends some features of your account permanently, such as liking content or commenting on them.  Note, however, that in this case only some features of your account are blocked instead of a complete account ban. 3. **The Highest Level**: This means the complete banning of an account. Consider it gone as there is no way to retrieve it.  Usually, this is reserved for the most severe offenses, such as a hacking attempt.  The easiest way to make sure Facebook police won’t catch you is to read the community guidelines and terms and conditions, but let’s be honest, these guidelines are too long tedious to read, I wouldn’t, and you wouldn’t either.  But, I have collated a few tips that you can follow to escape the prying eyes of Facebook to keep your account safe from being blocked.  ## Avoid Facebook Jail Through Simple Account Creation Steps Avoiding Facebook Jail is not exactly tricky, though you have to be careful. Here are some of the tips you should follow to avoid Facebook jail.  They are easy to do and are part of a normal account creation process, but can save your account from being flagged. **1\. Complete your Facebook profile.** First things first! A profile with only half the details will be flagged as incomplete. If one posts to communities or groups with an incomplete profile, then it may lead Facebook to believe that your account is only used for posting to groups, and that will be marked as spam. Make sure your details are up to date, and your ‘About’ page is complete.  **2\. Verify Your Account Through Mobile** ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/hSjJYjSjTJGaXFys7Tg2nA0fsN725VF4ttBkijdVsh25hjpyUDRq0n2q-Z2BZlkzRiSQJduOa_QFQj-mDE4xsJbTnAEX4KHSm_7jHgpBYsQAmLw2dixaxdxdh4xWHoOytC2HjiME) Before doing just about anything else, add your phone number to your Facebook account, then verify it.  Doing this allows Facebook to verify your existence, and that you are a functioning human being and not some bot or a fake account. An unverified account will have a hard time posting without being flagged or even blocked because of spamming.  Here’s [how to verify your FB page](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/).  **3\. Know-How Facebook Works** Ending up in Facebook Jail means that you did not use the site correctly and that you violated some rules. One way to prevent this is to read the help section, terms and conditions, and community guidelines.  Sounds tedious right? So I am going to tell you two basic rules to note when using Facebook.  1. Do not use the name of a business as the name for a personal account. You cannot participate in groups using your profile with the name of your business, perhaps with the intention of posting on its behalf.  2. Biographies are meant to be used by actual people and named with their real names. Two ways to get around this is to create a personal profile, then link your business in the information section, or to just create a new page for your business.  3. Every person can only have ONE Facebook account. Some people are banned because they have a personal account and a business account used for private purposes.  Get around this by maintaining only one personal account with links to all the different pages and businesses you want to market so that the Facebook algorithm would not ban you. [](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) ## Avoid Facebook Jail When Using Facebook Daily Now that the simple tips have been enumerated, we move on to pointers to follow when using Facebook on a daily basis.  **1\. Time your posts.**   No site caters to spammers, even Facebook. Posting the same content in multiple pages or groups at nearly the same time alerts the Facebook sheriff about this activity.  Avoid jail time by simply waiting a few minutes between each post, or by using a post-scheduling app to make sure that you will not be flagged as “suspicious.”  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Q-uwuQ-U0eJkXb5oVWqwBVlNfTd3z9JlPRvwC0CivSfzGsveUu3KkWpx-EC2qE7qAYALRtq-yVvSaM6uieZr4xlS1w2Woh-zlRmkYoQ25eFH9sx1PjCjezuqaHrvyitqZUzvFSBI) **2\.   Make authentic content.** My experience tells that content creators are often blocked because they use images from Google image search, which have been marked as SPAM already. Your post will then contain the same complaints as that photo.  Originality doesn’t only apply to pictures. Any sort of post shared by many people at once will likely be marked as SPAM.  To simply put it, create your own content so you would not be put in Facebook Jail.  **3\.   Make it personal. Tag carefully.**  This tip has multiple applications and implications.  1. Avoid anonymity. Knowing the people you add and letting the people know you reduce the risk of being flagged as SPAM as well as improves your image credibility.  2. Conduct your posts based on honesty and real-world relationships. For instance, if you start tagging people who do not know you,  you may be reported for SPAM complaints.  3. Do not add people to groups without their consent.  4. Post using your personal profile.  5. Only tag people if they are actually connected to the post or image.  All in all, this points to not acting weird and creepy. For sure, I would not want to be added by a person I don’t know or be tagged in something I have nothing to do with.  **4\.   Do not share prohibited content.**  I mean, this one is pretty straightforward and is just common sense, but many people seem to forget (or willingly forget). Facebook is monitored; prohibited activities will get you banned.  This includes, but is not limited to:  1. Sexually suggestive posts 2. Posting nudity  3. Hate speech 4. Intense racism or xenophobia 5. Direct attacks on others 6. Imposters and posers 7. Fake timelines  8. Self-harming content  9. Links to malicious software  Refrain from sharing these types of content so you won’t be flagged as abusive.  **5\.   Be vigilant of saboteurs.**  There will be no shortage of people who will drag you down and play dirty. Any post you make can be attacked by so-called network “trolls,” which will flag your content for being harmful when it is, in fact, clean. If you see such behavior on your page, group, or community; then delete the post, block them from seeing you, and report the account to Facebook. Hopefully, the “troll” will be the one who will land on Facebook Jail.  **6\.   Avoid excessive behavior.**  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dRO9W0druguACXFqvnOgC8hvpjsZGgFiNlR8dhwakK4OAi57y9rixEpt00mAu0tCV4VJGD0hUTo673vVBwB96XcmbXQ440fF4s7apCjzg8NbeW3te6M5TXS_LnQzbIahGWZ5CZFc) Facebook can stop you from commenting or even liking any post when you are under what is called “Facebook Timeout.” This usually occurs when you get marked as a SPAM-bot because of excessive liking and commenting.  Other times, the excessive posting is a recipe to get sent to Facebook jail for the same reason listed above.  Control your pace at which you comment, like, and post. Facebook not only does this to filter SPAM-bots but also to control the flow of information traffic in their servers. ‘ **7\.   Take a hint. Drop it.**  Suppose in the real world, someone does not like what you do, and you are told of that fact. Chances are you will stop doing that because you are inconveniencing them.  Social media is mostly the same. If groups are disallowing or disapproving your post, then drop it.  Stop posting to these groups anymore, because once you are reported as a spam poster, then the Facebook “Sheriff” will turn his eyes to you.  ## Why Am I In Facebook Jail?  Simple. If you are in Facebook Jail, then you must have committed a [violation](https://www.cnbc.com/2018/04/24/facebook-content-that-gets-you-banned-according-to-community-standards.html) of their Terms of Service, such as the ones I talked about earlier.  One recently emerging reason for getting banned on Facebook is suspicious payments.  Fraud with payments through Facebook will instantly get you banned, and any payment made through the fraudulent card will be reversed.  No site likes stolen credit cards or any other conduct that constitutes fraud. It could not only land you in Facebook Jail but in real cold prison for criminals.   Take care of these; follow tips so that you won’t find your account banned for misconduct. You may find a lot of tricks online to get out of Facebook jail, but believe me, these are all tricks to make money out of your desperation. Do not download Javascripts or click links to any website. Facebook is well-equipped to detect any fraudulent or illegal activities, so my advice is to play it fair and Facebook will grant you full access to your account. And that is it. Liked this post? Have you ever been banned by Facebook? Tell me about it in the comments section below.   Feel free to share this post to spread these tips on avoiding Facebook Jail.  Read more Facebook-related articles here.  - [Ways in which Facebook Make Money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [How to design a great cover photo](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/) - [Your guide to doing a reverse image search on Facebook, Google, and Pinterest](https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-image-search-on-google-facebook-pinterest/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## 10 Best Affiliate Marketing Programs To Sign Up For Today! Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/10-best-affiliate-marketing-programs/ Published: 2021-05-09 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Get a Google Ads account with $100 credits 7. Become verified under Google’s My Business feature 8. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* One of the many ways you can earn through the internet is to share various affiliate links with your audience. To get one, you can look through various sites and learn about their affiliate program. After applying successfully for one, you can get multiple links that you can share. When someone clicks on your link and buys a product or service from the affiliate link, you get a commission depending on the program. In this article, let us learn about some of the many [affiliate programs you can sign up](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/). Before that, do watch this video for a short introduction on what affiliate marketing is: ## Bluehost ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BS6eNtRz778edFnBVV7NHn_QwvlUqNYu55-qUPLg0GDIlDZQjJBmv-DWYnOXuaA-4z-9xQQKwbUia93wvMqCCccIlThDhtovivDM9vPjQiW8yj67EadAFZ9vGGMAnunBckkbJnPy) [Bluehost is one of the many web hosting services](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/) available on the Internet. According to [TechTerms](https://techterms.com/definition/webhost), a web hosting service is a company that keeps a copy of your website on their servers and keeps it listed on the Internet. Once a visitor enters your site in their browser, the browser loads it from their server. ### Features In this section, let us view the different services that [Bluehost](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bluehost/) can provide to their customers. It is divided into the following plans: shared hosting, WordPress hosting, VPS hosting, and dedicated hosting. #### Shared hosting If you are aiming to build a website for your small business or blog in the future, you can choose from any of their available shared hosting services. When choosing a [plan](https://www.bluehost.com/hosting/shared) for this specific service, you want between 12 months to 36 months as your subscription. Aside from that, you can get all the services when you sign up for any of them: 1. A system to manage your domains 2. Automatically distribute all your website resources 3. Upgrade your websites in one click 4. Make use of Let’s Encrypt to safeguard all sensitive information exchanged within your website 5. Get a Microsoft Advertising account with $100 credits 6. Get a Google Ads account with $100 credits 7. Become verified under Google’s My Business feature 8. Feature your business in Google Maps After that, you can get the following features depending on which plan you will select from below: 1. Basic - Manage one website - Have access to 50GB SSD storage - Unmetered bandwidth - Use one included domain - Use up to 5 parked domains - Create up to 25 subdomains 2. Plus - Manage any number of websites - Have access to unlimited SSD storage - Have access to unlimited bandwidth - Ensure all your sites will have standard performance - Use any number of domains - Use any number of parked domains - Use any number of subdomains - Gain access to various spam experts - Make use of an Office 365 account with free 30 days 3. Choice Plus - Same features of the Plus plan - Protect all your domains using a privacy and protection strategy - Have access to backup your site making use of CodeGuard Basic 4. Pro - Same features of the Choice Plus plan - Talk to 2 spam experts - Use a dedicated IP for your sites #### WordPress hosting Compared to shared hosting, getting [this plan](https://www.bluehost.com/wordpress/managed-hosting) will help you integrate your website with the WordPress platform. If you want to know how to make use of the platform, you can check out this video for a sneak peek: Aside from gaining access to WordPress Pro, you can also get any of the following if you signed up for this type of plan: 1. Create any number of websites 2. Make use of any number of domains 3. Organize as many subdomains as possible 4. Gain access to unlimited web storage for all your sites using SSD 5. Test any of your websites in a staging environment 6. Adjust to any traffic coming to and from all your websites 7. Encrypt all information passed between you and your users using SSL 8. Make use of Akismet to block any harmful or unwanted content throughout all your websites 9. Be verified on Google 10. Total visibility on Google Maps 11. Enable CDN and multi-layer caching to load your sites faster 12. Automatically manages any WordPress update 13. Year-round customer service 14. 1-month long money-back guarantee You can then choose between the following plans for this type of service for a period of 12 months to 36 months: 1. Build - Get site analysis using Jetpack Basic - Have access to their built-in Marketing Center - Make use of 100+ free WordPress themes - Detect and remove any malware present in your websites - Defend against spam and identity thieves using their domain privacy and protection system - Get an Office 365 mailbox account with free 30 days 2. Grow - All the features in Build - Upgrade from Jetpack Basic to Premium - Let your customers leave reviews for search websites like Yelp, Google, Yahoo, and Microsoft Advertising - Boost any of your website’s presence through its built-in SEO tools - Add advertisements through Jetpack - Compress 10GB worth of videos - Call Blue Sky ticket support when needed 3. Scale - All the features in Grow - Upgrade from Jetpack Basic to Pro - Perform backups and restores as much as you like - Integrate Paypal to any of your websites - Compress any video files you will use - Add search filters and features using Elastic Search - Contact support through Blue Sky Chat #### VPS hosting Unlike the previous hosting methods, VPS [involves](https://techterms.com/definition/vps) making use of software to load and access any number of websites. This method helps you gain access to more physical servers. It enables you to maximize [Bluehost’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bluehost/) physical resources to keep your websites up and running. Unlike the previous plans, you just have to pay a fixed fee per month for the following plans for this hosting method: 1. Standard - Use 2-core processors - Use up to 30 GB SSD storage - Use up to 2 GB RAM - Limited bandwidth of up to 1 TB - Update your website’s files through one IP address 2. Enhanced - Same features as Standard - Upgrade of up to 60GB SSD storage - Upgrade of up to 4GB RAM - Upgrade of up to 2 TB bandwidth - Upgrade of up to two IP addresses 3. Ultimate - Use 4-core processors - Use up to 120GB SSD storage - Use up to 8GB RAM - Use up to 3TB bandwidth - Use up to two IP addresses Aside from these features, you can get the following if you avail any of the plans: 1. Bluehost pays for your domain name’s first year 2. Cancel a plan within 30 days with a full refund 3. Call for support 24/7 4. SSL certificate for all your websites 5. Use CentOS to manage your website files 6. Make use of the included cPanel to manage your VPS settings #### Dedicated hosting This hosting type is reserved for website owners who have the greatest need for computing resources, privacy, and control. It is set up where each server is its own unit and is not shared to others while being able to change the site without hindering any of its users. On the get-go, you can get the following benefits: 1. Bluehost pays for your domain name’s first year 2. Cancel a plan within 30 days with a full refund 3. Call for support 24/7 4. SSL certificate for all your sites 5. Can keep at pace with website upgrades 6. Adding new servers takes between one to three days 7. RAID1 units are used for storage 8. Manage your setup through the included cPanel interface Here are the monthly plans you can avail:  1. Standard - Use a 4-core processor at 2.3 GHz - Use up to 500GB mirrored storage - Use 4GB RAM - Use up to 5TB bandwidth - Use up to three IP addresses 2. Enhanced - Use a 4-core processor at 2.5 GHz - Use up to 1TB mirrored storage - Use 8GB RAM - Use up to 10TB bandwidth - Use up to four IP addresses 3. Premium - Use a 4-core processor at 3.3 GHz - Use up to 1TB mirrored storage - Use 16GB RAM - Use up to 15TB bandwidth - Use up to fiveIP addresses ### How to sign up For every person who signs up for any of [Bluehost’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bluehost/) services, you can get $65. This means that the more people subscribe to it every month will help you earn passively from your site. There are several benefits to joining their program: 1. There is no cap given to how much you can earn 2. No cost to sign up for an affiliate account 3. Cookies with Bluehost last for up to 90 days Signing up requires visiting their affiliate site, which is shown below, then click on the “Sign Up” button. You then fill out your name, email, website URL, and your PayPal information. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/V8q2nXNH3m4zNk5iDftklP4a6XUBkiFHf52OfH8MB9veoh6EjWKmWXM8KWOdRJ_qkxx0-VzX2JOAckibYPkThTVqV-mT7LMBj_0N-y-NhX2QNHf4DLHdQ4blNKmSLkGErtlglO1w) After providing your personal information, you would also have to fill up a tax form, depending on where you are signing up for the affiliate program. US residents and businesses have to fill out the W-9 Form. Meanwhile, non-US ones have to fill up the W-8BEN Form. You will then receive a reply from Bluehost within the day you have submitted all the requirements above. The link they provide with you is what you can share with your visitors to get your referrals. When you get a successful referral within the month, the amount will be sent to your indicated PayPal account between the 16th and the last day of the next month. None of the earnings will be deducted throughout this process. According to a review from [BloggersPassion](https://bloggerspassion.com/bluehost-affiliate-program-review/), they noticed the following increase in referral sales after talking to their assigned affiliate manager: 1. They earned $65 per successful referral once they were accepted into the referral program. 2. Reaching between five to ten successful referrals every month helped them get a $75 rate for each action. 3. Attaining ten to fifteen referrals earned them $100 per successful action. 4. Reaching more than twenty successful referrals got them $120 for each one. 5. Finally, reaching more than 50 successful referrals can earn $150 per sale. ## Bigcommerce ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YBUQkaI_zc74iyTUlcYY8USqyeOxJ-D6M45xa146KskgioZ-_Md66EphfIy10jBuQu1Pwcqc1A1VsBRXoxRmCwJme3Uh4pxwcE3SaFptcCcWEaTIKh9T3UiKjzEWAHFLakZOQUUO) [BigCommerce is one of the largest e-commerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-review/) known today. This service enables you to set up your own online business, from designing your website to keeping it in check. ### Features Once you sign up with [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/), you can gain the following advantages: 1. Make use of their built-in dashboard that is easy to use 2. Enable your shop to be SEO friendly 3. You can make your e-commerce website flexible and scalable 4. Gain access to various e-commerce website designs 5. Include a module to check warehouses and dropshipping 6. Be able to sell your products in different channels 7. Integrate with various payment gateways 8. Enable access to their customer support service 9. Zero transaction fees 10. Remind customers using their cart abandonment service 11. Use a point-of-service (POS) Do take note that you might experience any of the following: 1. Learn the technology used in this service 2. Unable to sell on a mobile application 3. Managing a larger store would mean higher fees 4. You may experience inconsistent speed When it comes to their plans, they have the following: 1. Standard - Post any number of products to sell on your website - Let any number of persons manage the website - Post links to your products in other e-commerce channels such as eBay, Amazon, and Google Shopping - Manage coupons, discounts, and gift cards - Learn how much you need to pay for shipping - Access product ratings and reviews - Contact their 24/7 support 2. Plus - Features of Standard plan - Gain access to the abandoned cart service - Create a program to reward frequent shoppers - Manage credit cards 3. Pro - Features of Plus plan - Manage reviews of any of your products through Google reviews - Add filters to help look for the right products - Create a unique custom SSL to your business site ### How to sign up ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Eqx6eX2q5Tn7WZAXKg4EeeFeHADInk1nihCpNJxuPTdfGbXMq-dmqctvihmYnmaPjg1GVEiov-7UIExm_0OE4_JMXdoQDXRl21VS1i9Y4gtS3GD43_RFPPNsLmO_vzEUVoPsUPXE) Once you visit BigCommerce’s affiliate page, you sign up for a referral program for your site.  You then have to enter your information into a form that includes the following: 1. Name 2. Email address 3. BigCommerce Affiliate username and password 4. Business information 5. Bank information 6. Promotion methods 7. Websites connected to your business Then, you will proceed to create a profile for your business using their built-in referral dashboard. After that, you can get a unique link that you can use for your business to let your visitors click. You can only earn depending on any transaction done in your affiliate’s sites made through your link. How much you earn determines which action happened to your referral’s website, as listed below: 1. Sold an item in a website signed up for the Standard, Pro, or Plus plans – $60 2. Make an Enterprise account – $40 3. Sold an item under an Enterprise account – $1,500 4. Register for a BigCommerce account – $1.50 You can keep track of it by using the BigCommerce affiliate credentials you have submitted when you sign up on their website. This dashboard can also give you suggestions to increase your affiliate numbers too. ## IPVanish ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1Z0ZNsOTyPyczdrMcsnSFLH28BSZafY8OYegZpb2aKMQN9ulze7hxRO0_OmhgJd3I67DB9uv4aVwCBHSI87i-01mDrsEol_meqnbGCQbOtje6dzxKyb3VSwJ9ImIkbZGCteIGr9u) Shortened to the acronym VPN, a [Virtual Private Network](https://www.howtogeek.com/133680/htg-explains-what-is-a-vpn/) enables you to connect to the Internet through a secure connection.  Aside from protecting your sensitive information from possible identity thieves, you can make use of it to access region-restricted websites. You can also make use of this service to hide your browsing activity and current location at the same time.  ### Features When you sign up to any of the available plans, you can get any of the features below: 1. Make use of a library of user-friendly apps for any of your devices 2. Tap into at least 40,000 shared IPs 3. Gain access to at least 1,400 VPN servers in more than 75 locations 4. No data limit while using IPVanish 5. Avoid throttling your network connection 6. Protect your data using 256-bit AES encryption 7. IPVanish never tracks down your internet usage 8. Make use of a SOCKS5 proxy that hides your IP address 9. Access censored websites 10. Combine several VPN protocols 11. Use up to 250GB encrypted storage and backup 12. Have up to 10 simultaneous connections on any device using this account 13. Send a message to their customer support service 14. Make use of their 30-day money-back guarantee The available packages when using this service depends on how long you want to make use of it. They include the following: 1. One year 2. Three months 3. One month If you want to avail of their service for even less, you can take a look at their [Coupons](https://www.ipvanish.com/coupons/). You can also qualify for their [Student Discount](https://www.ipvanish.com/student-discount/) if you are a college student or educator too. For businesses, you can avail of their service by opting for their [VPN for Teams](https://www.ipvanish.com/teams/). ### How to sign up ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a77itDHvTZ-NXq0AyRQC_Qj-DkWID9Un027Ds7QbYNaxesW2yUTfIc_LgkgnFpNwNUqIKya_uZHVcNoF-abflZthxM177Q24JUYGiWgwFxHOiM13iaUQJT574SCT_IMx3ciHcb8i) Compared to the other affiliate programs on this list, IPVanish made a separate website for you to create and manage your affiliates called AffiliateGroove. Once you go to their sign-up form, you would have to fill up the following: 1. AffiliateGroove username and password 2. Full name 3. Website URL 4. Company information 5. A method in promoting IPVanish 6. PayPal details Once you have signed up to their affiliate program using the information above, you can join a worldwide group of marketers, webmasters, social media influencers, and bloggers to increase the number of affiliates together. When it comes to their rates, you can get up to 100% referrals pay when they sign up using your IPVanish referral link. Then, if they renew their subscription, you can get up to 35% to you. Do take note that if you earn at least $100 per month, the amount will be sent to your PayPal account whether you are located in the US or not. If you live within the US, you can opt to have it deposited into a specific bank account. ## Buzzsprout Buzzsprout is one of the many podcast services you can avail of on the Internet. Podcasts are one of the many mediums anyone with a stable Internet connection can muster. Usually, people create one to become their disc jockey, talk show host, or recording artist. [HowStuffWorks](https://computer.howstuffworks.com/internet/basics/podcasting.htm) defines it as another form of blogging. Unlike [traditional blogging](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/) that makes use of a website to post various media online, podcasts enable their visitors to listen in and download any audio file of the content to their own devices. Now, let us take a look at Buzzsprout’s features and its affiliate program. ### Features ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/YD88eJqIkZiYdEn_fQ6SiiB5Xv8_7b6B-yI25UadV7vK64rbl2IVdxL1d6GPWN7oI_lDRke-W4b25YFEudUM7LrZfJyzylmDfR9Xw_LR1GjQxnKmRbTJJQUaZnNR3bLr4obeo4sO) There are a lot of features you can utilize once you choose Buzzsprout as your podcast host: 1. Get your podcast listed in websites such as Spotify and TuneIn 2. Keep track of all listeners of each podcast episode 3. Create a custom podcast player for your website where your visitors can listen to on the spot 4. Make use of its built-in dashboard to upload your audio file and schedule when to go live 5. Add a helpful transcription for each podcast episode 6. Manage any number of podcasts per account per plan 7. Let anyone manage any of your listed podcasts per account per plan 8. Add chapter markers for each podcast 9. Learn about the podcasting craft through educational resources 10. Integrate with your existing tools such as Alitu and Podtrac 11. Create a customizable, flexible website for each podcast Aside from that, you can also join their [Creator Program](https://www.buzzsprout.com/creator). This program can help you join the community with fellow podcast creators to succeed in their way. It includes a monthly stipend based on your level of influence and Buzzsprout swag, among other freebies. Take note of the following pricing levels and their features: 1. Free - Upload up to 2 hours of podcast per month - Episodes stay up for 90 days - Includes advertisement in your Buzzsprout website - Pay to have the ads removed 2. $12 level - Upload up to 3 hours of podcast per month - Add more than 3 hours by paying $4 per extra hour - Episodes stay up indefinitely - Store as much as you can - Enables you to import past podcasts for free - Pay an additional $6 for Magic Mastering 3. $18 level - Upload up to 6 hours of podcast per month - Add more than 6 hours of content by paying $3 per extra hour - Episodes stay up indefinitely - Store as much as you can - Enables you to import past podcasts for free - Pay an additional $9 for Magic Mastering 4. $24 level - Upload up to 12 hours of podcast per month - Add more than 12 hours of content by paying $2 per extra hour - Episodes stay up indefinitely - Store as much as you can - Enables you to import past podcasts for free - Pay an additional $12 for Magic Mastering 5. Buzzsprout Pro ($49 per month, requires between 20,000 to 40,000 episode downloads per month) - Includes up to 1TB of data transfer outbound limit - Outbound bandwidth that exceeds 1TB is billed at $50 per terabyte ### How to sign up ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/U5jdOkzvUJxAfYXF8d9JL4W6vf04uJwwUAZhsz5tkLPkUJMv16AZFNKgMk4sovnXjotRSTJvm-yE4OE196-RzYUyrbHcEeLSBLsAr3Swvu4v-z5p_-Wfgqs9JMt9IxYKtJv_PvmK) Once you sign up to this program, you can gain access to any of the following commissions: 1. Get a one-time payment of $25 for each referral 2. Get a recurring lifetime commission for all paid referrals 3. You and your referral gets a $20 Amazon gift card (once the referred user remains in a paid plan for at least two consecutive billing cycles) 4. Increases your chance for a paid referral through the use of attribution cookies 5. Contact Buzzsprout to convince more to become your referral 6. Gain commission for sending anyone to Buzzsprout’s podcast guides Once you opt to sign in with their affiliate program, you have to fill in a form that includes your podcast website information. You can choose whether to opt for the one-time payment or the recurring payment method to earn passively.  After submitting this information, you would have to wait for their approval. After approval, make sure to log into your account at least once every six months to keep it active. Forgetting to do so will let your account get deleted in the process. ## TripAdvisor Speaking of referrals, one of the most frequent types of services that takes advantage of them is travel-related websites. TripAdvisor is a website that helps travelers find places they can visit in almost any known country on the planet. Let us explore what features you can use and what its affiliate referral program entails. ### Features ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/acGZrRoWWum8nrKaGkOfzRqTWaVXA8uh3ZlkMHWKI3CNE6-SeriLZSPLtNunsmM1RSDke1ddNHwpnebB4FimKu2HJyguCx78HlstjiL6ogNdj51JCuVhh0c3LGLl7GWrgTg-xosH) As a travel website, you can do the following: 1. Buy their [travel insurance](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Insurance) 2. Post and react to reviews 3. Add photos of tourist places 4. Save your future itinerary in a [list](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Trips) 5. Learn which destinations have [promos](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Inbox) 6. Book a [reservation](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Bookings) 7. Share knowledge on a [forum](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ForumHome) 8. View and avail airline [deals](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Airlines) Doing any of these requires you to sign up and log in to your TripAdvisor account. Using these features, you can find the nearest hotel, museums, and the like when you are planning a future vacation.  Aside from that, you can also look at the best tourist destinations based on pictures of other users left about the area. You can also access TripAdvisor applications, such as SeatGuru and GateGuru, to plan your future trip better. ### How to sign up ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/EWDTMaBb9waghVuAHM51dn2Z8dQAEOh8H7BQSTgTpMZ0cVJim_5tuuegEyEE2C5AuvZC2GpBTlfNKe5DTxUSTWYi2-mwwi3QqSU5fCaiZeWzbJTfMXRqs-CtViH-ammMh2aQl8UZ) There are two ways to sign up as a TripAdvisor affiliate. The first way is to sign up for an account through AWIN. Another way is to sign up for CJ Affiliates. No matter which one you sign up in, the next step is to look for TripAdvisor and apply to be an affiliate there. Once you have been approved in either program, you are given a unique link. Using this link, you add it to your website to attract your visitors to go to TripAdvisor, and you can earn commissions. Your commission rates can increase depending on the number of people who book a hotel or reserve a restaurant using the link. After a successful transaction, you can earn at least 50% from it. The amount you receive increases with the number of referrals per month too. Aside from that, you can also earn commissions if your visitors just click on the referral link and look up various hotel partners. This will last over 14 days. ## Bankrate Credit Cards According to [Investopedia](https://www.investopedia.com/articles/pf/10/credit-card-debit-card.asp), using a credit card the right way can help you use it as an advantage to your expenses. This includes initial bonuses once you spend on a card you just got recently. Aside from that, you can get rebates on your purchases, whether it depends on what item to achieve spending caps. Several other advantages include converting the amount you used a credit card for in exchange for special points. These points can be redeemed later for big-ticket purchases, such as airline tickets. Finally, you can keep track of your expenses and reduce your chances of getting into money fraud. Once you purchase something using it, it will show up as a record for the past month. Credit card providers will help you recover the stolen funds too. Let us explore one of the many credit card services, Bankrate Credit Cards, to see what they can offer and their affiliate program. ### Features ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nkan1y8HBqS1BrDDjsZIDNiXaBwctpzKogPm3omd-ollyxW-AwAcOaEfG8zGtEa-noJoDXQBtp2CmxetJ_CtyDG8IXL3jbQ4iaqhWzB7V2CQ2oARbo6TOvSiu0_LrRanDSefqFBV) Unlike the other items on this list, the service they are offering is unique. They are the middlemen between credit card providers and possible advertisers. There are two ways to sign up for their service. First, you can help connect your website’s visitors into referrals for various financial institutions partnered with this company. Their other service revolves around connecting to them as a financial partner. As an offer, they will help businesses to increase their customers using the [CPA-based business model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-cpa-marketing/) to increase sales while protecting the company’s image. ### How to sign up ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Uiu2oXjEooMpQ366D5X_xSA5nTNcoFfqifYUyq0r1W0IgvQIYyRKnLtX4z4OAChpYsbdyRSvLxBBO7UOJmU11XIzLFI0eKxvKe4VRPdwak8Pqmaxc4ZwqSGDDiN7YmJOeKu9_OHA) First, you go to their main website and sign up for an account as a publisher. Then, you can now log in and browse their marketplace of affiliates. There, you can select which financial companies to advertise then use their dashboard to maintain a list of links associated with them. You will then get paid, depending on the affiliate program you signed up with them. Getting this account can also help you gain access to the following: 1. Contact their excellent customer service 2. Add their exclusive content onto your website 3. Track your referrals ## BodyFit There are many reasons as to why you should keep yourself healthy. [Healthline](http://www.healthline.com/health/) has defined a healthy habit as a “behavior that benefits your overall health.” Performing more healthy habits than harmful ones is beneficial to you in various ways. Having them will help you keep your weight down, keep you more relaxed, prevent lifetime diseases,  and avoid feeling sluggish. Let us explore a service that can assist various people in keeping themselves healthy. ### Features ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1ogPEbumXGsSresGwv35WvesxFlyXLifOyfyO_wxOde9KRKiltXyY9Yuwn8YBNyThtcrUHU94gcDn_i_e4LpJEVIYhpC4FEZrR0zxBo2JYkrXyEsWKBaz5jXH2PxmHHQQRRMQnMB) BodyBuilding is a site where people can buy items that can help keep themselves fit. This includes the following products: 1. Protein supplements 2. Pre-workout snacks 3. Post-workout snacks 4. Weight management snacks 5. Workout equipment 6. Workout clothes 7. Vitamin supplements 8. Fitness books and resources Aside from that, you can also talk to other people on their forum regarding fitness and fitness products. As a reference, the website also has a list of various fitness plans depending on your goal too. ### How to sign up ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IAj4_hn-ASXbmt-V_16wvuYt4BV3kPzOZsUi2EGWZlUJoDRHzcffk2TyTYK28gugYb3kAbxhEpC3wcQkOWBOokKYS-1H7EUS0zwAsGndoG3mMXMxnMTuR9pMa5MyK5H93xDh5B_T) Signing up to their affiliate program starts with signing up with their third-party company called [Impact](http://app.impact.com/campaign-campaign-info-v2/Bodybuildingcom.brand?io=09TcYU%2Bj%2Fo54HDzf7EYNMOzssPzgyfcL9bCVrFpDBPRjCwU%2FBCM5L094SpUPlNTR). You will then receive a reply within three days whether you have qualified for their program. Making a new account with them does not ask you to pay for it. Take note that your affiliate relationship with Impact depends on how active your website and social media presence is as a whole. They will also ask for examples of how you will promote any of the companies you need to advertise on your website too. You can earn through the following actions: 1. New affiliates who successfully ordered at fitness and nutrition websites on Impact – 8% 2. Returning affiliates who successfully ordered at fitness and nutrition websites on Impact – 3% 3. Affiliates who make use of a coupon for fitness and nutrition websites on Impact in any transaction – 2% The payout frequency is 45 days after each successful transaction. You can only withdraw any of it once it reaches $50. ## THC University Now, if you are interested in promoting the use of cannabis within the US only, there are also several websites that let you sign in as an affiliate.  According to [HealthLine](https://www.healthline.com/health/medical-marijuana/benefits-of-marijuana#benefits), several physicians have recommended it for those who have arthritis or migraines to alleviate pain. Aside from that, it can also benefit those who are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome too. Let’s check out what THC University is and what its affiliate program is all about. ### Features ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iScZVAK9KV7xG-mrwklzInK5WhS93Tg3OOp20CjSnqzomswW-lGkP8IfFhvAe3eMkPpKB3EAdS3LqRA4PGBDnCzptPIEJfpsAOlyMRod4eZJc-7AIQ-3i-El2kumetVKGVRB3-ae) THC University is an online service where people can learn about cannabis. After finishing any of their programs, you can be licensed to manufacture, distribute, and sell products with cannabis. In addition to graduating, they also have a THCU-exclusive job board where they can find a place to work. When applying, the online university gives them their resume and interview guidance as well. Here are the following programs a graduate can get a certification in: 1. Introduction to CBD 2. Essential Oils and Cannabis 3. Budtender Basics 4. Marijuana 101 5. Grow Basics 6. Horticulture Specialist 7. Cannabis Business 8. Safety and Regulations for Colorado 9. Safety and Regulations for Washington There are two ways where you can gain full access to their courses: 1. Student - One-time payment - Unlimited access to all THCU content - Can only be used for one person 2. Business Program - Covers access between five to more than a hundred people - Intended for business owners - Discount for each team member applies - Gains access to the same benefits as the regular student edition ### How to sign up ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/G7v3l9ZleFL7w3tLuIrfhb9YdLJx9pEiAp6mXbNTIktjmXBYBUjo78Kzb0oSo2QsHWnwCtirTCePKaHpWDgPB_ujqqxI1lyLI3c1T8kK2wRSf54awaL7a6vIK5FPHzo3UmUHkFbk) If you want to sign up as an affiliate, you would have to go to their [Affiliate](https://thcuniversity.org/affiliate-registration/) page and fill in the details found in the form at the bottom of the page. This form will ask for your name, THCU credentials, email address, payment email address, website URL, and how you will promote them. You will then get a unique referral ID which you can post on your website for your visitors to learn. Once they enter it during their signup, it will net you $25 for each person who pays for a student account there. Then, once you earn at least $50 in commissions, you can retrieve your earnings through PayPal. For US residents, you can get it through a debit card. It will be paid out on the 15th every month. The full amount can only be credited once the referral stays for 30 days and does not refund, revoke, or remove their subscription. Also, an affiliate account will be shut down if it promotes or portrays the online university that is against their policies. ## JNCO Jeans One of the most popular affiliate programs available is about clothing. This is due to the rise of online shopping and how most people have at least one mobile phone with them. According to [Statistica](https://www.statista.com/statistics/330695/number-of-smartphone-users-worldwide/), they predicted that there will be 3.5 billion smartphone users this year. This gave the clothing industry the idea to have an online store where their customers can buy and pick up any of their products. Doing this will help them still have a steady customer base even if their physical stores don’t sell as well. For the final affiliate program, I will write about one of these brands and how to sign up for it. ### About JNCO ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SqERg-Njc4RZN8ybsD6B8mzP05_oCxEDyGFzc2UXt_3N64_0sKCwioR2GgsUzgY3EhyHlmlm7PORUzC7KzZuXZBry5N6m7B9uCkkn-ohXV6ETs3yVE1DTIPMgv3WJzwxbBzX3XxY) This jeans brand opened in 1985 in America. Since then, they stayed in Los Angeles, California, and made itself a unique brand within music, sports, and culture. Their jeans are unique due to the following: 1. Comes with a unique “flasher” 2. Swiss-made labels 3. Unique embroidery that is specific to the style you ordered 4. Solid brass rivets 5. Buttons made out of high-quality alloy 6. Sustainable mills for the fabric 7. Coded polymer in the label 8. Custom-made zipper pulls Aside from their famous pair of jeans, they have amassed quite an inventory of other pieces of clothing. This includes shorts, hoodies, and long sleeves to match their customer’s growing tastes. ### How to sign up ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Ih2pKQlRaG7e9ZcumR5uY7z3hoq7jsnQuEjphnEqADHQdEEHO9cA0ZWsqkWIU2ZxmpSGnh6E5GNoOaGj91MUfleS9kk24UkmmrnjL8MNLhzAoMnvPS7nCElBm2IcRkIYGExsQ_ih) When signing up for their referral program, you would have to go to their Affiliate site first. There, a form will ask you for your name and account details. Once you have submitted this information, you can log-in through this website to get your referral code. Your commission will only come once a referral successfully pays for online purchases through the link. Your rate will start at 20% of the total bill of sale.  ## Wrapping up! In this article, we have reviewed ten of the millions of affiliate programs available today. Signing up for any of these will help your website, whether it is for health or finance, to increase visitors. At the same time, you can also earn to keep your website afloat. Were any of these affiliate marketing programs good? If you signed up for these for your blog, take your time to read these articles to help you grow your business: - [Learn all about Google analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/)  - [A complete guide to SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)  - [What is SERP?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-serp/)  Comment below on your experience with affiliate programs. If you want me to cover any specific topic about affiliate marketing, I would love to hear that too! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Guidelines for Sizing and Designing an AMAZING Facebook Cover Photo Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/ Published: 2021-05-02 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, Cover Photo Marketing, Facebook Cover Photo, Resizing Cover Photo TL;DR: The Facebook cover photo should be 820 pixels long by 312 pixels tall on desktops and 640 pixels by 360 pixels tall on smartphones. Social media was initially used to create and maintain connections or relationships between people. ## Table of contents Tl;dr: The Facebook cover photo should be **820 pixels long by 312 pixels tall on desktops** and **640 pixels by 360 pixels tall on smartphones**. Social media was initially used to create and maintain connections or relationships between people. Nowadays, social media has turned into a powerful marketing tool for business. Facebook is dominating the social media platform of brand advertising because of its powerful grip on the so-called “netizens.” [Instagram continues to grow](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) and gather more viewers and market because of its social media influencers who are paid to promote or give “shout outs” of various products and online services. ## **Why does it matter?** One of the essential elements of Facebook that significantly affects business advertising is the cover photo. Using Facebook cover photos is the most practical marketing strategy. It is a free asset which has the same potential to generate more sales as compared to paid advertisements. Knowing how to create a cover photo the right way is essential. Follow along and see how you can apply the proper methods of making the perfect Facebook cover photo. ## **Aspect Ratio of a Facebook Cover Photo** Facebook recommends you to have a cover photo that can display dimensions of 820 pixels long by 312 pixels tall on desktops and 640 pixels by 360 pixels tall on smartphones. You shouldn’t upload a cover photo that is smaller than 640 pixels wide and 312 pixels tall. This is because the aspects of a cover photo on Facebook vary between desktop and smartphone, **Pro tip:** It won’t be a problem if you have a cover photo that has more width on a desktop and more height on a smartphone. Facebook will prompt you to crop excessive space. Make sure that your cover photo displays where you want Facebook users to pay attention within 820 pixels wide and 360 pixels long. The cover photo won’t be distorted or stretched if ever its dimensions are smaller. The cover photo on a desktop displays more width, while the cover photo on a smartphone displays more height. Play it safe so that your cover photo does not leave behind the relevant details or elements. Here is an example of an ideal cover photo by ## **Facebook Cover Video Setup** Facebook has a fantastic feature that allows business pages to use cover videos instead of something static like a photo. Although, the requirements of a cover video are more rigid or less flexible than that of a cover photo. Facebook only requires a minimum cover video dimension of 820 pixels wide by 320 pixels tall. The duration of your cover video can last from 20 seconds to 90 seconds only. Your video should be saved and published with the same setup and uploaded from your desktop. Afterward, Facebook will prompt you to select a thumbnail from certain points of your cover video which Facebook users would see before the cover video plays. Also, don’t neglect the importance of rendering your cover video with the highest resolution possible. ![](/images/posts/inline/67d88256-biteable-1024x476.png) Facebook page called Biteable helps Facebook users to create an ideal cover video that is eye-catching. Biteable conveniently covers many of Facebook’s cover video requirements for you. It includes cover video dimensions, HD resolution, video file format, and video length. You can visit their website at biteable.com and check out their Facebook Cover Video Guide. ### **Rundown of the video guide:** 1\. Create an account on Biteable’s website. You can use its platform to upload, create and share your video directly to Facebook, but downloading your video and uploading it yourself requires a Premium account. 2\. Upon signing up, select “Create a New Video” and either select a video style or format or click on “Start From Scratch.” There are some cover video templates that Biteable offer for your convenience as well. 3\. Afterward, you will have access to different video-making tools and options: - Add new scenes to your library. - Select a thumbnail. - Add music with Biteable’s free tunes or upload your own. - Color customization. 4\. Publish your video, download it using a Premium account, and upload your cover video on Facebook. Biteable recommends you to create a “short, clear, and simple” video that illustrates the primary purpose of your page and avoids unnecessary distractions. Important texts or messages should be positioned to the center as close as needed to ensure it from getting cropped out by Facebook. The cover video should start and end smoothly and not abruptly, and save it using MP4 or MOV file format which Facebook supports. ## **Ways of Sizing and Designing Facebook Cover Photos** While you are encouraged to push your boundaries in creating a unique and attractive Facebook cover photo. It should still look decent enough and convey what you want Facebook users to remember about your page. ### **Cropping your photo** When it comes to sizing your cover photo, you can either crop a selected photo that you downloaded on the internet. You can also choose from your collection or create an image with Adobe Photoshop and other photo editing software using the recommended resolution. The elements in your cover photo should compliment a horizontal layout since will Facebook display it with more width than height. There are many more details to consider when designing your Facebook cover photo aside from attractiveness. An important consideration, which may be more applicable to business pages, is protecting your right to own your cover photo. To prevent or lessen the probability of users downloading and claiming your photo, you need to include a representation of your brand or digital signature. Notice the images of some established brands on Facebook. You will see their websites incorporated in it as well as their brand logos in place of classical watermarks. ### **That “20% text rule”** There used to be this so-called “20% text rule” wherein Facebook recommended on 20 percent of texts a cover photo. It was removed, but the essence of keeping your message concise is still essential. You should include phrases that encourage Facebook users to engage and invest their time with your page. Your cover photo shouldn’t be confusing or misleading since it is an extension of your page. It should include color schemes that match your business or brand and ultimately compliments with the purpose of your page. Since your profile picture will appear on the left side of your page, your cover photo should maintain balanced, instead of striking, elements. While your audience should see your profile picture, it is equally vital to pull their attention to the cover photo. It is where they would understand what your logo and overall business are about. Also, it will look more aesthetically pleasing. ![](/images/posts/inline/461450ec-canva-1.jpg-1-1024x475.png) ## **How to create Facebook cover photos in Canva** Marketer Sara Nguyen walks us through the steps of creating a beautiful cover art using Canva.com: Here are some screenshots of the steps: ![](/images/posts/inline/10b67de3-canva-2.jpg-1-1024x554.png) **After signing up on Canva, you will be directed to “Create a design” page. Here, you can start by clicking on “Facebook Cover.”** ![](/images/posts/inline/ac5955d0-extra-1024x555.png) **You will be directed to Canva’s editing platform that is specifically designed for creating Facebook cover photos. You will have access to many of its free editing and template features.** ![](/images/posts/inline/9b5e9a13-canva-3-1-1024x554.png) There are many free templates to choose from. Select a template and edit the text as you wish. ![](/images/posts/inline/bedf1e2a-canva-4-1-1024x554.png) **You can also upload an image to your Canva account library and include it in your cover photo. Doing this is as simple as dragging and dropping your picture on the cover photo.** ![](/images/posts/inline/e85782b0-canva-5-1024x548.png) **There are different background designs to choose from and various elements which include grids, frames, shapes, lines, illustrations, icons, and charts. You can also add additional texts and apply different texts layouts and font styles.** ![](/images/posts/inline/fab321e8-download-1024x548.png) Once you’ve accomplished your desired cover photo, you click on the “Download” and click on one of the file formats. The recommended file format for Facebook is “Image: high quality (PNG).” ### **Comply with Facebook policies regarding cover photos:** You can now upload your Canva cover photo on Facebook. Sara highlights that you should include a graphic that represents your business and tagline. Furthermore, she notes that you should comply with Facebook policies regarding cover photos: - “Don’t infringe on other people’s intellectual property. Use images and photos you have rights to use only.” - “Don’t be deceptive or misleading.” - “Don’t encourage other people to upload your cover photo to their personal timelines.” For more information or a better grasp of using Canva’s platform for creating cover photos, check out her Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpBomHY8eJ7ai5712XsiJ4w. ## **Important Facebook Cover Photo Considerations** Now that you have a vast understanding of sizing and designing Facebook cover photo, you shouldn’t neglect some details. Some may appear like minor priorities. One important consideration to optimize your cover photo is to direct it towards the action buttons below. Aside from creating a cover photo that showcases your brand and attracts attention, it should subconsciously prompt Facebook users to explore. By clicking on the action buttons like “Sign Up” or “Shop Now”, they are directly engaging with your product or brand. You can observe Facebook pages belonging in Hospitality industries that implement this strategy. This way, your cover photo would be maximized to its fullest capacity. ### **Keep smartphone users in mind** Another important point is to keep smartphone users in mind. It may be easy to create and set up your Facebook cover photo on a desktop. Don’t forget how the cover photo would display if it is viewed from a smartphone. In the early days of the platform, about 1.3 billion Facebook users accessed the Facebook application on their mobile phones. The sides of the cover photo would be cropped when it is viewed on a smartphone. More importantly, don’t put essential elements too close to the right side of your cover photo since it is more likely to be cropped out. Don’t just upload a cover photo without a brief description on Facebook. Just like other image uploads on Facebook, it is better to add a description that aligns with what you are trying to promote on your page. It may also include a shortened linked to your official website to maximize your cover photo. Besides adding a description, you should also pin a relevant post to the top of your page’s timeline. Description helps in optimizing your cover page by presenting a piece of what you want Facebook users to expect as they scroll through your page. ### **Illustrate the main features of the products** In terms of marketing your products or services, your cover photo should illustrate the main features of the products. Telling people what they can do with it, or how helpful or useful the products are to their daily lives. Other business pages promote their brands by including the scenery of their office or restaurant. This way, people are more likely to explore the whereabouts of the business and visit the place as well. By considering the aspect of “social” in social media, it is essential to surround your cover page with elements that encourage interaction with your page. The cover photo shouldn’t only be a marketing tool or piece of advertisement but should also be designed to interact and make Facebook users click on something on your page. One way to implement social elements on your cover photo is to advertise upcoming events including webinars, conferences or online forums. Some Facebook pages also incorporate the faces of their CEOs or other key personnel as a way of “humanizing” their cover photos. ### **Websites to find FB cover photos** 1. [Set As Wall](https://www.setaswall.com/facebook-cover-photos/) 2. [Pexels](https://www.pexels.com/search/facebook%20cover/) 3. Find out more in my [free stock photo sites roundup](https://alejandrorioja.com/free-stock-photo-sites/)! ### **Other things to consider** The last few things to consider when creating your Facebook cover photo are what to avoid. First and foremost, your cover photo shouldn’t negate the cover photo policies of Facebook. Your page may be taken down just because of a single cover photo mishap. Do not include elements that deface other people or companies and anything else that is ultimately negative and offensive. It is better not to contribute to the “toxic social media” connotation. Another thing to prevent your on Facebook cover photo is including too many words. Your cover photo should be able to speak for itself but branding your business image should require some words as well. Following the 20 percent rule should come in handy. Do not put an array of bright colors just to appear lively. Regardless, incorporating colors that contradict each other may confuse and entirely blow off a potential viewer or consumer. Lastly, do not use a generic or plain cover photo since it wouldn’t present or offer a reason for Facebook users to stay and leave immediately. While clicking in an instant arouses gratification, your cover photo shouldn’t delay gratification if you want to build a community of followers or generate sales. ## **Examples of FB pages with Amazing Cover Photos** There are several Facebook pages which showcase authentic personalities of a Facebook cover photo. By applying all the possible methods of sizing and designing the perfect cover photo. Many Facebook pages grew in other aspects of their page. Such as an increasing number of like, shares and comments on each of their Facebook posts. Here is an example of a cover photo by Learning English Essentials before. As seen above, it has an Ipad with an arrow that points towards the “Sign Up” button. This is referred to as “call to action” since it encourages Facebook users to engage with its free product. It includes the logo of the company in the corner of the Ipad image as a way of securing their rights of the cover photo. ![](/images/posts/inline/4867660f-canva-6-1-1024x456.png) **Here is an example of a cover photo by Learning English Essentials before. As seen above, it has an Ipad with an arrow that points towards the “Sign Up” button.** **This is referred to as “call to action” since it encourages Facebook users to engage with its free product. It also includes the logo of the company in the corner of the Ipad image as a way of securing their rights of the cover photo.** ![](/images/posts/inline/406a81b8-canva-7-1-1024x442.png) **One of the older Facebook pages or versions is this cover photo by The Space In Between with Sara Brooke. It displays the books that she had published. The cover photo also incorporates colors that compliment with the logo and a tagline to top it off. These are essential elements which represent her business.** ![](/images/posts/inline/c6a596b4-easil-1-1024x340.png) Video marketing continues to step up its game from the television screen to social media. You do not even need a big budget to create a compelling video advertisement. Anyone can virtually access a desktop and get right into the job. Easil presents a cover video that offers an easy way of marketing your brand. The video prompts Facebook users and potential clients to believe that its product is easy to use and guarantees quality outputs. ## **Final thoughts** The key to perfecting a Facebook cover page is by being consistent with the trends, designs, and innovations that you see on Facebook. By doing so, you are borrowing a portion of netizens on Facebook. You now have more than 50 percent chance of entirely building your Facebook empire. Want to showcase your FB cover art? Drop a link with your FB page for a chance to get featured on this article 🙂 --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Does Robinhood Make Any Money? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/ Published: 2021-05-01 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Robinhood is currently valued at $12B (2021) according to Forbes. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. [Robinhood](https://share.robinhood.com/marcelr67) is one of my favorite apps these days. I’m personally super interested in personal finance, and the fact that I can participate in the market without having to pay commissions on every trade makes me very happy. (If you think Robinhood is truly “free”, you’d be wrong. Keep reading why) Today, I wanted to explore Robinhood’s monetization strategy as well as their history and future plans. Let’s start with how Robinhood was founded. #### Bottom line \>>> You can sign up for Robinhood here and [get a free stock](https://share.robinhood.com/marcelr67). While Robinhood does not charge for commissions, they make money from Order Flow. ## **History of Robinhood** Robinhood was started by Vlad Tenev and Baiju Bhatt, who first met at Stanford. After the 2008 financial crisis and the 2011 Occupy Wall Street movement, a lot of people had lost faith in the financial system, and sophisticated tools and access to resources were mostly limited to the wealthy. So, Tenev and Bhatt were inspired to create a meaningful way to empower both professionals and first-time investors. They first launched [Robinhood](http://robinhood.com) in 2013, a mobile-first commission-free brokerage app. They initially envisioned the app to be a way to easily invest in stocks and made it accessible to everyone, specially to the millennials. However, it took their team over one year to go over regulations and get approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and become a FINRA member. The one-year waiting and further working on improvements did not disappoint because it also took them just one year to skyrocket to a million-person waitlist on their app. (I remember being position 200k+ on this list and not being able to contain my excitement) They eventually re-launched their app on Apple smartphones and tablets with a sleek interface and enhanced features in 2014, and their Android app in 2015. Robinhood is currently valued at $12B (2021) according to [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/robinhood-ipo/). ## **Services that Robinhood Offers** In its earlier years, you can buy and sell the following securities on Robinhood: - Stocks - Exchange traded funds (ETFs) - Cryptocurrencies - Options - Interest on your uninvested cash All without paying a cent in commissions. ## **How Can Robinhood Afford Commission-Free Trades?** Robinhood has a few monetization strategies: ![](/images/posts/inline/08bd3a3b-robinhood-gold.png) ### **1\. Robinhood Gold** Robinhood earns revenue from premium subscriptions. They offer a “Gold Subscription,” which is a premium *margin account* starting at $10 per month with the following benefits: - **Gold Buying Power.** Robinhood Gold lets you enjoy up to a 2x buying power so you can invest more, and access your funds immediately after selling stocks. (i.e. if you have $10,000 on your cash account, you could borrow another $10,000 from Robinhood) - **Larger Instant Deposits.** Instead of waiting 2-3 days for your bank funds to transfer to your Robinhood account, Robinhood Gold allows you to access them immediately.   Moreover, if you have a premium account holding a minimum amount of $2000, Robinhood lets you buy stocks on Margin. What does it mean? Basically, Robinhood allows you to borrow money to boost the potential earning you can make when a stock goes up. However, if you make a wrong bet and stocks go down, Robinhood might sell that stock on your behalf to cover the borrowed money. ### **2\. Interest from Customer Cash and Stocks, Much Like a Bank Collects Interest on Cash Deposits** Robinhood earns interest from the available cash deposits sitting in your account, similar in a way with how banks collect interests. For instance, if you have a $500 in your Robinhood account and interest rates are 2%, they would make $10 off your money per year. It’s not that much but just imagine multiplying it to the 5 million accounts they currently have now, that’s equivalent to a significant amount of earnings. ### **3\. Rebates from Market Makers** The fintech company also earns revenue from rebates by directing its order flow to market makers, including Two Sigma, Citadel, and Virtu. It gains approximately $0.00026 in rebates per dollar traded, which means for every $100 of stock bought by a customer, Robinhood earns about 2.6 cents from the broker-dealer. According to Tenev, the money they make from this allows the company to cover operating costs, which makes the company able to offer zero-commission trading. ## **Robinhood’s Dark Pool: and How They Sell Your Order Data** It was previously mentioned that Robinhood accepts payment for order flow, but it also seems that the company is selling their customer’s orders and earns far more from it than their competitors. This can lead to a conflict of interest and can be terrible for you as a customer because the people which Robinhood sells your data, such as Two Sigma, Citadel, or Wolverine Securities, have records of violations of securities laws and regulations. The SEC requires all brokerage firms that sell order flows to disclose who they sell it to and reveal how much they pay. However, there have been speculations that there is a material difference with the disclosures being released. Some suggest that there must be something happening behind the scenes at Robinhood that is kept secret from the public. ## **Brand New Checking and Savings from Robinhood** ![](https://i2.wp.com/clark.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/robinhood-checking-and-savings.png?zoom=2&resize=868%2C397&ssl=1) In the early days of the platform, Robinhood announced that they are planning to offer a 3% checking and savings accounts on all account balances. However, they quickly retracted due to legal troubles. Robinhood initially said that their new service is being insured by the Securities Investor Protection Corp. (SIPC), but it might not actually be true. According to SIPC, [Robinhood had not consulted them](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-12-14/sipc-says-it-has-serious-concerns-about-robinhood-s-new-product) in advance of its announcement last December 13 of utilizing checking and savings accounts. SIPC CEO Stephen Harbeck said that this could lead to some regulatory problems for Robinhood. He had already lodged a complaint with the SEC as regards to this matter. The SEC hasn’t given its response to Harbeck’s inquiries, but once they conduct an investigation against Robinhood, they might find that the commission-free trading company might not be properly stewarding the accounts of its users. Robinhood might also face problems with SIPC, which could pull their certifications. Eventually, they might run into unwanted issues with banks and other institutions that they’re working with, such as the Wall Street exchanges. ## **Is Robinhood Making Money?** Robinhood has been investing a ton of money to grow, but the question still remains: is Robinhood profitable? Robinhood has a sound business model, and they seem to be making enough money to attract big firms, like Venture Capital, to invest large sums of money in them. Also, they’ve been very attractive to millennial investors because of their ease of use and ability to trade stocks for free. According to this [site](https://www.businessofapps.com/data/robinhood-statistics/), Robinhood made $673M in 2020. The company has doubled the number of its users in the past year with 5 million brokerage accounts, surpassing its rival company, E-trade. In February this year, it launched its cryptocurrency trading for bitcoin which earned the interest of many more users. In the early days of the platform, year they surpassed $150B in trade volume. It might sound that the company is not earning much from offering a $0 for each trading, but they have utilized well their monetization strategies to grow and expand into the big company they are today. They have so far proven that even in the competitive markets of brokerage services, financial technology upstarts like them has the ability to make it big by bringing new consumers into the financial services market who weren’t exactly aware that they can participate in this market. ## **Conclusion** In my opinion, Robinhood is one of the most innovative and disruptive apps in the financial space. I was super glad to have had the chance to speak with [Robinhood’s CEO Vlad Tenev](https://futuresharks.com/robinhoods-ceo-vlad-tenev-shares-life-experiences-stock-picks-advice/) at UCLA in 2016. I know that I’m personally stoked for [Robinhood’s IPO](https://techcrunch.com/2018/10/10/robinhood-clearing/). With their new move to attack Coinbase and the banking system in general, I’m confident they can secure a lot of deals from big the firms in the market. In a couple of years from now, I can see Robinhood becoming one of the top full-service financial services company. **You can sign up for Robinhood here and [get a free stock](https://share.robinhood.com/marcelr67). ** Learn how other famous apps and companies make money: - [How does Facebook make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [Does Whatsapp make any money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/) - [Instagram’s Revenue Model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) - [Discord’s money making machine](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## A Review of Canva and What Makes it Great! Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/canva-review/ Published: 2021-04-26 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Badges and stickers for websites The basic flow of Canva is user-friendly; you register with either your Google or Facebook account and follow the website’s options to create, which is essentially a template of visuals for you. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Canva is an easy-to-use free graphic design platform that provides a plethora of design models for all. It enables bloggers, companies, and experts to create eye-catching graphics, same with individuals who lack in-depth experience in graphic design. Canva’s website contains at least 1.5 million photographs that you can download for free. Users may also use the online platform to build their projects from scratch. In this article, you will learn how you can create unique designs from scratch using Canva and what makes it one of the most user-friendly design platforms available today.. If you have been following my blog for quite some time, you will know my work style is all about simplifying tasks, and there is nothing better than stumbling upon an app or a platform that helps you improve your workflow.   I recently talked about Canva briefly in my [Facebook cover design guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/) and after having received quite a few questions about it, I decided to plug in all the details about Canva here!  Canva is a user-friendly online graphic design tool that offers heaps of design templates for all. With Canva, bloggers, businesses, and professionals can create eye-catching visuals and help people who do not have in-depth knowledge and training in graphic design. *In fact, all the designs on my blog use Canva!* The online design tool offers a variety of features, including quality images, photographs, layout, and fonts. In this extensive post about [Canva](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/canva/), let’s review its main features and take a look at the pros and cons of using it!  ## Canva Features and Designs I always believe content is only valuable if it reaches [a lot of people](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), and sometimes you need a crisp engaging design to speak for your content.  Towards this, [Canva](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/canva/) has an extensive array of features that its users can utilize to make great designs and graphics, which includes: 1. Cropping images 2. Creating thought and speech bubbles 3. Templates for all kinds of marketing collaterals, from business cards to [social media postings](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) 4. Image and photo frames 5. Badges and stickers for websites The basic flow of Canva is user-friendly; you register with either your Google or Facebook account and follow the website’s options to create, which is essentially a template of visuals for you. Once you log in to your account and explore design templates, Canva offers a considerable amount of articles to help you find your brand and design identity; from finding a color palette to style guides to help you best your brand or project, you have it all covered on a single platform.  Upon selecting your layout and the template, you can then do customization. Everything with Canva is dragging and drop, and the text can be easily edited like text bones in other graphic design tools. Recently, Canva has a design marketplace that allows graphic designers to contribute layouts and earn royalties every time their designs are purchased. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/NhmT-6jTJXsmjbYwailzApPmUZ-H--RG12VwLzeuEcuXXJaOgTrEqqVOdP9osPLtcUOTT4bH7ZRiuvUOujz3ODq0sZICuK1BHZQwWpnh251nVzlVX4WK-AcF83ucumzhNzSGpGzO) ![design categories](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/oDNunBxB9ljqTS7KUC5u_f9j2S0OX6lQarjHGlbOfV-ok6NlSh8CsYPnRRe0Z5T0b00o9ysshmcxL43uVqocc2l9woyXY_hTmvtbhahPcDXgiiXX4nkrEO5XA3_ykZvc40OVsNON) You can select from a massive collection of designs! ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_1V3JI7tkTLPbEgvxTLcJjs6fjGtitiC5XCr8xZHR4lhLpzQI4_W0AokQd-xxMvB7VCvRUkcrTX4rmfvfkhiJXlhhGhPE4zn8nDsat_yELL4Y26kn1woEgq26TV2Z9_JVIy95ESf) The designs are categorized as to how you intend to use Canva. For instance, if you want to [design an Instagram post](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-instagram-captions/), you don’t have to do it from scratch; simply pick a template from a list of options, add text and you are good to roll the design! ### You get a vast array of design templates to a varied list of categories: 1. Posters: They include templates for events, School, advocacies, and much more are available. 2. Logos: Numerous free logo designs for all industries are available as well; from Restaurants, Cafes, Games, Beauty products, Sports, and much more! 3. Presentations: Professional templates of presentation for all sorts of topics are free at Canva, such as presentation templates for your portfolio, business presentation, or perhaps for class. 4. Flyers: These templates are available along with an option to personalize them. These are available to suit your brand and marketing needs. 5. Cards: Some great templates of cards for individuals in all industries are readily available for your personalization. 6. Infographics: With a variety of layouts, fonts, and formats are accessible. 7. Invitations: Event invitations that you can use for print or digital invites are available with customization features as well. 8. Resumes: Those are needed for your next job application are available too! 9. Menus: If you are running a food venture, this should be your go-to template. 10. Magazine and book cover: Canva is well stacked with title covers and magazine collages. A treat for the editing team for sure! 11. Certificates: Awards, appreciation, achievement, whatever the event might be, you just have to pick a ready-made template and get a professional certificate right in front of you. 12. Business Cards: No, you don’t need to hire a professional designer if you are on a budget! Business card templates do the task for you! 13. Bookmarks: Okay, this is probably one of the most interesting categories which we rarely see in other design software or websites. Maybe you can design one, and get it printed for your nerdy friends?  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/4BqHOvdnXIlYfEPH6AVtH5WsPpDkbYlCSJROHjEWBpWUQYO62czRU9I9H7NJsvFh4U1eMtVh90W0jF6HhL_8VEBDtKEi38-g-IJGbSIBbDwUBfbZy16jfO4DpH5ig2k19OisqDST) [](https://flux.la/designing-for-different-sized-gadgets/) And all these categories continue to add on daily with Canva with their continuously growing amounts of designs! The sizes for all the designs are automatically selected for you, but if you wish to edit the automatic sizes, you may do so. If you would like to create your design, you can do so by heading to your home page, and clicking establishes a plan. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/OUd2CQ79tR9gTazZLCeRTz8vfjEYBkHSggEYeU9mrsO4Sxmt-cYix-D1Y_1E7bq1TuEV_d_y40Bxr-hPaUgweUps4JpdZVdS4qyLA2hL-ilVtooDIH5kNN8F-90DO_yap6yyte-m) At the very upper left of your page and you will be led to a page to create your design from scratch: ### At the left, you are given many different tools, such as: 1. Templates -where you can select the layout and outlined visuals. 2. Photos- pretty self-explanatory, here you can select photos to use for your design project. 3. Elements- features stickers, shapes to describe your image, lines, and all sorts of visual accessories to better the message of your image. 4. Text-Here you can edit the font, headings, and body of text in your project. 5. Videos-Canva has clips that last at least 11 seconds long that you can use for your project or presentation. Visuals such as aerial shots, animals, timelapse, and galaxy shots are also available. 6. Backgrounds- there are plenty of themed experiences to choose from as well. ## Design and Templates Database I figured that the best thing with Canva is its vast collection of readily available resources such as designs, icons, shapes, images, symbols, templates, and more. There are at least 1.5 million images in Canva’s database that you can use for free. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/r1BDQ5D1z8ULskhyDGMAT70tgu4cutTminHjsTcrFxozVp1fQeRgZG00mdlA2rPbtaxMOfkirjnkTjPcQ9Jq7RIdrD3dZ78rPwcRotOEohg9N0AKeMLz3Obg3BUZlzTTKEkYLJmn) For business owners, Canva’s library has more than enough to create unique designs daily. There are sufficient and eye-catching templates to keep you satisfied with your design needs. All templates are editable, and you can personalize or customize them through editing all elements on any provided design. A recent feature is the option to create gif images, who would have imagined creating gifs would become a one-click affair? The users, however, can create and upload their photos and images with a few edits and tweaks. For example, if you wish to have a customized social media post instead of using the template as is, you have the option to edit the template. Great, so now you know how to use Canva templates, let’s move to create designs from scratch! Drum rolls please because this is going to be even interesting! ## Personalized designs The online tool also offers users the option to create their designs from scratch. Canva’s customizable templates can provide users the options to change images, colors, and much more to suit their taste. Canva makes it highly accessible for users to make designs. As users log in, they will be brought to the dashboard, which lets them select options to create graphics with specific dimensions or to select one of the thousands of templates available. Upon choosing a template, users are directed to the above dashboard. They can scroll through the list of layouts or can create their designs from scratch. There are thousands of free templates available, but a few advanced templates would require users to pay $1, which is not that pricey. Canva users can include elements (doodles, graphics, illustrations) and texts (with pre-made layouts), varying backgrounds, or their images and photographs. All of these actions can be done with a simple drag and drop function with Canva. ## Free Stock Images ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ps2gV4_rzwkzSpbset_pP4ZjfotTQ1m_Rm7s9sZW8WBvo6Rb_f5iK9TYUozkD_LK_KybLOgngEAfbKn2uioKafd6a95vWimb2yyoB1A4L5RyxC9fzNsKc1scFeaUZsLjvzWNmmCT) Canva’s primary feature is its massive range of free stock images, which you can click via the “Photo” button on the left part of the menu. But if you prefer to work with your pictures, you can go to “Upload” and search for an image or drag the image and drop from your desktop. All your uploaded photos will be saved to your Canva account for safekeeping.  In case you get stuck, you can get help from the purple button in the very bottom right of the page. It is good that Canva does not limit its extra support to premium users. You can also get information from switches and buttons hovering over to see more tips for tools. If you still wish to look for stock images on other sources, [my guide on the best free stock-photo sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/free-stock-photo-sites/) will be quite handy! ## User-friendly Features Canva’s features are best known for its simplicity. They are easy and user-friendly with such a simple user-interface that makes everything in line, manageable, and organized.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/slgsIRmXZ8BeivvCS_XkD2ABh8BFS6umuWcFNc2ULkZo1NECItkbyEfD2w9d0NmT0_BNN7yfOzbKV9nOahzoEqM8RsMh9NtxkLsFjV58BLKEFBPPjEdpiHv3An_ck9KRsMq3tKLJ) For instance, the online tool has a UI that opens in a separate window as your dashboard would have a different UY, which allows you to collaborate with your colleagues. New users would not need any training to begin. But if you decide that you need it, you can learn all of Canva’s design offers and features in their Design School. ## Integration ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/6Lu8601cCLLS-PvW7bBFnfHV99t34Ziw06YnWbhQDuqcyG4GTrNmtNWCHAtL_EjVXXD38zy9JfV1EPrvMqSTOdGtdgE-pZC3_9IIoM8tHHnivQkOhpxuxNEVwl3Uu8Sc8Y6YyEEr) Canva allows users to integrate various third-party websites such as WordPress and social media sites. You can upload photos from your Facebook, Instagram, Dropbox, Giphy, among many other platforms. You can also publish images to several sites other than the third-party websites. Canva lets you avoid the agony of saving, downloading, and then uploading separately to social media sites. This integration feature is perfected to save a lot of time to deal with massive amounts of folders, social accounts, clients, and team members. If you desire to keep it simple with your team, you can easily send the graphic to them through an email once it is done. ## Canva Pro While you can instantly create eye-catching and simple visuals with Canva’s free online tool, there are limits to the features it offers. Canva Pro gives you access to more additional features with unlimited storage for assets and photos. With this plan, you can upload photos and access a million photos starting with a dollar each. Canva Pro is a premium plan that gives access to 400,000 free images, illustrations, and templates.  ## Multi-Purpose design Tool Canva Pro is a multi-purpose design tool that allows users to edit photos, create graphics, animated designs, collaborate and share projects with your team. There are a variety of ways that you can use Canva Pro to grow your brand. For example, you can integrate your social media accounts, share and publish new designs directly from Canva. Or, in the case that you are a marketing consultant and have many clients, Canva allows you to create a separate file or folder to cater to each client to keep your work organized. ## Collaboration You can make the team with Canva Pro to better your group collaboration and communication. Here, you can share designs, templates, and design folders with team members to have their input. ## Customer Support Canva provides a full support page with complete articles, tabs, and a search that makes it convenient for users to get solutions for their queries or problems. Their Customer Support also has contact forms accessible for significant issues like billing; however, it is much more difficult to find phone numbers or email contacts for Canva’s Support team. This can be quite frustrating for many users. ## Pricing While Canva users can create freely and get things done, the paid Canva accounts have many more options that are much more professional which many would find significant. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/px6mPgz0DJSK129MfBPPTut8aNmIuZZDrQTiGGsHlXtsuGAzX3OQbkzBXgA0Zn7ysdzznGpCO1ri8lRuvbNya0kwygi_5dQP-QbATnE3p1ejA7Th-4FZ46d10Fr8SCkQSXL5a1OP) If you decide to go with the Canva for the Work plan, it costs 12.95$ monthly per user. Canva’s enterprise does not have listed pricing but does allow teams with more than 30 members. This option would be a wise decision to make for marketing teams and businesses. ## Brochures for Printing Canva also offers to design brochures, so I decided to try it out. It got me interested since printing brochures would require a much higher resolution file for it to turn out nicely after printing. It’s good to see that once I tested the brochure template, Canva’s system offers to download my file [as a printable PDF.](https://support.canva.com/publish/download/download-right-file-type/)  ### What’s Missing? The only challenge for a lot of users is their inability to get in touch with their customer support. While there are a lot of useful guides, tutorials, articles, and resources readily available, many Canva users may find the lack of contact details troubling. ## Canva Alternatives If you are looking for other tools that can help you beef up your designs you can try: 1. [Snappa](http://www.snappa.com) Snappa is an easy to use alternative design tool to Canva. It focuses on simple and user-friendly tools with 5000 templates while Canva has more advanced features with 8000 templates. 2.  [Stencil](https://getstencil.com/) If you want to create images quickly, Stencil is another Canva alternative with tools featuring user-friendly templates and features. The primary difference between Stencil and Canva is their pricing; Canva is the lower cost service with a $12.95 monthly subscription while Stencil’s subscription is for 15$ per month. ## Wrapping it up: Canva at a glance Canva is a graphic design tool that is very easy to utilize, a reliable tool that has a vast amount of global users. Canva’s drag and drop functionality makes the design process absolutely easy and the ready-made templates are quite eye-catching. Canva’s thousands of layouts and templates are available with high-quality visuals, even their free options are of outstanding quality and would work well for all kinds of design needs. For Canva users with the free version, Canva has a slightly more limited amount of templates readily available for you to choose from. Users who opt for a paid business account have the option to create a 30 member team account with access to Canva’s claimed 300,000 images. These features can also help you to resize your images and designs. Other key features include the acceptance of custom color palettes, fonts, and the functionality to save your templates. Canva’s pricing plans are highly affordable and fair, considering the features and quality of the product that goes along with them. But, you may still get the basic things that you need without spending a single cent. Users that use the Canva tool now and then can always choose to purchase the 1$ images, photographs, or templates without committing to a subscription. Sign up for Canva for free [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/canva/).  Liked this article? Read more to expand on your social media marketing: - [Twitter scripts for growth](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) - [Youtube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) - [How to fix CLS Issues On Search Console](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-cls-issues-on-search-console/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top Tips To Fix CLS Issues On Search Console Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-cls-issues-on-search-console/ Published: 2021-04-22 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: We know that core web vitals and the components to measure them are super important and they play quite a crucial role when Google overhauls its search algorithm. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. We know that core web vitals and the components to measure them are super important and they play quite a crucial role when Google overhauls its search algorithm. But, not everything is perfect; there are times that Google Search Console has issues.  Google is obviously working to improve its user’s experience. That includes the creation of Google Search Console – the holy grail of web admins, SEOs, marketing professionals, and designers.  Google’s new [online tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) and metrics have pushed webmasters to continuously improve driving the developers to be super proactive when it comes to fixing errors. Today, I am talking about one of three metrics of Google Search Console, the CLS. I often receive questions about the drop in website traffic where the users get the error message that looks like this: ![Fix CLS Issues In Search Console](/images/posts/inline/316222d9-image-5-3.png) CLS plays a vital role in the Google search algorithm, and there are times that it has performance-related issues. So sit down, put your google game face on and prepare to learn about CLS, its measurements, and how to fix the issues. ## CLS: The Background Cumulative Layout Shift or CLS is the page speed metric of Core Web Vitals of Google. It has to do with the objects or things loading at various times.  It measures the amount of page content shifts during a page’s loading time or when the viewer is scrolling. It causes the content to bounce around that can affect the [user’s experience](https://yoast.com/what-is-ux/).  Most people have become obsessed with [page speed](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/), and for a good reason. Users do not enjoy the wait. These practices are excellent in ensuring that the pages will load quicker, but there are adverse effects. Parts on the page will be going out of order. It will cause the content to appear on the page randomly.  Many experience such problems when they’re on google, and your sites are no exception. For example, some have gone to websites that start to load, and the primary screen view begins to bounce around. At the same time, some objects will load faster than others. On the other hand, there are times when you’re skimming through the website’s content. All of a sudden, a video, image, or advertisement above the content started to load.  It pushes down the content that you’re reading and disrupts your reading time. If you pressed something by mistake instead of scrolling down, it could be the worst-case scenario. Whether it is the first case or another, you won’t have a pleasant time browsing the web. That’s the reason why Google is letting us fix it: to make it a part of their page experience algorithm. Relevant: Also read how to fix LCP issues on search console [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-fix-lcp-issue-on-search-console/) ## Measuring the CLS Google provides tools to gather data on the CLS in a site. The arsenal of all webmasters is the Google Search Console. If a person is registered in Google Search Console, you’ll receive a notification or alert that person under Core Web Vitals. Specifically in the time where the pages are not loading or get an alert about your CLS.  When this happens, it is better to list down the pages that are failing CLS. Here is the Google Search Console of my website alejandrorioja.com ![](/images/posts/inline/e3fa07a0-image-6-1.png) However, you still have to use different tools to test your pages for CLS. The following instrument that measures a CLS is PageSpeed Insights. You can also get [Lighthouse, a tool that empowers PageSpeed Insights](https://www.magnet4blogging.net/lighthouse-tool/).  ## PageSpeed Insights PageSpeed Insights is all about the “Lab Results”; that’s what they call them. Also, when PSI visits a page, it observes the CLS. Usually, PSI measures the first screen view only. That’s why it might not help in fully debugging the CLS. In PageSpeed Insights, there are results labeled “Field Data” and “Origin Summary.” It shows if a page has enough visitors. ![The data shows the real-world user experience with CLS and the different Web Vital Metrics using CrUX live.](/images/posts/inline/42480cb4-psi-1.png) Source: searchenginejournal.com The data shows the real-world user experience with CLS and the different Web Vital Metrics using CrUX live. People are wondering how they will emulate that? Well, Google presents the chrome extension called Web Vitals. It can help a person to measure CLS while browsing the website. You can try out objects at different speeds while you scroll using other connections. It is to see it can be replicated any CLS problems happening. ## Fixing the CLS Issues Assuming you’ve understood the causes of CLS and how to measure it, here are some ways to resolve these problems. It will need the basics of [technical knowledge](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/), but you have to know the common causes to get you started. ### 3rd-Party JavaScript It is essential to know what usually causes CLS. So, if you’re using third-party JavaScript, it could give things like similar content, share buttons, and so on.  These are the things that can result in CLS as they load. It’s because JavaScripts load in a different order.  Some components will add images and icons to your page after some parts are done loading. You can identify the third-party script on a page using Chrome DevTools, PageSpeed Insights, and WebPage Test. To fix this issue, you have to push the third-party JavaScript visual elements. You can move this under the first screen view. The lower part of the page has more time to finish loading before the user can go there. Thus, it can avoid a possible shift in the layout. Pre-defining the object’s height before the JavaScript runs is another solution for this issue. That will also help you reach the 3rd-party responsible for the JavaScript. It will encourage you to ask them to fix it. ### Deferred or Lazy Loading Website owners have had problems with laziness or defer loading. Lazy loading can cause an evident shift because of the element’s delayed loading time. The answer lies in making sure that the plugins can define a placeholder. Specifying a placeholder can replace it once it loads. ### Asynchronous Fonts and CCS WordPress optimization plugins use asynchronous loading for your CSS once it is done. Yo removes the “render-blocking,” the things that usually prevent a site from loading well. On the other hand, if the site starts to load, some things will flash on the screen.  You most likely need to fix any optimization plugins you’ve used. ### FOIT and FOUT The fancy google fonts can cause FOIT and FOUT on the page. The thing is, people wouldn’t know that it can cause any problem. So, for those that are wondering, what are FOIT and FOUT? FOIT or Flash of Invisible Text is the element that uses a font that a browser needed from a web server. So, you can hide the font until all the font assets have been downloaded. ![CLS in search engine console](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/wvdrILj9MiQQKN3sKi2mU3HcMqlQjP4KnkPeVQ0mMlkMd2pRb4Ke5_e3bytSHr04y7SmJ6RpiEaZx5dq4zw7PEyDPWRqeyI86SSrLZZiUoImAXCyylWvnuHldBjnf8RTVD9B99Wf) Source: datadab.com On the other hand, FOUT or Flash of Unstyled Text happens when a browser displays a fallback font. That will occur in a font stack until the custom font loads. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UeUOz24TtiP8f2axwDg8h2sIAZ8a89yGAfY4Oif1mKlY9Auh3BQjuRQ2OOu4oUWBkaCKdBtSnNLopI-Fv9FrXagbcZFaKmxKLnSjaInQNFKW7ZVuiuS4mNQOsnp_QV_Dxja-BoAe) Source: datadab.com You can use Lighthouse in identifying what is causing CLS. If the fonts are at fault, there are some fixes in dealing with them. You can use the font: display values. A person can minimize the effects by using font: display like swap, auto, block, optional and fallback. ![](/images/posts/inline/a1826a17-0-2abioa1gmgb6sdd6.jpg) Source: datadab.com However, you want to make sure that there will be no layout shifting coming out all of a sudden. You can use the font: display in conjunction with link rel=preload like in the picture shown below. ![](/images/posts/inline/6d58548b-0-8uwmloraccj1p0cb.jpg) Source: datadab.com ### Adding Dimensions on Embeds and Ads Ads are the most significant contributors to layout shifts. [Ad networks and publishers](https://en.ryte.com/wiki/Ad_Network) support dynamic ad sizes. Ad sizes are the one who improves the efficiency and revenue. However, because of the ads pushing down the visible content a user is viewing, it can affect the viewing experience. The result of this has a suboptimal user experience. On the brighter side, some steps can decrease the high CLS because of the ads. 1. It is crucial to reserve a space on your page for an ad slot. It is to estimate the size before you can load the ad tag library. 2. Ensure that the slot size is correct to avoid having shifts when you put advertisements in the content flow. When the page is loaded, the ads will avoid triggering the layout shifts. 3. Take extra care if you put non-sticky ads closer to the top of the viewport. 4. Do not collapse the allocated space when the placeholder didn’t show ads even though the ad slot is available. 5. You can avoid having layout shifts if you reserve an ad slot with a wide duration. 6. You can also use some historical data to know and choose the right size for the ad lot. ## Where this leaves us There’s a lot of difference in living in the digital age compared to the other periods. There are a lot of things we discover and help us in our daily lives. However, it is not perfect. There are trial and error and a lot of problems before being able to use it.  Even to the day when people can finally use it, there will be issues. The good thing is people can fix it on their own. Many helpful tips can be seen on the internet in fixing things out, like the issues in CLS. Loved this post? Check out the articles below! SEO Guide for 2021: A Complete Guide to Rank First on Google (alejandrorioja.com) - [Your best SEO guide for 2021](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [How to increase Alexa ranking quickly?](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/) - [How to optimize your website speed?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) Comment down below the things you learned today! Feel free to share something that we didn’t mention in the article! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Sell Anything to Anyone (7 Creative Sales Techniques) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/ Published: 2021-04-20 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Business, SEO, Social Media Marketing, home ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line In the early stages of any business, the ability to close transactions will decide long-term performance. Understanding main advertising tactics can help you achieve the desired result. It just comes down to you and your attitude when it comes to selling something. You must be prepared to meet a lot of NOs while knowing that you will finally get to a YES. Knowing how to sell is essential for the future of your business, so it’s important you get used to it and get good at it. Knowing how to sell is so important. It can [transform your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). Yet most of us fear sales. I have to be frank though. When I first started selling, I was not good at it. I used to get nervous, sweat and stumble. The thought of having to approach someone in person or picking up the phone to call a stranger was enough to paralyze me. Even sales via email felt weird. Knowing how to sell is crucial for the success of your company, so it’s imperative you get used to it and get good at it. This post draws from my personal experience as a street salesman.  Back in June of 2015, I launched my own brand of [portable chargers](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers) and needed to make sales to get it off the ground. Given that my only POS (point-of-sale) was in-person and that I only had so much time in a day to meander around the streets of Santa Monica and Venice selling the [Flux Charger](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers), I started timing and optimizing my pitch so that I could go from *“hey, how are you?”* to *“sign here please”* as quickly and as often as possible. In this blog post, I will explore the mechanics of **how to sell anything** (on the street and [online](https://mydukaan.io/blog/how-to-sell-products-online/)) plus, at the end, I will share the very same sales template that I give my salespeople to close more sales. These exact techniques helped me [scale my business into a million-dollar store](https://www.inc.com/rahul-varshneya/the-shortest-path-to-1-million-in-ecommerce-busin.html).  *Ready to learn how to sell anything?* ![how to sell anything](/images/posts/inline/f114045d-how-to-sell-anything-1-scaled.jpg) ## **Logistics of selling in person** #### **1\. First, get your sales game right.** The first key to selling anything on the street is neither the product nor the person you are approaching, is all **about you and your mindset**. If you are not fully confident (and calm), you won’t be able to convince anyone to buy your product.  > You must believe in the product if you want others to do so. [Have a positive attitude](https://www.inc.com/young-entrepreneur-council/why-attitude-will-are-all-you-need-to-launch-a-company.html) and think that everyone you approach will be interested in your product. You must be ready to face a lot of NO’s and know that eventually you will get you to a YES.  This leads me to my second point: #### **2\. Be an approach-machine** Someone said no? Ok, move on. There are 5 other people within 10 feet that you can talk to right now. In the online world, this means to continuing to make phone calls and continuing to send cold emails until you get what you want.  > *The key to making sales is to always be selling.*   #### **3\. Be friendly** Friendships sell. People like approachable people with whom they can make a connection. Also, *people tend to associate the buying experience with the quality of the product itself*, so make sure you are making a good impression. The ROI of positive word-of-mouth (which starts with how friendly the seller was) far outweighs what any sales army can do. Who likes a pushy, asshole seller? Not me. A great way is to build the relationships before you need them. ## **Now on to the sales pitch** #### 0\. Convey value People don’t care about features. People don’t care about how much it costs. (really) They care about how much value they will get from your product. Will it save them time, make them more money, make them look healthier, give them status? Your sales pitch should convey value to your costumers. Think hard about this one because the remaining tips won’t work unless you are selling something valuable. #### **1\. Rehearse** You must know the product or service from the inside-out. If you don’t, read as much as you can about it.  Being knowledgeable about the product will give you confidence and will make your street selling or online pitching experience successful. When you know what you are talking about, you will find yourself speaking calmly, with authority and determination.  However, > never give a flat-out scripted, robotic pitch -this kills any sale. A good sales pitch should feel more like a dialogue between you and the buyer. #### **2\. Tailor the sales tone based on your audience** The [streets of Venice](https://www.everipedia.com/Venice,_Los_Angeles/) exposed me to a varied crowd of people from tattooed skaters to high-school couples to old men working out at Muscle beach. Every single customer has different needs but most importantly communicates in a slightly different way. To the geeks, you should talk specs. To the single mom, you should talk about ease of use. The more comfortable someone feels, the more likely it is that they will purchase your product. Note: if you are trying to reach a Fortune 500 CEO, be succinct. Remember that you don’t always need to reach the CEO. Sometimes a Sales Director is all you need. #### **3\. Preempt** ***most but not all*** **of their questions** Once you have tried to sell your product to a handful number of people, you will realize that most of them will ask you the same questions again and again. ***“How is your product better than XYZ?”*** should be preempted from the start since most people have probably already seen a competing product and have a general idea of its features. The main concern of anyone that is being sold on the street is being scammed, so **they want to make sure they are getting a good deal** (the definition of a good deal meaning a good value, i.e. your buyers feel like they have saved money by purchasing a better product or their lives are improved because of your product). To ensure that your prospect feels confident about the purchase, your pitch should answer all their questions so they have no excuse but to buy your product. However, *a customer also wants to feel in charge of the logical decision process* so you should leave some room for them to ask questions at any point during the sale (but especially at the end). The key here is to walk the prospect through a series of logical assertions (based on facts) to help them be sure that they are making the right decision when giving you their money. Selling a great product makes this so much easier, because the product specs sell themselves. #### **4\. Establish authority** Why should someone trust you? What have you done that demonstrates that you know what you are talking about? People like trusting people, and they will buy from them over and over again (provided they maintain their promises). For example, the way I am able to [sell tens of thousands of dollars in digital marketing services](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/) is because I am able to convey to my prospective clients that I know what I am talking about. I’ve created a [million dollar ecommerce store](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/), been [published in many high profile sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/press) and so on. When you try to sell something, establish yourself as the authority in that industry and customers will flock to you. Nowadays with social media and blogs, you can easily become an authority in your field by publishing high-quality, useful and thought-provoking content. Facebook and Linkedin are great platforms for this. You should also think about getting your own blog if you haven’t yet. #### **5\. Let them do the talking, it is easier that way** The secret of world-class salesman is how little they actually talk. Tyler Bosmeni, CEO of [Clever](https://clever.com/), [mentioned during his YCombinator Startup lecture](http://startupclass.samaltman.com/courses/lec19/) that the top **1% of sellers ask a lot of questions and let the prospect do about 70% of the talking**. When I was selling down Third Street Promenade, I usually let the customer take the lead on the sale by asking simple questions such as *“do you usually spend your weekends here?”.* It is incredible and even counterintuitive, but the more the customer talked, the higher my closing rate. #### **6\. ABC: Always. Be. Closing.** **As soon as you begin the sale, you should be thinking about closing**. Not only will this keep you focused on the target (making the sale) but will also improve your closing rate.  [A lot of people that I coached on sales are afraid of asking for the money](https://alejandrorioja.com/hire-me-to-speak/). This is the single most important point of the sale, since it is *when the sale actually happens.* Up until the close, all you have done is informed the prospect; however, it is not until you ask for the payment that your efforts become worthwhile. Note: when you throw a number, try to make it higher than you intend to charge to [establish a price anchor.](https://futuresharks.com/how-to-negotiate/) #### **7\. If you can’t close, know when to leave** I could generally gauge whether a prospect was going to buy or not within 20-30 seconds of our interaction. If you are spending too much time talking to one customer, your opportunity costs rises as you are not selling to someone else. In my case, the conversion rate declined sharply after 5 minutes of talking. So, after the 5-min mark I would try to close or move on. Same thing happens with email marketing, or when [someone hits me up on Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/), if they ask too many questions they will probably not buy.  ## **7 sales techniques to become the best salesman in your company** #### 1\. Offer a free trial **Let your prospect feel, touch, use the product. (for online marketing, let them do a free consultation, free 7-day trial, easy returns, etc)** The more time that they have invested in familiarizing with your product the harder it will be for them to walk away, especially if they have the product in their hands. Also, a free trial gives them confidence that what you are selling is functional and not a second-hand product you picked up on the street. For my [portable chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/), I let the prospect charge his or her phone while we were chatting. For SaaS products, the easiest way to grow your mailing list and customer base is to have a super simple trial sign up.  #### 2\. Ask them to do YOU a favor According to the [Benjamin Franklin Effect](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_Franklin_effect), if someone does a favor for you, they are more likely to do another because that will be consistent with what they think of you. (The next favor being buying from you, of course). Example: Ask the customer to hold the product for you while you search in your backpack. This seemingly small favor has major psychological implications that loop back to the point about being friendly and establishing a trusting relationship. #### **3\. Selling is all about discounts and timed offers** Remember the last-time you bought something on the street. Did you try to negotiate? Most likely you did. Bargaining is intrinsic to the street selling environment. You can take this to your advantage by quickly discounting the price (margins permitting) of the product and convincing the prospect to make the purchase. I like to do this and up-sale products by bundling them as a combo (i.e. 2×1, second one 50% off, etc). For online stores, you can add a discount timer at the top or do a Holiday sales promo (or Single’s Day).  #### 4\. Wow them with a feature they were not expecting A prospect that is strolling the streets killing time on a Sunday afternoon is yearning for entertainment. Your job as a salesman is to not only inform but also do so in a way that is engaging and doesn’t feel like a sale. The worst part of a sale pitch is when there are no inflections in tone or rapid change of emotions (which should usually lean towards positive emotions, unless you are asking for donations to a charity). A great way to keep the conversation fun and engaging is to tell a story or show a feature in the product from an angle that the prospect wasn’t expecting. If you can crack a subtle joke, even better. #### **5\. Social Proof (this one is HUGE)** My favorite type of people to sell is a group of 3-4 people. They are usually more friendly and open about having a conversation. It is a bit harder to keep them interested but if you do you can potentially make 4 sales simultaneously. This is where things like charisma and a slightly higher voice volume work very well. When the time to close the sale comes, make sure you ask the second most interested person in the group to buy. If you manage to convince this person, the group will easily follow. The most eager person was already sold, you convinced the 3rd most eager person to buy because they were on the fence of buying; and the skeptic ends up buying because all their 3 other friends did. In internet marketing, you can work with influencers, have bloggers review your product and also set up an affiliate marketing campaign. #### 6\. Make the customer feel uncomfortable (yes, uncomfortable). When asking for a buying decision, ask and remain silent to see what they say. Most people are not strong enough to say no and will end up buying. Remember, the first one to talk, loses.  #### 7\. Grow your network before you need it If you have friends at Salesforce, Facebook, or Tesla you can call up on to make a tactful introduction to the decision maker, you will become a very powerful salesman. A great way to build these connections is to attend Meetups, industry-specific events, conferences and just befriending people through your own hobbies. Remember that you should always aim to keep an amicable relationship with people, whereby you provide as much value as you can before asking for the sale. Bonus: Sign up to get my free Ebook “How to Sell Anything to Anyone (7 Creative Sales Techniques)” ## **Sales Script** Underneath you will find a proven sales script to make more sales, share to unlock! Now as promised, here is [the exact script](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1A0uch2-_hOB3KrnAD_VoZxW7N7Yt62en5QI1_qFs4bQ/edit?usp=sharing) that me and my salesmen use (albeit not verbatim) when selling the Flux Charger. The documents contains a classic pitch, answers to most commons objections when buying a portable charger and a handful of preempted questions. I like to use this document as an reference since it is a real-world example in action of the techniques I talked about. This script and procedure can be adapted to sell pretty much anything.  ## Sales books to read I really enjoy reading. Here are my top 3 sales books recommendations: - [Never Split the Difference](https://www.audible.com/pd/Never-Split-the-Difference-Audiobook/B01CF5O89G?source_code=GPAGBSH0508140001&ipRedirectOverride=true&gclid=CjwKCAiA3uDwBRBFEiwA1VsajBgh6vF76vS1f4BuHb1x3F88qxcPgENc_ejPm1hRmMx1Zpij7T0t6BoC3FoQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds) - [The Psychology of Selling](https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Selling-Increase-Thought-Possible/dp/0785288066) - [The Greatest Salesman in the World](https://www.amazon.com/Greatest-Salesman-World-Og-Mandino/dp/055327757X) ## **Conclusion** In the early days of any business, the ability to close sales can determine success in the long run. Whether it is selling a physical product or convincing someone to sign up as a user on your platform, [understanding key sales techniques](https://www.uplead.com/sales-strategy/) can help you generate your desired outcome. Like any skill, sales can be learned and mastered rather quickly. To be really good at selling, you must love it and you have to practice it every day. I consider myself a salesman at heart and love selling. In the past 3 years, I have coached and trained dozens of sellers with the aforementioned simple yet powerful tactics and helped them make more sales in less time. Nevertheless, techniques on paper are worth nothing. The only way to get better is getting out there and trying things out. You won’t understand how fulfilling sales can be until you close your first sale. Time to put those tactics into action.  Also, shameless plug: If you would like to purchase the Flux Charger you can do so directly at [www.fluxchargers.com](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/). If you have any questions, please post them on the comments! Tag a friend that sucks at selling. If you liked this post, you will also enjoy learning [how I took Flux Chargers from $0 into a $100,000/month business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/) and also how I determined if the [power bank industry was a profitable niche](http://huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_us_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7). --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top 8 WordPress Competitors: Which One To Choose? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-wordpress-competitors/ Published: 2021-04-13 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Whenever somebody intends to create or transport a website, the platform that usually first comes up to mind is WordPress. And don’t get me wrong, WordPress is an amazing platform full of possibilities, flexibility, and scalability. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* Whenever somebody intends to create or transport a website, the platform that usually first comes up to mind is WordPress.  And don’t get me wrong, WordPress is an amazing platform full of possibilities, flexibility, and scalability.  Additionally, the [thousands of plugins](https://alejandrorioja.com/15-best-wordpress-plugins-for-2020/) can add countless functionalities to the website.  It is with good reason that WordPress is one of the most used platforms for websites.  However, WordPress being an open-source platform is truly not for everybody; it has some disadvantages.  There are many other good platforms out there, and according to your needs and the type of website you need for your business some of them might be a better option for you.  In this post, I will first mention who should stick to WordPress, and then dig into the other platforms on the market.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0rD7wiAxAs ## WordPress: who should choose it? Some businesses have a need for a high level of customization and flexibility when it comes to both functionalities and design for their website.  Those businesses need an open-source platform like WordPress so they have enough space to get creative with their website characteristics.  It does have a very user-friendly CMS and people without deep technical knowledge can get their way around WordPress, but for some things and functionalities, it is good that you have a web developer on your team or at least the budget to seek help.  This is especially applicable to advanced customizations and added functionalities that are not in the original version.  Additionally, there might be problems with WordPress updates that can make a mess out of your website. So web developers, in this case, are a must. Keep in mind that WordPress is an open-source platform so the security is questionable. There are many plugins that can make your security very better, but if you are preferring security over functionalities, choose another platform.  If you have a vision for your website in the future that includes scalability where the number of users that visit the website gets extremely high, WordPress is a good choice for you.  Some major websites use it as their platform like for example New Yorker, CNN, Fortune, and many more that have significant numbers of visitors each day.  There is also a built-in role management system which means that companies that need many users to work from the same platform will find WordPress satisfying.  If you are just starting out and need a website that can be online as soon as possible with basic tools, maybe WordPress should not be your first choice since there are [other platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/joomla-vs-wordpress-comparison/) that offer those types of functionalities.  Read: [Five features that make WordPress great](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) ## 1\. Wix ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vZEYqAc2FlY7nwZkLcSZXt2thZatlpn0F0A3Uc9V0XStZPju3NvggmqJmz6HFOB-QMJEXLUULxP9Z-irVFkXumbpWuad6sWjyre0oq3x7SrepLADkEpqAO9tYdKoDKGFotFzClYk) WordPress has tons of functionalities and options for customizing, but with that comes a lot of work, effort, and time.  If you’re looking for something that will allow you to create a website by yourself without advanced technical knowledge, one option is [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/).  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is a hosted website builder that has a free version with a bit of limited options that are totally capable of creating personal and professional websites that look very good.  There are templates that you can choose from and further edit using a very easy drag and drop builder. Additionally, Wix also has an eCommerce option with the paid plans that is very good.  ### Pros 1. Vast template collection 2. Good speed of the sites 3. Easy interface (drag and drop) 4. Help and support available  5. Wix App Market  ### Cons 1. You can’t change the template you chose 2. The site is not transferable 3. Tracking and analytics only come with paid plans 4. Free plan adds Wix branding 5. The premium plans only apply for one site Relevant: Read a detailed comparison of Wix vs. WordPress [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-wordpress/)  ## 2\. BigCommerce  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VtZKXlap3wU7rrp3UpZj5wjiQheS67E5nw8yAH1M7kF3Nnsw1cUxjb9XRUOSVTGm9xGGlu9f3DiK0uQtTJoeWIPnIji4Mb8FSxgT2kiQ0nRggnNHnjF3JL25j0Dm-UY6I4hkZYdi) [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) is an alternative to the WordPress eCommerce platform. [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) is a fully hosted eCommerce builder that works on the drag and drop principle as well.  There are many templates which you can choose as your base, and then modify them towards your wishes. [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) supports a lot of payment gateways both traditional and non-traditional. You won’t be charged a fee for the sale transactions too.  You can sell unlimited products, and you can track the performance of your store. They also have [built-in tools for SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/).  Additionally,  you can integrate [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) with a WordPress site if your main website is on WordPress. ### Pros 1. Adding product variants is possible and easy 2. No limit on product variants 3. Scalable for small and big stores 4. No transaction fees for you 5. Integrated SEO features ### Cons 1. Annual sales threshold (if you’re above it you’re automatically updated to a higher plan) 2. Not very flexible creation of regular content (blogs, posts, etc) 3. No multilingual feature (except if added by coding) Read: [BigCommerce Review 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-review/) ## 3\. Weebly  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QW_zaraTrMQ5Rfc0eQn3iPDESGQqE_oVnfGplAfLmQwel01E2zox0Bta8hWqy7F-X6OWEEzKMGWOKekPUT8noHG8M6PVnjj_qQdI9WbzAaAGE0BjYcmWq0vvmBLAdEjwmbn4m_W1) If you are looking for an extra simple website builder then look no further than Weebly. It’s definitely one of the easiest and most intuitive builders.  More than 40 million sites around the world are based on Weebly and with a reason. If you are a start-up or you need a personal website while you’re just beginning Weebly is a great choice because, besides the fact that it’s extremely easy to use, it has a free plan that is very functional.  For the free plan, there is only a small Weebly banner in the footer. Not a very big price to pay to enjoy a free website builder. [Domains](https://alejandrorioja.com/effective-ways-to-boost-your-websites-domain-authority/) can be used in the paid plans but at very affordable prices.  When it comes to flexibility, the blog feature is a top-notch one allowing you to create unique and functional blogs per your style.  ### Pro  1. Very affordable 2. Easily customizable 3. Easy to use 4. Integrates with other apps/add ons 5. Many templates to choose from 6. SEO settings that are rich 7. You can move away from Weebly ### Cons 1. Very limited free option 2. Very limited photo editing 3. Weebly in the name of the free domains (www.example.weebly.com) 4. Customer support only in paid plans ## 4\. Shopify  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7326bHwlmNw3hZXijZu2sr7pAsdjxM8WPh1__bLcOmJLBd7i6BuF9cOiPu8NYFk5dgwF1Uamj3E1whrtocqKlQiDQnob581OJL0RtYtAMW0QjjVWd2nm7nWZxT_HxUm6X_znSkUF) Another great platform for building an online store is [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/). It’s a very easy platform for using and it provides all the tools necessary for creating a functional and stylish online shop. The platform has a built-in guided setup that gives you information on how to set up your eCommerce store.  Like any other good platform, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) also has a variety of pre-made templates, apps, and possibilities for integration.  If your goal is to easily create a good online store without any hassles, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) should be your number none choice. ### Pros 1. It’s very simple to use 2. Big choice of storefront themes 3. Many apps and plugins 4. Around the clock support ### Cons  1. Not a big possibility for extra functionalities or customization 2. Only a few theme templates are free, for others, you have to pay 3. Fees for using the apps/plugins 4. Some support relies on forum questions, etc, not direct customer support Read: [Shopify Vs. Wix comparison](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/) ## 5\. Joomla  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/7o-kH3FvhsoRIywAwVlBUjUmigMLMkWuloSZ3PafdHJaaHq_CuWpFXhrLSEueB8Ee_SFBZKjym9WQDfq94d3l0Rd3pzAoydWae32ALquQuyY94KkFdBgFA5dPiO1sLFuR1Zxm5Dn) Joomla is another open-source platform that has been around for almost as long as WordPress but WordPress managed to pull much ahead over the following years.  Joomla provides more robust tools for managing the users and the communities and has better built-in multilingual support without the need of plugins. It has almost all of the functionalities as WordPress and then some more. Instead of plugins, it has templates and extensions.  All in all, it’s a very good platform if you’re looking for an open-source builder that will give you the same functionalities as WordPress, but maybe for a cheaper price.  ### Pros  1. Built-in features for user and community management 2. Better multilingual support  3. Great for beginners 4. Good SEO ### Cons  1. Less user-friendly interface 2. More complex than WordPress 3. Limited free extensions  Raead detailed compairson of Joomla Vs. WordPress [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/joomla-vs-wordpress-comparison/) ## 6\. Drupal  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/HYarSXeF8WLSQ9qtLOfsyXfDp63qpuekRazZt8DfF5my6uwuw9nh1iojPwfsfTxT8p0VJOhe3qxX2MFl4M_2hlPut9j-c8J3DBxnNYTpWrE-i76bQPyhuxR6_hMwSX_CkRjxEaYf) Drupal is yet another quite well-known open-course CMS. It’s a competitor of WordPress and Joomla and has a strong community of users and developers.  Just like WordPress has plugins and themes, Drupal has modules and themes on the same principle and it can run on any web host that supports WordPress.  Drupal has actually been around for longer than WordPress and Joomla, since 2000. Usually, bigger and more powerful institutions use Drupal because of its power and flexibility.  That means that it is not very beginner-friendly and requires developers’ support. Not everybody can get around the way it works.  ### Pros  1. The most flexible option 2. Perfect for big sites with large quantities of data 3. Supported by a large community 4. Very strong security ### Cons  1. Extremely complex 2. Requires time and effort 3. Possible performance issues ## 7\. Squarespace ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/UuNMY02gSC2rDAtGt10wrOz-_8IXUAMDk4X3Id8YmLE3MZKhJkVAe-k1GOeMOv_MW_TWzAQHamsTVbmCmn5x1en-N_jNw6ebp-giPBSFZGlebJgNmNuRY5ciA9ziMe0zMxCS6l8L) Another site builder that can be used as an alternative to WordPress is Squarespace. It’s another very easy-to-use solution that even beginners can perfect with some practice.  Squarespace offers as well pre-ready templates that you can go and modify to fit your needs.  But, there is nothing additional to install. All the features that are possible to use are provided by Squarespace itself.  In this context, [Squarespace can be quite limiting](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-vs-squarespace/) to some people, especially since it is a paid builder.  The drag and drop make it very easy to use, and additionally, there is an eCommerce option to add.  ### Pros  1. Templates to choose from 2. Backend design options 3. All-in-one platform 4. Speed, security  5. Data export ### Cons  1. A bit expensive compared to other web builders 2. Missing advanced marketing tools 3. No third-party apps and extensions Read: [Wix Vs. Squarespace comparison](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) ## 8\. Medium  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_w7qPjvufEarnumG80C7JiXG2hxkPRoqEuQEKoJlP1Nt0o_LIU1Hpy3wMCj5GteXcNBN753MMgwlUQqfhguaPqhdP4JC813DiruGfWdHBqXlNORlo56vtWJw_jo9PVCWrWZ9Qok5) Medium is quite different from WordPress by many criteria. It is mostly a publishing platform without a full content management system.  The main focus of Medium is blogging and the communities.  Basically, if you just need a platform to [create an awesome blog](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-start-a-blog/) that is in an uncluttered writing area- this is what you’re looking for. It can create a unique design that can be compatible with all device sizes. And it’s extremely easy to use, there are no themes or plugins. The downside is that Medium for some reason doesn’t allow custom domain names anymore, so you would have to publish under the platform’s domain.  The plus side is that Medium has a built-in audience so if you’re trying to introduce your content to as many people as possible, you should think about Medium.  ### Pros  1. No technical skills required at all to start 2. Built-in audience ### Cons  1. No hosting your own version 2. No control over the platform ## To sum it up WordPress is an amazing tool as we all know, and even with its disadvantages it still is on the top on the list among website builders.  But as you can see, there are many, many other platforms that according to your needs and business goals might work out better for you right now.  A very important thing to take into consideration when making your decision is the future of your business and website.  If you are only choosing for right now, you might make a big mistake when sometime in the future your business will grow or you will need additional functionalities and you will be limited by the platform you chose.  I have seen these examples, and trust me, it’s easier to take into consideration the future expansion of your business when choosing, then starting over again a year later because you are stuck with a platform that’s not good enough for your needs anymore.  Of course, not all things can be predicted, but a general idea of the future path of your business should be defined.  Which platform do you use for your website? Which one do you think is the best option? Share in the comments.  For your next read, I recommend one of the following posts: - [How to create a good WordPress logo](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/)? - [Best eCommerce platforms for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) - [How Netflix effectively uses analytics?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-uses-analytics-tools/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Discord Make Money? Is it Profitable? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/ Published: 2021-04-06 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: The company was able to grab fundings from big-time market players, such are Greylock Partners and Benchmark capital who were known to have invested more than $70 million to date. ## Table of contents Discord, a communication app and social platform, lets you communicate with your teammates while playing video games online. In a nutshell, it’s like the Skype or Slack alternative of gaming chat. It is blowing up (although perhaps for the [wrong reasons](https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/deputies-warn-parents-about-discord-app-potential-dangers)). In this article, I wanted to tackle Discord’s monetization strategies as well as its history and future revenue plans. Let’s start first by knowing what’s this popular app in the online gaming world is all about. ## **What is Discord?** [Discord](https://discordapp.com/) is a free text, voice and video communication platform designed by gamers for gamers. This free software primarily focuses on providing high-quality, and lag-free voice chat to communicate and coordinate with other players around the world. The app is pretty much a delight to all gamers because the reliable voice chat feature is completely free and it has vast limits when it comes to the number of members in a group chat. Discord lets you participate in themed servers which can be generated by anyone logged in on the application. As long as you are given the invite or participation link, you can access to join the same servers. The admin of the group can host either text, voice or video channels which are used by the members to communicate on a particular topic about the game. While Discord’s target audience encompasses gamers generally, the free chat app is also enjoyed by other interest groups varying from music, entrepreneurship, art, etc. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjNxArUFI4Q A video by Digital Zealot ## **History of Discord** Discord has made a long journey from its humble beginnings as a voice over internet protocol (VoIP) side-project to becoming the world’s largest chat platform among gamers today. The social gaming platform was founded by Jason Citron, who is also known as the co-creator of OpenFeint, a social network for gamers using iPhones. He eventually sold the OpenFeint technology to the giant Japanese social networking service, GREE, in 2011 for US$104 million, which the CEO used to build his studio, Hammer & Chisel. In the early days of the platform, Citron and his staff released the Multiple Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game “Fates Forever,” which was initially created to battle the success of League of Legends and similar games. It was well-reviewed, but it didn’t do well in revenues. Stanislav Vishnevskiy, a game developer in Hammer and Chisel, noticed that most gamers are having difficulties working out gameplay concepts, particularly pointing to problems with the VoIP options available at that time. Some VoIP options required players to provide various IP addresses, while services like Skype or TeamSpeak were resource-heavy and had security issues. This dilemma eventually led to the idea of developing a friendlier chat program that would cater to gamers. The initial sideline project eventually became the main focus of the entire company to make Discord into fruition. Since Fates Forever suffered a commercial failure, Citron has to take it off the market and focus on developing the chat program. Discord was born hereon with Citron taking the CEO and Vishnevskiy as the CTO. The company was able to grab fundings from big-time market players, such are Greylock Partners and Benchmark capital who were known to have invested more than $70 million to date. In May 2015, Discord was officially released to the public. According to Citron, Discord was created out of his passion for video games. Things might have turned a different direction when he suffered mishaps during the early years of his career, but he didn’t quit. Citron said that Discord is here to stay for the long haul and will explore more possibilities in providing excellent service to keep their company strong. In May 2018, Discord celebrated its 3 years in the playpen with an impressive number of 130 million users. ![](/images/posts/inline/cff35224-discord-chat.png) ## **Discord App Features** Discord utilizes a freemium business model wherein basic services are provided for free, while additional charges are imposed for premium features. Here’s a list of the main features from Discord you can enjoy for free: - 100% free communication - IP & DDoS Protection - Convenience for PC or mobile use - Friends List - Minimal CPU usage - Low latency - Smart push notifications - Permissions - Custom hot keys - In-game overlay - Multiple channels - Modern text chat - Direct messaging Aside from the one mentioned above, many other features were added or updated to the app through the years, some of which are the following: - **Discord StreamKit:** In April 2016, Discord released a new page on their website that is geared towards streamers. The page includes all the possible tools and integrations you can add to your Discord server that is associated with streaming, such as Twitch, YouTube, Nightbot, and Muxy. Today, lots of apps have been added including Patreon, GameWisp, OBS, and a lot more. - **Discord Rich Presence**: In November 2017, Discord launched this feature which allows easier integration of games and Discord users. The feature will make it easier for players to jump into games with friends, watch and spectate during matches, and send party invites to co-gamers. Personally, I feel like the software is more of a high-level messaging application for games enthusiasts, which is even better compared to other similar apps like Skype or TeamSpeak. ## **How Does Discord Make Money?** Aside from being a freeware VoIP application, the company is firm with their stand on not using advertisements on the chat platform ([similar to Whatsapp](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/)). Discord is also strongly against selling its users’ data because this would mean breaching the relationship between the two parties involved ([sigh, Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/)). With that said, you’re probably wondering how this company stays afloat. To answer that question, here’s how Discord makes use of its monetization strategies: 1. **Optional Cosmetic Items **Similar to the famous game League of Legends, Discord is also a free application although there are features that are available for purchase, such as sound packs, sticker packs, skins, and custom emojis. These items are optional for users to buy and it doesn’t make a huge advantage on you as a player if you have chosen to purchase these items.   2. **Discord Merchandise Store **Discord offers a variety of merchandise, including branded hoodies, hats, t-shirts and sweatshirts. The company gains a little revenue from these items which is a delight for its devoted fans. The company earns from its marketing strategy and its effective way of promoting their product. They don’t charge any amount for using their app, but in return, they encourage their users to support the app by buying their merchandise and cosmetic items to support the company’s operating expenses. 3. **Discord Nitro ** Discord offers a paid option for the app called the Discord Nitro. Discord launched its subscription plan for interested users worth $4.99/month, or $49.99/year. Nitro enables subscribed users to enjoy extra perks, which includes the following: - Your own Discord tag - Animated avatars - Custom emojis - High-quality screen share. Discord Nitro allows you to enjoy higher resolution (720p or 1080p) screen share in your chat. - Boosted upload limit. With Nitro, you can share images and files up to 50MB (8 MB for regular users). - Special Nitro Badge ![](/images/posts/inline/3b751bac-discord-nitro-1024x576.jpg) In October 2018, Discord announced that Nitro will include a growing library of new games that will be enjoyed as added perks by those subscribed to the plan. This added perks would also mean an increase in the Discord Nitro subscription service price from $4.99/month to $9.99/month.   However, loyal fans of Discord who wish to support the platform can still avail the $4.99/month Discord Nitro Classic plan, but without access to curated games. Aside from getting these features that regular users won’t have, you’re also contributing to the development of the software which Discord highly encourages as a form of support to the growing company. ### **Discord Receives Support from VCs** Discord announced on December 2018 that the gaming chat startup has secured a $150 million deal in funding at a staggering **$2.05 billion valuation**. The round was reported to be led by Greenoaks Capital with participation from Tencent, Firstmark, IVP, Index Ventures, and Technology Opportunity Partners. Most of the funding from various big companies is used by Discord toward international growth and improving Nitro. A small portion goes towards rewarding its pioneer employees. ## **Discord’s Future Revenue Strategies** Discord has no plans on changing its primary feature, which is the free voice communication service. However, Discord still has to adopt new ways on how they’ll be able to earn money if they want to survive in the market for the long term. Nitro is a good monetization strategy, but it has many more potentials as a revenue source in the future. These include the following:    ### **1) GameBridge** GameBridge offers the ease of integrating the app in the game. The feature was made available for free in the first month of its release but was soon rolled back.  However, the company assured that it might be back in the future in a different form. The GameBridge offers the following perks to users: •    Auto-match players in voice channels •    Auto-create permanent or temporary servers for in-game-worlds/guilds •    Screenshots, GIFs, and videos sharing •    Partner-like benefits, where users can build up a community •    Easy control of audio settings •    Positional Audio (Voices in a virtual space to augment distribution of players) ### **2) Game Revenue Sharing** Discord can seal a partnership deal with game companies in the future. They can earn extra revenue through successful referrals, which means they can receive an amount when users end up purchasing a game or a feature.   Recently, Discord entered into a partnership with Spotify. Users of the app can connect their Spotify accounts on their Discord account. They’ll be able to share what music they listen into their Discord profiles or simultaneously listen to music within a server. Partnerships like this would help the company keep the gamers on their platform. Perhaps, the company can also expand on other platforms involving arts or the corporate world. ### **3) Discord is Launching a Game Store** In August 2018, the gaming chat app announced that they are building out a game store. The company initially launched a beta of the game store to 50, 000 users from Canada. Later in October, they made it available for everyone.  Now, the chat platform is directly selling games and has added perks of exclusivity for its Discord Nitro subscription users. Discord, taking more steps forward, has also launched exclusive services on its platform which they called – “First on Discord” games. The company began offering indie games that are only available on Discord for the first 3 months or so after their respective launches.   ![](/images/posts/inline/76f8791f-game-store-discord-1024x545.jpg) The gaming chat startup is expected to grow even further in the coming years with its new monetization strategies. So far, it’s currently doing very well, and I believe that they can develop more innovative ways to expand more their service on other platforms. ## **Safety Concerns with Discord** As Discord continues to grow with millions of new users every week, safety issues regarding the use of the app are also a primary concern.    The ease and functionality of Discord also come with dangers for younger users.  In many Discord gaming servers, profanity and abusive language are a standard part of the conversations. There have been issues in the past about the possibility of players discussing “mature” content – sex, violence, and illegal drugs, on the social gaming platform. Parents, in particular, are also alarmed after an incident in Mississippi of a 14-year old boy who disappeared for four days. Police officials confirmed that they found the young boy with someone he met on the Discord app. Other dangers concerning the app were also pointed out by netizens, including male and white supremacist groups who can chat on the app anonymously. Back in 2017, Discord was on a hot seat when members of the alt-right who marched in Charlottesville, Virginia for the Unite the Right rally claimed that they used the popular chat platform for gamers to discuss the bulk of their logistic planning and to encourage violence and racism. The incident was made possible because Discord runs on free servers which can be private or public. Also, a Discord group which can be home to hundreds to thousands of people is only discoverable to people given an invite. The relative privacy and the ease of use of the app, has made Discord an ideal place not only for gamers but also to gather people with a shared interest over any possible category, including offensive and violent actions. After the Charlottesville attack, where one woman died, Discord barred servers promoting Nazi ideology. CEO Citron said on his statement that Discord’s core mission is to bring people together for gaming and that the company is firmly against any form of violence. The company has been strengthening its app to prevent such incidents from happening, and it will continue to be aggressive against any kind of action promoting hate and violence. ### **Discord announces 90/10 Revenue Split in 2019** After announcing in August its plan to build out a game store, Discord followed an announcement in December that they’ll be pursuing a competitive 90/10 revenue split for self-published games this 2019. Discord is transforming its store into a “self-serve game publishing platform.” With the 90/10 revenue split, any developer can now publish their own games on the store and keep 90% of their revenue. The remaining 10%, on the other hand, will cover operating costs. Moreover, the company also announced that they’ve garnered 250 million active users on their application as of May 2019, up from 130 million users in May 2018. This means that the Discord game store has a large number of potential customers, which is a very much attractive opportunity to game developers. ## **Is Discord Making Money?** Perhaps, the question still remains: is Discord profitable? Discord might be utilizing a freemium business model, but it seems that they’re earning enough money or even higher to operate the company and it can be seen by its amazing record for the past years. Since it was launched in 2015, the company have attracted the attention of big firms in the gaming market, such as Index Funds and Greylock Ventures, to invest large sums of money on them. The money they receive from funds from big companies alone is already a reflection of how successful they have become. Moreover, in three years’ time, Discord has grown so much from 25 million users in 2016 to an enormous 200 million active users in December. Discord might be earning only little revenues from cosmetic items, its merchandise, and subscription plans, but they have an extensive scope of audience, more than enough to sustain the company’s operating costs. Since they’ve been experimenting on new strategies last year, like the Discord game store and the 90/10 revenue split, I think it’s not wrong to say that one can easily foresee Discord’s continues success in their competitive field of market. ## **Conclusion** Discord is an app built for the convenience of 21st-century gamers. It has all the functionalities in one single app with numerous customization features to suit your likes. I love the fact that Discord is leaning to the side of game developers. The 90/10 revenue split will favor game developers a lot, mostly to those who are starting up in this field. If it becomes a success, Discord will also benefit a lot from this market plan by securing millions of users on their Discord app. If you’re a gamer and you haven’t tried out Discord yet, it’s not too late to try this new hype. Register now and start [connecting with game players online.](https://discordapp.com/register) If you enjoyed this post, share it with a friend! Learn about how other popular social media companies are making money: - [How does Facebook make its money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - The [monetization strategy of Whatsapp](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-whatsapp-make-money/) and why it is worth $19B - [Is Instagram Profitable?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) - [How can Robinhood afford $0 trades?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/) - [Will Snapchat survive or die?](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 Discord's monetization quietly matured: revenue crossed **~$700M in 2024**, with **Nitro subscriptions** (~$9.99/mo) the primary line plus server-level **Boost** payments and the new **App Directory** (revenue share with verified bot developers, rolled out mid-2024). The 2026 reality for community operators: - **AutoMod's LLM-based variant** rolled out in 2024 — the rule-based moderation in older guides is now table stakes. - **Discord activities** (embedded apps like games and watch parties) drove the largest engagement jump of 2025 for active servers. - Voice and stage channels remain the moat against Slack/Telegram for community use cases. The "how Discord makes money" answer in 2026 leads with Nitro, then enterprise data licensing (small but growing), then the App Directory rev-share. --- ## How to Contact Google [Phone, Email, Support] ? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-google/ Published: 2021-04-02 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: If you are having issues with any Google product, here you will find a way to contact Google. Here’s how to contact Google via the Phone, and how to contact Google Adsense and Adwords (also called Google Ads in some countries). ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Did you know that on average, people all over the world use at least one Google product per day?* If you are having issues with any Google product, here you will find a way to contact Google. Here’s how to contact Google via the Phone, and how to contact Google Adsense and Adwords (also called Google Ads in some countries). Related: Learn [how Google makes money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) ## **Google’s Phone Number** ![](/images/posts/inline/6c77f2b9-screenshot_2.png) > Google’s Support phone number is: **1-855-836-1987.** Upon pickup, an automated teller sends you through a series of menus. Pay close attention to each instruction as cooperation and patience would be needed to sift through these pre-prepared recordings. Unless you have a serious issue with, say, an Android phone, you would most like be requested by a recorded voice to visit a specific webpage to help you resolve your issue. ## **Contacting Google for Google Drive Support** ![](/images/posts/inline/4bcc90eb-screenshot_3-1.png) Surprisingly, Google Drive is the only app product which the company allows direct contact with its support. This is since cloud drive and files issues are serious problems that need much care. Just imagine losing a spreadsheet which contains all your invoices or employee salary saved in the Google cloud. From [support.google.com](http://support.google.com) webpage, 1. Click on the icon of Google Drive. 2. On the following webpage, click on the “Contact Us” found on the upper righthand corner of the page. 3. From the dropdown menu, keeping in mind that clauses such as “Missing or deleted files” would allow for direct contact (other options will not redirect you). 4. Once you find the next menu, choose the way you want Google to reach you. Choose between a callback, chat request, or email. Now you wait for Google to call, chat, or email you. ## **Contacting Google for Adsense Support** ![](/images/posts/inline/2c0bd209-adsense-1024x562.png) If you run ads on your site [like me](https://alejandrorioja.com/), you will probably run into issues loading your Adsense ads at some point. As a preliminary, before contacting Google through Adsense, you can first check if your Google product issue has been solved in the articles made by Google’s pool of troubleshooting writers here [https://support.google.com/adsense/](https://support.google.com/adsense/?hl=en#topic=3373519) If you still have not been able to find your fix in those articles, community forums are also available here [https://support.google.com/adsense/community/](https://support.google.com/adsense/community/) However, to actually contact Google through Adsense, you have to reach them through their [sales department](https://www.google.com/adsense/start/get-started/contact-sales/). You have to place yourself as someone who is doing a startup agreement with Google Ads and expecting to get answers fast. The only problem is that this method requires that you be an agency managing a website which has at least 3 million page views per day or website owner having 300,000 page views per day. Related: Here are how to find the [best CPC keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) ## **Contacting Google Support for Adwords (or Google Ads)** ![](/images/posts/inline/aceec7c7-screenshot_5.png) Google can also be reached through their Google Adwords (in some countries, Google Ads) support team. If you are a typical business owner trying to catch Google, you can still possibly get some technical support, although it is very unlikely. The most efficient way to do this is to send a support message through Google.com. Follow these simple instructions 1. Visit the webpage [support.google.com](http://support.google.com) 2. Scroll down the menus and clauses to expand the dropdown menu to show the Business section 3. Click on either AdWords (or Google Ads) or Google My Business 4. In the upper righthand corner of the page, click “fix” or “contact” 5. Choose the option that best fits your current problem of troubleshooting issue (Note that many options are a literal dead end; thus they will not lead you to an actual contact form) 6. Click the return arrow (an arrow pointing towards the left) and choose one option that will end up in a contact form or a contact us link. 7. You should be able to see a form asking for your personal contact details and other information about your current problem. 8. Fill out the form quickly, and patiently wait for a reply back. Notice, in this case, that specifically choosing “Google My Business” is the more practical choice to get a callback or a simple reply. This is since Google provides no actual support channel asking about the regular and typical troubleshooting issues. A pro tip to remember is that if you choose the option “advertise my business” or “advertise with Google,” you are most likely to receive a response from the specialized support team depending on your preferred contact medium. Pro tip: if you are spending serious money on Google Adwords, at some point you will probably be assigned an Account Representative. In this case, you should direct your problems to that person as they will be the best equipped to guide you how to solve them. ## **Connecting to Google through AdWords’ Phone Number** ![](/images/posts/inline/1287eb06-screenshot_6.png) > Google Adwords in the United States can be reached through the **AdWords Telephone Number:** 1-866-2GOOGLE (1-866-246-6453). This number, however, is not the Google Ads telephone number for those outside the U.S. since each country has its own AdWords subordinate which has a local counterpart. Do not believe just any list on the internet for your local Google Ads telephone number as most of them might be bogus, or even be a sham. Find the Google Ads contact for your country here [https://support.google.com/google-ads/gethelp](https://support.google.com/google-ads/gethelp). Also, this page is where you can check if you can contact Google through email. Nevertheless, when you advertise on Google, you are much more likely to receive support and directly speak with an actual customer service representative. Just like [Facebook’s revenue](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/), most of the profits of Google come from top-up advertisers who put their webpages at the preliminary page of google search results.  Usually, when you see the word “Ad” next to your search results in Google, you should immediately assume that it is a business that pays Google to place them before your searches. Google is willing to speak with businesses who wish to spend more money on advertising through them. Other requests for contact that are considered by Google as issues needing support from a human customer service representative is Google My Business (as previously discussed in this article) and Google’s review websites. They use these webpages to introduce business officials and owners to their products for advertising; thus, Google offers customer service to owners who want to improve their own business listings and reach. In this method, you must be prepared to be sales-talked by representatives from Google since they are trained to sell you Adwords. Keep in mind that when talking to these representatives and you inquire about Search Engine Optimization (SEO), or placing your business on Google’s “free section,” you will most likely not get any specific advice. The Google support team will most likely redirect you to support documents and articles which speak of the best practices to consider. Lastly, they would avoid questions about difficulties and issues with your website and showing up on Google for free. As such, this only goes to show that the best way to get an actual solution and response is through an SEO consultant. It just means finding a person with prior experience in getting businesses to show up on the Google search results. ## **A Final Note** As with all service providers, mishaps and problems of Google product acquisition and usage are not uncommon. If you are reading this, you probably have had difficulties with one or two Google products and are expecting a quick response. Keep in mind that in contacting [Google](http://google.com), you should go directly into the support link of the product you are having problems with. Google itself is already hard to contact, and we should not let the opportunity to speak with a customer representative come to a waste. We must bear in mind to be both polite and concise. Imagine yourself being the calmest in speaking to a customer service representative or writing to Google (and waiting for a reply back). Instead of making things complicated, keep your words to a minimum and cover everything in as little words as possible. As consumers, we are expected to talk ourselves through product use problems with good manners and quick responses. If you are trying to contact Google because your site isn’t ranking, then that’s an [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) problem. Here’s how to [get ranked on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-seo/). Related: Here’s [how to contact Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-contact-instagram/). --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Do Affiliate Marketing: The Complete Guide For Beginners Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/ Published: 2021-03-29 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: Social Media Marketing, affiliate marketing, seo philippines TL;DR: For those who are dreaming to become influencers, I have other guides on how to make money on Snapchat, but today let’s try your hand at Affiliate Marketing, because a little side income doesn’t hurt, right? ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Being an affiliate marketer can be challenging, especially if you are starting your career in this industry. Affiliate marketing facilitates making money online through blog posting. It will also help you to have a stable and scalable income. However, most marketers fail to have a steady income because they didn’t focus on serving their audience.  Affiliate marketing is based on the marketing strategy to earn a commission by reselling products or services. Given a chance to earn a side income, would you want to: 1. Learn how stock markets work so that you could take on substantial risks with your money while working there? 2. Find a side job that adds to your weekly working hours and tires you out for the weekend that you spend sleeping? **OR** 3. Get with your time and earn a side income with no risk to your money with a simple process that does not require any effort to learn? Chances are, you picked the third option. Even if you didn’t, just assume you did and read ahead to learn about this fantastic little concept called Affiliate Marketing.  For those who are dreaming to become influencers, I have other guides on [how to make money on Snapchat](https://flux.la/how-to-make-money-on-snapchat/), but today let’s try your hand at Affiliate Marketing, because a little side income doesn’t hurt, right? ## What is affiliate marketing? You see all those bloggers and influencers recommending you new stuff to try, and let’s be honest, you take their advice seriously sometimes like you would trust a friend, but unlike your friends, they make money every time you buy something off their link — called the affiliate links. It all works through an affiliate network. You find a product in the networks that appeal to you and start marketing it on your forums. When the product generates sales through your marketing efforts, you earn a commission on it! You don’t have to learn the shorts, longs, and derivatives of a financial market and stock trading to earn your income here. Persistent marketing efforts will get you passive income here! Relevant: [Also check my guide on online marketing here](https://alejandrorioja.com/online-marketing-digital-guide/) ## Affiliate Marketing – The new and the old Although the concept sounds very modern, it is not. Most people believe that affiliate marketing is a consequence of the internet. But, this has been going on for centuries. It’s similar to how a man discovers fires, tell other people around about it, and the word spreads.  Fast forward to the age of the internet, William J. Tobin launched and patented the first-ever affiliate marketing program in 1989. The program began from his company called PC Flowers & Gifts. Using Tobin’s ideas, CDNOW launched its BuyWeb program in 1994. This is where the very first idea of affiliate marketing took root. Customers were provided links on third-party websites that would take them directly to CDNOW pages to purchase albums. ![](/images/posts/inline/3e4bda62-the-history-of-affiliate-marketing-1-scaled.jpg) After that point, the process kept evolving to turn it into what you see today – one of the main marketing techniques for companies worldwide. So, while in those days, CDNOW needed to have its links on full-fledged websites, today, you could just use social media like [Twitter to expand your business](https://flux.la/using-twitter-expand-business/). ## Marketing Competitiveness  Here is a very justifiable reason why the idea of Affiliate Marketing has picked up pace in recent years.  Marketing is no longer just about creating awareness about your products. Today, it is about changing perceptions and prompting buying behavior in a consumerist society. And this is precisely what makes marketing so competitive today that strategies [have been developed to teach people how to sell anything.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) ![Image result for how competitive is marketing today stats](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/yc-x8cVntpNenT_--bYRCVLG2F_BMZyFyVbVrQ-QUmQYiZf7J_Q615TaXv1jDqATal3qp2in2lrzqPoVu2WHDI4g2a-ky6Od5-ClrFPvbXrmbrKzKCA5dzQ3Zr36lHwORp6aGo_e) Not just that, the past decade has seen marketing budgets by companies shoot up. The rising competition and all the clutter on popular media are fought with an aggressive approach to marketing today.  So much so that brands are openly competing. Take Burger King, for instance, that has been taking on McDonald’s for years now. With their recent [ad burning campaign](https://www.marketingweek.com/burger-king-cmo-creativity-digital/), Burger King has taken it up one level to beat the giant McDonald’s marketing campaign. ## Does Affiliate Marketing Work? There are a few questions that you might have about affiliate marketing. Do affiliate marketing programs work? Do they bear any benefit for the business? Even more importantly, do they bear any results for you when you start the program? Well, driving straight into facts, it becomes rather apparent how effective affiliate programs are for publishers. A total of [16%](https://www.businessinsider.com/omnichannel-marketing-strategy-and-research-e-commerce-and-online-sales-2016-11) of the total e-commerce sales come from affiliate marketing! Just imagine how huge a figure of 16% of the global online sales represents. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/nOYV1Rd_bJIvgNuWaHnmJ80q6MTNafEF6vtzFWaL1iiraXLaa-CJ0mJ6MJFM3nzgDO7DCdR9EsiGbOk6ZlVLBDWRMAW6APpj3ikJz8VONAf36K__mHSeYRi-OelkHQn1XMTzj7Qy) The channel has been so effective and accessible for a business that it was voted as one of the top two revenue generators for publishers. So, there is no doubt about its popularity and effectiveness among affiliates. It is not just side income that people are earning from affiliate programs, it is a regular source of income. About 35% of affiliates earn over [$20000](http://affstat.com/) from their affiliate programs! When it comes to brands, about 81% of brands use these programs to promote the sales of their products and services to the mass market. Spending on Affiliate marketing is expected to rise to about $6.8 billion in 2020 in the U.S. alone! ## How to do Affiliate Marketing Ever heard someone saying, “I make so much money just from telling people to buy new stuff and click on things,”. There is more to the picture than what it looks like! While it all sounds lucrative and interesting, affiliate marketing may not be as easy as people make it out to be. After all, it is a process, and you compete against several other affiliates while trying to make an income.  . Given that you stick to the basics (which, by the way, are pretty easy to learn) and follow a clear outline, you can achieve your target.. Here are a few tips on how to do affiliate marketing: ### **1\. Pick a niche** Marketing 101 will teach you that a niche is any product or service that appeals to a select portion of the population. Of course, selecting a niche also implies that the needs and wants of that segment of customers are unmet. So, with your eye for a [blue ocean](https://www.blueoceanstrategy.com/what-is-blue-ocean-strategy/), you enter a market that is only for you.  Here are a few tips on finding your niche: - **Find Inspiration at Home** The essential step at finding a niche is to look for inspiration in your life. Think about your problems and try to identify a segment where no brand already exists. Try looking at your most common problems and your everyday schedule to identify where you can cut down on time and costs. A hack that people often use to identify their niche is to use premium products in their lives as the focal point. If you can identify a segment that is only being catered to by a premium product that charges a premium price, you can find a cheaper solution and win the segment over.  If you do find something you can work with, congratulations! You have your niche. If you do not, try the next step. - **Look Into People’s Lives** Look around you and observe the lifestyle of others. You will find that purchasing habits tend to be relatively different across a particular lifestyle.  To get some real insights and solutions, try looking into different demographics. That is your choice if you want to tap another economic segment or a different age group, get inspiration wherever it comes from. Try looking for people who need an offering that is not available. Try looking for people who have had complaints with their previous purchases, and you know how to solve their problems. If people can find inspiration for ideas like [Robinhood](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-robinhood-make-money/), you can find ideas for paid offerings.  - **Ads are Your Friends** Do you know those annoying ads that keep popping up as you connect with your friends over social media?  When these ads pop up, try looking at what they are offering. They could be your insight into a niche that you will tap and work on.  From their offering, you can gauge pretty well what type of target market they are working on and use the same ideas. Or, if possible, you could try to work on a similar sort of offering for your niche. - **Technology Trends** Perhaps the safest bet at finding a niche is to follow hardcore facts and trends. Try looking into technology and understand what is coming.  When you know what is coming in the future, you have a much better chance of predicting and creating a service that people do not yet have. And you know about technology, the ground belongs to the first-mover.   - **Find Good Products to Promote** Once you have a niche,  the next step is to choose the specific product to work on. As a beginner, you would want to work on products that can get you into sales figures, even if they offer lower commissions. As you learn the tricks of this trade, you can expand into product categories that give you a higher commission for each sale.  Regardless of the commission, though, what you must be able to tell is whether the product is sellable. You probably cannot create a market for an iPhone 4 today, neither can you sell those old bulky monitors.  To understand what products sell today and which ones do not, market research is a must. And you begin from the very basics when doing that research. You begin from the industry to understand where it’s going. If the trends dictate that the industry is dying out, you do not jump into it. You also look into the specifications and the quality of the product. Understanding the product build quality and specifications will help you tweak its value proposition to fit your target market. Perhaps the biggest help in deciding on a good product to sell is to look at its product reviews. Where do you look for them? Of course, at a site that sells everything from A to Z i.e Amazon. ![Image result for amazon reviews effectiveness stats](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ltzfUBZ5Z-kXHgwvSfx04XwHHewArC4O7ladkWR9PFUOqFXXxq1YxsAEzs8OR3kjHc-mXCFIFtx15vsFwRYZuc9tKkI78tenY7YFiZS6aJKLhirFhH-qfHMb91IFG2rkOTzBg7_y) Statistics clearly show that the highest sales are for products that have a high rating.  But Amazon is not the only place that you can find reviews for your product. Studies show that reviews in e-commerce are one of the most important factors in sales growth for companies.  No matter how big Amazon maybe, it is not the only place to find reviews about your products. Social media platforms, in particular, are an important source of review collection and generation.  Since organizations are much more responsive to social media, people may want to reach out to them there. That is why a bulk of reviews on social media are catered to immediately.  I am sure my guide on finding a niche that I wrote for The Huffington post will make your decision easier. [Read it here](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_us_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7)! ### **2\. Decide on The Platforms to Use** The only way you can ensure that your affiliate program is better than others and hence attracts more people is to ensure that you choose the right platform to work. Every platform will be different and offer its features to help you work. You get to decide what platform works best in general, fit in with your niche and target audience, and helps you tackle competition. You can find plenty of reviews about the platforms. Of the most popular affiliate platforms today, some are as follows:  - **Amazon affiliates** Also called Amazon Associates,  is a platform by ) Amazon. And just like any other platform running a full-fledged affiliate program, Amazon Affiliates provides its customers with plenty of choices. You get to choose from three different types of affiliate marketing: - Pay-per-click: affiliate paid on how many visitors arrive at the site via the affiliate’s link - Pay-per-sale: affiliate paid on how many purchases customers sent by the affiliate make. - Pay-per-lead: affiliate paid on the number of visitors that sign up as leads with the merchant. Whatever the type of program you choose, Amazon takes only about 24 hours to give you your share when you succeed in bringing in a customer.  - **ClickBank** ClickBank is another one of the most popular affiliate platforms running today that has a vast network for marketers to promote programs. You can use the *Affiliate Finder* feature in the network to find the best affiliates. Moreover, ClickBank is one of the few affiliate marketing platforms that offer mobile-optimized order forms for your smartphones and tablets. As an affiliate, you can also find custom order forms that will give you better conversions and subscription management to control product subscriptions and memberships.  One of the best features of ClickBank, though, is the great customer support it offers and the ability to create joint venture contracts. The pricing for the platform is reasonable. - **ClickFunnels** ClickFunnels is among one of the new platforms to offer its support for affiliate programs and offers features like no other. The commission rates at ClickFunnels are just crazy, standing at 40% of each sale that the affiliate brings. All you need to earn this money is to create a ClickFunnels affiliate account and get working. However, you will need some help in understanding how the platform works and the type of benefits it offers. It is not every day that you get to use a tool that is considered to be number one when it comes to affiliate marketing. Relevant: [Read my review of Clickfunnels here](https://alejandrorioja.com/clickfunnels-review/) - **Other Brands** While not as popular, several different brands, too, run their affiliate marketing programs. These include Canva, SEMrush and Bluehost that offer affiliates brands flexibility. Of course, these platforms may not be as powerful as the other three, but they do offer a basic understanding of how affiliate marketing works. ### 3\. Buy a domain and hosting Your effort in affiliate marketing focuses on your website that takes people to the merchant site. For this very reason, you must ensure that you always get the right domain and hosting.  Contrary to popular beliefs, your domain and hosting for affiliate marketing may be different from your regular everyday website. Two of the platforms most considered for affiliate marketing hosting are Godaddy and Bluehost. However, you should understand what factors go into picking the right domain and hosting for your affiliate marketing program. In choosing the right program, ensure that you consider the following factors: 1. Guaranteed Uptimes: this is how often your website will be online during a week, month, or year. People will not come back to your site if they see it is down unless necessary.  2. Load Times: statistics say that the probability of bounce increases by [32%](https://www.hobo-web.co.uk/your-website-design-should-load-in-4-seconds/) if the loading speed of your website increases by two seconds from 1 to 3 seconds! You know what to do. 3. Backup: you never know when your website may get attacked, and you lose your data. That is why it is so important to always get back up for your data when you get your hosting.  4. Support: usually, websites offer support for their hosting. In case you are a beginner, you are going to need it and must ensure that the support quality is better than most.  [Don’t forget to read Bluehost review her](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/) ### 4\. Create Content to Promote Products With almost [1.75 billion](https://www.internetlivestats.com/total-number-of-websites/) websites on the internet, how would your website break the noise and stand out for viewers? While you make your guesses, everyone understands that the only true answer is Search Engine Optimization.  Here is why it’s important: ![C:\\Users\\Fazeel\\AppData\\Local\\Microsoft\\Windows\\INetCache\\Content.MSO\\73DE3CC8.tmp](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/IjYvRCm3wFq11HeEbKLyzAugSdPK5xlRlYBDs9CUa2S_e8TWPgs9xQlLxjq_kEkx9zV6OVW_wEU4wt4VZsb02diacY-q8iHelSvxbRE31JiFGPx_mbIm0i8Swqhco0SeJ3Q7OrKM) Not only does the online experience for most people begin with a search engine, but also that most people tend to ignore the paid advertisements online.  Contrary to popular beliefs, though, SEO is not all about keywords. The algorithm for Google has changed over the years to include not only keywords but also the length of the content, the number of pictures, and high authority links on the page. In addition to just that, modern trends dictate that SEO is more about engaging with people. This includes personalization for content and helps people connect to the content. Moreover, establishing authority creates credibility and helps people connect with your website.  ### 5\. Promote The Content via Different Channels One of the most common trends today in promoting your content and products on the internet is to never rely on anyone’s platform too much. To reach out to a maximum number of the customer throughout the internet, the real strategy to follow is to use multiple channels. - **Social media** Social media forms one of the most important channels by far for any type of promotion. Several statistics talk about how social networks form the best online media for purchases among customers.  ![Image result for promoting content on different channels stats](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/NnWOYqNWSWJ757GUjeGEQzBNTf5nJljbDHpKB7axl0QTA6Uhv9JFtjlXQCbdLxaX8SSwcwjj_tsU7uvWXSJFlt3S08pP9hQRNLzYnYsLfNclWUFzxqrcfjPY2P5k1wEhipPedaon) ![Image result for promoting content on different channels stats](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RMyoKIgyVYaGCAD0vjHW7DkyakKRdgmZkcmWZEPE447vOwgW22ro4G3rEMStYwZuMuRTu8_5NdoHJgIUqxX_uX1QJxFSbrgh2z8xIR_stcVJa7GYeGAEtGozcXmwdmLMzRz5hply) But it’s always smart to take into account other forums besides Facebook to make sure you target all target audiences. - **YouTube videos** YouTube is the second most popular search engine after Google. That in itself says a lot about its importance as a channel for promoting your products. That is why it is especially popular among brands and affiliates to market their products. ![Image result for promoting content on different channels stats](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eBxVmByWLtHLLiVoVlkogMoDwKayXjsLXwATOFj7dJas-C5MyfxWztCh4R8j6IpCubrpJ5-I9s-NtybA5G4RT_fD-q1wmtv65aQ8v6hLJXsXMHdl2SlKKzkuIf_tz4juakpXfidQ) Statistics show that YouTube is by far the most popular when it comes to content distribution plans of organizations around the world. YouTube has a huge part to play in making your affiliate marketing success.  So, you should start with your [YouTube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) soon and focus on it as you go along.  - **Email** As discussed earlier, email is still one of the most important media to market your products and services around the world. Even today, while most people would consider it to be outdated, email usage is still massive. ![C:\\Users\\Fazeel\\AppData\\Local\\Microsoft\\Windows\\INetCache\\Content.MSO\\EC30985.tmp](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/uiqzmu37mMUhripHUVkBz-XRizsYLrswPHNb0lGrJQvyFtAMKIuLeqvzLEjz9aQiiEEd2CcIKmuobgu28Op4DMxaoc7IzBkppCcHljF8v1U9ZVH-CNvVMTwipuZ5HdY1so0Rr-qS) It is still growing, and the expected number of people using email is to rise to 4.3 billion people by 2023. - **Webinars** Webinars have not only become popular but are still growing in popularity as social media takes over. Webinars are online meetings held often through the use of social media channels and bring together several people.  - **Paid ads** While most people believe that paid ads on the internet are a dying trend, it is not the case. As a matter of fact, with the tools that social media is allowing its customers, particularly regarding the specific targeting campaigns that they offer, ads are anything but dying out now.  ![Image result for paid ads stats](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EHOzGifD6j7_yclxD9SsrfxUSRIXt_nBlxVy3yBToMHt2crTnKiYC0UMTIaOMxPLR29Qn2R55kTotaDsOgnF_VWLN0_7--PpFqgnMsVj8cnd6_dMVm9Z3u059seTP1XGUqtPnfgV) A study of the marketing budgets reveals that these budgets have been rising and will continue to rise in the coming five years too.  So, while a channel may look uninteresting at the very onset, it is always worth investigating what impact a channel can create for your affiliate marketing. Without any doubt, paid advertisements always have and always will work out for your business. [Relevant: How to smartly manage the Facebook Ad budget?](https://alejandrorioja.com/100-bucks-facebook-ad-budget/) ## The Common Practice in Affiliate Marketing What Passes for Usual With such prevalence in the market, any concept will usually find plenty of typical activities associated with it. For affiliate Marketers, these are some of the common practices these are: 1. **Researching:** since affiliate marketing is about acquiring more and more customers for your merchant, it is essential to understand what the customers are looking for. This then means that the affiliate has to put in plenty of time to research before designing any proper marketing campaign. 2. **Blogs:** most affiliates will try their hand at creating blogs to begin their affiliate marketing effort and keep them updated. Not just that, blogs are created but also that they are regularly updated. That is why the internet is so filled with information about all those blogs that guide people to do better.  3. **Sticking to What Works:** affiliates also tend to follow trends, just like any other marketer. Sticking to what works is standard in every other business. So why not affiliate marketing? 4. **Emailing:** As cliche as it might sound, emails are still one of the most popular segments for marketing, particularly affiliate marketing. This will usually work with the help of an email service provider. 5. **Utilizing Influencers:** As the world follows more and more *thought leaders* and *influences*, marketers have realized that they can become indispensable resources for their businesses. Using these influencers to spread the word has become a usual practice in Affiliate Marketing.  6. **Personalization:** Empowerment (regardless of gender) is an everyday topic today. This has marketers recognizing that generic campaigns can no longer tap their customers. That every campaign for every customer has to be personalized for maximum impact. So, adding customer names rather than just pronouns is a common practice for affiliate marketers today. ## The Best Affiliate Products for Beginners A considerable proportion of success for several affiliate marketers depends on the category of affiliate product chosen.  ![Image result for affiliate marketing effectiveness stats](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/zOusDA7TjWbiZHSdgNsBCvt7K8epXd8OziSZ_UZzAuI7FNq8mqp2tFBJ6oyM4DhiC9ov7qhxxzIGHk7oWwQfQaetWa3Bk_kVn7iwHFGHRCA2meMWjjF6kwhyteAdQ5TZ_9OKgyOI) Statistics clearly show that the best 20 affiliate categories range from fashion to art and photography. While beginners should always stick to categories that are on the top of these stats because of guaranteed sales, competition is a factor worth considering. As experience increases, you can explore the categories in the lower segment, given that there is little to no competition. ## To Wrap Up! To recap, here is what you need to do to begin as an affiliate marketer: 1. Come up with a niche — something that excites you to the core of what you are an expert at! 2. Decide on the platform to use —there are so many options, check which one would suit your niche and interest. 3. Set up a website/blog  4. Start reviewing the product — Make the most of the social marketing channels. 5. Be persistent with content  6. Boom! Just be patient as the marketing efforts will take some time to deliver! If this article helped you, don’t forget to share it with your friends. Let me know in the comments section if you ever planned to plunge into this exciting world of affiliate marketing. Also read: 1. [My best digital marketing guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) 2. [A guide to sell anything to anyone](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) 3. [How to best monetize your Facebook page?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Apply to All Jobs on AngelList (Script) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-apply-to-a-lot-of-jobs-on-angellist-script/ Published: 2021-03-28 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Marketing **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. We’ve all been there. Applying to all companies just to never hear back or getting rejected right away. Here’s a script that you can use to apply to your dream job on [AngelList](https://angel.co). ``` function scrollToBottom(){ bottom = document.body.scrollHeight; current = window.innerHeight+ document.body.scrollTop; if((bottom-current) >0){ window.scrollTo(0, bottom); //wait a few setTimeout ( 'scrollToBottom()', 1500 ); } (function() { var placeholderString, placeholderWords, contactName, companyName, customNote, jobDescription, jobUrl, jobInfo, str = ''; $('.job_listings') .filter(function(_, elem) { return ($(elem).attr('data-force-note') ); }) .each(function(_, elem) { // Find the URL for each job listing. $(elem) .find('.top a') .each( function(idx, value) { str += $(value).attr('href') + "\n"; }); // Get the company and contact info placeholderString = $(elem) .find('.interested-note').attr('placeholder'); // Split placeholder string into words: placeholderWords = placeholderString.split(' '); // Grab name of recruiter/contact contactName = placeholderWords; // Grab company name companyName = $(elem).find('.startup-link').text(); // Build personalized note customNote = "Hi " + contactName + "! Would love to join " + companyName + " using my diverse set of skills. Let's chat!"; // .header-info .tagline (text) jobDescription = $(elem).find('.tagline').text(); // .header-info .startup-link (href attr) jobUrl = $(elem).find('.startup-link').attr('href'); // Compile and format job information jobInfo = companyName + '\n' + jobDescription + '\n' + str + '\n\n'; // Get job data for your own records console.log(jobInfo); // Comment this out to verify your customNote // console.log(customNote + '\n'); // Add your custom note. // Comment these lines out to debug $(elem) .find('.interested-note').text( customNote ); //Comment these lines out to debug $(elem) .find('.interested-with-note-button') .each( function(idx, button) { $(button).click(); }); }); // Print all of the company and job info to the console. return jobInfo; })(); }; scrollToBottom(); ``` ## How to use the auto-apply to all jobs script ![](/images/posts/inline/f0393fb0-image-1024x595.png) 1. Go to [https://angel.co/jobs](https://angel.co/jobs) and use the filters related to your job search (i.e. Product Manager, SF) 2. Copy the script 3. Open the console (option+cmd+j) and paste it 4. Edit the customNote message (optional) 5. Hit enter 6. Get hired ## Caveats There’s a maximum number of active applications you can have on AngelList. I’m not sure how many those are but I estimate it around ~100, so be a bit more selective in your filters. From AngelList: [*Candidates: What does it mean that I’ve hit the application limit?*](https://angel.co/help/talent/application-limits) *At this time, the number of outstanding applications a candidate can have are limited. As they expire or are processed, you’ll be able to apply to more jobs. We encourage candidates to take the time to understand the company and be selective with their applications, instead of openly applying to every job out there.* *Ultimately this improves the experience for both sides – companies will get higher quality applications and candidates will be more likely to get a timely response.* If you liked this script, please share it with a friend. Drop a comment below with other scripts that you need! Read other guides here: - [how to invite all your friends to like your FB page](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## WooCommerce Vs. Shopify: Comparison Of Features & Pricing Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/woocommerce-vs-shopify/ Published: 2021-03-24 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: Before diving, take a look at this video on the most popular business ideas for those who want to set up shop for the first time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ig2EzgP44Ks According to Oberlo, e-commerce is defined as any business transaction done online. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. [Opening an online business](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) is becoming one of the most popular income options nowadays. This is rising due to the changing preferences of shoppers. Aside from that, there are more people connected to the Internet. With that in mind, many services can help you host and open your website. In this article, I will compare Woocommerce and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/). First, I will introduce what each website offers. After that, I’ll compare them to eight aspects: expertise, experience, scalability, SEO-friendliness, mobile-friendliness, security, and support. Before diving, take a look at this video on the most popular business ideas for those who want to set up shop for the first time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ig2EzgP44Ks ## Why choose an e-commerce platform According to [Oberlo](https://www.oberlo.com/), e-commerce is [defined](https://www.oberlo.com/ecommerce-wiki/ecommerce) as any business transaction done online. It can range between transferring money from one bank account to another or buying goods on a website. Here are [several reasons](https://blog.getpayever.com/why-do-you-need-an-ecommerce-platform-for-selling-services-77042b995c09) as to why you should opt for an e-commerce platform: ### 1\. New opportunities over a new internet I have mentioned that most people are on the Internet and are buying stuff online. With that in mind, new businesses should [invest using an e-commerce platform](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) to get a slice of that pie. ### 2\. Wider customer reach Once you use an e-commerce platform for your business, your products and services will be seen by anyone on the Internet. This enables you to get orders from anyone around the world with an internet connection. That way, you have a bigger chance of earning more from your business. ### 3\. Create a network of trust Besides everyone seeing your products and services, you can use the e-commerce platform to step up your image towards your future customers. This will help you convince them that they should buy your products and services. As an additional bonus, this will help you gain trustworthiness as a brand at the same time. ### 4\. Keeps your business open 24/7 Once you post something on the Internet, it stays there for as long as it should be. This can be said about making use of e-commerce platforms. You won’t be restricted from providing products and services within the usual 8-hour limit per day. ### 5\. Invest a small amount in exchange for a simple setup If you are unfamiliar with making your website but want to make one for your business, investing in e-commerce platforms is your way to go. They usually charge you a small amount per month to use their resources to make a website around your business idea.  Aside from that, they continuously improve themselves to make it easier for you to upload new products, fulfill orders, and update your blog. - Produce a modern image for your brand I mentioned earlier that putting your business on the Internet can help you gain your customer’s trust. In addition to that, you can make use of the e-commerce platform to show your customers what your brand means to them. This is to help you stay on top of your competitors too. - Upgrade your customer support Putting your business through [an e-commerce platform](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) will help your customers order it during any time of the day and week, this means that you can assist them whenever possible. This can also help you with two things. One, fulfilling these orders will help you gain their trust. Two, you can showcase your brand image. ## WooCommerce at a glance ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/uV4-Tcm-4R3RbZWcVzxkGEItW89BF0q9xPpeklkykSabqUsHyG6HJozF-kcFq8pGbsj8vIDGubqoD1vI4IVMn3cll3S8IjXfigpSrDO7viNhvzzogtM4s9BSNUKuOV51MzbyB9mo) WooCommerce is an e-commerce platform that builds upon an existing website platform called [WordPress](https://wordpress.com/). Simply put, WordPress helps you make a website from scratch or use an existing template. WooCommerce puts it one step further and turns it into its marketplace to buy and sell items or services. It was created by Mike Jolley and James Koster while using a version of Jigoshop, an existing e-commerce plugin. They were able to publish its first version in 2011. Four years later, both it and WooThemes were purchased by Automattic. Said company is behind WordPress too. Since then, it is one of the top companies associated with e-commerce platforms. Getting 25% of total users worldwide is no laughing matter. ## Shopify at a glance ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ilYr4TjZCUZLg4N1DzN-kZVRLZkgh5wZ1dUPVlVnals46AMEUxiuc0wjFuNWzNFfuKdUkA3oLzYchw2tka4KbkSwwJdAUpkdDUdoFqxGbxYiFkdNOjYQ_dGb17fLxpMfY-NvkEGr) As one of the e-commerce platforms with the highest market share, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) is another tool that you can use to make your website. Shopify started in 2004 as a platform for a snowboarding store by Tobias Lutke, Daniel Weinland, and Scott Lake. After it failed a few years later, they relaunched in 2006. Unlike WooCommerce, they have their in-house platform to create your website and keep it updated any time you want. ## Comparing Woocommerce and Shopify After a brief introduction with each platform, let us explore what makes either platform great. We will compare each platform through eight different categories. ### Expertise and experience WooCommerce prides itself on being a flexible platform for business owners who want to take advantage of their accounts with WordPress. You can choose to build one from scratch or use their platform-compatible themes. Meanwhile, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) prides itself on being an all-in-one platform. Not only would you be able to sell a variety of products, but you can also make a blog for your website. This type of setup fits most medium to large enterprises. ### Scalability This criterion involves how many features can it carry and how it will fit in how fast your business will grow.  #### WooCommerce There are several points to consider if you are thinking about making use of this platform for your business. ##### Requires a WordPress account If you are to make your business website through this platform, you should consider that it is a WordPress plugin. With that in mind, you need to create a WordPress account and add the WordPress plugin through their platform. You can do so by following the [following steps](https://digital.com/ecommerce-platforms/woocommerce/): 1. Call in a web-hosting provider to help keep your future website online. 2. Ask them to use WordPress to edit and manage your future website. 3. Build a base website using WordPress. 4. Install and configure WooCommerce onto the finished website ##### Gain access to a wide variety of plugins This allows you to gain [access to third-party plugins](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-add-easy-powerful-google-analytics-in-woocommerce/) to use with the open-source platform. Take note that some of these would require you to pay a fee to use them. Here are some of the plugins that you can use with WooCommerce: 1. Skyverge Memberships – give customers access to restricted content or products for free or for a price. 2. Amazon Pay – let our customers pay using Amazon Pay without leaving your site 3. ShipStation – helps you fulfill orders through WooCommerce 4. MailChimp – connect your email to your WooCommerce website 5. United States Postal Service – gives you shipping rates directly from the USPS to guide you for domestic and international parcels ##### Variety of features to assist with your store Aside from adding various plugins, signing up with WooCommerce gives you access to the following advantages: 1. Adjustable shipping rates and taxes 2. Unlimited number of products and product categories 3. Stock levels control 4. Complete control over your data 5. Sell digital items 6. Use an [affiliate marketing model](https://alejandrorioja.com/10-best-affiliate-marketing-programs/) 7. Manage product reviews 8. Categorize products 9. Add taglines for product images 10. Integrate with over 100 payment integrations 11. Automatically show tax on pricing, shipping, or store location 12. Manage discounts and coupons 13. Automate follow-up emails from customers 14. Track website activity 15. One-page checkout 16. Abandoned cart recovery through WooCommerce Follow-ups #### Shopify As I have mentioned in the previous section, Shopify prides itself on being a one-all be-all solution to businesses looking for a website to promote their products or services. For starters, you can opt to build it from the ground up using their [easy-to-use website builder](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/). An alternative is to choose from an array of templates and modify it to suit your brand’s niche. Then, you can start adding products manually through their system. You can also opt to import customer lists, orders, or reviews through a CSV file to their service too. It can contain more information, such as SKU or variants. Take note that selling digital products on the platform would require you to add a free app to your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) store. Aside from that, you would need to install a third-party plugin to provide subscriptions or allow customers to take in recurring payments. They allow for a variety of online payment processors for customers to use. However, they will charge extra transaction fees unless they make use of Shopify Payments, their in-house payment processor. On the other hand, they can allow various manual payment methods. When it comes to shipping, there are certain countries where Shopify can make use of live shipping rates for their customers. However, they can invest in discounted shipping labels to save them more money. Aside from that, they have dropshipping options. For taxes, you can hide or show prices with tax added. If you have stores in the US, you can make use of an automated tax calculator using the ZIP code. You can also enable or disable tax settings for certain countries or regions too. There are also options for you to [sell on various other websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) too. Shopify allows you to sell to places, including Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Amazon, and eBay. That way, you can manage these in one place. Speaking of managing them all in one place, you can also add various benefits for your customers. This includes gift cards, discount codes, and email marketing. You would have to integrate with a third-party app to create a loyalty program.  If you are expecting abandoned carts from your future customers, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) can help you remedy that. You can make use of an abandoned cart recovery tool. That way, you can increase the chances of getting a sale and return customers. Their services can also help those with brick-and-mortar businesses. You can make use of their in-house point-of-sale system to manage every customer interaction. If you want to get a card reader with that, you would have to pay extra for it, but it is a worthwhile investment. Relevant: [Shopify’s revenue model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) ### SEO-friendliness SEO stands for search engine optimization. It is an action that helps bring a [website higher on the search results](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/). This is especially important for online businesses as the higher up they are, the more they can make a sale, and the more they can promote their brand. With the advantage of WordPress, WooCommerce can help you gain the advantage of SEO easily. This includes adding additional features such as tags, categories, and website searches. Being able to dictate your website design for the maximum effect for SEO is a good idea. On the other hand, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) relies on the user’s creativity and effort to make their website as SEO-friendly as possible. However, do take note of the following takeaways: 1. URLs are not fully customizable 2. Unable to customize the generated Robots.txt 3. Some difficulty found to make sub-categories 4. Unable to customize sitemaps 5. Enable or disable automatic redirects ### Mobile-friendliness More and more people are accessing the internet through their smartphones and tablets. Due to this trend, it is highly recommended that websites should adjust themselves to these screens. This trend has been extending into online services such as social media and news websites. If you want to implement a mobile-friendly website using WooCommerce, you can thank WordPress for its adaptability. Since you can dictate how your website looks and flows, you can [customize your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) through their mobile-friendly themes. They load fast too. Meanwhile, creating a Shopify account means that your customers can also browse your website and buy something from their phone. They also have access to a wide array of themes that you can import that can display correctly on any device. ### Security When [setting up a website online](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/), you would have to deal with sensitive information. On any transaction, it will involve you gathering your customer’s address and payment details. Aside from that, you will also keep track of all your visitors. Thus, security is important. Remember that I said that you need a reliable web provider for WooCommerce? This includes protecting your pages from any possible cyberattacks in the future. Aside from that, you would have to rely on the security that comes with your plugins to protect the data too. Meanwhile, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) excels in this aspect. They provide their users with their SSL certificate, which secures all information exchanged during customer payments. In addition to this, you can feel reassured as it is a PCI-DSS compliant platform too.  ### Support If you are stuck in any way when using any of [these e-commerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/), having a channel where you can talk to someone or look up your issue through their guides. Doing this will help you keep you and your business back on track. For WooCommerce, you have access to the community through various forums through WordPress. Aside from that, the website gives you various DIY help sections too. You can also ask through their website for someone to help with your issue as well. Meanwhile, Shopify has 24/7 chat support. Aside from that, you can contact them through Twitter, over the phone, or an email message. They also have a knowledge base that can solve the most common issues you have, such as log-ins or editing website pages. ### Plans and pricing When using an e-commerce platform, it will require you to invest a bit of your income in your future business to open one. Let us take a look at how much WooCommerce and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) charge their users for their features. #### WooCommerce If you want to use this e-commerce platform, you can simply integrate it into your website by downloading it. However, there are several items that you would have to pay to make use of its full features: 1. Domain name 2. Hosting 3. WordPress theme 4. WordPress extensions 5. WooCommerce extensions 6. SSL certificate 7. Payment options #### Shopify If you want to make use of [this e-commerce platform](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/), you can choose between five different options where you have to pay a certain amount per month: ##### 1\. Basic Shopify ($29) For this subscription, this includes your website, blog, and store. Aside from that, you can post any amount of products, discount codes, and recover abandoned carts. In addition to that, you can create up to two staff accounts that can access this account. You can get up to a $64 shipping discount for each order with your shipping labels. When it comes to payment options, you would have to pay a rate of 2.9% plus 30 cents for every online credit card purchase. In-person transactions cost 2.7%, while other providers will cost 2%. Finally, you can make use of their POS feature. This also includes integrating your POS with other third-party applications. ##### 2\. Shopify ($79) This plan includes all the benefits of the Basic [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) plan but with additional features and some changes. From the start, you can track any movement within your website. Aside from that, you can learn about the USPS Priority Mail Cubic Prices. Finally, you can add up to 5 store locations and get hardware support. Compared to the previous plan, you can get up to a 72% shipping discount. Each online credit card purchase costs 2.6%, in-person purchases costs 2.5%, and other payment methods cost 1%. When it comes to the POS feature, you can manage shifts and POS pins aside from the allowances in the Basic Shopify plan. ##### 3\. Advanced Shopify ($299) This is one of the most expensive options available to any business. It includes all the features of the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) plan with several additional features and changes. For shipping, you can compare various shipping prices through various third-party applications. You can reach up to 74% now for this discount. When it comes to payment options, they can charge up to 2.4% for online credit card purchases. Meanwhile, other payment options now only cost 0.5% per transaction. Finally, you can add up to 8 store locations for this subscription. ##### 4\. Shopify Plus ($2,000 or 0.25% of eligible platform transactions) This account is reserved for large businesses only. Aside from the asking price of at least $2,000 per month for this subscription, this includes a 0.15% transaction fee for using third-party payment services. Before applying for this subscription, you need to earn at least $500,000 annually. However, you can try it out for 14 days for free. You can get the same features as the previous three subscriptions. However, they added additional benefits such as 99.98% uptime and set up your website on average for an average of 90 to 120 days. To learn more about their features, you can check out MerchantMaverick’s review of their service [here](https://www.merchantmaverick.com/reviews/shopify-plus-review/). ##### 5\. Shopify Lite ($9) If you want to start a business but cannot afford any previous options, you can opt for this subscription for $9. For starters, you can get an integrated Facebook store where you can sell your products on. This gets you an advantage to advertise on the social platform while letting your customers buy on it at the same time. With this plan, you can access the platform to upload your list of products, prices, and descriptions. This helps you update the integrated Facebook page at the same time. You can also talk to your customer’s inquiries through Facebook’s messenger service or providing an email or contact number on the page. Meanwhile, you can connect to various payment options while being able to send out invoices. ## Bottom line In short, both WooCommerce and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/) offer options for most businesses to take their steps for online sales. WooCommerce is known as an extension for your WordPress site, while Shopify is a one-stop e-commerce platform. They have their advantages and disadvantages. If you want to make use of either of them, you can use what you’ve learned now to decide and talk to them directly about it too. Was this article helpful for you? Check out these articles to help you with your business journey: - [The product development process](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-product-development-process/)  - [Becoming an entrepreneur](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-an-entrepreneur/)  - [Growth marketing tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-best-growth-hacking-marketing-techniques/)  Comment below on what you think about WooCommerce and Shopify! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Increase Your Adsense Revenue: Top Tips And Tricks Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/adsense-revenue/ Published: 2021-03-08 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Advertising (SEM), SEO, advertising, affiliate marketing, digital media tools, SEO Guide TL;DR: Among the advertising programs that help you monetize by ads, the most widely used is Google Adsense which was launched in 2003. By placing ads that are relevant to your content and target audience, it creates an opportunity for developers and site managers to earn from their traffic. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line There are many ways to earn money from one’s website. Primary sources of income include selling products online or receiving generous donations. Aside from those, you can also gain money from secondary sources such as advertising. Google Adsense, launched in 2003, places ads related to publishers’ content and target audience in exchange for paying them AdSense revenue. I recently talked about [making money on Twitch](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-money-on-twitch/) and a couple of my readers mentioned their challenges with earning revenue through Adsense on their websites. It was about time, I talked exclusively about how to increase your Adsense revenue. There are different ways you can earn money from your website – from fan donations to selling products on your site. However, some of them relate to advertising via third-party products which allow you to earn as online traffic flows in and out of your site. Among the advertising programs that help you monetize by ads, the most widely used is Google Adsense which was launched in 2003. By placing ads that are relevant to your content and target audience,  it creates an opportunity for developers and site managers to earn from their traffic. Relevant: [Also read about the best AdSense niches and highest CPC keywords here](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) Now here are some strategies you can implement yourself for increasing your AdSense revenue: ## 1\. Using Ezoic ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2BBAL0PXBTMEAy6ANLmFy3sDq2Bz8JS_-kkU9vsloQ0Rm49YFQa0c0EHX_jYgvWp_EbF7qNiI_GF78NAnEjmukuEX1L8CoWM2dP8bAl7D9Yl0oGvCwbPU2D9SGADDvBg-FyMFCUv) This is one of the best and simplest methods of optimizing AdSense revenues in the market today. However, this is only available for websites maintaining traffic of about 20,000-page visits every month. Otherwise, move to the next method and apply the manual techniques for optimizing AdSense. Ezoic is a free tool available for all bloggers who have the above monthly traffic. It allows web developers and bloggers to easily improve their websites. Once configured for your preferences, it will automatically start trying out ads to improve the visitor experience. You can [check this site](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic) for a recommendation from an actual user. What makes it popular among website owners is that it uses artificial intelligence to automate important decisions on your webpage. Instead of manually testing out your ad placement, Ezoic can try on your behalf ad placement factors such as the size and position of your ads. Even more, the machine learning algorithm implemented in Ezoic is focused on improving the visitor experience. This tool will keep your visitors happy and satisfied while helping you earn more from your website. Usually, before going to Ezoic itself, publishers start with using Ad Tester. It is an application on the Ezoic platform which allows you to test thousands of prospective ad locations at once. Ezoic then automatically assesses the ad combinations that [improve your SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-respond-to-customer-reviews-to-improve-aso-rankings/) and UX metrics and keeps on customizing it with every visit based on your readers’ response. ## 2\. Increasing Size and Location Size and location are among the most important components in determining your click-through rate (CTR). CTR refers to the number of times your ads are clicked over the number of times the same ads are viewed. Usually, experienced web developers strongly recommend placing Adsense ads above the fold and around the content. This is because above-the-fold-ads generally do better than below-the-fold-ads. Usually, new bloggers often disregard link-based ads. These kinds of ads differ from banner advertisements and if used properly, even supplements the CTR of your main AdSense ads. In designing websites intended for generating income via AdSense, an important guide to keeping in mind is the AdSense heatmap. This allows you to choose immediately which themes would look good on your website while making the most out of your ad placements. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FuRpQMw3WdbqyxIxluQ_hYMIwQNmTFS_I0bA6Zz2hQRmApWANYXOkVpGNn054NA6FP49O9MDojqYTgFhHogNQ_Ug07XO0es1Ks6x_uP1wh5ipiT4aJQR43Szbhwd9CCMEzbYmi_e) ## 3\. Making your ads more relevant via AdSense Section Targeting. AdSense has a tool called the crawler which visits your page and tries to extract keywords leading to your website. While this is an automated method that improves your metrics, you can further maximize this tool. Keep in mind that generally, Adsense scans your website, even the parts not always relevant to your target content. This includes your headers, footers, sidebars, and even the comment section whenever available. Section targeting is an option that assists Google Adsense in finding ads that are more relevant to your content, which in turn serves you and your audience better. This strategy will result in a higher CTR and consequently, higher income from your AdSense ads. It works by setting AdSense to focus more on a specific part of your website. To use [section targeting](https://www.besthostinganddesign.com/improve-adsense-ctr/), you simply need to add a pair of HTML tags to enclose the section you want your AdSense to focus on: ……. Conversely, you can mark out which parts of your webpage are to be ignored by Google AdSense. This is usually applied to other parts of your webpage like the headers, footers, and sidebar sections. The HTML tags used are as follows: ……. ## 4\. Optimizing your traffic and location Google AdSense works better with traffic directed from search engines like Google and Bing. On the other hand, direct traffic, which refers to page visits not coming from external links, is not really compatible with Internet-based advertisements. This causes people to complain about the low cost per clicks (CPC) and low income despite millions of impressions per month. The reason behind it is the CPC itself as well as the sources of traffic. You would do well aiming for traffic from countries like the U.K. and the U.S.A. Traffic from these countries offers higher CPC. Also, learning about on-page SEO optimization techniques should help you get more traffic and consequently, more AdSense income. [On-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) is a way for web developers and owners to manage their content in a way that search engines and online bots better understand your content. By focusing on specific parts like Meta title, keywords, heading tags, and links, you can rank higher in search results and bring your content closer to your audience. There are other techniques to increase your traffic such as converting visitors into subscribers by sending updates and working to make them visit your site regularly. Even better, you can also apply push notifications that send an offer or an invite to anyone visiting your site. Push notifications can range from asking visitors to subscribe to bots inquiring if they have specific requirements. Relevant: [To learn more about the best SEO tools and techniques, check my guide here.](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) ## 5\. Add a revenue stream with AdSense for Search There are a lot of ways for Google AdSense to help you monetize your website, and the more ways you utilize means more potential revenue streams for you. One of which is AdSense for Search, which helps improve user navigation for your site. You can simply add tags to match Google’s highly targeted ads with your preferred search results. There are two options available in terms of showing search results: (1) within the blog page and (2) on Google page.  ### Setting up your AdSense for Search Starting up AdSense for Search is easy with the tool’s proprietary interface. It is made even easier with the new AdSense interface. 1. On the AdSense dashboard, click on “My ads.” Then select “Search” from the left toolbar. Next, click on “Custom Search Engines” and “New Custom Search Engine.” 2. Fill in the required fields such as name and keywords 3. In the “What to Search” option, select “Only sites I select” and fill in the complete URLs of the sites you wish to include in the search, including the HTTP:// tags. 4. Next, in the “Search Results and Ad Location,” find the “Search Results” options and choose “On my website using an iframe.” 5. On your WordPress dashboard, create a new page – this is where your search results will be displayed. For easier recall, create a page name with the word “Search” and make sure you have no index tag for that site. The page name, for example, would be yourdomain.com/search 6. In the URL field, paste the new link for your WordPress search page 7. Click “Save and get the code” to generate two codes. The first one is for displaying the search box and the second code is to be added where you plan to show the search results. 8. Paste the second code on the HTML editor of your newly-created Search page. 9. Create a text widget from the updated Search page and include the first AdSense code. ## 6\. Optimizing Text and Image Ads A common thought in the AdSense community is that image ad are better than text ads. To tell the truth, either type of advertisement caters to a specific market and it is still better to utilize both. For fans of image ads, they would usually point out the glaring flaw in using text ads. Dead space refers to the space between the linked title text and the main URL, both of which are clickable. You can actually try this out, try to click the text between the title and the URL, and you can’t. This dead space equates to quite a number of clicks you lose and revenue you should be having. Image ads work simpler, they have no dead space and the larger the image, the larger the link you have. While it would not hurt to use both, maybe users will no longer have the option since Google has notified its AdSense publishers about their plans to [phase out text-only ads](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-to-no-longer-display-text-only-adsense-ads/310471/) in order to promote richer ad formats. ## 7\. Give thought to placement targeting While this technique has been around for a while, only experienced web developers and marketers use it. Placement targeting allows Google AdSense to choose specific placements where they would like to see ads on their page. Users can choose from entire websites or specific subsets of advertisement units in that site, like appearing in selected sections or pages only. When you create a channel, you can add more details about the kinds of ad you prefer and put it for auction in the market. This increases the competition among ad companies and marketers and therefore, increases the ad value on your website. However, for every custom channel, you have to set it up manually. For AdSense users, your website is automatically added to a roster of pages visible to advertisers when they start looking for topics or themes related to your content. ### Creating an Ad Placement 1. Sign in to your AdSense account 2. Click “Ads,” then select “Custom channels.” 3. Select the name of the channel you would like to target. You can also click “New custom channel.” 4. Under the “Targeting” section, tick off the box. 5. Fill in the required fields 6. Click Save. ## 8\. Place Some Ads Between Posts Another common method for maximizing your AdSense revenue is placing ads between successive posts on a page. You can easily set up your ads to work with your existing theme, page background, and palette. Ideally, you can add some seven to ten pictures in between posts. However, keep in mind that you need to consider maintaining a good user experience. Cramping the gaps between posts might end up violating AdSense rules and regulations. ## 9\. Putting up an AdSense Blacklist URL Before, there was an AdSense “blacklist” where you can check the list of advertising agencies who pay very little for each click. However, if you have other sources or even your own list of undesirable advertisers, you can block their URL. You can even block competitor ads from appearing on your site. ### Blocking certain AdSense ads 1. You can right-click on the ad you wish to block and copy the destination URL of that link. However, Google now has a nifty extension called the Google Publisher Toolbar that you can use for quickly addressing issues like this one. 2. Click the extension and click enable on Google AdSense 3. Browse the page where you have the ad you wish to block. The Google Publisher Toolbar extension will automatically pull and highlight each ad on the page. Highlight and copy again the destination link. 4. In your Google AdSense account, search for “Allow and Block ads” and paste the copied URL and click the “Block URLs” button below. ## 10\. Using AdSense Category blocking The New AdSense category allows easier use of the category blocking feature. With a click on the dashboard, you can now view which categories perform well compared to others, as well as those which perform poorly. Usually, you should block categories which have a good impression percentage but an unusually low earning percentage. You can block undesirable ads *en masse* at the product level or at the site level. ### Blocking at the Site Level 1. Sign in to your AdSense account 2. Select “Blocking controls” 3. Choose “Content” 4. Under “Content,” select the domain you want to apply the block on. If the site you wish to block is not included, you can simply add it through AdSense’s site management feature. 5. Select “Manage General categories.” Use the indicated controls in this tab. All changes you make are automatically saved. ### Blocking at the Product Level 1. Sign in to your AdSense account 2. Select “Blocking controls” 3. Click your product. Choose “Content” for AdSense content. 4. Select “Manage General categories” 5. In the page for “General Categories,” choose from included controls for allowing or blocking certain categories. AdSense has close to 500 ad categories. ## 11\. Using AdSense for YouTube For content creators on YouTube, including web developers expanding into video publishing or uploading, you can also monetize all your copyrighted videos via the YouTube publisher program. In a nutshell, what you earn from YouTube depends on the number of views you can generate. With the increasing popularity of video blogging, more and more are turning to monetize their YouTube channels. However, to apply for the Youtube publisher program, the requirements are as follows: 1. At least 1,000 YouTube subscribers 2. At least 4,000 hours of total watch time in the previous twelve months 3. YouTube partnership is easier for original content creators. No content is copied from other sources and having complete ownership over all your videos. 4. You should have an active AdSense account Of course, AdSense for YouTube is focused on placing advertisements before and in between videos on YouTube. Advertisers can use text, image, or videos linked to different sites which are then paid per click. Relevant: [Tips on getting more views on Youtube](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) ## Feel free to experiment If you focus on generating income from monetizing your site through Google AdSense, the tips above should be enough to give you a headstart. However, there are still a lot of possibilities and methods you can use to increase your revenues. You can start by experimenting on the characteristics of your links such as color and font and see if it impacts your CTR. You can also mix and match ad placements on your page using the AdSense heatmap as a reference. Also, try playing around with non-standard types of advertising. A highly successful ad unit in the market today is 300×600 format. It is currently considered non-standard because not all site themes and layouts are designed to carry this format. Also known as a Monster MPU, it can be run on its own but can also be set up as a multi-sized ad used with smaller units like 160×600 300×250. In terms of experimentation, you are even free to try out other monetization schemes, although I strongly recommend Google AdSense in terms of being user-friendly and in reach. You can always track the effects of your changes through analytics tools and by checking your clicks and traffic. Knowing which setups work and does not work will definitely help you develop a streamlined Google AdSense strategy on your website.  I am sure with the beginner-friendly tips listed above, and the techniques you will find yourself, you can definitely generate a significant increase in your traffic and consequently, your revenue. If you found this article helpful, you would like to read the following guides and tips: 1. [Adding Google knowledge panel for your brand](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-knowledge-panel/) 2. [Your guide to doing affiliate marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/) 3. [How to rank and rent a website?](https://alejandrorioja.com/rank-and-rent/) Leave a comment below if you have any topic suggestions. You can also follow me on Facebook [here](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro). --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Important are Product Managers in SaaS Businesses? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/product-managers-in-saas-businesses/ Published: 2021-03-03 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. In the ever-growing world of business, it is hard to find a company or a business that does not use the assistance of SaaS companies to help them in the daily operations of their businesses and a presence of [product manager](https://alejandrorioja.com/) in the [SaaS companies](https://joshfechter.com/best-saas-companies-and-products/) makes the operation much easier, lets take look how. ## How do you Define **SaaS** Businesses? “Software As A Service” or SaaS businesses are the kind of businesses that hosts an application and allows it to be accessed via any device with an internet connection. SaaS is one of the three main branches of cloud computing, the other two being Infrastructure As A Service (IaaS) and Platform As A Service(PaaS). SaaS unlike other forms of cloud computing allows data to be accessed from the internet but for other branches, it is necessary to download an application to access the required data. As the term calls attention to the technology that makes it possible to store, manage and process big data through remote servers that are connected through a network. ## Benefits of SaaS Companies to other Businesses Businesses that invest in Software as a service yield a lot of benefits from it, Some of those benefits are: - Wide Reach: Since SaaS is compatible with platforms that use the web, it reaches and appeals to everyone, because of its compatibility it makes data accessible via any device with an internet connection. - Lower upfront costs: As SaaSs are generally subscription-based and is devoid of any up-front license fee it results in lower initial costs, also the IT infrastructure that runs the software is managed by the SaaS provider there is a drop in fees of the software and hardware maintenance. - Easy upgrades: Usually with an application, the upgrades and updates are managed by the customers themselves whereas, with SaaS, the providers deal with the upgrades and updates as they deploy the upgrades centrally to the hosted application and therefore removing that responsibility off your shoulders. - Quick set-up: As SaaS applications are already installed in the cloud, it reduces the delays which usually lead to a lengthy deployment of the software. - Scalability: SaaS providers offer a variety of options and subscriptions, in short, it is flexible to meet your business needs at any given point of time. ![](https://rankz.io/app/static/media/orderImage/blog/2020/02/04/cloud-computing-pyramid-iaas-paas-saas.png) ## What Are Some of The Best SaaS Companies and Products? After having a look at the benefits of investing in software as a service, let us take a look at some of the best SaaS companies and Products. - Google: Founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin led the company to expand to 137 SaaS products which include softwares for documentation creation, for advertising online and analytics. - Salesforce: one of the most recognizable names in SaaS. They specialize in CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and help you gather data about your customers throughout their interactions with you. - FutureFuel: A student loan repayment company has a digital platform that makes the repayment of loans easier to manage. - KnowBe4: Unlike the typical software as a service, KnowBe4 does not provide any service in particular, they are dedicated to educating their user about issues regarding cybersecurity so that they can detect their problems faster and protect their devices, businesses and personal information. - DropBox (B2B,B2C): Is an online storing service that is powered by cloud computing and is a widely used service that people use to store Business related documents and personal information. ## How are Product Managers Beneficial to SaaS Companies? A product manager is a professional role that responsible for the development of products for the organization and a lot more than that: - They are responsible for market research, assessment and for understanding the needs of customers. - They are responsible for analyzing the success/failure of a product and for assessing the reasons for the same and make necessary changes in the product. - Responsible for facilitating the technical side. - Responsible for managing a large portfolio of solutions and technology. - Responsible for rationalizing applications across markets. - Responsible for prioritizing their work according to corporate strategies - Responsible for educating their users. In short, they play a vital role in the smooth running of organizations and SaaS businesses. ## How do you Become a Product Manager? There are a variety of [Product Management Courses](https://joshfechter.com/best-product-management-courses-online/) one can opt for is they wish to attain the position of a Product Manager. ## What are some of the best Product Management Certification Courses? Product management courses are courses to provide certification in the field of Product Management that are developed by certified authorities to provide knowledge about the understanding and executing the roles and responsibilities of a product manager.  Though there various different certificates pertaining to product management, the best ones helps one develop the core essentials and understanding of the course and the job. SaaS products require certain specific strategies for which there are various courses too. Here is a list of product management courses that be of use to a seasoned professional or a newcomer in the field. - Digital Product Management Courses by the University of Virginia (CourseEra):  In a partnership with CourseEra, The University of Virginia offers a digital management course that is tailored to meet the needs of a SaaS company. Price: Free - Product Management Certificate by Cornell University: Cornell University is one of the most reputed university and as part of their academic training, they offer a product management course that teaches students the core fundamentals of product management. Price: $1,260 – $9000 - Product Management Certificate by UC Berkley: As one of the top-ranking universities in the US, as an addition to the other the programs they offer they also have a professional product management course through which the students learn about the techniques and tools used in product management. Price: $7,245 - Product Management in Person Training by 280 group: 280 is a product management training and consulting firm that has been helping various companies with their product development and as a part of their training, they train their trainees in person about the fundamentals of product management so that they know everything possible about product managing. Price: $1,995 – $2995 - Professional Personal Development courses: Business by Stanford University: As a part of their professional development program, they offer business courses in a variety of fields including product management. Price: It depends on the course you take. Looking to get a job as a PM? Try [my Angellist script to apply to a lot of jobs](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-apply-to-a-lot-of-jobs-on-angellist-script/). --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Guide to Becoming an Entrepreneur: Useful Tips Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-an-entrepreneur/ Published: 2021-02-17 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. I started my journey by [learning](https://thetab.com/us/ucla/2017/07/19/meet-alejandro-rioja-bruin-by-day-entrepreneur-by-night-2856) what it means to run a business in the US and applying it to start Flux Ventures. This was then followed by my ventures as a [portable charger inventor](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers), a [software and design firm owner](http://flux.la/), [a social marketing channel](http://youngslacker.com/), and a [venture capital fund owner](https://www.everipedia.com/flux-capital/). My goal is to build my company inspired by the efforts of the [Virgin Group](https://www.virgin.com/)’s [Richard Branson](https://www.everipedia.com/Richard_Branson/). Simply put, I want to create [Flux Ventures](https://alejandrorioja.com/flux-ventures/), the mother company of all these projects, into a force of itself where each company under this one becomes a leader in their market. In this article, I’ll show you how you can take your own steps into becoming an entrepreneur like me. We’ll discuss what it means to be one too. Now, before we can get into that, watch this short video on why you should start your own business. ## Who is an Entrepreneur? ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/BnItdIqy-_vzThoLngAqv_1RjvFHzcnlrajDgi3MhJvXrauJd7xGfup2Dvb4itILEDMD6YgxoaodrEJRqAzjKyLUnIY8prMsRw9ggkAiXOZ65QxtekRJzgVdNaVXgN77jQ12RKHi) According to [Investopedia](https://www.investopedia.com/), the word “[entrepreneur](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/entrepreneur.asp)” is a title given to a person who has created his own business. Other labels include “an innovator of new business ideas, products or procedures.” They can also own startups. Simply put, this is a person who has braved through various risks to bring a real business idea. After passing through those risks, the business idea flourishes to get back the time, resources, and energy. The word’s origin can be traced from the French word entreprende. This means “to undertake.” It was late in the 20th century where people sat down and incorporated the idea into their businesses. Joseph Schumpeter, Frank Knight, and Israel Kirzner were the people Investopedia identified as the founders of the term.  Kirzner defined it as a “process that led to the discovery.” Meanwhile, Schumpeter said that they made new ideas in exchange for profit. Knight defined them as those who caused the risky premiums found in financial markets and carried its uncertainty. ## How to be an entrepreneur? After we have learned what an entrepreneur is, let us explore how to become one ourselves. All-in-all there are eight steps to become one. ### 1\. Get in the right mindset What does it mean to get into the right mindset? Simply put, a mindset is a set of beliefs that a person follows throughout their lives. If you want to become an entrepreneur, here are eight tips to help you clear and refocus your mind:  #### Change your mindset about how you want your life to be When it comes to starting a business, you would have to think about how you want to live your life. Starting a business that you would not put your heart and soul into can be the cause of failure. The answer to the question “How do I want my life to be?” should be on your mind while you keep the business running. #### Realize the power you can wield Every person has a level of inner strength that they can draw from life during  ups and downs. This can stem from getting rid of beliefs that negate your growth. Remember to choose the limits to avoid and keep your passion burning inside you.  #### Shift your mind towards producing higher quality instead of greater quantity Opting to invest your time, resources, and energy to produce quality over quantity is good. It will help you manage these wisely, and help you concentrate fully on the path you want your business can take.  A possible example is how you want to treat your customers. If you prioritize creating a company that builds meaningful connections with them, this will help you naturally attract more customers in the long run. #### Value others as much as yourself I have mentioned as an example that making meaningful connections with customers can help you and your business grow in the future. Getting rid of your self-centeredness will help you avoid losing sight of what your customers want.  #### Meditate on your worth Creating your worth is centered towards rejecting your “woe is me” mentality. This cannot be garnered alone due to your credibility, education, and experience. This mentality can only stem from how you interact with others to project how you want others to view you. Following this mentality will help you stand out with other competitors, and this will also improve how other people see your business. #### Create big steps and always “take it to the next level” “Taking to the next level” is a phrase associated with taking bold actions as part of your growth as a person. This can also be applied when making decisions for your business. Do take note that these [bold actions should be backed up](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/) with an open mindset. As Entrepreneur puts it, keeping steadfast towards old-fashioned thoughts, fears, and beliefs will hold you and your business back. #### Accept failure As human beings, we are not perfect, and we can make mistakes from time to time. These mistakes can be in your business. It is fine to express fears and doubts about your company’s growth, but making it all seem negative is what you should avoid. Moving on after a mistake is one of the biggest challenges in keeping a business afloat. This includes making your customers feel better that the company will come back and steadfast in keeping your original goals as a business in mind.  #### Learn to answer the question “why” No matter the situation, you should always remember the previous points and the answer to the question “why.” This includes a question about whether you are fulfilled by how they are doing. Answering this question is the step that can help a person navigate through their business’ ups and downs. Doing this will also help you and your company save face too, and this should be backed up with the right actions. ### 2\. Find The right business After shifting to a more positive and productive mindset, the next step when getting a business started is to choose which company you want to create. There are three paths you can go through. #### Start a business out of something you already know  This type of business centers on any skill you are knowledgeable in before you created your business. It can be centered on your past job, current hobby, or a picked-up skill. #### Start a business out of how other people do it  We encounter businesses in our daily lives. From getting food delivered to our home to asking a professional to fix our broken toilets, these are possible business ideas that you can use. If you decide to make another business idea into your own, be sure that you are not imitating the entire idea. Remember that you have to stand out against your competitors, and this is important. #### Start a business out of solving a common need  Once you have that mindset of thinking about others, one of the things you might encounter is seeing a need around your local community. For example, you see a greater need to sanitize homes if cleaning materials are inaccessible. If you want to implement a business idea towards solving this need, consider fulfilling this need can garner you the highest risk. Unlike the first two business approaches, putting up this together will require you to have evidence of the need before investing in your business. ### 3\. Plan it carefully  Once you have figured out what kind of business you would want to put up, the next step is to research how you want to run your business and set it up.  #### Learn more about your business idea  Creating the foundations for your business includes learning how to put up the business. This includes training yourself through face-to-face or online classes. You would also have to learn how to apply for permits before setting up shop. You can learn more about how to make your idea real based on existing competitors. This includes feedback from the products and services they provide. Applying some of their excellent ideas and learning from their mistakes can help set you up for your success. #### Think about future trends There are two [definitions](https://marketbusinessnews.com/financial-glossary/trend/) of the word “trend.” It can either mean the direction of where something is going or a popular topic among a certain group of people. When putting up your business, keeping it open can help you gravitate your intended audience towards you due to a trend you are bringing into the market. Aside from that, you would have to keep up with the trends your fellow competitors are doing. Keeping ahead of these trends include a continuous research project within your industry and market. Doing this will help you adapt to your current environment and survive various hurdles you may encounter. #### Check what is your product-market fit ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/lfGa5sQLyOZu3kFm28EWxH_UO0aBqxVC57a4RWuurul_ccNE4VQOwfEsqB_OICec2-6la-5AAWA2MjVwrCi0nFzu5jmMvxzQzIfJz2i9bQ4fk0zg1OJVGM2dzW_yU_dRffiy-2Ls) The term “product-market fit” is defined as the balance between your company’s value, customers, and distribution. Keeping this together involves the following steps: - **Check who are your possible customers** Let it sink in that your [business may not be able to satisfy everyone](https://alejandrorioja.com/psychology-tricks-marketing-strategy/) once you open your doors. When starting a business, you should focus on a particular market you know you would be able to help and earn a sizable profit. Researching your possible customers involves [market segmentation](https://www.qualtrics.com/experience-management/brand/what-is-market-segmentation/). This includes not only learning their demographics but to learn their values and shopping patterns. It will help you promote your product to a wider audience later on. - **Aim to dominate in only one industry** When starting a company, you should avoid branching out too early. HubSpot advises against this due to the high risk and lower chance of success.  With that in mind, choose which industry you want your business to aim for the top. Only after surpassing this goal should you start touching other sectors. Doing this can help make the transition easy due to the image you have created through your first venture. - **Identify what makes your company stand out** Being unique in your industry is the name of the game. This will make it easier to market your product or service later on, but it can also help everyone working for you. They are the reason why your business exists and why it is different. Doing this involves learning how to outperform your competitors. Aside from that, this can be paired with how to keep your customers on their toes. Finally, you should keep your company relevant to the general public concerning your growth path. - **Keep track of your product-market fit** For this step, you should make sure to keep your total addressable market (TAM) measurable. This can be made by multiplying the average revenue per user and the number of potential customers. Once you have figured out the result, check how much of that is based on your current customers. You should aim to keep it close to 100%. #### Test your business idea Now that you have learned the foundations of your business idea, it is time to test it. Simply put, it is getting advice from fellow entrepreneurs to your future customers about your business idea. This can be done informally through face-to-face interviews, online surveys, or pre-launch events. After testing your idea, make sure to use the feedback to refine your design. You can then check again after refining. Before diving into interviews or pre-launch events, you should create a user flow first. Let us take my [Flux Chargers](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers), a portable charger, as an example. Creating a user flow would include the following: 1. Order Flux Chargers 2. Read about the creators of Flux Chargers 3. Contact the creators of Flux Chargers After that, I would need to give more specifics to perform each action in the customer’s viewpoint while answering the [following questions](https://rubygarage.org/blog/how-to-build-a-minimum-viable-product): 1. Which actions do I want my customers to accomplish right away? 2. What are the other features that I can offer to my customers? If I were to specify the actions that the customer needs to do if they want to “order a Flux Charger,” I would list the following actions where the first item is the most important and the last item is the least: 1. Create an order form for the customer to fill in their payment and shipping information. 2. View samples of the product on the product page 3. Easy-to-use order form design 4. Website design for the product page Once you have finished your user flow, you should use it when asking other people about your product or service before creating and selling it. ### 4\. Look into funding  Before executing any part of your business plan, make sure you have enough money to first sustain your idea. Remember that your mindset should be in the “quality over quantity,” meaning that you should invest in the foundations that can establish high-quality services. One of the essential foundations is to seek outside funding for your business. This includes investing in a financial management system. Aside from that, you should count the costs of every business decision you would make. As an example, let’s think about which type of business you are about to start. If you are aiming for a lifestyle business, you would need a small startup fund. You would need more than that for a franchise. Finally, a high-tech company from the get-go would require a massive startup cost. ### 5\. Meet other business owners To seek support for you and your business, you would have to create a network within your chosen industry. This is called networking. Here are several tips that you can use: 1. Learn and visit various business events: Every year, there are a lot of business events happening locally and around the world. Past events include [99U](http://conference.99u.com/), [Pubcon](http://pubcon.com/), and [Dreamforce](http://www.salesforce.com/dreamforce/DF14/). Check for various events that are organized by local business groups to a large multinational company. 2. Set a goal before coming into one: Before booking a ticket to each event, make sure to learn which activity you would like to participate in. Decide whether to attend the event as a sponsor or a guest. Finally, learn who is attending. 3. Create a networking schedule while off work: Networking does not include talking to fellow entrepreneurs. Once you head out after work, you can use this time to talk to other people. [Business Know-How](https://www.businessknowhow.com/) suggests promoting your business through your local schools. 4. Realize your own worth: Aside from getting your own mindset on how you are truly worth as a person, this advice also applies to your own business. Creating your business’ worth includes creating an [elevator pitch](https://www.thebalancecareers.com/elevator-speech-examples-and-writing-tips-2061976). Being able to deliver this will help you market it in various networking events. 5. Revisit how to socialize properly: Most of these events would involve you to step outside your comfort zone, especially if you are introverted. Meeting other people involves finding a possible group, relaying a few icebreakers, and promoting your business. 6. Keep all your connections going: Once you gathered enough rapport through various networking events, the next step is to make use of those connections to empower your business, your needs, and your recipient’s needs. There are three attitudes to avoid when maintaining these kinds of relationships. First, avoid speaking negatively to the former and current competition. Maintain a constant give-and-take relationship, and finally, do not hesitate to ask for help from your relationships.  Relevant: [All you need to know about relationship marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/) ### 6\. Sell your product or service Once you open your business, you should learn how to market your product. Here are four tips that you can use: - **Differentiate between “benefits” and “features”** According to [Inc.com](https://www.inc.com/geoffrey-james/6-ways-to-convince-customers-to-buy.html), they define a “benefit” that a product or service has is something of value that a customer sees in it. Meanwhile, if you say something is a “feature” for a product or service, it means that it is what the product or service can do. - **Make use of strong, simple words** Using a vocabulary composed of strong, simple words would help make it easier for customers to understand how to use your product or service in their lives. Avoiding technical jargon is also included in this rule. To appeal to a wider audience, you should use terms that anyone, regardless of their occupation and education, can understand. Aside from that, don’t pepper your future customers with too much of your benefits. They should only know one or two at the most. - **Show definite proof of your benefits** Remember that you would have to show your product or service to your customer along with at most one or two benefits. For this tip, you must show real-life evidence that it is beneficial for your customer. Use this same rule when advertising your company to your customers. This will be especially helpful if you want to promote your products or services as a group. ### 7\. Invest in marketing As with all business plans, an approach to attract old and new customers is by having a [marketing scheme in place](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/). Here are the steps on how you can create one, according to [Wordstream](https://www.wordstream.com/): #### Create a great story about your product or service Avoid talking about your product and how it is made. Focus solely on where your product or services can fit in your customer’s life. This includes highlighting their benefits, features, and facts. Based on this information, create a story around them to pique your customer’s interest wholly. Doing this will help them remember you while increasing your chances of being able to sell to them. #### Avoid working against your brand perception How your customers see you can be turned to your advantage by making them buy your products and avail your services more. When executed correctly, you can be seen as a staying force in the ever-changing market. #### Think outside your competitor’s heads Thinking and performing outside your competitors’ boxes will ensure your legacy in the market. You can get unique ideas from how brands outside your industry invest in making their products more popular in the public eye.  #### Consistently show your product to your customers Being consistent means that you are a regular presence around the market. This includes ingredient shortages or Thanksgiving trips. My advice in keeping your product or service relevant year-round is to [base your marketing ploy](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/) around a specific piece of current news.  Doing this will help your customers feel at ease, depending on your delivery, on how you are still open, and are here to stay. #### Put your name on your product This tip works especially if you have loads of competitors in the market.  The goal in choosing a brand name is to make your product unique and easy to remember. Doing this will help make it easier for your customers to find you too. #### Promise something you can deliver Remember that your product needs a benefit. When I said it needs a benefit, it’s not just words on the paper or spoken through a Facebook ad. This has to appear in your product. Not being able to prove your point will reduce your supporters. This can also harm your chances of being able to sell and make a profit. Make sure to word your promise in an easy-to-remember way! Doing this will help you create buzz around your products. The more interested they are, the more you can harness your marketing strategy in your favor.  ### 8\. Accept mistakes and move on  Failure may seem like a bad thing if you encounter it while running your business. However, being able to bounce back quickly is a sign that you have learned your lesson. Showing this in your campaign will help your customers feel at ease. Aside from that, admitting that you made a mistake means that you are sincere in your growth.  ### 9\. Rinse and repeat One of the hardest things you would have to do as a startup owner is to keep your business running. Doing this will involve either venturing into other markets and opportunities, like what I did, or become a market leader in where you are. You can also aim for both! Whichever route you would take, make sure it is grounded on your progressive, open-minded, and passionate mindset. Create a solid minimum viable product (MVP) and a business plan around it. Test your idea multiple times. Execute your plan. You should repeat these steps as much as possible and focus on bringing a positive benefit to your customers and the greater world around you. ## Wrapping up! In this article, I helped you learn how to start your startup. This starts with defining what an “entrepreneur” is. This is then followed by a series of steps on how you can. The first step involves removing any negative mindset and replacing it with one that promotes positive, passionate growth within you and your business. After that, it involves learning how to create one. Finally, you would create a plan, test it, and execute it. I sincerely hope that this helped you with your future business plans. Did this inspire you to start your own business? Read these articles to help you learn more: - [What is green marketing?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-green-marketing/)  - [Affiliate marketing programs you can opt for](https://alejandrorioja.com/10-best-affiliate-marketing-programs/)  - [Understanding CPA marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-cpa-marketing/)  Drop a comment below on what you think about this guide. Your suggestions and feedback are always welcome. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What To Do If You Only Have $100 For Marketing (Facebook Ad Budget) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/100-bucks-facebook-ad-budget/ Published: 2021-01-19 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: I asked Anthony to write a post on doing marketing with a small budget and see what’s possible if you only have $100 to promote your brand/product on Facebook. **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Post written by: Anthony Tisara ([want to write here?](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/)) Alejandro: This topic is one my favorites because it is so relatable to so many starting entrepreneurs. I still remember the days [when I used to sell my products in the street](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) to get additional marketing dollars. The early days are probably the hardest because there’s limited funds (but unlimited will!). I asked Anthony to write a post on doing marketing with a small budget and see what’s possible if you only have $100 to promote your brand/product on Facebook. Notice how he not only gives a clear advice but also backs it up with a real case study. Now, let’s hear it from Anthony… Would you be interested in learning about an effective strategy that can be used to bring your business highly qualified leads with only $100 dollars in marketing? How about if I show you a complete breakdown of the strategy I used for one of my clients and share the exact results we achieved with $100? The strategy I used involved **Facebook Advertising**. I can’t tell you how many business owners I’ve run into that overlook the effective, and extremely cheap marketing vehicle known as Facebook advertising. Worse yet, many of them just straight up ignore Facebook because they clicked ‘Boost Post’ once and didn’t automatically generate new business. ## **The Art of Effective Facebook Advertising** Thanks to Facebook’s scary accurate ability to target audiences and deliver ads, direct response [marketing strategies](https://www.mybizniche.com/blog/social-media-marketing-and-roi/) have made the platform one of the cost efficient lead generation tools available to marketers when they approach it correctly. Think of your Facebook ads like a billboard on one of the busiest highways in the world. If you can create a strong irresistible offer for your target then put that over an eye-catching design to interrupt the potential customer from mindlessly scrolling on Facebook then you can run a Facebook Advertising campaign that works. ### **Real Client Example:** I’m going to break down a small budget campaign that I recently ran for a local Pilates studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. My client’s Pilates business does extremely well in the winter but since most of her business comes from snowbirds who leave in the summer, she’s left with a much smaller client base during this time. Facebook was clearly the best option for her to quickly generate new business from residents who live in Scottsdale year round without breaking the bank on a large marketing budget. I’ll start with my targeting…Who would be the best market to show my ads to? I ended up creating an audience with the following requirement. - Must live within a seven mile radius of the Pilates studio. - Must be a woman between the ages of 24-55. - Must Be interested in Fitness and wellness or Pilates. ### **The Ad** So now we have a solid audience to target, but how am I going to get their attention? With the following ad below… ![facebook ad example](/images/posts/inline/a09084cd-ad.png) “Hey Pilates lovers in Scottsdale!” This simple but effective opening copy allows me to speak directly to my audience in their timeline and will increase the chance that they’ll stop scrolling. Then I hit them with my offer. Since I know everyone seeing this ad is interested in fitness or Pilates, 3 free classes will sound like a sweet deal for them. What will 3 free Pilates classes cost them? Only their name, email and phone number so my client can contact them and schedule their classes. All they need to do is click ‘SIGN UP’ and the user will be taken to a lead capture form. In this case, I used a Facebook lead generation card, which can be made in just a few minutes on Facebook. This tool will even auto populate the user’s information. Now my client can easily reach out to leads schedule their trial classes. From then on, the goal is to provide high quality experience with the goal of converting them into a monthly membership. ### **The Results** The average cost per lead on this campaign consistently sits around $7. So after putting $100 into this campaign, We had received 14 highly qualified leads who want to experience my client’s business. Not bad for $100 dollars right? If you’re willing to put in the time and energy it takes to learn how to effectively run a Facebook marketing campaign, you can see some serious results with just $100. Learn more about marketing on a budget: - [How to sell anything to anyone](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) (like ice to an eskimo) - [From the Pros: How to go viral on Facebook](https://futuresharks.com/go-viral-facebook-goubtube/) - [How to get free traffic to your site using SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Build a Profitable Business. Flux Chargers story: From street selling to $110k/mo and 91 countries Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/ Published: 2021-01-12 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, home TL;DR: Fast forward 18 months later, our eCommerce brand grew to reach customers in over 90 countries and generate over $100k/month in sales. I’ve learned a lot during this period, especially in the last 6 months when growth really started happening so I wanted to share some of those lessons with you. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. #### Bottom line Creating a profitable business lies in selling a product or service that people are willing to pay for. Discover a problem that needs a solution, and create a brand that makes customers understand the quality and benefits that your product offers. After you’re at this point, you need to pay attention to your customers by impressing them, do a lot of press marketing, have a good website, develop relationships with the customers beyond the end of the purchase process, use the right tools, test and improve. Pay attention to your competitors as well and build strong networks just stay on top of it! When I started [Flux Chargers](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/) in the Summer of 2015 at StartupUCLA, I was [selling our product in the streets of Santa Monica](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything/) during the weekends making just a few bucks per day. Online sales were hard to come by. Fast forward 18 months later, our eCommerce brand grew to reach customers in over 90 countries and generate over $100k/month in sales. I’ve learned a lot during this period, especially in the last 6 months when growth really started happening so I wanted to share some of those lessons with you. (Although I am drawing these lessons from my ecommerce business, most of the principles apply for any type of business.) If you would like me to be your coach and guide you through the process, sign up to one on one consultation here: - [ Sale Product on sale ![30 Min Consultation](/images/posts/inline/10aa3a67-30-min-seo-consultation.png) 30 Min Consultation ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. Rated **4.73** out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=4&lang=en&add-to-cart=23495) Or just [send me a message on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro)! ## First you need the product (and the niche) In order to create a profitable business, you need to sell a product or service that people want and will pay for. Period. To find the product, you need to keep an eye out for any emerging trends by: 1. Taking a closer look at what types of ads you are being shown on Facebook and Instagram. 2. Going through your daily routine, identifying any problems that you run into (at home, at work), and trying to come up with potential solutions. 3. Asking other people what problems they are experiencing. Pro tip: Try finding people that work or are related to an industry that you have experience in. 4. Checking [Google Trends](https://www.google.com/trends/), which will also allow you to understand if a product’s interest is growing, stagnant or fading. You can identify potential customers by running Facebook or Google ads to your site and creating a mock-up product (or MVP) to gauge interest. If enough people sign up (or pre-order), you have a potential winner. Once you have candidate products, in the case of it being a physical product, contact manufacturers and get quotes. Most manufacturers have MOQs (minimum order quantities) so make sure you understand the initial investment that is required. Don’t forget to include estimates for shipping, handling and marketing. For software products, the costs at the beginning are development and marketing. Make sure you budget accordingly and also set up a realistic timeline. If you want more ideas, I wrote a more in-depth [niche finding strategy](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_us_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7) in my Huffington Post blog. Sign up here to get my free Ebook on how to build a profitable business! It is certainly not easy to come by your own Golden goose idea. Those types of ideas are characterized by a lot of customers and can hold a high price on the market. The first company that comes to mind when mentioning a Golden goose idea is Apple. Millions of people around the world are willing to pay thousands of dollars for premium products because of the brand strength that Apple has. Why are these Golden Goose ideas so important? It’s because the entrepreneurs managed to successfully identify and respond to big customers’ problems. Giving them a good solution for something that is a problem, creates a Golden Goose idea.  Other than Apple, a good example for identifying and responding to problems that the customers are facing is “[Life after college](http://lifeaftercollege.org/)” by Jenny Blake. Any person that graduated from college can understand how frustrating and confusing life can be when you’re not sure how to choose what comes next. Jenny Blake saw that young adults have a big problem finding their path after they graduated, so she created a “Career Pathfinder” course which costs almost $1000. The product is used by a lot of customers, and it holds a high price on the market- both identifiers for a Golden Goose idea.  ## You have your product and target customer. Now you need the brand and the message Creating a brand allows your customers to have a name to reference. It also allows your products to carry a much higher price point. A brand helps the customer understand the quality and benefits expected from your company. Want a pursue that everyone will envy? Pick Louis Vuitton. Looking for easy to use technology? Check out Apple. Since branding is so important, a good amount of thought must go into it to ensure that you create the right message and expectation from the get go. Steps to create a powerful brand: 1. Pick a name that is short and memorable to help you achieve word-of-mouth marketing. (Ideally, also check that the social media accounts @yourcompanyname are not taken) 2. Choose the [brand colors that align with your target demographic and sector](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-the-color-shape-font-of-your-logo-portrays-about-your-company-infographic/) (i.e. for beauty products, lighter colors work well; for tech, darker shades tend to do the trick). 3. Craft the right message (i.e. Nike’s “Just do it”). A good message will resonate with your target audience. It shall use the language that your target customers use to inspire them to take action and believe in your company. The longer you stick to your message the easier it will be for your customers to remember it and be persuaded by them (i.e. “15 minutes could save you…”) ## Everything described above was basic, and is what 98% of the companies do. Here’s how you can actually beat them and create a profitable business. ### Find profitable and unique customer acquisition channels > *Where do your prospective customers hang out?* This should be the guiding question to keep in mind when you decide where to allocate your marketing resources. > *Where do your prospective customers hang out that my competition hasn’t discovered or mastered yet? Are there any other profitable demographics that my competition is not targeting?* These are even better questions. This is where the opportunity lies. If you’re marketing to college students, Facebook ads and Instagram shoutouts can help (everyone does this). But don’t neglect TEDx talks, campus fairs, college blogs, and other forms of guerilla marketing. The key here is to do what other players aren’t doing (obviously while still keeping in mind the cost vs. benefit obtained). Here is what we did for Flux Chargers: 1. We noticed that most people started their power bank purchase with a Google search with keywords like “portable chargers”, “portable iphone charger”, etc. 2. Like many people they only clicked on the first few results and made a decision from there. 3. Luckily for us, the first 10 results on Google were compilations of various portable chargers. So we reached out to the sites that created the lists. Don’t get discouraged, it took a few emails until we got a response from them. 4. Once we got into those sites, we very easily increased our traffic and sales by 5x. ### Wow your customers There is nothing better than word of mouth when it comes to marketing. Each of the first few hundred customers that bought a [portable charger](https://www.amazon.com/sp?seller=A2DVX2S8JHC5W6) received a handwritten note from us. While this was time consuming, every time a customer tweeted about our thank you letter our reach grew and our brand solidified. ### Do a ton of [press marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/product-category/press/) Getting featured on big publications not only gives you credibility but can also lead to massive amounts of revenue. For instance, we got Flux Chargers [listed as #1 on Digital Trends](http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/best-portable-battery-chargers/). This mention alone brings us $30-50k in revenue per month. Another side benefit of press is that it builds powerful backlinks to your site which will [increase the SEO of your site](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-seo-tips/) quite dramatically, allowing you to rank higher for harder keywords.  At my marketing agency, [Flux.LA](http://flux.la), we specialize in getting out clients featured on sites like Future Sharks, So Influential, CryptoTimes and more. If you are looking for press, then [contact me](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro). ### Actually have a good product (and website) that speaks for itself People make a decision about how they feel about your company within just a few seconds of landing on your site. Make sure that feeling is positive and of trust. Invest a lot of time and effort into making a site that is professional and that loads quickly. At [Flux](http://flux.la), we spent quite a lot of time and effort making sure the site was crisp and that it was designed well enough to generate leads.  More importantly, make sure your product or service **over-**delivers on its value proposition. Whether it is through an unexpected feature, unbeatable unboxing experience or excellent after-purchase customer support, if you are planning to create a long-lasting profitable brand, your product must be stellar. ### The relationship with your customer should not end with the purchase It is much easier (and cheaper) to sell to an existing customer than it is to acquire a new one. Coach your customers so they go from regular customers to loyal fans. You can do this through webinars, seminars, email campaigns, etc. ### What gets measured, gets improved. (Test as much as you can) You can only improve what you measure. If you want to decrease your site’s bounce rate or increase conversions, you first need to know what your baseline is. Use tools like [Optimizely](https://www.optimizely.com/) to run different versions of your pages to see which ones get the most engagement. Try using different words on your sales copy and Facebook posts and analyze if that brings any extra revenue.   What any ecommerce store should measure is number of visitors per month (per day), CAC (customer acquisition cost), conversion rates, profit margins and revenue. ### Use the right tools (don’t be afraid to pay for some of them) Have you seen the difference between a professional craftsman and an amateur one? If you visit their shops, they are quite different. One of them has a limited toolset while the other one has the right tool for each material he is working on. This not only [improves his performance but also drastically influences the quality of his output](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-be-productive/). Every time you bring a new tool to your toolbox, you free up your time and increase your output capacity. In the early days of the platform, you need tools for email marketing, social media management, team communication, quick prototyping and more. Before you try to do anything manually, search the web to see if there are any scripts or programs that can help you achieve what you need. Lastly, don’t be afraid to pay for the tools that you use. First, this ensures that the developers behind it have something to eat and can keep building more features that benefit you. Second, it will probably give you a higher ROI. ### Encourage your product/service recommendations Whenever you’re interested in a certain product, you go online and check what people have experienced so far in regards to the product and its characteristics. It’s just the way it is. That’s why, you should encourage recommendations and reviews. Start with asking your already satisfied customers, and even friends and family to “spread the word” when it comes to their customer experience with your product.  Online reviews and testimonials can make a significant difference when it comes to building a loyal and profitable business. Moreover, you can include these positive testimonials in your newsletter, share them on social media platforms, or use them in another way to market the good experiences connected to your product. ### Build a support network You don’t have to do it all alone! Remember that there is a time when your support network can really put you in front of your competitors. I personally recommend the following ways in which you can build a good support network: 1. Engage with the business community- be in touch with what’s happening in your industry or niche. And don’t be a mere observer, engage with it. Talk with colleagues, share ideas, collaborate. Sometimes, the Golden Goose ideas are born via these business community networking practices.  2. Use expert support when needed- at times, all of us need some support in fields we are not knowledgeable or experienced enough in. Recognize when an expert support is needed, and seek it. Having somebody who knows what they’re doing in your corner can really kick-start your idea in the right direction. 3. Network, network, network- as I previously mentioned, always include your customers’ testimonials in your social media platforms. Go to meetings, seminars from the industry that are relevant to you. Create a blog relevant to the work you do. Be social overall with people, whether they’re customers, or competitors. Sometimes, good things can come out of networking.  ### Out-learn, out-work your competition This is perhaps the key to anything in life. The job of entrepreneur is to go learn the skills that he or she is currently lacking. A lot of people are fearful and act fearful because they say “I don’t know how to do this”. Not familiar with SEO? Google it and learn it. Not sure how to do Instagram Marketing? Google it and learn it. Never written sales copy? Google it and learn it. Unfortunately there is not one single website or video that can teach all you need to know. Over the years I’ve found the following strategies very helpful. **Join mastermind groups on facebook (or in real life)** Who said you had to go through the entrepreneurial journey alone? There are a lot of people that have gone through the same hardships as you that are willing to help you out. Talk to colleagues or form your own group of entrepreneurs, I am sure you at least know a handful of them personally. Every tip you learn from them can save you months of learning and a lot of money. I created a site called [Future Sharks](http://futuresharks.com), where I pick the brains of various social media influencers, young entrepreneurs and leaders and ask them what their secrets are. You should check it out.  **Read books or blogs and act on them right away** I prefer to do this and act of the new knowledge immediately. That means that if I am looking to learn about SEO, I open up the first link and as I read through the article I try to follow along while I work on my site. ## Bottom line Creating a profitable business is hard, but not impossible. A profitable business is at the intersection between a great brand, a great product and proper marketing. The people that put in the time to study the game and become knowledgeable will have a better shot than the people who don’t. The learning process is arduous and will take time but the benefits are priceless. Acting on the acquired knowledge and focusing on the right metrics is what will take your company from average to good to great. Any company should always be re-evaluating their efforts and trying to find new growth opportunities. Hope you are excited for this wonderful journey of becoming an entrepreneur! **What type of business are you working on? Let me know in the comments! I would like to help you if I can!** Also, if you are looking to take your business to the next level, hire me as your ecommerce and marketing coach. To get started, just [send me a message](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-your-business/). --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Sponsored Blog Posts: The Ultimate Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/sponsored-blog-posts/ Published: 2021-01-09 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: In fact, a survey in 2018 revealed that more than 20% of 18-34 year old individuals actually made an expensive purchase when they saw influencer endorsement of the item in question. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. We are living in a time where consumers are smart and conscious about the decisions they make. Whether it’s a beauty cream or a [brand new portable charger](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers), consumers want to know whether the money they are spending is going to be worthwhile or not. And it’s hard to [convince to consumers to buy](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) with conventional marketing tactics. Today, consumers will most likely buy if they read about a product or service on a blog they trust or if an influencer they believe in encourages them to do so.   In fact, a [survey](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1VtOsQMlLMtoaUrBEkFkUYq-dvT56dnN27EsPahf1CAs/edit#gid=1225498629) in 2018 revealed that more than 20% of 18-34 year old individuals actually made an expensive purchase when they saw influencer endorsement of the item in question. A Facebook Ad or a nice Instagram post alone is not enough anymore to create shoppers into buyers. Therefore, digital marketers are focusing on creating trust. And they do this through variety of ways like creating “social proof” or using “testimonials and ratings”.  Another popular way of gaining trust is through sponsored posts or guest blogging.  As a side note, here’s how you can get brands to pay you to post content ## The difference between sponsored and “normal” guest posts Sponsored posts are blog posts that you write and then have them posted on blogs and websites your target audience is interested in. But there’s a catch – sponsored posts come with fee. Blogs accepting sponsored posts ask for a fee to publish your article. **The fee for a sponsored post can range from $50 to $5000**. The bigger the blog and larger the audience, the higher the cost. The key to successful sponsored posts is that it needs to be great content. That’s what [Neil Patel believes in](https://neilpatel.com/blog/guide-to-online-branding-1/). To create brand authority online, Neil suggests that the sponsored post that you write should in fact have content that is even better than the one you have on your own blog. Sponsored posts have always been a darling of digital marketers for a long time. They help in increasing a brand’s exposure online and being posted on target audience preferred blogs, it creates trust and [authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/) as well. But one must ask – what are the benefits and are they worth the cost? And even if the fee is not the issue, how do you choose the right blogs and website is?  What does Google have to say about sponsored posts? These are some of the questions you need answers for. Luckily for you, you are at the right place on the internet – So let’s dig in. ## 3 Reasons to Use Sponsored Posts Here are few of the reasons why you need to consider sponsored posts in your digital marketing plan: #### **1) Speaking about yourself in a more promotional way:** When you make a sponsored post, you pay a blog or website to publish content that will highlight your product or service benefits. You can use promotional tone, describe what you are selling and even lead readers to your landing page. It’s a win-win situation as you are not only promoting yourself but also get to access confirmed readers that are [genuinely interested in what you are selling](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). As the oldest rule of thumb in conversion optimization states – if your website brings in more targeted traffic in, there is greater chance that your conversion rate will go up. And with sponsored posts, you can do just that. #### **2) Linking to landing pages/money pages:** One of the key ingredients of sponsored posts is using a URL that leads to your preferred landing page. Landing pages are web pages where you want your customers to arrive when they interact with one of the many advertising touchpoints online. Like Facebook Ads, Google AdWords campaign or a sponsored post. The aim of having landing pages is to encourage visitors that are coming from your promotional activities to become your customers. When you make a sponsored post – you are allowed one link that can be directed to a landing page of your choosing. The best part about sponsored post is that you are posting your content on a site where your target audience is reading content on your niche passionately. So, having your landing pages linked to it gives you an opportunity to convert them into customers. #### **3) It’s way faster:** Compared to traditional guest blogging, sponsored posts are way faster and efficient. When you go online finding good places to post your content online, you will end up spending a lot of time searching for blogs that accept posts, writing emails to them and what not. But with sponsored posts, its way quicker. You target websites and blogs where your key audiences are visiting and engaging with content more vigorously. Once you choose the sites where you want to post your content, you can check their sponsored post policies, ask them their fee and have it published. That’s all there is to it. ## How to choose blogs for sponsored posts First things first, you need to find good blogs where you can post your content. To choose a blog for sponsored posts, you need to keep in mind that your objective is to expose your content to your target audience. What this means is that the blog you are choosing should feature content that is relevant to your niche. For instance, if you are running an e-commerce store that is selling baby care products. Now for you, ideally the best blogs would be [Scary Mommy](https://www.scarymommy.com/) or [mom.me](https://mom.me/) since they are already actively publishing content in this industry. (If you want to promote your SEO services, [this site](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) is ideal.) Here posting content that leads parents to your online store will be worthwhile compared to posting on sports website. Knowing this, keep the following considerations in mind: 1. The blog content is relevant to your product or service. 2. The audience of the blog is your own target audience. 3. The blog has active community of readers – check their social media and comment section for this. 4. The owners of the blogs are active on their social media accounts – they are posting regularly on their accounts and engaging with their followers. 5. Check that traffic your target blog or website is getting – while bloggers do tell you their monthly traffic to entice you, you can check it yourself by using tools as [Similar Web](https://www.similarweb.com/), [SEMrush](https://www.semrush.com/lp/backlinks/en/?https://www.semrush.com/lp/sem/en/%3Fkw=semrush&cmp=EE_SRCH_Brand_Semrush_EN&label=Brand_Semrush&Network=g&Device=c&gclid=Cj0KCQjws5HlBRDIARIsAOomqA11memTGh1vHYkGULml60hGMTbTLb_UgLT9mddwSt3SGyppXAMelRsaAn0iEALw_wcB) or [Ahrefs](https://ahrefs.com) 6. Another metric that you need to keep in mind is [domain authority](https://moz.com/learn/seo/domain-authority) or DA. It measures how high or low a website will rank on search engine results page. It measures the score on the scale of 0-100. You should choose blogs with DA 45 or above. Those having DA of 75 or above are more expensive. 7. Look into domain rating as well. Like DA, it is measured on a scale of 0-100 and measures the strength of a website’s backlink profile. If you are looking for blogs, choose those that have the strongest profiles.   8. Lastly, review the content that is already posted on the blog you are considering. Check their last ten blog posts and see if they offer valuable and compelling content. Focus on their grammar, punctuation and formatting. Keep in mind that you will be paying money to get your content posted, you don’t want it to be part of a substandard blog. *Here are [other SEO metrics](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) you might want to check.* ## How to find potential blogs Now comes the tricky part – searching for blogs that accept sponsored posts. Well, like all things we search online, its best to start our search on Google. It’s one of the best ways to find good blogs within your niche where you can add in sponsored posts. For instance, if you are looking for sports related blogs, search with the following phrases: - Guest posts sports blogs - Write for us sports blog - Sport blogs accepting guest posts - Sponsored post contribution - Submit a story Using your keyword along with words “write for us” or ‘’guest post’’ will help you to easily find blogs that are accepting sponsored posts. Here’s what Google showed with “write for us sports blog”: ![](/images/posts/inline/653e1734-write-for-us-sports-blog.jpg) Here’s another way of finding blogs for your sponsored posts – check what your competition is up to. Your competitors like you are also interested in creating sponsored posts to [increase organic traffic](https://www.pointvisible.com/blog/how-to-increase-organic-traffic-with-evergreen-content/) to their money pages and build their authority online. So, what should you do? Basically if [you know your SEO,](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) and have been working on it, you will be able to find our where your competitors have been posting their content on different blogs. A good backlink intersect analysis will show where your competition has link you don’t. You can reach out to those sites and see if they would also be interested in featuring your content too!   There are few other [SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) that you can use to check backlinks of your competitors like Moz’s and Ahrefs link explorer which shows you the backlinks of your competitors along with the blogs where they have posted their content on. Here is an example of Ahrefs intersect analysis which is helping you to find the links of your competitors. ![](/images/posts/inline/3d993be2-ahrefs-intersect-analysis.jpg) ![](/images/posts/inline/e7ae9905-link-intersect-1024x758.jpg) Lastly, one of the shortest routes to easily find blogs that accept sponsored posts is through lists available online. For instance, here’s one made by Matt Ahlgren who lists more than 200 websites and blogs that are accepting sponsored content!  Here his [list](https://www.websitehostingrating.com/list-of-200-websites-that-accept-guest-posts/). Another one that you can use is by Alejandro Rioja and [features confirmed sites](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) where you can publish your content. By the way, don’t just stop at blogs, you can also pay for sponsored content on Instagram, Youtube and other platforms. ## What does Google think about sponsored posts? Did you know that Google once ran a sponsored posts campaign itself? Back in the day, when Google was trying to promote Chrome as a browser, the internet was littered with posts promoting Chrome as one of the foremost browsers online. The campaign was run by Unruly Media for Google and it was subject of the [**The Washington Post**](https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/technology/google-chromes-sponsored-posts-explained/2012/01/03/gIQAascfYP_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.11e38a38fcb8) news article highlighting how the company violated its own rule. So, does this mean that Google doesn’t allow sponsored posts? In the early days of the platform, Google released a [warning](https://webmasters.googleblog.com/2017/05/a-reminder-about-links-in-large-scale.html) to digital marketers regarding using inbound links through large scale link building article campaigns. ![](/images/posts/inline/d92e36d1-googleswarning.jpg) Why? Because there was an increase in spammy links being used by marketers in their content online.  **Google further wrote that it doesn’t stop marketers from making sponsored posts online if they are full of information, helping in educating another site’s or blog’s users and creating awareness about the company.** It will only penalize if the marketers use links in large scale campaigns to trick Google Algorithm to get [higher ranking](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/). Here are the factors that the search engine listed in its message that can get you penalized: 1. By adding too many keyword rick links in the content that direct user to the target website. 2. Using large scale campaign where you end up posting articles on variety of large websites. 3. Creating content that is irrelevant and not informative. 4. Duplicating content or using same content across different sites. The links that are spammy in nature should feature [rel=”nofollow”](https://support.google.com/webmasters/answer/96569?hl=en). In summary – **Google doesn’t condemn sponsored posts** if you play by the rules. Which means we come back to the quality of your sponsored post – just like Neil Patel says, it needs to be great. It should be full of information and should not be a sales pitch but a blog that readers want to read and share with others. Don’t spam it with links just so that you can check off one more item from your [list of things to do for SEO.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-seo/) ## When are sponsored posts a worth investment? Bloggers know the value of their online presence and charge a fee for sponsored posts. So, what can you do here? The best course of action here is to evaluate your online marketing goals and your budget. Let’s discuss this with an example. A blog for car reviews charges $500 for a single post. Now you know that you can use the same amount on Facebook to get thousands of impressions or run a campaign on Google AdWords to get clicks on your website. But you also know that the blog has at least 100,000 page views every week. So, you can measure your success through “page per view” model and pay 500 dollars to reach that confirmed audience. Another factor to consider when making this decision is the blog’s community. Some blogs may not have large audiences, but they do have small, dedicated loyal readers who are active online to discuss what they are passionate about. Getting your content published on blogs like these can take you much further organically compared to conventional marketing means. In nutshell, sponsored posts are wonderful way to increase organic traffic to your website but its important to consider all the factors listed above. You will be spending time in researching and developing content that will become your online ambassador on reputed blogs and websites. Not to forget the cost that may even leave a dent on your wallet. So, make sure you do this right. If you are interested to make a sponsored post for your product or business and don’t know where to start, simply leave a message in the comment section below and start the discussion. (Guest Post by [PointVisible](https://www.pointvisible.com/). Want to [guest post here](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/)?) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Contact Contributors and Bloggers [Email and Message Templates] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/ Published: 2020-12-17 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Scripts ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. If you are serious about building your brand, you need to know how to slide into bloggers and contributors DMs and email inboxes! You probably have an amazing story to tell but need a way to break through the noise and effectively engage contributors at major publications. The first step is to recognize that most of the publishing today is done by contributors and not staff writers. This means that they are not actually employed by the publication and operate in their specific niche. ## **Why does this matter?** Well, contributors usually are entrepreneurs, business owners, and thought-leaders in their own space, so the articles that they publish are looking to further their business objectives and cement them as a leader in their niche. Don’t have time to engage with writers? [Send me a DM](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) to get featured on [Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com) and [So Influential](https://soinfluential.com/). **To start let’s chat about why we are taking a social to email to phone approach…** This is how the inbox of a contributor at a major publication (Forbes, Inc, etc.) usually looks. [![](/images/posts/inline/7f99616a-enhanced-19663-1443121857-1.jpg)](/images/posts/inline/7f99616a-enhanced-19663-1443121857-1.jpg) Your chances of effectively engaging them through email are close to 0%. So, we have to find a more effective way to engage. ## **What should you look for in a contributor or blogger?** Many people, when searching for a contributor, make contact based on the first impression of the contributors. They stumble upon a good article, Google the name of the author, and send a message to them on their social media accounts.  Even though this can sometimes turn into a good story, generally, you need more information about the person before you message them.  The person that you want as a contributor should fit in the industry you’re trying to boost. Notice their area of expertise, what are they good at, what is their tone, their style. Think about how all of that will fit with your website strategy.  If you want to get to specifics, you should make sure that the person you’re going to collaborate with is:  - **Transparent-** asking for a portfolio or examples of their writing is a very reasonable request. Depending on your needs, you might also want to see references or published pieces. Anybody who refuses to provide these things is shady at best.  - **High-quality-** when reading their portfolio or examples, you shouldn’t find grammatical mistakes or sentences that make no sense. Make sure that the person has an engaging voice and knows how to structure the writing properly. - **Original-** plagiarism is a big no! You have to make sure that the contributor you’re considering for collaboration doesn’t have a history of plagiarising content. Re-writing is one thing, copy-pasting other peoples’ content is a whole different level.  - **Flexible-** you need a person that will write content by the rules you set. It’s your website, it’s your style. They have to be flexible and create content that will suit your specific needs. ## **Where to find suitable bloggers and contributors?** Now, you may know how to contact the contributors and what to look for, but where can you find these contributors? Well, there are many ways you can go about this. 1. **Visit forums and communities**  Find forums, communities, and sites that are related to your niche where many people are sharing their ideas and content. In this way, you can either find content creators, but you don’t necessarily have to. Some of the people that are creating engaging and long posts on forums can be good choices even if they do not write professionally. Some people just have the knack for it! Use that. Following Quora answers can be a good decision in this direction. 2. **Content Search Engines**  Tools like BuzzSumo, Feedly, Twitter lists, Google query, and search- can help you see what’s happening in your area of content. Open the first results you get on whatever search engine you’re using, and look at blogs that have multiple contributors. Go through the blogs, and on those that you like write down the authors. Once you have several authors, don’t just write them immediately. Dive deeper. Research what kind of content they’re the best at, how many people follow them, what is their voice, their style. What kind of impression do their blogs imprint on you? Once you narrow them down, you can start contacting them. 3. **Go through your emails and comments**  Sometimes other people reach out to you, and they want to collaborate. Make sure that you take notice of every comment left on your blogs, and search through your emails. Even if you don’t have an offer, you can see which of the people that left comments on your blog might be interested in long discussions on the relevant subjects of the industry. It can’t hurt proposing collaborations to some of them that check out all the boxes we previously mentioned.  Additionally, you can always turn to freelance and visit sites where freelancers are selling content such as Freeup, Upwork, Freelancer, etc.  Here’s exactly how to contact contributors and [get yourself covered in major press](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/). ### **1\. Find A Publication In Your Broad Niche – i.e Entrepreneurship** Can’t think of one? Try [Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com/). [![](/images/posts/inline/c65e6005-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.30.31-pm.png)](/images/posts/inline/c65e6005-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.30.31-pm.png) Start By Searching For Your Niche i.e “Storytelling” ### **2\. Perform a specific search on that site for your specific niche area i.e ‘Storytelling’** Most sites will have a good searching functionality. Try picking the stories with the most views/shares. [![](/images/posts/inline/a9a8d912-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.30.20-pm.png)](/images/posts/inline/a9a8d912-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.30.20-pm.png) Below you will see a selection of posts/articles belonging to contributors. Let’s start with the first article! ### **3\. Navigate to an article, read the article and find the contributor info** [![](/images/posts/inline/1ba49d88-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.30.15-pm.png)](/images/posts/inline/1ba49d88-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.30.15-pm.png) Meet ADRIENNE WEISS AND GREG WEISS who are authors and executives. You’ll notice below their photo is their BUSINESS WEBSITE, BUSINESS FACEBOOK & (Twitter – let’s ignore that) – Before we act lets first take a look at the article [![](/images/posts/inline/e45e339d-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.49.10-pm.png)](/images/posts/inline/e45e339d-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.49.10-pm.png) ### **4\. Find their Facebook page, Instagram** or Linkedin Try using the platform that looks the most active. ### **5\. Like their page or follow them then send them your message.** [![](/images/posts/inline/1d12cf18-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.53.48-pm.png)](/images/posts/inline/1d12cf18-screen-shot-2017-03-15-at-12.53.48-pm.png) ### ***DM Template:*** *Hi , saw your article in about . Being a , I really connected with it. Was wondering if you’re open to chat about it?* You can also be direct and add something like: *I have some ideas about a new post on Topic. Would you like to collaborate together on it?* Congrats you sent a reply to a targeted contributor! After some time (typically 24-hours) you will get a reply that usually looks something like: *Hi, \_\_\_\_ — sure.  Just shoot me an email and we’ll take it from there.  (contributor email address)* The ball is in your court now! You have establish the initial relationship with the contributor and they are now waiting for an email from YOU! ### **6\. Craft the Best Email** / DM A major key is the subject line! Try something like: ***Subject:** Thanks for our Facebook chat,* I have included an email template below for you to base your message off: ### ***Email Template:*** *Hi , I saw your article on “” on and I really connected with the message! I enjoyed the part where you mentioned — I think most people in my circle wouldn’t think about this way and that could limit their* *I noticed that the article had , I expected a lot more for the immense value & effort that you put into that piece. I know my network will get a lot of value out of this post, so I shared through my social channels, and on my organization’s page.* *I think the biggest value my followers will be able to get out of this article is .* *, I really enjoyed reading your work and I am excited to follow you on your journey. I noticed that there is a lot of noise out there in the contributor world. Do you think that’s why this article this article didn’t get as many shares & views as it could of?* *Sincerely,* After you send this email the key is to be patient. Contributors are extremely busy operating their own ventures, and any other email can come off as aggressive. My suggestion is to wait 24-hrs for a response. **Here is how a reply from the contributor could look:** *Hi \_\_\_\_\_,* *Thanks for your message, really glad to hear you got some value from the article & of course you know messages like this warms one’s heart! Very appreciative…* *That’s very supportive of you to share with your network & you are right about the views, it’s something that I have to figure out and explore how to get more people to see the article. I primarily shared it with my network, so I think that’s why it didn’t get as many views.* *I look forward to learning more about you as well…* *Thanks so much,* If you’re able to reach this point that is HUGE — but don’t be discouraged if you don’t. Like I said, contributors are extremely busy people and sometimes timing/schedules don’t align! ### **7\. Your Second Email Reply** (or follow up) If they reply to your initial email they are interested, don’t be arrogant or pushy, tell them a bit about yourself…. ***Message Template:*** *Hi \_\_\_\_\_,* *\[Tell about yourself, suggest a couple angles – always ensure you’re relating back to their work, beliefs etc.)* *If you’re willing to include me in a piece, I think it would be a really interesting collaboration given that both of us are very passionate about this area! — I always make sure to share the message on my channels to help get as many views as possible, because I really want people to see this story just like you do!* *I would love to jump on a call at your convenience for a discussion!* *Sincerely,* ## **Important points to consider** 1. Great blogs today are mostly done by contributors and not staff writers. That is why the content is specific to the niche they operate in and has valuable insights.  2. Avoid contacting them by e-mail since their inboxes might be extremely full. Instead, use social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.  3. Make sure the people you collaborate with are trustworthy, flexible, gifted, and original. 4. Do the hard work when it comes to discovering contributors that will fit the style of your website because, in the end, it will be worth it.  ## Bottom line Congratulations! You have specifically targeted a contributor for your niche, and engaged them in authentic conversation! You have significantly increased your chances of being included or featured in a piece. ***Remember to start your conversations with contributors on social, move to email, and eventually try and get them on the phone for a authentic conversation!*** Want a guaranteed feature on amazing sites like Future Sharks? [DM me and I’ll be happy to help](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro). Let me know what other topics you want me to cover next! Other topics you will like: - [How to get on Forbes, Mashable, Entrepreneur, Techcrunch](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/) - [My collection of best posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles) . --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Are The Different Types Of Compliance Risks? Here Is What You Need To Know Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-compliance-risks-here-is-what-you-need-to-know/ Published: 2020-11-25 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Every organization needs to follow some rules. They are set by regulatory bodies and encompass numerous industries. Depending on the nature of your business, different rules and regulations will apply to your business. As these regulators and regulations grow in numbers, the compliance risk also increases for businesses.  Failure to obey rules can lead to penalties, loss of trust among consumers, and other serious consequences. Hence, it is always best to have a thorough understanding of the rules you need to follow. To avoid compliance risk, many companies provide [**corporate compliance training**](https://corporatecompliancehq.org/) to their employees. ## What Is Compliance Risk? Organizations need to adhere to compliance rules set forth by regulatory bodies. Compliance risks signify the penalties these regulatory bodies may impose on your organization if it fails to comply with these rules. Generally, all compliance documents contain the following details that are paramount to understanding the situations and risks: 1. Rules 2. Penalty for not complying with rules 3. All concerned parties in the legislation 4. Risk rating 5. Compliance status Here are the categories, depending on the type of risk they impose: ### Legal Impact If you fail to comply with these laws and regulations, you may be slapped with some legal action. They include fines, penalties, product seizures, revoking of rights, and imprisonment. ### Financial Impact Failure to follow these rules can cause problems for the organization in terms of wealth.  It can either be due to diminishing investor confidence, the company’s bottom line problems, falling share market prices, and a reduction in estimated future earnings. ### Reputational Impact Many reasons can affect the reputation of your brand. These risks are usually due to bad PR, reduced employee confidence, and low customer trust in the brand. ### Business Impact These factors inhibit a business’s ability to operate in a specific environment. Plant shutdown and trade embargo are some reasons for them. ## Different Types Of Compliance Risks ### Political Uncertainty Elections are a big deal for businesses and organizations. Depending on the party in power, different laws can change or work differently.  When there is uncertainty about the next political party in power, there is a risk of running into new regulations. These can cause massive stress in business operations. ### Data Protection Laws As the client or consumer data is stored in an organization’s database, there are many rules that they must follow.  These include consent to use their data, data retention, third party access information, freedom to access their data, and more.  Some of the regulatory bodies that are in charge of the data protection laws are CCPA and GDPR. ### Conflicts Of Interest Although common in the financial industry, the regulations state that investment brokers and other finance managers must avoid acting in their interest with customers’ money.  The conflict of interest in securities is managed by the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission). ### Market Risk These risks depend on the market of the stock or the product. Organizational managers must be aware of the bigger picture of the overall market to calculate risk and find safe alternatives like ETF. ### Conduct Risk These are internal risks with heavy consequences. Criminal cases such as sexual harassment, discrimination, and bullying come under misconduct and negatively affect the company. ### Corruption As an organization, you need to maintain a strict code to prevent your employees from engaging in bribery, fraud, intellectual information theft, and more.  The entire organization will be held responsible for the actions of an individual. These activities will negatively hurt your company in terms of public scandals, reparations, penalties, and consumer trust. ### Quality You need to follow specific regulations and standards for your products and services. They are controlled by a wide range of institutions, the most common being the International Organization of Standards (ISO).  The inability to follow these rules may result in product seizures, penalties, and even shutting down the business. ### Environmental Risk They are caused by the harmful impact on the surrounding flora, fauna, and ecosystem due to your organization. They usually arise due to pollution, the factory’s location, and toxic material dumping in a locality. Many organizations deal with environmental issues. Some of them are the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ISO. ### Health And Safety Standards Organizations must look after the health and safety of their workforce. They must employ safety procedures while at work or around dangerous equipment.  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is considered the chief regulator of safety in the United States. ## Risk Analysis And Management The solution to all these risks lies in proper assessment and management of the compliance risks.  Your organization may be keen on hiring a compliance analyst or manager to help with these issues. However, you need proper corporate compliance training to succeed in your career. As a compliance analyst, you are likely to choose the following pattern to analyze and manage your risks: 1. Make sure that every employee understands the compliance rules and risks. You may need to get their feedback on the gravity and likelihood of each threat. 2. Use data analytics and data visualization to analyze and get a clear picture of the compliance data and risks. 3. Make sure that everyone understands their duty towards compliance and that it is a collective duty. 4. Keep reviewing the process and change wherever you think requires improvement. 5. Once you are through the risk analysis stage, you need to undergo risk management, depending on your company and its compliance risks. 6. If you are a first-generation compliance officer, it can be a challenging experience. You can start by forming a team to assess risks, analyze and handle them on a small budget. 7. You can turn a notch higher with compliance, using technology and software to help in the process. 8. If your company already has digital tools for the process, you can raise the bar by undergoing compliance patterns through automation. 9. Finally, you can use social media trackers and other real-time data to analyze and process risks early to manage them efficiently. Additionally, you can ask the [**association of corporate counsel**](https://corporatecompliancehq.org/association-of-corporate-counsel/) to help you with compliance problems. ## Bottom line There are laws to limit corporations on illegal or harmful practices that they need to comply with. Failure to comply may result in different types of risks.  However, with careful analysis and a proper risk management team, you can forecast and stop such violations from happening. Liked this article? Find more useuful content here: - [How to Get More Views on Youtube](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-more-views-on-youtube-youtube-seo-tricks-for-2020/) - [4 Easy Steps to Get YOUR Website To The Top of Google in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/4-easy-steps-to-get-your-website-to-the-top-of-google-in-2020/) - [Top 3 White-Hat Link Building Techniques That Google Loves](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 7 Ways to Combine Email and Social Media Marketing Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/7-ways-to-combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/ Published: 2020-11-23 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: While Facebook’s native retargeting tools are robust on their own, you can access even more functionality with a third-party service that offers additional features. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Email and social media are considered two of the best channels for engaging with customers (aside from [organic search](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/)), but most marketers treat them as two separate platforms. In fact, they’re typically even more effective when combined together to take advantage of each one’s unique strengths. > Creating a more cohesive online experience will move users through the sales funnel more efficiently and help you achieve your marketing goals. Today, I will cover a few of the most powerful strategies for using email and social media together for better traffic and sales. ## 1\. Encourage People to Sign Up for Your Lists via Social The simplest way to make your email and social media presences complement each other is to lead users across channels to engage with your brand on multiple platforms. You can put a link to your website in your social media bio, for example, and make occasional posts advertising your email list. *Related: here’s [how to grow your Instagram followers](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/).* ### Keep the messaging consistent Keep in mind that effective cross-channel promotion depends on a consistent brand impression across every platform. Readers will lose interest if your email content has a different tone from what they’re used to seeing on your social media profiles. You can do the same thing in reverse by including links to your social media pages in every marketing email. Most brands add these buttons at the bottom of each message near the unsubscribe button. Use the social media platform’s logo as the button to draw your audience’s attention. In addition to gathering email addresses through social media, you can also upload your contact list back to social media to create more continuous interactions across channels. Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms make it easy to sync your email list through Custom Audiences. ## 2\. Use Retargeting Ads on Facebook ![](/images/posts/inline/590ced56-ad-retargeting.png) It’s substantially cheaper to sell to existing customers than to new ones, and retargeting is one of the most valuable kinds of marketing campaigns. Facebook provides a variety of retargeting options that make it the perfect place to get started with your first retargeting campaign. Facebook allows you to create three basic kinds of custom audiences depending on the goals of each campaign: 1. The first option, customer list, simply finds people on Facebook who have already engaged with you through email, over the phone, or via another channel. 2. Website traffic audiences, on the other hand, target people who have visited your brand’s website or performed certain actions, such as making a purchase. The Facebook pixel enables you to track user behavior using numerous parameters for thorough customization during each campaign. 3. Finally, app activity audiences behave similarly to website traffic audiences but are based on activity in a game or app. All three types of custom audiences can be useful, so don’t forget to test out different options depending on your buyer personae. You can apply retargeting to email specifically by setting up campaigns that target users who clicked through on your marketing emails. This is the perfect way to engage with readers on multiple channels and [move them through the sales funnel more quickly](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). While Facebook’s native retargeting tools are robust on their own, you can access even more functionality with a third-party service that offers additional features. [Perfect Audience](https://www.perfectaudience.com/), for example, is designed to facilitate retargeting campaigns through your website, app, or Facebook page. ### Try multiple types of campaigns With so many options available to marketers, it’s impossible to determine which types of campaigns will perform best for any given business. The only way to consistently improve and stay ahead of the competition is to try new strategies whenever possible—don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional tactics. Retargeting campaigns generally lead to a higher conversion rate and lower cost per sale than those that target new users, so it’s important to make retargeting a priority in your marketing practices. Facebook is just one method for retargeting, as you can also set up retargeting campaigns via email and other channels. [Drip email campaigns](https://www.omnisend.com/blog/drip-campaign/), for example, allow you to configure certain emails to send automatically in response to certain triggers. They’re one of the best strategies for maximizing your email marketing ROI as they target users at specific points in the sales cycle. Here’s an example of how we do it at [Flux Chargers](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers). *Like the charger? Use the code ALE to get 20% off.* ![](/images/posts/inline/ac2f9b00-email-drip-campaign-760x1024.png) Welcome emails are a common drip campaign that introduce new subscribers to your brand and keep them interested in your products. Most consumers expect a welcome email when they sign up for a newsletter, so this is a great starting point if you’re new to drip email campaigns. Cart abandonment sequences are another kind of drip campaign that targets users who added a product to their cart before leaving your site. The majority of online shopping carts are abandoned before the purchase, so converting even a small percentage of abandoned carts could have a significant impact on your sales numbers. Are you running an e-commerce business? [Read this guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) to take it to the next level (aka. millions of dollars in sales) ## 3\. Showcase User-Generated Content Your own content should always be the focus of your email and social media campaigns, but user-generated content can contribute to audience engagement and make your brand more interesting. More and more businesses are focusing on user-generated content (UGC) across all marketing channels. User-generated content includes a wide variety of [content forms depending on your brand’s strategies](https://www.foleon.com/topics/building-and-applying-a-content-marketing-strategy). Some marketers gather user responses in giveaways or contests while others simply publish high-quality content as they receive it. Your approach should be based on what you expect your audience to engage with. Posting at least some user-generated content adds more diversity to your feed and shows readers that you’re interested in interacting with your audience. Like word of mouth, user-generated content is essentially free marketing for your brand. This shouldn’t be a one-time thing—user-generated content should be part of your ongoing email and social media strategies. [Authority Daily](http://authoritydaily.com/) does this really well by showcasing some of the best reactions to their posts via their email campaign. ## 4\. Collect Email Addresses via Social Media Just as you can gain social media followers through email, you can also add to your email list by finding new contacts on social media. It’s easy to lead social media users directly to your email newsletter and add a reliable new source of leads to your email capture tactics. Twitter, for example, offers a lead generation card that’s designed to streamline the email capture process for Twitter users. Rather than simply tweeting a link to your site, you can give followers the option to sign up for your email list without leaving Twitter. ![](/images/posts/inline/40d3964f-twitter-generation-card.png) Lead generation cards include a headline along with a short description of your newsletter and a call to action that leads to your newsletter. Many brands combine these cards with a [lead magnet](https://venngage.com/blog/lead-generation/) to increase their sign-up rate—lead magnets are a relatively affordable way to grow your email list. Facebook’s call to action feature on their [Lead Form ads](https://www.facebook.com/business/help/1481110642181372), directs users to a dedicated landing page instead of allowing them to sign up on Facebook. ![](/images/posts/inline/c7aac7d2-facebook-lead-ads-3-step-process.jpg) You can choose the button and site URL along with an optional alternative URL for users on mobile devices. By pinning a lead generation card to your Twitter profile or including a call to action on your Facebook page, you can make your newsletter the first thing social media users see when they visit your page. This should lead to a consistent stream of new leads, especially if you already have a strong social media presence. ## 5\. Create A Private Facebook Group ![](/images/posts/inline/2554481d-private-fb-group-1024x426.png) Exclusive content is one of the most commonly used lead magnets, and it’s a great way to give back to your most loyal customers. Private Facebook groups are an innovative strategy for lead generation that connects your email and social media audiences. As with any lead magnet, the most important element of this strategy is ensuring that the group provides a unique value that users couldn’t get anywhere else. It won’t be a good incentive if it ends up providing the same information that’s publicly available on Facebook. With that in mind, you need to invest in a [consistent stream of high-quality content](https://www.socialpilot.co/blog/content-for-facebook-audience) if you’re serious about creating a great Facebook group. It’s often difficult to strike the right balance between adding new users and maintaining the exclusivity that makes it a worthwhile opportunity. A truly unique private Facebook group is an invaluable resource, and it can be one of the most effective lead magnets in nearly any field. You can even ask for more in exchange for admittance to the group—instead of simply requiring users to sign up for your email newsletter, for example, you could have them share your brand on social media or refer new leads to your contact list. It’s critical to create a group that responds to common user questions or concerns in a helpful and informative way. Identifying the best strategies for a private Facebook group is all about understanding the unique needs of your customer personae. You can also gather customer feedback to learn more about their experience and how you can help. One of my favorite FB marketing groups is [Stacking Growth](https://www.facebook.com/groups/stackgrowth/) btw. ## 6\. Make a Messenger Bot A FB messenger list might be one of the best email lists out there right now. With over [80%+ open rate](https://medium.com/olyo/messenger-chatbots-can-lead-your-campaigns-to-a-98-open-rate-7292db19158f), it destroys the ~10% open rates of emails. The power of the bot not only comes from the high engagement but the ability for your customers to communicate with your business in an automated way. You can create sequences that answer the most common questions such as your business hours, location, product specs, or even route people to the specific FAQ or Docs page. Also, you can blast discounts and promotions to everyone who signed up for your Messenger list. You can build a bot using [ManyChat](http://manychat.pxf.io/3xWVK). ## 7\. Use CRM to keep it all organized! Its obvious that to combine email and social media, you will have to go back and forth these forums alot. The best way to ensure you have it all together is by the use of a CRM software. It will help you combine social media and email by keeping all your data on a single platform. Through this, you will also get access to featurs like automatic email integration which will enble you to capture your outbound and inbound emails automatically so you can keep tracking your leads timely. ## Wrapping up! Email and social media were once two completely separate platforms, but forward-thinking marketers are now looking for innovative ways to combine their strengths. These are just a few of the most effective tactics for connecting your email and social media campaigns to maximize traffic, subscriptions, and sales. How do you use the power of both in your business? Let me know in the comments (I’ll check out your site!) If you enjoyed this, read: - [What to do if you only have $100 to do marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/100-bucks-facebook-ad-budget/) - My collection of [best marketing guides](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) which include SEO, social, and more. - [Highest CPC Keywords and Best Adsense Niches](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top 3 White-Hat Link Building Techniques That Google Loves Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/ Published: 2020-11-23 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: SEO TL;DR: - Sale Product on sale ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Being in the SEO industry for the last 5 years, I can say that SEO is ever-evolving where you need to stay on your toes, [experiment with new strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) and scale the ones that work in order to survive. Whether you are a newbie at SEO or an experienced webmaster, you understand that links were, are, and will be an important piece of the puzzle that complements your SEO campaign. Links do take some time to show their effect, sometimes in [not the way you desire at first](https://structuredseo.com/debunking-8-common-seo-myths/), but eventually, they do move the needle in a positive way. **If you are not sure how and where to begin your SEO campaign, you can have a consultation session with me here.** - [ Sale Product on sale ![30 Min Consultation](/images/posts/inline/10aa3a67-30-min-seo-consultation.png) 30 Min Consultation ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/30-min-consultation/) ~$600~ Original price was: $600.$350Current price is: $350. Rated **4.73** out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=4&lang=en&add-to-cart=23495) With Google constantly sending its favorite animals from the penalty zoo, its high time you get to know about the three tried and tested link building methods which you can use to [improve your off-page SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/off-page-seo/) and steer your websites clear from those dementors. If you master these three techniques and use them to juice up your website, then the chances of your site getting hit by [future Google updates](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) are minimized to a great extent. The best ways to build backlinks in 2020 are: - Infographics - Guest Blogging - Top Lists ## 1\. Infographics Out of the three link building methods above, I favor infographics the most as I believe that it gives you better returns on your investment compared to guest blogging as well as top lists and can be modified to make it work better for us (some prominent techniques that use infographics include guestographics and skyscraper link building). When it comes to acquiring links through an†infographic, all you need to do is research for a good topic, design the infographic (or get it designed by a professional) and then reach out to relevant bloggers in your niche and pitch your infographic (along with an introduction) I will be elaborating the steps with some tips in detail below (you didn’t really thought that I’d move on to the next strategy without properly explaining this one, did you?) ### Researching a Good Topic This is THE most important part of this strategy and if described in percentages, carries 45% weightage towards the success of this technique. First of all, you need to login to ahrefs and open the content explorer (you can get a trial account if you don’t have a paid subscription, although I highly recommend getting a paid subscription) Once done, you need to plug in your niche and allow the tool to do its magic and fetch you the most shared articles in your niche. **Here’s a pro tip:** Go broader when you are looking for ideas instead of going narrow. Suppose your niche is vacuum cleaners, you search for broad terms like cleaning, health, and family. The advantage of using a broad term is that they are related to your niche one way or the other and you significantly increase your prospects list when you are in the last stage of reaching out to bloggers. It’s simple math guys, the broader audience you reach, the more ROI you can expect from this technique. Make sure you select 3 to 5 titles from the results list which are good enough to be converted into an infographic. Don’t bother going with the title with most shares, instead, pick one which is eye-catching and intriguing. Try to run those titles with your friends and family if you need help picking the best of the best. Once you have finalized the title, its time to do some research for the infographic data. All you need is to research 300 to 500 words of data for your infographic (please don’t go beyond 500 words as lengthy infographics aren’t well received). With the help of Google, list some interesting facts and statistics on your chosen topic. You can also get some ideas from visiting the source URL from the ahrefs’ content explorer and get some ideas. You can always get a professional writer if you are having trouble writing it yourself. ### Designing the Infographic This one carries 30% weightage. Now, unless you are experienced with designing graphics using either Photoshop or Illustrator or Canva (unfortunately MS Paint won’t cut it 😉 ), I suggest you get it designed by a professional. It only costs around 50 to 75 USD and you can find some excellent designers on [Fiverr](http://www.fiverr.com/s2/13c3fcaa55). Just do a search for “infographic”. **Here’s another pro tip:** While the infographic is being designed, you can Google your winning title and find 5 to 7 websites which published a similar post on your topic. You can add those URLs at the bottom of the infographic as references and then pitch a slightly different email to those particular bloggers stating that they have been featured as a credible source in your infographic. Webmasters love to see their blogs mentioned and would happily share your infographic (or their achievement) on their blogs. That’s how you land some links effortlessly. Once you have your infographic designed, publish it on your website along with a 750 to 1000 word article elaborating the infographic data. You can link to your money pages or the articles which need some link love from this data. ### Reaching out to the Bloggers This is the final stage and carries 25% weightage. This step should considerably be easy provided you nailed the infographic design. To gather the prospects, you need to use ScrapeBox harvester (again, please consider investing in the Swiss army knife of SEO if you haven’t yet) along with a couple of private or rotating proxies. Use the same terms you used in ahrefs’ content explorer to find prospects. ![](/images/posts/inline/ca623435-ahrefs-content-explorer-770x217.png) I won’t be diving deep on how to use ScrapeBox and the modifiers as [there’s an excellent resource available at QuickSprout](https://www.quicksprout.com/the-advanced-guide-to-link-building-chapter-8/) or you can use your old pal Google to find tutorials for it. However, I will explain you the advanced part of cleaning your list and finding emails. Once you have found around 10000 URLs in your ScrapeBox harvester grid, it’s time to … #### Trim the list ![](/images/posts/inline/3f928aee-trim-to-root.jpg) Check the sidebar for “Trim” option. Click on it and select the “Trim to root” option. Then click on “Remove/Filter” and then select “Remove Duplicate Domains”. This should trim your list down to 3000 to 4000 unique domains. Minimize ScrapeBox. Once done, open notepad and then paste the following and save the file in a .txt format named as Domain Filter. *.blogspot.com* *.wordpress.com* *.tumblr.com* *.typepad.com* *.gov* *.edu* After that, go back to ScrapeBox and again click on “Remove/Filter” and then select “Remove URLs containing entries from…”. ![](/images/posts/inline/127e1a69-remove-filter.png) This should open up a dialog box where you can select files. Select the “Domain Filter” file you created in the previous step. Doing this will remove all the subdomains from the free blogging platforms as well as eliminate the .gov and .edu websites. The reason why we remove .gov and .edu websites is that they never grant our request to link to our infographic (there’s scholarship link building for such sites, which is under scrutiny by Google due to abuse of that technique by many affiliate websites) This should cut down the fatty layer from your list and get it down to 2000 to 2500. The last step in cleaning your list is to sort it on the basis of DA. You can use bulk DA checker for that. DomDetailer is my favorite tool. Once the tool spits out the DA, PA, TF, and CF of your list in a beautiful excel sheet, open that sheet and use the filter function on the DA column to arrange domains in the descending order (sites with higher DA will be on top). After that, just keep the sites in between DA 20 to DA 70 and eliminate the rest (the reason we do this is that low DA blogs aren’t worth it and we don’t really want to waste our time for super high DA sites (usually referred to as Sharks or Whales) as they won’t accept your linking request. Now you have a list of good blogs which you can email. Save that sheet and pat yourself at the back for a job well done. The next step is to … #### Find the emails Open the sheet and then select 20-30 URLs (a little less if you have a computer with low processing power) and paste it in a bulk URL opener (you can find numerous extensions in both Chrome and Firefox marketplaces) You might be wondering why we aren’t using ScrapeBox’s Email Grabber for this job. Well, to be honest, ScrapeBox sucks when it comes to email gathering. Too many wrong email addresses and if there are multiple email addresses on a page, then it will grab the first one it finds (which isn’t the one we need since we need to reach out to the blog owner and not his daughter or wife or content creator. Sure this takes some time but you can rest assured that you have the correct email address of the people you want to reach. I suggest you start with a doable level of getting emails from 250 sites per day (shouldn’t take more than 4 hours) **Here’s a pro tip:** Make sure you get their name if you see it on their website’s about me/us page as people love to be addressed by their names. Make sure you have the right name though, else leave the field blank. #### Reaching out to the bloggers It’s time for the last step guys. All you need to do is to plug the email addresses into your favorite email outreach program like Mailshake, BuzzStream or GMass. I won’t be diving deep on how to use these tools as there are tutorials available online. **Time to hit that SEND button guys!** If you followed everything outlined above, you should start to get positive replies from bloggers willing to link to your infographic. Send them over a small introduction of 300 to 400 words and slip in your link with your desired anchor in that intro for a juicy contextual link. Congratulations, you have nailed the method of infographic link building and also mastered the technique of manual outreach. Three cheers for you! Let’s move on to the next technique. ## 2\. Guest Blogging ![Guest Blogging](/images/posts/inline/fbedb132-guest-blogging.jpg) Guest Blogging or Ghost Blogging stands the second place on my list. Pro tip: [guest post on any of my blogs!](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) Just like infographics, this technique also involves reaching out to bloggers with just a small change that is we pitch some content ideas to the blog owners instead of an infographic. Although this requires a little more investment (in the form of quality content) compared to infographic link building, it is a sure fire way to land some good links from blog owners who rejected to publish your infographic as you can suggest or accept the suggestion of the blog owners and get started on the draft. This technique has three phases to it namely researching for some good topic ideas (at least 30 of them), reaching out to relevant bloggers and writing the desired post on approval. Here’s the elaboration… ### Researching for Some Good Topic Ideas For this, you can use ahrefs’ content explorer or Google to get some interesting title ideas. Aim to get at least 30 ideas so that you can rotate them in a set of 5 and use them for the prospects. The reason we do is that we can suggest a different set to a particular blogger if he or she doesn’t like the previous ideas. You are more than welcome to be creative with ideas and rotation in this step. ### Reaching out to Relevant Bloggers Scraping the lists using Scrapebox and finding the emails manually is similar to the method for the previous technique (refer to the final stage in infographic link building strategy if you need help) with just a minor addition. All you need to do is to make sure you read the guest blogging terms (if the blog has one) and see if they have any particular emailing requirements. Majority of bloggers won’t have any but some ask to use special subject lines, request them to address in a particular way or ask to include a “secret” word in your pitch to ensure you read the terms. Once done, you need to email them (use Mailshake, BuzzStream or GMass) with the title ideas in a set of 5 (feel free to repeat the sets in a serial order to avoid confusion). ### Writing the Desired Post on Approval This is the last step where you actually start writing the articles as per the title requests you received from the blog owners. Make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully and structure the article as per the liking of that particular blogger to tremendously increase your chances of getting published. Congratulations, you have nailed the method of guest blogging. Three cheers for you! Let’s move on to the next and last technique for today. ## 3\. Top Lists – a Technique with the Least Investment This is a good finisher technique for your link building campaign which requires the least investment of all and naturally a little less returns (but hey, you get a free link, so it’s not that bad after all) This technique comprises of three steps which are finding the prospects, writing a list article on your site mentioning those prospects and finally emailing them. Here’s the elaboration… ### Finding the Prospects This is the least time consuming of all the strategies above since you only need to find around 15-20 prospects. All you need to do is to search for the following in Google: *Top Bloggers* **Needless to say, you need to replace with your niche 😉** Browse at least 10 such list articles which you found on Google. Naturally, you will find that the list has featured some bloggers in your niche. Make a note of all the blogs you find from those ten articles in an excel sheet (you should easily be able to find more than 50 unique domains from those lists combined). Save the sheet as “Top List Prospects” and keep it aside. The next step is to open ahrefs (or your favorite backlink checker) and then find the referring domains pointing to those 10 lists one by one (you don’t want to check the referring domains of the entire website but just the top list page on that website). After that, open the “Top List Prospects” excel sheet and then mark the blogs which link back to the original list they have been featured on. These are the golden nuggets which you need to target and email as they have a proven record of featuring their accomplishment by linking to the page which awarded them. Make sure you find at least 10 such golden nuggets out of minimum 15-20 required (you can pick the remaining 5 or 10 blogs from the Top List Prospects sheet as you see fit). ### Writing a List Article Now that you have your top list golden nuggets, you need to visit all those blogs (use the Bulk URL opener) and make note of following details: *Blogger’s name* *His/her photo (or website’s logo if* a photo *isn’t available)* *Social media handles (Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Linkedin, Google Plus etc.)* *A small excerpt from his/her about page (make sure you rewrite that in your own words instead of copy-pasting directly)* Here’s a good list article if you need an example. After you are done writing, publish that article and add the current year in the title (ex. Top 15 SEO Blogs to Follow in 2018) ### Emailing them It’s the same thing again, just like the last two techniques. All that’s left for you is to email those bloggers that they have been featured on your list and enjoy the free links either from their homepage or “mentions” page. Congratulations, you have earned your black belt in safe link building techniques. You are more than welcome to share the knowledge with your friends and family by forwarding this article to them. ## Where this leaves us There you have it guys. Keep practicing these three highly scalable techniques and improve them using your creativity. Please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions and I will be happy to help you out. Now it’s time to take action and get those links! I wish you all the best! Related content: - Now that you have backlinks, learn [how to do SEO like a pro](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [Your on-page optimization sucks, here’s how to fix it](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - Google’s latest algorithm: [RankBrain](https://alejandrorioja.com/rankbrain/) Drop your comments below and let me know what other guides you would like to see on the blog! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Optimize Your Website Speed: Top 12 Tips & Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/ Published: 2020-11-20 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Business, E-commerce TL;DR: Amazon learned that they lose $1.6 billion in sales for every second lost to page slowdown. I mentioned that more people would be unhappy if a website takes long to load and Kissmetrics studied this in detail. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Every website owner aims to create and maintain a satisfying online experience for its present and future visitors. When was the last time you went to a website that loaded so slowly? Did you immediately close the tab while it was still loading? It is one of the downsides of owning a website that loads very slowly. In this fast paced world where out attention spans are getting shorter, it’s frustrating for website visitors when it takes a lot of time for the site to load.  Keeping this in view, I thought of putting together this guide in why it is essential to keep your website’s loading speed fast. I will share a few tricks on how to improve your website’s speed. For a summary regarding this topic and why it is crucial, you can view the video below: ## Why optimize your website for speed? ![](/images/posts/inline/dbf36b51-fast-loading-concept-illustration_114360-747.jpg) A website’s loading speed, also known as page load time, is a performance metric that reveals the time needed for a page to show on the user screen. For a website to be successful, three factors should be satisfied: conversion, visibility, and usability. Let us explore these three factors. ### Conversion This factor is the ability to [turn your website visitors into customers](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/). It happens if any user can buy a product, subscribe to newsletter campaigns, register for a webinar, or download a guide. [Hubspot](https://www.hubspot.com/) declared in their [report](https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/page-load-time-conversion-rates) that every second’s delay in page loading speed contributes to a 7% reduction in conversion. [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/) learned that they lose $1.6 billion in sales for every second lost to page slowdown. I mentioned that more people would be unhappy if a website takes long to load and [Kissmetrics](https://www.kissmetricshq.com/) studied this in detail. They found out that 47% of the visitors want the sites to load in two seconds at most, 40% will abandon it if it exceeds this amount, and [79% of visitors](https://blog.kissmetrics.com/speed-is-a-killer/) will not return to a website that loads at least three seconds too.  To motivate you to keep your website loading faster, 52% of shoppers [said](https://www.crazyegg.com/blog/speed-up-your-website/) that they would be loyal to a site that loads faster and almost half of them will relay to their friends about poor site experiences. A real-life story you can aspire to when it comes to increasing your website performance is [Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/). They learned that every second shaved off their site’s loading time increased their conversion rate by 2% and every hundred milliseconds shaved off increased their revenue up to 1%. It reveals one thing: if users aren’t willing to wait for your websites to load, ignoring the need to improve your website means that they’ll immediately leave it.  ### Visibility Apparently, the faster your website loads, the more search engines increase your rank in its search pages. Google does it actively to rank websites. This success factor revolves around how often your website appears in the first few pages in search results. Aside from that, Google has ranked websites based on their mobile versions since December 2017. It was included in their assessment as they want to help users avoid websites that will not work correctly no matter what device they are using. They changed their assessment as they realized that mobile searches outnumbered desktop searches for the first time [since 2015](https://www.thinkwithgoogle.com/data-gallery/detail/mobile-vs-desktop-search-trends/), and the numbers continue to grow from there. They were able to adapt to how the trend [reversed itself](https://searchengineland.com/finally-going-mobile-friendly-collision-course-googles-mobile-first-index-case-study-265227). We can then conclude that shaving off one’s website speed can increase one’s rank in search results at the same time. Relevant: [Also read the review and ranking of top 9 search engines here](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) ### Usability Remember that I have talked about how users will turn away from websites that won’t load fast enough?  Users will also turn away from websites that are hard to use as well. For example, if your background image is too big, the screen will take some time to load it, thus increasing its page loading time in the process. Having a website with elements that weigh down your loading time will increase your bounce rate, which decreases your chances of keeping them in.  This way of thinking also works if any of your visitors are having a hard time loading one of your pages even if it is the only page that is loading slowly. They will think that the other pages load as slow as it does, thus decreasing your chances of retaining an audience in the long run. I would always recommend you keep your website lightweight, mobile-responsive, and fast to help it stay up and get more visitors.  ## How to check your website’s speed It is important to learn a better way to know how fast your website loads. One of the smartest ways is to use tools that will not only display metrics of how fast it loads but identify which parts one needs to improve. For this tutorial, I will show you how to make use of [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/), one of the many tools I use to improve my own site. Before that, I will introduce you to what it is and how it works. ### What is Ezoic? [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) is a software suite aimed to improve a website’s usability or content discovery. A technology company from San Diego, California created it. It was founded in the 90s  by Dwayne Lafleur, an internet entrepreneur, who also founded Facebook’s first ad network, Cubics. For this article, I want to highlight its Big Data Analytics module.  Relevant: [Before hopping onto the next section, check my detailed review of Ezoic here](https://alejandrorioja.com/ezoic-review/) #### Ezoic Big Data Analytics ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W4zybKDkWdxwnmrFJWJ0GNw-KeCWdBO5zG3CaymNFOzb6UHW3cWHEYRxgUfgKWEW1AI2Lfm5IbnlV65WJjM8IvG-OiYnTrvYYuwcwPd1qlmVc4Yym0iCEpgov8jqV1SAtSzERmf) The GIF above shows some of the features of this software suite on your website. You can get granular details regarding how your website visitors behave, such as visitor engagement by page and traffic source. Aside from that, you can find the best combinations of recommended pages, social shares, and scroll percentages, among many others. You can also find out what kind of visitors your website attracts too. For example, you can check their language, location, local time, local time zones, and weather. Finally, you can see which website success factor is impacting your sales count. It can help you generate a report where you can link whether your page speed, article length, and traffic sources increases or decreases your ad revenue. #### Website Requirements for Ezoic To get [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/), check whether your website complies with any of the following: 1. 10,000 number of visits per month on the minimum 2. Has no invalid clicks or impressions 3. Not falsely encouraging clicks 4. Not offering copyrighted material or downloads 5. Not offering counterfeit goods 6. Does not redirect users to undesirable pages, sites, pop-ups, or pop-unders 7. Contain gambling content 8. Contain illegal content 9. Does not contain automatically generated content 10. Does not use content copied off other pages 11. Does not have empty pages with no original content 12. Does not have keyword stuffing 13. Does not use adult, dangerous, or derogatory content 14. Does not offer alcohol, tobacco, or healthcare-related content 15. Does not have aggressive or threatening content #### How to Integrate Ezoic to Your Website After making sure your website follows all of the requirements above, follow these steps to integrate [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/): 1. Create an account with [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) and follow the account creation wizard. 2. Enter your website’s name server to Ezoic by following the instructions in the email you have used to create an account with the software suite. To learn why you have to do this step, read it [here](https://ezoic.freshdesk.com/support/solutions/articles/48000454082-why-do-you-ask-me-to-change-nameservers-connect-with-ezoic-s-cdn-). 3. [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) will then check your website behind the scenes as part of its integration process. 4. If you do not see a green checkmark or a green label with “Integrated” as its text, do click the green text at the end of the pop-up and follow its instructions. 5. If you see a green checkmark or a green label with “Integrated” as its text, you can proceed to do the following: - Turn the system ‘on’ using a device. - Choose which percentage of traffic you would like the software suite to apply machine learning to. If it goes past step five, that means [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) is able to retrieve data from your website and will proceed to generate the necessary reports. These reports can be viewed once you go into the [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) application after logging in. Then, navigate to the Big Data Analytics section. ### Features of Ezoic’s Big Data Analytics This is a screenshot of the full list of reports that you can possibly get when you sign up for the appropriate [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) account: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/4Qe4r4tiIe0a77qMDOQz_9qkmLPwi8tbtM9N_1Sc9lqRLNojyjbWr2qBNYwdIHlWyif6CagksY4fW6rVGEoGX8LtocoH3wEQ7bKYmwBRA_uxXi6FiA-kQJ-0qq9bWul1AUpFORcH) For each report, you can also opt to check one site, compare two or more sites, or view all of your sites connected to the suite. Aside from that, you can also compare data before and during [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) integration as well. For specific details on each module and what to expect, read [this Help Article](https://support.ezoic.com/support/solutions/articles/48000453914-big-data-analytics-how-it-works). ## Tips on how to speed up your website After learning how to use [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) to monitor how well your website is going, let me show you my tips on how to improve it.  Want me to do it for you? Check out this product: - [ Sale Product on sale ![Speed up your WordPress site](/images/posts/inline/963b5221-pr-bundles.png) Speed up your WordPress site ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/site-speed-improvements/) ~$5,000~ Original price was: $5,000.$3,000Current price is: $3,000. Rated **5.00** out of 5 based on 2 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=4&lang=en&add-to-cart=27378) ### Tip # 1. Use a Content Delivery Network Having a Content Delivery Network (CDN) would help increase your site’s loading speed by [spreading its content](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/) across different servers across the globe that is closer to its visitors.  Let us say you own a DIY blog that gets 10,000 visitors every day and all its content is stored in one server. If all those 10,000 visitors were to go to it at once, it would increase the loading speed of everyone accessing it at once. Aside from that, that one server processing 10,000 requests at one time will also add to the loading speed at the same time. ### Tip # 2. Move your website to a better host Before I explain how this is a way to improve your website, let me define what is [web hosting](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/). Web hosting is a service that allows you to publish your website on the internet and to be seen by everyone else. There are four kinds: shared, Virtual Private Servers (VPS), dedicated, and serverless. Getting a shared hosting service is the cheapest and fastest way to get a website on the internet, in exchange for slower loading speed. Using this method involves you sharing CPU, disk space, and RAM with other sites within a server. Meanwhile, opting for the other two options are faster. VPS involves sharing a server with other users but you have your own virtual share of it while a dedicated one involves hiring a system administrator to take care of a server setup for your own website. Finally, the serverless option involves renting a dedicated cloud resource from any available public cloud provider like AWS, Microsoft, or Google. This offers you the flexibility to gain all resources necessary while adding unlimited scalability at the same time. Before investing in any kind of server type, do take your time to research how you can make your website profitable enough to make the move and maintain it for as long as you want. While you are at it, do check out my review of GoDaddy [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/) ### Tip # 3. Optimize the size of images on your website using ImageOptim One popular strategy to keep visitors coming and reduce your bounce rate is to add eye-catching images. Their addition to your website will help improve engagement such as subscribing to newsletters or buying a product. However, you should make sure that every image you add is not too big. Leaving it alone would significantly affect site speed in a negative way. There are many ways to reduce an image’s size without sacrificing its quality. In this tip, I will show you how to use ImageOptim and explain what image compression is. #### Understanding Image Compression Simply put, the act of reducing the total file size of an image with or without sacrificing its quality or dimensions is known as image compression. If you perform that while sacrificing its quality, it is called lossy compression. Preserving it is called image optimization.  A simple way of explaining image optimization is that it eliminates every redundant pixel in any image and replace it with an artifact that corresponds to a repeated line or chunk of pixels. Doing this is simple: it will increase the image’s loading speed, thus improving your website speed as a result. #### Using ImageOptim ImageOptim is a free software tool that can be used on Mac devices and can compress JPEG, PNG, and GIF files. Before using this software, do make sure to create a copy of the original photo you want the program to work with. Doing this will help you have a backup in case of emergencies. Now then, here are my steps on how to use the tool: 1. Open ImageOptim. 2. Upload photos to compress by drag-and-drop or clicking the + symbol to browse and select files. 3. Wait for the program to finish. 4. If a green checkmark appears next to the file, it means that it has been successfully optimized and you can see its new file size and how much it was able to shave off. 5. Else, do check what is wrong with it and try again from step 2. Aside from using this tool, you can read [this](https://havecamerawilltravel.com/photographer/image-optimization-imageoptim/) guide to learn how to customize the program to change its algorithm to how much optimization it should do. ### Tip # 4. Manage plugins using Jetpack (WordPress websites only) If you are one of the [many WordPress users](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) that made their website using a ton of plugins, it may take a while to maintain it by yourself. Aside from that, the larger the number of plugins, the longer a site loads at the same time. Make sure to add, remove, and edit the right ones for your website while it is live as it will keep you from getting new visitors in the future and returning visitors from the past. I would like to introduce you to [Jetpack](https://www.wp101.com/go/jetpack/), an all-in-one tool that includes a way to manage your content plugins. #### How to use Jetpack First, make sure to install and connect your Jetpack plugin to your site by going to *Plugins > Add New*. Then, search for *Jetpack* and click *Install Now* to add it easily. Then, once it’s successfully installed, you have to navigate to *Jetpack Settings > Appearance> Widget Visibility* to enable its Widget Visibility feature. After it is enabled, you can add, edit, and remove widgets by visiting *Customizer* > *Widgets*. There are two options that can be made for each widget. The first one asks you whether the widget should be hidden or shown while the second option lets you set the conditions as to how it will be shown or hidden. ### Tip # 5. Minifying JavaScript and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) After discussing image compression, this tip involves reducing the file size of JavaScript and CSS files. Let’s discuss each individually. #### JavaScript This file type has an extension of .js and it is used to allow more functionality in websites. Adding this file helps you do all sorts of things from submitting forms to hiding certain elements within the same page. If you have any of this file type, avoid having unnecessary lines of code and too many spaces in between lines. This will increase your website’s loading time as a result. There are three ways to do this: edit the .js files yourself, hire a web developer, or use a minifying tool. The first two options are straightforward. It is basically editing the files to remove said lines of code and remove unnecessary spaces. The third option involves getting a tool, whether free or not, that would automatically do it for you. There are many tools available, such as [Closure Compiler](https://closure-compiler.appspot.com/home) and [javascript-minifier](https://javascript-minifier.com/). #### Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) This file type is the reason your website looks pretty.  Ending in .css can affect your page in various ways such as aligning elements to changing its background colour. Reducing unnecessary spaces and lines will definitely keep your website’s theme look good as it is while shaving off its loading times. If you want to do this, you can also opt to edit them yourself, hire someone else to do it, or use a minifying tool. Editing it by yourself or by someone else would involve opening Notepad or another similar app and individually checking which lines to remove or not. Meanwhile, the last option not only helps you save time in updating your website but it also helps you avoid the mistake to delete an important line by accident. Some tools you can use for this filetype are [cssminifier.com](https://cssminifier.com/), [csscompressor.net](https://csscompressor.net/), and [minifycode.com](http://minifycode.com/). ### Tip # 6. Implement Gzip Compression After I showed you that reducing your website’s individual file sizes will decrease your website’s loading time, this tip will take the compression a step further. This will feature gzip as a file format. It is known as a method to compress files to increase server response time which will decrease website loading time as a result. How it works is that after a visitor uses their browser to load your website, Gzip puts all its contents into one file, compresses it, then sends it to the visitor’s browser. Then, the visitor’s browser decompresses the files and loads everything before showing it to them. In order to enable this feature for your website, do check [here](https://varvy.com/pagespeed/enable-compression.html) to know which code snippets for your specific configuration you would have to do. ### Tip # 7. Use website caching This tip involves the use of caching in order to reduce loading time for your visitors. Caching is defined as storing your website’s current version in a hosting service and presenting this version while updating it. It helps as it prevents any visitor from loading from scratch from any of their devices, which helps saves them time and reduces their bounce rate. This strategy does not only apply to assets such as background images and blog articles but also for retrieving data from your database too. Do take note that you can only apply this tip if you have not opted to publish your website using a shared server. It does not have this feature. If you opted for either VPS or a dedicated server, you can enable this by editing your settings and enabling this feature. Meanwhile, if your website has been implemented using WordPress, you can add in plugins such as [W3 Total Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/w3-total-cache/) or [W3 Super Cache](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-super-cache/). ### Tip # 8. Optimize database using a content management system (CMS) Remember that in my previous tip, I mentioned that caching is one of the ways to reduce loading time when loading data from your website’s database.  This tip specifically targets your website’s ability to retrieve data using CMS. It is a module that you can attach to your website that can increase your database capacity and store comments, blog posts, and other visitor-added content. An example of such an application is [WP-Optimize](https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-optimize/) for WordPress-made websites.  Do take note that if you want to make use of CMS applications that it may increase your website’s loading time in exchange for the storage capacity advantage. You can take a look at [this](https://www.hostinger.com/tutorials/best-cms) list to start looking for one that may fit your needs. ### Tip # 9. Reduce the use of web fonts A web font is defined as a font hosted in another server such as [Typography](https://www.typography.com/) or [Google Fonts](https://fonts.google.com/) where your website can access in its code in order to address the following: 1. Consistency: This has to do with keeping your website look the same across any device, whether mobile or PC. 2. Performance: This is linked to how fast your website will load all its assets to any visitor. 3. Resolution: This has to do with how your website will look like when its visitors zoom in into it using their mobile browsers or view it in a browser with a smaller width and height. 4. Availability: It comes into play as you want all your design elements to load properly to not only maintain your website’s consistent look but also prevent an increase in bounce rate. 5. Search engine rank: Following all the points above will increase your website’s search engine rank, which will increase your future visitor count. If you intend to use this on your website or if you are using them right now, you can optimize your site using these tips for web fonts: 1. Use modern formats such as WOFF2 for modern browsers 2. Avoid making use of character sets that will not be used on the site 3. Avoid adding font styles that will not be used for the site ### Tip # 10. Detect 404 errors 404 errors occur in websites if you are redirected to a page that does not exist. If you leave your website alone ridden with these, it will increase your bounce rate and decrease your chances of getting more visitors. Getting rid of this first starts with detecting where the errors are located within your entire website. You can do this by making use of tools such as [Link Sleuth](http://home.snafu.de/tilman/xenulink.html), [Google Webmaster Tools](https://www.google.com/webmasters/tools/home?hl=en), and [WordPress’ 404 Redirected Plugin](https://wordpress.org/plugins/404-redirected/) to spot them. After detecting these errors, the next step is to check how much traffic they receive. Now, if it does generate traffic, take the time to make a proper redirect to an existing page as soon as possible. One way to redirect an important 404 error is to redirect all expired external links to an active one. Another is fixing expired internal links to active internal links. ### Tip # 11. Reduce redirects This tip has to do with 404 errors, except it determines how many websites your visitors have to go through before ending up where they want to be. Think about it this way: if your visitors want to buy a bike off your website, but you configured your website to go through one or two of your links first before checking out, it would turn them off from buying it altogether. Solving this problem would involve you spotting which redirecting paths are too long throughout your website. Doing this involves using a widget like [Screaming Frog](http://www.screamingfrog.co.uk/seo-spider/) to identify them. The next step after learning which ones are too long is to trim them. For example, if you spot that going from site A to B involves going to site C and D, you have to link A to B and direct users to C and D in a more efficient way. ### Tip # 12. Make use of prefetching I have introduced a way to speed up your website in a previous tip in this article called caching, which involves storing all its content in a server. This tip makes use of another technique called prefetching. It is defined as anticipating how your visitors will navigate through your website and loading the content before they would navigate to the next page. There are three types of prefetching you can apply to your website: 1. DNS-prefetching – resolving domains into IP addresses in advance 2. Link prefetching – loading the next page in the background before showing it to the visitor when they click on a link 3. Prerendering – loading an entire page or some elements before showing it to the visitor If you want to opt for this method, you would have to add deep [user behavior analysis](https://www.altexsoft.com/blog/datascience/customer-experience-personalization-in-travel-and-hospitality-using-behavioral-analytics-and-machine-learning/) for your website before applying any of these methods. ## Summing up! I showed you why it is important to make your website load faster. Simply put, this can help increase your visitor numbers and search results. I also talked about some of the tips you can adopt for your website’s better performance. I hope that these tips will help your website rank higher in search results. To learn more about how to make your website better, do read these articles: - [A comparison of Wix Vs. Squarespace](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) - [Review of BigCommerce: Features, pros & cons](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-review/) - [Review of BuzzSumo: Pricing and features](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzsumo-review/) What do you think about these tips? Do leave a comment below on how your website improved using what I wrote or let me know if you use any other awesome method to improve your website speed. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 7 Easy Steps Of Making Money From Facebook: A Beginner’s Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/7-easy-steps-of-making-money-from-facebook-a-beginners-guide/ Published: 2020-10-21 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Facebook is the most lucrative social media platform, with over 2.6 billion users worldwide. Marketers love Facebook as there is an available audience base for any product or service you cater to. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Facebook is the most lucrative social media platform, with over 2.6 billion users worldwide. Marketers love Facebook as there is an available audience base for any product or service you cater to. Besides the social aspect, Facebook has proven itself to be a great tool for promoting businesses and boosting sales. Besides business presence and awareness-building opportunities, Facebook also has a lot to offer to independent bloggers, freelancers, and budding digital enthusiasts. How about considering your passion for Facebook to generate a side income or even earning full-time revenue? I am sharing a few tips here that will help you start monetizing your Facebook presence. ## **Few Ideas For Earning Money Through Facebook** There are many ways in which you can [use this platform to your advantage](https://www.pulseproject.co/). There is no fixed rulebook that gives you a sure-shot way of going about creating wealth from Facebook. However, Facebook is open to experimentation. By being creative and observant, anyone can earn some extra money through Facebook. Wear your thinking hats and read through the blog to get into the momentum. Relevant: Read everything you need to know about Facebook marketplace [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/) ## **1\. Monetize your Facebook page** You must be wondering why people spend so much time and effort on Facebook pages and keeping it regularly updated. Well, that’s because a simple Facebook page can help you earn good bucks. Firstly start-off by deciding what your Facebook page would be all about. I suggest catering to a particular niche and choosing a vertical that you are rather good at. Food, travel, technology, fashion, gaming, pet care are a few examples of pages that people create for the enthused audiences. It’s now time to create interesting content and publish it on the Facebook page for which you can start creating video content [right here](https://invideo.io/make/online-movie-maker/) on any niche you think of. To grow your page organically, you need to curate content that intrigues Facebookers and compels them to follow you for similar updates. The process of earning ‘followers’ does not happen overnight, though. Once you have collected a decent targeted follower base on your Facebook page, you may be approached by brands in a similar business and pay you for featuring their brand on your Facebook page. [Collaborating with brands](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-facebook-polls-engaging/) is an excellent way to earn revenue. Facebook pages also earn money through affiliate marketing. Famous brands like amazon are up for affiliation with pro Facebookers who have the know-how and dedicated time to grow the affiliate page on Facebook. ## **2\. Earn through Facebook Ads**      If you take a special interest in creating videos and are good at it, then Facebook throws an opportunity right at you. Create a Facebook page for publishing all the video content that you generate. The content could be anything like DIY videos or explainer videos that educate the audiences. Give Facebook permission to monetize your videos by running third-party online Facebook video Ads on your videos or directly use [InVideo](https://invideo.io/make/facebook-video-ads/) and start sharing on FaceBook. But before you can start earning money, you need to do some work. Your page needs to have collected at least 10,000 followers, and your videos should have over 30,000 viewers that have streamed around one minute of content. The minimum length of each video you publish must be three minutes or longer. ## **3\. Sell products on Facebook directly to earn money** You must have noticed an ‘offers’ section on your Facebook pages. This section allows page owners to make an offer, or in simple words, advertise a product for sale, along with its offer price. To make your appeal interesting, add coupon codes, give exclusive discounts to followers, and accept special bulk orders. Depending upon your page’s popularity, brands may ask you to sell their product via your Facebook page and give you a commission on every sale.  ## **4\. Earn via the Facebook marketplace** Facebook marketplace is much like a virtual market where buyers and sellers come together to benefit themselves. Millions of retailers reach out to their customers on the Facebook marketplace, allowing their customers to shop from home comfortably. It is convenient for users to filter out & compare products by category, price range, and location before purchasing. This is a great place to connect with local wholesale suppliers to get a cheap deal from them and sell it to the consumer by adding your percentage premium.   ## **5\. Become a Facebook Influencer to make money** If you are a digital sensation, use your popularity to earn money from Facebook. An influencer is often looked-upon by many with admiration. Thus, your fans will be more than happy to try out the product or service you recommend via your personal Facebook page. Many influencers are paid decently and asked to talk about their experience of using a product introduced in the market. In this way, brands can get access to millions of trustworthy audiences who follow the influencer’s page on Facebook and spread the word about their products. This form of advertising is fun, engaging, impactful, and benefits all the stakeholders involved. Influencers who are self-sufficient in video production and have decent editing skills, develop the know-how to use various online tools like video editor for Mac. This will most likely help them earn an edge over other freelance influencers. Being an influencer, you can also sponsor online Facebook Ads to earn more followers. Also read 5 ways of becoming a trusted influencer [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-to-become-a-trusted-influencer/) ## 6\. **Use Facebook Groups to your monetary advantage**  Facebook users often follow a number of groups to be actively involved with the ongoing discussions and topics of their interest. Facebook groups bring like-minded people together to discuss, get answers to queries, and share experiences. This virtual community has the potential of contributing to a sizable business. If you are an admin of a group and have attracted the right target audiences to be a part of your group, no one can stop you from making a buck. Marketers connect with group admins and pay to publish their product posts on the group. Admins can fix the ‘per post’ amount and allocate days on which advertising is permitted on the group. The group shouldn’t solely become an advertising portal and should maintain its agenda of connecting people.    ## **7\. Make a buck by creating Facebook Apps** If you have hands-on experience in creating Apps, then use this skill to your advantage. You can design apps for a particular database or defined audience on Facebook. Get your app approved and run third-party banner ads on the app to earn money. If your app is unique and addresses an unattended issue, then you may earn yourself a buyer who wishes to purchase the app. This could make you an independent freelance app developer with the potential of earning handsome money for your efforts.  ## **To Wrap up!** We have seen how you can use Facebook to your advantage and make money in many different ways. However, all good things take time and persistent efforts. It takes time to build a considerable image on Facebook, and if you are patient enough to follow-through, you will be rewarded eventually. If you found this article helpful, read other useful posts here: - [How to utilize Instagram to scale your video marketing efforts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-utilize-instagram-to-scale-your-video-marketing-efforts/) - [Penji Review: How does it work and who is it for?](https://alejandrorioja.com/penji-review/) - [The best growth marketing techniques: Benefits & tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-best-growth-hacking-marketing-techniques/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Start A Blog: A Beginners’ Guide To Get Started! Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/start-a-blog/ Published: 2020-09-23 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Marketing, affiliate marketing, how to blog ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. When I started my blog, the only way I learned all the smart blogging tricks and techniques was through trial and error and to be honest during my early days, I was all over the place with my content and ideas. If you are reading this, I am certain you want to start a blog but not sure how or where to begin! So I am glad you are here as this guide will help you to learn about blogging and what options you have if you plan to use it for personal and business use.  So, what is a blog? Read below.   ## What is a Blog A blog can be considered as an online journal that has its very own website. Blogs can be a combination of visual content like photos, videos, and text content.  Blogs can be used for either personal or business use depending on the blog owner. It can also be set to private and open status to a select group of people, or it can be open to the public to read.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/FcnDT14Ks1gse0YTHnAggQ7w7TdLe3aNju0BDytVfGaEI_-lbCBGPB9uzhaNgO1vUdDqowbt1_YkcwKWEBxCp58cYILrMVmjYinxBC5ueMNE-c94ulilKCgA1_hPbrWqR95aEtyJ) If the blog is set as public, it is accessible for everyone to sift through your blog entries. Blogs can also appear as one whole page or a full website that has one or more pages. Today, the bloggers have umpteen options to add content and media to their blog through a variety of plugins and widgets besides engaging in every post.  Relevant: Read about the [evolution of blogging](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/) here ## Why Do People Blog? Every blog has a different purpose which is reflected in the content. But, there are six major reasons why people blog.  1. To showcase what they love – For some blog users, they use their blogs to share what they love. It could be art, music, photography or entertainment. Each post opens the user to other people who share their passion and discuss it with them.  2. To teach others – Others use their blogs to teach people about their specialties. They can post tutorials or share their tips about various subjects which others may like to use in their daily life. Bloggers can also answer questions about topics and offer their solutions.  3. To get exposure – For businesses and influencers, blogs are a great way to get people to check their content and influence people through their platforms. This is where influencers and affiliate marketing come into play. If you want to know more about affiliate marketing, [check my guide here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/).  4. To be recognized as an expert – If a blogger wants to be recognized as an expert in their chosen field, they can use their blog to build their career. As they share information and answer questions about the industry, they will start getting recognized and lead to opportunities to be known worldwide.  5. To be on the first page in the Search Engines – In Google or any other search engines, it can be difficult to put a site on the first page of its search results. With blogging, users can utilize keywords to attract people to their site and convert them as followers.  6. To share content – People are now looking at blogs as a great source for information, especially if they are talking about products and new places other people have not seen before. As posts get shared and viewed, it will allow the blog to get more traffic and exposure.  ## Benefits of blogging Like journal or diary writing, blogging can actually benefit people in more ways than one.  Here are all the ways it can benefit you:  1. It helps you build your identity and let people know you are trustworthy – whether you blog for personal or business intent, your information is received by the world. It also allows you to control what the public can see about your profile and let them see the content you want to share.  2. It can teach you new things – Blogging helps people learn more about their chosen niche because if you want people to follow you, you need to know what you are writing about. You will also learn how to market your content and design it to make it more appealing to viewers.  3. It will help you improve your writing – As you write about your chosen topic, you will definitely develop a writing style that people can understand and analyze easily. It also causes your creative juices flowing because you have to write unique content that appeals to many people.  4. It can inspire you to learn a new language – If you are trying to learn a second language, blogging can help you practice. You can write your blog in your second language and slowly learn how to write with the new words you are learning. It will help you learn more about website development – In blogging, you not only have to develop the written or visual content you want to share but also have to develop a website that will house your content. So you will learn more about the intricacies of website development and gain the key skills needed to maintain your blog and keep it up-to-date. You can learn these key skills through online tutorials and other blogs talking about it.  5. It opens opportunities for you to connect – [With your content](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/), blogging will help you reach out to other people who love the same content as you do. People will also get to know you when they search for content since they will see what you posted about the topic. If your content is something that they can use and trust, they will thank you for your work and even start engagement as they start following your content.  6. It will help you get recognized for your skills – You can never call yourself an expert if other people do not recognize your work. As people start recognizing your work, you will be acknowledged by companies and businesses alike regarding the industry and start asking you questions. You may even get some good speaking gigs,  thanks to your blog content.  7. It can open job opportunities – Blogging can also open a lot of job opportunities you may not have considered before. If your writing is very good, you can become a full-time author. Some people may even reach out to you for job offers that are related to your niche.  8. It can expand your business – Blogs can also grow as business websites depending on how you design them. You can talk about a certain industry that you like to support, offer your opinion about it and wait for people to see the worth of your work. You can also sell your products and services or even content through your blog.  9. It can help you get feedback – Since a blog allows people to comment on each post, your readers can give you their opinion about your content. These reviews can be either positive or negative, which will help you grow and improve your content. The feedback can also open opportunities for both you and your readers to communicate.  10. It gives you freedom – there are of course restrictions when using social media sites like Twitter if you want to talk about a lot of subjects. With blogging, you can write whatever you want and not have to worry about your site being blocked, because you have complete ownership and authority on your own domain and site, unlike social media platforms.  ## What Platforms can be used for Blogs? For people who wish to start a blog, they have several blog platforms to choose from. Each blog platform has its pros and cons depending on what you want these blog sites to stand for your business or brand.  Ideally, when you are choosing a platform for your blog, you have to consider what kind of blog you will be making and how you want it to be in the future. You should also look into the features it has to make your blog designed to fit your needs.  Here is a list of the most popular blog platforms currently used for blogs for either personal or business purposes:  1. Blogger 2. WordPress.com 3. Tumblr 4. Medium 5. Wix 6. Squarespace 7. Gator 8. Constant Contact Website Builder 9. Ghost 10. WordPress.org Since WordPress is a platform I personally vouch for and [there are all the features that make it great](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/), so here are a few tips on how you can set up your blog with WordPress.com and Medium and how you can self-host your blog.  ## How to Setup a Free Blog with WordPress Established in 2005, WordPress.com is now one of the most commonly used platforms to design and host your blog. It is very easy to set up and free to use, making it one of the most popular blog platforms for beginners to use.  To build your free blog with WordPress.com, you can following steps: ### Registration: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/GS0-ROZyprInQDcxH6CSAFJHrEWWThIADcODIiE8d9d4MIh9FDItIhKvLaZYUTAkQv2q97nENP0toC3UvZcsMniACF2CVWQ3k2Zys_YZa-oW8GcIf4vdBtJwJHZ2cjk36ZMFb2An) 1. Go to WordPress.com and select “[Get Started](https://wordpress.com/start/?ref=logged-out-homepage-lp)”  2. Sign up for the service using your email address. Enter your desired username, which must be unique and represent your brand. To finalize your registration, put in a password and click “Create your account” 3. In the next page, you will be asked to put in the details of your blog such as its name, niche and it will even ask you about your goals for your website and if you are comfortable setting up the page yourself. When you finish answering these questions, click “Continue” to proceed.  4. The next page will ask you about your blog’s URL. Users have the option to buy their own domain or use the free URL that ends with “home.blog”. You can be very creative with your site’s URL using the free domain, but just remember it should be easy to remember and reflect your site’s brand.  5. Confirm your email address and follow the next steps to set up your blog.  ### Setting Up Your Blog ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/PYOSrk0ZbX9OAMpsKxVtahH94J18_5Tdnb0n0_2XQay3mHc7KXVv2Mn4hPUUXX92uoXqT1-thsDRhajZTLCOP1VoDEBRimERa6yex7C8-49rCiUKrb_B0mPk6dADDyuI-7kmx81E) 1. After verifying your account, you will be redirected to your WordPress dashboard where you can organize everything for your blog from its content to design.  2. To edit your WordPress layout or theme, click Appearance and then Themes to look for the layout that fits your blog. WordPress.com has several blog themes available for free to fit all sorts of blogs. If you want to check how it looks without having to apply it to your site, select “Live Preview.” If you like the theme, click “Save and Activate” and wait for it to be applied on your site. Alternatively, you can easily click “Activate” on the Themes page if you already saw the blog theme you want to use for your blog.  3. To edit key parts of your blog, you can click on “Settings” and then “General Settings” to change what is displayed when people see your site. Edit the details provided such as the name which appears on your site’s header and tagline, author details and how the dates will be written. If you are happy with your changes, click “Save.” 4. To add widgets to give your site more ways to share content, you can go to “Appearance” and then “Widgets.” Widgets are plugins that help the site become more functional and keep readers interested in the blog. You can adjust what your readers can see when they access the main page and add things like a Facebook Like box, Archives, Subscription form, and so on. You can skip this if you want to keep your site plain.  - If you have selected widgets to keep your site functional, you can drag them to the drop-down list in the right-hand portion of the dashboard and arrange them according to your taste. It will save automatically once they are in these areas.  - View the widgets in action by checking your website.  5. When the site is ready in terms of its design and functions, it is time to post your new blog entry.  ### Posting for the First Time ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/beP7OyYuZtEsb3X67O1SKtrurqoASospVgilcO6jnQw6DCmxN02Byou9g4eRr-ZuGzBxuFV8hHUJqs7uVwMLelAW2rKuLeDDdkLJP8N3kkcMD9Oc_3oRW1xVY45zveeQAhVkVDEu) - Before you post on your website, remove the sample post that is currently being displayed on the site. You can do this by going to Posts and look for the sample post. Click delete to remove it.  - To add a new blog post, click “Add New” and type your content. You can embed photos, music clips and videos on your blog entry if you want to include some.  - While typing, always click on the “Save Draft” button to ensure you don’t have to start from the top in case you get disconnected or something happens with the platform.  - To view your entry before posting, click the “Preview” button which is in the same box as the “Publish” button. If you are satisfied, make sure to click “Publish.” ### Setbacks with using a free WordPress blog Although WordPress.com is a great starting blog platform for beginners, it does have some limitations which may not be ideal if you want to use the blog as your main homepage.  Here are the limitations you can expect from a free WordPress blog: 1. You cannot use the blog to run Google Adsense and other plugins to monetize your blog. While WordPress does have WordAds (it’s equivalent of Adsense), it has a very strict set of requirements and you have to share your revenue with the site.  2. You have a small list of plugins and themes that you can use to give your site more functionality and style. You also cannot upload plugins or themes which are available on WordPress.org.  3. WordPress can cancel your blog at any time if your content is against their terms of service. Users won’t even get a notice that their account is canceled until they check their blog.  4. Users are limited when it comes to how they can develop their blogs since it does not have the same CMS features that WordPress.org offers.  ## Free Blog or a Paid Blog When you sign up with WordPress, you will see a paid and free option when you build your blog with them. Their paid option comes in four different plans which cater to personal use, freelancers, eCommerce, and Business.  If you are a new blogger, it is ideal that you start off with a free blog until you get used to WordPress’ interface and get people into your site. It would not be ideal to get a paid blog if you do not have a steady following that would support your site.  Once you do have a stable following, you can switch your account options with WordPress.com and pay for the right plan you need.  ## How to Setup a Blog with Medium [Medium](https://medium.com/seo-marketing/stories/published) is one of the newest blogging platforms available online for bloggers to try out. It was established in 2012 and it is the go-to blog platform for journalists, experts, and bloggers alike.  Many say it is great to blog with Medium if you tend to write long articles and want to keep things simple. It is also considered by some as a more serious blogging platform since experts use the site to curate their content.  Here are the steps you need to follow to set up a blog with Medium: ### Sorting your Account 1. Create your account by visiting Medium.com and click the “Get Started” button or the “Sign in/ Sign Up” button. You can sign in the platform with your Facebook, Google and Twitter account if you don’t want to use your email address.  2. Fill up the details that will be requested from you like you are making a new social media page such as your profile, profile photo, and social media pages. If you used your social media account to make your profile, Medium will copy your profile to your Medium account.  3. The site will then ask you to list down which accounts or content you wish to follow much like a Twitter feed. You can also list down the tags you want to follow and once you are done, you are ready to check out Medium.  ### Posting for the First Time 1. You can access the text editor from the Medium homepage by typing at the “Write here…” located in the middle of the page or clicking the “Write a Story” link at the top right-hand side of the page.  2. When you access the text editor, you can type your content and format it based on your preferences. You can also use the drop caps available to edit as you write and add photos or videos to add to your story.  3. Save the draft to review your work and click the “Share” button if you want people to review your work. Click on “Publish” if you are ready to share your work with the rest of the community.  - To view your views, you can check it at [medium.com/me/stats](https://medium.com/me/stats). ### Setbacks in using Medium as a blog platform While Medium appeals to those who do not want to worry too much about formatting their blog site, there are a few setbacks when using Medium.  Here are the disadvantages you may experience when using Medium: 1. You cannot customize the page to match your brand’s style. There are no plug-ins that will allow you to add more functions to your blog.  2. You cannot monetize your blog because the site doesn’t run on ads.  3. Users are also not allowed to use their own domains for their account because the site itself runs similar to a social media page like Facebook.  4. If your blog is closed, you will lose any contact you may have with your contacts. Medium can review your site and close it at any time.  ## How to set up a Self-hosted blog If your blog is growing and you want to personalize it even further, you may want to consider getting a self-hosted blog.  In a self-hosted blog, you will be hosting your blog on a different server and customize it from scratch. Various hosts are also allowing users to pick what kind of blogging platform they can use when they sort out their website.  Most self-hosted blogs use WordPress.org for their blog site. Unlike WordPress.com, WordPress.org offers more control over what the site will be like and it is even search engine friendly.  Here’s how you can set up your self-hosted blog using WordPress.Org as your blog platform: ### Setting Up Your Host 1. Find the ideal hosting provider that will allow you to build your site based on your needs and budget. Some of the hosting providers you can try out are [BlueHost](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/), HostGator, [GoDaddy](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/), and Dreamhost.  2. When you choose the host for your site, sign up for an account and select the right plan that fits your budget. Remember that each plan may have limited features, which may be important for your blog.  3. A majority of hosting sites allow users to buy their domain name with their hosting plan. Make sure that your domain name fits your blog content and brand when checking if it is available.  4. When the account is complete, log in to your cPanel or hosting control panel to start installing WordPress.  ### Installing WordPress ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/QTSYHIGD4_hvpWtxG8hMw6L4jQIgmEWyYFkVF_gT_TlYpPKXZR7vZGOMIKbdxxLegBv49mt3v8EVzYPRetSN2kl9RaA4VpnCl0-FQfzzwWFYkJaK-geE2ELrAPH4RF1qa0K6A1gX) 1. When you are in your cPanel, you can install WordPress via Softaculous, an auto-installer script. You can modify the details of your blog and let the installer do everything for you.  2. If you are using BlueHost, look for their “My Sites” section and look for the “Create Site” button. The installer wizard will guide you through the installation setup and even offer you free plug-ins that you can use for the site.  3. If you know FTP, you can do the installation manually. Use your FTP client to upload the [latest version of WordPress.org](https://wordpress.org/download/) to your domain easily and when it is done, you can modify it through your cPanel account.  ### Modifying Your Blog 1. Like WordPress.com, a self-hosted blog using WordPress.org uses the same dashboard which is very easy to understand.  2. To modify the theme, you can go to “Appearances” and “Themes” where you can select the available layouts installed with the platform, search WordPress’ theme directory or add your own theme. Activate the theme that you like and get editing! 3. WordPress.org has an extensive plugin library that users can use for their site. Of course, you should do your research before you use them because some plug-ins may affect your site’s speed.  ### Starting Off Your First Entry Starting off your first entry is similar to how you do it in WordPress.com. Simply click “Add New” or go to “Posts” and “Add New” to start writing.  ### Things to remember with using a self-hosted blog If you decide on using a self-hosted blog, you need to consider a lot of things to ensure that you can maximize its potential.  Before you sort out your host, do your research as to which hosting site will help you set up everything that you need. If you will be using WordPress.Org as your blog platform, many recommend Bluehost because it has an easy-to-install wizard for new bloggers to enjoy.  You should also check if your content will fit the blogging platforms available for you. Aside from WordPress, there are other blogging platforms used in websites and it may require technical knowledge to get them formatted for your needs.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IwEqrMDkSw4H__8ahl5mdVDfYi5VOWmDUqC0z1sCh8qUfKuYv6iTmfYPH-4skmsFrj6WptecKxZ6XII1-OMI7uSP0P0eAeLw_PigEA0-DqwEoGfWmf0idjRkAmFTWqDAxF097erf) When it comes to its security, self-hosted WordPress is actually very secure. Major hosting sites regularly check their servers for any security threat and inform you about these threats.  If you plan to create a second blog, getting a self-hosted blog is best because your hosting site will let you host “unlimited” websites in your account so long as it fits your space requirement.  You will need to be careful when sorting out your self-hosted blog because one wrong installation can make it difficult to get your site online. You also need to read up on SEO and basic troubleshooting in WordPress in case your site suddenly becomes slow or gets filled with errors.  Of course, you should always pay your hosting package to keep your site active. If your account is unpaid, your hosting site may disable your blog until you pay for it.  ### Use your blog wisely once it is active and think before you publish your blog post!  ## Wrapping up! Blogs are now becoming the “it” thing to do if you want to share a part of your life with the rest of the world. If you do not have one, you should consider opening one, especially if you want to reach out to a target audience.  If you want to get started in blogging and know more about it, here are other great articles to inspire you:  - [Your Guide to contact bloggers and contributors](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) - [What are sponsored Blog Posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/sponsored-blog-posts/) - [Your Guide to Sponsored blog posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/sponsored-blog-posts/) If you found this blog post helpful, make sure you leave a comment below or message me on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) in case you want me to cover other topics in the next post. You can also add me to [my social media accounts](https://instagram.com/youngslacker) and when you do, let me know where you found me! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Penji Review: How Does It Work And Who Is It For? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/penji-review/ Published: 2020-09-21 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* Graphic design is vital for development, and each experienced business owner can attest to that. But, they can also depict you that hiring an excellent graphic designer is a bit challenging. Although this might be the case, you don’t have to worry because [on-demand graphic design services](https://alejandrorioja.com/canva-review/) are everywhere now. You can observe that many businesses turn to them, and this kind of service is transforming the industry little by little.  You may find it quite hard to choose among many companies that offer quality and affordable work but worry no more because we are taking a closer look at [Penji](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) and their complete graphic design services. Let’s review how they work and what you can benefit from it.  [![](/images/posts/inline/6df35a54-penji-discount.png)](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) ## What is Penji? ![](/images/posts/inline/1c9f4608-screenshot-penji.co-2020.09.21-18_15_58.png) [Penji](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) is an unlimited graphic service or platform that bridges you to the top 2% of the graphic designers worldwide. It offers you unique visual design models that can surely fit your needs. You can meet the growing demands of your business or organization’s internal team and clients by receiving a creative output from a design team without the expense of an overhead cost.  You can get custom-made design works at a fixed rate every month, such as flyers, logos, UX/UI, etc. This type of service is a significant added resource for your teams to enhance productivity. It sounds promising and helpful, especially for businesses, agencies, and marketers that need it.  Also read: [The top free stock photo sites in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/free-stock-photo-sites/) ## How Does It Work? ![](/images/posts/inline/7fd63483-screenshot-penji.co-2020.09.21-18_16_56.png) After knowing what [Penji](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) is, you might be curious and want to check how it works. Here is a step-by-step guide you can refer to when you want to access Penji’s graphic design platform.  1. You should sign up or log in at Penji to start. 2. You need to create your design project on Penji’s dashboard. 3. Fill out the form provided containing your project title, design category, project description, attachments, customization level, file deliverables, and associated brands.  4. Once you have finished filling out the form, Penji’s system automatically assigns your request, depending on your chosen design category. Penji’s designers can cater to any graphic design type you require them to do.  5. If the designer finishes the project, you get your first draft of your request. You can send some feedback if you want changes with the work. Penji offers unlimited revisions as part of your plan. 6. When you are satisfied with the completed project, you can download your design and send your next project in line.  7. You only have to check your dashboard to get a notification once the designer finishes it.  ## Who Can Use Penji? ![](blob:https://alejandrorioja.com/3ddae803-05b4-4fba-87f8-3e0ca3faed57) Based on their website, [Penji](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) has partnered with over a thousand companies, such as small businesses, coworking spaces, and nonprofit organizations. They even have partnered with known brands, such as Reebok. This thought exhibits how dynamic Penji is and how flexible they are in making designs. Here are some entities that can obtain and use Penji graphic design services. ### [Agencies](https://penji.co/agencies/?affiliate=ALEJANDRO15) If you are an agency with a lot on their plate, you can turn to Penji for help. You don’t need to hire extra individuals to do the work for you. Instead, Penji can be the secret weapon that provides you with the best graphic designers to meet your requirements. They have a 24/7 global team that is always available to give your designs within 24 to 48 hours. With Penji, you have the free will to cancel your subscription anytime and get back whenever you need the service again. ### [Small Businesses](https://penji.co/small-businesses/?affiliate=ALEJANDRO15) As a business owner who needs some advertising materials to promote your business in the market, Penji is there for you. You can skip the hassle and prevent any waste on time and effort to recruit graphic designers yourself. With Penji’s in-house designers, you can receive quality graphic design services at a fraction of the cost.  ### [Startups](https://penji.co/startups/?affiliate=ALEJANDRO15) For individuals or entities who have just started and want to improve their advertising materials to capture your target audience, Penji can do the work for you. You can submit any design projects as you wish, such as your business cards, logo, website or application designs, etc.  ### [Marketing Teams](https://penji.co/marketing-teams/?affiliate=ALEJANDRO15) Penji is your on-demand graphic design platform if you are a marketing team and wants a better option than outsourcing designers. With Penji’s multiple-user feature, depending on your plan, you can add your marketing team members. You can also set their permissions and get more work done. ### Bloggers/Social Media Influencers Penji is the absolute [answer for bloggers](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-to-become-a-trusted-influencer/) who needs images and visual representations in their blog articles. You don’t need to utilize stock photos anymore because they are at your service. You can check their works and see what wonders they can do for you. If you are one of those social media influencers who practically wants to post graphic designs that can catch the public’s eye, sign up for Penji. Make your social media posts more engaging and exciting through Penji’s graphic designers’ help.  ## What Can You Request From Penji? [Penji](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) renders an unlimited graphic design service, which means they can create as many design projects you want and assign the best designers. If you are thinking about what Penji’s team of designers can offer you, note these design types.  1. App design 2. Brochures 3. Business cards 4. Catalogs 5. Custom illustrations 6. Infographics 7. Logos 8. Websites 9. Logos 10. Package design 11. Print materials 12. Social media graphics 13. T-shirts The previously mentioned are just a few types of designs they can make. When you want them to customize something for you, you can always inquire about their services. ## Penji’s Plan And Pricing ![](/images/posts/inline/b56002b5-screenshot-penji.co-2020.09.21-17_55_28.png) On their website, you can see that Penji has three available plans that you can choose: Pro, Team, and Agency. Each pricing program has its corresponding perks. You can check below the breakdown of [Penji’s plan and pricing](https://penji.co/pricing/) and what are their inclusions: - **Pro** [Penji’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) pro plan has a price of $399 per month. It says on the website that it offers graphic design only. This price range includes unlimited design projects, unlimited brands, one Penji designer, and two users. - **Team** Priced at $499 per month is the team plan of Penji. Acknowledge that this price can render you with graphic design, illustration, and UX/UI design. With this plan, you can experience unlimited design projects, 24/7 customer support, one Penji designer, five users, unlimited brands, custom illustrations, infographics, and website and app design. - **Agency** Another plan that Penji offers is the agency, which costs $899 per month. The agency plan comprises the perks, such as unlimited design projects, 24/7 customer support, prioritized support, two Penji designers, ten users, unlimited brands, custom illustrations, infographics, and website and app design. On Penji’s website, this plan exhibits that it suits team plans and doubles the client’s output. The usual things you can see among the three plans are the following: 1. Unlimited design projects 2. Unlimited stock photography  3. Unlimited revisions 4. Unlimited brands Penji provides a 15-day 100% money-back guarantee for all their monthly plans. Moreover, they stress out that they have no contracts attached to you, so you can cancel the subscription anytime you want. By the time you opt to stop the plan, there is a guarantee that you won’t pay for services that you are not utilizing.  If you are looking for an exclusive deal, Penji has got you covered. Use **ALEJANDRO15** to get a 15% discount. ## The Pros And Cons Of Penji After knowing what [Penji](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) is, how it works, its plan and pricing, and other details, you may have already visioned how Penji can help you. To aid you in your decision-making, here are the following pros and cons that you may encounter while obtaining their complete graphic design services. ### Pros - Budget-Friendly You can observe that hiring someone to make you a simple but quality logo can cost around a hundred to a thousand dollars. You may find an inexpensive service, but it can likely also offer you a cheap design. With Penji, for as low as $399 a month, you can obtain various graphic design types that indeed fit your needs. Additionally, they don’t have any hidden charges, so you will only pay for your monthly subscription fee. - No Contract Means No Commitment Since Penji doesn’t bind you in any agreement or contracts, you can be sure that you have the liberty to put an end to your subscription anytime if you must. Whether you are a marketing team, an agency, a small business owner, or a startup, this is preferable, especially when you go hiatus. Once you stop your monthly subscription, you are free from any payment obligations.  - High-Quality And Creative Designs [Penji](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) emphasizes that they hire 2% of the best designers worldwide. This claim might be valid because if you see their sample completed works, you can tell that they meet your expectations. With Penji having high-quality and creative designs, this may be something that makes them unique. Apart from this, they also have a quick response service along with their works. - Penji People Are Friendly And Accommodating Everyone in Penji looks glad to serve you. From their account managers until the designers who make your request, they all seem friendly and accommodating. You will be surprised at how quick and easy to reach them no matter the day’s time. They usually handle most requests or inquiries for around 24 to 48 hours.  ### Cons - Not Preferable If You Don’t Have Much Design Needs If you don’t have much design needs, you might have to think deeply first before signing up for Penji. Since it offers a monthly subscription plan, you expect that you pay for fees every month. If you can’t use the opportunity to submit design projects as frequently as you can, then one logo might cost you $399 a month.  - Communication Is Through Emails Only If you are the type who prefers communication through phone calls and chat, you might be disappointed. The communication between you and Penji’s designers is only via emails. Since you need to give a well-written description regarding your requested design project, individuals who find it difficult to state their ideas by writing may see this situation a bit challenging.  ## An Advice To Penji First Time Users Once you have decided to opt for Penji’s graphic design services, you may consider a few takeaways as a first-time user. The following are some tips you can keep in mind to make the most out of your Penji subscription: 1. Write a clear, detailed, and comprehensive design project description to save time from revisions. 2. You can load your other requests in the queue while waiting for the current project to finish. 3. Practice checking and monitoring your Penji dashboard, so you get your project updates instantly. 4. Allow Penji designers to discuss their ideas with you because they are individuals who are experts in the field of graphic design. 5. Try to give your Penji designer feedback, mostly when they have made you high-quality and outstanding completed works.  [![](/images/posts/inline/2ea535d6-penji-discount-1.png)](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/penji/) ## Bottom line Suppose you are an agency, a small business owner, or a marketer who needs a graphic design service that saves you from headache. In that case, Penji’s in house professional designing team is there. Penji lessens your hassle about minding your design projects, such as great UI. With them, viewing your project’s revisions online and entering feedback directly on images is easy and convenient compared to Design Pickle, whose user interface is relatively below par.  Highlighting Penji’s pros, you can practically gain affordable, high-quality, reliable, accommodating, and quick graphic design services for as low as a monthly subscription fee of $399.  If you found this article helpful, check other useful guides and reviews here: - [How does a custom software development company work?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-a-custom-software-development-company/) - [Your guide to creating the first adwords ad](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-creating-your-first-adwords-ad/) - [Comparison of Joomla Vs. WordPress](https://alejandrorioja.com/joomla-vs-wordpress-comparison/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Can A Custom Software Development Company Help Your Firm? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-a-custom-software-development-company/ Published: 2020-09-17 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Every company uses software for various business processes. Some may only be used for minor actions, whereas some others are the backbone of your business operations. The software that forms the crux of your business operations can make or break your business.  You must choose the right software. But what to do when you cannot find the right software? What if the ones already in the market fall short of meeting your requirements ultimately? What are your options?  Custom software development can come to your rescue. Custom software is developed only for your firm. Therefore, you dictate the requirements. You can tell the development team about the features it should have and the platform it should be on.  The software will be tailor-made to meet your requirements. Since it is developed just for your firm, it will not be commercial software.           There are two ways to get your custom software. You can either ask your internal team to develop the software or hire a company that specializes in developing custom software such as [XB software](https://www.devteam.space/alternatives-competitors-pricing-review/xb-software-review-alternatives-and-competitors/).  The first option only works if you are a software or IT-based firm and already have in-house developers. Even then, hiring a custom software development company can offer significant benefits to your firm. Are you wondering how a custom software development company can help your firm? Read on to know more! ## Specialized Team A custom software development company comprises of skilled developers who are well-versed in various programming languages and software platforms. Just as you specialize in a particular product or service, they specialize in developing multiple software. When you get an in-house team to develop the software, you are limited by their knowledge. Unless you are a software company, the IT staff may only be aware of a few languages, and you are forced to choose from among those.  However, when you hire a custom software development company, they select the best language for your software needs from a vast pool of languages and platforms.  In addition to this, a software development company will also provide additional services such as evaluating the feasibility of your ideas, detailing the impact, and providing training to the employees on using the software.  ## Time Efficient Hiring a custom software development will save you a lot of time. The development team is already in place. You just give your requirements, and they will get started on creating the software.  On the other hand, if you decide to form an in-house team, you will have to start by identifying the right employees. You may have to hire a few additional employees or freelancers based on their [Gun.io review](https://www.devteam.space/alternatives-competitors-pricing-review/gun-io-review-alternatives-and-competitors/) or their XB Software review if the existing employees are not sufficient.  The in-house team may also need some training before they can start the development.  This takes a long time, and time is money in today’s world.    A custom software development company enters into a contract with you to deliver the software by a pre-determined deadline. They will adhere to this deadline. You can also work out project milestones so that you get a clear indication of the stage of the development along the way.    ## Cost-Effective There is a common misconception that custom software is expensive. The reality is the opposite. Custom software helps you save money on many fronts. You can start from the development process itself. When you approach a custom software development company, you will get a complete [cost assessment](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/), depending on your requirements. Once you enter into the contract, the pricing is fixed.  The same cannot be said for an in-house development team. Since they aren’t professionals in software development and they lack experience, they may not give you an accurate figure for the cost.  Moreover, they won’t have to fulfill the same contractual milestones that a custom software development company must satisfy. Therefore, the project can drag on and end up costing much more than the initial estimate.  A custom software fares better in comparison with generic commercial software as well. Off-the-shelf software may not have all the functionalities that you need, forcing you to get additional ones to meet your business requirements.  There is no licensing fee with the custom software, unlike the commercial ones.       ## Competitive Edge There is no denying that the business world is [highly competitive](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-competitive-advantage/). You need every advantage you can get to stay ahead of the competition. Custom software is going to help you move forward. With custom software, all your business processes will function much more smoothly than your competitors’. It enables you to focus more on improving the actual product or service that you are offering your customers. Your customers will feel the difference and gravitate to your business over the competitor’s business.  If the software you need is to be used by the customers as well, then a custom software is a must. Customers are bored with looking at off-the-shelf software presented to them with minor modifications. Custom software tells them that you genuinely care about them and want to make the experience an outstanding one for them. ## Continued Support When it comes to any software, the development and deployment is only one half of the story. As more people start using the software simultaneously, there are chances that many errors may pop up.  The chances of such errors are less when a software development firm makes your software as it would have undergone rigorous testing before deployment. Even if the software suffers from an error, you can get in touch with the developers to fix the error.  The customer support for most off-the-shelf software is abysmal. A custom software development company will offer continued support. If your needs change after some time or if your business grows and the software needs to be modified to accommodate the growth, you can always contact the software company, and they will make the necessary changes.    If a new technology in the market can significantly improve the software, the company can also offer to upgrade your existing software with the addition of the latest technology. ## In Conclusion Custom software offers a multitude of benefits over off-the-shelf software, and getting yours made by a professional company will work out better for you in the long run. Hiring a custom software development company may be the best decision you can take for your business. If this article helped you, check other useful guides and reviews here: - [How to decrease your website’s bounce rate?](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-4-reasons-of-high-bounce-rate/) - [Top digital marketing ideas to consider during COVID-19](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-digital-marketing-ideas-to-consider-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - [Top WordPress competitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-wordpress-competitors/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top Reasons That Make NetSuite The #1 Cloud ERP Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-reasons-that-make-netsuite-the-1-cloud-erp/ Published: 2020-09-12 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: Business TL;DR: Today, NetSuite provides a suite of cloud-based financials / Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and omnichannel commerce software that runs the business of more than 21,000 customers in more than 200 countries and territories. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software in its early days was developed for large organizations to manage their entire operation from a single software console. Today, ERP software is cloud-based and becoming more and more attractive to small to midsize businesses as well. This shift is largely due to a more customizable and cost-effective solution with the more modern ERP software. A big player in this industry is NetSuite – Test drive their products with a Free Product Tour [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/netsuite/?). In 1998, NetSuite pioneered the Cloud Computing revolution, establishing the world’s first company dedicated to delivering business applications over the Internet. Today, NetSuite provides a suite of cloud-based financials / Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and omnichannel commerce software that runs the business of more than 21,000 customers in more than 200 countries and territories. They pride themselves on being the #1 Cloud ERP, but what makes them number one? Check out some of NetSuite’s features with these top 5 standouts to find out the answer, but before that you would like to check this video: ## 1\. **Financial Reporting** Gain a modern financial reporting experience that delivers real-time financial analysis and modeling across every dimension of your business. This reporting offers detailed insights into corporate performance and will help improve business decision making. The key features of financial reporting are: 1. Securely access financial reports from anywhere using a web browser or mobile device. 2. Financial reports are highly flexible and can be easily customized. 3. Diagnose financial issues on-the-fly and drill-down transactional details to quickly take action and drive business performance with informed decisions. ## **2\. Invoice and Billing Management** NetSuite’s unified billing framework supports transaction, subscription, usage-based, and any hybrid model. This is all taken care of while NetSuite manages revenue accurately and in accordance with the latest revenue recognition standards. 1. Core unified framework connects transactions, subscriptions, and projects to the billing engine and seamlessly flows to financials. 2. Provides for the creation and management of complex rating models, often coupled with high volume transactions. ## 3\. **Planning and Budgeting** NetSuite Planning and Budgeting features facilitate both company-wide and departmental financial planning with modeling capabilities, approval workflows, and reporting within one collaborative scalable solution. This feature offers comprehensive integration with Microsoft Office tools such as Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint with Smart View for Office. Here are the two key functions of this feature: 1. Streamline comprehensive CapEx planning and simplify complex OPEX planning. 2. Atomate allocations of indirect expenses. ## 4\. **Price Optimization & Promotion Management** Replace your existing pricing software and promotions management architecture with NetSuite’s powerful native capabilities to establish multiple price levels, customer and currency-specific pricing, dollar and percentage discounts, promotion codes, and transaction-level gross profit analysis for a quick double-check on the effectiveness of your pricing strategy 1. Assign price levels to different channels and customers. 2. Definable rounding rules. 3. Support for BOGO offers. ## 5\. **Sales Order Management & Processing** NetSuite’s Advanced Order Management functionality provides unrivaled visibility and helps automate many tasks to ensure that you are keeping your customers happy by hitting defined service levels and delivering on-time and from the most economical or geographically appropriate location. 1. Real-time costing and gross profit information. 2. Drag-n-drop interface for workflow approvals. 3. Shorten the Order to Ship timeframe. In a nutshell, NetSuite provides cloud ERP solutions for every size company, across every industry, in every part of the world. No matter your vertical, your current software, or your role in the company, you’ll find the flexibility and seamlessness you’re looking for. Thousands of businesses are slashing their total cost of ownership, improving their finance team’s productivity, and integrating their sales and finance processes by simply switching over to NetSuite. Get a [Free Product Tour](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/netsuite/?) today and see the #1 Cloud ERP in action for yourself. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 5 Tips For Making Your PPC Campaigns More Profitable Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/5-tips-for-making-your-ppc-campaigns-more-profitable/ Published: 2020-08-27 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Advertising (SEM) ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. [Pay-per-click](https://startups.co.uk/marketing/tips/how-to-use-pay-per-click-advertising/) is a model of online advertising that’s acquired incredible traction over the past few years. If you’re to get the most out of your PPC campaigns, then you’ll need to expend a little bit of thought and energy. If you’re looking for better results from the same spend, then it’s worth considering a few reliable tips. ## Review PPC Performance by Day and Time ![](/images/posts/inline/6a7ebe5d-business-strategy-success-target-goals_1421-33.jpg) Your campaigns aren’t going to perform consistently, independent of the time of day. If your customers aren’t awake to click on ads, then your campaign won’t generate a particularly handsome return. That’s an extreme example. But variances in time can produce subtle differences that are worth knowing about. Work out when the most profitable hours are, and focus your efforts there. Make regular reviews a part of your process. Relevant: You would also like to read how to do CPA marketing [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-cpa-marketing/) ## Use call-tracking technology ![](/images/posts/inline/e33faf5f-woman-using-smartphone-cellphone-subway_7186-35.jpg) If you’re generating leads through the telephone, then you’ll need a means of tying a given caller to the marketing channel through which they’ve acquired your number. That way, you’ll be able to [identify which channels are performing best](http://www.responsetap.com/gb/) and allocate your marketing budget accordingly. ## Harness Mobile Traffic ![](/images/posts/inline/bb448787-modern-creative-communication-internet-network-connect-smart-city_31965-6673.jpg) There’s been a clear shift toward mobile in the [world of eCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/), and this shift has been especially pronounced among younger people, who’ve grown up with the smartphone. As such, any PPC campaign that doesn’t account for the needs (and screen layouts) of mobile-based customers is asking for trouble. Make sure that your website is just as responsive on mobile as on desktop. Make sure that text items are not truncated, and that the language you’re using on the mobile site reflects the tastes of mobile customers. ## Make a Plan and Stick to It ![](/images/posts/inline/c09919d9-group-casually-dressed-business-people-discussing-ideas-office_7861-1633.jpg) [Google Ads](https://ads.google.com/intl/en_uk/home/) provides a whole host of opportunities to make minor tweaks. But getting down into the weeds like this can make even the most seasoned marketer lose sight of the bigger picture. Unless you have a broad understanding of what you’d like your marketing campaign to achieve, then you may have difficulty measuring success. Your marketing plans should be composed well in advance, particularly if the product or service you’re offering is very seasonal, such as a summer holiday or a Christmas present. Your competition will have been prepping for these occasions months in advance; so must you! ## Custom Audiences ![](/images/posts/inline/4f9e2a94-high-angle-dart-piece-paper-with-target-audience_23-2148443791.jpg) If you don’t understand who it is that you’re targeting, then your campaigns are not going to be anywhere near as effective. In many cases, [a majority of your customers will come from a minority of customers](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/paretoprinciple.asp). A technology firm, for example, might make premium products targeted toward a small ‘enthusiast’ contingent among their broader customer base. Identify where your high-value customers are, and compose a marketing plan that reflects the potential value of the specific customers being targeted. ## Wrapping up! For an effective PPC campaigns, you need to be objective, and have a proper plan to get the most out if your spend. Hopefully, these tips will help you develop a successful PPC campaign that gets you great traction over time. If this article was helpful, I suggest you also check the following resources and reviews: - [What is high bounce rate and how to decrease it?](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-4-reasons-of-high-bounce-rate/) - [Comparing Joomla Vs. WordPress: Which one is the best?](https://alejandrorioja.com/joomla-vs-wordpress-comparison/) - [Top WordPress competitors 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-8-wordpress-competitors/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top 4 Reasons Of High Bounce Rate And How To Decrease It? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-4-reasons-of-high-bounce-rate/ Published: 2020-08-27 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. When most people make the decision to start an online business, their minds automatically jump to experiencing the success of it all… the flexible schedule, being your own boss, and, of course, making lots of money! Once they come back to reality, they realize the hard work involved before actually bracing success. A lot goes into starting your online business. The process begins with planning and market research and decision about how to build and sustain your website. But if you are not a tech savvy, the website builders make this step easier given their easy to use for beginners and expert features that run you through all the step in [how to make a website](https://www.shopify.com/website/builder). Upon building your site, you’re ready to open for business! After all the hard work you’ve put in, you finally start to see the traffic coming in! But what if you get the leads and no one actually buy anything? In fact, it might seem as though visitors enter your site, and leave soon without any substantial activity. ## **Why are People Leaving Your Site?** ![](/images/posts/inline/a20fe178-business-customer-pressing-smiley-face-emoticon-online-service-rating-satisfaction-concept_34936-2724.jpg) Well, the reason people leave sites can vary but it is indeed a sign that you need to figure out what’s going on. When people come to your site and then leave, it’s usually perceived as a bad thing but that’s not always the case. For instance, someone might visit your site looking for your business contact. That would still be considered a conversion. Where the problem lies is when a visitor comes to your site, leaves, and doesn’t convert. So how do you find out what’s making visitors to your site leave? Well, it will definitely involve some calculations with the help of [Google Analytics](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/) to track your single page views. But let’s focus on what you’re doing on your end to cause people to leave your site. If your website has any of these factors or qualities, it could be a major reason why your site has such a high bounce rate. ## Common Causes of High Bounce Rates ### Your Site Has Bad or Useless Content ![](/images/posts/inline/a967d1f3-website-design-content-layout-graphic_53876-13764.jpg) If you think about it, people usually land on pages because they’ve conducted a search query on a particular topic. Once they land on that page and aren’t able to get any use of the content, they’re not going to stick around to see if they can find better content on that site. They’re going to go back to the search results page and click on another site for better content. To prevent this from happening, you want to always make sure to have [engaging content](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/) on your site. Do your best to understand your audience to provide them with content that answers questions and mitigates any concerns related to your niche. This will help get conversions for sure. ### Your Site Takes Too Long to Load ![](/images/posts/inline/03d4f4fd-5g-speed-network-wireless-systems-internet-things-with-motion-blur-background_72213-220-1.jpg) Customers are not likely to stay on any site that takes too long to load. According to dotcom-tools.com, the [ideal website load time](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) is anywhere between two to five seconds but if you don’t want visitors to leave your site, your pages need to load in two seconds or less. 1.3 seconds is actually the maximum page load time that industry leaders suggest as the loading benchmark. That applies to desktop and mobile versions of your site. Google conducted research and revealed some interesting information on page load times in relation to [bounce rate probabilities](https://www.thinkwithgoogle.com/): 1. 1-3 second page load time: probability of bounce increases 32% 2. 1-5 second page load time: probability of bounce increases 90% 3. 1-6 second page load time: probability of bounce increases 106% 4. 1-10 second page load time: probability of bounce increases 123% There’s no way to avoid bounce rates altogether but to optimize your site, you will have to make sure the page loading time is under 1-3 seconds. ### Your Site isn’t Mobile-Friendly ![](/images/posts/inline/70f9ddd0-elderly-man-is-using-mobile-phone_53876-30130-1.jpg) Making your website mobile-friendly is a no-brainer to all website owners but you’d be surprised at how this “no-brainer” isn’t practiced as often as it should. A 2018 study revealed that nearly a quarter of some of the biggest websites and brands didn’t have mobile-friendly websites. When websites are not optimized for mobile devices, they tend to look terrible, plus they won’t load fast either, and these are good reasons why your site will have an increasing bounce rate. When a visitor tries to access your site on a mobile device, and it isn’t optimized for mobile, the page loses some design principles, the format is off, and the information appears distorted. When this happens, users will typically go back to the search engine and go to a competitor site that is [mobile-friendly](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). ### Overall Poor UX ![](/images/posts/inline/5852ae06-internet-browser-with-email-envelope-wheels_165073-278.jpg) As a business owner, you want visitors to your site to have a good experience that drives them to make a purchase. But a lot of times, business owners want this so bad that they actually do the complete opposite and create a bad user experience for their visitors. In your efforts to get people to buy, you might bombard them with pop-up ads and email subscription boxes. This tactic is clearly “in your face” for visitors and can make them leave within a few seconds of entering your site. Those pop-up ads are just like hungry sales people that pounce on you as soon as you walk into a physical store asking if they can help you with anything! Also, if your site is too confusing or difficult to navigate, they’ll leave for that reason as well. For example, if your site has a blog but no search tool, a visitor will have a hard time navigating your site to find what they’re looking for. And they’re definitely not going to look through countless pages and posts to find that. ## Summing up! Having an online business is more than just launching a site. You need to make sure every bit of it adds value to customer experience to ensure a minimum bounce rate. Give your visitors what they want without the hard sell as soon as they enter your site. They should have an overall pleasant experience on your site which will prompt them to come back and visit. If this article was helpful, check other useful posts here: - [Your guide to creating Adwords ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-creating-your-first-adwords-ad/) - [Best ways to boost your website domain authority](https://alejandrorioja.com/effective-ways-to-boost-your-websites-domain-authority/) - [Understand the basics of product differentiation](https://alejandrorioja.com/product-differentiation-explained/) Comment below to let me know what other topics you want me to cover in the next articles. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 5 Digital Marketing Ideas To Consider During The COVID-19 Pandemic Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/5-digital-marketing-ideas-to-consider-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/ Published: 2020-08-24 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: As leaders addressed their countries and the CDC issued global travel warnings, in-store visits continued down to 90% less than pre-pandemic levels. **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is being felt by all businesses— large and small— around the world. It may be obvious, but as people are advised to practice social distancing and avoid unnecessary outside trips, many businesses have experienced fewer and fewer customers inside their stores. In fact, since the start of the pandemic, businesses have seen a drop in in-person store visits by up to 90 percent within just a month’s span.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/su2qPDzXBVRoHRWvSYbdibDTfoqnb_7xZfQr6WKpV_QTnakoX5EzPonX7p09qbdXWw0lutrmrS-uJW7xPnqaFoDqqQDHWdh9TkAgVempTwxNQGQMp9_kPijqoXd_0xflaMMaVrLm) Image Source: [Wordstream](https://www.wordstream.com/blog/ws/2020/03/23/covid-19-business-trends) Businesses started noticing the small dips in in-store visits in late February. And by the 1st week of March, it went further down by 24 percent. And as the virus spread exponentially, scaring off people, store visits were down by 46 percent at the start of the 2nd week. As leaders addressed their countries and the CDC issued global travel warnings, in-store visits continued down to 90% less than pre-pandemic levels. And up until the 1st week of July, businesses saw virtually no unnecessary store visits, hitting an all-time low, with most businesses forced to close their physical store. These unexpected and stringent limitations on the foot traffic that most businesses rely upon,  has also impacted the way businesses and advertisers are handling their daily operations and finding ways to keep their businesses alive. As it’s clear that traditional brick and mortar businesses can no longer rely on foot traffic in order to make sales, they are now focusing on their online presence and digital marketing. As a matter of fact, since the COVID-19 outbreak, we’ve seen an increase in digital and online activities–mainly because the whole world is forced to stay cooped up inside their homes, and they’re looking for things to do.   ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pWLtGsPCz1O66DIpdD7SlklSofhFd6rvTY6Pe_LkI62jPp9K4Jij9S-PsLnHD-xetMGbxPjOi6EofN1NFBaXys3kZAHNBz2jKX9SQiWoItY5ovdE1ojoE5gDSM_V6za2X7bJOhiF) Image Source: [Datareportal](https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2020-july-global-statshot) With this in view, lets have a look at some of the ideas that can help you counter the hit of this pandemic on your business. But first, you would like to check this video: ## Best Digital Marketing Ideas That Will Save You During The Pandemic ### 1\. Go Social People are forced to stay inside their houses and exercise social distancing. So, in the quest to kill time, seek information, and stay connected to others, people are turning to [digital contents and social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) to fill the void. As a matter of fact, latest research indicates that people are spending more time on social media. Forty percent of internet users are now spending more time on social media, with that figure reaching over 60 percent in the Philippines.  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/6lIZ2RBaceknmhci9G9qZkbo0i6eYZCJonKXRAUbT7BxypvyJt_48lkFER8eUzo1cbUMviTcEQE_VM0Y9fzVNJ7UkKpOZvW_1IdfbW-oVrV359lKKsFH_e2KZyk77nEThhRcgYxU) Image Source: [Datareportal](https://datareportal.com/reports/more-than-half-the-world-now-uses-social-media) So, it is time to leverage this social growth into a noticeable and positive impact  on your customers and audience and keep them engaged. However, this is not the time to be pushy and salesy. Instead, it is a great opportunity for your business and brand to just stand out during a difficult time. It is a time to show empathy for others and help out where you can. You can either show them that your company is doing something good for the community or provide content that makes people feel good. Show people that your business has a much bigger purpose than just making a profit. It can help win trust with your customers and employees. And when people trust your brand and your message, they’re more likely to share what you have to say with their social circle. Thus, getting publicity and taking in new customers. For instance, you can imitate popular DJs around the world performing for fans on Facebook Live or TikTok (and [go viral on TikTok](https://www.yrcharisma.com/2019/12/18/how-to-go-viral-on-tiktok/)). Canadian brand Lululemon, on the other hand, launched relaxing meditation sessions for their Instagram for followers. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2y_UP63rZWgr7PGs98f51FecDVWnbRvBGPQnwq0MWf6G8UUMAtQb7SSgP6k1haIbqyYIxBiSaLhKxeFeHyGKcsOMtrItK6ybjAci684qVUStKVw4tbxCV7WkJC-N4H56v42g19iC) Image Source: [Lululemon Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/B-eydacAXyf/?utm_source=ig_embed) Think about what your brand and business have to offer and how you can [inspire your customers and followers on social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-instagram-captions/) during these trying times.  ### 2\. Make SEO a Priority In case you have not yet noticed, more people are flopped on their electronic gadgets and surfing the internet right now than walking the sidewalks or driving their cars. Search traffic has significantly climbed over the past few months and will continue to do so until COVID-19 slowdowns ease. As we mentioned, most of the population is cooped up inside their homes; glued to their phones and computers looking for updates within their communities. And any digital content right now will have a wide and available audience.  So, this is not the time to be missing in action. You need to up your SEO strategies and make your way to the [top of SERPs](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-serp/), doing what you can to keep your business moving forward, adapting to change.  So, how can you improve your ranking? 1. Write and stockpile high-quality and relevant blog posts 2. Conduct a local listing audit 3. Target both COVID-19-related search terms and unrelated search terms 4. Get featured in local media articles with links to your website 5. [Blogger outreach](https://linkdoctor.io/blogger-outreach-services/) 6. Pump up your website performance 7. Update your already well-performing content Relevant: Read what shape will the SEO strategies take post COVID-19 [here](https://flux.la/seo-strategies-after-covid-19/) ### 3\. Don’t Forget Local SEO As you move your SEO game up, don’t forget about your local SEO. After all, the pandemic restricted everyone to their homes. And on the occasions that people do need to step out to grab household items and groceries, they also need to know if their go-to businesses are operating. And this is why you should never forget to perk up your [local SEO strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/local-seo/). This way potential customers can easily find you and know whether you can provide services. You need to ensure that your customers in your region and locality can easily locate your stores online and find out your operating hours. At a time when we are all looking for more convenience, pumping up your local SEO is a smart move. Having the opportunity to provide assistance during this trying time for families can build trust and relationships for the long term. Perhaps the most important part of any local SEO strategy is your GMB or the Google My Business profile. Your GMB profile is the source of data for your local results listing, Google Maps listing, and Knowledge Panel results.  ![](blob:https://alejandrorioja.com/196fe12d-e9f0-4a36-9936-e8b8f4006933) These listings can provide a thorough and quick snapshot of your business. It allows customers to find, assess, and engage with you directly from the results page. Another way to boost your local SEO is through positive reviews. During the pandemic, online reputation management is as crucial as ever. It is the perfect time to connect with your target audience. Provide a trustworthy product or service during this chaotic time. And in return, they’ll likely provide you with a nice review to give your reputation some much-needed *oomph*. ### 4\. Take Advantage of Cheap Paid Ads The latest marketing trends during this pandemic that we are seeing indicate that [paid ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/) are cheaper than ever. Why? Because these big ad networks make money via an auction system. And they need the SMBs to drive up the CPC (cost per click) for ads so that the bigger, billion-dollar enterprises have to spend more money on ads. Without many SMB ads, there is less competition for inventory, and thus, the cost per click also drops. For example, as the virus has been causing people to spend more time online, company giants like [Netflix considered reducing their streaming quality](https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-51968302). In simpler terms, the traffic on the web is going through the roof but there are fewer advertisers. As a result, ads became cheaper. And so there’s no better time to [include PPC marketing to your digital marketing checklists](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/), allowing you to connect with customers and obtain a competitive advantage.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/O3e5iSVp6NKwRPPG9WLurISE-4gmmC1DlMbIKjcRw0CwZ2p1VYCvNTg1Su8us7nYf5Y3GqSE5aQFKVwA3JTHyqpeLDHYprH8OmUYlRCjxQKP8wxd0U3se6XYvjwGo_hMPrNXnYl6) Image Source: [Wordstream](https://www.wordstream.com/blog/ws/2020/03/18/covid-19-google-ads-data) In the last weeks of June, Google search ad impressions fell to 7 percent below average. Although this happens, especially during the holiday weeks, most advertisers didn’t expect it to be this bad. This decrease is likely to continue until Covid-19 is under control, reducing the amount of money an advertiser pays a publisher for every ad click. This gives your business another chance to scoop up the lost market share where others may have pulled back during the pandemic.  ### 5\. Give Special Offers During these unsure and troubling times, you have the opportunity to show your support for your customer base. How? By offering special discounts and other offers. Most people at home are looking for ways to save money during this time of unrest. It is a great way to keep your revenue flowing, while also attracting new customers. For instance, [Eric Siu](https://instagram.com/ericosiu/) decided to offer a free course that teaches people how to start a marketing agency. Normally, he would charge over $1,000 for this. But with the free course, more than 250 people have taken him up on this offer.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/j4fHBx4_CggMecJN6YHfPAKAuHKrY7icp91U5AiJFQncg1q-xfQLnvdGok3EKFPdvnAGbWznHPTg4Pr-zlA6hX_F9-gfCLH2LRnVuMvrWP5JQjm7J7StL7e0mCPKWe-vkjnpOZrN) Not only that, but Eric also gained more social media fans and it has given him a chance to do a webinar about his services and products to a new audience of about 50,000 people.  ## *Summing up!* So there, you have it. Despite these unstable and trying times, these [digital marketing ideas](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) can help business owners keep their heads and proactively address issues.  Hopefully, you have gleaned some insight into how you can apply these smart digital marketing tips during the COVID-19 pandemic and find a way to go forward, thrive and survive in this current global crisis. If you liked this article, find other useful reviews and guides here: - [A comprehensive guide of creating your first Adwords Ad.](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-creating-your-first-adwords-ad/) - [Comparison ofJoomla Vs. WordPress](https://alejandrorioja.com/joomla-vs-wordpress-comparison/) - [How to effectively boost your website’s domain authority?](https://alejandrorioja.com/effective-ways-to-boost-your-websites-domain-authority/) Leave a comment below and let me know which topic you want me to cover in the next article. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Joomla Vs. WordPress Comparison: Criteria And Advantages Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/joomla-vs-wordpress-comparison/ Published: 2020-08-13 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: I have noticed that as WordPress is usually the most well-known content management system (CMS), people tend to assume that it is the only best option they have. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. I have noticed that as WordPress is usually the most well-known content management system (CMS), people tend to assume that it is the only best option they have.  Of course, WordPress is an exceptional CMS that is among the best platforms for websites out there, and that is indisputable.  However, WordPress is not the only one. Another amazing CMS is Joomla, and these two can be compared side by side based on the similar functionalities they offer the customers.  If you are looking into finding the perfect open-source CMS to build or move your website to, bear with me as I compare these two great platforms.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iK9A2ea7D30 ## Joomla Vs. WordPress: general similarities and differences ![](/images/posts/inline/73e6289f-simple-work-blog-banner.png) The most important similarity between Joomla and WordPress is that they are both open-source CMSs and they are not meant to be stand-alone software pieces.  Both Joomla and WordPress have to be installed on a web server in order to operate, and this web server has to be provided by a third company of your choosing.  So in this direction, both of them would require you to seek your own [web hosting](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/) and connect the CMS to the hosting in order to have a functional website.  When it comes to differences, one of them is the way these platforms started. Joomla was always a CMS that aimed to serve portal-like websites.  On the other hand, WordPress started as a blog-focused platform.  Both of them are capable of creating any type of website nowadays.  The most important difference that may play a big role in the choice you make when you want to build a new website is the following:  Joomla is a platform that is more focused on web development or in other words, you need developers that are skilled with web software configuration, dealing with all technical aspects of these processes, etc.  WordPress on the other hand is set up in a way that is way more beginner-friendly and even people without advanced technical knowledge can find their way around setting up and maintaining the website.  WordPress has a lot more automation in all of the configuring and installation processes, while Joomla doesn’t offer a hands-free approach but you have to install processes on your own.  ## Criteria for choosing  If you are not convinced so far which one of these two great platforms is the right one for you, then let’s dive deeper into the comparison.  I will compare Joomla and WordPress by different criteria.  ## 1\. Ease of use As I briefly mentioned previously, the ease of use is one of the deciding criteria that many people use to choose the correct platform to build their website on.  This is a place where the most important difference between Joomla and WordPress can be spotted.  Joomla is generally simple to get started with. The installation process is to some extent automated and a lot of the hosting companies have a Jommla one-click installation process.  Once you get this far in the process of setting up a Joomla website, things get a bit more complicated.  The whole control panel for managing modules is not extremely beginner-friendly so people with previous web development knowledge are the most suitable for handling it.  If not, you will be required to have a lot of patience and give yourself a lot of time to understand how Joomla works.  In this aspect, Joomla is much more complicated to use than WordPress.  One of the best things about WordPress is the easy-to-use, extremely user-friendly dashboard that let’s even the people with very limited technical knowledge [create amazing websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-com-vs-wordpress-org/).  You won’t spend a lot of time getting used to WordPress or learning the interface. It’s quite straight-forward.  Almost all of the options are right there staring you in the face, so you can easily navigate the whole thing.  Read: [5 Features That Make WordPress Great](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/)  ## 2\. Costs and expenses  For many people and businesses, the costs and expenses related to building and maintaining a website are the top factors that influence the decision.  This is especially relevant for small businesses, startups, or personal websites.  The truth is, both Joomla and WordPress are free by themselves. They can be easily downloaded off the internet and installed very fast.  When it comes to other expenses connected with using these open-source platforms, there are two main things: domain name and web hosting.  The first thing you need to look into is web hosting or a place on the internet where your website sits and visitors can visit it.  Although prices vary, generally a web hosting service costs around $35-$40 per year.  Another expense is the domain name or the name your customers find you by like for example [www.alejandrorioja.com](http://www.alejandrorioja.com). This can cost around $15 annually.  Additional expenses for both platforms are connected to plans, plugins, and themes that offer more than just the basic features.  Read next: [BlueHost Review: Your Effective Web Hosting Solution](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/) ## 3\. Extensions  Any content management system that wants to compete on the market has to provide a good collection of extensions and templates.  These things are crucial for letting people create great designed websites filled with amazing functionalities, and do all of that with ease.  In this area, both Joomla and WordPress satisfy the criteria.  WordPress is very popular by the extensive collection of plugins that can get extremely complex and act as additional systems for building eCommerce stores, customer relationship systems, etc.  And since it is the more popular platform in this comparison, or even in general, it has the most templates and plugins to choose from.  Joomla has a rich collection as well, but in numbers, the templates and extensions are quite less.  The positive thing is that they are often much less complex than those on WordPress. Relevant: [Top 15 WordPress plugins for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/15-best-wordpress-plugins-for-2020/) ## 4\. Customization capabilities  As I previously said, both Joomla and WordPress have their own plugins or extensions with which you can further customize your website.  WordPress has more than 55.000 plugins, Joomla has more than 8000 extensions. That’s a major difference.  Hence, WordPress has quite a lot more aspects that can be customized as opposed to Joomla.  Another category where the story repeats itself is in the design department.  WordPress has themes, Joomla has templates. Again, WordPress has a very big pool of themes you can choose from, and it’s much easier to find a high-quality theme with often higher support levels.  ## 5\. Speed  Taking into account the [speed of the website](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-speed-up-wordpress-site/) when choosing a CMS is a very logical thing, especially in times like these when users will abandon a website if it’s loading for more than just a few seconds.  Users are used to quick loading pages, and that’s very important to be able to offer to your customers.  Speed is depending on many factors for both Joomla and WordPress. One of the biggest things that influence speed is plugins and extensions.  In many instances, Joomla websites load faster, but they have quite fewer extensions. In other instances, WordPress websites are faster.  There is no winner in this one, it all depends on your added functionalities, how often you do updates, etc.  Read next: [How To Optimize Your Website Speed: Top 12 Tips & Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) ## 6\. Security  Website security is a very important feature that plays a role in your choice. If there is a platform that is amazing but doesn’t necessarily pay a lot of attention to security- it’s not good.  All the functionalities and designs become secondary when you know you have a high likelihood to be hacked.  When it comes to Joomla and WordPress, both platforms are taking good care to provide the best security for their customers.  Now, naturally since WordPress is the most popular CMS in the world and the biggest portion of websites are on it, most of the attacks happen there too.  Hackers target random websites, and if the majority of them are supported by WordPress, this probability is not questionable at all.  That being said, WordPress is actually quite safe. There are frequent updates that renew the security and the developers are constantly making sure that the code is quite safe.  However, the biggest responsibility for keeping the website safe will fall on you since there are thousands of plugins to choose from that will take care of the security additionally.  All you need to do is do a little bit of research and choose the ones that are the best at what they’re made to do.  On the other hand, Joomla is also quite a high-security platform. There are also updates all the time, and fixes of security issues.  Also, there are some extensions there too just like with WordPress that can provide additional security features for your website.  In conclusion, both of them do a pretty good job at keeping your website secure, but you will play a big role in the security too.  ## WordPress Advantages 1. Very user-friendly interface 2. Easy to use, beginner-friendly  3. Much better suited for blogging  4. A very big number of themes and plugins to choose from  5. Massive support community that can help you out in the process  6. It tends to be cheaper in terms of having a massive community helping with your problems often for free (though YouTube videos, forums, blogs, etc) ## Joomla Advantages 1. Fair amount of extensions 2. Community and forums available 3. Multilingual support from default  4. More built-in features suitable for those who want to create more complex websites  5. More advanced user management 6. Multiple templates for different content possible to use ## Bottom line Both of these platforms are free to use on their own and offer immense functionalities that you can use to create an original and functional website.  The most obvious difference is that Joomla is in general a much harder to learn platform where developers’ help might be needed. If you have a team of developers, or you can afford to have one dedicated to this, Joomla is a good choice.  On the other hand, if you are trying to get your website live as soon as possible and without additional help, WordPress is the solid choice. As the most used platform it has a great community of people, videos, tips, articles on the Internet that can help you out to a large extent.  Additionally, WordPress being the more popular and used platform offers quite a lot more themes and plugins, so depending on the goals that you have for your website it might be easier to get all the functionalities you need that way.  For more complex websites with more built-in functionalities Joomla is the right choice, for a simple blog website WordPress is the right choice.  In whichever direction you may go, you won’t be wrong. It’s just good to take all things into account before deciding.  Did this post help you make your decision? Leave a comment letting me know what you think.  If you liked this post, read these next:  - [How to create a logo for WordPress?](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/) - [How to start a blog for beginners?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-start-a-blog/) - [Wix Vs. Squarespace comparison](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Product Differentiation Explained: Pros & Cons, Types, And Strategies Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/product-differentiation-explained/ Published: 2020-08-11 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: For instance, random sneakers of $20 will do the job too, but you will choose Nike or Adidas for the added value of having brand-name sneakers. ## Table of contents Wherever you go, whether online or offline, ads for products are literally everywhere.  You go to work, you see billboards, posters, people hand you fliers. You read the paper- ads, you go to the store- ads. Then you go online, more ads! Sponsored, promoted, [Facebook posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-facebook-polls-engaging/), [Instagram stories](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-schedule-instagram-posts/), Google promotions… It never ends.  This is the main characteristic of our time- fighting for the attention of the customers.  The lowered attention span of the customer, the over-saturated markets, and the availability of many products at hand is what you absolutely have to think about when you’re planning to release a new product.  The best way to fight for the attention of the customers and a bigger piece of the market is to offer high-quality products that satisfy a certain need of the customers. But that’s not always enough. Giving your products something extra, something different than the other similar products in the industry is what will be taken into consideration by the customers in the purchase-making decision. But how to achieve that?  I was going through the same process when I was establishing [my products](https://flux.la/), and I decided to write a post explaining everything that I have learned.  In this post, you will read about what product differentiation is, why it is important, what are the benefits and challenges connected to it, types of differentiation and some possible competitive advantage strategies.  ## What is product differentiation?  Product differentiation is used in marketing to differentiate a product or service from the others in the market by offering something valuable to the target audience.  The differentiation process requires defining this unique point of difference that your products have compared to the others on the market and clearly communicating that difference with the customers.  Another phrase that is used for these types of points of difference is uniques selling propositions or USPs for shorts.  Using those, you can market your products and appeal to your customers to choose your product over similar ones in the industry.  Relevant: You would also like to read about the types and examples of competitive advantage [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-competitive-advantage/) ## Why is product differentiation important?  ![](/images/posts/inline/3bbb59d8-concept-thinking-differently-hand-holds-wooden-block-with-arrow_102583-2230.jpg) Due to technological advances and the Internet, many industries today have a much lower barrier for entry which makes it easier for new businesses to arise. And although that might be good for the people and the economy, it’s not very helpful for the companies that are already on the market.  The bigger the number of companies on the market, the higher the competition between them.  This is where product differentiation comes into place.  For many companies, product differentiation is necessary for their survival.  Products that have no differentiation strategy in place are at risk of being lost in the sea of similar products and inevitably failing to keep their place on the market.  ## Benefits and challenges of product differentiation ### Benefits 1. **Creates additional value**: this means that customers will get extra value and not just a product that satisfies their needs. The added value can come from the product itself, but it can also come from the brand overall. For instance, random sneakers of $20 will do the job too, but you will choose Nike or Adidas for the added value of having brand-name sneakers.  2. **Creates brand loyalty**: when customers meet your products in-store or outside of it, they will know what the products represent. If they are familiar with the brand, they will be more likely to choose your product over the rest of them. For instance, if you see a random brand for clothes and H&M or Zara store, you’re more likely to go to brands that you know what to expect from.  3. **Boost competition**: the basic competition between businesses on the market is the price. And price is not always a correct indicator. With USPs, businesses can compete with more creative things unrelated to the price. 4. **Justifies the high price**: if you offer something really unique that people love, you can justify your high priced products with your [point of difference](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-upselling-and-how-to-do-it/).  ### Challenges  1. **No guarantees for increased revenue**: you can spend a lot of time, money, and efforts into choosing the right differentiation strategy but it doesn’t mean that it will bring added value for sure to the customers. Bad predictions happen too.  2. **More resources**: choosing a differentiation strategy can really put a strain on resources like money, effort, and time. This can burden your employees and resources. This is especially the case with smaller businesses with small numbers of employees. 3. **Value can decline**: the USPs can decline with time and you can lose the main selling point of the product. Think of a long-time differentiation strategy, and modify it with time.  4. **Higher product prices**: the products can end up having a higher price from the competition’s products when you add all the efforts for product differentiation.  ## Types of differentiation  ### Internal VS External differentiation Internal differentiation is differentiation within your product portfolio. It means how one certain product differentiates from the others horizontally and vertically.  External differentiation means how your product is differentiated on the market among your competition. With external differentiation, there are three different types of differentiation: simple, vertical, and horizontal.  ### Simple (or Mixed) Differentiation The simple or mixed differentiation is differentiation that is a result of many mixed factors and characteristics which in the end set your product [apart from the rest on the market](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/).  Some say that this is the easiest type of differentiation for a consumer to spot, like for example in the coffee industry when coffee pots are compared to espresso machines, They do the same thing, but there are so many differences between them that it’s very easy to differentiate.  ### Horizontal Differentiation Horizontal differentiation is when people make their purchasing decision subjectively.  The reason for that is that they don’t have a measurable difference and can’t be classified as better or worse from one another.  Examples of this are mineral waters or ice cream. Whether your personal preference is to get vanilla or chocolate, it’s totally subjective.  If the product has the same quality, features, and price, the decision is made based on the preference of the customer.  ### Vertical Differentiation Vertical differentiation, on the other hand, is when people make their purchasing decisions objectively using measurable characteristics like quality or price.  It’s important to notice that even though the measurements are objective, the customers still have different values placed on them.  For example, if the product is an expensive car that is very safe, one customer might feel like it’s important to give more money but to be safer, and another person might feel like they would rather buy a cheaper car even though it’s less safe.  The safety of the car has more value for the first customer, and the price has more value for the second customer.  ## Product Differentiation Strategies  ![](/images/posts/inline/b9daa68c-abstract-face-emotion-happiness-sadness-unique-think-different-individual-standing-out-from-crowd-wooden-hexagon-with-icon-blue-background_52494-598-1.jpg) Your product differentiation strategy can be based on one or more of the following areas:  ### 1\. Price Price is the most common area that differentiates products on the market. The usual perception of the customers is that [high-quality premium products](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/) are the ones that are more expensive, and the cheap ones are lower-quality products.  ### 2\. Quality  High-quality can be the thing that differentiates your product. For example, people might choose a Rolex watch over a medium or low-quality watch if they value quality the most.  ### 3\. Features  In one price spectrum, differentiation can happen in the area of features like size, ingredients, origin, etc. Brands can also justify their higher prices with feature differentiation. For example, a customer might choose to buy meat from humane farms, even if he has to pay a bit higher price.  ### 4\. Location  The location of the [manufacturing of the product](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-product-development-process/) may also be considered to be a point of difference. For example, a person from one country that wants to support that country will choose a product manufactured there.  ### 5\. Promotion and marketing  Marketing efforts produce a brand image which is a very strong differentiation among customers. Additionally, things like promotions, add-ons, etc also fall into this category.  ### 6\. Complexity  The level of complexity can be a great differentiator especially in industries like the technology sector, etc.  ### 7\. Looks  How the product looks can be also a point of difference. Mostly this happens with luxury goods or apparel. ### 8\. Reliability  Some products are more reliable than others. They are known for being less prone to malfunctions or damages and this can also make a difference in the choice of the customer. ### 9\. Distribution  [Channels of distribution](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-amazon-competitors/) can play a role in product differentiation too.  ### 10\. After-purchase service  Services granted to customers after the purchase is done are also good for differentiating a product among customers.  One example of a good differentiation is the company called [LUSH](https://www.lushusa.com/). You can find it on the top of the list in any good product differentiation post that you might read. And there’s a good reason for that. They combine a very social, ethical, and personal approach in their selling processes.  Their points of difference are handmade products with vegetarian ingredients that are animal-cruelty free.  They advocate for ethical manufacturing and buying, supporting the brand’s core social and corporate responsibility needs.  Their brand is genuine and simple, and because of that, they have a massive following of loyal customers.  ## Bottom line A point of difference strategy can bring a lot of respect and loyalty to your brand.  In my opinion, the risks connected to it are well worth it because if done successfully, your brand can grow and get a good share of the market.  Think very thoroughly about your brand, your values, what you offer, and what you want your customers to recognize you by.  This is not always an easy task, but it’s one that potentially can bring a lot of positive things for your company.  If you learned something from this post, check out these other useful blog posts next: - [The best eCommerce platforms for small businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/) - [15 best WordPress plugins](https://alejandrorioja.com/15-best-wordpress-plugins-for-2020/) - [3 Psychology Tricks You Should Implement in Your Marketing Strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/psychology-tricks-marketing-strategy/) Which product differentiation do you think it’s the best? Let me know in the comments below. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## BigCommerce Vs. Magento: Comparison Of Features & Pricing Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-vs-magento/ Published: 2020-08-10 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: By some statistics, it is predicted that by the year 2040, as much as 95% of shopping will be facilitated by eCommerce. The world is changing, and as per the predictions, eCommerce will continue to grow; so businesses need to get ready for this. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* We saw the benefit of [eCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) especially now during the Covid-19 pandemic where people overwhelmed sites like Amazon and even smaller eCommerce businesses providing necessary (and not so necessary) items.  By some [statistics](https://letstalkaboutmoney.com/ecommerce-statistics/), it is predicted that by the year 2040, as much as 95% of shopping will be facilitated by eCommerce.  The world is changing, and as per the predictions, eCommerce will continue to grow; so businesses need to get ready for this.  > If you are thinking of getting into eCommerce for the first time, or just to change the platform on which your current business is, you’ve most certainly heard of [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) and Magento.  Since both of these good eCommerce are well known, the act of choosing one becomes quite difficult. That is why in this post, I will compare them according to different parameters so you can make an informed decision. ## Why should you have an eCommerce platform for your business? ![](/images/posts/inline/3ed48c9d-high-angle-online-shopping-laptop_23-2148628107.jpg) If the fact that it’s 2020 and online selling is a big thing is not a good enough answer for you, then there are some other additional reasons to have an ecommerce platform for your business.  1. **Email marketing**: the fact is when you’re selling in person you’re not really in a position to ask for personal information. You could, but people won’t respond as well as they would online. This opens a sea of opportunities of promoting and selling to the buying customers through emails. [Getting repeat buyers](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) is much easier online with these tools than it’s in the marketplace.  2. **Establishing the brand**: if your store is in a mall, the customer experience will be more linked to the mall than to your separate brand. You are limited in the way you’re allowed to present your brand by the marketplace you’re in. It’s not a problem if you have an online presence. You can define and establish your brand any way you want to. 3. **Get to know your customers**: again, asking your buyers in a store where they come from, where they heard of you, and additional information is frowned upon. Nobody wants to be interviewed while they’re trying to buy a pair of pants. Online, through many [analytics software](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-add-easy-powerful-google-analytics-in-woocommerce/), you can analyze all of these things, go through comments, reviews, etc and get to know your customers and their opinion of your brand much better. Through this, you can improve a lot and tailor your products and promotions to what the statistics show.   4. **Get as creative as you want**: you can create amazingly creative promotions, offers, and sales online for virtually no costs at all once you have your eCommerce website up. You have no rules in terms of layouts, size of text, number of letters as you might as a part of a marketplace. You’re literally free to do your own thing as you see fit, and that can lead to great success.  Relevant: Read how to start a million dollar eCommerce store [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) ## BigCommerce Vs. Magento The biggest difference between these great platforms is that [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) is a SaaS (Software as a Service) or a cloud-based solution, and Magento on the other hand is a PaaS (Platform as a Service) or an open-source solution. ### SaaS Vs. PaaS SaaS has a quite reduced time needed on tasks like installing, managing, and upgrading software.  The characteristics of SaaS are that it’s managed from a central location, it’s accessible over the internet, and hosted on a remote server. Also, the responsibility for the hardware of software updates is not on the users. PaaS on the other hand provides cloud components to certain software and is mostly used for applications. It offers a framework that can be built upon by developers and they can create customized applications.  The characteristics of PaaS are that it’s easily scalable in both directions, it integrates web services and databases, and it gives a lot of assistance with the development, testing, and deployment of apps.  ### Magento  ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/u8rJ8dj6V0PfjT0Z1hNEAQZul2Rl0H758tXBYE8naCX7n2u3XDUpHo9vYm0A8GPFP1tnBABNrnUxqTQ6kglkzV5c0Kb0mSRQ4iyr3JbiEhjIrEWmICE_OFuBqGkOcfUq1PLWz29p) This means that Magento mostly offers an open-source framework on which developers can build up and create applications for eCommerce that are highly customized and tailored to their specific needs.  Magento has also had a PaaS offering called Magento 2 since 2016, but its open-source framework is still offered at large.  ### BigCommerce ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/tZbRw2Jbf7TAEZCa24fkeYjLmNBiN0dmevJyNFLTkLQJbtpRuR0Y_T0VTBjhpha1hlrEGJrUVMa6GXJT1iuVsFx1RLQsVzrLAFE3pQMzDjv1XBMsPQj0JLlpPFdphJa8FA-2SnFT) [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) offers software that is licensed to its users and accessible via an internet connection from anywhere.  [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) takes care of hosting and maintaining the infrastructure for the users all included in the price.  But, the access to the software’s code is not possible as it is on an open-source platform.  These characteristics of both of these platforms give them separate attributes and make them more or less suitable for the type of service your company needs specifically.  ## BigCommerce Features  ![](/images/posts/inline/6a2b2fca-screenshot-www.bigcommerce.com-2020.08.10-16_52_01.png) 1. Pre-built responsive templates 2. Developers test your website before publishing 3. Customizable website and shopping features by developers 4. Cloud-based hosting 5. Maintaining and monitoring servers by them 6. Full-feature CMS 7. Helps you manage inventory and orders from a single location 8. Supports standard and non-standard payment gateways 9. Optimization for mobile and [SEO optimization](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/) 10. Omnichannel selling 11. Robust API’s 12. Robust security 13. B2B and B2C options ## Magento Features ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/vGXdZzxPKAyV9rsYQjDjFbwDc4lQnIJfUGCxBcAd5qlm274vQ2Xj2gWkZTVTrOZHYBhyZWWXf8MoXGOqxYKQVE7kp18bSnAGyq4gmUNAXMgBvc6HREh1plphLPuzjkPzr3laP0Mg) 1. Analytics and reporting 2. Catalog browsing with easy navigation 3. Catalog management  4. Customer accounts with history, default billing and shipping address and more 5. Different payment methods, and supporting external paying modules  6. [SEO possibilities](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) 7. Extensive plugin/app marketplace 8. B2B and B2C options ## Plans and Pricing ### BigCommerce Pricing and Fees 1. Monthly subscription fees starting at $29.95/mo 2. Agency fees in a case where they’re used 3. Additional fees for certain apps or extensions 4. Any integrations into separate systems ### Magento Pricing and Fees 1. Licensing fees 2. Additional fees for your hosting provider  3. Fees for the web developer or agency 4. Plus costs for fixing bugs or patches for any software updates 5. Security and PCI compliance costs 6. Additional fees for certain apps or extensions 7. Any integrations into separate systems ## How to choose? There is a lot of information regarding both of these eCommerce platforms and it can be quite overwhelming to make a final decision.  Of course, the decision will most strongly rely on your specific business needs, but how do you know what to choose based on those needs?  There is a lot of space for comparing these two famous and well-used platforms for eCommerce. But if we try to summarize it all up, it would look something like this:  [***BigCommerce***](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) is the right platform for business owners that are likely to experience fast growth in the future. These businesses have a need for a lot of flexibility and scalability so they can keep up with the changing markets and customer needs. They also operate on a smaller budget and just want to go live as soon as possible. When it comes to IT, these people have no IT employees (or some) and don’t need to worry about infrastructure.  When it comes to integration, the projects are quite predictable since they are not very customizable.  A powerful API integrates well with other systems and makes transferring data between the eCommerce and the other systems easier. The processing of orders, items, inventory, and other things is automatic and incident-free. ***Magento*** is the right platform for people businesses that are already established in the market.  These businesses need extreme functionalities and customization in all fields. They also have an IT team that is working on the infrastructure all the time.  Additionally, they are not in a rush to go online as soon as possible and are willing to have a partner for maintaining the website once it’s live. With all of that, comes the bigger budget for spending on eCommerce. When it comes to integration since Magento is an open-source the integration is more complex. This means that the project can be unpredictable and end up being longer than expected. The costs of this are high.  ## Bottom line In the end, whichever platform business owners choose to build their eCommerce shop on, it won’t be wrong.  Just that according to their specific needs, one of these platforms might make the whole process much easier for them and fit their business better.  Additionally, let’s not forget that Magento has a newer version Magento 2 which is something closer to [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) meaning simplified creation of eCommerce websites, so that should be taken into account when considering these platforms.  All in all, the best person to decide which platform would best suit their businesses are the business owners but even they have to have the correct information to make that decision.  If you found this article useful, check other helpful resources here: - [Top tips on improving your Ecommerce Conversion Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) - [Effective ways of speeding up your wordpress site](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-speed-up-wordpress-site/) - [Comparison of Wix and WordPress](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-wordpress/) If you would like me to talk about any subject that you look forward to learning about, leave your comment below. You can also connect with me on Facebook [*here*](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Understanding Competitive Advantage: Definition, Types & Examples Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-competitive-advantage/ Published: 2020-08-10 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents One of the most important goals of any [business’s marketing strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-best-growth-hacking-marketing-techniques/) is to stand out when compared to its competitors.  We see this all the time, equally good products being preferred differently. What makes people choose one product instead of another if they have the same quality, or the same price, or the same function?  Usually, the answer to this question is that they have something to offer more than the competitors and this doesn’t need to be in terms of a price, or quality although it might.  That is why many businesses showcase their UPSs or unique selling points to make their case as to how they are different from all the other competitors out there.  But then the question is, if all the businesses have their USP, then they’re not that unique, huh?  If all of them broadcast what’s so special about them, then at some point the customers get desensitized in a big portion.  That’s why the differentiating has to be taken to a whole new level. That’s where competitive advantages come into play.  Figuring out what your competitive advantages are as a business or a brand can mean so much because then you can use those advantages to your leverage.  Boosting your marketing efforts and the reputation of your brand which will influence the customers’ opinion in the end is a good way to go about this.  In this post, I will talk about what competitive advantage is, which types are there, and share some examples of competitive advantages with you.  ## What is a competitive advantage? Competitive advantage is a certain attribute of a company that gives the company a favorable position on the market in comparison to the competitors.  This favorable position eventually results in more customers, and with that [higher profits](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-invest-your-profits-for-future-growth/).  In other words, it’s something that makes your brand superior in the eyes of the customers when compared to all the other competitors.  To create this type of a competitive advantage you need:  1. Deep knowledge of your target market: you need to know how your target customers think of, feel about, and need from your brand. Also, potential customers that would start buying if you offered them a good competitive advantage.  2. Deep knowledge of the competition: you have to know who is your present competition and who is an upcoming competition in the future. Then, analyze their products, prices, strategies, etc. 3. Unique Selling Propositions: these are usually the base for competitive advantage as I previously mentioned. They should be clearly defined and understandable to customers.  Read next: [What is Green marketing and how you can do it](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-green-marketing/) ## Types of Competitive Advantage  Different kinds of literature give a different number of types of competitive advantage. One of the most famous differentiations of competitive advantage is the one done by Michael Porter.  According to him, there are three types of competitive advantage strategies and those are:  1. [**Cost leadership**](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/): this means that a firm creates competitive advantage by creating economies of scale with very efficient operations, and producing large quantities of product. As a result of that, the prices for the products are low compared to the competitors due to the relatively low production costs.  2. **Differentiation**: is an extremely effective strategy when executed the right way, even though it is a less tangible and easily defined one. It refers to the ability of a business to create a good or service, that is very difficult to replicate and fulfills needs. It’s about creating a strong brand image and selling products or services as premium goods. 3. **Market segmentation**: is basically a combination or a cross between these two previous strategies. It basically targets specific segments of the market that are not yet tapped by other larger firms. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/DtKRkRa3WdDVI_S16Rxidyoixy6Yq16wNtPaMTkZPz-mab0upbu0tcjfwMQT02ayfRWkyjXJG-EvnsVOil3VrCTRktLCcj3hD3JsDx45w9FXmUbg8Nrg_X4QRS5M8cMm0xr8ISRp) Besides these ones, there are a lot of different strategies that a company can use to create a competitive advantage.  1. **Brand**: one of the biggest competitive advantage strategies out there can be said to be the brand. Businesses can capitalize big time on their brand. [Effective brand strategies](https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/) lead to customer loyalty which means that they are ready to pay more than needed to purchase the branded product.  2. **Money**: money always means power. There are companies that come on the market with very high fundings and disrupt the ecosystem with products and offers that competitors can’t offer at prices that low as a big cost-effective giant. Even though it’s just money, it is a very strong competitive advantage because other companies can’t respond with it.  3. **Network effect:** this is a strategy that when more people use a certain product it becomes more valuable to the people. For example, Whatsapp users don’t want to try other similar apps because most of their contacts use Whatsapp.  4. **Barriers to entry**: there are many barriers to entry that are imposed to the entering businesses by the old businesses like access to suppliers, trademarks and patents, etc. This means that putting a barrier to entry to other companies is also a competitive advantage because they can’t react in a very effective way.  5. **Variety of products**: if a certain company offers a wide variety of products then they can achieve efficiencies like reduced costs. This means that they can sell the same products as competitors for a lower price. Also, offering a variety of products can be a competitive advantage by itself.  6. **Know-how**: some special knowledge or abilities of the people that work with one company can also be a great competitive advantage for that company 7. **Operational processes**: effective operational processes that a certain company has can make it more effective and in the end produce more cost-effective products compared to the competitors  8. **Risk Management**: a competitive advantage can be also the ability to do great risk management which means identifying and eliminating the potential risks better than the competitors.  9. [**Reputation and Quality**](https://alejandrorioja.com/causes-of-business-reputational-damage/): if the customers, partners, the general public has a high opinion of your products and perceives them as high-quality products than that is also a competitive advantage 10. **Customer satisfaction**: if your customers are all the time satisfied and pleased by how they are treated by your company then they will always prefer you over your competitors.  11. **Trade secrets**: these are secrets that only your company knows and the competitors have no idea of them. They are not protected by law, but they are kept a secret. For example, a non-disclosure agreement for the employees to not disclose the franchisee recipe.  12. **Intellectual property**: these are the trademarks, patents, industrial designs that your company has and are protected by law and that stops other companies from using them giving you the ultimate competitive advantage 13. **Business connection**: sometimes the connections and collaborations that a company has make that company unique compared to the competition and that can be a competitive advantage too. 14. **Location:** sometimes having a superior location in comparison to your competitors can be a competitive advantage like for example the only restaurant at a city center’s square. 15. **Sustainability:** implementing social and environmental practices and goals in your working as a company can grant you an advantage and bigger reputation as well as access to capital in sustainable projects There are probably many more things that can be counted as competitive advantages, as long as they are something unique for a company that the competition doesn’t have.  ## Competitive Advantage Examples All of this so far has been theoretical with few small examples here and there.  In order to connect the theoretical knowledge with a real understanding of what competitive advantage is and how powerful it can be for a company, I will dig into some examples next.  ### 1\. Amazon  ![](/images/posts/inline/04778963-screenshot-www.aboutamazon.com-2020.08.10-21_06_01.png) The major player in the shipping industry is Amazon for some time now, and that’s for a reason.  They have an enormous amount of shipments per day which makes them one of the top valuable companies in the world.  What they offer to their customers is a high efficiency, accuracy, and the biggest perk of all- speed.  That is exactly the competitive advantage that Amazon has and that made the company one of the richest ones in the world.  The product that offers top speed is their Amazon Prime membership which guarantees people two-day shipping on all the products that are eligible for the Prime membership.  With this offering, Amazon did two things.  Firstly, they condition the customers in a way in which even if they intend to try the Prime membership only once after receiving their products in two days they will not be willing to wait again five to seven days for standard shipping.  This will make them more inclined to continue paying the premium membership.  Secondly, in this way more purchases are encouraged since the shipping time is actually one of the main reasons why people decide not to purchase something online.  Relevant: Read about some of the top competitors of Amazon [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-amazon-competitors/) ### 2\. Facebook  ![](/images/posts/inline/0319dbec-screenshot-about.fb_.com-2020.08.10-21_09_18.png) Facebook is the largest and most used social media platform in the world. As such, it enjoys a strong competitive advantage over the competitors.  One of the strongest competitive advantages is the network effect which I explained earlier.  It’s simple, all the people, events, institutions, businesses- are on Facebook. That is why many people still have a profile because they are afraid of missing out.  Another big competitive advantage is the deep pockets of the company which I also explained previously. This gives them power over their competitors and imposes some barriers to entry for smaller companies.  Additionally, the constant innovations, [personalized content](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/), [advertisement model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/), and many other smaller things are just adding new dimensions to their competitive advantage strategy. ### 3\. Apple  ![](/images/posts/inline/a6431357-screenshot-www.apple_.com-2020.08.10-21_08_37.png) Apple is also one of the richest companies in the world and one of the most famous brands.  As a company, it experiences very strong loyalty from its customers and the way they created that can be considered of their competitive advantages.  They created a brand that connects intimately with the customers forming emotional attachment so customers want to have it no matter the cost.  This is one of the highest forms of competitive advantage and can bring obviously a very big profit to the company.  Everything about the apple products is a unique experience, a sensory pleasure. From the weights of the products to the boxes they come in.  That is how paying attention to the customers and the design to affect the user experience and construct loyal relationships is playing out for Apple. ## Bottom line Even though there are several official types of competitive advantage, anything can become a company’s advantage as long as it’s unique as I previously stated.  Your strategy can consist of one competitive advantage, or it can consist of multiple mixed strategies.  Anyhow, you have to think deeply about why your offering is special and why would the customers choose your product over the others on the market.  Put yourself in their shoes and try to look at this from their perspective. That is how you can define your points of differentiation and start creating a successful competitive advantage strategy.  Did you learn some new things about competitive advantages? Next, check out these other posts:  - [Understanding land and expand strategy and how to implement it?](https://alejandrorioja.com/land-and-expand/)  - [3 psychology tricks you need to implement in your marketing strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/psychology-tricks-marketing-strategy/) - [The top growth hacking stories you need to know for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/) Which type of competitive advantage do you think is the easiest to achieve? Leave a comment letting me know. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Which eCommerce Platform Is Best For Small Businesses? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/which-ecommerce-platform-is-best-for-small-businesses/ Published: 2020-08-10 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: E-commerce ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Commerce has been around for a long time, and it’s getting easier with time and digital development.  In the past, if somebody wanted to open up a store and sell some products they needed a physical location that they had to either buy or rent out.  That is one of the reasons why in the past people had to have some sort of savings to start up a store from scratch. Since then, things have changed drastically. I mean, of course, there are still physical stores and you can opt to open one with the same processes as in the past, but a more frequent way that people start is digital.  Having an online store means less investment in physical things, but you still need a place where you can sell your products. Even though this place is digital, there are still some expenses, and other types of decisions tied to it.  [Starting to build your virtual storefront](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) can be quite challenging in terms of choosing the right platform that your store will be based on.  There is a vast [sea of eCommerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-vs-magento/) out there that can fit into all types and sizes of eCommerce needs.  But when it comes to choosing, you can feel overwhelmed by the number of platforms out there and get confused about what your needs are as a small business that’s just starting up.  Of course, almost all of the platforms claim they are the best choice for small businesses, but which ones are truly right?  In this post, I will dive into several of the most suitable eCommerce platforms for small businesses and give you enough information so you can make an informed decision in the end. ## Features to consider when choosing  Before we get into the specific platforms, you have to think about what you need or what’s important for your businesses to have. Once you have that decided, you can go ahead and look over the platforms and what they offer, and choose the one that fits your needs the most.  1. **Cost**: the cost is a very important feature especially if you’re just starting out and you have limited resources. The costs for eCommerce platforms can range from free versions to thousands of dollars depending on many factors like the features you need and the size of the business. Most of them have some sort of a free trial where you can experience the perks of the platform before making a decision. Make sure that the price covers all the necessary features like hosting, add-ons, etc.  2. **Scalability**: it is also a very important feature because it takes your future in consideration. Even though now your resources are limited and you need fewer features, in the future as your business succeeds you might have to add additional features and solutions. That is why you have to choose a platform that will allow your business to grow in the future without it being too complicated or costing an arm and a leg.  3. **Customizable URL**: your shops’ URL has to be customizable so your customers can find you very easily. This has to be included in the platform’s plan because the success of your store depends on it.  4. **Mobile-friendly**: lately, the majority of people are using their mobile devices to purchase products online more than computers. This means that you have to take into account how mobile-friendly the platform is, and how the design can be tailored to fit that.  5. **UX:** on the same page, the user experience that the platform offers is also quite important. The page should be very easy to navigate from the customer’s perspective because no matter how good it looks if the customers have problems with it then it’s a failed experiment.  6. **Speed**: last but definitely not least is [website speed](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/). It is a known fact that people feel frustrated when they have to wait for more than just a few seconds for a page to load. This can lead to a high churn and low conversion rate. Slow-loading pages will absolutely cost you sales in the long run. There are other features that can be taken into consideration, but I just want to keep it simple and easy, suitable for people that are just starting now, and have a lot on their plate.  If you take into consideration these factors, you should be set for the start at least. Read next: the [best eCommerce platforms in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) ## eCommerce platforms for small businesses ### Wix ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/fRkmO2Gi81aDe6pBKjcNk2Jqh4zwui9tItbJo2r3UvfA3H1z6wHmWZp5hyLrr4ccruZJoS_45UKQ2U5YRp_XyQFxMqhhdePaA4oTQ2IjPlSNNQ69CeIzXsFQCZZjBgOCkqRhOhe4) [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is one of the platforms suitable for small businesses that have less than 50 unique products for selling.  The whole creation of the website is quite easy since Wix has a “drag and drop” feature which enables even people with limited technical knowledge to create good-looking and functional eCommerce stores.  With that, you can very easily add or remove features as you wish and create a customized storefront for your small business.  #### Pricing ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GZ9CPZEAvhuJTxGPOQHnIt0gfqCZbJbb0BlLECDgxqatPtYSYQTdpcUiZSvoreemtqzb7uyAzh1suOBuwdqhcNbjz0F3WeUyK0r4vu9Dow0jLx0l8hrt9cOCuUOK0I_qV-sS3w9G) When it comes to pricing, Wix is highly affordable. Their Business Basic plan is just 17 euros per month and with that, you get even a free domain for a year among other features.  If you choose the Business Unlimited plan, you get additional features like Analytics App, professional logo, and social media logo files. And the price is not that high still, 25 euros per month.  There is also a VIP plan which comes with a priority response and VIP support for your needs.  #### **Pros**  1. Templates to choose from  2. Great flexibility 3. App market 4. Animations 5. Automatic site backup 6. Artificial design intelligence  #### Cons 1. Ads in cheaper plans 2. Loading speed that’s not ideal 3. Templates can’t be changed  4. Not very much customizable  Relevant: [Wix Vs. Squarespace: What’s The Best Website Builder In The Market?](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) ### Shopify ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/RHYuvRF_Niq8V4Z1OtikNzSYBD5H_ib8xqBRZ9r1RqUrNPNebzQFZYHwDS6ExrUr4I9r6SglNkbOsBkyI2Tf7c4bUmtjuSdZSv5kNrzRCc315-gCoEKFK5QibGOHdxiM6fTbNOYa) We can’t talk about eCommerce without mentioning [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), for sure. It’s one of the best eCommerce platforms that are offered on the market at the moment.  What makes it one of the best is the fact that it offers some amazing sales features that are considered to be industry-leading tools.  Also, there is a big, rich app market with countless plugins that can be used.  Shopify is for people that want to build the ultimate eCommerce experience, and in that context is a much richer platform than Wix.  #### **Pricing**  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/K3bG-NG8pHkneStVMNpczdhEpzFL1jbele0AoXAKI1IUXh_wxIsc_ScztLiLElda4XCokh0rKWFyYVhgD8ChcbdehkHS-MFiLP9FtNQT0HKC0To-e8g6YHrD9AtedKJgQSYg7v4O) When it comes to pricing, Shopify is logically more expensive than Wix for example. That comes naturally with the richer features and possibilities.  The cheapest Basic Shopify plan is available for 29 dollars per month, and according to their website, it includes all the basics you need for starting a new business.  The second plan is Shopify for 79 dollars per month and it’s all you need for a growing business.  The best and most expensive plan is the Advance Shopify which costs 299 dollars per month and it’s offering advanced features for scaling your business.  If you are just starting out, you should consider only the first option.  Additionally, there is a 14-day free trial that requires no credit card information so you can check it out before making a decision.  #### Pros 1. A lot of themes available 2. Free trial  3. A high amount of plugins 4. Unlimited products on all plans 5. Integrated payment options  #### Cons 1. Not a very cheap option 2. Additional fees can add up 3. Limited blogging platform ### Squarespace ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5wM5j2c_6K6owJTGmQ7Ad3Zuv0Osk3c8rmyO6YUajFsk-RB5U12A1dB20wNtAiUKOEOZYt78NE0J9WGj2-VmdnchrLjj7zKXDpYL8d8OCd5udcfgO4WncWb2uwjZjjwbhaG7ha01) Squarespace is a suitable option for small businesses because it provides a simple website builder that still makes the final product look amazing.  There are many theme templates that you can use to build your eCommerce store, and you get access to the inventory management system. This system can be integrated into the site to keep track of the inventory and let you know when you need to re-stock certain products. Squarespace has quite a lot of features that you can use to offer a great buying experience to your customers.  #### Pricing ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vPlzC2D1Z66QkmCo_MaGXnzOhAtsdtMaeGpv273F-cPDguIs_lUE-ppRHaZfjszwLjBGE3u7fMK034zGVnZEGVsHzhy2uziSGN7kIql03Pb8kuLrQ_pWL-1Pz89s3zzO-xKsYDKZ) Squarespace has a few different plans according to the needs that their customers have.  In this context, the most relevant plans are Basic Commerce which is 24 dollars per month, and Advanced Commerce which is 36 dollars per month.  The difference is that with the advanced plan you get some additional features like abandoned cart recovery, sell subscriptions, advanced shipping, advanced discounts, and commerce APIs.  Other than that, even the basic plan has pretty much all you need to start and lead a successful eCommerce business. #### **Pros**  1. Easy to set up  2. Amazing designs 3. Good SEO tools 4. Integrates with ShipStation and ShipBob 5. Suitable for simple stores #### **Cons**  1. No Amazon integration 2. No dropshipping 3. Speed not extremely optimal 4. No app store 5. No marketing automation integration 6. No free option Relevant: You would also like to read the comparison of wix and squarespace [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/)  ### WooCommerce (WordPress) ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qs92jUJqKg-HCmNCdkpU_aWcUMuHyTcy9x3O8iQH5wb5gwT6RhXjRyWeuaGn8okOp7v_mSknhNEiiLdS3VfbVUdXT6exw4Tm8uyYhfCp7aiJPmnoLqC_pICbqxmmp2O0WtxN7fp7) WordPress for businesses that need to have an advanced blog along with their eCommerce platform.  It’s fairly easy to connect the plugin [WooCommerce to your WordPress](https://alejandrorioja.com/woocommerce-vs-shopify/) and with that, it’s quite easy to create a website that is functional for eCommerce activities.  The biggest asset of WordPress is that it allows for creating extremely customizable websites with different features. It’s an open-source eCommerce so you can add basically any eCommerce functionality that you can think of.  The plugin is very user-friendly and there is an enormous community of developers that can help you create the best eCommerce store for your business.  #### Pricing Technically WooCommerce is free to use since it is an open-source solution. However, you can’t use WooCommerce only because it’s a plugin. You need to purchase or pay hosting and also payment gateways. #### Pros 1. No limit on products and orders 2. You can add extra features  3. Very affordable with your own hosting 4. Thousands of themes  5. Very customizable 6. No limit on selling  #### Cons  1. Some technical knowledge is needed to set it up 2. Needs a third-party payment gateway ### Weebly It is a very budget-friendly platform that is enough for getting you started. There is even a free version that you can use which is pretty great for beginners. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qa8GURfOTEr27x0WnBMXZqObXOrWU8LV5X8qta2XcOvS1FVXt7wzrv-uDUR6PuGKAcQH0EuzIFSQNVbcdflo2oS7sQW7F2hTl8_PN1NaTZ_Hm9FgKMXZruRyALzkj4ga3LMPLmmn) If you are really just starting up and have a very limited budget, you might want to look into Weebly.  Additionally, the platform is very easy to use, so pretty much anybody with basic technical knowledge can use it to build an eCommerce shop. #### **Pricing**  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/GZbNj7cUCrgA1_MehP4uDiYcxafWcJvkNt0u07jrvc09yOe1_C0NNWITvS9LJfS9jsvl-xumySTmQppTGbhHnT-78pj6pRvdtzmTJncaJmH3OMTYBB4vdLrO0BN8nIPtdS4oWhIl) When it comes to pricing for Online stores specifically, the cheapest plan is 10 dollars per month paid annually. With that, you get a free domain and a bunch of other functionalities.  The Business plan is 20 dollars per month paid annually, and the Business plus is 20 dollars per month with additional email marketing features.  #### Pros  1. Beginner-friendly and very easy to use 2. Themes to choose from 3. Integrated apps 4. Very affordable #### Cons 1. Limited design options 2. Checkout page can’t be customized 3. Not ideal for international websites ## Wrapping up! These are just some of the best-suited platforms for small businesses in my opinion. As I previously mentioned, there are a lot more out there that you can explore and compare until you make the final decision.  The biggest problems for small businesses usually are limited budget and limited employee count meaning there won’t be a developer to help out with the setting of the website.  In this context, choosing a platform that is very easy to set up and with acceptable prices is the priority,  Of course, also taking scalability into account since your success in the future might make you expand and add different functionalities.  If you found this post helpful, check out next these eCommerce posts: - [Guide on setting up your eCommerce business from scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) - [Comparison of Shopify and Amazon](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) - [Top effective ways to improve your eCommerce conversion rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) Leave a comment if you have any questions related to eCommerce. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Speed Up WordPress Site? Effective Tips & Tricks Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-speed-up-wordpress-site/ Published: 2020-08-07 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO TL;DR: 40% of them will leave your website if it loads for more than 3 seconds. That is a huge portion of visitors to lose for a thing that you can work on and improve. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. In this day and age, the speed of a website has an enormous influence over the business in general.  Learning how to tune up your WordPress site can be a very beneficial skill for you as the owner of a website.  The reason why the speed of the website is extremely important is that it influences a lot of things like traffic rates, bounce rates, [conversion rates](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/), customer experience, and more. Eventually, all of those things lead to influencing the profit.   That is why in this article I will try to get into why the speed of the website is important, which things influence the speed, how you can measure your website’s speed.  After that, I will give you some tips and techniques that you can implement or pay attention to so your WordPress site will load faster.  ## Why is site speed important?  ![](/images/posts/inline/76aa59da-elderly-man-is-using-mobile-phone_53876-30130.jpg) Before we get deeper into this subject, let’s start with the basics. [Site speed](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) is extremely important. But why?  1. **First impression**: the speed of the site is the first impression your site will leave on visitors and first impressions matter. Customers on the internet make an instant judgment about your business by visiting your site. User experience is extremely important when it comes to first impressions, and how fast or slow your website loads is a big part of the UX. Slow-loading websites often give out an impression of untrustworthy and insecure.  2. **Expectations**: the improvement of the internet and constant evolution creates certain expectations for the users. In the past, we would wait for a page to load for even minutes, but today’s standards are far from that. We demand fast sites, and we expect businesses to have them too. Moreover, if the brand is established people tend to be more patient like for example if your Facebook is not loading. But for small businesses and people that are first coming to your page, the patience is quite low.  3. **Good user experience**: it is what makes you stand out from the competition. If you really offer a great UX you can make a deep impression on your customers. A good UX is always simple and fast. This means that you can’t offer a good UX without first offering great speed. Slow-loading websites frustrate people, and frustrated people do not have a good user experience.  4. **Lost conversions**: patience is scarce among internet users. 40% of them will leave your website if it loads for more than 3 seconds. That is a huge portion of visitors to lose for a thing that you can work on and improve. You lose visitors-you lose money. It’s just the way things work.  5. **Google rank:** there is not a website out there (at least a good one) that doesn’t thrive to rank better on Google. Having a better Google rank can truly bring success to your business. At Google, they truly appreciate speed because they are trying to make the whole web as fast as possible. That is why speed is taken into account when pages rank and not just on Google, but also on other search engines. Read: [3 Easy Steps to Get Your Website To The Top of Google in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) ## Things that influence site speed  The speed of any website is a result of many complex things. I will mention a few to give you an idea of what those things could be:  1. **The server and hosting technology**: there are different types of hosting that influence the speed. Also, the technology that is used in the servers both hardware and software plays a role. Things like is the server using the latest versions of HTML, PHP, etc, SSD hard drives memory, and more. The server location plays a role in the speed too. Servers that are closer to the visitors requesting the site are generally faster. 2. **The software powering the site**: in this case, it’s WordPress. How it’s built and on which principle works is relevant to the speed. Moreover, WordPress has tons of plugins, themes, and other add-ons. Although they make the sites better, they can also make the sites slower by adding extra code that has to load.  3. **Devices of users**: determine how fast will the site pop on the screen on the user. The majority of users use mobile devices nowadays, which means they often have less processing power and slower internet. There is nothing you can do to influence other people’s devices, of course, but you should keep this in mind when you are making your website.  ## Testing site speed  Before you try to improve your site speed, you should actually know how fast or slow your site is at the moment.  There are some free tools out there that can measure your site speed, but be aware that the results on all of them might differ.  Do proper research before trusting a certain tool.  Some often used tools for testing the speed of your site are:  1. [Gtmetrix](https://gtmetrix.com/) 2. [Pingdom](https://tools.pingdom.com/) 3. [Google speed insight](https://developers.google.com/speed/pagespeed/insights/)  ## How to speed up WordPress site ![](/images/posts/inline/633a74ea-pasted-image-0-55.png) At this point, you are familiar with why the speed of your site is important, what things influence it, and how to measure your current speed.[](https://kinsta.com/it/knowledgebase/amministrazione-wordpress/) It’s time to get into what you can do to improve the speed of your WordPress site.  ### 1\. Choose a good host  [Shared hosting providers](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/) are looking good on paper with their offers of unlimited bandwidth, emails, domains, etc.  But the hosting of your website is something that influences the speed quite a lot.  Shared hosting can fail you in times where there is peak traffic and overall provide a poor performance since they are shared with many other websites.  I understand that the prices are more affordable that way, but the web-hosting industry has really advanced and the cloud hosting providers lowered their price quite a lot.  The host is the place where your website is housed and it is not the place where you can skim since here you get what you pay for.  Do the proper research before you make a decision.  ### 2\. Use a caching plugin  Plugins are quite useful in WordPress and some of the best ones when it comes to speeding up a site are the caching plugins.  These plugins store the final view of the site and the future visitors get that version.  Your WordPress won’t have to generate the site to every person that visits the site in the future and hence make it quite faster to load.  Do your research or speak with your host provider for the right type of plugin to use for cache since some of them might be too complex and end up making more damage than help out. Keep in mind that a lot of websites use these plugins to cover up deeper issues with performance.  Avoid doing that. The cache plugin should be an additional help, not a fix up for all the other problems like low-quality hosting, slow themes, bloated databases, etc.  ### 3\. Optimize images  Images are something that makes your website what it is. You can’t possibly skim on images that make the design of your website alive.  [Good visuals can truly motivate people](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/) to keep reading your content, but if they aren’t properly optimized they can do a lot of harm to the website.  Images that are not optimized properly are one of the most common reasons behind speed problems.  Use photo editing software to optimize the images before you upload them to your website. I assume that you are using very good, high-quality images which in their original formats are huge files.  You have to compress them and make them tolerable to be on the website.  ### 4\. Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN) Chances are, the people that are visiting your site are accessing it from all around the world which means the loading speed differs for them.  Using a CDN can help you by keeping the loading speed of the site low for visitors that access the site from certain countries.  The CDN will keep a copy of the website in several data centers in different places.  Its primary function is to serve the site to a visitor from a location that is as close to the visitor as possible.  ### 5\. Verify Your Plugins Another thing you have to take into consideration if you want to keep the speed on your site on a good level are plugins that might be inactive or for some reason do not work properly.  Verify if the current plugins are working correctly since sometimes they might cause some lagging in the loading of your website.  Test a little bit about how fast they are working. For this testing, you can get another plugin Query Monitor which will report any potential problems that the plugins cause your website.  Try to remove or change the plugins that are causing problems, and also keep in mind that even having too much of well-functioning plugins can be slowing down your website.  ### 6\. Use Speed Optimized Theme  There are some amazing-looking themes for your website that are in fact coded in a not very optimized way and can damage the speed of your website.  When you are selecting a theme, make sure that it’s a theme that works smoothly. It’s always better to pick a theme that is not too complex and filled with different types of features, animations, layouts, etc. You better choose a theme that is simple and then add these features via WordPress plugins.  ### 7\. Optimize the Homepage This is not a button you can click and your whole homepage will be optimized.  It is a sum of a few things that you can make to ensure that the homepage loading time is not too big. This is very important because the homepage is the most probable place where the visitors will land so you want to make it as fast as you possibly can. Things you can do to improve the homepage are: 1. Show fewer posts on the page 2. Show only necessary sharing widgets on the homepage 3. Discard inactive plugins and widgets 4. Be minimalistic, focus on the content, not widgets  5. Have a clean, clear design  6. Show excerpts, not full posts Read: [How To Design A Landing Page: A Step By Step Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/) There are many other things that can be done to influence the speed of your site like: 1. Optimizing WordPress database 2. Disabling hotlinking 3. Disabling pingbacks and trackbacks 4. Enabling GZIP compression 5. Use lazy loading  6. Use latest PHP version 7. Update WordPress frequently ## Bottom line Making your website faster will help you out immensely in improving the user experience thus making your business thrive.  Big loading time is bad no matter if it’s on the PC version or mobile devices.  The benefits of having a fast loading website, as discussed earlier, as quite important for the success of your business overall.  You will achieve better UX, better SERPs rankings, more conversions, lower bounce rates, etc.  If you found this post helpful, check out these other posts related to WordPress: - [How To Create An Awesome Logo For Your WordPress Site](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/) - [5 Features That Make WordPress Great](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) - [How To Create An Awesome Logo For Your WordPress Site](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/) Leave a comment letting me know what else you would be interested in for my next posts. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## SiteGround Review: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/siteground-review/ Published: 2020-08-07 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: The platform is powered by Google Cloud in order to create a powerful and technically superior hosting service as they have stated on their website. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* When it comes to web hosting, selection of the [right service provider](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/) is crucial because your website’s performance and ultimately success will depend on it. There are a handful of hosting service providers I absolutely vouch for and [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) is one of them. SiteGround is a company that dates back to 2004 when a few Bulgarian students created it in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria.  According to the most recent data, [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) services above 2 million domains all over the world. Other features that it offers are shared hosting, cloud hosting, enterprise solutions, email hosting, and domain registration.  Their point of difference is their extremely professional and helpful customer support that is available 24/7d uring all the days of the year.  SiteGround has a lot to offer according to its website and online research, but how much of it is true, and what are the benefits and shortcomings?  In this post, I will dig into [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/), its features, the pros and cons, pricing, and their affiliate program.  ## SiteGround Overview  According to its website, [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) offers a few different types of hosting like shared, WordPress, cloud, and dedicated plans.  Additionally, they offer specialized plans as well.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/90rq-LyGDEGDGdGCiWlDhrzJGLrXsOqyu4phK4kM9GPtu5MJU9XephBAFIU6vQMBLACH7gyk9B-xydHqwsN4-tVGJw3Po5tpteOR6ecv6sZbe1_TQULe5UUPh7aW0mcUi2iA6_sY) There are free Cloudflare CDNs and SSL certificates. The plans are offering quite a few features that their customers seem to appreciate.  Another thing that is extremely important with hosting, is that their servers are very good with uptime that will impress you for sure.  The platform is powered by Google Cloud in order to create a powerful and technically superior hosting service as they have stated on their website.  Relevant: [Is GoDaddy worth choosing as a web hosting service provider?](https://alejandrorioja.com/godaddy-review/) ## SiteGround Features and Prices  ### Web Hosting  [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) offers fast and secure web hosting for both personal and business use.  The key elements of web hosting that SiteGround takes care of are the following:  1. **Very fast sites**: the fact that the platform is developed on Google Cloud and uses their networks along with the SSF storage makes the sites quite fast. Additionally, the SiteGroud team configures the servers and does speed optimization.  2. **Top security**: security is one of the most important things in web hosting so [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) offers Let’s Encrypt SSL free of charge to keep all your data safe. Daily backups are done.  3. **Managing WordPress hosting**: WordPress installation is included in all the planes with all its benefits. Additionally, they offer expert assistance on WordPress. 4. **Managing the domain**: access to all the ways of managing the domain like registration, transferring, domain management panes, DNS services, and more.  The prices for web hosting are divided into three different plans that you can choose according to the features that you need or prefer.  The cheapest option is the StartUp plan with a price of €3.95 per month. For this price, you get quite a few functionalities like:  1. 1 website 2. 10 GB web space 3. Suitable for ~ 10,000 monthly visits 4. Unlimited data transfer 5. Domain, SSL, CDN for free 6. Free email account 7. Unlimited MySQL databases The second plan is the GrowBig plan and their best seller. The price for it is €6.45 per month 1. Multiple websites 2. 20 GB web space 3. Suitable for ~ 25,000 monthly visits 4. Unlimited data transfer 5. Free email account 6. Unlimited MySQL databases 7. Additional features The most expensive plan and the most extensive one is GoGeek for €11.95 per month. With this plan you get:  1. Multiple websites 2. 40 GB web space 3. Suitable for ~ 100,000 monthly visits 4. Unlimited data transfer 5. Domain, SSL, CDN for free 6. Free email account 7. Unlimited MySQL databases 8. Additional features like advanced priority assistance and more ### WordPress Hosting  WordPress is extremely useful and can [create top-notch websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-speed-up-wordpress-site/) that excel in speed, design, and eCommerce.  However, it is not the easiest tool to get around especially if you have no previous experience or connection with web development.  That is why [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) offers a complete WordPress hosting and service for all types of sites. They offer to manage your WordPress to the best of their abilities. They can help you with the quick creation of WordPress site, WordPress mitigation, security and updates, and overall WordPress performance.  The price plans here correspond to the ones in Web Hosting. There are however some additional features offered in them like:  1. Free WP installation 2. WordPress Mitigator  3. Auto-updates WP 4. WP CLI and SSH ### WooCommerce Hosting  WooCommerce is an extremely helpful plugin on WordPress that allows you to sell products online and do it like a professional.  The same problems arise here as with WordPress; people that are not that technologically savvy might have difficulty creating a good selling platform using WooCommerce.  That is why SiteGround offers creation of WooCommerce stores and mitigation of WooCommerce for those who need it.  The functionalities and prices are the same here as well.  Relevant: You would also like to read the comparison between WooCommerce and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/woocommerce-vs-shopify/)  ### Cloud Hosting  [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) offers to manage cloud hosting so you can take your business to the next level.  They offer guaranteed resources that are dedicated and optimized for being efficient to the maximum extent. Also, speed is another thing that is guaranteed so your site can have a great performance.  The most experienced developers will help you out with setting and managing the cloud account, and offer supports.  Another great thing about cloud hosting is that it is very scalable so your business can grow in the future without any problem.  You can add more CPU and RAM at all times and it’s just a click away. One extremely great feature is the automatic scaling option that will automatically add more resources when sudden spikes in traffic are detected.  This way, the loss of traffic and downtime are nipped in the bud.  Cloud hosting has four plans that vary in functionalities and prices. The first one is Entry for getting started. The price is €64 per month and it includes the following: 1. 2 CPU Cores 2. 4GB Memory 3. 40GB Disk Space 4. 5TB Data Transfer  The second plan is the Business Plan with a price of €96 per month. It includes the following:  1. 3 CPU Cores 2. 6GB Memory 3. 60GB Disk Space 4. 5TB Data Transfer  Next, there is the Business + plan with a price of €128 per month and the following characteristics: 1. 4 CPU Cores 2. 8GB Memory 3. 80GB Disk Space 4. 5TB Data Transfer  And finally, the Super Power plan with a price of €192 per month and the following characteristics:  1. 8 CPU Cores 2. 10GB Memory 3. 120GB Disk Space 4. 5TB Data Transfer  ### Custom Cloud Hosting If the previously presented plans for cloud hosting do not correspond with your needs and you need something more, or less, or some other ratio between the functionalities, you can use the Custom Cloud Hosting feature.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mLhe2Kt8KOPQeSLvAEl2eQt3BQXr5cEAhYyQH6L8dCZrDsJBFHoTqrMnmrUGHQmsWtuYn67DGfz2GzOSmYzH1-7NoPRyXyEaVoOAumk8Zs3SS25wB7pBIZ8osQZ05G9wSsj7tuu2) On the [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) website, you can go to the Cloud hosting managed, and into Create your cloud plan.  The four existing plans are offered up. If I need for example 11 Cores CPU, 70GB Memory and 260GB SSD space, with just dragging the blue buttons I can customize my own plan. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/cYE-J_SavAKGQh3Hil_8JyScUWinB49F25isYsksZpeh4_MzfVOx1u0yB3p18Y_4LxwAw82WAC3ws1RN2_0Sa4jILopSSMDI-3JWkiSW-bZ6Xv23RLYRLHbv_gnTlRs1EEIR-eg7) In this case, the price would be €752 per month. You can really get exactly what you need with this option.  ## Pros and Cons of SiteGround I am all for fair and honest reviews, so it’s important we look at the advantages and disadvantages of [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/).  ### Pros 1. High-speed hosting due to their software and hardware 2. Some of the best available uptime out there 3. Easy to use with integrated features 4. Top-notch customer support and assistance  5. Free mitigation 6. Choosing a server location 7. Unlimited traffic ### Cons 1. Not very cheap price according to the market 2. Contracts that last for 12 months or more 3. Plugin for mitigation  4. No free domain name 5. Free mitigation is only for one site ## Affiliate program  You can become an affiliate with [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) which can earn you some commission money. If you are interested, you can visit their website and sign up. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/gu_rHc9afevytQJ_xfpL3A8pBmJPs5MeCdg6VFP9viQwZu4keVXGlBjUjD4ezl1M3TnEwR8LJ8m1qawUVmhuP3KNOAX-0KSTJ4nZn_C2G2IgK3oWmDquSSQozGn6XBiZLovhjAqP) The process of signing up as an affiliate and earning a commission is not too complicated and it can be learned quite fast.  The first thing you need to do to get started is obviously set up your affiliate account. It’s quite easy and straight-forward. Click on the “Sign up now” button and fill out the form that appears. You will have to set up your payment preferences, via PayPal,  and minimum payout amount.  Affiliates that generate high commissions, can do a wire transfer.  Another thing you will have to provide is tax information depending on the country you live in and the requirements there.  For US based affiliates, Form W-9 should be filled out, for EU citizens VAT or TAX ID, and for everybody else a Form W-8BEN. After you’re all set up, you can start sending your affiliate link to potential clients. The link has a special tracking code which will track the sales made from your referrals.  This link can be found in My Account>Affiliate>My Campaigns>Default Campaign. Also, it will be sent to you in your welcome email.  You can copy and paste this link wherever you prefer, on your website, social media, other platforms, send it via emails, etc.  The more people purchase the products, the higher your commission will be.  If you are decided at this point to pursue being an affiliate for SiteGround, then I will share with you some tips for effective affiliate promotion from my personal experience:  ### Best channels to promote SiteGround 1. Website: if you have a website with some following, using banners that promote [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) and send traffic to them is a good idea.  2. Blogs: blogging is still one of the best ways to engage in affiliate programs. Write posts, reviews, comparisons, etc.  3. Email: email subscriptions can be also used to make sure that your commission rises to higher levels 4. Social Media: the [opportunities to promote on social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) are truly vast! You can get as creative as you want and even use ads to promote SiteGround. 5. Videos: video content is on the rise lately and can be a great marketing channel. 6. Courses: if you have courses that you are offering you can incorporate SiteGround into them or even do a course specifically for it 7. Direct recommendations: for clients that you feel comfortable with and can let know that you are an affiliate with SiteGround while recommending their services ### How to use banners to promote SiteGround Using banners can be very successful, but you should know how to properly use them: 1. Choose the proper placement: place them next to relevant content so they can grab the attention of the reader.  2. Keep it simple: don’t do multiple, flashy banners all over the page. You want to suggest, not annoy.  ### How to write converting content 1. Speak to the needs of the readers: quality content is all about looking at things from the perspective of the readers. Think about what you would like to hear if for example you experienced slow site speed.  2. Personalize the content: tell your story, your experiences, your struggles. We all go through them, and people can sympathize easily if you are personal.  3. Don’t write on one subject only: even though the content is targeting a specific industry or a few of them, try to write a wide range of content ## Wrapping up! [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) is truly a great hosting provider that excels in the things that are important in this aspect like uptime, speed, technical capabilities, etc.  Another extremely helpful thing about [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) that I have to repeat again is their extremely helpful customer support that is truly there for your every need connected to your difficulties and problems with [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/).  What more can you ask for? There are different plans that you can choose from according to your needs SiteGround should definitely be taken into consideration for anybody that is seriously considering great hosting providers.  Head to [SiteGround](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/siteground/) and find out if they are the right fit for you.  If you found this review helpful, you can check other reviews that I have written like:  - [Surfer SEO Review: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons](https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/) - [BuzzSumo Review: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzsumo-review/) - [Generating Leads With OptinMonster: A 2020 Review](https://alejandrorioja.com/optinmonster-review/) What would you like to read in my next review? Comment your suggestions below! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Guest Posting Services & The Companies That Offer Them Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-posting-services/ Published: 2020-08-04 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: SEO TL;DR: But, when it comes to guest posting, Google is in complete agreement with the process. Now, speaking of the benefits of guest posting, here are a few for you to take note of: 1. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Guest posting is a brilliant technique used in the domain of SEO that can get you amazing backlinks to your website. Now this definition might suffice for the ones who are already aware of what guest posts are and why backlinks seem to be important in SEO. But, for the ones who are looking for a more concrete definition, here is what you need to know. Guest posting is the process of writing a well-researched article on a particular niche for another person’s website. In simpler terms, guest posting is when you blog for someone else. Now you might be left wondering about the benefits that this process holds to your website and the cause of your business! I will explain that bit in the next section, but before we do that, you must know that the [SEO techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) are ever-changing and ever-evolving. They need to be set in tandem with Google’s metrics that keeps changing every now and then to enhance user-experience. And guest posting happens to be just one of those many metrics that have shown great results. Now, on to more about the same! ## **How Is Guest Posting a Mutually Beneficial Process?** Guest posting, as mentioned in the previous section, has several benefits. These benefits are not just restricted to getting exposure on someonelse’ website. It is a mutually beneficial process, one that is an outright white hat link building technique. Google does not seem to be very happy about any kind of link building practices because they do not fall within the category of [white hat SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). But, when it comes to guest posting, Google is in complete agreement with the process. Now, speaking of the benefits of guest posting, here are a few for you to take note of: 1. Guest posting helps webmasters to acquire premium quality articles for their website, which happens to be a great ranking factor. 2. Guest posting also helps blog owners to generate high-quality internal links. 3. Guest posting helps contributors to establish authority in the specific niche. 4. Guest posting helps contributors to expand their audience base and gain more authority. 5. Guest posting helps in acquiring supreme quality backlinks and drive the required organic traffic to the concerned website. This, thus, results in a [higher ranking of the website](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) on Google. ## **Is It Wise to Rope in an SEO Agency for the Task of Guest Posting?** It is always a great decision if you hire a professional to do the job of writing excellent guest posts for you, in return for a nominal fee for the service. Professionals have been in the industry for a long time, enough to understand the pulse of the market. And that is why they know the lines on which they must function. Some companies that offer excellent [guest posting services](https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/) are as follows- ### **SERPninja** ![](/images/posts/inline/20e90ddf-screenshot-serpninja.io-2020.07.28-20_34_07.png) They offer guest posting services sprawling across a variety of niches, which means that you can reach out to them for whatever it is that you require in your guest blogging endeavor. The guest posts adhere to the golden rule of SEO. ‘[Content is King](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-followers-on-tiktok/),’ with well-crafted and deeply researched articles being written by professionals who have been studying the ins and outs of the English language for years. The guest posts that the folks at SERPninja develop are placed on high-quality websites, manually outreached, and with an excellent site authority that does not have PBNs on them. Plus, if you are worried about the site health on which the guest posts shall be placed, rest assured that every single site that is encompassed within their database is examined and analyzed by seasoned SEO experts. Therefore, if you have your mindset on acquiring some perfectly safe and contextual backlinks which are manually outreached, SERPnina is your way to go! Their [guest blogging service](https://serpninja.io/guest-posts/) is one of a kind in the market and shall make every dime you spend on the service, worth it. ### **Sirlinksalot** ![](/images/posts/inline/5856afda-screenshot-sirlinksalot.co-2020.07.28-20_10_59.png) These folks offer their guest posting service across several niches that shall have you covered for most of your guest posting needs. The sites on their database are carefully curated by experts so that you only get the best website for your guest posts. The metrics that are conformed to while developing these posts and reaching out to sites all adhere to Google’s set standards, and therefore, you can be certain that what you are receiving from their end is only quality service that has the potential to drive organic traffic to your site and generate [high-quality backlinks](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-prospecting/). They have a highly efficient team that works towards coming up with great topic ideas for your concerned niche so that you only get the best and can reap the benefits out of the same. ## Only Outreach ![](/images/posts/inline/cff40b02-onlyoutreach.png) [Only Outreach’s](https://onlyoutreach.com/) guest posting service offers a unique opportunity for clients to get links from difficult-to-reach blogs. Only Outreach’s competitive pricing, results-oriented approach, and dedication to providing value make them the perfect choice for those looking for a reliable and effective guest posting service. They perform outreach by identifying and targeting high-quality websites in your niche that would be the best match for your content. This way, you can get your name out there in front of a relevant and engaged audience, which can do wonders for your website’s traffic and search engine ranking. Only Outreach avoids the common problems with guest posting services by carefully vetting each website they target for their clients. This ensures that you’re only getting access to the highest quality websites in your niche, which can help you avoid wasting time and money on guest posting efforts that don’t produce results. If you’re looking for a reliable and effective guest posting service that can help you improve your website’s traffic and search engine ranking, Only Outreach is a perfect choice. Their unique outreach process, competitive pricing, and dedication to providing value make them the ideal partner for your guest posting needs. ## **Conclusion** Guest posting has always proved its mettle every time its worth has been put to the acid test. The process has stood the test of time and still seems to work amazingly. However, you must be careful about the way you go about the process, which is why it is advisable to rope in a reliable SEO agency for the task. They know the dynamics of the market and shall serve you only with the best of all. Did this article help you? Learn more useful guides and reviwes here: - [What is business reputational damage and how to avoid it?](https://alejandrorioja.com/causes-of-business-reputational-damage/) - [Comparing WooCommerce and Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/woocommerce-vs-shopify/) - [Top tips of effectively doing relationship marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/) Leave a comment below to let me know if you are looking for a specific guide or review. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Wix Vs WordPress: How To Choose The Best Option? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-wordpress/ Published: 2020-08-04 Updated: 2024-05-23 Tags: E-commerce, Reviews TL;DR: Wix is getting more popular in recent years, while WordPress has been out there since a while and a third of all the websites that are live today use it. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* If you are new to web building and want to make the right choice between these platforms, it can be a challenging process.  Both of these platforms have their advantages and disadvantages that might affect your website and its functioning.  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is getting more popular in recent years, while WordPress has been out there since a while and a third of all the websites that are live today use it.  Both choices are very good, however, according to your needs and preferences, one of them might fit better with your vision than the other.  To help you find out the most important information about [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and WordPress, their differences, and benefits, I decided to write a post. Hopefully, after reading this post you will have enough knowledge to know which side you lean more towards.  ## Differences between Wix and WordPress Both platforms are tools that are made for building up websites, but as I previously mentioned, they have their differences.  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is a website builder, whereas WordPress is a Content Management System (CMS). Their differences can play an important role in your decision, so here are the most important ones:  ### 1\. Website builder vs CMS  What does it mean that [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is a website builder and WordPress a CMS?  It basically means that Wix is much easier to use, but on account of that, you can’t customize it a lot.  Wix also has its own hosting so there is no need for additional web host set up. Now this means,  that you won’t be able to move your website in the future from [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/).  On the other hand, WordPress is highly customizable, but you would need to put some effort into learning all the tricks and ways of creating a good website.  WordPress is also open-source and that means that anybody can use and modify. Read next: [BlueHost Review: Your Effective Web Hosting Solution](https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/) ### 2\. Ease of use Usually, people that are looking into both of these platforms want to create websites on their own without having to hire a developer.  This means that often the people that are setting up these websites have no coding knowledge whatsoever.  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is a website builder that offers all-in-one experience suitable for people that have no idea how to build websites and are just starting now.  Its interface is very user friendly and where you just drag and drop the elements that you want your website to have, and start editing them.  You can add text, images, pages, media, etc, and do it in a very simple and easy way too. This means that everything on [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) comes pre-built it and you can just start building the website that you want with a low level of customization.  WordPress on the other hand is for sure much more powerful than [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/), but you have to have a higher level of technical knowledge to be able to find your way throughout the tool. If you want to have open hands for customization, knowing how to code is needed with WordPress.  But it’s not completely necessary since WordPress comes with a visual editor where you can write your content, and you can customize your theme and its properties.  There are navigation menus, customizer, visual post editor, and so on which means you would have to go through a learning process for a while before you can be good at building the website. [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is for simple sites or users that have no technical knowledge at all, WordPress is for complex sites that have to be customized.  ### 3\. Apps/Plugins [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) has apps, WordPress has plugins.  Both of them are third-party extensions that you can use on the platform to incorporate more features to your website.  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) has more than 200 apps that you can use to add features to your site.  If you need some specific features like adding contact forms, or galleries, comments, social media buttons, etc- you can with these apps.  These apps mostly don’t require additional payments or they have some free version. Some apps need monthly payments.  WordPress works with plugins and there are more than 55,000 free plugins that you can get in their directory.  There are more plugins that are premium available on other marketplaces. This alone lets you know how many more features you can get with WordPress.  Whatever you can probably imagine from a side of features, you can probably find in the WordPress plugins.  ### 4\. eCommerce [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) has an eCommerce feature built-in. You will need to choose one of the eCommerce plans and you’re good to go!  The eCommerce features on [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) are advanced enough, but can’t be compared to some professional eCommerce platforms.  Wix’s eCommerce feature is good for websites that want to sell some products online in addition to their physical business, but it’s not suitable for online stores. Those are beyond Wix’s eCommerce feature abilities.  With WordPress, you will have to install an eCommerce plugin if you want to sell products online.  The most-used plugin that is free is WooCommerce. Even though it’s free, there are some additional fees and costs.  There are other plugins that can be used for this purpose depending on what you need and what are your preferences.  [WooCommerce, as an eCommerce feature](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-add-easy-powerful-google-analytics-in-woocommerce/), is much more advanced in comparison to Wix’s built-in eCommerce.  However, again, it would require some technical knowledge to set up and use. Read next: [How To Set Up Your Ecommerce Business From Scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) ### 5\. Blogging  Both platforms can be used to create blogs, but they have their own differences as everything so far.  With [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) you can easily add a blogging section to the website and it will be basic.  The most common features can be added like categories, tags, photos, videos, archives, and so on.  One of the things it lacks is a native commenting system and it uses Facebook comments instead.  Additionally, no complicated features are available like backdating posts, featured images, etc.  The text editor is very plain and limited in terms of formatting and such.  On the other hand, WordPress initially started as a blogging platform specifically and grew into what it is today.  It has a lot of blogging features that are very advanced in comparison to [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/).  Sky’s the limit- you can create unique and beautiful layouts making your blog look very high-quality. Additionally, you can use plugins to add even more features. Literally almost any feature that you can imagine, can be added on WordPress.  ### 6\. Pricing The pricing might be hard to compare since their whole plans are created in a different way. [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) has two types of plans to offer for a website, and for business and eCommerce.  The prices for websites are divided into four different plans: VIP, Unlimited, Combo, and Connect Domain.  ![wordpress and wix pricing](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/dAZfAdDfagAo8B8gcKol8Gg8ZS1mZ2vz_Pqx2dE56ouhUcnM4DLYMl5YRjbyB_aA2k-E3eTFAAx8UNDHN9Iike1vwmZamudhvdLSlLYJNkoC3sclO9wqoOqygTdj8IEN0RvnXyqM) The differences between them are in the functionalities where the most basic option for €4.50 per month allows you to connect your domain, and gives you 1GB bandwidth and 500MB storage.  On the other side of the spectrum is the VIP: First Priority Support package that costs €24.50 per month.  For this price, you get: 1. Unlimited bandwidth 2. 20GB Storage 3. Connect Your Domain 4. Remove [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) Ads 5. Free Domain for 1 Year 6. 2 Video Hours 7. $75 Ad Vouchers 8. Site Booster App – $60 Value 9. Visitor Analytics App – $60 Value 10. Professional Logo – $50 Value 11. Social Media Logo files 12. Priority Response 13. VIP Support The business and eCommerce plans offer even more for websites. ![wix pricing plan](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/1v6Nq28t1etFOsKRcnADxPhNWSqrtZumV-BOIg485nCodwPyf_Pbhwo-fBTkOFcWgBoXlRpyZbWgOz4HnU05troFnetwnPHm0rNolWTFzsBnFFUSu_gHRBwsYg2sCPkUk79K-Uz3) The way Wix’s pricing works is that they include everything in their packages like themes, apps, customer support, hosting, [eCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/), etc.  WordPress, on the other hand, has a different type of pricing starting with offering the core for free.  ![wix](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/DzWFPXSHaAoy10VMKiZQ8_cYSdOgr5bncRawcFqw0Xj81p40KhAHBGIpG42TElR2oU8J_YriDtHMiExQO80NRF34rB32uHvmaqeEIzLaSbfWo_KXmjPtYjqQZyHXvwxIIDdIBqg5) Additionally, there are four other plans: personal, premium, business, and eCommerce. For any themes or plugins, and hosting you will probably need to pay additionally. As I mentioned previously, you can find some themes and plugins for free too. If you need an eCommerce in addition to your website, you will have to pay an eCommerce plugin extension like WooCommerce which can range between $0 to $299.  On the WordPress page, you can compare all the plans and see what you need and which plan will provide that for you.  ![Wix vs. wordpress](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZgdTncP4r--U3DDb42eaC1BKqAXcNYCJJwlOJkZY4c-JPcfGAZQ2_VQjGAEEFcwBOs98p2FDG19ta8b3idr81RD5vdIZW_yoehK3X5DHlMUF-n_NZQws7NAZDupkctlKCojTmCaE) This way, you can choose the right type of plan for your business.  Read next: [Wix Vs. Squarespace: What’s The Best Website Builder In The Market?](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) ### 7\. Customer support  This is another thing that both platforms approach differently. [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) includes customer support via chat or email customer support in every one of their packages.  In some of the most expensive plans, you can even get VIP support that has some privileges like an immediate response, etc.  WordPress is open source and the core of it is free, so customer support is not offered.  However, you can get customer support by getting some themes or plugins that are paid.  The creators of those themes and plugins include customer support in the cost to sweeten the deal, even though this support is only in reference to the specific plugin or theme.  ## Wix vs WordPress: Pros and cons By now you know the main differences between [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and WordPress, so a nice way of summarizing everything you learned so far is by clearly presenting the pros and cons of Wix and WordPress separately.  ### Wix pros 1. Easy, drag and drop user-friendly interface 2. Easy to use 3. Several pricing plans for different needs 4. Free templates 5. Fast building of the website 6. Optimized for mobile devices 7. Adapted to various browsers 8. Customer support included 9. All-in-one platform 10. No technical knowledge needed 11. Custom sub-domain for free 12. Built-in eCommerce feature ### Wix cons 1. More complex websites might not find the needed features 2. It’s not customizable a lot  3. If you want to change the provider in the future, you can’t export the data 4. The pages have slower loading times 5. The unpaid version has ads on your website 6. Templates can’t be changed once they are created 7. Limited apps available 8. More complex design elements might not be possible or very difficult to add outside of the chosen template ### WordPress pros 1. Broad functionalities and complex features 2. Great themes, templates, and plugins  3. Native blogging features 4. A lot of build-in features 5. Incredible extension capabilities 6. You can move the website to different providers in the future 7. Very customizable with templates or designs 8. Free download of basic CMS 9. No ads on your website 10. Simple to set up for the basics 11. Updates for fixing bugs 12. Quick page loading times usually 13. An enormous community offering tutorial videos, online resources, help in every way 14. Developers creating and updating plugins and templates constantly 15. Optimized for mobile devices ### WordPress cons 1. No free hosting option 2. No customer support 3. Learning curve can be rough 4. If you want eCommerce you have to install a plugin 5. You might need a developer for customization or other issues 6. Needs regular updates 7. Can be difficult to navigate if you haven’t worked with CMS systems in the past 8. You are the one that needs to install themes, CMS, plugins 9. Needs security solutions to prevent hacking attacks ## Wrapping up! Both of these platforms are good options.  The only thing that some people might not understand is that they are in different lanes.  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is for websites that aspire to be simple, straight-forward, and does not have a lot of customization or features to be added.  For that, Wix is simple, easy to use, and includes all-in-one features.  But if you have needs that require a complex website with plenty of features and customizations, then WordPress is the right platform.  With that comes complexity in usage, setting up, and keeping up the website.  You have to also look at the limitations of them both.  For example, if you need a simple plain website, but you are planning to change providers in the future, Wix is the wrong option because even though it’s perfect for your need right now, in the future you won’t be able to change providers.  That is why getting properly informed before making a decision is extremely crucial here.  Found this post helpful? Look at other related posts connected to website building and maintaining: - [Great WordPress features](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/)  - [Wix or Shopify? Which one should you choose](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/)  - [Wix or Squarespace – the better website builder](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/)  Are you struggling to create a new website? Leave a comment letting me know what subject to cover next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Youtube Thumbnail Size & Guidelines: How to Make Yours POP! ? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-thumbnail-size/ Published: 2020-07-31 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Often overlooked, these YouTube thumbnails are as essential as your video’s title and content. Remember that these tiny still images are what viewers initially see when they search a video on YouTube. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. You have created the greatest video and thought of the best title (and optimized it further for [Youtube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/)), yet your video still isn’t getting the views it deserves? Well, your thumbnail may be the culprit. Often overlooked, these YouTube thumbnails are as essential as your video’s title and content. ![](/images/posts/inline/9bd15456-example-of-a-great-thumbnail.png) Remember that these tiny still images are what viewers initially see when they search a video on YouTube. A thumbnail will act as a teaser or a movie poster. It mirrors what generally your video’s content is and should lure your viewers to click-through. It can be their deciding factor whether to click and watch your video or otherwise, scroll ahead. Thumbnails also appear on Google’s search engines and play an important role in maximizing your impressions. Sometimes, the right thumbnail is enough to make a big difference. Below, we’ll guide you through everything you need to learn about YouTube thumbnails, from choosing the ideal size, how to make them and other tips that will help you make a compelling image and raise your video’s click-through rate. Read on and give it a share! ## Main Purpose of a Thumbnail The main goal of a Thumbnail is to get clicks to it! It should attract not only your current followers, but your future ones (the ones that have yet to discover you and your content) Regardless of the type of your content you post, whether to entertain or inform viewers, your thumbnail should magnet all those clicks for you or optimize your impressions. ## The Perfect YouTube Thumbnail Size Before we get to more fun stuff, let’s go to the basic first and determine the right **Youtube thumbnail size**. *As per Google’s recommendations, your thumbnail should be at 1280 pixels by 720 pixels, with 640 pixels as the minimum width. It is also best to keep its size at 16:9 aspect ratio as it’s used in YouTube players and previews.* You may be surprised why the recommended size is that big. Well, while thumbnails may look small when appearing in searches, it usually expands to the same size of a full video when it shows as an “up next” suggestion near the end of a video. It’s best to use a large-sized image as it will still maintain its quality when it scales up.   You’ll never want your thumbnail to look pixelated in previews. Also, take note that the image you upload must not exceed 2MB and the image file types should be any of the following: .JPG, .GIF, .BMP, or .PNG. (Should you have problems with the file size or format, online converter tools may become handy.) ## Youtube Thumbnail Size Guidelines ✍️ Here’s a list of what you need to remember: - 1280 × 720 resolution (with a minimum width of 640 pixels) - JPG, GIF, BMP, or PNG image formats - Under 2MB - 16:9 aspect ratio ## Creating the perfect YouTube Thumbnail Ideally, it is best to create compelling thumbnails using Adobe Photoshop. If you don’t have such skills yet, don’t worry as there are lots of online graphics tools that can help you get the job done. On top of the list is [FotoJet](https://www.fotojet.com/). What makes this online graphics tool special is that it doesn’t require users to sign up for a free account to be able to create a thumbnail. You can choose from plenty of templates that will help you customize your thumbnail and download it for free. To start creating your YouTube thumbnail on Fotojet, follow the steps below: 1. Go to [https://www.fotojet.com/template/youtube-thumbnail/](https://www.fotojet.com/template/youtube-thumbnail/) 2. An array of templates will be displayed. Make sure to pick one that will suit your video’s subject or content. 3. Once you have chosen a thumbnail template, you will be directed to the FotoJet editor. The image size is automatically set based on YouTube’s recommendations. 4. Now, you can navigate on the menu on the left side. Click on ‘Text’ to edit thumbnail text. You will have the privilege to choose from different text styles. Just click any of the sample text, and you may start editing. 5. Once done, select ‘Add Photo’ to upload your desired background photo. Should you decide to use a plain background instead, you may pick from different gradients or patterns on the “BKGround” tab on the left menu. 6. See to it to play with different styles and designs the site offers and customize your YouTube thumbnail freely. If you want to explore other features, there are other online graphics tools you can use in making your YouTube thumbnails: #### [Snappa](https://snappa.com/) Snappa has a wide range of professionally designed and ready-made templates you can choose from. The tool also has a drag and drop functionality that will help you use their customizable texts, graphics, and shapes more conveniently. #### [Visme](https://www.visme.co/thumbnail-maker/) Make thumbnails in minutes! This Easy-to-customize thumbnail maker lets you choose from a variety of templates, graphics, fonts, and photos to create your perfect thumbnail. #### [Picmaker](https://www.picmaker.com/) You can think of plenty of ways to make your thumbnails as this online graphics tool offers various stickers, borders, text, icons, backgrounds, and filters from their vast collection. #### [Fotor](https://www.fotor.com/) Their theme-based templates can be a huge help in finding the one that would best suit your video’s subject matter. ## How to Upload a YouTube Thumbnail (Steps) If you don’t upload a thumbnail, YouTube will automatically select one for you by choosing a random screenshot of your video. That seems like a bad idea as you’ll never which screenshots will be taken and it may, unfortunately, be your wackiest shot on the video. (it’s always the wackiest one) And, since we’ve already discussed the importance of choosing the right thumbnails and how to create them, it’s better to upload your customized thumbnail instead on just a few simple clicks! First, go to the video setting of the video you want to change the thumbnail. You will notice a section called **‘VIDEO THUMBNAILS’** at the bottom of the settings screen. You will see the **‘Custom thumbnail’** button. Click it and choose the file you want to upload. Make sure to follow the thumbnail size, format and file size Google suggests to avoid any issues. Once it is uploaded, it will appear in the ‘VIDEO THUMBNAILS’ section. Set it as your video’s featured thumbnail by clicking on the image. You can your change your video’s featured thumbnail anytime you want to regardless of the time it was uploaded. Related: if you need to download a YT thumbnail, you can use this [youtube thumbnail download](https://www.istaunch.com/youtube-thumbnail-downloader/) tool. ## Creating the Best YouTube thumbnail Done with the technicalities, let’s now unleash your creativity. Here are tips on how to make your Youtube thumbnail a compelling one: ### Take Static Images To get the highest quality for your thumbnail, take an actual photograph instead of getting a screenshot from the video. A video is always in motion and using it as a still image doesn’t just fit. ![](/images/posts/inline/030881ca-ale-1.png) ***See xoJahtna using a still image for her thumbnail.*** ### Thumbnail must mirror your content You have been a victim of clickbaits for sure. The photo shows a new mysterious bird found in a specific place only to find out that it’s a normal peacock after watching the video. While this may result in giving you huge number of views at the moment, it will not benefit you in the long run. People will learn your dirty tactics and will refrain from clicking your videos in the future. People might even report your content as spammy. This will kill your opportunity to earn more subscribers. Have your thumbnail accurately reflect what generally would they see in your video. ### Use close-ups and vivid emotions You probably see these on most YouTube videos. ***Creators are including zoomed in images of their faces on their thumbnails.*** This is effective in a way that it establishes an eye contact which humans have evolved to detect even virtually. It draws in the attention of the viewer’s as we normally love making connections. To spice it up, it is also essential to show strong emotions. Humans get triggered by emotional cues, and they can sense heightened emotion. Someone laughing or showing disgust, for instance, will most likely catch attention than a person displaying a poker face. ![](/images/posts/inline/16c663c7-ale-2.png) ***Nate Garner blends close-ups and emotions in his thumbnails well.*** ### Aim for bright backgrounds Having bright backgrounds is preferable as it goes well with YouTube’s white backdrop. Bright colors catch the viewer’s eye, so use this to your advantage. ![](/images/posts/inline/775df8c3-ale-3-..png) ***5-Minute Crafts, a channel using striking colors for their backgrounds.*** ### Use Contrasting Colors Playing with the right colors can do magic for your thumbnails even if they are on the contrasting sides. The contrast in outlines,  graphics and text catches the eye and can make the subject of the video stand out against the background. If your text, graphic, or photo is bright, place it on top of a dark background or vice-versa. You can use charts of contrasting foreground and background colors to help you make the right color decisions. This will make your thumbnail pop. With lots of other videos lining up next to yours, it is always good to catch immediate attention. ### Text Usage If you are posting a music video, don’t add any text. If you are posting a gaming stream or a product review, add a sentence such as “iPhone 8 unboxing”. For other entertainment, you can add a text box. The general rule of thumb is to see what others are doing and copy that. If you have to use text, first, make sure that it is readable. Keep in mind that thumbnails tend to scale down when appearing on searches and that screen sizes also vary. Browsing YouTube on a smartphone can make your thumbnail just about the size of a postage stamp. Second, be concise. Three to four words at maximum on your thumbnail is the limit. Never repeat the title on the thumbnail or describe your video’s content. You can give them some gist to grab their interest or awaken their curiosity. Lastly, you may also write something that inspires viewers to click. You can use striking words that immediately creates an impact on the viewers’ minds. ### Embed Logo or Branding Using a consistent logo or watermark in your thumbnails can be essential in raking up views. What it does is that it provides familiarity to your audience. It also helps you differentiate yourself from other competitors or creators. When you establish your branding, viewer’s will be able to identify your videos quickly and will be most like to watch. Check out Vice channel’s logo on the bottom-left corner of the thumbnail. ![](/images/posts/inline/23481cbc-ale-4.png) ### Placement of Designs Be sure to avoid the lower right corner. In its place is a black box displaying the videos’ lengths in each thumbnail. Also, it’s the bottom right-hand corner doesn’t get too much attention. Most people read or looks from left to right, top to bottom making it the last part to get noticed. The bottom-left corner of your thumbnail is a good area to place your logo or any design. ### Consistency Another way of helping viewers identify your videos is by having consistency in the design of your thumbnails. This means that you have to be uniform in your design which includes layout, the arrangement of elements and color choices. You may also place your logo in the same spot, use the same font styles or the same techniques in your thumbnails. ![](/images/posts/inline/58346558-ale-5.png) ***Same layout, color scheme, and fonts – Beth Roars channel exemplifying consistency.*** ### Use Sense of Motion Should you subject matter permits, you can also use the “sense of motion” for your thumbnails. Action shots become effective as it thrills the viewers to know to watch what’s coming ahead on the video. ![](/images/posts/inline/57be2f33-ale-6.png) ***Experiment channels such as PressTube commonly applies this to their thumbnails.*** Make Sure to Follow YouTube Community Guidelines As with all other platforms, YouTube has its community guidelines that you must abide. This rules applies to your videos, title, content and even your thumbnails. Nothing too complicated, though. Just make sure that your thumbnails are family-friendly, no nudity or violence – you’ll be okay. Be mindful that if you are breaking YouTube’s guidelines consistently, you can lose the ability to upload custom thumbnails. ## Thumbnail Techniques or Styles You May Use - Collage Effect This technique is done by cutting out the subjects from a photo and placing them over a background to make them stand out or emphasize their importance. ![](/images/posts/inline/a2be68c5-screenshot_1-1.png) - Split Screen This style is commonly used “before-and-after”. The thumbnails show the initial state of the subject on the left side and display the results stage on the right side. This technique entices the viewer especially when there are drastic changes. A user usually gets interested in how the transformation was made and will most likely watch. ![](/images/posts/inline/3717dac8-screenshot_2.png) The split screen is also used to review videos. One half of the screen shows the subject being evaluated, be it a movie/product/dance cover while on the other half is the person doing the analysis. ![](/images/posts/inline/520d4b55-screenshot_3.png) ## Do Split Test When you start to do your custom thumbnails, do not settle for a single-style or template as of yet and make sure to experiment – the split test. This means that you have to create different approaches on different thumbnails to see what gets the highest views and what would work well for your impressions. You can run a particular template for a week or a month depending on your preference and measure its click returns. Do this using other templates and compare the results. Once you get what works best, you can now apply it to all your videos and create your brand. ## PewDiePie’s Success and His Thumbnails PewDiePie is the most subscribed individual on YouTube with over 89 million subscribers as of March 2019 statistics. Well, aside from the other cards on his deck, the way he does his thumbnails can be attributed to this success. You can see that this digital superstar knows how to use thumbnails in his advantage. Known as Felix Arvid Ulf Kjellberg in real life, this “Let’s Play Youtube’ uses very minimal text in his thumbnails. In the photo below, he only used a single word for both videos enough to tickle the viewer’s curiosity and let them wonder what he ‘regrets’ or where he has been ‘banned.’ See how he somehow creates a tension that makes people want to know the answer. ![](/images/posts/inline/2ca4fc04-pewdiepie.png) PewDiePie’s is also known to use strong emotions in his thumbnails, to connect to his audience. The added emotion on these thumbnails makes viewer’s want to know what caused the emotion in the video. ![](/images/posts/inline/7be440dc-pewdipie-2.png) Here you can see PewDiePie’s consistency in terms of the overall design of this thumbnails. The chosen colors are very laid-back, and there is constant use of the collage style and close-ups. ![](/images/posts/inline/98268af6-pewdie-3.png) **L**astly, PewDiePie’s made sure to make his thumbnails fun andeciting. The novelty he used is unique and catchy enough to get eyes to move to his direction – a brand he created on this thumbnails. ![](/images/posts/inline/839ee483-pewdie-pie-4-1024x322.png) ## Bottom line We know you’ve devoted much effort to create videos, but you should not forget the importance of having a **great thumbnail image**. It serves as an introduction to your content, and if people find interesting, you’ll entice more viewers. It may take extra time to create one, but it’s time well spent. Make your thumbnail with the tips and tricks given in this post and make sure to use the optimizations and mind hacks to your advantage. By creating and utilizing the right custom thumbnail images, your views will most likely skyrocket, along with getting more subscribers and creating your own brand as a whole! **Drop a link to your YT channel below so I check it out!** If you enjoy this post, now read: - [How to blow up on Youtube with Youtube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) - [How to go viral on Facebook](https://futuresharks.com/go-viral-facebook-goubtube/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Download Instagram Photos and Videos Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-instagram-photos-and-videos/ Published: 2020-07-29 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Note: If you are unsure of Instagram’s copyright terms, please read them before you attempt to download any pictures whether from your account or someone else’s. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Note: If you are unsure of Instagram’s copyright terms, please* [*read them*](https://help.instagram.com/126382350847838) *before you attempt to download any pictures whether from your account or someone else’s.*  Many people would like to download or save pictures from Instagram. Maybe you posted a pic on Instagram and lost the original, and want to save that picture. In this post, you will learn [how to download any IG photo or video](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/by-click-downloader/) and save it to your computer, iPhone, iPad, Windows or Android. Here are 5 different ways to download images/videos from Instagram: 1. Use software like GramSave 2. Inspect the code of the website and find the image or video link to download it 3. Screenshot the image 4. If you just want to save the post for later viewing, you can bookmark it 5. If you want all your pics (and videos, stories), download your entire archive directly from Instagram Let’s dive in: ## 1\. Use these sites to download images or videos from Instagram To download an image or video using a third-party software, you first need to grab the url of the post.  To do that, head to the post you are looking to download.  On the mobile app: ![](/images/posts/inline/e8cfc82a-download-instagram-photos-1.png) 1. Go to the post and tap on the 3 dots at the top right 2. Then tap copy link On browser ![](/images/posts/inline/9d4d1931-download-instagram-pictures-1024x612.png) 1. Go to the post  2. Copy the link that appears on the browser bar Once you have the link, paste it on any of the following sites: Here are the best sites to retrieve images from IG: - [ByClick Downloader](https://www.byclickdownloader.com/?source=alejandrorioja&innerpage=article-how-to-download-facebook-videos) - iStaunch – [Instagram Photo Downloader](https://www.istaunch.com/instagram-photo-downloader/) - [GramSave](https://gramsave.com/) - [Dinsta](https://www.dinsta.com/) - ~DownloadGram (not linking to them since they send you through multiple ad links)~ - Did I miss your tool? [Message me](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) so I can review it and add it.  ## 2\. Use a bit of technical knowledge  Feeling a bit technically savvy? Great, here’s how you can download your image(s). (Following instructions are for Google Chrome but should be very similar on other browsers) ![](/images/posts/inline/0bdb1661-download-images-from-instagram-inspect-element-1024x482.png) 1. Go to the post you are looking to download  2. Inspect element (you can right click on the page and then select *Inspect* or hit Cmd+Option+J) 3. Go to the Elements tab on the Console 4. Search for “jpg”, or “og:image” or locate the “KL4Bh” div class  5. Copy the link under srcset, make sure you grab the entire link that should look like this - *https://www.instagram.com/accounts/privacy\_and\_security/;* 6. Paste the link in a new tab and hit enter 7. Right click on the image and hit “Save Image as…” 8. Done! Curious about my Forbes magazine feature? [Read more about me on the press](https://alejandrorioja.com/press) and also learn [how to get more press for yourself](https://alejandrorioja.com/pr-marketing/). ## 3\. Feeling lazy? Just screenshot the image Sometimes you just want to save a screenshot to send a meme to a friend. Here’s how to take a screenshot with your device of your choosing. On Laptop (i.e. Google Chrome): 1. Go to the post  2. Hit Shift+Cmd+4 to trigger the screenshot tool 3. Use the tool to grab the entire image area and release  4. The image should download on your Downloads folder On iPhone, iPad 1. Go to the post 2. Screenshot it. (if you need further instructions, [here they are](https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT200289) depending on your device) On Android 1. Go to the post 2. Screenshot it ([instructions for android](https://support.google.com/android/answer/9075928?hl=en)) You can then crop the screenshot if you like.  ## 4\. Don’t need to download them? Just bookmark them for later viewing If you don’t want to use up your phone space, you can also bookmark your favorite posts so you can access them later.  Here are the steps: 1. Go to the post 2. Tap the bookmark icon on the bottom right of the post  3. Your photo is now saved 4. You can additionally tap on “Save to Collection” to further organize your bookmarks To access your bookmarks in the future: 1. Go to your profile 2. Tap on the top right (3 horizontal bars) 3. Tap on Saved 4. From there you can further organize your bookmarks into collections ## 5\. Need to save all your images? Download an archive from Instagram Did you know that you can download all your Instagram profile info (posts, bio, comments, etc) directly from Instagram? Here how you can do that. On Browser: 1. **Go to your profile** on the browser version of instagram  2. **Click the gear icon** next to Edit Profile (i.e. Settings) 3. Click on **Privacy and Security** or [just follow this link](https://www.instagram.com/accounts/privacy_and_security/)  4. On that page, under Data Download, hit **request download** 5. Fill your email and password and Instagram will email you your data archive once it’s ready On the app: 1. Go to your profile 2. Tap on the top right (3 horizontal bars) 3. Tap on **Settings** 4. Tap on **Security** 5. Tap on **Download Data** 6. Fill your email and password and Instagram will email you your data archive once it’s ready On either process, within 48 hours, Instagram will email you a link to a file with your photos, comments, profile information and more. (Likely it won’t take longer than 1-2 hours) You can then use that link to download all your info and save all the posts you care about.  ## Bottom line Those are some of the best ways to download images from Instagram. If you know of any others, please tell us in the comments! *Remember that you should respect the original author’s privacy and copyrights, as well as follow Instagram’s terms of service.*  Also, let me know if you run into any issues while following any of the steps, I intend to keep this post updated.  Other posts you should read: - [How to get the blue checkmark on Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) (and [Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/)) - A step by step tutorial to [download videos from Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Causes Of Business Reputational Damage & How To Protect Your Brand? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/causes-of-business-reputational-damage/ Published: 2020-07-27 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. When you become a business owner, there are mounds of risks that can negatively impact your business but reputational damage is a risk that’s pretty high up on that list. There are incidents that happen which can do significant damage to your business, and oftentimes, it can cost you a great deal financially. As a business owner, it must pose questions if reputational damage is something that’s too often ignored by businesses and is financial gain the overall goal of customers when businesses fail to acknowledge their mistakes? Reputational damage can be caused by a number of different things but [according to thebci.org](https://www.thebci.org/news/what-are-the-effects-of-reputational-damage.html), the key driver of success in a business surviving reputational damage is how that business responds to the situation. How a business responds determines how the public will be willing to forgive that brand for their wrong-doing. ## How does Reputational Damage harm your brand? ### **Customer Loss** When customers feel that they’ve been lied to by a company or feel that a company didn’t handle a situation appropriately, they will more than likely take their business to competitors. Even worse, those customers will take to social media and let the world know about that business’ shortcomings. ### **Financial Compensation** When customers suffer injury or loss due to your products or services, they will indeed want to take legal action against your business. That reason alone is why it so important for businesses to have [business insurance](https://theinsurancenerd.com/lemonade-insurance/). The type of business you have will determine the type of [custom policy](https://www.simplybusiness.com/business-insurance/errors-and-omissions/) you need to cover the type of threats your business will face. ## Common Causes of Reputational Damage ![](/images/posts/inline/804bb208-customer-experience-concept-client-woman-with-question-mark_34048-373.jpg) ### Social Media Social media is a great [marketing tool for your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) but it can also pose a significant amount of harm if an unsatisfied company or customer drags your name through the mud. This in turn will cause that negative feedback to reach global proportions. ### Data Loss Data loss is one of the quickest ways for your customers to lose trust in your brand and severely damage your reputation. When customers shop with your brand, they’re giving you their sensitive information and they’re trusting that you will do everything in your power to keep that information safe. Compromising that information will indeed lose their trust in your brand, and it’s actually one of the hardest areas to gain the trust back of your customers. ### Employees Employees are “employees” at work who have their own social and personal life and activities, nonetheless, your employees are still a huge representation of your brand, even outside of work. If an employee were to hop on social media and make an offensive slur towards a specific demographic of people, it would be your brand having to respond to it, as though the brand made the offensive slur. [Upon hiring employees](https://alejandrorioja.com/freeeup-review/), it’s very important to ensure they embody the brand’s mission and values. You want to have a thorough interview process to ensure this. ### Service Customer demands are constantly changing and they are getting more aware about the industries, products and services- thanks to an easy and widespread accessibility of data. Ultimately, customers want what they pay for, and regardless of the cost, they want top-notch service. Anything less than that and they will do everything in their power to destroy a business’ reputation because of it, especially if the business doesn’t accommodate them ### Prices Customers may also tarnish your name if they feel your products are too overpriced. You want to always utilize fair sales techniques because once your customers get the wind of any shady business, their perception can turn against you. ## How to Protect Your Brand From Reputational Damage? ![](/images/posts/inline/5a13556b-customer-experiences-concept-group-happy-people-raised-up-hand-giving-positive-review-speech-bubble-card-client-s-satisfaction-surveys_34048-1086.jpg) Protecting your brand from reputational damage can be done in several different ways. You can always [boost your engagement on social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) and address the issue. But ideally, preventing reputation damage from happening in the first place is ideal. Of course, you’re not going to be able to please every customer but taking the necessary steps to ensure they’re satisfied is the goal. Everything from delivering on the promises you make to responding quickly to complaints will take your business a very long way in building a strong reputation. When the damage has already been done and your business has to face the public, this is your moment to be completely honest and transparent. Being completely honest to the public and your customers is the first step in rebuilding their trust in your brand back up. This is going to also build their respect and confidence in your brand. There’s nothing more worthy of forgiveness when a business is willing to admit when they were wrong, and can apologize for it. ## Wrapping up! Your business will also need to have plans in place moving forward from the reputational damage. All staff will need to be trained on how to appropriately handle the negative attention from the media. And the company may need to re-evaluate the company’s best practices or do a complete overhaul on it and replace it with something new. The bottom line is that reputational damage can come from anywhere. The way you respond to it and how you move forward in running your business will determine how your business will recover from it all. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## List of Top Guest Post Sites Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/guest-post-sites/ Published: 2020-07-25 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Building backlinks is key to rank high on Google. However, I know that getting backlinks is hard, so I decided to make it easy for you. **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Building backlinks is [key to rank high on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). However, I know that getting backlinks is hard, so I decided to make it easy for you. The following sites are sites I own and that are accepting amazing guest posts. I’ll accept your post as long as its within the same niche, and provides awesome value to the readers. ## Sites and Topics 1. SEO, Digital Marketing, Growth - [alejandrorioja.com](https://alejandrorioja.com/)  - [flux.la](http://flux.la/) 2. Interviews, social media influencers, startups, entrepreneurship) – These sites allow **self-publishing**! - [futuresharks.com](http://futuresharks.com/) publish here -> [FutureSharks.com/subscription](http://FutureSharks.com/subscription)   - [soinfluential.com](http://soinfluential.com/) publish here -> [SoInfluential.com/subscription](http://SoInfluential.com/subscription) - [authoritydaily.com](http://authoritydaily.com/) publish here -> [AuthorityDaily.com/subscription](http://AuthorityDaily.com/subscription) - [remarkablemag.com](http://remarkablemag.com/) publish here -> [RemarkableMag.com/subscription](http://RemarkableMag.com/subscription) - [totalgirlboss.com](http://totalgirlboss.com/) publish here -> [TotalGirlBoss.com/subscription](http://TotalGirlBoss.com/subscription) - [absoluteballer.com](http://absoluteballer.com) publish here -> [AbsoluteBaller.com/subscription](http://AbsoluteBaller.com/subscription) 3. Finance - [theinsurancenerd.com](http://theinsurancenerd.com/) (insurance, health care, medicine) - [cryptotim.es](http://cryptotim.es/) (blockchain, cryptocurrencies, ICOs) publish here -> [CryptoTim.es/subscription](http://CryptoTim.es/subscription) 4. Other - [youngslacker.com](http://youngslacker.com) (snapchat, social media, rap) - [mentioned.at](http://mentioned.at) (gossip, funny) There’s no need to “pitch” to guest post, the opportunity is open. You just need to send a high quality article that follows the guidelines. ## Guest Posting Guidelines (required) - Send it as a Google Doc - Write a unique article that’s not published elsewhere - At least 1000\+ words - Max 1 link to an article on your site, not a homepage - The article you write must be in line with the topics I listed above - Include at least 5 links to articles written by me - Super valuable and actionable content - Attach pictures and screenshots of the steps/tools you mention on the post Here’s a [great example that meets all the guidelines.](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/) Once you have your draft ready, please submit it here: Your Name\* Your Email\* Your Google Doc link with your post and images\* The site you want this post on\* AlejandroRioja.com (SEO, marketing)Flux.la (SEO, marketing)FutureSharks.com (business, interviews)SoInfluential.com (business, interviews)AuthorityDaily.com (business, interviews)RemarkableMag.com (business, interviews)TotalGirlBoss.com (business, interviews)AbsoluteBaller.com
 (business, interviews)theinsurancenerd.com (insurance, finance)CryptoTim.es (blockchain, cryptocurrencies, ICOs)YoungSlacker.com (snapchat, rap)Mentioned.at (gossip, funny) Solve this math quiz to prove you are an advanced AI like GPT-3 3+4 If you follow all the guidelines and the post is a fit, I will reply to you within a few hours. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top 3 Tips To Efficiently Invest Your Profits For Future Growth Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-invest-your-profits-for-future-growth/ Published: 2020-07-22 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. The notion of boosting profits and committing this capital towards future growth may seem fanciful in the wake of the lockdown and Covid-19 pandemic, with [firms still operating at about half of their previous capacity](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-53493471) on average according to the British Chambers of Commerce. But, we’ve seen some markets boom during the first half of 2020, with e-commerce brands, delivery companies, and medical device suppliers having reported huge gains as customer behaviors have changed significantly. For these companies, investing profits efficiently may well enable them to steal a march on their competitors, but how can this best be achieved? Here are some ideas to keep in mind. But first, you would like to check this video on some basic tips for beginners. ## **1\. Invest in Marketing and SEO** ![](/images/posts/inline/6300277c-teamwork-brainstorming-meeting-new-startup-project-workplace_2034-1617.jpg) If your primary motivation is to [grow your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) and compete more aggressively with your rivals, then investing profits in marketing and SEO represents an excellent starting point. The reason for this is simple; as this enables you to launch integrated campaigns that simultaneously build brand awareness, target new audiences, and optimize your online visibility in relation to relevant keywords. The key here is how you choose to deploy your marketing budgets and hard-earned profits, as while digital channels remain dominant, you’ll also need to factor in alternative media that can help to drive [assisted conversions throughout the customer journey](https://sagittarius.agency/blog/what-is-an-assisted-conversion). These refer to the individual transactions that impact on the conversion of customers, and each has a particular value that may justify a particular investment. ## **2\. Consider Forex Currency Trading** ![](/images/posts/inline/7def9de5-asian-business-male-using-finger-touching-sell-button-digital-virtual-screen-with-candlestick-graph-financial-investment-concept_34344-184.jpg) If your primary goal is to make your profits work for you and generate as much future capital as possible, then you should consider investing in the financial markets. Forex trading is a particularly viable option, as this can create passive income streams that are margin-based and capable of using leverage to achieve inflated and disproportionately high returns. More specifically, you can use your margin to open up positions that are far larger than the size of your initial deposit, so there’s ample opportunity to make huge gains within a relatively short space of time. Still, [the forex market is inherently volatile](https://www.tickmill.com/), and while you don’t have to assume the burden of ownership when trading currencies, you will have to take time to study the marketplace and hone your skills using a so-called ‘demo account’. ## **3\. Invest in Your Workforce** ![](/images/posts/inline/897aeb62-business-executive-stacking-wooden-dices-with-people-icons-them-pyramid-shape_254268-41.jpg) Ultimately, you may want to deploy your profits to [improve productivity](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tools/) and reduce future operational costs, and in this respect, you should consider investing in the workforce. By investing in your workforce and helping them to develop their individual skill sets over time, you can certainly drive increased rates of retention and negate the need to recruit new employees over time. Remember, it’s far more expensive to hire new employees than it is to retain existing workers, so this type of investment can definitely pay subtle dividends. A productive and highly-skilled employee also offers far greater value to your firm, and it may make it easier to scale your venture organically in the future. ## Summing Up! If you are new to investing, these are the top essential tips for a smart investment. The key is to have a clear goal and direction to leverage your existing profits into future business growth. However, to have the best possible chance of succeeding, it’s always good to learn about investment strategies and their practical application. So if you would like to have this subject covered in detail on this blog, let me know in the comments below. You would also like to check other useful guides on business and productivity. 1. [Shopify vs. Wix: Which one should you choose for your online business](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/) 2. [Understanding the product development process](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-product-development-process/) 3. [Tips on becoming an entrepreneur](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-an-entrepreneur/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Is Product Development Process And How To Do It Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-product-development-process/ Published: 2020-07-22 Updated: 2024-05-22 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. The only thing that’s constant is change.  And we all know that to be true, even people in businesses that offer a wide range of products.  Everything has its own beginning and end. This can be applied as well to products.  > No matter how successful a product you have, at some point, the lifecycle of your product will inevitably end and you will need to either improve the product or develop a new product for your customers.  New technologies, new materials, new ingredients, and new practices come into the business game all the time.  Having a single, unchanged product for prolonged periods of time can’t possibly be profitable in times when everything changes by the minute. To be able to understand this better, I will first explain the lifecycle of a product and then get into what is product development, and what is the process of developing a product.  ## Stages of the product life cycle  ![](/images/posts/inline/2763964e-marketing-concept-product-life-cycle-chart-chalkboard_54006-77.jpg) As I previously said, each product has its own lifecycle that has its own beginning and end.[](https://www.thestreet.com/markets/commodities/product-life-cycle-14882534) In economics, there are four stages of a product life cycle: 1. Introduction 2. Growth 3. Maturity 4. Decline  ### 1\. Introduction  The introduction of a product is the first stage that comes after the product development process and in this stage, the product is being put on the market- introduced.  The introduction stage is often the most important stage in the whole lifecycle of the product because in this stage the stakes are high and customers get in touch with the product for the first time.  Marketing and promotional activities are top investments in this stage, and feedback is appreciated.  The companies get a sense of how the customers respond to the new product, make predictions, etc.  The goal of this stage is to build a demand for the product and later profit off of its success.  Relevant: [All that you need to know about becoming an entrepreneur](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-an-entrepreneur/) ### 2\. Growth When the product reaches the growth stage, it means that the customers are already familiar with the product, and their consumption increases.  Basically, the product gains popularity among the customers. The [sales are increasing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-cpa-marketing/) and the competitors are noticing. If there is a big competition for the product, the marketing and promotional activities might also exist in this stage of the life cycle of the product. In this stage, the product can be tweaked or slightly improved to fit the needs of the customers more.  In the growth stage, sales volumes and revenues are increasing. The goal at this stage is to keep increasing the market share of the product. ### 3\. Maturity  The third stage of the product’s life cycle is maturity. Once maturity is reached, the sales slow down or in some cases even stop altogether.  The reason for this is that the market is saturated.  When the product is mature, the prices start to drop and there is a huge competition which in the end results with lowered demand for the product.  Some [marketing and promotional activities](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/) are present at this stage, but they are working on fending off the competition and the competitors that are less successful are pushed out completely.  This is the stage in which companies start to innovate and try to come up with new products to meet the demands of the customers and use new technologies.  ### 4\. Decline The maturity stage can last a very long time, but in the end, eventually, the decline stage will begin.  Here, sales completely stop or at least drop significantly, and there is no or less demand for the product.  Marketing is here minimal or only targeting loyal customers. The prices are significantly reduced. In the end, the product is retired because there is no more demand left.  Some examples of products like this are typewriters, DVD players, etc who are either deeply in decline stages or retired completely from the market. After this stage starts, or even in the previous one, companies will try to get into a new product development process. ## What is the product development process? ![](/images/posts/inline/1bd84076-qa-quality-assurance-quality-control-concept_31965-3842.jpg) The process of developing a new product is the journey from simply having a product concept, to making the product available on the market and everything in between.  Product development is a complex process that encompasses things like identifying a need on the market, doing extensive research into the competition, making a concept of the solution, developing a product roadmap, building the product, and many more things.  The process is not only in charge of simply creating a new product, but also is about giving the product maximum value while mitigating the risks of failing because of low quality, bad pricing, small target audience, premature or delayed market entry, bad promotional support, low brand awareness, and so on.  ## Phases of the product development process  There is different literature out there when it comes to the product development process, and you can find a different number of stages needed for finishing the process.  In some cases, there will be five phases, six or even more- the important thing is that the idea behind them is similar in all of them.  ### 1\. Generating ideas  The first step is very logical. You can’t just wake up one day and start developing a product without having a good idea about what that product might bet. A lot of people find this very hard. The reason is that they are expecting a great idea to just strike them all of a sudden.  Even though there are cases when good ideas come as easy as that, most of the new product development processes start with having an existing product and trying to improve that product in a new way.  These ideas can be inspired by many different things like: 1. Spotting market gaps  2. Discovering opportunities to improve your products 3. Marketing research into customer needs  4. Brainstorming sessions inside the company 5. Analyzing new technologies that competitors use 6. Social media surveys  The most commonly used brainstorming technique that you will find mentioned everywhere when you’re researching the product development process is *SCAMPER*.  The technique started as a tool that had a goal of boosting student creativity, but nowadays it is widely popular among companies that want to improve their offerings.  SCAMPER is an acronym that stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Purpose, Eliminate, Rearrange/Reverse.  The technique works by pushing you to rethink the products and services that you have by answering questions related to these verbs.  ### 2\. Research and idea evaluation Once you have a rough idea or ideas, the work is not done. In fact, it’s only the beginning.  The first of many idea evaluations should take place, and that should be done based on thorough research.  The goal here is to reject ideas that are not so good and have no purpose or future and define the good ideas in a manner that fits the market. Product validation ensures that the product you want to create is something that satisfies the needs of the customers so they would be willing to pay for it.  There are many ways and techniques that you can use to implement the product idea validation like:  1. Share your ideas with your team, family, and friends- hear their opinions 2. Make an online survey to gather feedback 3. Crowdfunding campaign 4. Analyze what your competitors are doing  Other possible tools and techniques that you can use to research and evaluate your idea are: 1. Pass/Fail Evaluation or Evaluation matrix: there is a set of criteria and you sift ideas through it. You create your own criteria according to what is important and relevant to your company. Things like budget, feasibility, how it will fit with company culture, how well it will fit the [overall strategy of the company](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/), etc.  2. SWOT: the very well-known analysis with which you can assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that the product might have.  3. Financial analysis: is done by experts which estimate the costs of development, and compare it with the potential earnings of the new product.  ### 3\. Concept development  Now you have a good idea that you thought through from all aspects. You made sure it’s something that your customers need, that it’s affordable for your company, that it fits the company culture and overall strategies, etc.  Now is the time to really define the product with all its features, functionalities, designs, etc.  You can come up with several concepts and analyze them or test them in the next phase.  This will give you the chance to see which concept might work best for your customers and be a good fit for your company. During this phase, you have to figure everything out connected to the new product like methods of manufacturing, address packaging, suppliers, etc. ### 4\. Testing  The testing stage is where you produce a beta version of your product or a prototype, and test the market.  This is a way in which you will validate the concept and notice any problems or technical issues that might be overlooked by this point. What companies usually do in the testing phase is exposing a certain group of [target consumers to the prototype](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/) and ask them questions in order to discover whether the product is appealing to the customer and does it have value in their eyes. Once you are done with testing, you will decide whether or not the product is ready or worth it to be on the market.  ### 5\. Product development and commercialization Once you have the right idea backed up with thorough research, a good plan, and the approval of customers, you can move onto the next phase which in this case is developing the product.  You can start with manufacturing and all the other related processes that will eventually bring the product to the customers.  At this point, you have to launch your product in the mass market. How you introduce your product can make a big difference in its initial success. You want to create a buzz around the new product and grab the attention of the customers as fast as possible.  Make sure that the customers are aware of the new product that’s about to be launched and do that through marketing, advertising, social media profiles, email marketing, or whatever else campaign you see fit.  Be aware of the pricing. Determine the right price for the product by taking into account your cost and the market prices.  Also, you have to be aware of the timing. You can choose the wrong timing to launch a new product. Even though you can’t predict and control everything around you, try to be aware of what’s happening in the industry.  ## Bottom line To summarize, developing a new product can be a big risk for any company. It can cost a lot of money, and sometimes even the reputation of the company when the product fails.  However, the more you are thorough and dig deep into the product development process, the lesser the risk becomes.  Take your time with product development and ask for help from your team and additional experts on subjects that are out of your domain.  If you decide to incorporate a new product into your offerings, at least do it the right way.  Additionally, you can incorporate more or fewer phases than the five mentioned; you can split them or join them as you prefer, but the gist of it is always the same.  Step-by-step, from a vague idea to a real, defined product.  If you found this post helpful, check out the following articles next:  - [All you need to know about upselling](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-upselling-and-how-to-do-it/) - [Know all about Growth marketing techniques](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-best-growth-hacking-marketing-techniques/) - [Understanding Green marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-green-marketing/) Have you ever been involved in a product development process? What has the experience taught you? Leave a comment letting me know. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Uber Make Money? Overview Of The Revenue Model Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-uber-make-money/ Published: 2020-07-21 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, SEO TL;DR: Uber is a ride-sharing company that got quite successful in the world operating in more than 85 countries throughout the world. The beginnings of the company date back to 2009 and since then Uber has been improving and broadening its involvement in different industries. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. The days where the opening scene of a movie was a person in New York aggressively waving at a yellow taxi are gone. It’s not relatable anymore because all the people are calling taxis on their apps.  One of the cheaper solutions out there is definitely calling an Uber.  No matter where you are from, you must know about Uber and how they have done something new and cost-effective with local transportation.  Uber disrupted the industry in 2009 as a ridesharing company that was both one of the fastest-growing startups and the most controversial ones.  If you’re always wondering how Uber makes money, keep reading because in this post I will explain that and much more about Uber.  ## What is Uber?  Uber is a ride-sharing company that got quite successful in the world operating in more than 85 countries throughout the world.  The [beginnings of the company](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-an-entrepreneur/) date back to 2009 and since then Uber has been improving and broadening its involvement in different industries. Nowadays, Uber has a smartphone application that allows people to book a cab ride fairly easily. The only things that you need to book a cab ride are a smart device and an internet connection. The whole Uber concept is made in a way in which it utilizes time, proximity, and routes. The process happens in [a few steps](https://www.uber.com/it/en/about/how-does-uber-work/) and they are the following:  1. **Open the app**: you have to specify your location in the box titled “Where to?”. Additional options can be chosen for each car ride like the size of the vehicle, the price range, the estimated dropoff time. After you go through all the choices, simply confirm the pickup.  2. **You get matched with a driver**: your request can be seen by nearby drivers and some of them will accept the ride request. After it is accepted, you will get a notification telling you how much time it will take the driver to reach your location. 3. **You are picked up**: when the driver arrives at your destination, you both verify your names to make sure that both sides are correct. Then, the ride starts.  4. **You arrive at your destination**: the rider takes you to your specified destination, and to make sure that it’s the right destination the driver can choose to receive turn-by-turn directions.  5. **Both sides leave ratings and reviews**: once your ride is done, both sides can rate each other with 1 to 5 stars. If you were really satisfied with your ride, you can give the driver compliments and tip them through the app. The amount of money you would have to pay for your rides is a result of an algorithmic procedure that considers different factors such as time spent, distance traveled, fuel used, etc.  Additionally, there is surge pricing that helps in these algorithms.  Another option that Uber offers is its UberPool feature that allows you to share rides with other people from a close-by destination like you.  This is great for everybody since both the users and the company save money for fuel and other charges.  It is also very handy when it comes to increased demand and there are a smaller number of available rides in a certain busy location.  ## Target audience and substitution of taxis The platform is used by basically all social groups that have knowledge in using apps. Young adults are using the app to go to college, and work, as well as older adults, to pool as a form of public transport. The [best thing about Uber](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-best-growth-hacking-marketing-techniques/) is that sometimes it can provide a cheaper option than using your own car.  Another group that uses Uber a lot is tourists who need rides from one touristic attraction to another. They also use it for going to and from airports, stations, even cities.  Basically, Uber is targeting everybody that can use an app, and need a cheaper ride.  Because of those reasons, Uber has succeeded in replacing a lot of taxies out there. Other reasons include: 1. Refusals are unlikely. The cases in which refusals happen are either when the driver can’t make it on time, or no cars are free at the moment.  2. You can choose the type of car. If you are a group of 6, you can find a vehicle that will fit all of you inside.  3. UberPool feature. This feature makes the rides extra cheap since you are sharing the ride with other people.  4. The review and rating system. Give a kind of security that everyone would be on their best behavior because it’s in their interest.  5. Defined time. You know in what time the ride will be at your door. 6. You can contact the driver. You know all the details, the car details, the contact number, etc. 7. The route can be altered by your request ## How does Uber make money?  Uber’s net revenue per quarter rose from $1.4 million to $2.97 billion in the period of 2012 to 2018. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/iGIJaaU7m2Nz3w4az3wW9P2_wikR_eVZ2oOgy9oKX-qdY4kq7fkC9kPLN2FvflZPSXtvHSnV6hgKg4wKe1sOd8z6GAr4ANrSr8biDXhatfc3YZ22QNZbG2asK4ZPWsaA0wH6CC4N) This means that Uber is [making big money](https://alejandrorioja.com/revenue-vs-profit/), even despite its high costs for: 1. Acquiring new drivers through marketing, bonuses, referrals, other incentives  2. High driver churn  3. Acquiring new riders through marketing, giving money for downloading the app, etc 4. Cost for their incredible expansions  5. Costs connected to regulations in different countries. ### 1\. Fee from riders  This feature is now called UberX and it’s the standard option on Uber app. The average rates that riders pay for rides are computed based on the distance, time, time of day, personal profile, etc.  The riders pay a base rate that varies, and it’s based on their personal distance and time.  Around 75-80% of the fees that the riders pay are going to the drivers, and the rest of them are going to Uber. With these earnings, Uber takes care of taxes, credit card fees, marketing, sales, insurance, and other costs. Whatever is left, is their profit.  ### 2\. Uber Pool  The Uber Pool is a feature that is used by many users because it gives them discounted rides. Additionally, this feature is also more financially powerful for Uber because even though the users separately pay lower fares, together it can be 2-4x more for each carpool.  The driver just goes on a route and stops and picks additional riders. On one carpooled route, there might be three different fares, but the driver earns money for driving the whole route. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/hxqpvettDbk74Qak-8gPePMm6TpYZMX2lpKJoVedl5Iht7wKpRsgjAPoX_TCBbS422vX2fhAUcu-9cCGJnNQXZm6w_BliwkoWiQW9SBgPQ3Zc-txNn2m4B6HQu8NnbSCLG2UPIBI) The driver would drive that route anyway, additional people are just additional fees. It works better for users, it works better for Uber, and it works better for drivers because they are idle for shorter periods.  ### 3\. Uber Eats  Uber Eats is a food delivery app that might be the most profitable unit of their company.  In the early days of the platform, it generated $7.9 billion in gross bookings which made Uber the largest meal delivery service worldwide with the exception of China.  The reason that this unit is so profitable is that it is using the already existing network of Uber drivers to provide value added service to the customers. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HbpiBKW-uvjbEKV83fKYQemGpfA9tA9rxucQMWY4Z7MgoyN4KUSuSWgTgF0FD-agpMOmBXBLzZNHQWfEmK_67i3U0eL2Zp1-nYzqGg2L7S0XLPm5in4vI6V2Rp8vhBLiyxcBYfke) More than 220,000 restaurants in more than 500 cities are delivering through Uber Eats via the local drivers through their standard app. More than 16% of Uber’s active users got food delivery through Uber Eats in the last quarter of 2018. Relevant: [A guide to integrated marketing communication](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/) ### 4\. Uber Black  Uber Black is a premium transport service offered by Uber, which is a marginal percentage of the revenue. Luxury transport doesn’t quite fit in the overall model of Uber, and the demand is not high for it.  Additionally, the expenses for driving for this unit are quite higher than the standard UberX because the vehicles used for it are quite more expensive to be bought or leased.  Also, ensuring and maintaining luxurious vehicles brings higher expenses as well. Since the biggest problem is demand, the prices are falling all the time and today it’s quite cheaper to use this unit even if you are not financially advantaged.  ### 5\. Uber Freight  Uber Freight is an app that is used for matching carriers with shippers, providing an advanced platform for logistics. This  unit was launched in 2017 and since then it has expanded a lot throughout the U.S and in some other countries as well such as Germany and the Netherlands.  Thousands of shippers and half a million truck drivers are using the platform for easier shipping process.  The way it usually is, shipping companies go through freight brokers that act as the middle man.  These “Middle Men” match the companies with truckers for a certain commission. ![](/images/posts/inline/f97f66ef-pasted-image-0-53.png) Uber Freight takes out the middle man and connects the shipping companies with the truck drivers.  The drivers get a list of available jobs with all the details connected to them like route, what they’re shipping, how much is it paid, etc.  When they make the delivery, they can find the next job on the app.  In the future, Uber will pay attention to their New Mobility organization that will include electric bikes, scooters, transit, and other possibilities. ## Bottom line Uber has always been good at predicting the future needs of the customers and making affordable, out of the box decisions when it comes to developing new units.  They are always expanding in one way or another, and we can only wait and see what the future holds for this disruption-liking company.  Did you find this article helpful? If so, you should check out these other posts on how other giants make money: - [Netflix revenue stream](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/)  - [Paypal revenue model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/)  - [How does DuckDuckGo earn?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-duckduckgo-make-money/)  Leave a comment letting me know which other company you’re curious about learning. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## YouTube Vs. Vimeo: An Ultimate Comparison Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-vs-vimeo/ Published: 2020-07-21 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: Reviews, SEO TL;DR: If you’re just starting to make videos, figuring out which is right for you between YouTube and Vimeo might be a little tricky. Well put your mind at ease, today we’re here to help you break down the differences and help you make the right choice. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. If you’re just starting to make videos, figuring out which is right for you between YouTube and Vimeo might be a little tricky. Well put your mind at ease, today we’re here to help you break down the differences and help you make the right choice. Both options are among the most popular sharing platforms, but there are individual differences that exist between them. Getting to know about the differences helps you decide on which sharing platform is right for you. Our primary purpose here is to elucidate the differences and highlight how each platform satisfies the individual user. Before we begin, check out this short video that highlights some of the differences between Vimeo and YouTube: ## **What are Vimeo and YouTube?** #                 ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/MRQwhj05HaS1lwloG8vdCs0-s0mh5DkqRTMwZXjyNtXYwJowcJb3Et2Ym9MOgoHNd-0H50hJZPVvhaq2iDNU1NPiixHXjSHe0pZoutD36-2mTrv9OyTywQ1yKu1KwDZ413KIH5uj) Let’s begin by elaborating on what these two platforms are. Vimeo is an optimized internet video streaming site that authorizes users to upload and promote their videos. With a great extent of customization that is not found on other competing websites. YouTube is a video sharing platform that enables users to stream videos uploaded by other users and upload personal videos. YouTube videos are uploaded by people from all around the world, from various backgrounds.  Vimeo differs significantly from YouTube due to it’s “artsy” distinctiveness. That’s not to assert that artists shouldn’t publicize their work on YouTube, because they should if that is where their audience base is. They are both instrumental in the sharing of videos. ## **What is Vimeo?** ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/XZiUm1_FA1vyRAhD4pTt_UEaA-hhQ2j5TE9oG5WqVMrYbwsQnkB8TjH5Ch9MAlmtNqS916rdYYijW05k687oq3dfxtzBbewMt8I2str7NmVY5vjjGUGkakmf76bJTjHA6GycavSU) Vimeo is a video sharing outlet that was founded in 2004 by an association of filmmakers. Furthermore, the platform has accumulated over 80 million content creators — most of the users in film, music, animation, and others— who’ve been able to utilize Vimeo as a way to promote and share their work. Vimeo’s technique has some definite variations from YouTube. A fee is required if it is a business account, but you get a higher-quality setting in return. At 170 million per month viewers, Vimeo certainly isn’t minor except when compared to YouTube. ### **Pros** 1. Vimeo does not allow video adverts. There will be no interruptions when watching a video, so there’s more chance of viewers watching the video all the way. 2. There are more values attached to a paid business account. You can save up to 5 terabytes of video. You can customise your page with your personal logo and colours. 3. Privacy settings grant you full control over who can watch your videos. Among others, you can protect your video with a password or indicate which accounts can watch it.  4. You can create a portfolio in your account, with your branding and domain name. 5. Vimeo has a status for higher quality. ### **Cons** 1. Visibility is less than YouTube by all measures. It has a smaller audience, fewer views, and lower standing in Google’s search results. 2. You can’t accept ads to sponsor your videos. 3. Vimeo imposes limits on the total amount of storage you can use. How much you get depends on the plan you choose. ## **What is YouTube?** ![](/images/posts/inline/06bf085c-mokup-smartphone-technology-phone-34407-scaled.jpg) YouTube is the most common [popular video-sharing outlet](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-youtube-videos/) and after Google search, it is the second largest. Billions of videos have been shared on the site since it began in 2005, ranging from music videos, Hollywood movie trailers, and amateur vlogs. ### **Pros** 1. YouTube’s most apparent objective is visibility. It has over a billion users by its estimate. Networking with other channels can quickly amass an audience. 2. To get an account on YouTube is free, including business accounts, and there is no restriction on how many videos can be posted.  3. YouTube has excellent methods for expanding your business via video. For instance, “annotations,” which are texts you can click on in the video, that invites viewers to your site. 4. It’s effortless to embed YouTube videos on blogging and social media websites. Videos that are embedded don’t subject the viewer to video ads. ### **Cons** 1. Excess ads. They discontinue the video at random junctures. 2. There is a lot of competition. The vast majority of users have low quality, giving the appearance that YouTube is a tossing ground for anything.  3. Comments are mostly unmoderated and often unpleasant. Some users disable comments for their videos to avoid this. 4. Recommended videos can redirect to competitors’ sites. ## **Differences** ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EGV7bcb5vS2uwPpv_VgxAQlSBFOJylLUsSFqpo4YqEFFOycTTq9rOPP5r-i_Sv1m_XBS6c3lz0BCUHbwN6xBdrNc08-dy6_x-QgPjb5-4-my_Wvyri1detDSTyov9vZyIEvYP9Wr) YouTube and Vimeo are the two most popular video sites and there are some essential differences that set them apart from each other, as we’ve talked about. One similarity is that both YouTube and Vimeo grant free services, but there are unique differences in each platform’s premium services. ### The communities YouTube and Vimeo have different communities of users, so it is best to consider your audience before deciding where to upload your video. YouTube has a vast community, with over 1 billion users that view millions of hours of content daily! With that vast amount of people, there are bound to be risks. You may run into highly objectionable viewers that voice out whatever opinion that they have about your video. YouTube’s bigger audience generates more content, but note that quantity doesn’t invariably mean quality. Vimeo has a lesser community. Out of it’s 170 million users, about 42 million are located in the United States. Vimeo’s community is mainly very supportive, and several viewers offer more constructive responses than you may receive on YouTube. Another striking difference between both platforms is that with a lesser community, you will often find increased production values. ### Membership Vimeo offers four different membership alternatives: PRO, Plus, and Premium, Business. They each have varying degrees of storage capacity. Vimeo offers a fundamental, free enrollment, however, it constrains you to 500MB of storage at the most every week.  Then again, you can make a YouTube video free with boundless capacity with regards to hosting. YouTube centers around bringing in cash with their promoting, not month to month or yearly installment plans like Vimeo.  All things considered, YouTube offers a $9.99/month membership subscription called YouTube Red, which permits you to see recordings without advertisements.  Notwithstanding having the option to watch recordings promotion free, you will likewise approach a record of unique programming, the capacity to download recordings so you can watch disconnected later, just as a music application. Read: [Choosing a name for your YouTube channel](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-pick-a-youtube-channel-name/) ### Refreshing your recordings  Have you, at any point, transferred a video, at that point, acknowledged you needed to add an improvement to it? Vimeo permits you to supplant a video after it has been transferred without losing that video’s details. This can be useful on the off chance that you understand you committed an error in your video, or something like a name should be refreshed.  On the other side, when you transfer your video to YouTube, it can’t be changed without totally erasing the document and re-transferring. This implies you will lose the entirety of your perspectives and details in the process.  If you use YouTube, twofold, and triple check spelling and substance, because once you post it, you can’t fix it! I am still hoping YouTube fixes this issue because it will help a lot of users. ### Copyright and ownership YouTube will identify copyrighted music and pictures very quickly upon transfer, naturally crippling these components in the event that you don’t have consent to utilize them. This can help ensure you’re not encroaching on a copyright unexpectedly.  Vimeo then again, isn’t as severe and won’t cripple your substance. In the event that you pick Vimeo, know that it actually is taking on the off chance that you don’t possess the rights to any media in your video. It is crucial to utilize decision-making ability when sharing your work.  ### Promoting  You may see that YouTube has promotions everywhere both on the site and inside the video player. As an advertiser, you have huge amounts of alternatives to contact your particular crowds with profoundly focused on promotions on YouTube, however as a watcher it very well may be overpowering.  Vimeo invests heavily in keeping their site liberated from promotions and you won’t see one playing previously, during, or after your substance. This is due to the fact that, as I said previously, they bring in their cash on membership.  ### Analytics #### Vimeo statistics  Vimeo in truth has a breathtaking page on its site that features the entirety of the astonishing factual information that you can assemble from watchers of your Vimeo recordings. You can without much of a stretch access key measurements, for example, impressions, plays, completes, preferences, remarks, and your most mainstream recordings. You can likewise observe where around the world your watchers are watching and monitor your other key insights, for example, dropouts, skipped areas, and so on after some time. Snap here to see the [Vimeo Statistics Page](https://vimeo.com/features/video-analytics).  #### Youtube statistics  Youtube likewise can give you a scope of top to bottom information for your Youtube Videos. As with Vimeo, you can undoubtedly get to key measurements, for example, impressions, plays, completes, preferences, remarks, and your most mainstream recordings. This implies you can track and audit the accomplishment or disappointment of your recordings inside and out. YouTube additionally offers [knowledge into traffic sources](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/), sexual orientation, what gadgets your watchers are utilizing, and crowd maintenance. Another component of YouTube is the capacity to include comments or “interactive hotspots” on your video that permits watchers to associate.  Relevant: [How to increase your YouTube subscriber count?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-more-subscribers-on-youtube/) ### Security options  Vimeo offers [content that is password protected](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-5-password-managers/). This can be incredible in the event that you are looking into content with customers and need to keep it covered up. Vimeo offers an assortment of other protection choices too.  YouTube permits three alternatives; open, unlisted and private. Unlisted means just those with the link can see it, while private means just those you welcome with a functioning YouTube account can see it. ## **Overall Summary** At long last, it truly relies upon the crowd you are attempting to reach in light of the fact that the two stages offer incredible assets for organizations who are venturing into the universe of computerized video. There are additionally a ton of other online video stages to browse now, and finding the correct one relies upon the highlights and usefulness you require for your recordings.  Nothing prevents you from utilizing the two platforms, contingent upon your focus on every video. YouTube is commonly the better approach if your principle point is to contact the biggest crowd. Vimeo’s points of interest stand apart when you have a specific crowd and can arrive at it straightforwardly.  On the off chance that you need the best appearance and are eager to accomplish all crafted by advancement, or if you need a video site that doesn’t have the YouTube look, that is the best ideal opportunity to go with Vimeo.  Maybe a smart thought is to make a free account with both Vimeo and Youtube and play around with each and see which stage (or both) best suits the points of your business. I hope outlining the differences between Vimeo and YouTube has proven useful to you. If you liked this article, feel free to comment and let me know your thoughts and questions, if any. Also feel free to check out the following sites to help you with video marketing - [A complete guideline for YouTube thumbnails](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-thumbnail-size/amp/)  - [How To Do Digital Marketing: A Beginner’s Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/amp/) - [Effective growth marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/the-best-growth-hacking-marketing-techniques/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 5 Ways to Become a Trusted Influencer Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-to-become-a-trusted-influencer/ Published: 2020-07-20 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Rated 4.75 out of 5 based on 4 customer ratings Add to cart - Sale Product on sale ~$2,000~ Original price was: $2,000.$975Current price is: $975. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Have you ever thought about what it would take to become an [influencer](https://futuresharks.com/category/news/)? You might think all you need is a pretty smile or fancy editing skills, but there is a lot more to building an audience that believes in your work and finding related sponsors who will trust you to sell their product. *(For instance, here’s a [guide to becoming an influencer on Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/))* But let’s be clear: marketers at every level use influencers to launch their campaigns, whether it be for the latest energy drink to hit the grocery stores or for the newest in fashion, technology, or fitness. Take a look at how you can become a trusted influencer on social media. ## 1\. Find the Right Niche for You The first thing you need to know when setting out to become an influencer is that you need to pick an area of specialty, properly known as a niche. There are plenty of popular niches from which you can choose, particularly ones related to health and fitness, beauty, travel, fashion, and making money. What binds all these topics together is how they help improve the lives of others, either with self-help or entertainment value. As you research to [discover the niche that suits your knowledge](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-find-a-niche-ways-to-determine-if-your-niche_b_58e3d03ee4b09deecf0e1aa7), skills, and personality, you will need to think about how you will become an expert in your area. You will want to break down your niche in order to find a topic within that area that will help you stand out among the crowd, and then your job will be to learn as much as possible within that topic and share your knowledge with others. One of the best ways to learn is to follow other influencers in your space and see what they are posting. You can find your favorite influencers on my site [SoInfluential](https://soinfluential.com/). Want to get covered on my sites to increase your personal brand? Check out these offers: - [ Sale Product on sale ![5 Site Press Package](/images/posts/inline/e0259c10-3.png) 5 Site Press Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/5-site-package/) ~$1,100~ Original price was: $1,100.$775Current price is: $775. Rated **4.75** out of 5 based on 4 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=4&lang=en&add-to-cart=25590) - [ Sale Product on sale ![7 Site Press Package](/images/posts/inline/4543cae5-pr-bundles-300x150.png) 7 Site Press Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/7-site-package/) ~$2,000~ Original price was: $2,000.$975Current price is: $975. Rated **5.00** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=4&lang=en&add-to-cart=25584) - [ Sale Product on sale ![3 Site Package](/images/posts/inline/be678ed9-1.png) 3 Site Package ](https://alejandrorioja.com/product/3-site-package/) ~$875~ Original price was: $875.$625Current price is: $625. Rated **4.83** out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings [Add to cart](/wp-json/wp/v2/posts?per_page=100&_embed&page=4&lang=en&add-to-cart=22195) ## 2\. Be Authentic to Gain Trust If there’s one thing you need to learn before you make a single piece of content, it’s that being fake doesn’t sell. If your audience is going to trust you, it will be because they believe you have their best interests in mind and that you aren’t [just another sleazy salesperson](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). Let your personality shine through your posts! The best thing you can do for your audience is to have an educated opinion, supported by facts and empathy while being truthful about what you believe regarding your niche. ## 3\. Be Consistent and Post Regularly If you study the [top influencers closely](http://authoritydaily.com/), you will notice that they all have one thing in common. They are not necessarily the most funny or the best content out there, but they post every day. This helps them stay on top of mind, and also increases the chances that one of their posts goes viral. Here are some social media secrets I shared during a presentation at Parent Heart watch. ## 4\. Learn to Engage With Your Audience You might believe in the power of numbers for social influence, and while you’re on the right track, you might be looking at the wrong numbers. Markets don’t care if someone has a large number of followers, they care if those followers are being engaged. The proof that you have an [engaged audience](https://intellifluence.com/blog/5-things-brands-look-for-in-social-media-influencers) is when you have presented them with information and they have a reaction to your point of view. Learn to ask questions to your audience that will cause them to want to interact with your content. These interaction triggers can be things like: - drop a comment below - tag a friend that can relate - hit the like button (on Youtube) - Ask “do you agree or disagree” ![social media sites](/images/posts/inline/9221cf41-apps-business-cellphone-cellular-telephone-533446-1024x576.jpg) ## 5\. Follow these specific guides for the social media site you want to grow I’ve written quite a good amount about going viral and becoming influential on several platforms, here’s a roundup - [How to go viral on Snapchat](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) - [How to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_b_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) - [Go viral on Instagram](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/) - [Go viral on Facebook](https://futuresharks.com/go-viral-facebook-goubtube/) - [Best Pinterest scripts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-mass-follow-on-pinterest-scripts/) ## Bottom line At the end of the day, [influencers have much to consider](https://intellifluence.com/blog/5-things-brands-look-for-in-social-media-influencers) when it comes to becoming a trusted source of information to the audience they are building. You’re going to want to learn to market yourself, networking with other successful influencers, and present yourself in the best light possible to those looking for what you have to offer. *Which niche are you going after? Drop a link to your social platform on the comments so I check it out!* --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Salesforce Work? Features & Revenue Model Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-salesforce-work/ Published: 2020-07-20 Updated: 2024-05-23 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. As a blogger, I want to know what my readers want, based on which I always strive to give them the best [content quality](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/).  When I started, one of the options I thought about was customer relationship management software, but I realized early on that not all of them are the same. In this article, I will talk about one of the CRM services.  [Salesforce](https://www.salesforce.com/in/?ir=1) is one of the most talked-about customer relationship management services and rightly so because of the many features it offers. In this article, I will talk about the services Salesforce offers and what exactly Salesforce does.  Before we go on, take a moment to watch this video to give you an overview of Salesforce.  ## **What is Salesforce?** Based on the Salesforce website, Salesforce is a cloud-based customer relationship management service that brings customers and companies together.  Salesforce is one of the world’s largest and most popular cloud platform providers. Since Salesforce is cloud-based, it can be operated from anywhere across devices, reducing work limitations.  Salesforce is a software that has evolved into service because of the lack of constraint in its use. ## **What is customer relationship management?** ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/OkR7DtZiJI1aMrCknVtbkdzTPVkb_9w4Yvscbi_0DvAu5RCEoYuDG2_wVGo88zpBnvpNw49Ln65njUDB6gjBG5K9r0ttk3JANIeBUTWiT1L5vR9K_Wk9AVCQyfGTMHADRO-ewXdp) Customer relationship management or CRM manages a company’s customer interaction with both current customers and potential customers. Customer relationship management analyzes customer and company business history to improve their business relationships with a focus on customer retention and to drive sales growth. A beneficial part of customer relationship management is its multisource data compilation network. CRM gets data from a company’s website, live chat, social media (more recently), email, marketing materials, and telephone. CRM businesses, approaches, and facilitating systems learn a lot about their target audience and the best ways to cater to them. There are five types of customer relationship management.  1. Collaborative CRM 2. Operational CRM—this is the type of CRM used by Salesforce  3. Analytical CRM 4. Strategic  CRM 5. Customer data platform Relevant: [A guide to relationship marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/) ## **What does Salesforce do?** ![](/images/posts/inline/c155b925-screenshot-www.salesforce.com-2020.07.20-16_43_38.png) Salesforce is essentially the one-stop cloud software for businesses and companies to maintain, manage, grow, and communicate with their customer base and revenue streams.  They make cloud-based customer relationship management service that is designed to keep customers happy. Salesforce is used by companies to understand their customers better and connect with them on different levels while helping these companies grow their customer base.  It has numerous cloud-based programs designed to improve sales and productivity: the cloud-based software tracks customer’s analysis, customer complaints, and customer’s success and reports. Companies that use the Salesforce software see an average increase in customer satisfaction, lead conversion, sales revenue, and faster deployment.  Salesforce has a diverse variety of clouds that help users with marketing, performance analysis, data analyses, sales tracking, communication maintenance, spending, sales strategy implementation, and other services. Salesforce has been implementing artificial intelligence into their Einstein program to help simplify analytics and workflow to produce more accurate forecasting and other benefits. ### **Cloud-based software** Salesforce is a cloud-based software that uses data storage and accessibility to draw a customer base from anywhere with any device. Salesforce operates by using a cloud-based computing and software distribution model that hosts applications and makes them available online. By 2020, some of the Salesforce cloud platforms include: 1. Marketing cloud 2. Analytics cloud 3. Service cloud 4. App cloud 5. IoT cloud 6. Heroku engagement cloud 7. Health cloud 8. Commerce cloud 9. Community cloud 10. Chatter cloud #### **Sales cloud** Sales Cloud provides the information needed to close deals, manage contacts, collaborate, and track opportunities from the start of relationships until the closing of business deals. Their sales cloud helps companies track contacts, manage teams, and opportunities to increase sales. #### **Service cloud** Service cloud permits companies to deliver premium customer service and connect with customers by showing customer activity and resolving issues. #### **Marketing cloud** The marketing cloud helps companies track the journey of their customers and provides many marketing channel campaigns. #### **Community cloud** A community cloud is like an open forum that allows companies to interact with their customers and lets customers communicate with each other. #### **Analytics cloud**  The analytics cloud helps in making quick and smart decisions. It enables you to turn a large volume of data into an advantage by uncovering insights and taking instant action across devices. #### **App cloud** App cloud helps you build engaging customer-employee apps within a secure and mobile site. #### **IoT cloud**   IoT cloud helps you connect data from the internet with the rest of Salesforce for better insights and real customer action. ### **Salesforce CRM software**  In this section, I will give you a run-through of the structure of the Salesforce application. #### **Home screen** Its home screen is designed to look like a [social media news feed](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/), which gives the user a glance at company and customer updates. The updates are a means of communication that offers a glimpse at which team members and clients are working together. The home screen also has a dashboard that shows a summary of the sales pipeline and goals. It shows both open and closed cases and case types in legible charts. The dashboard can be customized and shared with other users. #### **Contacts** This tab is an essential Salesforce app tab because it shows reports, recent contacts, and tools at a glance. Users can click contact links and view their information. The contact tab shows contacts social media, campaign, and activity history. It can link to specific accounts and offers essential customer and company information. #### **Opportunity**  It tracks information about deals, and this tab also shows activity history. Users can add quotes and notes and attachments here, to track meetings and interactions. #### **Campaign**  This tab contains features that assist users in marketing. It also shows up to date contact information. It also opens opportunities to track campaigns across various channels, even social media. It has a feature that helps you track campaign progress and make smart investment decisions. #### **Reports and dashboards** These tabs help you create reports with ease and helps in setting dashboards for any member of the company. Deal types show reports from expected revenue to the stage of the deal. #### **App exchange** App exchange is a marketplace for business applications and consulting partners. It offers a wide range of CRM and other apps and gives room for app delivery and marketing by users for users. It provides room to integrate various apps like Excel, Gmail, and more. #### **Leads** Leads are unqualified business prospects or potential customers. Leads can be converted to accounts, opportunities, or contacts once verified, and then you can track their deals from the sales cycle. The Salesforce software also has other vital tabs like accounts, forecasts, chatter, files, and others. In a nutshell, Salesforce drives sales and motivates behavior in the following ways. 1. It helps you [get leads through opportunity management](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). 2. Accelerates productivity through its innovative lead management system (LMS) 3. It closes sales through a holistic contact management system. ## **Salesforce’s business and revenue model** The key to the Salesforce′s business model is its value-added based on rapidly deployed, easily configured and easily integrated services. Salesforce created a CRM service that is easy to use and maintain as opposed to regular CRM software. Salesforce delivers its services in two significant ways. 1. Through dominant internet browsers and mobile devices; 2. Via direct sales efforts and indirect sales efforts from partners Salesforce’s revenue model is subscription-based. Over $7.75 billion comes from sales of their cloud services. Their annual subscriptions generate 93% of their revenue, and 7% of the income is from their professional services. ### **Subscription-based revenue model** The [subscription-based revenue model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/) is a business model where customers pay a recurring price at regular intervals to access products; it is used to lower an upfront cost.  It provides room to pay for subscription increments after signing membership instead of a large upfront payment.  Subscription-based payment plans “hooks” customers for a long-term stay, improving customer relationships. ## **Benefits and limitations of Salesforce** Any useful application comes with benefits and limitations; that is why there is always room for improvements and upgrades. ### **Benefits of Salesforce** In no particular order, the benefits of Salesforce are as follows. 1. Team collaboration 2. Customer information 3. Time management 4. Accessibility 5. Account planning #### **Team collaboration** Salesforce helps you communicate with your team members easily. The software has a “Chatter” feature that lets you share work-related information with individuals and groups. The chatter tab allows you to add team members to accounts and opportunities that need special attention, which helps teams schedule and prioritize tasks giving you more time to work with leads. Chatter helps you keep your team focused on the need of the hour each day and, in turn, improves team productivity. #### **Customer information** Salesforce retrieves both qualitative and quantitative information, which is one of its most significant advantages. Salesforce organizes the accounts, events, opportunities, tasks, and contacts of individuals accessible for you to [approach them as potential customers](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-customer-base/). Salesforce lets you track information that helps you keep customer’s profiles organized with ease. Even if your client or potential client is assigned to another representative, you can have all their information in a convenient location, offering a complete business growth and management approach.  It eliminates gaps in customer support due to the cloud computing nature that lets you connect with customers irrespective of location.  This benefit helps you and your employees enjoy vacations without worries about who needs to replace anyone out of the office and recruit potential customers. Its digital design is an upgrade from physical documents and multiple excel folders. #### **Time management** The planning option of Salesforce, along with detailed customer information, helps with time management. Time management is essential because you have client information that enables you to prioritize the client’s needs while organizing tasks. It has a built-in calendar to help you visualize your schedule on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. #### **Accessibility** Since Salesforce is a cloud-based service, it is available on any smart device with internet access. You can also use Salesforce’s app to stay in touch with your team at all hours. The application is a perfect hands-on program that assists business owners to stay in touch with their team always.  Salesforce makes your data accessible irrespective of physical location and device. It also helps your team keep constant contact and offer timeless customer service. #### **Account planning** Salesforce makes all your customer information readily available to you and your sales reps to make independent account plans. It helps you and your sales reps make strategic plans by providing tools to connect with clients. Salesforce provides a to-do list and reminder options for you and your reps to stay organized and on top of your game. This option also helps you keep track of customer and management appointments and follow-ups. Lastly, its organization option helps you keep track of the time spent on accounts to keep track of client’s payments and time spent on cases. ### **Limitations** Salesforce has few limitations currently due to constant improvement.  Some of the current limitations are: 1. It has a large variety of features that may eventually get overwhelming overtime if your CRM need is basic. 2. They charge for new features, which will add up and quickly become expensive.  3. The target of Salesforce is larger companies, so it is quite expensive. ## **Summary** Salesforce is one of the few customer relationship management services that keeps your data organized while giving you unlimited renewable possibilities. With an understanding of what Salesforce does, I hope you can pick the best CRM that works for you.  Meanwhile, here is a comparison of different customer relationship management services by [forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/quickerbettertech/2020/03/04/on-crm-from-salesforce-to-zoho-which-of-these-10-crms-is-really-best-for-your-business/#795794a23820).  Tell me in the comment section below which CRM platforms you have heard of or used and which ones you prefer. Remember to share this article in case someone needs it. Check these articles to learn more about the revenue models of different companies.  - [How does Venmo earn money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/)  - [Paypal’s revenue model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/)  - [DuckDuckGo’s revenue streams](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-duckduckgo-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Are Facebook Polls And How To Make them Engaging? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-facebook-polls-engaging/ Published: 2020-07-20 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: One of the tools I have used over the years is Facebook. I also have written about how to get verified on Facebook and invite more people to a page in case you are looking for guidance in these areas. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. As I have built my business on the internet for seven years, I am still learning the ins and outs of various features of online platforms to help me increase my presence. One of the tools I have used over the years is Facebook. I also have written about how to [get verified on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) and [invite more people](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) to a page in case you are looking for guidance in these areas. In this article, I will share with you how you can make use of Facebook polls. My goal is to help you harness this feature to assist you in gaining more clicks and customers. Before I show you more, watch this video to help you put up a great Facebook page. ## Why do Facebook polls work For starters, [Revive Social](https://revive.social/) cited the following as the [reasons](https://revive.social/how-to-create-facebook-polls/) why you should post Facebook polls on your page: 1. Use polls to get feedback from your followers. Most companies build their customer connections by asking them what they think about their products and services. Doing this before you release a new product or during a sale would help you learn more about them. 2. Polls increase your chance of getting more traffic. Once you post a poll on Facebook, you can use this to convince people to support your brand. Depending on how many people you invite or how much your followers share your poll, you can increase your page’s visibility in the long run. 3. Keep your page active when using polls. Having polls on your page would help you stay consistent in updating it. Doing this will help keep your brand visibility high. Aside from that, there will be a chance of getting more people to support your brand every day. 4. Increase your knowledge of your customer base through polls. Due to its interactive nature, you can convince your users to share their opinion through your polls. Aside from that, their friends can find an interest and share the survey and their advice. 5. Add one once in a while to keep your page entertaining. Posting as often as you can is an important thing to keep your brand engaging and on [top of your advertising game](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-advertising/). This will help keep your audience on their toes. ## Types of Facebook polls All-in-all, there are three types of Facebook polls you can create. You can use each one on your Facebook page to include polls. ### The built-in poll on Facebook Once Facebook bought several polling companies in the past, they added this feature where anyone could post polls on stories and groups. #### Creating a poll on a Facebook group Once you login to Facebook, visit one of the groups where you are either a member or an admin in. If you were redirected to a different tab once it loads, go to the discussion tab first. After that, click on the “Create Post” option and click the ellipses to see the full menu. Click on “Poll,” and it will generate a list of two options with two checkmarks. After filling up the first two choices, you can add more options by clicking “Add Option.” You can also set it to let other people choose more than one answer or add more options while they answer. #### Creating one through your story To create one using your Story, you would have to log into your Facebook account on any mobile device.  After that, you would have to tap “Add to Story.” Scroll to the right and tap the “Poll” option. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qzLzdRvQjDIiawjTacb2CkTyxUWU5yccUsRwNkeIiTxFuNiCRRbaOIrov6TD_igOTjVQs-088AK4eABGoqdtgKl6rRz-7e8ix9oSh1wUtpduusAbcPI6k8mOmpl2qnvzru2ewUcK) The screen below shows what you will see. Unlike the poll for the Facebook group, you can only have two options for this type of poll. This is also where you can ask the question and fill in the “Yes” and “No” options however you want. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/03iMApR1Cb4HGkGZDiXseWmLo-BAf-CkYg-PSfdxCLOk8_1kYfMSeUDh_SBaes67k5DJHbshmyqHGVxfnqsgCZfQ7GdbbCh37Il5NmLf8J9oC7avJ_Lr_8T41Fg9N36CrdhwIJSy) You can also notice that you can add stickers, text, or effects at the top right corner. There is also an option to choose a background and tag people to answer your poll. At the bottom left, you can save your poll for later. Aside from that, you can also select whether you want this specific story to be shown to everyone on Facebook or restrict it to several people or your own friends’ list. Once you are satisfied with these changes, you can tap “Done,” It will be shown as a Story for 24 hours. ### Comparison photos Unlike the first two methods, this type of Facebook poll involves posting at least two pictures and adding a caption that asks anyone who encounters the post about their opinion. As an example, look at the ESPN post below. They added five athletes representing those whose teams will enter the Super Bowl and asked which one of their teams will win in the next event. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/KB8USh4KVrAM6vYk7o4x275ro1eUW_FQPS2FoarPz6Te10IPrd0jZY35wwszi8-sAJVgIV-Vk1hNZwezZ1oEy_A9SxZdXNf0xQ5ZJyhPyrLjs2D6MQmd6KYHVG26GLEg5ywELEQ0) When creating this form of a Facebook poll, you can create one  on your own PC browser or Facebook app. Simply create a post on your business page with a group of at least two pictures and make the appropriate caption with a question. Relevant: [Here’s how you can change your FB page name](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/) ### Posting a simple question The simplest form of having a poll is to post a question on your Facebook page. As an example, let us take the post from Hulu below: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SwPdyq9G06H3me5By4r4Vs73dRMDOtmh_C88N-pv_La8um59htnrRek3LLJPRU-JiLIapRmAjWWNBy2pUQaK9QWteRTduAS0Nm-r5TIIOdiFSbrd6L8aGg3Jy8Vmpc-Z8Cz16B0-) This form of census not only asks for input from your intended audience. It also allows people to respond more frequently to this post. Creating this post is similar to creating the Facebook photo poll earlier. For this type, however, you would simply have to type in a question. ### Asking a question with a link ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5AetWygut95CqeFTe8EMgniRzacsahxfr8JAK7nSzK9LGFDUm3VWHjW3iZkN3j5ORpDfYm8ocL-wWA1gBAjf_GhdOz7aWVvgJJspED65lHf1cxBQDaQBYNmNsS-Bv4n0-tzGeHzw) This form of polling is one of the most popular types found in most pages today. It is made for visitors to engage with your business’ Facebook page and give you more views on your website. In the example above, TabloTV opted to ask its page followers on which cast from a past show they would want to add to a favorite show airing now. Doing this will help them learn what old and new favorites the respondents want to add to their list of shows. They also made a few suggestions on which person should come on which show, which shows their knowledge of the shows they want or have hosted on their platform. Also Read: [What is Facebook marketplace?](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/) ## Tips on how to make your visitors engage your Facebook polls After learning the type of polls you can make on Facebook, let us explore how you can make use of this post format to the fullest to increase your brand awareness. ### Think of an interesting question All polls start with a good question. When asking one for your audience, you should make sure of the following things: 1. Make sure the topic is one of the most trending through SEO research 2. Pick a popular topic that has been asked by one of your competitors 3. Ask a question that is related to your brand in some way ### Make your poll straight-to-the-point For this tip, there are several rules to follow. Overall, there are two tips to keep in mind. #### Keep it simple Avoid asking questions that are too long. Your questions should be at least 120 characters short. Ask only one thing per question. Speaking of keeping things short, you should also define any abbreviations found in the article. Doing this will help avoid any confusion. For example, everyone will understand the question, “What do you think about the recent NASA launch?” if you were a space-themed cafe. On the other hand, if you have a small pharmacy, posting a question such as “What was the one thing you did AMA?” would confuse most of your visitors. After this question, explain that the abbreviation [means](https://abbreviations.yourdictionary.com/articles/common-accronyms.html) “Against Medical Advice.” #### Ask positive questions You want your viewers to view your brand in a positive light. As an example, you want to ask either, “What did you not like about our Product X?” instead of “What did you think about Product X?” If you chose the first question, it would only leave negative reviews about your product. Asking the second question will help you get answers from satisfied and unsatisfied customers. That way, future visitors can choose freely whether to support your product or not. ### Start with several options When asking a poll where you would list more than one option, you can have between two to five. Going past this would make your poll seem uninteresting because of the possibilities they have to choose. ### Allow your audience to add options Speaking of multiple options, you can make your poll more interactive by asking your visitors to add more. Doing this will help you look like you are receptive to people’s opinions and ready to change based on their tastes. ### Keep your poll pinned This rule is applicable, especially if you post content every day. Aside from that, you can only pin the poll when you post it on a group or page. Doing this will help get both your old and new visitors to keep interacting with your page. It will also help everyone get an idea of what your page is like. ### Regularly invite people to vote This final tip will help you convert visitors to future customers for your Facebook page. You can invite people by tagging people or pages using the @ sign. Aside from that, you can convince your visitors to share this post through their timeline or messenger. ## Wrapping up! In this article, we explored the use of Facebook polls for your business. You can increase your brand awareness and customer connections, depending on the type of survey you post. Aside from that, we explored my tips on how to make them effective. From inviting people to vote to asking them to fill up more options, there are many strategies to make it more interactive and increase its respondents. Was this article helpful for you? If you want to increase your online presence, do read the following guides as a bonus: - [How to do SEO in 2020](https://flux.la/seo/) - [All about CPA marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-cpa-marketing/)?  - [How to scheduling your Instagram posts?](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) Comment below and let me know what other social media topics you want me to cover in the next articles. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Is Upselling And How To Do It? Benefits & Tips Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-upselling-and-how-to-do-it/ Published: 2020-07-17 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Marketing ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Hearing the word “upsell” makes many people envision the sleazy sales people trying aggressively to push some unnecessary products only for the sake of their profit.  And this is not completely untrue since there are many people out there that upsell for the wrong reasons or at least they do it in a completely wrong manner. That’s why upselling has a bad reputation among businesses and they are quite unsure if they should ever implement it in their working.  I, on the other hand, have different opinions about upselling. If used right, it can absolutely improve your performance and strengthen your relationship with the customers.  The key thing that is important to upselling is whether you’re upselling a product that is relevant to the original purchase and the way you do it.  Hearing that “do you want fries with that” when you’re ordering yourself a juicy burger after going out sure does come in handy, right? ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/010Z6z9a2WdW-UqcmXjKPtHl7zX4Eqm3FYrdOmK716eWdFCZ83S83dYK9ATOuy1B_AUpcxuQVHvSCqngRGzljVaJqog8XtO-kizSsCfHFdvvAVDA9c1bCdxiA7LyXhZDlyymMhIX) But the upsells in, for example, car dealerships can be way too much for you and your budget and can really annoy customers to the point that they change their mind about the initial purchase.  In this post, I will explain what is upselling, what are the benefits, and how you can do it in ways that are not too pushy and intrusive.  ## What is upselling?  Upselling is [encouraging the customers to make an additional purchase](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/) in the original purchasing process to make the primary purchase upgraded and more expensive.  So basically, if we stick with the burger example from before, the fries are the upsell. You go to the burger place and order the burger, they ask you if you want fries, you’re hungry so you say okay.  Then they ask you if you’d want a drink with that, you realize you’re thirsty, you say yes.  And that’s how you just bought three products even though you initially wanted to purchase only the burger.  This is a simple example with a simple good, but the upselling techniques can be applied to all types of products and services and really increase the revenue of the business.  Many people confuse upselling with cross-selling which is a similar practice but there is a difference.  Cross-selling means trying to sell a completely different product to the customers that can be possibly related to the product that the customer already bought.  For example, if you are buying a phone online and you finish the purchase, next you will see related products that will try to sell you a protective glass for the model of phone you purchased.  So to sum up, upselling is trying to sell an upgrade (premium account, better version, etc) of the product in the same purchase, while cross-selling means offering a related product for additional purchase.  Both techniques are extremely valuable if used right.  ## Benefits of upselling 1. **Building deeper customer relationships**: upselling does not have to be a dirty and pushy tactic to make your customers overspend. If you do it the right way, you will be helping your customers out with adding more value to their purchases offering them a better deal. This can make them very satisfied with your business and can build loyal relationships.  2. **Revenue increase**: this is a very obvious benefit. It’s the main reason why businesses get into upselling and cross-selling. It is much harder to sell to a new customer than it is to sell to an existing customer. This means that upselling targets those customers that are already convinced that they should do a purchase from you. Upselling your existing customers is a cost-free [way to increase revenue](https://alejandrorioja.com/revenue-vs-profit/). If you engage them in the right way and explain the advantages of the upsell properly, upselling can bring a huge difference in your revenue.  3. **Better customer experience**: if your customers receive better and more targeted treatment that it’s in their best interests, they will have a better overall customer experience with your brand. In the long term, this is very valuable. Your expert opinion means something to your customers and by telling them the right way to enrich their purchases which brings them additional value, you are making sure that your relationship is getting stronger. Happy customers equal loyal customers.  4. **Returning customers**: upselling leads to increased customer lifetime value. This means that the contribution that your customer makes over time will be increasing. Upselling is a very good tactic for turning customers into highly profitable customers that return to your business when they have a need from products of that category.  Read: [Top 4 Effective Ways To Improve Your Ecommerce Conversion Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) ## How to upsell: tips and tricks  The techniques and ways in which you choose to upsell to your customers should be tailored to fit the type of business you have.  There are a lot of ways in which you can make sure that the upselling you do is done properly, and here are some tips that can help you in the process:  ### 1\. Think of your customers’ needs  Upselling is primarily done for increasing revenue, I get it. But if you want to upsell effectively and keep your customers then you have to do it right.  Doing it right means putting the needs and wishes of your customers in the first place.  This means that you have to acknowledge that your customers can differ between themselves a lot. Not all of them fit into the same upselling technique.  For instance, if you are offering some online services and you have them divided into three plans; basic, premium, and for business – It’s logical that you can’t offer the basic customers and those that are purchasing the service for whole big corporations the same upsell.  Try to see things from the perspective of the customers and think about what would be the right upsell for you if you were the customer.  This type of personalization in the upselling process can bring a lot of positive results and meet the needs of the customers properly.  Read: [How To Increase Your Adsense Revenue: Top Tips And Tricks](https://alejandrorioja.com/adsense-revenue/) ### 2\. Offer a special reward  You have to push, respectfully, towards a decision-making process. The customers already spent the time choosing the product and made the decision to start the buying process. You convinced them to do the initial purchase, and while they are in that buying mode you have to offer a good incentive to make them want to participate in the upsell process.  That is why upselling techniques are usually on the checkout screen and are trying to push customers to do an impulsive buying decision.  Offering them something special at this point might make their decision-making process much easier and make them go through with the upsell purchase.  For instance, you can offer them a 15% discount if they upgrade to a larger or newer version of a product.  This can work because they already decided to purchase something, so they might convince themselves that if they are doing the purchase they might as well make the most out of it and get the newer version.  ### 3\. Upsell after the original purchase  There are many different ways to upsell and sometimes businesses do not wait for the purchase to happen to bombard customers with upsells.  Although this might work for some businesses, generally it is not a good practice. The reason is that it can be extremely annoying and turn people off of making any purchase whatsoever if you are being too pushy.  If you are thinking about purchasing a product and you are not quite sure, upsells before you make the purchase can just make you change your mind altogether and abandon the site.  That is why upselling is best done in my opinion after the initial purchase takes place.  The customers are then in the buying mindset and already made peace with spending a certain amount of money.  If you offer something better they can have the “if I am spending $100 dollars on this, I might as well spend an additional $30 and get the better deal” mindset.  ### 4\. Do not be pushy Whatever you do, do not be pushy. This is exactly how the upsell tactics got such a bad rep- because business overused them and in a manner that’s too aggressive to customers.  You want the customers to see the upsells and to see the advantages of them, but you don’t want to be so annoying that they have a bad experience on your site.  Present the upsells at the right time and the right places. Avoid aggressive pop-ups that come up all the time.  Many online businesses are even putting the upsell under the product information so it’s there for people to see at all times.  I will mention this again because it’s important, upsell after the original purchase. There is no reason to pop up an upsell to people that are just landing on the website.  It can make people leave before even actually seeing what you’re offering.  ### 5\. Be transparent with prices  Imagine if somebody asked you to pay more of your hard-earned money for some additional benefits that are vaguely mentioned.  You could feel like somebody is trying to take advantage of you for the sake of their profit.  When you are offering an upsell to your customers, be transparent!  Give thorough information on what the added benefits are, how they can serve you, what else you can do after that, and so on.  Give a detailed price breakdown that is completely transparent with no hidden or additional costs.  If a customer knows all the details about an upsell they are much more likely to get involved.  In businesses where the price is unknown and has to be figured out, explain the criteria on which the pricing is determined, and have personal contact with the customer.  ### 6\. Use social proof  Customers trust other customers because they are on the same side of the transaction.  Find a way to provide [social proof to the customers](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-respond-to-customer-reviews-to-improve-aso-rankings/) to let them know that other people purchased the products from the upsell and liked them.  Whatever way works for you, reviews, ratings, quotes from customers, product reviews, etc. Tell customers what other products people bought with the original product, what people looked at, recommendations, etc.  These things will only further reassure customers to follow through with the upsell purchases.  ## Bottom line Upselling can be a great thing for your business and not only for the possible increase in revenues.  The bigger picture here is that you can earn the loyalty of your customers by offering them a bigger value at a good price.  Happy customers are loyal customers.  Remember to use the upsell in the right place and at the right time. And learn when to stop pushing with the upsell.  In the end, you have to figure out what works for you specifically and combine those practices until you have the perfect results. If you found this post helpful and want to learn how to make your business even more successful check these other posts:  - [All you need to know about CPA marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-cpa-marketing/)  - [Here’s how you should do relationship marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/) - [How to Respond to Customer Reviews to Improve ASO Rankings](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-respond-to-customer-reviews-to-improve-aso-rankings/) Have you tried upselling? Leave a comment letting me know what was your experience with it. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top Amazon Competitors: Who is Bezos Against? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-amazon-competitors/ Published: 2020-07-14 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: Amazon Fresh is a grocery delivery service that sells more than 300 brands under Whole Foods. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. You must be living under a rock if you’ve never heard of Amazon. Amazon is a giant, multinational conglomerate company that paved the way for online retail shopping back in 1994. It is one of the first in the industry and is still relevant to this day. In fact, in terms of revenue, Amazon is the biggest e-commerce company and is the second-largest private employer in the States. So what were Amazon’s roots? How did it become the great giant it is today? Amazon is an American tech company founded by Jeff Bezos in Bellevue, Washington, back in July 1994. By 2015, Amazon became the most esteemed retailer in America.  In the early days of the platform, Amazon expanded into a physical store by purchasing Whole Foods Market Inc. Then by 2018, Amazon Prime, its delivery service, acquired more than 100 million subscribers across the globe.  So, in my opinion, what must have made Amazon a leading-edge company is its riding with the trends and willingness to take risks. From its modest beginnings in 1994, Amazon never stopped expanding. It was an online marketplace, and then the company opened a physical shop, a delivery service, and now even the distribution of videos, music, and audiobooks. We have established that [Amazon is a corporate giant](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/). However, the company does have competitors that are not that far behind them. Amazon has to keep being innovative if it does not want competitors to surpass its success.  ## Amazon services At first, Amazon was a venue for buying and selling books. Eventually, Bezos expanded the company to cater to food, gadgets, video games, clothes, furniture, toys, and the like. Today, Amazon corporation has a long list of offered products and services. These services include: ### 1\. **Consumer items** Amazon’s online and physical store retail goods include books, CDs, electronics, toys, home supplies, food, etc.  ### 2\. **Kindle** Kindle is Amazon’s e-reader, with millions of books available to buy at its Kindle store.  ### 3\. **Amazon prime** Prime is a delivery service for Amazon customers.  ### 4\. **Amazon app-store** The Amazon app store is available for android users to do their online shopping.  ### **5\. Prime music** Amazon’s Prime Music is a music streaming platform that offers a library of free songs to its Amazon Prime subscribers.  ### 6\. **Prime video** Amazon’s Prime Video is an online venue for purchasing movies and TV shows.  ### 7\. **Amazon fresh** Amazon Fresh is a grocery delivery service that sells more than 300 brands under Whole Foods. ### 8\. **Amazon drive** Amazon Drive is a cloud service for streaming and syncing files and videos.  ### 9\. **Amazon Smile** Amazon Smile is a platform for charity donations.  ### 10\. **Amazon marketing services** Amazon marketing services is Amazon’s platform for business advertising.  ## Amazon revenues Amazon is one of the world’s top corporations in terms of its market value. As of December 2019, Amazon reached a market capacity of more than 800 billion dollars and 87.44 billion in revenue. Its retail market remains Amazon’s main source of revenue, with both its online and brick-and-mortar stores seeing its biggest share.  Moreover, Amazon Advertising Services is one of its [fastest-growing businesses](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-start-amazon-fba-store/). Its cloud service is not lagging too far behind. According to [Business Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-earnings-aws-amazon-web-services-10-billion-quarterly-revenue-2020-4), Amazon’s cloud business alone, Amazon Drive, made over 10 billion dollars in net quarterly sales during this year’s first quarter. The amount was a whopping 33% higher than last year’s recorded revenue.  ## Amazon’s key strengths & weaknesses Now before we tackle Amazon’s competitors in different fields, we must look at what makes Amazon so great and not so great. In doing so, we get a better picture of why it’s so successful, but at the same time, what areas Amazon may fall short with its competitors. Amazon’s edge is definitely in the following areas: 1. It’s a strong brand 2. Amazon expands and diversifies its business 3. Amazon provides out of this world user experience (especially in terms of speed and capacity) 4. It also provides a large selection and thousands of third party sellers 5. Amazon’s low-cost structure and innovation However, Amazon needs to improve in terms of: 1. Limited physical stores 2. Its business model is easy to imitate 3. Brand image damage due to tax controversies 4. Customer’s preference for direct-to-consumer selling 5. Increasing giant competitors ## Amazon’s internet commerce competitors Now, finally, we will be tackling the meat of this article, Amazon’s competitors. We will start with its contender in the e-commerce industry. ### 1\. eBay ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/QVN3Ziv1aXe2IlfNrWRtA-gfPSzRq2tPphnmNAelV75b8-Hjz-U0dyt6K-9uxEbERAQOHoP-VpYKmU7bPaeZYPPAgCz896x0YZ-NUUWMjfHvafTIzwLmSp5yj17o74eig_lh1LOy) Much like Amazon, eBay is an online platform for buying and selling a wide range of products. eBay then gets commissions from the seller product listings. It was created in California by Pierre Omidyar in 1995. In 1998, eBay went public and instantly became a huge success.  Last 2018, eBay was noted to have more than 180 million active consumers and 1.4 billion product listings. Consequently, its net revenue skyrocketed to more than 10 billion dollars. Today, it is one of the top eCommerce retail companies with a market share of 7.2%. The company strives to continually become bigger and better. It even launched a mobile application that has seen almost 500 million downloads last year.  We cannot deny that Amazon has perks over eBay. Amazon is larger and more well-known. Amazon listing also allows customers to buy products directly from the website as sellers can have their items stored at the Amazon warehouse, making it readily available. Moreover, Amazon deposits income directly to the seller’s bank account. In contrast, eBay uses PayPal.  Despite these points, eBay is still very much a strong competitor for the most part. We have to take note of the fact that eBay has made selling on their site easier by using a simple structure for fee calculations of sold products. In comparison, Amazon’s fee calculations are more complicated, with plenty of different variables. Moreover, since streamlining their fees, eBay has made selling more straightforward. In contrast, Amazon is more challenging to navigate and can undoubtedly be confusing.  Aside from this, eBay has improved its website efficiency for sellers by starting a Valet Service. Through this service, eBay employees can list and sell the independent seller’s items for them. eBay also allows more customized listings. Sellers get to be playful and creative with the ability to construct colorful and witty ads within their listings.  Finally, it is easier to get paid through eBay. With Amazon, there are multiple steps, which include signing up for a professional account, inputting account information, and completing tax identity information. For eBay, all you have to do is have an eBay account, and you can instantly start selling.  Relevant: [Amazon or Shopify? Which one should you choose for your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) ### 2\. Etsy ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/9rLhQ7BR0ujAYZJHLf2ES7XrjWoxZwjiD6Jbjvrb-M-htm059rTR6OkOTgaQfwIuxgAKwXDk4TtNGD4c8bl4TnMQfrn7pByqSlVgvBQEUGB3L-C95JoVQVZk9V81RmV87wCnjVcc) [Etsy is an eCommerce market](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/) with a niche for craft and vintage products. Founders created Etsy in 2005 in New York City. Etsy grew since then with numerous offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, and with almost a thousand employees. Consequently, the company generated net revenue of 603.7 million dollars last 2018. Moreover, Etsy has a rapidly growing mobile application user count. Its application generated more than 50% of its gross merchandise volume.  Etsy generates its revenues from sale transaction commissions, seller services, as well as processor fees of third-party payment. Etsy’s website has more than 60 million products, the majority of which are from independent sellers, and more than 42 million active buyers. Thus, Amazon, as a powerhouse in the e-commerce industry, has been trying to squash Etsy the past few years. Some of these efforts include Amazon launching a handmade-products market in 2015 with items in 10 categories.  Moreover, Amazon also created the Amazon Handmade Gift Shop last 2017. In the same year, Amazon offered last-minute deliveries of handmade goods purchased as late as Christmas Eve. Despite Amazon’s efforts, Etsy was able to hold its own fort against this giant.  So how did Etsy do it? I have five points to present. First and foremost, Etsy is known for its niche. It has been catering to its market for more than ten years now.  Secondly, Etsy actively tries to provide a platform for a variety of users. Aside from its niche customers, buyers looking for something specific to Etsy, it also caters to small-scale merchants. As a result, active sellers continue to rise for Etsy.  Next, Etsy chooses to make the customer experience simpler. It only has small, specific departments to choose from, the majority of which are handmade goods and crafts. In contrast, Amazon has more than 20 categories. Finally, sellers simply prefer Etsy. Why would it not be when it immediately releases payments to the seller, unlike Amazon, which waits until the seller has shipped the item.  The cost of running Etsy is also relatively lower compared to Amazon’s 40 dollars per month. Etsy has no membership fees, after all.  Etsy only charges a small amount per item once the seller has reached their first 40 listings. Moreover, Etsy allows sellers to promote their other sites and business platforms. Thus, Etsy seems to be here to stay and dominate the e-commerce artisan and craft industry.  ### 3\. Wayfair Inc. (W) ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/NJSzHG7c4y8Jp56g9go1xG32V6xDP_moZy2Fy7BJwJkd7prJeRQympZjLXfi-lgh6jnZSqNUwH4Lv-HrgX_uW6L9wJHI-sDla8rUY82AiiaLTgHNYD1hxoKT-YWscKVKpnQ4u7Pt) Wayfair Inc. is an e-Commerce company known for selling furniture and homewares since its launch in 2002. Its entry as an e-Commerce company with a niche for furniture was equal parts bold, interesting, and risky.  The consumers loved it.  In the past years, Wayfair stocks have continued to go up by 150%.  Amazon felt threatened by this, and much like with Etsy, it decided to try and crush the company.  Recently, Amazon has been giving attention to the home goods department. The company launched private-label furniture brands such as  Rivet and Stone & Beams. However, Wayfair will not let itself get overtaken by this giant.  [Business Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-wayfair-furniture-shopping-2019-1) made a comparison on purchasing furniture from Amazon and Wayfair, specifically futons. They found out that, although Amazon has a better website overall with extra perks for Prime members and a variety of cheaper products, Wayfair takes the cake for simpler and more organized customer experience.  Also, Wayfair Inc. makes online furniture buying revolutionary, uncomplicated, and convenient. People want to buy in physical stores because they want to see and feel the furniture. The engineering teams at Wayfair have created vast avenues to simulate this interactive shopping experience for customers.  Wayfair Inc. constructed a well-organized and detailed product category page, which includes filters like size, color, material, style, and price. Because the company was able to comprehensively digitalize the minute details of every product, Wayfair has seen tremendous success and customer satisfaction. The company only has a measly 5% return rate, amazing really for a furniture company.  Wayfair’s creativity and genius do not stop there. The company even created “Idea Boards.” Similar to Pinterest, consumers can tag items they like on the Wayfair catalogs. They also get to view the aesthetic compatibility of the furniture they like in their Idea Boards.  ## Amazon’s international competitors Amazon also has giant competitors across the globe. Predominantly, these competitors hail from China, India and Japan.  ### 1\. Alibaba  ![](/images/posts/inline/c55d466c-library_logos_alibabaev_large.png) Alibaba Group Holding Limited is a multinational conglomerate Chinese giant technological company founded in April 1999. Alibaba was founded in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, by Jack Ma. As a company, it specializes in technology, retail, and e-Commerce. Moreover, it provides the following services: 1. Electronic payment services 2. Shopping search engines 3. Cloud services 4. Business-to-business, consumer-to-consumer and business-to-consumer sales services Much like eBay, Alibaba acts as an interceder between consumers and vendors online, as well as facilitates the sale of products between the two said parties using a large-scale network of websites. Last 2019, Alibaba reached a revenue of 56 billion US dollars and 7.4 billion US dollars in net income. Alibaba is debatably Amazon’s biggest e-commerce threat. Amazon is to the US as Alibaba is to China. Alibaba is a titan in China and is its most well-known e-Commerce company. However, unlike Amazon, which works as a single unit, Alibaba can be subdivided into three core businesses, these are Alibaba, Taobao, and Tmall. Alibaba, Taobao, and Tmall provide a platform for multiple types of buyers and sellers to transact goods, which makes Alibaba one of, if not the largest, middle man in the e-Commerce industry of China. It does so, too, with remarkably affordable prices. As a consequence, Taobao’s sales alone make up more than 80% of all online purchases in China. Today, we are seeing the effects of Alibaba’s one of a kind, outstanding business model. Its eCommerce units have a supremely higher operating margin, a far less capital intensive model with a lighter supporting infrastructure. Furthermore, with such a system, Alibaba can give consumers a greater variety of choices than Amazon because it can hold and list more items. The company’s expansion into brand new niches is quick and easy, without the necessity to build up infrastructure. As a consequence, this creates whopping returns and a higher ROIC.  Other international competitors include: 1. Otto 2. JD 3. Flipkart 4. Rakuten  5. Newegg Also Read: [A list of some of the best ecommerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) ## Amazon’s physical store competitors Amazon’s most sizable threats right now are multinational brick-and-mortar corporations. Namely, Costco and Walmart. ### 1\. Costco ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qZ3aWo_3tB4vDTokx5Nxss1HFWxqCwftQKMEL_cPFE5vVQ9WF8wOhgtcvfSs9dP1ym9nmPsLoR79lgdSnHUVCUXrCWF8-t0P-XmcMAlZAHSqlgBbHa7cMktMs5CIYKmR5zb3IjTo) Costco Wholesale Corporation, “Costco,” is an American multinational corporation that handles membership-only warehouses across the States. Costco was founded by James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotaman in 1976 and has garnered huge success ever since.  Last 2015, Costco was the second only to Walmart as the largest retailer in the world. As for its eCommerce division, Costco has seen a more than 25% surge in sales during the last quarter. Its eCommerce loyalty reward programs are one of the keys to this sales growth.  Amazon provides all the goods and services you would want. Plus dozens, if not hundreds, of brands given a product. On the other hand, Costco’s warehouses have limited goods and cater to a few brands. Still, Costco is one of the largest and most successful retail companies in the world, with almost 800 locations, 250,000 employees, a net income of 3.66 billion dollars, and a revenue of 152.7 billion dollars last 2019. This data makes Costco one of Amazon’s significant threats in the retail industry.  According to [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/panosmourdoukoutas/2019/07/27/costco-beats-amazon-and-walmart/#149c5aed74db), Costco has even been beating Amazon and Walmart. So how does Costco do it? Well, in contrast to most retailers marking up 25 to 50%, Costco only marks up at 11-14% for outside brands and 11-15% for its in-house brand, Kirkland. However, Costco makes up for this with its membership program. Last 2018, more than 50 million people purchased a Costco membership, some paying the typical 60 dollar fee while others paid 120 dollars for an executive membership.  As a result, membership fees generated more than 3 billion dollars in revenue. Also, because of the membership fees, people spend more to make the cost more “worth it.” Costco’s system is super efficient since they stock fewer items and in larger package quantities. Moreover, fewer stocks and brands result in improved operational efficiency. Larger package quantities are also something customers love as they do not need to go back to the store every week.  Aside from all of these, Costco’s employees are one of the happiest, way happier than Amazon for sure.  Costco’s employees are paid an average of 20 dollars an hour in contrast to the average retail employee getting paid 10-12 dollars an hour. In addition to better pay, 90% of Costco employees receive health insurance. As a consequence, Costco has better, happier, and more loyal employees.  Aside from dedicated employees, Costco’s customers are also steadfast. 90% of their members renew every year. Since Costco puts its employees and customers first, it is a leading-edge company, a powerhouse in its field.  ### 2\. Walmart ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Dg0pZaC-pLK6Db8tTAEiTygWwlZaM6t1RUh1XPBai0cDVRcWKrp09T1ws1AU4ZPQjRq2BYFsImyk0UGyYTMUx2Mug33Xi-cI1Ox4FoWyLWX2Q_hzWrSBeKxJ9LEmTh8vgk-fshVK) Walmart Inc. is an American multinational corporation that deals with retail, mainly the company owns chains of supermarkets and department stores. The company also owns Sam’s Club, which is a retail warehouse. Sam Walton founded Walmart in 1962.  Today, Walmart has more than 11,000 stores and commercial warehouses in more than 27 countries. Walmart is Amazon’s biggest competitor in terms of revenue. Walmart beat Amazon with a whopping 500 billion dollars in revenue last 2019, making it the biggest retailer in the States.  Walmart vs. Amazon is a clash of titans. So how are they faring against each other? Well, while Walmart commands the physical stores, Amazon is the giant in eCommerce. It is safe to say that Amazon lags behind Walmart in terms of physical footprints as Amazon only has 481 Whole Foods Market stores. Moreover, Walmart now provides free, one-day shipping to 75% of the US. Consumers can also pick-up their products at one of the company’s many, easily accessible stores.  Walmart also acquired retail internet companies like Moosejaw, Jet, and Shoes.com to make itself a presence in the eCommerce industry. However, some of these choices were not so good, and Walmart has started retracting investments. Also, one of Amazon’s edges over Walmart is its loyalty programs, which the former does not have. However, Walmart is trying to compete with Amazon’s unlimited delivery service and mature media business. Walmart also has 270 billion revenue in groceries compared to Amazon’s 20 billion last year.  Other industry giants: 1. Target 2. Best Buy 3. Apple 4. Macy’s 5. The Home Depot ## Final thoughts We have seen that what makes Amazon so great is its continuous strive to innovate and to cater to different fields and services.  However, what makes its competitors close in the race is its ability to cater to specific niches and their ability to satisfy their consumers and employees.  We must strive to be different and courageous, to add a sure branding and flavor, and to acquire loyalty to stay abreast and relevant in the ever-changing times.  If you want to read more starting an ecommerce business,  check out the following: - [Starting your eCommerce business](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) - [Here’s how you can improve your eCommerce conversion rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) - [Cost Leadership Strategy for your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/) If you enjoyed this article, please do share this post! Also, comment below what other e-commerce company you want me to write about next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Is Green Marketing And How To Do It? [Benefits & Tips] Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-green-marketing/ Published: 2020-07-14 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: Marketing, SEO ## Table of contents We are all more or less aware of the impact that our lives and work have on the planet that we’re living on.  > Our increasing carbon footprint, usage of plastics, fossil fuels, cutting down trees, eating, and poaching animals are bringing the earth closer to the no-return point.  Climate change is real and the damage that we as societies do is the biggest reason for it.  That is why lately, more and more people are choosing sustainable products, and with that, an increased number of businesses are trying to offer sustainability.  According to a [study](https://saiplatform.org/uploads/Modules/Library/WBCSD_Sustainable_Consumption_web.pdf), it is obvious that the consumers’ values and ideals are shifting towards being more sustainable and responsible in their purchasing decisions. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ex-lk6FKRZGXm2UGcxz45Jmbudd2LXQ6GdiymgC3WeluaJQBpXfUl0kYBFJ-NSmhYLEJNwDDisW28F0FvhNurxvIOiaDkKCNobgaPTifoKHPHQrK96oSO0Tep1YfiZxSlLPSoWvu) A high percentage of people are more likely to purchase products from businesses that have a good reputation for environmental sustainability.  With that, comes the fact that increasingly people are influenced by green marketing.  In this article, I will explain what green marketing is, what are the benefits of using it, and possible strategies that you can implement to incorporate it into your business.  Here’s a great example of how huge brands are moving towards green marketing. ## What is green marketing? Green marketing is marketing based on the environmental benefits of the products.  In simple words, it is used to promote the products by highlighting their sustainability It can also be found in some places as “eco-marketing”, but it means the same thing as green marketing.  Since one of the biggest trends in recent years is to support environmental health, a substantial number of people are changing the way they live and purchase.  Because of this, companies create appropriate strategies that address social responsibility and target people who prefer eco-friendly products. There can be many different things involved in green marketing like:  1. Creation of eco-friendly products 2. Packing your products in sustainable ways 3. Using business practices that are sustainable  4. Promoting the green benefits of your existing products 5. Using recycled materials in production  6. Using green energy  7. Reducing production waste  8. Using eco-friendly methods 9. Buying or selling locally, reducing transportation energy  10. Reducing packaging  11. Making reusable or recyclable products  Overall, green marketing can prove to be more costly, but it can certainly be much more profitable since the demand for these types of products is peaking.   The goals of using green marketing include implementing sustainable practices in the business, and with that demonstrating social responsibility. Also, this reduces expenses for transportation, packaging, energy usage, etc.  ## What is Greenwashing? Since the possibilities for profiting off of sustainable products and practices is quite high, and the implementation of those can be quite expensive, many businesses try to take a shortcut.  They try to capitalize on green consumers by using green marketing to sell products that are not in fact considered to be green, and this is called Greenwashing.  These businesses try to position their products as environmentally-friendly when they are in fact not.  A simple example of this is using the color green to their advantage. Colors have a big impact on purchasing decisions since we have some perceptions of them in our minds.  Many businesses use the color green for their packaging and add the word green somewhere on it which doesn’t exactly mean that it is Eco-friendly, but many people feel like it is and purchase it anyway.  Greenwashing is misleading and can easily cost the business its reputation. That is why customers are increasingly checking the packaging for additional certifications to make sure that the product really is sustainable.  ## Benefits of Green marketing  ![](/images/posts/inline/2a97fbf0-getty_162897095_970647970450057_48919.jpg) There are quite a lot of benefits that green marketing brings to businesses both internally and externally.  ### Internal benefits of green marketing 1. It helps boost sales  2. It helps companies to reduce their operating and production costs 3. It lowers the energy usage  4. These companies are more attractive to potential employees that want to make a change for the better  5. More opportunities for entering foreign markets  6. Increased chances for entering premium segments and further expansion  ### External benefits of green marketing  1. Better [image of the company](https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/) in the society  2. Promoting renewal of products and their improvement  3. Forming friendly relations with public organizations and government bodies  4. Chance to advertise the company as a green company 5. Creating brand preference  6. Creating customer loyalty  7. Contributing towards sustainability in their country  ## Green marketing strategies  ![](/images/posts/inline/0f9c1cc0-green-marketing.jpg) As I previously mentioned, greenwashing is not a good idea. With that in mind, these strategies are for companies that are truly willing to [make a sustainable effort](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) and truly care about their customers and the state of our only home – Earth.  ### 1\. Green design  Green design is not just about the colors and slapping a recyclable sign on it – and voila!  It’s about being true to whatever you’re claiming to your customers through the packaging.  For that purpose, the first step towards having a green design is actually having a green product. In cases where this is true, there would be no need for any greenwashing whatsoever, and the good reputation of your brand will only become stronger.  When you are designing the product you have to have in mind sustainability throughout the whole process of production.  You have to pay attention to where the materials come from, how are the workers involved in the process, how are they treated, how much waste is generated, how much energy and water is wasted, how will the products be packed and transported, what will happen with the used products and million other questions.  If you are doing green marketing, you have to do it right or not at all.  There is a lot to consider for sure, and it might be quite expensive to get this going but if you do it right it will be profitable for sure. ### 2\. Practice transparency  If you want your customers to be loyal, especially when sustainability is very important to them, you have to be fully transparent even when things go wrong.  1. **Provide access**: make sure that your customers can find the exact details of your products and practices and reports on progress 2. **Standards**: use global standards and framework measures and reports such as ISO, United Nations Environment Program, and other global groups.  3. **Radical transparency**: disclosing as much as you possibly can with your customers will score you big points in their eyes 4. **Tell the bad news too:** customers really hate it when companies are hiding information from them. They trust you, trust them too by disclosing the not so good information too 5. **Report**: do regular reporting on sustainability for updating the customers, shareholders on the progress ### 3\. Fair pricing Customers expect to pay more for products that are sustainable due to the fact that the costs for producing them are higher, and the wages are fair. Putting a [higher price on products](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/) that are minimally sustainable is failing your customers and it will have consequences on your reputation and profits.  A lot of businesses figure that if the price is higher then it will make customers believe that the product is sustainable by default.  This is also greenwashing  If your products cost more than other non-sustainable options, you want to communicate the specifics with your customers.  The greater the benefits that your product has, the greater opportunity for you to be exposed as a good business with sustainable products.  In a way, if you provide evidence of how sustainable your products are specifically, it will both make customers trust you and be excellent marketing material for your company.  ### 4\. Responsible consumption  Designing products that are sustainable is one part of the equation. If they have short life-cycles they should include tips for customers how to responsibly use them and dispose of them after usage. According to Cone Communications, about 90% of consumers agree that the responsibility for proper usage and disposal of products falls on their back.  85% think that there is a corporate role in providing information on how they can properly use the products, and dispose of them after their life-cycle.  It is your responsibility to write the needed information for proper usage and disposal of the products on the label in the first place.  The label is the first place where customers look for these types of information.  You can always try to be creative with it and invite customers on your website to read how to properly care for the products, inform them through newsletters, etc.  Find [what works for your audience](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/), but be informative at all times.  ### 5\. Be ethical  Back in 2015, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) found out that the well-known car manufacturer Volkswagen installed a “defeat device” in its vehicles. The reason for that was so they could cheat on tests about emissions.  This [cost the company $18.28 billion](https://www.wsj.com/articles/volkswagen-posts-deep-loss-after-taking-18-28-billion-hit-on-emissions-scandal-1461333307), and what’s more important is lost trust in the brand from the consumers’ side.  Greenwashing and unethical practices are for sure less costly, much quicker, and very convenient.  But in the long run, they might cost the business a lot more among which the hard-earned reputation of the brand.  That is why you should always take the high road by implementing green marketing strategies that are truthful and would really benefit your customers and your business.  Relevant: [10 marketing books you should read right now](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/) ## Wrapping up! Being a genuinely sustainable company can open your way towards big opportunities that can take your business to the next level.  I’m talking higher sales, winning leads, and creating a culture that will attract new customers and make them loyal to your brand.  If there is one thing that you will take away from this post, let it be the following:  *Either do it the right way, or don’t do it at all.*  First make sure that your business and products are truly sustainable, before making any claims or promises to your customers.  There is no going back from the damage caused by greenwashing. Learned a thing or two? Check out these other posts for more helpful content:  - [All you need to know about SERP](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-serp/)  - [Your guide to scheduling Instagram posts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-schedule-instagram-posts/)  - [Learn copywriting with these great examples](https://alejandrorioja.com/15-examples-of-great-copywriting/)  Want to learn any other important aspect of marketing? Leave a comment below and let me know! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top 15 Examples Of Great Copywriting And How To Do It Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/15-examples-of-great-copywriting/ Published: 2020-07-13 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Advertising (SEM), SEO TL;DR: I sometimes use this myself, as the name suggests, this is the optimization of words so that the search engine (Google) can easily detect and identify the words that are most search in the web 3. ## Table of contents There are times when I want to write more but I just can’t. Do you know what I mean? You got engaged in reading all of my posts because I believe what I write is entertaining, enticing, and informative. But even I experience writer’s block now and then. Let me tell you this, it’s really frustrating!  To get away from my writer’s block hits, I go online and read some of the most mind-blowing copywriters I’ve encountered and in just a few minutes or hours (if I enjoy myself), words start filling my mind and onto my laptop, I go to get started with my writing. ## What is copywriting? Copywriting is rearranging words to make things sell better. It is the art of creatively mixing and publishing advertising words that when read, the audience will surely engage with the writer and the product being sold. It is memorable because its play on words is timely, controversial, and unique. And the best part of this is copywriting leaves a great impression.  ## The best copywriting examples ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HsBLtuWgBz7lzBtbam4C0zdKnC2ugY6_z-B-gnv2dlFWLeNHWrldCgzw0tbi7QRaiK8mnTYZK-iq1cJF0dcpfIl0lfVbYoVNIuPMDnY45aEIS9EimrcbWQs_BHwXDVE1alE_OXvA) Reading and enjoying copywriting examples is one of the brilliant ways to learn how to write copy. Just a tip, understand the reason behind each copywriter’s choice of words. There are different types of copywriting that you can master, let’s define each type: 1. **Sales** – This is the most obvious kind of copywriting, you can see it on advertisements online and in print 2. **SEO (Search Engine Optimization)-** This is very famous for businesses. I sometimes use this myself, as the name suggests, this is the optimization of words so that the search engine (Google) can easily detect and identify the words that are most search in the web 3. **Web content**– This is where I fit in. Web content is the blood of the internet, this is where readers are engaged, inspired, and informed.  4. **Technical**– This is a different kind of copywriting because this promotes company findings and necessitates in-depth knowledge of the product. 5. **Creative-** This kind of copywriting is mostly found in commercials and jingles. You have to think about the buyers and think of what they would like to hear and enjoy 6. **PR –**  PR copywriting is mostly found in press releases, official statements, and the like. PR is used widely by companies and organizations to portray themselves better. To help you improve your writing skills and be equipped with copywriting skills, I will share with you 15 copywriting examples that will surely end your writer’s block. This list is my collection of tried and tested examples that inspire me every time.  Relevant: [Learn all about integrated marketing communication](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/) ### 1\. Drink an orange- Sunkist ![](/images/posts/inline/daeba3c4-picture3.0.jpg) Albert Lankser, a genius advertiser, was hired by the then-budding company, Sunkist. He coined the term, “Drink an Orange” when he had an idea of extracting the oranges of Sunkist and making it into an everyday drink. This phrase paved the way for Sunkist’s rise to stardom.  What I like about this line is it’s neat and simple but the message is very clear. If I was in that early era, hearing that ad would definitely make me want to try their new orange juice product because I haven’t tasted orange in a drink.  ### 2\. Opt-in email On the Hustle’s page ![](/images/posts/inline/a61ec0d7-screenshot-thehustle.co-2020.07.13-12_39_08.png) It is a hassle every time I have to exit the pop-up messages on websites wherein they ask me to [subscribe to their daily email](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) article and updates on their products and services. The Hustle knows our dilemma, I bet even the people behind The Hustle hate that bugging pop-up, that’s why they created this genius way of making us want it. Their line says, “ *Your smart, good looking friend that sends you an email each morning with all the tech and business news you need to know for the day.”* The Hustle’s message is basically the same as the default opt-in that I encounter in my usual web searching. Why does it look different and enticing? Here’s why:  1. Conversational copy- the mere statement made the whole image of the page trustworthy. It’s like a “real” friend talking to me on my laptop.  2. Humorous idea- below that opt-in statement is another statement that made me laugh, “sign up aboard and join us in our growing pirate ship”. The last line “pirate ship” really made up for the red-flagged first words “sign up”. It just sounds fun.  3. In the now- The way these words were put together is just trendy and you know that we are in for the latest tech.  ### 3\. The ad tease of Corvette ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2LzBFmQcExS4TnxMcVyTqDuotbbzFGALNQ8Ul47kLw3AooB65Q_NI0yBkS7BEvaggAZJfrIyRlxjrBxVYgjFVAEeumFEuqkVIDMj5GmI6aOBznpAPrJmxsYNHY9pKkzOPE5nQ6hM) “They don’t write songs about Volvos”- a line that made me smirk but it is true. This is the advertisement for Corvette. Customers truly love this line because it will make you think and realize that “yeah, that’s right. They don’t write songs about Volvos” that’s when it will hit you, their copywriter is good!  You can always choose to add a little spice to your copywriting it’s just a matter of playing with words. ### 4\. Basecamp’s got your back ![](/images/posts/inline/ad3a8a41-screenshot-basecamp.com-2020.07.13-12_41_52.png) I think the best way to attract clients and customers is by letting them know that you empathize with them, you are definitely just like them.  Basecamp has been famous for using these kinds of emphatic copywriters in their website and copy that uses PAS: [Problem, Agitation, Solution.](https://thecopybot.com/potent-little-sales-formula/) I think Basecamp was able to reach out to us as audiences. They picked real-life problems and proposed a solution with their product in it. Isn’t that awesome?  ### 5\. Innocent Drink’s advanced thinking ![](/images/posts/inline/2b50dc9a-662c9943f7ca70095c774223652d0060.jpg) I like to think that to become a killer copywriter, you have to think ahead of your readers. You have to think of loopholes that bashers will look for and you have to find solutions for this as soon as possible. The Innocent Drink has started with a clear description of their products. No sweet and decorative words just straight to the point description. There are no doors or windows for any objections which makes it a great copy.  ### 6\. Harry’s new idea ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/vGq30XlptL_pwR7Ujo_7rqXPiAYTQywBTD9exdpil0UeJt1iw8-DyOvqgQrZqBGL8zmiPJAnLrQbA6x_2gvsG8yeyiWTSqJU0h0gte1YejSCSRHjxrf4O1mmrocVRaKNsL--dG7A) What attracts me as a consumer is the freshness and uniqueness of the product. Like in this advertisement where you can subscribe to a shave plan. Have you heard of that before? I haven’t. It got the right amount of uniqueness and brilliance, a combination of great copywriting.  Sometimes when I see something new to my eye, I know that people will start falling in line to try it. Wouldn’t you?  ### 7\. Apple’s marketing poems ![](/images/posts/inline/f1fd1212-2-broken-sentences.jpg) Rhythm and rhyme make everything look smooth and parallel just like Apple’s copywriters who are great poets. They were able to devise words and phrases that are rhyming and fluid and it ends up into a perfect persuasive copy that made you and me run to the nearest Apple store to buy a new iPhone.  ### 8\. Nike’s celebratory tagline ![](/images/posts/inline/15c5fbeb-kap.png) When the famous footwear celebrated the 30th year of Just Do It (a personal favorite of mine), they did it with a win that resulted in a whopping $6 billion in market value. The [expensive tag](https://www.forbes.com/sites/willburns/2018/09/04/with-new-kaepernick-ad-what-does-nike-believe-in/#4d4e3b1f1081)? “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” Good, right?  ### 9\. KFC’s FCK ![](/images/posts/inline/d256f162-0-1.jpg) Turning a mishap into an advantage is a talent and thus, KFC’s copywriters are a talented bunch. Do you agree with me? The idea is admitting to the mistake and making a light feel into it, it turned the situation around and the audience made fun out of this witty and edgy statement. It’s not every day this works, so let me give you ideas to make it work:  1. The situation is already handled 2. Make sure that you know how to take the situation lightly 3. Genuine admission and apology ### 10\. Does she or does she not?  ![](/images/posts/inline/aae79eac-c5915b5885908854f380520a11f9eb7e.jpg) For businesses that sell beauty products, it makes you sell more if you make people wonder if the customer really did use your product. That’s what happened with Miss Clairol’s hair coloring. Having your hair color without anyone knowing the truth that it’s all Miss Clairol’s magic. This kind of copywriting has great selling points.  Also Read: [10 best marketing books to read](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/) ### 11\. Squarespace’s risk-free trial ![](/images/posts/inline/a0fc47fe-screenshot-www.squarespace.com-2020.07.13-14_01_47.png) What people really love about this copy is its free trial. I love anything free without any hassle, [like their landing page](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/) “ no credit card required”. You can try it without any commitment, you can check out the content and if you like what you experienced then you can subscribe to it.  ### 12\. Baron Fig’s tool for thinkers ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/7RtfPNOt19iNNkmZWYHna5cLiySSxiuiw2gZ6swdeJCMKJraHMo56tklShy0ml_uZxRN_WGMrMS9D-XJtiWj0TjJajxgg3ZS1LmgMU6v8dRYSmO77K_5A3uU_5jIlSbUsfhOK_Cc) Humor is the way to go for this online business. Baron Fig’s Our Story Page is a short line phrase that says, “We make tools for thinkers. If you have thoughts, you’re a thinker”. There is humor and persuasion in this copy.   All people have thoughts, who doesn’t? This will make you purchase their notebooks.  ### 13\. Hiut’s Denim do one thing well slogan ![](/images/posts/inline/a1756039-k6xkngra7_copywritingexample6.png) Hiut’s Denim one-liner slogan describes their passion for doing and perfecting denim.  You can opt to do that, simple and clean slogans that will show and express the hard work you’ve been putting into your work.  ### 14\. No match for the Lion Matches ad ![](/images/posts/inline/6981965f-screenshot-www.lionmatch.co_.za-2020.07.13-14_08_00.png) Matches are a necessity that are sometimes overlooked, but how did Lion sell it to hundreds of people? By creating a vintage ad, and incorporating some great killer copywriting! Voila! No match for this advertisement. ### 15\. British Airways’ look up campaign ![](/images/posts/inline/6387dce6-lookup.jpg) This last example is a different one, the previous ones are more into texts, magazines this last one is [about digital copywriting](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/). With a billboard near the airport, British Airways had the perfect plan for an awesome campaign. It is a video with a child looking up (as the name suggests) and every time a British Airways’ plane flies above the billboard, all flight details are posted to attract customers.  You can watch the campaign here. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?time\_continue=26&v=GtJx\_pZjvzc&feature=emb\_logo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=26&v=GtJx_pZjvzc&feature=emb_logo) ## Tips for effective copywriting After these  15 interesting copywriting examples, I’m sure you must be excited to get back to work and start writing.  But before you do that, let me give you tips for effective copywriting that will help you improve even more.  ### Language is powerful Being an effective copywriter means having the power to affect a lot of people. I say this because as writers, reporters, and bloggers we play perfectly into our audience’s emotions. There are thousands of blogs that get posted on the web every day, and your post will be one of them.  Choose your words carefully and create content that engages people.  ### Be concise Keep it short. Keep it simple. Keep it clean.  ### Re-read the draft Copywriters go by the rule: “Never post the first draft”. Keep that in mind. Look for the perfect tool to assist you in becoming an effective copywriter. Copywriting takes more than just skills, it is also about passion and creativity. Words have power and they stay with the readers for a long time. This is exactly what you always aim for – for readers to remember your words Like all the examples mentioned above, great words of copywriters live forever. Loved this post? Check out more articles to know more on copywriting:  - [All you need to know about SERP](https://alejandrorioja.com/%e4%bd%95%e3%81%8c%e3%82%bb%e3%83%ab3%83%97%81%a7%e3%81%82%82%8b%e3%81%81%81%81%81%8b/) - [10 Secret SEO Tricks for 2020](https://flux.la/hidden-seo-tricks/) - [Pillar content – what is it and how to write it?](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Do CPA Marketing: The Complete Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-cpa-marketing/ Published: 2020-07-13 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Let’s imagine, for instance, that the affiliate is a fitness influencer, the network is Instagram, and the business is a company that produces fitness clothing. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. When it comes to having a successful business, marketing is somewhere on the top on the list of things you absolutely have to put your efforts in.  Marketing can make miracles. One good marketing campaign can be the push you need to create a long-lasting and profitable brand.  As a person that has a few business ventures, believe me when I tell you that I’ve tried all the types of marketing there are.  CPA marketing is by far one of the most effective and efficient types of marketing there are.  And many people have the impression that it is an easy task or some kind of a winning formula. The truth is that CPA marketing requires a lot of dedication, effort, and taking feedback into account. It is a thorough process.  With the right type of knowledge, you can have what it takes to take your business to the next level.  That is why, in this post, I will explain what is CPA marketing, what are the benefits, how does it work, and tips connected to implementing CPA marketing.  ## What is CPA marketing? CPA or Click Per Action marketing is an [affiliate model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/) where a commission is paid once a user takes a certain action.  The action can be different things depending on your business and preferences.  It can be for example watching some video or clicking on a certain link, getting a quote, making an actual purchase, etc.  CPA affiliates then receive a certain fee for each of these actions that a user does or completes.  ## How does CPA marketing work?  ![](/images/posts/inline/84a9db35-marketing-strategy-connting-digital-devices-concept_53876-23053.jpg) Before you try to implement CPA marketing, you have to understand how it works.  It can look complicated to some, but once you break down the whole process it becomes quite simple and logical.  Who is involved in CPA marketing?  1. **An affiliate**: this person is some type of influencer whose job is to promote certain products or businesses with the goal to send more traffic to their site and achieve conversions.  2. **A business**: this is the business or person that needs to drive traffic and essentially achieve more conversions on their webpage (in this case your business). The goal of the traffic can be different, it doesn’t only have to be conversions or purchases. 3. **A CPA network**: this is the platform on which the affiliate and business collaborate and promote the products/businesses. For example, the network can be Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, or specialized websites.  Let’s imagine, for instance, that the affiliate is a fitness influencer, the network is Instagram, and the business is a company that produces fitness clothing.  The influencer wants to find companies that pay him to promote their products while doing what he loves and communicates this with his Instagram followers.  The company that produces fitness clothing wants to target the audience of this specific influencer because it is in the right age and geographical group for their broader marketing strategy.  Instagram is the network on which they will collaborate.  In the end, all sides get what they want. The influencer gets paid and usually gets free samples of the products for promotion. The business reaches its intended audience and pays only for those that actually click on their website and purchase some products.  Win-Win.  ## Benefits of CPA marketing  CPA marketing has quite some benefits that are important to be mentioned:  1. CPA marketing is based on performance. You only pay for the tasks that were successful, so if there’s no success in your CPA collaboration, it won’t really cost you anything. 2. The opportunities for money-making using CPA marketing are high if you are an affiliate. If you are truly dedicated to promoting the businesses, you can easily earn a good living.  3. For businesses, CPA marketing can be quite effective especially when it comes to businesses that are just starting up or do not have a lot of finances for investing in their marketing. CPA marketing is quicker and a lot cheaper than other marketing techniques.  4. The reach of CPA marketing can be truly wide which can only bring good things for your brand.  5. CPA marketing is good for building brand awareness. It is beneficial that all the people see it. Even if they do not click or convert, people will still get familiar with your brand and maybe reach out in the future.  6. It is fairly easy to set up a CPA marketing campaign. You just need to find the right affiliates to reach out to and then let them do the rest of the job.  7. Because you only pay after the action is taken, the risk is quite low. Relevant: [All you need to know about integrated marketing communication](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/) ## CPA marketing tips  ![](/images/posts/inline/370221e7-black-pencil-yellow-backgroud-with-light-bulb-line_39608-112.jpg) ### 1\. Find an offer  If you want to start with CPA marketing, you have to find the right offer to promote suitable to your business. But where to start?  There are a lot of options out there that might be suitable for you, but you should really analyze them in order to choose the one that’s the best fitting for your marketing campaign.  For that, you have to search through different offers where many reputed networks facilitate your search.  You can filter offers by different variables like price, category, or something else depending on the website.  Some of the most famous ones are [ODigger](https://odigger.com/) and [offervault.com](http://offervault.com). But there are others as well such as MaxBounty, Clickbooth, Peerfly, Admitad, W4, and more.   Once you filter the important variables for you and find an offer that you think it’s suitable for your business, analyze the offer by looking at all the information offered.  Check the landing page on the website that you choose, since it is highly important.  Choose an offer on which landing page looks clean and professional and doesn’t have too many fields.  ### 2\. Network joining  Once you have analyzed the right offers, you should join the network.  Now, usually, these networks have some type of joining process that requires content details, and in some cases even filling out some paperwork.  Don’t be discouraged by this since the reason for these processes is to make sure that everything is authentic and which businesses are legit in order to provide the best networking experience for all sides included.  Moreover, networks will most likely need to make a connection with you through phone not because they want to make it difficult for you to join the network, but because they want to verify how legit you are.  You should take advantage of this and reach out first which will let them know that you are a serious person and you are interested in real collaborations.  And whatever you do, just be honest and transparent. You do not have to have extensive knowledge or experience to get in, you just have to be willing to make CPA marketing work.  State that you are just beginning, or that you are trying things out. Do not state that you have past experiences if you really don’t.  A good tip is also to mail them from the address of your site since they usually check these things. ### 3\. Check CPA networks’ reviews We are all aware that the internet is a vast place where all types of pages and networks can be found.  Some of the CPA networks will be shady and have bad reviews. Usually, that is for a good reason.  Before you decide to join a certain network, dig into a little bit of research, and read the reviews.  It’s logical that no network out there will have a perfect score with all positive reviews, but you should aim for a network that most people have had a pleasant experience with. If some network doesn’t have reviews, with some research on Google you can find out other experiences and people’s opinions.  Take the time to do so.  ### 4\. Say NO to old-fashioned banners  As soon as you are a part of a certain CPA network and you have chosen the right offer for you, the next step would be integrating it into your site.  Now, if you are lazy you would just slap an old-fashioned banner and be done with it.  This won’t help with conversions! You have to use this opportunity to make your site look legit by integrating the CPA’s right in. They should look as seamless as possible, so much so that people can’t tell from looking at it that it is CPA marketing unless they are familiar with it.  ### 5\. Driving traffic to the website  Everything is in vain if there is no traffic that comes to your website. There are a lot of ways out there that can help you to generate some traffic to your site, but you have to find one that is the most efficient for you in particular.  **SEO**  We can’t talk about driving traffic to a website and ranking well without mentioning [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/).  It’s a long-term strategy that can help your website in more than one way It can be a tricky thing to implement SEO and to start out with a [good SEO strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/), but once you [succeed to rank your keywords high](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/), the traffic will pour in. **SEM** Search Engine Marketing is another great way to drive traffic to your site.  It is a form of marketing through the internet that captures promoting your website by increasing the traffic through paid advertising. You pay to be more visible on the search engines.  Here, you have Google Ads, Bing Ads, and PPC (Pay Per Click) advertising.  Read: [Concise and Comprehensive Google Ads Tutorial for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/) **SMM** [Social Media Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/) is the third quite used way to efficiently send traffic to your website.  Social media is a great way to grow and maintain your online appearance and reach a lot of people.  It takes time to build good social media profiles that people are loyal to and trust, but once that’s somewhat done you can totally ask your followers to visit your website.  Some of the most used social media platforms of today are Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, etc.  ### 6\. Use the right CPA tools  For an effective CPA marketing campaign that will have positive results, you have to use the right tools. Some of those tools should be focused on automating the CPA earnings, and additionally some CPA marketing tools.  These types of tools will be extremely helpful to you in terms of completing surveys and offers received from the networks you chose.  A few tools that you should look into are Buffer, Coby Survey Tool, Prosper 202, Bitrix24, MailChimp, AdPlexity, Ansterx, etc. ### 7\. Hire an affiliate manager  CPA marketing requires a lot of effort and dedication- you have to follow what’s happening and act according to the feedback.  It’s not something that you just set up and let it run by itself. You have to communicate with affiliates or website owners, you have to come up with promotions, drive traffic to your website, etc depending on which side of the CPA marketing you are.  If you have a lot on your plate, you might not be able to pour the necessary attention into this. That is why you should consider employing an affiliate manager who knows what they’re doing when it comes to CPA marketing.  Affiliate managers can help you out whether you’re an affiliate or a business that collaborates with affiliates.  If you are an affiliate, affiliate managers can: 1. Review offers and give your strategic insights  2. Give you insight on the type of links or ads to use for optimizing conversion 3. Offer you tips for effectively promoting the products 4. Give you updates on the products and new creatives  If you are an advertiser, affiliate managers can: 1. Contact and recruit the best affiliates in your niche 2. Come up with new promotional ideas for your products 3. Negotiate with affiliates, oversee ROI, compare affiliate programs with competitors 4. Send consistent messages about the brand and products to the network And much more than this. It is totally worth it to leave it to the professionals if your budget lets you.  Additionally, keep a close and personal relationship with your affiliate manager, always check up on how things are going, and be kind!  If you build a kind, respectful relationship with your affiliate manager, you will be able to work together towards better offers and in the end increase your commission fees.  Keep an eye on the competing networks to see if they are running some of your offers but at a higher rate. If you see that, ask your affiliate manager to match that. In most cases, they will because of course, they don’t want you to change the network.  ## Wrapping up! If you made it to the end- congrats!  You learned the basics of CPA Marketing which I know will help you out if you decide to try CPA marketing for yourself.  CPA is a very nice strategy no matter how big or developed your business is at the moment.  The big ROI is what makes it so worth your while.  At first glance, it might look too complicated to try but I promise you once you try it for yourself and see how things are, you will see how actually simple it is.  It is good to know these things even if your affiliate manager is in charge of most of these things.  The more you know about the whole process, the better you can know about the affiliate manager’s work and together you can brainstorm some awesome ideas.  Remember to steer clear from the shady networks because those can do more harm than good when it comes to your reputation and online appearance.  If you found this post helpful, check out these other posts on different types of marketing: - [Relationship marketing – what is it and how it helps business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/)  - [Why cost leadership strategy is good for your business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/)  - [10 marketing books you should read](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/)  Have you tried CPA Marketing? Comment and let me know what’s your experience so far. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Schedule Instagram Posts: A Detailed Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-schedule-instagram-posts/ Published: 2020-07-13 Updated: 2024-05-21 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: The closest that everybody can come to explaining the things you need to be successful on Instagram is high-quality, customer engagement, and consistency. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. I can’t tell you the exact formula for getting Instagram famous, and no one else can either.  The closest that everybody can come to explaining the things you need to be successful on Instagram is high-quality, customer engagement, and consistency.  I am aware, from my own personal experience, that consistency can be very tricky to achieve, especially if you are a highly busy person that has thousands of tasks every week.  A major problem is timing. Coming up with a great agenda and creating amazing content means nothing if you are not sharing the posts at the right time.  Something that is relevant today, might not be relevant tomorrow.  In a time where [Instagram has more than one billion monthly active users](https://alejandrorioja.com/tips-to-get-more-instagram-followers/), you really have to fight for people’s attention.  It is quite easy to forget to post something, and that is why you should consider finding the right tools for you that will provide support in your Instagram consistency.  Instagram post scheduling is not a new thing, but many people are just overwhelmed with the possible choices thus they avoid the decision altogether.  That is why in this post I will explain how to schedule Instagram posts, what are the benefits of doing so, and which tools you can use to help you in the way.  ## Benefits of scheduling Instagram posts  ### 1\. It saves time  Let’s start with the most obvious benefit and the biggest reason why many people decide to use scheduling tools for Instagram.  Your calendar is probably quite busy, and some things can slip through your mind.  If it happens once, it might not be a big deal but if you continuously slack with posting on Instagram the chances of your account getting big are quite slim.  Moreover, there are certain times of the day and week where posts are more viewed, and at those times you might have other obligations and not be able to post.  Scheduling posts exactly when the time is right for your audience, and planning that ahead is a great benefit that comes from using scheduling tools. That being said, you can take a few hours every week where you line up the visuals and content for the whole week or more, put them up on your social media calendar, and relax.  The posts will be published automatically and you don’t need to think about it again, until the next time you’re scheduling.  ### 2\. Takes care of aesthetics Instagram is a visual social media platform and that makes aesthetics extremely important for every profile.  Whatever you’re selling on Instagram, you have to make sure that it looks nice and that it has the right colors, tons, and compositions presented in the grid.  This can be quite hard to achieve when you’re posting pictures one by one and you decide on them at the moment.  The overall look can be messy and not compatible.  This is where scheduling tools can come in handy because when you’re planning more posts at a time you can see the bigger perspective of the grid and adjust it accordingly.  Another thing that is a plus here, is that you can observe posts that need to go public in the future and catch some pictures that might not fit well into the plan but you initially thought they would.  This way, you can optimize your future content the most you can.  ### 3\. Takes care of consistency Consistency is a must on Instagram and it plays a key role in how successful your account will be.  If you are publishing posts consistently and frequently, the people that follow you will learn to expect your posts in the future.  For example, let’s say that you are a cycling clothing business and you share results of relevant races all the time. In the future when a certain race is happening your audience will think of your profile when they want to see who won or what are the highlights of the event.  This means that by being consistent, you will build up loyalty among your followers on Instagram. ### 4\. Post from PC Sometimes switching back and forth between your PC and phone can be an exhausting process.  If you are a social media manager, it might be quite easier to create and schedule the content through a desktop.  You might have the needed content in your PC because you are editing the images there, so you should have the opportunity to post them on Instagram without re-sending them to your phone.  Editing the images and videos is also quite easier on the desktop than on a phone.  You can also spot more things on a bigger screen like for example typos, or some details in the images that are not quite fit for publishing.  Relevant: [Make money with Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-money-with-instagram/) ### 5\. Manage More Accounts  If you are a social media manager and you deal with multiple profiles, scheduling posts might be the best thing that ever happened to you.  And I’m not overstating.  It is quite difficult to keep track of one single account, let alone plan and post from several Instagram accounts.  If you want to be more organized and effective, leave publishing posts to the tool that will take care of automatically.  Your only job would be to oversee the whole process and fix things that need fixing.  This way, you can spend less time executing repetitive tasks and have more time and energy to be creative when it comes to Instagram content.  ## How to schedule Instagram posts? ![](/images/posts/inline/592082b5-zinknoevk8dumdq6_1568709966.jpeg) The easiest way to do scheduling on Instagram is by using the Instagram Creator Studio.  The Creator Studio was first available only for Facebook, but then Instagram was incorporated and people are now allowed to edit images, add [Instagram captions](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-instagram-captions/) and tags, set locations, and schedule posts for both social media platforms.  [](https://later.com/blog/instagram-creator-studio-guide/) The process of connecting your Instagram to the Creator Studio is quite easy and everybody can do it.  First, you need to do the following things:  1. Make sure that you have both a [Facebook Page](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/) and an Instagram account  2. Make sure they are connected  3. Be certain that you are using the right profile or Creator Account  4. Open the Creator Studio on your desktop and click the Instagram icon 5. If you have a Facebook page that is already connected to the specific account click to connect to that page 6. If you don’t have a Facebook page connected to an Instagram account, click “Connect to Instagram” Once you are connected the process is quite easy. 1. Choose the content that you want to schedule. You can do this either by choosing images and videos from your computer or from your Facebook page. 2. Crop your images if you need to  3. Add a caption and location if you want to  4. Click on the arrow on the right of the “Publish” button, and select “Schedule” 5. Appoint the wanted date and time That’s it. The posts will be published when you appointed them, and you don’t need to get involved anymore.  The minus side of this feature is that not everybody can use it. Only business accounts and Instagram influencers can.  ## Instagram scheduling tools  There are a lot of third-party tools out there that can help you with your quest to properly schedule your Instagram posting.  Some of the best ones are the following:  ### 1\. Later.com  Later is one of the most used tools for scheduling Instagram posts and with a reason.  You can get different types of plans, one of which is a free version.  With the free version, you will be able to add one account and schedule up to 30 photos per month.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/909KwdRpRQjvxXMXD_CYUcX5mwiwAMHOV8nhcruSwK2dD8xVc9a5reRM3Cn6ryE_F7wIBW3kkY61LGwzq7Zj9kgZsALUvxoDhf2gZ5_BbhDWZ8WGHvH9_ry2m7xjUuf2I9mKeAzv) You can also search and repost content with the free version. If you want more functionalities, you can choose some of the paid accounts with starting prices at just $7.5 per month.  If you need scheduling for multiple accounts, there are plans suitable for you as well.  ### 2\. Hopper HQ Another good tool is Hopper HQ. They offer quite some functionalities that you can use. You can post and schedule posts even from your phone, post automatically with no reminders, and post both images and videos. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8ob73wor5j-WIkIa_VXx4_tkJr0ptVaiethUAdUAgUsZQd_CQej5zWls1gDD22Lw4_5y0u-g4DL1BKcfqNP5oi3s269xmqfOzEdAqHLrUvwxhHj6_w7ZU_dl1FJF0HsDrM9BsX4T) The good thing about Hopper HQ is that it’s [Instagram approved so no spam accounts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/).  The only free option they offer is a 14-day trial period where you can check out the functionalities and see if the tool suits your needs.  Otherwise, their plan prices start at $19 per month.  If you choose to pay annually, the prices are lower.  ### 3\. SkedSocial (ScheduGram) Another very used tool among the Instagram schedulers in ScheduGram.  It offers quite some features like uploading photos and videos from the web, editing images, bulk uploading, managing more accounts, access to multiple users to manage the content, etc.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/M_rFosLeM0lz-CKj-r6befX9ydG9xQ-F5EDzclrnq8AIhJy_TegS-NMYTuf5G6nruc4Ltt9SNQ9MadKcJCjoaEf_xcwCtqIbWkXJdDVvi1uqZiyb2Rdx7trUgfNTMGLL6qQziE4s) The pricing starts at $25, and there are several plans available with different functionalities.  If you want a free trial, they are granting a 7-day trial where you can explore the tool. There are a lot of other tools that you can choose from like Crowdfire, Viraltag, Onlypult, Machinegram, Buffer, and many others. ## Wrapping up! To sum up, whatever way you choose to schedule your posts, making that decision will be a life-changer for you and the path to [getting more Instagram followers](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/). It doesn’t matter if you are a small business that is just starting to grow its Instagram account, or a social media manager that works with tens of different accounts- you will be thankful for making this decision. As we’re all aware time is invaluable and spending yours on the right tasks and creative ways is what will make you even better at what you do.  When making the decision on which tool to use, try to define first what features are important to you and then do deep research on all the available options.  Maybe even try the free trial versions on some of the tools available and see how it goes and what works for you the best.  Got some helpful information? Check some of my other “how to” posts: - [YouTube subscribers – how to increase them?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-more-subscribers-on-youtube/)  - [How do I use Google analytics?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-google-analytics/)  - [All you need to know about Twitter marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-twitter-marketing/) Drop a comment letting me know what to write about next when it comes to Instagram. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## What Is Relationship Marketing And How To Do It? Tips & Tricks Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-relationship-marketing/ Published: 2020-07-13 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Marketing, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Marketing is a truly complex subject because it entails so many different branches that can leave businesses very confused.  It is very easy to miss a few directions of important types of marketing. It might be better to choose a few types of marketing and stick to them.  In this post, I will talk about the importance of relationship marketing and why it should make its way to your top ways of promoting your brand and products or services.  > Relationship marketing is extremely important because it allows you to be in close contact with your customers.[](https://oivac.com/event/relationship-marketing/) If you understand how your customers see your brand and products or services, you can offer them something more than that- unmet needs.  And if you offer them more, your relationship will become even stronger and it is better than producing brand loyalty in your customers.  ## What is relationship marketing?  Relationship marketing is basically building good relationships with your customers that will eventually turn them into loyal customers.  This is very important for brands because essentially the goal of any business is to have loyal customers that keep returning to the business and prefer that particular brand over other brands in the industry.  For example, if a random person that stopped you on the street asked you for some money because they really need it, you might be confused.  You would make your decision based on the amount of money they’re asking you, their appearance, how genuine they sound, or how good of a reason they have for urgently needing some money.  And in the end, you might end up giving them the money, but in a lot of cases, you might decide not to.  On the other hand, if some of your closest friends and family members came to you and asked you for the same amount of money, you would make your decision based on the relationship you have with them and the loyalty you have built.  It is basically the same when it comes to brands and businesses. The more people trust the brand, the more they will choose it in the pool of the competition.  Also Read: [How to Build trust in your brand?](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/) ## How to do relationship marketing? ![](/images/posts/inline/52457453-human-resources-management-recruitment-business-build-team-concept-businessman-hand-putting-wood-cube-block-top_20693-217.jpg) You might be reading on relationship marketing for the first time, or you might have already implemented some things but you want to improve.  Either way, I will explain some of the ways that are effective for building long-lasting and trusting relationships with your customers that will come in handy.  ### Customer service Functional and very responsive customer service has to be the first step towards building trusting relationships with your customers.  Whatever other efforts you try to implement, if you can’t help out your customers when they’re having difficulties with your business, all efforts will be vain.  A lot of customers will choose another brand only due to poor customer service, and that speaks a lot about how customers want to be treated.  After all, they are choosing to spend their money on your business, so you have to respect them enough when they need you.  There are some things you can pay attention to when it comes to your customer service:  1. **Customer satisfaction should be a priority**: customers are an essential part of your [business and profits](https://alejandrorioja.com/revenue-vs-profit/), and you have to go all the way in making sure that their satisfaction is on the top of your list.  2. **Create organizational awareness**: create a customer-centric culture throughout the whole organization by creating high awareness in everybody that is involved with the business 3. **Rewards for customer service employees**: you have to properly engage the customer service team with personal gains that they might have from being extra helpful and friendly with your customers. ### Personalize the customer experience  If you want to build a relationship with your customers, you have to get personal.  Personalization can be hard to achieve, but in the end, it is always worth it.  Try to find out as much as you can about what your customers prefer. Gather information on what they buy, when they buy, how do they become aware of brands, what hobbies do they have, and whatever else you think might be relevant to you.  Using the gathered knowledge, build a custom experience, and a plan of communicating with your customers.  You can find out a lot of information and opinions of customers through surveys and fun online games with them.  This way, you can find what bothers them and what they like. Maybe they really like customer service, but the checkout process is too difficult.  And finally, don’t forget to tell them the results once you implement the changes or improvements that the customers suggested. They will appreciate that.  Relevant: [SEO for building your brand](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-your-brand-authority-using-seo/) ### Content for the customers Whatever business you’re in today, you almost have to have a blog or articles with great content that will support your customers. A lot of businesses publish content as a place filler so they have something to publish.  Even though your business might not be tightly connected to content, what you publish is extremely important for your customers.  A good strategy is to ask your customers what they would like to know. You can make a survey, questions on social media, or even in newsletters.  Once you have the answers, the [content should be focused](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) on answering them in a short and concise manner. Be informative, and on-point and give your customers what they need.  Another thing you can do is explain the inevitable processes in your business like for example online buying or selling products to the readers.  If you are selling computers, writing things from a technical point like what features do what, which computers are suitable to which needs, comparison between devices or parts, etc.  ### Loyalty programs  Building a good relationship with your customers also means recognizing the customers’ loyalty and rewarding it from time to time.  That is why it is a good idea to create a loyalty program that will offer special things to those of the customers that are loyal to your brand.  Often, brands will do these loyalty programs but be cheap on the rewards and give some insignificant rewards that might be offensive to customers and make things worse. Try to think of a way that you can really reward your customers to be loyal and inspire other customers to become loyal to your brand.  Make them truly feel validated through different special incentives like:  1. Member-only sales  2. Big discounts 3. VIP event invites 4. Changes to win free products This way, your loyal customers will have a proper incentive to stay loyal and they will have a good opinion of your brand which makes the word-of-mouth work even more.  ### After-sale follow-ups  If you want to go that extra mile to make a great impression on your customers, you have to extend the purchasing process.  After the purchase is done, make sure that you figure out how to properly make sure that they are satisfied and if they have some comments on the whole process.  You can work with several options here like sending a survey, asking for reviews, etc.  Moreover, you can also keep sending information to the customers who made a purchase on how to properly take care of the products that they bought, what other similar things you offer, that you’re available for them if there’s a defect, etc.  Think good about which type of follow-up strategy would best fit your type of business.  It doesn’t matter how you choose to follow-up as long as you are genuinely interested in what customers have to say and try to improve the things that are not working out from their perspective.  ## Bottom line To sum up, relationship marketing can take your business to the next level and improve your overall ROI.  It may seem a lot of effort, but once you get into the mindset the whole thing will come naturally to you and the people in your organization.   Relationship marketing is the best choice if you are interested in building long-lasting relationships with your customers.  Now that you have the basic information and are aware as to why is it important and how you can properly do it, make sure you implement it the right way in your business..  Let me know which of the tips have you tried so far, or if you have some others feel free to share.  Liked the article? Share it with your network! This post got you inspired? Here are some more marketing related articles to help you grow your business: - [Digital marketing guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/)  - [How this one strategy can help you boost your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/)  - [What is integrated marketing communication?](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/)  Leave a comment if you have a topic in mind that you’d want me to cover! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Sweatcoin Work? A Detailed Overview Of The App Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-sweatcoin-work/ Published: 2020-07-07 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: Reviews TL;DR: It has more than 30 million users who are paid for walking and running. The steps you take are analyzed and converted into a digital currency called “Sweatcoins”. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Ever thought you could be paid for walking? For staying fit and healthy? Well, yes this is possible! How? Allow me to introduce, [Sweatcoin](https://sweatco.in/) – an app that pays you for walking!  I acknowledge that obesity is a growing problem not just for children but also in adults. As described by [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obesity/symptoms-causes/syc-20375742), obesity is a disease that involves an unnecessary amount of body fat.  If I do not pay close attention, I might end up acquiring diabetes and hypertension. I personally believe that staying fit and healthy can be achieved with the aid of technology. [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/leebelltech/2018/03/26/the-best-health-tech-2017/#54fab7f838df) published an article on how to improve health involving gadgets.  Fitness-tracking technology brought awareness to people about their health.  In terms of fitness-tracking technology, Sweatcoin is an application that uses the same mechanism. The twist here is that you earn while you keep yourself healthy. ## What is Sweatcoin? Sweatcoin is considered as the fastest growing health and fitness application. It has more than 30 million users who are paid for walking and running. The steps you take are analyzed and converted into a digital currency called “Sweatcoins”. The application can be downloaded by Android and iOS users. ## Sweatcoin app walkthrough Let us have a quick look at the app. The following are the application’s features. ### In-app marketplace ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y-lwRitb1ur_TUEpwIpxoBM1-X5_oZ26Zy4o3mQ596QDqqdX8mUMY__Jc144fD33X2E0n-LA0Hp4FnVH1zesuKOky_uPVlOgD5r6x6IxmAWGVdhZF8YbtqP6UUxZm7siq8DhMuQJ) The in-app marketplace has the following features: 1. Marathon Offers – displays the featured products from brand partners 2. Daily Offers – displays the available daily bonuses a user can receive per day. Daily offers regenerate every 24-hours 3. First Week Specials – features the free app given by Sweatcoin 4. Sweatcoin Influencer – displays the offer to become a Sweatcoin Influencer 5. Bucket List – shows the offers for travel destinations 6. Crowdfunding – this section provides multiple crowdfunding projects that users can support by donating the earned Sweatcoins. 7. Offers of the day – features the special products available for free or in a small amount of Sweatcoins Also Read: [What is Facebook marketplace?](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/) ### Wallet ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/CaKbFOcMTNkTG5WNOT2YiblbqckP1QS2RKOxAFoVvE3nf0gqS5S49hNLxD9mNDFiGsCQ9jnk60fIWIonJzLUqlrTAmITTtBs9_cScx2jmP6FEkFLvwkyB00qTcwj4F3hul7JfmR9) The wallet contains the conversion history and history of received bonuses. It also displays the total earned Sweatcoins. The wallet contains the link where you can spend your Sweatcoins and the link where you can claim your Sweatcoin bonuses. ### Daily progress ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ksWILGtYnf1IokSPlGxRBQYg2K3WCDMGcigGoq9gAMzqGg5jfV2qqVc1jGBNaCSb59wIf-CZ2YwMKiT4nZuQbhVz0PiLAt50U-w7Jk7NQxzAU_QsD5enlo8srwA-I6Db1rzg7nY_) This tab showcases the approved steps and total steps of the user. It also displays the new offerings and information about the progress of the user. ### Leaderboard ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/pbxZXe8u_tVjkSEtGUaYUHXhzOKjjQI13vE4q2rE20cvJP660VDCn5qoNLe-uADPVWfgPdDDa58Ptv5vHlLGf5wGfByCdULtU36yL2svMH6MtQlrSJsAmYUJ0F1JRrlW3sxn0-Wf) The fourth tab is the leaderboard. This shows the progress done by your friends. You can see their statistics and compare them with yours. It also shows who is leading. With this, you can get motivated by the steps taken by your friends. ### Profile ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/r5MGutBJXLJ0ZGOBif8JCAYTuNBLUTw5Kfby1puIvHya6tYEfEyZDq7fBWuS9ezvyj5gii5ZkmMoN9skXP1ktuCfX997KDOG-Ti33TlD8xQr0huK6mD9iyd3a0AQGpY7r5KQP8Ar) The last tab contains the profile of the user. It displays the Sweatcoin users you’re following, your followers, and your current Sweatcoin plan. ## How does Sweatcoin work? As Sweatcoin tracks your steps, it analyzes your movements and converts them into Sweatcoin. There might be issues raised pertaining to the tracking of steps, steps-Sweatcoin ratio, daily bonuses, and Sweatcoins as a digital currency.  ### Tracking steps Global Positioning System (GPS) plays an essential role in tracking the movement of the users. The user’s location gives an estimate of the steps taken. In addition, data from the phone would also be used to track the user’s steps. The user’s health and fitness data from the phone and GPS are synchronized with the application. ### Steps-Sweatcoin ratio As the application tracks how many steps the user has taken, it gives “sweat” value as a reward to a corresponding movement. The application translates 1,000 steps into 0.95 Sweatcoins. Study shows that an average person takes 3,000 to 4,000 steps a day. From a practical perspective, it can generate at least three to four Sweatcoins. Walking does not cost you money. You have nothing to lose with this app. ### Daily bonuses ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/34ivyqg9VeXwVSekSoRHOiE9nxrrioyrcNGOeXSYuoqyEdHtCbG7S4kQAvaAOBymbCREPYk47eoYlmBC_kGUwhK87PfQwwoxAS1hxx4kXUc0XMsIgVjGBTZiQG_fl29jApIw3o8k) Aside from the tracking of steps, Sweatcoin gives daily bonuses to its users. It has three bonuses that can be unlocked through watching videos a day. In case you want to unlock daily bonuses and 24 hours has not yet passed, these bonuses can be unlocked through trading 500 steps. Sweatcoin gives bonuses from 0.5 up to 25 Sweatcoins. ### Works like a digital currency Users earn rewards through Sweatcoins. These coins can be later traded with products posted in the in-app marketplace.  However, Sweatcoin is not a crypto asset. Meaning, it cannot be exchanged or traded with other digital currencies.  Although it is a crypto asset, the fact that Sweatcoins can be used to purchase in-app, it is a good reward for your sweat. ## Utilizing the earned Sweatcoins After gaining enough Sweatcoins, what’s next? Sweatcoin can be used to purchase products featured in the app. ### Purchase through the in-app marketplace Even though Sweatcoin is not a crypto asset, it can be used to purchase items through the in-app marketplace. There are various products to choose from. The following are the items available: 1. Audiobooks 2. Gym gears 3. Clothes 4. iPhone 8 5. Curved Samsung Television 6. Paid applications 7. Gift cards ## Make money through Sweatcoin Earned Sweatcoins can be converted into actual cash. Your earned step counts, bonuses, and payment as an influencer can be converted into cash. The following are the ways which Sweatcoins can be turned into actual cash. ### Become a Sweatcoin influencer Another option to earn Sweatcoins is to become a Sweatcoin Influencer. Earn easy Sweatcoins using Instagram and Snapchat as [a paid influencer](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-to-become-a-trusted-influencer/). As an influencer, you can earn up to $1,000 per day. You need followers to become a paid influencer. You need to gather 30 invites with your sharing link. You can also have access to the influencer marketplace where your $1,000 can be redeemed.  Relevant: [Make money with Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-money-with-instagram/) ### Exchange Sweatcoins with actual cash In case you want to exchange Sweatcoins into actual cash instead of purchasing products in the in-app marketplace, you can trade 20,000 Sweatcoins at $1,000. This is under the marathon offers in the app. ### Upgrade Sweatcoin plans ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/9_KemrZVneAv35pulfnyNkHr2bEgBM4rG8Qal3JNOjpqhqWnEMYFTRIRF9i6WCYbE-VPEPwnG0Hkoy6CnKnqXt2yEscnGEvPNOCaoaw8-FO-uwIMOdRa7oBO8r1eDRYBxAQXwgSR) There are four Sweatcoin plans available for upgrade. Every plan has corresponding reward offerings. The upgrades do not involve actual cash. Still, you have to work it out to generate enough Sweatcoins.  1. Mover – mover plan is the default plan where users can earn up to five Sweatcoins per day or 150 Sweatcoins per month. 2. Shaker – Shaker plan costs 4.75 Sweatcoins per month. Here, you can earn up to 10 Sweatcoins daily or up to 300 Sweatcoins per month. 3. Quaker – Quaker plan costs 20 Sweatcoins per month. You can earn up to 15 Sweatcoins per day or up to 450 Sweatcoins per month. 4. Breaker – Breaker plan costs 30 Sweatcoins per month. Users can earn up to 20 Sweatcoins per day or up to 600 Sweatcoin per month. 5. Trouble Maker – The Trouble Maker plan is yet to be released. ## How does Sweatcoin generate money? Many might raise this question: Sweatcoin is a free app, how can it pay its users? Just like any other application, Sweatcoin also generates money for itself. The brand partners pay Sweatcoin in order to be featured in the in-app marketplace. Since Sweatcoin is a fast-growing app, it has an advantage to get featured. It works as an advertisement. Talking about the advertisement, Sweatcoin also gets paid through from the advertisement shown in the application. Also, users pay a 5% commission from the generated Sweatcoins per day. The commission might be seen as a tax, it is used to pay users for the invites and other bonuses stored from the Sweatcoin bank. Also Read: [Revenue and profit – are they the same?](https://alejandrorioja.com/revenue-vs-profit/) ## Is Sweatcoin legit? I know what comes in your mind. A free app that pays, it is too good to be true. Sweatcoin is 100% legit. It really does pay when you walk. ## Sweatcoin’s hitch Sweatcoin measures the steps taken outside. This means that indoor steps might not get read. This downside made users disillusioned and generated complaints on social media. Since the app only keeps track of outdoor steps, a treadmill run might not get recognized. This issue is taken into consideration by the developers.  ## Sweatcoin’s catchy strategy Sweatcoin’s strategy is unique and catchy. It uses walking as introductory content which made its way to get attention. It made use of competitive psychology which encouraged users to compete with friends.  It is a free-to-download application that offers passive income. At the same time, users can earn rewards while keeping oneself healthy. ## Bottom line Sweatcoin is an application that monetizes steps taken by the user. The upgrades utilize Sweatcoins which encourages users to walk more. This is indeed a win-win situation. You get paid while you walk. Drop a comment below and let me know what you think of this innovative app. Check out other articles about making money I am sure you will find useful. - [How does Netflix earn?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/)  - [DuckDuckgo’s revenue stream](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-duckduckgo-make-money/)  - [Venmo’s revenue model](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Everything You Need To Know About The Facebook Marketplace Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-marketplace/ Published: 2020-07-03 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Social Media Marketing TL;DR: For the uninitiated, Facebook Marketplace is a site where you can explore, advertise, and procure goods. It permits sellers to register their merchandise or services and connects them to potential buyers. ## Table of contents Gone are the days where buying and selling goods was limited to transactions within a physical building. For the uninitiated, Facebook Marketplace is a site where you can explore, advertise, and procure goods. It permits sellers to register their merchandise or services and connects them to potential buyers. The general public and distinctive labels may catalog their goods into various groups. This way, consumers can access specific categories, overall sections, or search for particular items. Facebook plays a crucial role in helping brands market their goods by providing a platform for vendors and vendees to link. Target audiences have access to products sold by both their peers and commercialized merchants, broadening the market extensively. ## What is Facebook marketplace? Marketplace is a user-friendly forum that allows people to explore, buy, and trade in stock. It connects retailers and shoppers and enables them to capitalize on the existing synergy on Facebook from the comfort of their homes. ### Where is this marketplace? There’s no need for you to download a separate app as it’s already there on both Android and iOS devices.If you haven’t come across it before, there’s no need to panic; it’s not too late to jump on the wagon. Constant updates alter the icon’s exact location, but you can usually identify it by a small store logo somewhere on the screen. Clicking on it will reveal a list of the latest items close to you with accompanying images, which you can tap for further details. Developers promise to release a desktop version soon since, presently, only mobile apps are available. Additionally, a strict age restriction for only 18 and older is adhered to, limiting who can access it.  ### How it works Once you’ve clicked on a picture and studied the brief description – the next step is to contact the merchant to make an offer. Though a price point is listed, marketplace affords retailers to handle several bids and choose the best option. Because the approximate location of the goods is included, you can easily see how far your item is from you. This also assists in advertising other products that the buyer may have on offer. An organized sequence of listing goods is used, with specific categories that allow you to search for specific goods. From the seller’s end, posting your merchandise is as easy as snapping the item, providing a brief description, landing on a price, and in a few seconds, you’re done. You can now sit back and watch your goods practically sell themselves. What more, you can keep an eye on your listings efficiently from the Marketplace hub. ## What are the categories? The options available for detailing your merchandise are concise and afford buyers the ease to perform detailed searches. Finding goods may be done categorically, or by searching for specific items. The following categories are followed:  1. Classifieds 2. Clothing & Accessories 3. Deals 4. Entertainment 5. Family 6. Hobbies 7. Home & Garden 8. Housing 9. Vehicles. It also shows that a lot of people think their old phones and laptops are worth a lot more than you should pay for outdated hardware. Maybe check eBay before you splash too much cash on old tech. Here’s what you need to know [to take advantage](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesinsights/2019/07/09/what-millennials-want-when-they-shop-online) of Facebook Marketplace now. ## What you need to know about selling on Facebook marketplace  One of the things you’ll need to be aware of is that there are people who don’t understand that goods depreciate with use. You’ll likely find used gadgets that are way outdated and even more overpriced. Once you’ve found your way past these, however, there’ll be more important things to remember. Here are a few hints to keep you protected on the Facebook Marketplace: Read: [Facebook jail – how to avoid it](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-avoid-facebook-jail/) ### 1\. Protect your privacy  ![](/images/posts/inline/e2937fc3-facebook-security-contents_38810-4878.jpg) Always safeguard your privacy. Information like your banking details and passwords should never be shared with dealers or clients. If you’re dealing in electronics, ensure that all personal data has been erased from the devices before trading them. ### 2\. Pick a safe location ![](/images/posts/inline/3c20a95a-flat-lay-top-view-wooden-office-desk-workspace_35355-6424.jpg) When selecting a place to meet, choose neutral ground where you’ll be in public view. Never agree to meet in dubious areas, and preferably, check the area out on maps beforehand. ### 3\. Double-check the goods personally ![](/images/posts/inline/e422e38e-checklist-concept-checklist-paper-pen-with-checklist-word-wooden-table_9635-1840.jpg) Make sure of the item you’re purchasing, guarantee that it is precisely what you’re after before paying. For superior purchases (example: jewelry, luxury bags), demand credentials for legitimacy or proof of ownership before making any payment. ### 4\. Use cash on delivery payment or Paypal ![](/images/posts/inline/fe989df7-pos-credit-card-settlement-instead-cash-settlement-shopping_1359-1162.jpg) Both dealers and customers should be willing to deal with cash or person-to-person payments. These are accessible on Facebook Messenger or PayPal. ### 5\. Beware of phony items ![](/images/posts/inline/10a268bf-fake-fact-yellow-tiles_23-2148227728.jpg) Make sure you inspect any goods before buying so that you’re not sold anything fake. Take note of deals that sound suspiciously enticing as crooks may try and scam you with illogically low prices. Now that you’ve gotten a briefing, we’ll get onto what’s acceptable in the actual trade. Facebook controls what goods can and cannot be traded on Marketplace. These include: 1. Adult products or services 2. Alcoholic substances 3. Animals 4. Digital media 5. Drugs (recreational, prescription, or illegal) 6. Gift Cards 7. Medical items (first-aid kits, thermometers, etc.) 8. Projectiles for weaponry (guns, ammunition) 9. Tickets for events 10. Tobacco products  11. Unsafe supplements 12. Weapons, ammunition, or explosives. Goods sold must be tangible and have a representative picture provided. Services like housework or salon services that aren’t physical can only be accessed by organizing with Facebook partners. Facebook also prohibits showing images promising radical changes, e.g., weight loss via preview and after pictures. If your item is removed without any breach of law from your side, an appeal may be made. Inversely, if you encounter controversial goods, you’re encouraged to report them. Only a limited [number of eCommerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/) align with Facebook Marketplace. Some of the few partnered with Marketplace include: 1. BigCommerce 2. ChannelAdvisor 3. ShipStation 4. Shopify 5. Zentail 6. Quipt 7. CommerceHub. Expect a lot of back-and-forth communication with the person you’re in business with. As this platform may be unfamiliar to some consumers, be patient with your clients, and answer all their questions. Also, take care to maintain consistent communication and regularly respond so that buyers don’t wait too long. Maintain courteous conduct when communicating as you would on any trading platform. Master a professional and friendly tone and develop communication templates for pre- and post-purchase inquiries. This will ensure smooth communication with your potential customers. Capitalize customer service transmissions to put your brand voice on a pedestal and impress your customers. Relevant: [Shopify or Amazon? Which platform is right for your business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) ## Benefits of selling on Facebook marketplace The longstanding success of Facebook as a platform for connecting people bumps up the Marketplace’s prosperity. 1. Facebook Marketplace proffers a secure means to increase the number of potential customers you advertise your products to. 2. It efficiently links retailers with consumers that are hunting for the exact goods they’re selling. It keeps searches relevant to consumer needs, bringing you closer to your target audience. 3. The searches bring it down to dealers closest to the buyer, so extra fees like shipping fees are eliminated. 4. Anything that can be done from the comfort of one’s couch will most likely be favorable for most people. The marketplace offers just that. And as the seller, you can equally relax and watch your goods sell themselves online. 5. There’s a vast number of listings you can register. Consumers relish variety and having options so you can list as many (legal) things on there, with no listing fees. 6. Your next customer could come from any age group, from Gen Z to baby boomers, to millenials, across all boards. It is highly accessible and easy to use. ## How do deals go down? Here, you have the autonomy to conduct your trade in whatever way you see fit as long as you and the person at the end of that transaction agree, and no laws are broken. What more, Facebook doesn’t get any cut from sales made or interfere with payment methods. They just cater to the infrastructure and trust you to handle the rest. The buyer and seller can bargain a little until they agree on a middle ground that benefits both. Once the deal has been closed, you can arrange the payment and delivery details via messages.  Unquestionably, be alert for scammers since you’ll be dealing with strangers. Organize pickups to occur in broad daylight and in public spaces where you’re less likely to be robbed. For payment, you have the option to use PayPal that provides a refund if the goods are subpar. This is arrangeable as long as it meets the terms and conditions for making claims. Such a guarantee may not be possible with cash payments. However, there is an option to ‘Report’ a retailer, if agreements are breached. When dealing with BigCommerce merchants, all you have to do is create an account then link your store. Ensure that your stock is up-to-date, and the descriptions listed are accurate. After this, ensure that you’re active on your page and have instant sales available. Also Read: [Best ecommerce sites for 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) ## Facebook marketplace rules Whichever end of the transaction you find yourself in, there are a set of guidelines you’ll need to familiarize yourself with. All listed items must comply with Facebook rules and regulations. This is done to ensure the safety of both the buyer and seller since [Facebook doesn’t get any commission from these sales](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/). ### Facebook marketplace rules for buyer There are guidelines that buyers need to adhere to for their own protection. These include: 1. Don’t make any advance payments before receiving your product. There may be scammers looting around, and once you’ve been cheated, you may not be able to get reimbursed. 2. Keep records in the form of screenshots of products and any communication between you and the seller. This will help you when there’s a dispute, and you need to file for a claim. FB Consumer Right Act declares that purchased products should be identical to the descriptions provided by the seller. If it’s described as new, the item you receive must be fresh out of the box. Anything else is a breach of contract, and you have the right to report the seller to FB to carry out the necessary actions. 3. Another crucial rule is to know the general price of the item you want to buy. Checking on other online sites and auction sites may prove useful in giving you an idea of the price range to expect.  4. Be thorough in verifying the profile of the seller(s). Investigate their legitimacy by cross checking their friend’s list and see if they’re active on their profile. ### Facebook marketplace rules for seller Retailers need to follow certain rules to protect them and their credibility as dealers. These rules include: 1. Orders must be prepared for shipping within three days and received within seven days.  2. For brands that sell custom-made goods, it’s essential to adjust the amount you have available to account for any issues with supply and demand. 3. Take care to upload a clear, representative picture of the goods you want to put up for sale. This and a fair and authentic description of it will be needed. 4. Always compile records of any agreements made with a buyer. This will be crucial in helping build your credibility. 5. Be fair when pricing your goods. Inflating the price of our products may chase away potential customers. You can also compare your prices with those of online shops to ensure that you maintain fairness. 6. When organizing a meetup, ensure that the exchange is conducted in a public place.  7. As a seller, take care to ensure checks from customers don’t “bounce” back, or you’re not scammed into paying for fake transportation or insurance costs for the vehicle. If the payment method agreed on is electronic via wire transfers or money order solutions, avoid payment links – instead, log in directly through the payment method’s website. Remember that even cashier and certified checks can be bogus. Transactions should be strictly between the vendor and vendee only, with no third-party guarantees involved. Most places have laws against selling recalled items. To confirm that goods you’re purchasing or selling haven’t been recalled, check on the manufacturer’s site. It’s illegal to trade in fraudulent items in most countries, and Facebook holds the same standards. Review any products you intend to purchase to make sure that they’re genuine.  When purchasing a car, crosscheck with trusted websites to get an idea of what you should be gunning for when paying for a similar vehicle. You can also try accessing a vehicle history report and organize a vehicle inspection before making the purchase. See which [trends](https://www.forbes.com/sites/braintree/2018/11/12/5-trends-that-will-drive-online-shopping-in-2019) are driving online shopping here. ## Bottom line Millions of people globally use theMarketplace each month to browse, purchase, or sell goods. With an increase in competition and omnichannel game plans in use, merchants are in search of new ways to transform their sales channels. These include tapping into existing systems and online platforms to maximize outreach. Drop a comment below and let me know if there’s anything sales-related you’d like me to cover. Check out other articles I’ve written about sales and marketing I think you’ll find helpful. - [Facebook advertising guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-advertising/)  - [Revenue and profit – are they the same?](https://alejandrorioja.com/revenue-vs-profit/) - [What is integrated marketing communication](https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/) --- _— [Alejandro](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems](/services/#agent) for founders. [See the stack →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How Does DuckDuckGo Make Money? Features & Business Model Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-duckduckgo-make-money/ Published: 2020-07-02 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Business, SEO TL;DR: The entire operation was self-funded until they were able to earn $3 million in 2011. Seven years later, they entered a partnership with OMERS and got $10 million. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Due to the surge of internet users around the globe, online businesses emerged in the process. I have made articles to help you sell online from getting more visitors to earning a lot from it. Another way is to create your search engine. A [search engine](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) is defined as a website where you can enter a keyword or phrase in its text box. Then, you can find a list of sites that are related to it. I will discuss one of them named DuckDuckGo. This article will involve exploring its origins and analyzing its business model. Another type of website that search engines directly affect is blogs. If you want to learn the reasons why you should write one today, check out the short video below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vjj56Xb0WJE ## An overview of DuckDuckGo In this section, let us learn how this search engine came to be. Aside from that, we can also learn how to use it too. ### History The website was founded in 2008 by Gabriel Weinberg. Aside from this website, he also co-authored two books: [Super Thinking: The Big Book of Mental Models](http://superthinking.com/) and [Traction: How Any Startup Can Achieve Explosive Customer Growth](https://amzn.to/2EboAtt). Two years before that, he sold NamesDatabase for $10 million. The social media website was bought by classmates.com, which was under United Online. As of today, it has not been updated [since 2008](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Names_Database). The entire operation was self-funded until they were able to earn $3 million in 2011. Seven years later, they entered a partnership with OMERS and got $10 million. Using this money, they were able to keep the website alive while it was gaining attention. After receiving the money in 2011, the company was able to grow to 68 employees. Before then, there were only ten employees that were working with Weinberg. It is expected that they will hire more employees in the future due to its rising popularity. Since then, its share in the mobile search market in the U.S. is at 1.27%. They were able to get 50% more search queries since its inception in 2008. Finally, it was able to earn around $25 million from its yearly 24 million searches. According to WNIP, the website was able to get 49% more organic search visits across all types of devices. 64% of that was credited to mobile users. This reflected not only their rise in popularity, but a shift on privacy and how collection is collected on the internet. Aside from the rise in searches, it was predicted that they could have a surge in annual revenue as well. Medium reported that they would later reach up to $150 million a year. This is more than four times it earned now. ### Features In this section, let us explore howthis search engine stands out among its competitors. You can also learn how to use it by yourself as well. #### How DuckDuckGo manages your privacy In 2008, its search results were generated by using various other search APIs. Doing this reduces the information they need from the user. Then, they let go of tracking search history two years later. Removing this feature made them stand out even more against its competitors. Unlike [most search engines](https://alejandrorioja.com/easily-rank-on-google/) that store your search history and personal information, their goal is to deliver search results without making use of these. The company was aiming to avoid luring its users into a “[filter bubble](https://spreadprivacy.com/google-filter-bubble-study/)” using this information. A filter bubble is when a search engine shows a result based on this information. For example, if you used one which modified your results while you were researching candidates in the next election, this will influence your decision greatly with the rest who fell into the same bubble. Aside from the main website, DuckDuckGo is also released as a browser and mobile extension. While using either version, they can give a privacy grade rating between A to F. This will also help you learn how much a website is tracking you. Also Read: [How Google makes money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) #### Installing DuckDuckGo There are two ways to use the search engine. The first way is to directly go to [DuckDuckGo](http://duckduckgo.com) and use their search engine from there. As an alternative, you can access their website by installing their extension in [Chrome](https://help.duckduckgo.com/desktop/chrome), [Firefox](https://help.duckduckgo.com/desktop/firefox), [Internet Explorer](https://help.duckduckgo.com/desktop/internet-explorer), [Microsoft Edge](https://help.duckduckgo.com/desktop/microsoft-edge), [Opera](https://help.duckduckgo.com/desktop/opera), or [Safari](https://help.duckduckgo.com/desktop/safari). They also published themselves on the [Apple Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/duckduckgo-privacy-browser/id663592361) and [Google Pay Store](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.duckduckgo.mobile.android). #### DuckDuckGo’s available settings ![](/images/posts/inline/56e05d38-screenshot-duckduckgo.com-2020.07.02-14_24_11.png) The first tab in the settings is its general preferences that you can edit. From infinite scrolling to telling them about your experience, this is where you can change them. Aside from saving these locally, you can save this to the cloud. ![](/images/posts/inline/9af149f0-screenshot-duckduckgo.com-2020.07.02-14_25_07.png) If you want to change how the search engine looks to you, you go to the theme tab. This is where you can choose between six different appearance options. Aside from default, there is basic, contrast, dark, grey, and terminal. You can save these settings to the cloud as well. For more specific options, you can go to the appearance tab. As shown below, you can change various parts of the website, from its font size to showing the full URLs in search results. If you want to save these custom appearance settings, you can save it to the cloud. ![](/images/posts/inline/49038b5b-screenshot-duckduckgo.com-2020.07.02-14_25_57.png) The final tab has four different settings that have something to do with your privacy. It includes visiting an encrypted version of DuckDuckGo to disable redirection for older websites.  ![](/images/posts/inline/7a5bf281-screenshot-duckduckgo.com-2020.07.02-14_26_48.png) #### DuckDuckGo’s available syntax options Search syntax refers to what are the possible phrases you can enter into its search bar when looking up results from a search website. Aside from the [usual search operators](https://ahrefs.com/blog/google-advanced-search-operators/), you can use the following to filter your search even further: 1. Exclude (-) or include (+) a word in the search result 2. Adding category at the end of the phrase (e.g. images, videos, news) 3. Adding a backslash at the beginning of your search entry will help you get “I’m Feeling Lucky” results from DuckDuckGo 4. Specify a preferred format with filetype: or f: 5. Site-specific searches by using site: or s: 6. Toggle Safe Search (!safeon or !safeoff) 7. Specify a region (region:) #### Shortcuts you can use in DuckDuckGo The following is the list of keyboard shortcuts you can use in this search engine: 1. j/k or up/down arrows – navigate through individual results 2. Return or o – open the highlighted result 3. Cmd/Ctrl + Return – open highlighted result in the background 4. v – open highlighted result in a new tab 5. Return – when you press this after the result page loads, you can get to the top result link right away 6. d – perform a search from a highlighted result 7. left/right arrow – switch between tabs of search results 8. m – focus on the search results 9. Front slash (/) – jump to the search bar 10. t – go to the top of the page 11. s – accept “did you mean” suggestion #### What is DuckDuckGo bang search? This particular type of search is defined by using a phrase that has an exclamation point at the beginning of a search identifier. It can be used to search using a website’s internal search engine. They categorized at least [13,505 websites](https://duckduckgo.com/bang) under the following: **Entertainment** - Audio - Blogs - Comics - Events - Forum - Games - Misc - Movies - Music - Radio - Sports - TV **Multimedia** - Books - Docs - Games (General) - Images - Movies - Music - Video **News** - Aggregators - Broadcast - Business - International - Magazine - Newspaper - Online - Specialty - Weather **Online Services** - Events - Google - Jobs - Maps - Search - Social - Social News/links - Tools - Tracking **Research** - Academic - Food - Government - Health - Law - Learning - Local - Real Estate - Reference - Topical - Travel **Shopping** - Big Box/Department - Online - Services - Tech **Tech** - Blogs - Chakra - Companies - Cryptocurrency - Design - Domains - Downloads - Language - Libraries/Frameworks - Programming - Search - Startups - Sysadmin - Tools **Translation** - General - Google #### Instant answers in DuckDuckGo Similar to Google’s translate or currency exchange feature, if you look either phrase up, they also have a library of search shortcuts on this platform. The full list can be seen [here](https://duck.co/ia), which includes some of the following unique features: 1. 2048 (game) – play 2048 on DuckDuckGo 2. xkcd – read the latest xkcd comic on the platform 3. Shruggie & Friends – creates a copy-and-paste friendly version of the shrug kaomoji ( i.e. ¯\\\_(ツ)\_/¯ ) 4. BaconIpsum – generates a set number of BaconIpsum paragraphs for use as dummy text 5. Braille Translation – translate text to and from Braille Relevant: [Here’s how you can get your sitelinks ranked on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/) ## DuckDuckGo’s business model After learning how DuckDuckGo came to be and what it offers to its users, let us learn how it earns its money every year. ### Analyzing how DuckDuckGo earns They thought that they should find a way to make income without infringing on their user’s privacy. This is done in two steps: advertising and affiliate marketing. #### Advertising strategy They gain [ad revenue by inserting ads](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) on your search results. For example, if you entered “buy book” in their search bar, they add an advertisement for a website that sells books online as the first search result: ![](/images/posts/inline/ec70e8a9-pasted-image-0-32.png) If you are interested in being one of the many websites that they can advertise, you would have to do the following steps: 1. Create a Microsoft advertising account. 2. Sign in to Bing ads. 3. Click *campaigns*. 4. Click on your ad group’s name. 5. Go to the *settings* tab. 6. Go to *ad distribution.* 7. Make sure that the *search network* option is checked with *all searched networks*. 8. Click *save* once you have made any changes. With that said, most of DuckDuckGo was able to create advertisements through Bing and Yahoo. Even though it has a relatively small size compared to its competitors, this can be an advantage to businesses. A smaller size means that there is less competition to rank onto the top search results. #### Affiliate marketing This [type of marketing strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/) involves earning money while promoting someone else’s product or service on your channel. In DuckDuckGo’s case, they can earn a commission from partner businesses promoting their service. This is apparent when using their bang search feature, especially when searching for products through Amazon or Walmart utilizing this feature. While using their bang search feature, they made sure that no data will be exchanged between them and these third-party businesses. All the links are organic links, and it will not influence their ranking or relevancy in any way. In the example earlier, if you clicked in the section I have encircled below and bought the listed item, it is your way to help them earn money to keep their site open. This is on top of hiding your sensitive information from these sites at the same time. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wqpxSxnpJU8UVYAymiDijE1_jdgd9tbFU2b1fgMzjldeQOpNwIyY8_O5gveCyFNdePfD1uLPIkskwwycrjW6xACWUcUCHBvuGW2ke88Bx8kkDvgkjtsgCbLh0xpje3rB9hIpc78X) ## Wrapping up! After more than ten years, DuckDuckGo is able to establish itself as a unique search engine. Without relying on storing their user’s information, they are able to create a platform where users can get results without falling for a “filter bubble.” With that in mind, they were able to continue as a search engine in two ways. The first way is through advertising with the help of Microsoft. Meanwhile, they also gain profit through commissions of users buying products recommended on their platform too. Their presence not only makes them a frontrunner for a non-biased search engine but also reduces costs in storing data at the same time. Did this help you learn more about DuckDuckGo? Read my other articles about how other websites earned money: - [Paypal’s Revenue Scheme](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/)  - [How Netflix makes money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/)  - [Craigslist’s business model and revenue stream](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-craigslist-make-money/)   You can also comment below to let me know which website I should review next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) in 2026 — The Operator's Playbook Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/understanding-integrated-marketing-communication/ Published: 2020-07-02 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, Brand TL;DR: Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) coordinates every customer touchpoint — paid, earned, owned, social — around one brand voice and one strategic message. In 2026 the surface expanded: AI engines now summarize your brand from the text on your pages. The brands that win in ChatGPT and Gemini answers are the ones with the cleanest IMC. ## Table of contents Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) is the discipline of making every touchpoint — paid ads, organic search, social, email, podcast guesting, AI citations — say the same thing in the same brand voice. The framework predates digital marketing, but in 2026 it's more important than ever because **AI engines now summarize your brand from the consistency (or inconsistency) of your text**. This is the operator-grade 2026 walkthrough.
Integrated Marketing Communication
A coordinated approach to brand communications where every channel (paid, earned, owned, social, AI-cited) presents a unified message, voice, and positioning. Goal: the customer experiences one brand, not five disjointed ones.
## The five channels of IMC in 2026
  1. 01
    Paid media. Google Ads, Meta Ads Manager, LinkedIn, TikTok Spark Ads, podcast sponsorships. Where you pay for guaranteed message delivery.
  2. 02
    Earned media. PR placements, podcast guesting, conference talks, journalist coverage. Where someone else amplifies your message.
  3. 03
    Owned media. Your website, newsletter, app, in-product copy, customer support. Where you have full control.
  4. 04
    Social. Founder Twitter/X, LinkedIn presence, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube. Where your team (not just a brand account) carries the voice.
  5. 05
    AI engine citation — new in 2024+. ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Gemini summarizing your brand. Where the model decides what your brand "stands for" based on your text.
## What changed in 2024–2025
IMC in 2020

Coordinate four channels (paid / earned / owned / social) around one brand voice. Goal: customer recognizes you across touchpoints.

IMC in 2026

Coordinate five channels — plus a sixth shadow channel: how ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini summarize your brand from the text on your pages. The cleaner your IMC, the more accurately AI engines describe you.

## Why IMC is now an AI citation play When someone asks ChatGPT "what does [your company] do?", the model isn't reading your homepage. It's reading the *sum of every page* it's indexed about you — your blog posts, third-party reviews, podcast transcripts, news mentions. If those sources say five slightly different things about your positioning, the AI engine summarizes you ambiguously. If they all say the same thing, the AI engine confidently positions you. ## The 4-block IMC framework
1 · Voice
  • Tone (operator vs corporate)
  • Vocabulary (your specific terms)
  • Sentence structure preference
  • Formal / casual / opinionated
·
2 · Message
  • One-line positioning
  • The three proof points
  • The "vs" comparison frame
  • The customer insight
3 · Visual
  • Logo, color, typography
  • Image style (photography vs illustration)
  • OG card template
  • Video aesthetic
·
4 · Distribution
  • Channels in priority order
  • Cadence per channel
  • Who carries the voice
  • Approval / review loop
If you can fill those four blocks for your brand in one page, you have an IMC strategy. If it takes six pages of brand guidelines, you're building bureaucracy not strategy. ## Real-world examples in 2026
  1. 01
    Notion. Same voice across the product, the docs, the blog, the @NotionHQ Twitter, and the founder's LinkedIn — quietly enthusiastic, design-led, no jargon. Ask any AI engine to describe Notion: you get nearly identical summaries because the IMC is tight.
  2. 02
    Linear. Even tighter than Notion. Every page on linear.app reinforces "fast, opinionated, made for teams who care about craft." Ask ChatGPT — the description matches.
  3. 03
    Stripe. Across docs, the blog, the API responses, founder/team writing, conference talks — "infrastructure for the internet economy" is the unifying message. The IMC predates the term as a brand standard.
These aren't accidents. Each company has dedicated brand/comms roles and review processes ensuring every touchpoint reinforces the same things. ## How to audit your IMC in 2026
  1. 01
    The one-sentence test. Ask ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini to describe your business in one sentence. Save the four answers. Score on consistency.
  2. 02
    The five-channel audit. Pull a recent example from each of your paid / earned / owned / social / AI channels. Are they saying the same thing? In the same voice?
  3. 03
    The team-quote check. Ask three people on your team (not in marketing) what your company does. If you get three meaningfully different sentences, you have an internal-comms IMC problem before you can fix the external one.
  4. 04
    The schema check. Your Organization JSON-LD, your social meta tags, your llms.txt — these are the structured-data versions of IMC. Make sure they all say the same thing.
## What I'd actually do (operator playbook) For a startup or growth-stage company in 2026: 1. **Write the one-sentence positioning** (10 words max). Put it on the homepage hero. 2. **Repeat that exact sentence** in your llms.txt, your Organization JSON-LD description, your X/LinkedIn bio, and your podcast guest pitch template. 3. **Audit a Linear-style or Notion-style example brand** to see what tight IMC looks like in practice. 4. **Make founder/team writing carry the same voice** as the brand account. Don't have five different voices; have one voice spoken through several accounts. 5. **Re-run the four-engine consistency test quarterly.** If AI summaries diverge, your IMC is drifting. ## Bottom line IMC was a 1990s framework. In 2026 it's more important than ever because AI engines summarize your brand from the consistency of your text. The brands that win in ChatGPT and Gemini answers are the ones whose IMC is tightest — every channel says the same thing in the same voice. The 2026 IMC test isn't whether your ads match your billboards. It's whether ChatGPT and Claude describe you the same way. > Related: [Brand strategy in 2026](/what-is-top-of-mind-awareness-toma/) · [GEO consulting →](/generative-engine-optimization-consultant/) · [Marketing myopia](/marketing-myopia-one-of-the-reasons-businesses-fail/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## A Definite Guide To Cost Leadership Strategy: Tips & Tricks Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/a-guide-to-cost-leadership-strategy/ Published: 2020-07-01 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Business ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. While researching for my articles about [fleet management](https://theinsurancenerd.com/why-do-trucking-companies-need-fleet-management-software/), I came across a business strategy that could be extremely beneficial for your future ventures – the cost leadership strategy. When choosing a strategy, keep your business, your product offering, and your business objective in mind. Next, you should implement the strategy the right way. Make sure there are no hiccups while implementing the strategy and that it is helping your business.  A lot of companies follow the cost leadership strategy. In this article, I will explain why and how you can apply it in your way. First, let me inspire you with this short YouTube message for you to open shop: ## Definition of cost leadership The main idea of this strategy centers on setting an example for its future competitors to reduce prices for its consumers. It will help the [business sell its products and services](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) while fulfilling customers’ needs without asking too much from them. If done right, this strategy can help you stay on top of your target market. Make sure that your target audience is the one who is sensitive to price.  However, keep in mind that it is not the same as aiming to sell your products at a lower price. Cost in this aspect is referred to the resources used to put your product or service on the market. Here the price is referred to as how much the customer has to pay for it. ### Benefits of applying cost leadership I will explore why it is a good idea to center your business on this strategy. This list will help convince you to apply it in your way: 1. This strategy, if used correctly, will help your business cover even the smallest development and production costs. With this in effect, you can increase your higher profit margins by the day. 2. Aside from higher profit margins, you can keep your customers coming back to your store. This means that they trust the value they can get due to the quality of your products and services at a lower price than your competitors. 3. During an emergency that can hinder businesses around the area, keeping your costs low will help you have extra funds to prepare yourself against it. 4. Speaking of having additional funds, this also applies to have more money to invest in more products and services or expand your ease of doing business. 5. Intimidate your competitors as they would have to invest time, energy, and money to match you in cost and quality. ### Downsides of applying cost leadership As with all strategies, do take note that you can also experience the following if you do not apply this strategy the right way to your business: 1. Don’t skimp on customer service and R&D. Reducing your resources in this aspect will reduce your chances of keeping your [potential customer base](https://alejandrorioja.com/grow-customer-base/). Decreasing research and development will slow down your growth due to old products and new technologies. 2. Once your competitors see you apply this strategy, you only have a short window to keep yourself on top. This means you have to put in enough effort to stay competitive towards them while providing a cheaper alternative to your customers. 3. You need to sell tons of your products and services to your customers. The strategy dictates that you would have to have lots of avenues where anyone can get them, thus having one branch will not be enough. ## Real-life examples After learning why you should or shouldn’t apply this strategy, let’s take a look at companies that implemented this strategy. ### McDonald’s ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/hQqmZq9EFa9rmYdHDftLkr_bCKajS7dMtwKlEIvX_xoamEKg-6sCup_Ky6xPr3-9Bekqyp7Wak2jhr9AqiAUzlM63scaNN1TSsVTWSieCfUyMr0bz19a-84f52FdNAYnqPFqW9Vt) Home to the McSpaghetti and McBurger, McDonald’s has over 37,000 locations across more than 120 countries. Aside from being one of the quickest ways to get a bite to eat, they were able to harness this massive market [to earn a](https://www.fool.com/investing/2017/06/03/how-mcdonalds-corporation-makes-most-of-its-money.aspx) 20% profit margin in 2016. Most of its profit can be attributed to its franchising business model. How this idea works is that they let a franchisee operate the branch they are working in. In return, the company earns through royalty fees and rental fees. With this, they were able to save in operating costs from maintaining buildings to renovations. Aside from that, it forced their competitors, such as [Burger King](https://www.bk.com/) and [Taco Bell](https://www.tacobell.com/), to reevaluate their expansion strategies. ### ALDI ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/klCXOjurOm7cKRT1IFYbwiCDrTuq3_Jru_Nd6r_Cr-T8y8ru8jX9cCjKvxZYjGEFZGUUBPSWTtGPE7xy024ovs2-gC608Kd4U_6QB_0suFiI39tekedL0eOi2Pr5b_u8HfOE_i5j) This German discount supermarket chain is a combination of ALDI Nord and ALDI Süd. Aside from providing goods to other European countries, Nord is seen in northern Germany while Süd is in the south. How they were able to apply this strategy includes stocking non-perishable products and removing [slow sellers from the shelves](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). Alongside year-round discounts, they limit their opening hours and encourage their customers to bring reusable shopping bags to put their items. With this, they are one of Walmart’s strongest competitors. On the downside, they are still neck-in-neck due to their range of products. ### Amazon ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Hq2ZkQzHpK3epca9TmgSOuPjdXGBar0AjSfueXO7SzzFf_w_9kwz1qFU7bqnZW5ns7K6ln3__NYHBghFEJ74M_VbqO644iSl2doroJD90Du0lDqp5UVAUNJqjZsqkOwD_3EK23xR) Known as one of the biggest online retailers today, they were [able to capture](https://www.fool.com/investing/2019/02/19/how-amazon-actually-makes-money.aspx) around half of the total online sales in the U.S. last year. With this, they were able to earn over $200 billion from their global customers. Expanding thoroughly into the online retail market after starting as a small brick-and-mortar store was their strategy. They were able to keep their operating income low by spending their income on operating expenses and sales. Aside from selling products such as the Amazon Echo and Amazon Web Services, they also put up a paid service for third-party sellers to post their products. This way, they were able to save costs in putting up products and be concerned with warehousing and distribution. Their efforts increased online competition amongst online retail stores. Aside from that, this increased the number of options a customer can get a quality product at the lowest price possible. ## Tips for implementing cost leadership strategy As you can see from the previous section, many companies have succeeded in bringing this strategy into their own hands. I will now share with you how you can apply it to your own business. ### Determine the most efficient procurement strategy Procurement is a formal term for the process of getting items or services from someone in the name of a business. This means that you should monitor from the list of possible sources of materials to produce your product to how it will be delivered to you. You would have to consider the following: 1. How close is the source from your business 2. Manufacturing capabilities of the source 3. Supply chain capabilities of the source 4. Relationship between you and the source 5. Payment schedules between you and the source ### Opt for a cookie-cutter approach When deciding which products or services to offer, limit it to only one when starting. Doing it this way will help you establish yourself above the rest. Businesses are successful if they can deliver their niche with the best customer experience. This includes how you get the raw materials to manufacture it to how fast you can provide the final product to your customer. After mastering one product, this is when you can expand your offering to your current customer base. Make sure to be as thorough as you have been with your first product and service when introducing a new product in the market. This will help your business keep its momentum. ### Continually lower your operations cost Remember that the overall goal for you to make a profit is to increase the cost-price ratio. With that in mind, think about the factors that will help keep it high. Make sure to think of an efficient way to produce your products and provide your services. Also, remember that the bigger your company grows, you should make sure the costs are low. This way, you can expand your customer reach while creating more chances to make a profit. ### Increase Production Scale For this tip, you should think about how to extend the limit where you can produce your product or service. This starts with the first customer need you want to satisfy. Doing this will help you gain an excellent reputation around your company and your brand. Aside from that, you can also learn the foundation of how you should develop, produce, and sell your present and future products. Another advantage of continuously upgrading your company in this aspect can also be a strong defense against possible competitors. This increases the share you can get from your potential market at the same time. There are three steps to fulfill this goal. It composes of managing the technology, raw materials, and operating efficiency. #### Step # 1. Implementing advanced tools Technology, in this sense, involves two things. First, it is the tools you would have to invest in producing your product or service. Second, tracking technology. Before manufacturing, make sure that the equipment used is provided by a trustworthy local supplier. Doing this will help lower maintenance and replacement costs at the same time. Finally, put a robust quality control system in place. This includes having a local database of information to a supply management system. Doing this will help increase customer satisfaction while attracting more markets. You can also opt to support a local supplier of your business equipment by buying their technology or taking the entire company under your wing. This way, you can stay at the forefront of your industry while letting their efforts be recognized. Creating a patent for the technology you use in your manufacturing process can also be an option in this step. Doing this may involve investing heavily in custom-made tools. However, it will be rewarded to a broader market range in the end. #### Step # 2. Sourcing raw materials Remember that I mentioned earlier about choosing the right supplier? Choosing your list of suppliers fulfills the goal to get as many raw materials as possible within a specific timeframe. After learning which ones you should partner up with to sustain your business strategy, come to an agreement on the production timeline. This way, both sides can stay prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that may occur. Take note that you should also focus on lowering delivery costs, especially if your item will cost more due to the local supplier you have chosen. Doing this will also spur your competitors into action, thus setting your own pace of growth and avoiding any obstacle. #### Step # 3. Improving efficiency As a way of keeping your cost leadership strategy stable, you must always be on your toes when it comes to improving business operations. This happens every moment your business is open to the public. Designing a product can be efficient by investing properly in your research and development plans. This tip includes answering the following questions: 1. Who will manufacture the product? 2. What is the product? 3. When can you manufacture the product? 4. Where is the manufacturing facility for the product? 5. Why should your customers buy your product? 6. How will the product be manufactured? Next, focus on how you want your customers to learn about your product. Whether it would be word-of-mouth or having a large advertisement plastered in the heart of the city, [the marketing strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) will help you sell it to the masses. While you are selling the product, think about the quality of the service you provide to your customers. This includes the format of how you answer their questions about your product. Handling this well and in an efficient manner will help boost your presence at the same time. A critical factor in maintaining your strategy as systematic is through regular reporting mechanisms. Risk analysis, projections, and cost tracking are some of the many reports you would have to make and review. This will also help strengthen your business strategy too. Relevant: [Marketing stories you should read](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/) ## Wrapping up! This article helped you learn about cost leadership that current and future businesses can apply as a strategy. It centers around efficiency and cost reduction at a constant rate. Even if you would mean a higher profit ratio and a decreased risk of competition, you could lose if you slowed down or did not sell as much as you did. Take care when applying any of these tips, and it will all work out. Is this article helpful for your business? If so, do read my other articles about establishing a business: - [Twitter marketing for your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-twitter-marketing/)  - [2020 growth hacking stories](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/)  - [Use Anticipatory Design to Wow Your Customers](https://flux.la/anticipatory-design/) Comment below on your thoughts on how you tried any of my tips! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Paypal Make Money? Revenue Strategy Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-paypal-make-money/ Published: 2020-06-29 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Business, SEO TL;DR: It has been predicted that twenty years from now, around 95% of all our purchases will be made online. Meanwhile, during the next year, e-commerce’s share will increase by 72.9%. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. It [has been predicted](https://99firms.com/blog/ecommerce-statistics/#gref) that twenty years from now, around 95% of all our purchases will be made online. Meanwhile, [during the next year](https://99firms.com/blog/ecommerce-statistics/#gref), e-commerce’s share will increase by 72.9%. At this stage, one of the most popular platforms used today is PayPal. It is one of the millions of accessible online platforms that can help you exchange money domestically as well as across borders. In this article, I will explore how PayPal has earned money through its millions of users. The article will also help us learn how PayPalcan continue its service as a third party app to help conduct over a million transactions per day. Before exploring their services in detail, do watch this article that will help you start your own ecommerce business: ## What is Paypal? ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HlEMJ3meW4BUXy_r8xHluFHzpeEqbSARmTFcAayWQo9Uy919AmkO3nC_afED57EOJolgU20YqAcSCrbDoBi0w5fVveemIxd-vfTaT6bl_dtZkiXBzdRzhIdeoBms81v6_WuCiKzu) [PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/us/home) is an online service that can help you send and receive money from anywhere in the world. Once you create an account with them, you are given an account number that can be linked to up to eight email accounts. These linked emails will help you hide your real identity to others during these transactions. You would also have to provide a credit card or bank account for you to withdraw and provide money through the platform. Whether you sign up for a [Personal](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/how-paypal-works/overview) or a [Business](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/merchant) account, you can be assured of the following benefits: 1. Exchange money within 190 countries worldwide 2. Use your account to pay for your online purchases conveniently and quickly 3. Receive and spend money in almost any currency 4. Offer PayPal as a payment option for your clients and customers 5. Protect payments exchanged between you and the receiver 6. Set up future payments for future transactions 7. Make a list of invoices for each transaction done on the platform 8. Generate all your financial reports from account history to tax documents ## Income sources of PayPal After learning the various advantages of owning a PayPal account, let us explore how this online payment processor earns money and keeps its services open. ### Transaction fees You can use your PayPal account to pay for most online and offline services. This account can be used in various ways: from buying items from [multiple e-commerce websites](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/) to exchanging money from clients. However, you would have to pay if you are using your account to sell a product or service. ### Standard fees for business owners This rate that your account has to shoulder depends on two things. The first is whether the transaction was done online or in person. It is also determined on which location the PayPal account was created. In any online transaction, each transaction would require you to pay a fixed fee based on the currency used. If the paying account is from the United States, you would have to pay 2.9% of the total transaction amount. Meanwhile, if it was from outside, this rate is increased to 4.4%. In-store purchases do not require you to pay a fixed fee. However, you will still be charged depending on the amount the customer used to pay. You will be charged 2.7% of the transaction amount for a paying account in the U.S. while it would be 4.2% for any other account. If your products and services are priced not over $10, you would have to pay for micropayment fees. After [qualifying](https://www.paypal.com/webapps/mpp/ua/useragreement-full?locale.x=en_US#micropayments-fees) for this type of transaction, you would have to pay a fee for each person who bought. A microtransaction from a U.S. account would require you to pay 5% of the total amount plus an amount based on the currency used. Meanwhile, a transaction from an account outside the U.S. would have 6.5% instead of a fixed fee. Also Read: [Shopify or Etsy? Which one should choose](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/) ### Standard fees for charitable organizations If you are going to receive amounts from PayPal accounts for charitable purposes such as a food drive or to build a public pet hospital, you would still have to pay for fees per transfer to your account. This involves paying a fixed fee based on the currency, similar to paying an online store purchase. However, a fee of 2.2% of the total amount in the transaction made in an account from the U.S. while it would be 3.7% for accounts in other countries. ## PayPal business There are three different packages that you can opt for your Business account. These will allow your customers to pay for purchases directly to your account. If you want to give your customers a recurring billing option, you would have to pay $10 per month to use this service. Aside from that, you can pay an additional $10 and $0.05 per transaction for their advanced fraud protection services. Buyer authentication also costs $10 per month and a fee of $0.10 per transaction. When you use other online merchants using PayPal, you also have the following fees: 1. Currency conversions fee: 3.0% 2. International transaction fee: 1.5% 3. [Chargeback fees](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/merchant-fees#chargeback-fees) 4. Uncaptured authorization fee: $0.30 per transaction 5. Card verification fee: $0.30 per transaction 6. American ExpressⓇ card usage fees: 3.5% per transaction using PayPal Payments Pro, PayPal Payments Advanced, and Virtual Terminal 7. [PayPal Payouts and Mass Pay Fees](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/merchant-fees) 8. Swiped and check-in transaction fee: 2.7% 9. Keyed or scanned transaction fee: 3.5% + $0.15 10. International fee using PayPal’s mobile card reader: 2.7% per swipe with 1.5% cross-border fee with or without 2.5% currency conversion ### PayPal checkout This is a free package that can be availed with your PayPal Business account. With this package, you can integrate your current account with your [e-commerce provider of choice](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/). Also, you can get checkout buttons and specialized payment methods (available for Europeans only). ### PayPal payments standard PayPal Payments Standard can be availed for free as well. It opens you to more unique features, such as paying through credit or debit cards and special financing options. Aside from that, it can also increase your range of customers to 202 countries and 25 currencies. ### PayPal payments pro Finally, this package is PayPal’s premier package for [any business owner](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/). For $30 per month, you can get the following: 1. Customized checkout pages 2. Accept payments through phone, fax, or mail 3. Provide a recurring billing for your customers Aside from that, you would also have to pay the following fees: 1. U.S. fees: For each transaction, pay 2.9% plus $0.30 2. International fees: For each transaction, pay 4.4% plus a fixed fee 3. Virtual Terminal - Domestic: 3.1% plus $0.30 per transaction - Cross-border: 4.6% plus $0.30 per transaction  4. Transactions using American ExpressⓇ cards: For each transaction, 3.5% ### PayPal’s payflow payment pateway ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/SLXRuSbEEAU4zuCrpIOfpHy3ttLOCHw3DkPRk76zcKsNoaGFiLicCPMi3nsiIogc5RYD-k6uhsZreikkYylc-J7_6I9YXDLqEowDgamMiZCJqh6R0eixmIeWGWUeYIJXxOT0R0pK) Unlike the first three options, PayPal allows those with business accounts to process payments through major credit cards, major debit cards, PayPal, and PayPal Credit. You only have to pay $0.10 per transaction done by any of your customers when you sign up for this service. This also includes mobile payment support, accepting payments in 25 currencies, and exchanging money in 202 countries. The first plan you can get under this service is called Payflow Link. You don’t have to pay extra per month before availing of this service. You get a secure, PCI-compliant website that you can customize using a template or use their default version. Payflow Pro, on the other hand, requires you to pay $25 per month. For this plan, you can create a customized checkout experience, unlike the Payflow Link. You can offer PayPal Credit to your customers as well. You would need to pay an extra $99 to set up your account for Payflow Pro as well. Do take note that any currency conversions and any international payment have fees that apply per transaction as well. It is 2.5% and 1% respectively. Aside from being able to use these features, you can connect with fellow businesses by joining their PayPal Partner Program. You can also get discounts, marketing support, and technical tools for your entire team. ## Withdrawing money from your PayPal account In this section, I will discuss the difference in fees that you will incur while transferring your PayPal account balance to somewhere else. Do take note that you can claim your money through a standard or an instant transfer. Money sent  through standard transfer would have it transferred the next business day. Instant transfers can help you get the money into your bank account or debit card. There are limits to each transfer as well. Do check [here](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/paypal-fees) for Personal accounts while [this](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/merchant-fees) can help you if you have a business account. If you want to transfer your balance through a standard transfer, you do not have to pay any fee for the transaction. However, using instant transfer to add an amount to your linked debit card or bank account would have a fee of 1% of the amount transferred that can cost only up to $10. ## Encashing checks through PayPal Performing a withdrawal from check to cash would also require paying a fee. This can be accessed through the mobile PayPal application under the “cash a check” feature. Encashing this check can be free if you opt to wait for ten days for it to come. However, there will be fees if you want to get it in minutes. They charge you 1% for a payroll and government check with a pre-printed signature. Meanwhile, a minimum of $5 to 5% for any other accepted checks. ## P2P payment withdrawal fees This feature can only be accessed through [PayPal.Me](https://www.paypal.me/). It is a one-sided transfer that helps  a person send payments directly to a PayPal account. If the transaction involves using your PayPal balance or bank account, you don’t need to pay a fee if you are sending it to a PayPal U.S. account. For using a credit or debit card, you would have to pay 2.9% of the total amount plus $0.30. The person who gets the money in either transaction has to pay a fee. ## Sending money using PayPal This function is reserved for personal account holders. With that in mind, it is categorized in two ways. They judge the fees depending on where the sender’s account is made and the source of the amount to be sent. ### Sending to a U.S. PayPal account Moving money between two different U.S. accounts using PayPal Cash, PayPal Cash Plus, or linked bank account does not incur a fee. Meanwhile, if you use a credit card, debit card, or PayPal Credit, you will have to pay 2.9% of the total amount and a fixed fee. ### Sending to a PayPal account outside the U.S. With a PayPal account that is not in the U.S., how the fees are calculated is different. If you are sending it to a person using your PayPal balance or a linked bank account, there is a transaction fee. It costs between $0.99 to $4.99. Meanwhile, using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal credit would need a transaction and funding fee. The latter costs 2.9% of the total amount to be sent at a fixed price. After that, you would have to pay between $0.99 to $4.99. ## Earning interest from maintaining a balance in your PayPal account While your account balance is not zero or negative, the money you left untouched is being used for maintaining the service. PayPal combines this balance with the other untouched balances from other users and uses it for  liquid investments. Doing so  helps PayPal follow the state money transmitter laws. They claim that any profit earned through this will only be used to keep the service open and active and serve as an emergency.  ## Paypal working capital fee If you are thinking about opening a new business or expanding your organization, you can also apply for their small loans service. They offer up to 15% of your last 12 months of PayPal sales. It can only reach up to $85,000 while there is a fixed fee with no interest. If you do not pay this back,PayPal automatically reduces your profit per day until you have repaid the entire loan. This is computed depending on how much you set a percentage of your daily sales towards repaying this. ## Other companies PayPal has acquired and collaborated with Aside from these features, the company also has four other platforms from where they earn money.  1. [Braintree](https://braintreepayments.com/) was acquired by PayPal in 2013. They are another payment processing service that is mostly known for their mobile user base. 2. The second company is called [Venmo](https://venmo.com/), a popular service among millennials. This company was acquired by Braintree back in 2012 for $26.2 million. They are a payment app where they allow [peer-to-peer sharing of money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/). 3. Meanwhile, the [Paydiant Platform](https://developer.paypal.com/docs/) is known as a mobile wallet solution. They are touted for merchants, banks, resellers, distributors, point-of-sale providers, and ATM providers. 4. Finally, the fourth company they have acquired is called [Xoom](https://www.xoom.com/). It is known for its money transfer, bills payment, and mobile reloading services between the U.S. to 66 countries. They have also partnered with [Xero and Woocommerce](https://docs.woocommerce.com/document/xero/). It is included in the latter’s platform as an extension of its services. With it, you can deploy an all-in-one e-commerce website. They earn through  this partnership and through affiliate commissions. ## Debit card withdrawal fees Once you sign up for a PayPal account, you can also request and claim a PayPal Business Debit MastercardⓇ. Aside from access, you can also get a 1% cashback on eligible purchases and withdraw your balance from ATMs. While using the card, you have to pay the following fees: 1. ATM Domestic Withdrawal fee – $1.50 per ATM withdrawal within U.S. 2. Teller assisted withdrawal fee – $3.00 per signature if it was used to get cash 3. ATM international withdrawal fee: $1.50 per withdrawal from a non-U.S. machine 4. Foreign transaction fee – 1% of the purchase amount from a foreign merchant, 1% of the withdrawal amount at a foreign ATM ## PayPal credit interest As mentioned earlier, [PayPal Credit](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/terms/paypal-credit) is a service where customers can pay for an item in advance in any store that accepts it. At the start, you get a credit line of at least $250. If you purchased something for $98.99 or less, you have the option to pay the balance in full each month before the deadline. Aside from that, you can ask to pay a minimum every month until your balance has been paid. Any purchase that exceeds$99 will help you save more money. PayPal waives the interest if paid in full by six months. If you get this penalty, you will be charged at least $2 for the interest. Your late fee is up to $39 too. ## PayPal Here The final service I will be talking about in this article is their [PayPal Here](https://www.paypal.com/webapps/mpp/credit-card-reader) service.  After creating an account with PayPal, you can get a free card reader for your small business. Due to its acceptance of major credit and debit cards, do keep in mind the following fees: 1. U.S. card swipe – 2.7% 2. Keying cards – 3.5% + $0.15 3. Invoice – 2.9% + $0.30 4. Cross-border transfers – 1.5% ## Bottom line PayPal is a global payment service that can help from buying clothes from merchants to buying stock for your own home kitchen.  In this article, we have explored the channels through which they earn money as well as keep their services alive. From transaction fees to affiliate commissions, they have various sources of income to expand their customer base and maintain it. Did this article help you? Read my other articles on how they can earn money: - [How does Netflix earn](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/) - [Shopify Revenue Facts and Figures](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/)  - [Craigslist – Revenue Stats](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-craigslist-make-money/)  Comment below on what you think about how Paypal earns its money. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Shopify Makes Money? Understanding Their Monetization Scheme Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-shopify-makes-money/ Published: 2020-06-23 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business TL;DR: This $9 plan allows you to use Messenger chats act as your primary communication tool, allow you to sell on both online and offline channels, and create and send invoices. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* If you would ask the internet or read articles about one eCommerce platform or program they would recommend, then undoubtedly many will answer [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/).  The company is a strong contender for one of the best online selling platforms today, for a good reason. The power and functionality it provides are, in my opinion, well worth over the price.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) has seemingly deciphered the almighty eCommerce code. Its founder-CEO, is well, let’s say [quite wealthy](https://www.forbes.com/sites/angelauyeung/2019/08/20/shopify-cracks-the-e-commerce-code-and-its-billionaire-ceos-fortune-doubles-in-just-six-months/#4492b7a27f57) now, and the company evolved to a household name when it comes to online store building.  So now let’s understand what is [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), and how does it make money? But first, you would like to check the video below: ## What is Shopify?  ![](/images/posts/inline/1070648f-hhhh.jpg) [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is a comprehensive, feature-rich, and paid eCommerce store builder that lets you build, manage, and scale an online or offline store. Just like competitors such as BigCommerce, Magento, Volusion, and Squarespace, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) promises to deliver exceptional value and fantastic user experience.  Right off the bat, you will get the benefit of a robust store builder, full of everything you need to run an online business, even when only at the cheapest plan. More features are unlocked as you go along the pricing tiers, such as professional reports, report builders, and shipping rates from third parties.  With more than 70 payment gateways and 50 languages integrated into its system, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) makes it easy to sell your wares just about anywhere in the world. With intuitive content management tools and a whole marketing suite, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is one of the leading platforms to sell your merchandise.  ### What Is Shopify lite?  ![](/images/posts/inline/8aba3263-gggg.jpg) [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) lite is an entirely separate plan that will let you sell without the use of an online store. This $9 plan allows you to use Messenger chats act as your primary communication tool, allow you to sell on both online and offline channels, and create and send invoices.  You can [sell through social media](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) or embed a buy button on any of your sites with this plan. The Lite plan comes with the essential point of sale, Facebook, and the buy button sales channels.  Do note that the Lite plan does not let you build an online store.  ### What is Shopify point of sale?  ![](/images/posts/inline/5bbc2789-screenshot-www.shopify.com-2020.06.23-13_50_18.png) The term “point of sale (POS)” is mostly heard in correlation with retail stores, and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) also delves with selling offline, hence it is both an online and offline store builder. The POS app lets you accept payments using your mobile device. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS helps you manage the selling of products through a physical channel, be it in a store, trade shows, conventions, and the like. ## Shopify features  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) has a wealth of features to make the overall experience more positive and smoother. Here are some of the noteworthy functions and features of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/).  ### Great back-office tools  ![](/images/posts/inline/06d1e9b4-overview.jpg) [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) gives you access to analytics and reports that highlight how well your store is performing. The best part is how accessible and easy navigating the reports are.  You can take a look at the best products you have in terms of performance, or check how many orders you have at a glance. You can even view in real-time what stage in the selling funnel your visitors are in.   There are more, and they will most probably not fit in this article. That just proves how comprehensive this tool is.  ### Themes  ![](/images/posts/inline/43c46005-screenshot-themes.shopify.com-2020.06.23-13_55_56.png) Shopify contains both free and premium themes, so you can surely find the look that will fit your store the most. The themes are also fully customizable, so you can fiddle around with the page, depending on how you want it to look.  ### Cloud-based A website made through [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) would live in a cloud network instead of a server. Servers are prone to crashing at times and will result in some severe downtimes where your store earns no money.   If you share a server with another site, well, you just have to hope and pray they won’t get an influx of traffic and break not only one, but two websites.  A cloud-based server effectively removes this problem, the odds of your site going down are significantly lowered. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) bundles this service into their subscription plans, so setting up the cloud-based server is one thing less to worry about.  ### Apps  ![](/images/posts/inline/15ed26ec-screenshot-apps.shopify.com-2020.06.23-13_57_42.png) The [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) App Store contains tons of apps for just about anything you might need in your online store. You’ll find product sourcing apps, countdown timers, image manipulation tools, and many more.   There are both free and paid apps, and some free to install apps may require a separate subscription altogether. Adding apps isn’t necessary, but the option is readily available for those who want to.  ### Help and support  ![](/images/posts/inline/b68bb997-hga.jpg) The support environment and ecosystem in [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) are vast. You can see that [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) wants their program to be accessible, and for its users to succeed.   They have their blog, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Academy, which are mostly free eCommerce lessons, and customer support agents are ready to answer any of your questions. There are even many online communities built by other users aiming to help the newcomers.  ### How does Shopify work? [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) hosts your online store, meaning that you do not own the space, but you can use it as long as you’d like.   You can customize your storefront through themes, and customize the colors, pictures, arrangement, and overall appearance of said theme. They also have a payment processing function and a dropshipping option to further augment your store needs.  First, design your storefront, and add products to the inventory. Afterward, test your website to see if it works for both mobile and desktop devices.  Then, go all out on promoting your products. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) admin allows you to view the activities of a site visitor, whether they are adding a product to cart or finishing a purchase.   Upon a purchase, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) processes the payment, and you will get paid accordingly. The service also handles the shipping of the item.   After this, the cycle starts again. You can access [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) reports along the process to understand your customers better.    [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) does not only host your online store, but it also gives you insights on how well your shop is faring and the metrics you can look at to improve your business.  ### What can you sell on Shopify? [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) generally allows you to sell all kinds of products, ranging from the common to the niche. Here are some of the examples.  1. Jewelry 2. Clothing 3. Home accessories 4. Maternity products  5. Travel products 6. Kitchenware  7. Beauty products 8. Services  9. Digital goods  10. And so much more.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) has strict policies in regardingwhat you cannot sell, too. Generally, they are unlawful, illegal, or regulated.  1. Firearms, and their spare parts  2. Counterfeit goods 3. Products related to gambling  4. Drug paraphernalia 5. Adult sex products 6. Tickets to events  7. Certain high-risk and technical services, such as lawyers, telecommunications equipment, etc.  8. And many others.   ## Sources of revenue [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) offers services at as low as $29 per month. Theoretically, all of its customers can only sign up for the $29-plan.  For sure, not everyone uses the $29 subscription plan. But between covering the cost of their services, maintaining hundreds of thousands of user accounts, and many more operating costs, the money they generate might not be enough.  So, what does [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) do? How does it earn money enough to turn over a profit?  First, let’s look at a brief history of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), and how it grew from its humble beginnings to the multi-billion dollar company it is now.  ### History of Shopify Tobias Lutke, Scott Lake, and Daniel Weinand founded Snowdevil in 2004, an online store that caters to snowboarding and its enthusiasts.  The trio is quite dissatisfied with the situation of the eCommerce markets and stores back then.  Their solution? They built their own.  Lutke is a computer programmer by profession, so he used his expertise, along with the application Ruby on Rails to develop Snowdevil.  Those same Snowdevil founders launched the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) platform in June 2006. This is their answer to the lacking online store development niche at that time. All that is now history. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) grew, eventually went public, sold its shares both on the New York and Toronto Stock Exchanges, and is now a company worth [billions](https://www.macrotrends.net/stocks/charts/SHOP/shopify/net-worth).  The frustration of the founders found a great solution to a problem. They wanted a store builder that functions well and is visually vibrant.   As their clientele grew, the founders [added services to give more functionality](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/), as well as contacted developers to create their apps and themes. They sought to create a healthy ecosystem where their product, the users, and the developers work together, and they did just that.  They are now even competing with the likes of big brands such as Amazon with their [fulfillment service](https://news.shopify.com/introducing-shopify-fulfillment-network). [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), in my opinion, is a great company. They do not seem greedy; they offer services for a relatively lower cost, especially when compared to [third-party providers](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/).  You get a cloud-hosted site, unlimited bandwidth, a free domain name, payment processing, and many more functionalities.  How does [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) earn money while giving out this so much value? Relevant: [Shopify or Amazon – which one should you choose?](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/)  ### Revenue through subscription sales  ![](/images/posts/inline/3aa76e1a-dddd-1.jpg) These are the pricing tiers available in [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and is the center of their subscription-based plans. Most merchants pay for the two cheapest tiers, the Basic and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) plans.  Aside from these three, there is the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus plan. The enterprise-grade program is for the largest of businesses with large sales amounts and high-volumes of inventory.  This premium plan offers more scalability, support, and functionality, at an understandably much higher cost.  The bulk of the gross merchandise volume of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is nestled within the Advanced [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus plans. This means that the majority of the dollar amounts come from stores that have subscribed for either the Advanced [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) or the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus plans.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) also reports that customer retention, that is, the willingness of the client to stay with the service, is the highest in the Plus plan.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus is used by brands such as Kylie Cosmetics, Unilever, MVMT, and many more. In its earlier years, Shopify services around 5,300 enterprise-grade accounts, and are critical drivers of merchant service and subscription revenues.  The enterprise accounts are also much more stable because the clients typically pay for extended periods such as annually or multi-year. Unless they are canceled, those plans are automatically renewed.  For example, let’s take the Basic plan, priced at $29, and assume that 500,000 are under that plan. That is $14,500,000 per month, and $174,000,000 per year, all on the basic plan alone.  The figures are made up, but you get the idea. That is a lot of money.   And consumers will be hesitant to look for another service. After all, what do you get with $29?  1. A functional online store with blog and eCommerce features 2. Cloud web hosting 3. Unlimited uploading of products  4. Two staff accounts  5. Different social media sales channels  6. Round-the-clock customer support 7. Crafting coupon codes and discount cards 8. Payment processing  9. Abandoned cart functionality  All of these are bundled into a $29 plan, and when compared to paying hundreds to get these separately, well, I think the choice is a no-brainer.  ### Revenue from merchant solutions  Merchant solutions are the additional services they offer in conjunction with the online store platform. Their merchant solutions include:  1. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) payment’s processing and transaction fees  2. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) shipping  3. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Capital  4. Partner referral fees  5. Point of sale hardware  Let’s take a look at these.  #### Transaction fees [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) takes a cut from every transaction, based on the overall amount of sales for the purchase. The percentage varies depending on the plan you currently subscribe to.  For online credit card sales, the transaction fees are as follows.  1. For the Basic plan, 2.9% + 30c ($0.030)  2. For the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) plan, 2.6% + 30c ($0.030)  3. For the Advanced plan, 2.4% + 30c ($0.030)  For in-person credit card sales, the transaction fees are here.  1. For the Basic plan, 2.7%  2. For the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) plan, 2.5%  3. For the Advanced plan, 2.4%   Even if you decide to use a different payment processor, say Paypal, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) will still take a fee.  Either way, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) will take a cut of your sales. Here are the rates.  - For the Basic plan, 2.0%  - For the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) plan, 1.0%  - For the Advanced plan, 0.5%  Note that these fees do not apply to manual payment methods. These include cash on delivery (COD), checks, test orders, bank deposits, and pending or paid draft orders.  Furthermore, these charges do not apply to point of sale transactions.  This whole system is called [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Payments. It allows merchants to process payment cards both offline and online, leading to higher retention of subscribers.   Seeing that the system is already bundled in a subscription, clients need not look for another payment provider because [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) already has one built-in. It is an attractive and convenient option.  #### Shopify shipping ![](/images/posts/inline/3687a858-shopify-shipping4.png) Through [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Shipping, merchandisers can choose from different shipping partners to complete the shipping for them. You can buy and also print shipping labels, or track where your delivery is directly from the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) platform.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) makes revenue on its shipping system through the labels. A merchandiser can buy a shipping label from [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) to expedite the packaging and fulfillment of the process.   The labels also lower your shipping rates from UPS, DHL Express, USPS, and Canada Post.  The cost of the shipping labels is based on the rates of these four shipping providers.  After purchasing a shipping label, its cost is included in your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) account. The total price is reflected, along with the additional fees and taxes.  #### Shopify capital ![](/images/posts/inline/5f4fae75-sdfas.jpg) [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Capital is a relatively new service offering that enables merchants to get low-cost financing for their business, hassle-free. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Capital is the company’s answer to Square Capital and PayPal Working Capital.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) extends help to merchandisers getting this service through short term-funding, and cash advances.  You do not need to meet any qualifications in connection with your store revenue or personal credit rating. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is more interested in: 1. If you are located in the United States 2. If your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Payments is enabled 3. If you are considered to have a low-risk profile, and 4. If you have the right amount of gross merchandise volume.  Note that you cannot apply for [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Capital through an application process, but the service will alert you when your account is eligible.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) does not charge an interest rate, but instead, uses a factor rate to calculate your repayment. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) will multiply your loan amount by a factor rate, either 1.13 or 1.1.   Say you borrow $100,000. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) will collect either $113,000 ($100,000 x 1.13) or $110,000 ($100,000 x 1.1).  In place of monthly or daily fixed payments, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) takes a percentage of your daily revenue. The rate varies, and because the amount [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) collects fluctuates, the loan does not have a set repayment date.   #### Partner referral fees ![](/images/posts/inline/f1e9aff1-screenshot-www.shopify.com-2020.06.23-14_07_16.png) There is this system called the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Referral Program. One can refer clients to [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), create apps for the use of sellers, and create themes for storefronts.  For those who do not want to sell online but to be a part of the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) ecosystem, then this program is for you.   For example, you can create some sort of app, and a Shopify merchant who downloaded that app will pay you, the developer, a monthly subscription cost.  So how does [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) fit in all of this?  If a merchant buys an app or theme, the developer and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) will share the revenues from that transaction, resulting in what is called a revenue share.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) charges different fees depending on the product. Revenue sharing differs between themes and apps and is also dependent on the subscription plan of the merchant who bought said app or theme.  On the average, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) charges 10% to 20% of the monthly app or theme subscription and continues to charge this fee as long as the merchant is subscribed to the product.  For example, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) charges 10%. You sell an app at $10 per month, and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) takes $1 as their cut.  If you have 10,000 users of that app, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) gets $10,000 from that app alone. Taking into consideration that there are thousands of products in their app store, then you are looking at a lucrative source of revenue.  #### Hardware ![](/images/posts/inline/ec0385bf-screenshot-hardware.shopify.com-2020.06.23-14_09_05.png) [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) also offers a point of sale hardware equipment for your use. These office equipment include: 1. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) retail kits  2. iPad stands 3. Credit card readers  4. Barcode scanners 5. Barcode labels and printers 6. Receipt papers and printers   7. Cash drawers  8. Customizable gift cards and gift card sleeves 9. Scales  10. Shipping label printers  11. And many accessories. These are for sellers who maintain a physical store and rely on a POS system.  ## By The Numbers: Key Performance Indicators  Key performance indicators (KPI) are the metrics that matter to a particular business. Not all figures need to be looked at; only the essential ones matter to a company.   For a business such as [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), which is based on subscriptions, key indicators include the monthly recurring revenue (MRR) figure, because the business relies on having a recurring customer base.  For a hosting platform, the gross merchandise volume (GMV) figure is essential because this amount shows the dollar value of all products sold through the platform, including apps, themes, and other merchant services.  Since [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is a hybrid of these two, the company uses both the MRR and GMV as key performance indicators.  The GMV also needs to be examined in connection with the growth of the subscriber base, and if the numbers are reasonable enough.  Looking at the numbers above, we can see that both metrics grew from one year to the next. This indicates growth, profitability, and stability of the company.  ## Key Takeaways Let us take another look at the most critical points outlined in this article.  1. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is a platform that allows merchants to sell their products on a cloud-hosted online store.  2. Subscriptions are at the core of this business.  3. The most popular plans are the two cheapest tiers. Most of the subscription revenue is driven by the enterprise-grade plans that pay significantly higher fees than the standard.  4. The enterprise accounts, because of their size, are more stable and result in higher monthly retention. Enterprise contracts run for a year or multi-year deals.  5. Most of the GMV on the platform are attributable to these enterprise accounts.  6. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) currently derives the majority of its revenue through merchant solutions. These services give higher value to its customers, leading to more retention and driving the MRR figure.  7. When looking at [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) key performance metrics, it is essential to note that the GMV enables the MRR.  ## Bottom line So to answer the question on where and how [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) derives its growth, its sources of revenue come from subscriptions and the added services available on their platform.   These services are meant to keep the current customer base, driving their monthly subscription income up.  And we cannot deny that what they are doing is effective. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is now a giant in the eCommerce space, with its shares recently [hitting an all-time high](https://business.financialpost.com/technology/shopify-puts-late-2019-swoon-behind-it-as-shares-hit-new-all-time-high). We can expect this trend to continue, as [online selling and eCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) is becoming more and more prevalent in our society.  So that ends my take on how [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) makes it work. How was your experience with this platform?  Drop your insights below! You can also tell me what to cover next!  Want more monetization schemes and insightful reviews? Here are some of the best ones.  - [How Venmo earns](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/)? - [Read all about Netflix’s sources of revenue here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/) - [Review of Printful: An on-demand printing and dropshipping solution](https://alejandrorioja.com/printful-review/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Make Money With Instagram? Tips & Ideas Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-make-money-with-instagram/ Published: 2020-06-22 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: It is also one of the best platforms to reach younger audiences out there, seeing that at least 64% of its users are aged 18 to 29. Instagram is one of the best social media platforms for business today. ## Table of contents You pick up your phone and open Instagram. You scroll down your feed, mostly containing photos and videos of food, scenic views, many different products, and of course, memes.  After a while, you remember that you took a very picturesque sunset view yesterday, so you hit that plus sign and upload it. The image racked up quite a nice amount of likes and impressions through your quite massive follower base.  You scroll for some more time, turn off the app, and move on. You open it again later to find many more notifications on your post.   The cycle begins again the next day, and maybe you’ll post a food-making video then. During all of these, though, did you ever think of monetizing your Instagram account?  Well, your account is just sitting there, being used as a social media platform. Why not earn some money with it along the way?  > Instagram is one of the largest social networks around, with more than 1 billion registered users and half a billion active concurrent users. It is also one of the best platforms to reach younger audiences out there, seeing that at least [64%](https://sproutsocial.com/insights/instagram-stats/) of its users are aged 18 to 29. Instagram is one of the best social media platforms for business today. Photos evoke many feelings, and enterprises leverage the site’s focus for image content as a marketing and advertising channel.  However, not only large businesses earn money from Instagram. To give you an idea, an Instagram influencer earns up to [thousands of dollars](https://blog.hootsuite.com/instagram-statistics/) for a post.  ![](/images/posts/inline/e0fba2bf-instagram-statistics-6-620x413-1.png) Think of all that money you are missing out!  Many [Instagram users are monetizing their accounts](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/). If you are thinking about it, then let this post be the sign that you need to continue.  Monetize the hell out of your Instagram account! Let’s discuss how to make money on this social media platform.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9a4jV23ez4 ## The essentials  But hold up, your account will not be instantly marketable and won’t attract enough money-making opportunities. You might first want to set up your account to invite contacts and potentially net you that opportunity.  ### iOs Vs. Android ![](/images/posts/inline/63a5a8f3-llll.jpg) Cameras are mostly unneeded unless you are looking to monetize your Instagram through photography. Unless you are a professional photographer or someone who delves in artistic photograph shots, then there is almost no need for a bulky DSLR-grade camera.  A regular Instagram user would use their phones as cameras. The question now is whether to choose iOS or Android.  If you want to post decently high-quality photos and videos from a phone, then iPhone is probably your safest bet. They have one of, if not the, best camera hardware and software available in the smartphone market today, though Android-powered devices are catching up.  Android excels in productivity. Android phones can directly access pictures from within cloud storage, or upload them in said storages for safekeeping.   Some android phones also take stunning shots which are social media-ready already.   ### Account security  ![](/images/posts/inline/59ce4186-privacy-security-instagram-screen-2.jpg) Instagram continues to prove that it is one of the most monetizable and, by extension, the most valuable social media sites out there. Unfortunately, this means that the site is a hotbed for scammers, phishers, and hackers.  Ensure that you also put an emphasis on your account security through these steps.  1. When you create a new Instagram account, create a new email address also. Do not let anyone know about it; don’t even write it in your bio. Give in a unique security password, and use this exclusively for the Instagram account setup.  2. Another layer of protection is linking your phone number to your Instagram account. As with the email, do not display it anywhere on your account.  In the event you get hacked or lose your password, your phone number will come in handy.  3. Connect your Facebook account to your Instagram. Your Facebook Connect details and credentials will allow you an Instagram password reset should you lose your password, or when your account has been compromised.  ### Setting up your account  Your Instagram account will contain the details about you, and is the main window to your Instagram “soul.” This is where the people look at if they want to know more about you.   Here are some tips to make your profile page look attractive.  1. The bio is your first chance to announce yourself to the world. These few snippets of text will help visitors decide whether to follow you or not. Potential followers will only take a few seconds looking at your homepage before coming to a decision, so keep your bio short. Make sure it is descriptive enough, with proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation. If you want to do business through Instagram, then keep it professional. 2. Keep your Instagram profile picture or avatar clean and straightforward. As much as possible, do away with the text. If, however, you would want to use an abbreviation as your page name, then use a simple and professional-looking font.  3. The only clickable URL or link that Instagram allows on your profile is a URL on the bio. Use this to your advantage by linking a personal website, blog, store, or whatever you want to market yourself further.  Run the link through a link-shortening service, such as [bit.ly](https://bitly.com/), to make it more attractive.  If you want to dedicate your account to making money, then keep the account public and open to everyone. Visitors are turned off by clicking your account and seeing that they have to follow a private account just to look at what you post.  ## Make your account marketable  Let me outline this: an Instagram account won’t always earn money immediately. Monetizing your account takes more than a quirky Instagram name and profile.  You need to have “attention” that you can “sell.” In short, your account must grow its audience before you can start making money off of it.  You need to have these things first before being able to earn with Instagram.  ### The influence and follower base Why are businesses willing to pay you? Because they like to gain reach and exposure through access to your audience, with the ultimate aim of them purchasing their products.  Think of your account as an advertising channel.   Now when you are starting, your follower numbers are most likely on the lower side. You must grow your reach organically, ideally, to a few thousand followers.   Reach alone is not enough, however, compelling content is just as relevant so that your followers will be inclined to take action.  ### Engagement  A bigger fanbase, logically, results in more views. But that has almost no point if there is no engagement with your content.   The measure of your engagement will be the people commenting, liking, and sharing your posts. An engaged community will make brands more likely to invest in you and your audience.  So, how will you achieve these things?  ### Posting content  In a visual-driven social media site such as Instagram, content is king. You can theoretically double the rate at which your account grows through posting unique and quality [pictures coupled with exciting captions](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-instagram-captions/).  1. If you are getting photos from the web or other sites, then make sure that the images are no smaller than 1080 x 1080 pixels. This allows for the maximum resolution available. 2. A little caption goes a long way. You don’t need to write something long; descriptive and short can do.  3. Take note of proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation. A poorly written caption affects your image negatively, while a properly written one makes you look clever.  4. Hashtags are a way to improve the reach of your content. I suggest using at least 10 to 15 hashtags for significant effect.  5. However, you cannot just slap any hashtag there and call it done; it is imperative that you choose the right ones. Use creative and witty ones relevant to your post.  Be regular. Think of your Instagram engagement as a relationship. Nurturing it requires constant and frequent communication. It helps to make a fixed schedule and stick to it. Align the times when your followers are most likely online as well.  Continue it by regularly talking with your followers in the comments section.   1. Continually strive for higher-quality content. There are thousands of content creators also looking to get big on Instagram, and standing out requires a constant drive for improvement.   2. Consider leveraging video media through IGTV or Stories.   3. However, quality content and captions can only carry you for so long. Growing your reach will be easier if you form relationships with other content creators in your industry or niche.  4. Get in touch, ask for shoutouts, engage with their community, and form content collaborations.  ## Money making ideas with instagram  Now, let’s say you’ve followed all of the above pointers and grew your follower base. You took all kinds of photos from all sorts of angles, edited them to improve the look further, and wrote interesting captions.  After spending time interacting with your followers, you are now getting the fruit of your labor – the mentions and likes you worked hard for.  Turn those comments and likes into money—time to monetize your account.  Here are some of the ways you can earn money on Instagram. Some are ordinary and straightforward, and some require an extra bit of work.  1. Affiliate Marketing 2. Sponsored Content  3. Sell Your Goods  4. Embedded Marketing  5. Use Your Talents  6. Digital Real Estate  7. Social Media Managing  Let’s take a look at this one by one.  ### Affiliate marketing  [Affiliate marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-do-affiliate-marketing/) involves working with brands as an “ambassador” of sorts to promote their products. In exchange, you get a cut on every purchase.  1. You sign up as an affiliate.  2. If the company accepts, you will be given a unique code, commonly referred to as an “affiliate link.”  3. Use that affiliate link in your posts. Insert it naturally and creatively.  4. You will receive a cut of the purchase made through your custom URL.  ![](/images/posts/inline/f391fb26-affilaite-coupon2.jpg) Affiliate marketing is a great way to start earning with Instagram. It does not require that much technical expertise, many brands already have self-enrollment systems in place, and it is pretty easy to set up.  You can use links in posts, stories, or product tagging to drive the traffic that you need. Since you hold no inventory, it won’t hurt to try out a wide variety of products.  If you are unsure where to begin, look towards an affiliate marketplace to connect affiliates with brands looking for them. Examples of these are ClickBank and Amazon Affiliate.   Stick to niches that fit your interests, or you believe in personally, as it will be easier to create authentic posts and reactions that will resonate with your audiences. Earn commissions through driving traffic can be easy, simple, and useful. If you do not want to create or sell a product yourself, affiliate marketing is the next best thing.  ### Sponsored content According to an Influencer Marketing [report](https://go.rakutenmarketing.com/hubfs/docs/2019%20Influencer%20Marketing%20Report%20-%20Rakuten%20Marketing.pdf) in 2019, 80% or 8 out of 10 buyers bought an item because of the recommendation from an influencer. This technique, commonly referred to as influencer marketing, is very prevalent nowadays.  And with how brands are continually allocating [increasing](https://www.businessinsider.com/influencer-marketing-report) budgets to their influencer marketing schemes, this trend will still probably continue.  ![](/images/posts/inline/21700c9d-screenshot-www.instagram.com-2020.06.22-18_31_06.png) As an influencer, brands will collaborate with you to create and [post sponsored content](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/) on your Instagram account promoting their product or service. Often, the post centers around the product itself with a review from you, as the user.  It differs from affiliate marketing in that content creators are paid for a flat price, rather than a commission per purchase. If affiliates receive 20% of each sale of a product, brands sponsoring content will give you $1,000 for a sponsored Instagram post.  Direct product placement is achieved through giveaways, unboxings, and tutorials. However, campaigns can be geared directly to the company, or by showcasing special occasions or events.  Research from [Buffer](https://buffer.com/resources/influencer-marketing-cost) and [DigiDay](https://digiday.com/marketing/what-influencer-marketing-costs/) points to influencer marketing as a pretty lucrative venture. It can potentially net you thousands of dollars, depending on follower count or total engagements.  A high follower count, however, will not instantly lead to significant earnings. A profile with high engagement rates, even with a relatively smaller follower count, will net more profits than one with many followers but low engagement.  Well, how do you enter into such an arrangement? Well, there is no clear way. But I can give you some tips to go about it.  1. Find out if your followers also want the brands you want. Same as with affiliate marketing, promoting a brand you know and are passionate about will result in more engaging content.  2. Engage with the brand. Leave comments and likes to show that you are a fan.  3. Once you see a fair bit of interaction from them, slide into their DMs to see if they are interested in doing business with you.  4. Alternatively, you can also work with an agency to connect you with brands. Companies such as Mediakix come to mind.  Shoutouts are a more informal form of brand sponsorship. It works like selling ad space in the real world; only here, the ad space is your Instagram feed.  Clients can buy a posting slot from your content posting schedule, where you will post about their products or service. It lasts for an agreed length of time, and you are paid based on engagement rate, follower count, activity, or any other metric stipulated and agreed upon. ### Sell products ![](/images/posts/inline/29cf1b72-ig-shop1.jpg) When you want to leverage Instagram as your eCommerce platform, you have two choices; you can sell your own or be a dropshipper.  If you have a strong personal reach and branding, and you do not want to advertise other products, you can always promote your own.  So long as your products have a fan following, applicable to your niche, and resonate with your followers, then [Instagram can be a channel](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) where you can sell them.  You can promote physical goods such as clothing, cosmetics, jewelry, accessories, and food. Digital products, such as artworks, comics, and device wallpapers, can also be sold.  It’s a lot of work. But if you have the time, energy, resources, and passion to do it, then why don’t you?  If you don’t have these but still want to sell something, then you might want to set up a dropshipping plan.  Get a manufacturer and make a dropshipping scheme for them. You will arrange the shipping of products from the manufacturing business to the consumer.  You do away with the production, inventory management, and many shipping problems. If you are unsure what to sell, take a look at your audience and interact with them daily.   Instagram knows that the platform is used for selling, and they facilitate it. They added ‘shopping’ tags that allow you to tag a product and include a price as well as a direct link in one post.  ### Embedded marketing  ![](/images/posts/inline/9f38c1f1-screen-shot-2016-12-12-at-1.39.56-pm.png) Product placements are conventional advertising techniques, and it has found its way to Instagram. With the rise of video content, product placement comes into clear view.  Known as “embedded marketing,” examples of these would be Heineken in James Bond movies, or Audi in Marvel flicks.  Instagram is not the first choice when it comes to video, but the stories feature is a good avenue for some product placement. They are very accessible and make the product placement feel more authentic.  The “swipe up” function is also a boon; one click and purchases are made easy.  Live video streaming through IGTV is also an option. Using it for longer videos is fine, though utilizing it as a standalone avenue for product placement is not yet fully explored.  Normal product placement through images is also fine.  Just like with the above, it’s best to contact brands directly and talk to them about your proposal.   A piece of advice – if your product placement screams ad too much, then it won’t feel as authentic.  Be as genuine as possible, and use subtle product placement techniques.  Video product placements are paid based on views. Depending on your follower base and the brand you are advertising, there are potentials for thousands of earnings.  A rule of thumb is that the more views you have, the more money you get.  ### Use your talents ![](/images/posts/inline/09b210de-screenshot-www.instagram.com-2020.06.22-18_37_21.png) Creating information-generating products gives value to your audience while being another source of revenue. Collect the skills related to your niche and convert them into a digestible format for your followers.  Use your talents to educate your audiences and help them solve their problem. Examples of these are ebooks and multimedia content on course platforms such as Udemy.  Instagram is excellent as a place to promote your offering and show your followers just what kind of knowledge they will get. You can post standalone content, such as “How-To” videos or “Tips and Tricks,” or “Ask Me Anything” through the Stories function.   This tried and tested combo of combining promotion through IG to sell informational products works for many niches. You just have to be creative when creating posts.  To earn net gains through this method you need to put in some more work on your part. However, they require low investments and yield high profits.  You can sell your products at a wide range of prices, depending on the expertise and demand of the knowledge you share. One of the most sure-fire ways to monetize your Instagram is through a series of video subscriptions, kind of like Netflix. This is an excellent content booster, and you’ll be able to design a world of education or entertainment where you are entirely in charge.  If you set up your video streaming service as a per subscription basis, then you will earn passive income enough for maybe a livable wage.  ### Digital real estate  Another money-making venture on Instagram is selling accounts, referred to as digital real estate. When you are an Instagram influencer, you can quickly grow an account.   Brands and companies are looking for efficient marketing avenues. They may not have the resources, time, nor capability to get an Instagram account up and running to marketable status quickly. Digital real estate sells convenience. The Instagram accounts you make will already have an engaged community that has grown to a marketable size.  Businesses will already be able to start social media campaigns and initiatives without going through the hassle of growing an IG account from scratch. There are many platforms where you can sell Instagram accounts, such as Social Tradia and Viral Instas.  ### Managing social media  Are you already experienced in the ways of growing, interacting, maintaining, and boosting an Instagram audience? Turn that hustle into money by [managing other people’s Instagram accounts](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/).  Many businesses or entrepreneurs would also like to use the benefits Instagram provides, but have no time nor expertise to do so. That is where you come in, to give them a substantial Instagram presence.  ![](/images/posts/inline/a3e571ad-pexels-photo-1092671.jpeg) As a social media account manager, you are responsible for establishing the brand and growing its community engagement. You will build the voice of the brand through constant interaction with your followers, influencers, and other brands.  If you want to be one, apply for open Instagram social media manager positions. Prepare your best pitch to land that offer. ## Tools you can use  To make things easier, there are numerous analytic tools and software you can use. You do not need them all though, but here are some worthy ones to note, aside from the ones mentioned above.  ### Buzzoole ![](/images/posts/inline/0ad47cae-screenshot-buzzoole.com-2020.06.22-18_41_22.png) Buzzoole is a platform for influencers allowing you to identify brands within your niche. With this, you know who to do business opportunities with.  Buzzoole’s performance analysis tools allow you to see just how much influence you have, which is another advantage of this tool.   ### Tapinfluence ![](/images/posts/inline/207043e9-screenshot-www.tapinfluence.com-2020.06.22-18_43_02.png) One of Buzzoole’s top competitors is Tapinfluence and is loaded with equally powerful features.  It has a clean and clear visualization to facilitate data gathering and strong segmentations filters.  ### Linkin.bio ![](/images/posts/inline/fe1a82be-later.jpg) Linkin.bio is hard to classify. But what it does is transform your Instagram photos into a shoppable feed. Followers browsing your account can click on the images to be redirected to the product page, or a related article.   Linkin.bio also lets you track analytical stats to allow you to make better decisions.  ### Hashtagsforlikes ![](/images/posts/inline/ef16d9ca-screenshot-www.hashtagsforlikes.co-2020.06.22-18_44_55.png) This helps Instagram users, as well as influencers, reach their intended followers with hashtag enumeration, identification, analysis, and suggestions.  ### Scheduling apps  ![](/images/posts/inline/5a2684fa-screenshot-later.com-2020.06.22-18_46_37.png) There is a wealth of scheduling apps out there, but if you want the best ones, in my opinion, I would recommend Hootsuite or Latergram. Scheduling apps are useful, whatever one you decide to use.  They save time and effort because you can already schedule posts from a day to a week ahead of time.   Relevant: Read about the right way to contact influencers and bloggers [*here*](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) ## Wrapping up! Earning money, not just through Instagram, is not exactly a walk in the park. However, social media affords us another avenue of money-making that people and brands can utilize.  For a budding content creator, Instagram is a welcome platform to be on. It focuses on visual media, so you have at least an idea of what to do: post visual content.  To earn money through your Instagram, you need to accumulate experience as an influencer. Once you do, brands will be clamoring for your expertise as an Instagrammer.  They will pay for your services in exchange for the efficiency, convenience, peace of mind, and results that you deliver.  And that’s it in today’s article about earning through Instagram. Do you want to try it out for yourself?  What do you want me to cover next? Leave your insights in the comments section.  Here are some more informative articles for you!  - [How much money does Venmo make?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/)  - [Improve your Marketing Strategies with these interesting books](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/)  - [Reviewing Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/printful-review/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How Does Craigslist Make Money Without Charging Any Fee? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-craigslist-make-money/ Published: 2020-06-21 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: Business TL;DR: I am talking about Craigslist which was ranked as one of the topmost revenue generating platforms in 2016. Today, I will talk about Craigslist, and how it became a high-earning classified website despite its seemingly free offer of advertisement postings. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. No commissions! No subscription! But still a successfully running business. How is that possible? I am talking about Craigslist which was ranked as one of the topmost revenue generating platforms in 2016. Wondering how it makes money? Today, I will talk about Craigslist, and how it became a high-earning classified website despite its seemingly free offer of advertisement postings. I will also guide you on how to post ads easily on Craigslist, and how to navigate the site, so you can also post ads for free**.** Online classified ads are website modern versions of the classified advertisement section of a newspaper or a magazine. Most digital websites are divided into different categories like housing, services, jobs, for sale, etc.  Putting an advertisement online these days is way cheaper and more convenient than placing it in the classified section of a newspaper. Easy access via the internet provides a better way for people to buy and sell online. This is the reason why Craigslist and [other digital websites](https://www.forbes.com/sites/angelauyeung/2018/08/13/why-billionaire-craig-of-craigslist-is-giving-millions-to-journalism-and-education/#3277cdf77942) are the top picks when it comes to online advertisements. ## What is Craigslist? ![](/images/posts/inline/27d3da62-screenshot-apps.apple_.com-2020.06.21-18_52_14.png) Craigslist is an online advertising business that was established in 1995. It started as an email dissemination source that eventually graduated as an online classified ad. The business model of Craigslist, in the beginning, was non-profit. However, in 1999 this was changed into a for-profit enterprise. Currently, [Craigslist](https://www.businessinsider.com/craigslist-facts-2019-5) dominates the market for [online and digital advertisements](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/). The site’s profitability and popularity are due to its “growth first, revenue later” business scheme. As a private company, Craigslist never obtained money from stakeholders. Ads posting on Craigslist is mostly free. But some advertisements in selected regions are charged with fees, depending on the advertisement that will be published. Many of us may have used Craigslist at one time or another. The online form needed to post an ad is simple and easy to navigate. And the website itself is unassuming. The following are some important facts about Craigslist. ## How does Craigslist operate? Similar to any other normal classified website, Craigslist conducts its business by itemizing advertisements in various sections. It is presented in regional specific locations that make online searching easier. Each region’s website is made up of categories like services, jobs, housing, gigs, plus much more. ### How to post ads in Craigslist Anybody with or without an account in Craigslist can post an advertisement on the website. The advantage of having an account is that the postings can easily be retrieved, revised, or deleted. Posting without an account will require links via email in order to modify the ad. Here are the steps on how to post ads: 1. Go to the Craigslist website. 2. Click on create a posting (located at the upper left-side) 3. A new window will open, click on the type of posting you prefer, then click continue. 4. Click your chosen category. 5. Fill up the ads posting form. 6. Add images to the next window that would pop-up. 7. Click “done”, and then click “publish”.  ### How to browse Craigslist ads? The ads in Craigslist are arranged by columns and divided into different categories. Each category has a sub-category that you need to click on before you can view the ads. This is how to browse ads on Craigslist: 1. Choose the nearest city that is on the Craigslist page.  2. Click on any category to be able to view the posted ads.  3. The ads are arranged from the most recent date to the oldest. There is no middle man on Craigslist. All transactions are made directly between the buyer and the seller. Clicking the reply button located in the upper left corner of a Craigslist ad will provide the means of [communication that is given by the advertiser](https://alejandrorioja.com/combine-email-and-social-media-marketing/). Messages or replies are forwarded automatically to the poster’s email address.  The evolution of hard copy classified ads into digital ad websites has certainly advanced through the years. Now, people across the globe can easily find what they are searching for by going online and clicking the mouse. What’s more, ads through Craigslist are generally free, and could easily be customized. ## What are Craigslist’s income streams? It may seem that Craigslist does not require any payment for ads posting. This may be true for the majority of its classified ads sections. But technically, the site levies fees for a small number of its classified segments.  Craigslist charges $25 in six main cities in the United States for posting a job. It also charges $75 for a job posting in San Francisco and $10 for an apartment rental listing in New York. The said earnings are only enough to cover the operational expenditures of the site, without any profit since 1995. According to Jim Buckmaster, Craigslist’s President, the [quality of the user’s experience](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) is their top priority instead of generating profits. Craigslist is contemplating suggestions on having [Google ads text and banner advertising](https://alejandrorioja.com/google-ads-tutorial/) on the site. However, this is not yet being considered in the near future since the revenue from the ads might overshadow the site’s efficient service in helping users find what they need. ## How does Craigslist earn money? All ads placement in Craigslist is free of charge since the owners are more for a quality experience than profit, and here is how the company earns money through its classified ads. Below are the advertisements that provide earnings for Craigslist.  Most advertisements are free with the exclusion of the following:  1. Job postings in certain areas – $7 to $75 (fee differs by location) 2. Apartment rentals in New York City – $10 3. Different dealers across the United States – $3 to $5 4. Cars or truck dealer in the United States and Vancouver, British Columbia – $5 5. Furniture dealers in the United States, Vancouver, British Columbia – $3 6. Therapeutic Services within the United States – $10 7. Live advertisement reposts – $5 Accounts that are post-paid have many payment options including Visa, Master Card, and American Express. Repost rates/fees are lesser than the posting cost in the majority of the lists.  Craigslist really does not make any money through most of its classified listings.  The money it makes from certain job ads, New York rental apartments, auto dealers, and others are meager. But the meager amounts can rapidly accumulate into a hefty sum because of the millions of users posting ads that require a fee on the site. Craigslist is assessed to have a net worth of $3 billion, and it does not have a high overhead expenditure. Its current employees are approximately 40 to 50, and its major expenses are to legal and server maintenance.  The company even does not maintain an elaborate [webpage](https://gizmodo.com/craigslist-finally-gets-an-official-app-1840200352), plus it is a non-profit entity. Thus, it can use its earnings however it deems suitable. So, the $7 to $75 fee from its minor classified listings will certainly go a long way. Relevant: Read [How does Snapchat make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/does-snapchat-make-money/) ## How does Craigslist affect newspaper revenue? The earnings of various classified ads in newspapers considerably declined when Craigslist was established in 1995. Profits from the year 2000 to the year 2010 fell from $19.6 billion to $6 billion as per research made by the Newspaper Association of America. That was a 70% decline within the aforementioned period and seemed to have not slowed down. ![](/images/posts/inline/da0362ff-image5-1.png) Newspapers in the United States experienced a major setback in its classified ads earnings when Craigslist and other online classified ads companies came into the picture, however, there is no proof. ### Reasons why Craigslist is blamed for the newspapers’ revenue loss 1. They theorize that whenever Craigslist adds a new market segment to its site, the decline for US newspapers classified ads is instantaneous.  2. The Craigslist effect caused a whopping loss of $50 million for the newspapers’ classified revenue in 2004.  3. Craigslist entry into the media ads led to job losses and a downfall in the stock prices of major newspapers in the United States. In consideration of the above, others believe that times have simply changed. People nowadays are more inclined to use the internet, along with the digital services offered therein. More and more people are going for the “paperless” amenities, which printed newspaper ads cannot outdo. ## Summing up! While there may have been a lot of reasons that caused the newspapers’ decrease in earnings, the Newspaper Association of America is certain that online sites similar to Craigslist had a part in reducing the newspapers’ profits. This may be true because placing ads in newspapers is quite expensive but posting on Craigslist is generally free. Although it is convenient to use online classified ads like Craigslist, it is also essential to protect your personal information. Remember that all transactions online are made with strangers, so extra precautions are needed even when replying to advertisements. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Like this article? Read these articles on how to maximize your online business: - [Great growth stories of 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/) - [Here’s how you can improve your conversion rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/)  - [Get discovered on the first page of Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [How to sell anything](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) Drop a comment below and tell me which company you want me to review next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How Does Netflix Make Money? The 2026 Revenue Breakdown ($39B) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-netflix-makes-money/ Published: 2020-06-21 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business TL;DR: Netflix made ~$39B in 2024 on ~301M paying subs. ~93% from subscriptions, ~6% from ads (the $7.99 ad-tier rolled out 2022, now ~45% of new US sign-ups), ~1% from licensing + emerging lines (games, live events). Operating margin crossed 25% — the unit economics finally work. ## Table of contents Netflix turned in roughly $39B in revenue in 2024 with **~301M paying memberships** ([Q4 2024 letter](https://ir.netflix.net/)). Operating margin crossed 25%. The business that was supposed to die from streaming-wars competition is, in 2026, the most profitable streamer by a comfortable margin — and now layering meaningful new revenue lines on top. This is the operator-grade 2026 breakdown.
Netflix, Inc.
Subscription video-on-demand streaming service. Originally a DVD-by-mail business (founded 1997, IPO 2002). Trades as $NFLX on NASDAQ. Headquartered in Los Gatos, CA.
## The $39B revenue split
~93%
Subscriptions (all tiers)
~6%
Advertising (ad-supported tier)
~1%
Other (DVD wind-down, licensing, games)
The headline: still a subscription business. But the 2026 differences are real — the ad tier is now a meaningful line, games are seeing meaningful engagement (though not direct revenue yet), and live events have crossed from "experiment" to "ongoing programming." ## 1 · Subscription tiers The 2026 Netflix US tier structure:
  1. 01
    Standard with Ads — $7.99/mo. Launched November 2022. Now accounts for ~45% of new US sign-ups. Lower margin per sub but adds the ad-revenue line on top, blended ARPU is meaningfully higher than the old Basic tier it replaced.
  2. 02
    Standard — $17.99/mo. The middle tier. No ads, 1080p, 2 simultaneous streams, 1 extra-member slot ($7.99/mo for password-sharing).
  3. 03
    Premium — $24.99/mo. 4K HDR, 4 simultaneous streams, 2 extra-member slots, spatial audio.
International tiering varies; emerging markets have meaningfully lower entry-level pricing. ## 2 · The password-sharing crackdown — the single biggest story The 2023 global rollout of paid sharing (formerly "password sharing") was the single biggest revenue inflection of Netflix's last five years. The crackdown: - Added an estimated **~22M net subscribers** above prior trend through 2023–2024 - Generated a one-time bolus of new sign-ups followed by a sustained higher growth rate - Created the **$7.99/mo extra-member** product line — paid sharing made legitimate ## 3 · The ad tier — now ~6% of revenue and growing The Netflix ad-supported tier launched November 2022 in partnership with Microsoft (since unwound — Netflix now sells ads directly via their own DSP, "Netflix In-House Ads," fully rolled out 2024). What it looks like in 2026: - **~45% of new US sign-ups** choose the ad tier - **CPMs hover around $25–35**, comfortably above linear TV - **Programmatic ad-buying** rolled out 2024 (via The Trade Desk and others) - **No-ads + free trial promotions** for select Verizon/T-Mobile bundles For advertisers, Netflix is now a real CTV inventory option alongside Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ (which followed Netflix into ad-supported tiers). ## 4 · Live events — the surprise Netflix's live-event strategy went from experiment to real programming in 2024–2025: - **NFL games on Christmas Day** (starting 2024) — multi-year deal - **WWE Raw** — three-year exclusive starting January 2025, ~$5B total - **Boxing exhibitions** (Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul, November 2024) — drew record streaming numbers - **Comedy specials** — live (rather than recorded) format for select releases The strategy isn't to compete with traditional sports networks at scale; it's to use live as a sub-acquisition + churn-reduction tool while keeping the underlying business subscription-first. ## 5 · Games — engagement, not revenue (yet) Netflix's gaming push is still in the "engagement metric" phase, not the "revenue line" phase. As of 2026: - ~100 mobile games in the Netflix Games library (included with subscription) - Notable titles: GTA Trilogy, Football Manager 2024, Hades, Cuphead - No direct monetization (no in-app purchases, no ads in games) - Strategy: reduce churn, increase engagement per sub Whether this becomes a meaningful revenue line by 2027 depends on whether Netflix introduces a premium games tier or in-game advertising. ## 6 · The international ARPU story One of Netflix's structural challenges is that subscriber growth is now coming primarily from low-ARPU regions:
UCAN
~$17/mo
EMEA
~$11/mo
LATAM
~$8/mo
APAC
~$6.50/mo
_Approximate ARPU by region from Netflix Q4 2024 disclosure._ So while subscriber growth continues, blended global ARPU has been ~flat. The ad tier (higher effective ARPU when you count ad revenue) is the lever to bend this curve. ## How Netflix produces content The Netflix content engine in 2026 looks meaningfully different from 5 years ago:
  1. 01
    Original productions — globalized. Korean content (Squid Game Season 3 is the biggest 2026 release), Spanish (Money Heist universe), Indian, Brazilian, Japanese anime. Local-language content drives international growth.
  2. 02
    Licensed content — selectively. Netflix went through the 2020–2022 period of licensors pulling content for their own services (Disney+, Max). That cycle has mostly normalized. Netflix licenses again from Sony, NBCUniversal, others.
  3. 03
    Co-productions. Increasingly Netflix co-produces with international studios, sharing rights and cost.
  4. 04
    Sports + live. The new line — WWE, NFL, boxing.
## Netflix vs Disney+ vs Amazon Prime — streaming scale
Netflix
  • ~$39B revenue (2024)
  • ~301M paying subs
  • 25%+ operating margin
  • Profitable, global, subscription-led
vs
Disney+ / Hulu
  • ~$27B streaming revenue (FY 2024)
  • ~245M combined paying subs
  • Hulu+Live and ESPN+ bundle
  • Just turned operating-income positive
Netflix
  • ~$39B
  • ~301M subs
  • Standalone streamer
vs
Amazon Prime Video
  • Revenue not separately disclosed
  • ~200M+ Prime subscribers (with video access)
  • Loss-leader inside the Prime bundle
  • Thursday Night Football, NBA upcoming
The 2026 picture: Netflix is the most *focused* streamer (pure subscription business), Amazon Prime Video is the most *bundled* (loss leader for retail), Disney+ is positioned as the *premium family* offering. Each plays a different game. ## How Netflix got here — timeline
  1. 1997Founded as DVD-by-mail. Reed Hastings + Marc Randolph.
  2. 2007Streaming launches. The DVD business funds it.
  3. 2013House of Cards ships. First original. Studio shift begins.
  4. 2016Global rollout — 130 countries in a single day.
  5. 2021Squid Game becomes the most-watched show in Netflix history.
  6. 2022Ad tier launches November. Stock collapse earlier in the year drives strategic shift.
  7. 2023Paid-sharing crackdown rolls out globally. ~22M net subs above trend.
  8. 2024In-house ad sales fully rolled out. NFL Christmas games. ~$39B revenue.
  9. 2025WWE Raw exclusive starts. Operating margin crosses 25%.
## Bottom line Netflix makes money the same way it always has — by being the platform you pay $8–25/mo to watch shows on. The 2026 differences are real but evolutionary: the ad tier added a second meaningful revenue line, paid sharing recovered the customers that were costing them money, and live + games are positioning new lines for the next decade. The unit economics finally work. Netflix is more profitable than at any point in its history. For operators in 2026 thinking about subscription businesses: study the paid-sharing playbook. It's the cleanest case of a "you'd think it would churn customers" pricing change actually growing the customer base. > Related: [How Discord makes money](/how-does-discord-make-money/) · [How Facebook makes money](/how-does-facebook-make-money/) · [How Snapchat makes money](/does-snapchat-make-money/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How Does Venmo Make Money? A Review Of Services And Fee Types Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-venmo-make-money/ Published: 2020-06-19 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, SEO TL;DR: Back in 2009, when the company was founded, this was not the case. Venmo was only operational through text messages where their clients did the payment and other transactions. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Oh, shoot! I forgot my wallet at home, and I’m at the grocery. Well, no worries. I have Venmo with me on my phone. At least, I’m saved. If you’re contemplating downloading a digital wallet, you should. These digital wallet apps, such as Venmo and PayPal, ensure that we have access to our cash anytime. But, you may be wondering how they make money from all those transactions. For this article, I will talk about what Venmo is and how Venmo makes money from its services. Seems complicated? Let’s check it out. With the advent of technology, people have sought many ways to [make life easier and more convenient](https://gizmodo.com/nows-a-good-time-to-use-no-touch-payment-systems-like-a-1842360999). A few clicks on your mobile device and you can have your food delivered to your doorstep, your schedule updated, your bills paid, your grocery shopped for you, and many more. This is why the concept of online payments and digital wallets is very much enjoyed by many. Venmo is one of the digital wallet systems aimed at giving people the comfort of clicking and having their money sent for payment. Its straightforward user interface has been the company’s magnet in the market, which has led to being one of the most preferred payment systems worldwide. ## What is Venmo? ![](/images/posts/inline/6082cbd4-screenshot-venmo.com-2020.06.19-14_37_35.png) Owned by the top company for online payments, PayPal, Venmo is a leading brand in the digital wallet industry. It has made a name of its own. Via Venmo’s unique public feed, the user’s transactions such as shopping, purchase of cinema tickets, or paying bills can be seen by his friends and relatives. As per a Venmo representative, they made the app available for public consumption because seeing what your friends or relatives are doing is for the interaction of the users. However, the representative also noted that the client may turn their feed private through the app settings. Venmo assured its clients of its data security despite the public feed option. Back in 2009, when the company was founded, this was not the case. Venmo was only operational through text messages where their clients did the payment and other transactions. It was three years into the operations when the company decided to back up its payment system with a social networking concept. Venmo has been running for a decade, and it is a widely accepted payment scheme by over two million stores and merchants. Clients have continuously patronized the convenience of doing transactions through this specific app. Here are the selling factors of Venmo. ### Advantages of Venmo  Venmo is a peer-to-peer (P2P) payment system where you can send and receive money among other users. Venmo has strong points to sell its brand. Here are some of them. **1\. Several people use it** In the US, numerous individuals have patronized Venmo for their cash transactions. And since Venmo is sort of a social networking site, many people use it to interact and connect with their friends. Their vast market plays a huge part in the company’s success because many use the app for easy sending and receiving of money. This advantage has played successfully for brands and companies that use Venmo. It is easier for their market to buy products because Venmo is available in their store. Using Venmo is a win-win situation for everyone who uses it. **2\. Effortless monetary deals** Venmo has an easy user interface, which their users find very undemanding. The waiting time for cash transactions is short and bears less stress for users. Their interface enables users to remind other users if they need to pay up; this is applicable for individual and business users alike. **3\. Security features** PayPal operates Venmo. Their security system flows similarly. Users are always given the assurance of a safe and secure network through which they can have their monetary exchanges.  The advantages of Venmo have played profitably for them and their partner brands. It has convinced and will convince many more people to use Venmo for effortless, stress-free cash transactions in the future.   ### Linkages of Venmo Since its conception ten years ago, Venmo has continuously evolved into its current successful brand. The market has embraced its brand. Along with this, the surge of payment transactions in different stores also changed. People have continually looked for stores with Venmo as a mode of payment. This is just what brands did. Numerous companies made Venmo available for their customers. Customers who found Venmo convenient to shop for their products were attracted to this scheme. Aside from being a consumer magnet, the linkage of Venmo with other brands and stores helped [increase its profitability](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/). Many Venmo users utilized instant cash transfers for payments. Stores also used Venmo for online shopping. It made online checkout faster for many online shoppers. Profitability was very much present for both Venmo and their partner brands because advertising was no brainer for them. Tying up with other social media companies, Venmo was able to reach a bigger market among frequent online consumers. The increase in partnership proved very successful for Venmo driving it to further market sensation.  Also Read: How does Discord make money *[here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-discord-make-money/)*. ### Products and offers ![](/images/posts/inline/b16d5ab6-screenshot-venmo.com-2020.06.19-14_41_25.png) The public feed option available on Venmo makes it very unique for many of its users. This feature of the payment system is used for the communication of many users. “I’ll just Venmo it to you.” – this is the statement that bore out of it. It became a catchphrase because of the number of Venmo users in the US. Venmo’s social networking has somehow helped it gain a wider reach to its consumers. Some experts would say it was easy advertising. Well, any company would agree that advertising plays a vital role in the company’s success. It can shoot the sales of the brand through the roof if done correctly. In the early days of the platform, it launched its “Venmo Card.” The Venmo Card is a Mastercard® debit card that users may use to perform transactions physically. It was linked to one’s account for fund sources. Its design was meant to match the preference of the consumer – easy and straightforward. Venmo users can use the card to withdraw at designated ATMs. The card was not swiped but rather tapped, making transactions easier. Through the Venmo card, Venmo users were also able to use their Venmo Rewards from partner brands and stores. Consumers can redeem their reward points for cash transactions and the same is stored in their accounts. Security is not an issue for the Venmo card. If you lost it, you could disable it through the Venmo app. This way, the person who attempts to use it will be denied access to your account. Safe, simple, convenient – this is Venmo’s brand promise to its consumers. The company has plans to expand its features and services to enhance the transaction experience of their market. For more information on the Venmo card, click [here](https://help.venmo.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000743767-Venmo-Card-FAQ). ## Securing your Venmo account  ![](/images/posts/inline/f84a3025-pasted-image-0-18.png) The whole monetary exchange will not be possible if you don’t secure your account. Doing so will help you have smooth-flowing access to your account. To fully secure your account, here are important reminders. ### 1\. Construct a distinct PIN code. The PIN code is your password. Never give you PIN code to anyone, even your relatives. This makes your account personal and authentic. ### 2\. Complete the verification process. Log-in with an accessible email account that you use often. Verify all the information you input to be sure of all data to be used for your account. ### 3\. Transact only with accredited and trusted accounts. Sending and receiving money should be done between people you trust. This is for your security so that distrusted people will not have to access your account. ### 4\. Use a secure internet connection and mobile device. Public WiFi access is not advisable when getting into your account. Confidential information passes through this connection, making it more prone to hacking or phishing. It is also advisable to use your phone or laptop to prevent any data from being stored in another person’s device.   Venmo uses security encryption codes for all its users. If unauthorized activity is seen, you may contact Venmo through [support@venmo.com](mailto:support@venmo.com).  Their account security has helped Venmo gain more users. It has been an assurance for the market that they are using a secure network in transacting.  Relevant: You would also like to read How Pinterest earn money *[here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-pinterest-make-money/)*. ## Using Venmo for transactions  Cash transactions have been made easy by using Venmo. Whether it be online or personal, Venmo can help with monetary exchange concerns. Here’s how you can use Venmo for payments and the like. Friends or acquaintances with whom you’ll be transacting may be added through Venmo. The social network concept of Venmo is useful with this. You can search their name or username and add them to Venmo. You will need to take note of the account name or phone number. For payment or receiving payment to be possible, the account number of the concerned party is required. If you have granted access to your contacts, it may be easier to locate and connect with the people you’ll be transacting with. Funding is not a problem with Venmo. Linked bank accounts will be a source of funds in case of insufficiency in your Venmo account. When you swipe the Venmo card or transact online, your bank accounts will serve as the fallback if your Venmo lacks a deposit. Always check your Venmo account. Regularly monitor the activity of your account. This is not to count your money, but for assurance. Constant observation of your account does help you check the inflow and outflow of your money. In the case of merchant payment, select Venmo as your mode of payment. Check this for the [list](https://venmo.com/) of partner stores. Cash deposits and withdrawal is possible through Venmo accounts. This has been the source of profit for Venmo. Seeing how the transaction process of Venmo is, it does have a smooth flow. This proves that Venmo is after the comfort of its users. ## How Venmo earns from its clients With around 52 million users, Venmo is widely used in the US. The profit made by the company is credited to three primary sources – its transaction fees, partnerships, and its [less spending in advertising and marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/). Each has served its purpose to the market and the company. ![](/images/posts/inline/c2a86cce-venmo-sources-of-revenue.jpg) ### Transaction Fees Pay with Venmo, and Instant transfer has fee charges for every transaction. Whenever a user transacts with a debit or credit card, Venmo has a 3% charge for the usage of its network. This is the least fee charge across the online payment industry. The minimal cost has enabled users to enjoy the perks of it. Venmo only has a day of processing for the concerned parties to receive the money. The convenience of the market is present. It makes the fee paid worth it. Venmo has collected around $102 billion in payment transactions in early 2020. The cash transfer is the most used feature of Venmo because it’s convenient to use. Out of the three sources, instant transfer is pinpointed as the most significant contributor. The transaction fees of Venmo are available [here](https://venmo.com/about/fees). In a study conducted by [eMarketer](https://www.emarketer.com/content/strong-growth-from-venmo-and-zelle-drives-p2p-transaction-volume), mobile transactions of peer-to-peer payment systems are expected to grow to $396.48 billion. More people would be looking at companies such as Venmo to use in their online purchases. [](https://www.emarketer.com/content/strong-growth-from-venmo-and-zelle-drives-p2p-transaction-volume) ### Venmo Card Using the card entails no charges. However, ATM withdrawals will have a $2.50 charge for domestic transactions and a $3 for over-the-counter withdrawal. The fees are charged when the financial institution requires a signature from the account holder. As some users prefer the Venmo Card, transactions made through it contributes to Venmo’s profitability. As of this writing, Venmo is improving the Venmo card features to enhance its revenue inflow for the company. They are also set to release another card for Venmo users. ### Partnerships  Venmo earns its profit from its collaborations from different brands. Companies such as Uber, GrubHub, and more pay a 2.9% fee plus a standard fee for transacting through Venmo. Over two million stores in the US have partnered with Venmo. Just imagine the revenue that Venmo earns. ### Cost cutting in advertising Another part of its profit is credited to its cost-cutting in terms of advertising. An online connection is essential to market a company. Seeing a friend eat a delicious meal or buy a good pair of shoes attracts people to find the products. This is how Venmo is different from other companies. Its social network through the public feed has made [advertising easier and less expensive](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) for the company.   Various points in its business model, monetize Venmo. Many more effective plans are to be launched by the company in 2020. As PayPal stated, they are aiming to develop the features of Venmo to entail a higher revenue in the coming years. Venmo proves that high charges do not necessarily stand useful for a company. It is easier to increase your market if they see the affordability of your products and services. Your affordability must be paired with quality service for the consumers to come back and attract more users regularly. ## Wrapping up! Venmo is a peer-to-peer payment system aimed at making cash transactions convenient and simple for many. Widely used in the US, Venmo has a broad scope of partner companies making consumers more reachable to an array of products and services. Security is a priority of any online payment system, especially for Venmo. Verifying all information is a must to secure your account and transactions. The future of payment systems lies in the [digital realm](https://www.forbes.com/sites/thestreet/2012/06/28/the-digital-wallets-future-is-now/#6afb16fa3dbc). Online transactions have made life less stressful and more opportune for many. The profitability of companies increases with their participation in these online systems to reach a wider market. Making money with Venmo serves the company and the consumers. Consumers have their money available easily with Venmo offering good service. Venmo profits from its numerous users. The profit of Venmo is credited to its market, the people they are serving convenience and comfort. Did you like the article? Comment down below what topic you want me to discuss next. If you enjoyed this article on Venmo, check out these other informative articles. - [Reviewing Quuu and Quuu Promote](https://alejandrorioja.com/quuu-and-quuu-promote-review/) - [Shopify or Wix? Which one should you choose](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/)? - [MonsterInsights – Is it right for your business?](https://alejandrorioja.com/monsterinsights-review/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Printful Review: On-Demand Printing And Dropshipping Solution Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/printful-review/ Published: 2020-06-18 Updated: 2024-06-05 Tags: E-commerce, Reviews TL;DR: One more thing that makes Printful attractive to users is it can be easily integrated into many e-commerce platforms, such as WooCommerce, Etsy, Wix, and Shopify. ## Table of contents *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links for which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* I think most of us have dreamt at least once in the past about starting our clothing line. Well, maybe at least I did.  But it’s too much work! You find fabric, do designs, purchase printing equipment so you can actually print those designs, and then ship them to all of your buyers.  That’s too much investment for something that may actually never pan out well.  Well, thankfully, there is [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) to take away the “hard” in hard work. I stumbled across this service and decided to try their print-on-demand and other services.  Here are my honest thoughts about [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) and what it brings to the e-commerce table, but before that you would like to check this video about it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTuGdRlpJHc ## What Is Printful?  The printing business is challenging. Often, it is a challenge to find a firm that has quality products, ships out on time and has stellar customer support.  Fortunately, there are many choices of printing and printing fulfillment companies out there. [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is one of them.  However, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is more than a store that provides printing solutions. It also falls into the category of a dropshipping company.  ![](/images/posts/inline/665708e4-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-17_45_28.png) For those who are not familiar with the concept, a dropshipper is a supplier that manufactures your buyer’s orders, stores them for you, packages them, and ships them out. As a seller, you essentially only have to upload your designs; the dropshipping company takes care of the rest.  If, aside from printing shirts and mugs, you want to create your clothing line through [dropshipping](https://www.forbes.com/sites/laura-inamedinova/2016/05/16/how-to-launch-your-ecommerce-store-in-a-day/#3e88bdd93916), then look no further than [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) to supply your needs.  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is an on-demand print solutions firm that doubles as a dropshipper. The firm prints artwork and customized designs on many different items, including shirts, tank tops, and hats.  For people who just want to buy clothes, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) also has a retail service so that you can purchase personalized clothing for yourself. The store is also famous for its seamless and fast dropshipping solutions.  With this, the store allows many [online businesses and e-commerce owners to earn money](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) without manufacturing a single product or having to worry about shipping and fulfillment. Just provide them with your designs and specifications, and they will do the rest.  One more thing that makes [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) attractive to users is it can be easily integrated into many e-commerce platforms, such as WooCommerce, Etsy, [Wix, and Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/).  ## How does Printful work?  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) on-demand dropshipping is a convenient way to conduct business online. The system works like this.  1. If you have an online store, connect it to [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) by linking your e-commerce store and [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) account. Fill the storefronts with your designs.  2. Once a customer buys from your store, the order is automatically sent to [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/). They will then print, pack, and ship it out to your customer themselves.  3. When [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) ships the order, you (the seller) will receive a tracking number to track the shipment.  4. The customer receives the order in a package covered with your brand. This makes it look like you manufactured and shipped out the product yourself.   ![](/images/posts/inline/9d013dab-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-18_22_26.png) Every time a buyer makes a purchase, they pay the price with a mark-up, while the seller only pays [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) the wholesale price of the product.  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) also has an iOS and Android app to make things easier. With it, you can manage your store and confirm orders anywhere and anytime.  With [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/), you do not need to worry about holding any inventory or manufacturing any item. The company has an excellent offering for people who want to experience the low-cost benefits of a dropshipping arrangement.  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) will help you fulfill your dream of selling custom printed products such as clothes, bags, and covers. This is all without the need to keep inventory, manage a warehouse, and the hassle of stock management. To help you get started, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) has simple lessons and guides to get you started and teach you the things you ought to know. Topics such as building your digital store and the dropshipping model are readily available.  ## Printful: Overview What [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) prides themselves in, and what their users vouch for, is their quality. The store is their go-to firm for their printing needs because the quality of their products is high.  The product catalog includes the following.  1. Men’s clothing 2. Women’s clothing 3. Kids and youth clothing  4. Collections  5. Hats 6. Home and Living  7. Accessories  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) has a wide assortment of products, and you will find most of what you need. Also, you are assured of the fact that the items are sturdy and won’t rip easily, the prints won’t fade quickly, and the delivery won’t be late.  As is with just about everything else in the world, nothing or no one is perfect. Some reviews are saying that the prints are not as good as they thought, or of customer service not being up to par.  But these are few and far between, and most reviewers agree that [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is still top of its class.  One sure way to know if [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) conforms to your needs is to upload some designs and samples and let the company do the printing and shipping for you. You can compare the quality, pricing, and fulfillment speed with other printing companies, and decide the one you will employ.  ## Printful: Ease of use  The fact that [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is designed for artists, fashionistas, and creative designers, makes it easier for everyone,  even those without an e-commerce background, to use it well. [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is very easy and effective to use for growing your online store because of its simple [dropshipping](https://www.bigcommerce.com/blog/dropshipping/) and growth model.  Choose from the selection of [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) products, submit logos or custom designs, and get those packages sent to them, all while eliminating the need for middlemen. [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) allows you more time to set up and manage your store because it takes away the hassle and costs of order fulfillment. With one click, everything is in place for your customer to receive their order.   ### The Mockup Generator  The [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) Mockup Generator is one of its most powerful features. It is easy-to-use as the mockups are generated quickly  and you can see how your designs would look like when printed.   These mockups and print files can be used to show your customers how the products would look. You can post them on your eCommerce store, on flyers and catalogs, anywhere you would market your business.  ![](/images/posts/inline/3b39c126-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-17_52_00.png) This mockup generator works for all [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) products. You can also see how hats or bags would look like.  Some products, however, can be viewed in different styles. For instance, the shirt mockups can be customized with wrinkles, or with models.  However, the generator is quite inconsistent. It does not generate a back image mockup if the back of the shirt is not printed. If you have a design only on one side of the shirt, then the purchaser will only be able to view the printed side.. Even though the plain side of the shirt does not have much to offer but it is a normal purchase instinct to view the whole product before buying.  ### File Library and Dashboard  [Printful’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) dashboard is easy to navigate around. Adding your [pre-created logos and art files](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/) is easy, provided you follow the graphics requirements, which are pretty much almost the same across platforms. ![](/images/posts/inline/b09b9de0-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-18_32_05.png) [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) also has different folders for your various files. This is of great use if you want to organize files, or when you have seasonal collections or theme choices.  This is one significant advantage of [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/), as many print-on-demand stores have no file library where you can store your designs. Anytime you want to create or edit a design or apply it to a different item, you have to start all over again with the uploading.  ### Editing screen  The editing screen of [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is equally simple. This proves as a double-edged sword, depending on want you aim to create.  If you want to make a cool design with their built-in editor and pre-made styles, then you have limited options. [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) offers emojis and only basic shapes, and about a dozen fonts for text.  However, if you already have your graphic designs made, then it is pretty easy to add those designs to the platform.  ![](/images/posts/inline/bbe0dc87-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-18_30_06.png) One gripe I have with [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is the inability to mass edit the variables of a product. Yes, the design library saves time, but you will have to create each merchandise variant from scratch.  It is quite a huge time sink and is one of the significant functional or technological drawbacks of the platform.  ## Printful: Designs and sales Designing a product through [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is easy enough, and the site itself has guides and resources you can follow. You can upload the designs onto the products or create something new right out of the [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) dashboard.  ### Overall designing  You might need to change stuff when, for example, the JPGs you upload from your computer are too small to print. But once you find the right quality, the whole process is seamless.  Mockups are provided to show your customers how the product will look like once it’s printed.  After designing, you can save the created item to your platform if you are a seller, or place the custom order if you want to buy. If your eCommerce platform has already been linked to [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/), then the product will automatically be synced to your online store.  ![](/images/posts/inline/487f8624-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-18_40_09.png) [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) also allows you to order in advance, and what you buy will be stored in the [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) warehouse. There is also same-day fulfillment for those orders your customers want to receive right away.  You can order product samples so that you can test them out in a real-world setting, Furthermore, there is no limit on the minimum order of a sample, but there are limits for each month.  Once you are registered in the platform, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) will send you one sample order per month with two items maximum for the order. An owner who connected an eCommerce platform with [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) has an added benefit of two sample orders per month, with three items per order.   Once your store starts generatingat least $300 a month, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) allows up to 3 sample orders monthly with four items per order.  ### Fabric A persistent problem in the print-on-demand industry is getting quality fabric at a reasonable price. [Printful’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) current apparel manufacturer partners are as follows.  1. American Apparel  2. Gildan  3. Hanes 4. Next Level Tee  5. Bella + Canvas  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) offers many fabric types, including 100% cotton, 100% polyester, and Cotton/Spandex blend. However, there are also popular fabric types that they do not offer, such as denim, athletic wear, and microfibers.  ### Sales integration  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is an excellent tool for online selling on its own. Compared to other dropshipping stores, it is one of the most affordable and efficient ones out there.   Products are easily customizable, and you can send them straight to your customers for a small monthly fee, all in a couple of days.   Expand [Printful’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) functionality through integration with [leading eCommerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/). You can integrate the site to add your online selling options.  Integration options include:  1. Magento 2. Wish  3. Weebly  4. BigCommerce 5. Squarespace  6. WooCommerce  7. Wix   [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) has an app on Shopify, and apps as well as extensions on sites such as Squarespace and BigCommerce. There is also a custom integration software to connect [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) to any website or app.  ### Warehousing and fulfillment Printful offers warehousing and fulfillment services for those who would like to opt for them. This service can be used for both [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) and non-Printful product items.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o823KiE4Oi0#action=share First, you will submit a list of items you want to keep inside their warehouse, and [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) will approve them. Once done, you can then ship the items in a package to [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/).   These items are then stocked in their warehouse. If you want to start selling, you can sync them with your store.   Upon the order of your product, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) picks and ships them to your customer. Their warehouses are situated in Charlotte, North Carolina, and in Riga, Latvia for Europe.   [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) prides in offering warehousing and fulfillment in its affordable pricing scheme, withno maintenance fees to pay.  ### Shipping  Once an order is placed, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) prints and ships the products on demand. Generally, it takes the company 2-5 days to create non-apparel products and 2-7 days for apparel items.   The average shipping time is four days, which depends on the destination of the order. [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) routes the orders to specific fulfillment centers to make logistics easier.  ![](/images/posts/inline/ee18e81a-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-18_12_33.png) [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) shipping rates are available on their website [Shipping](https://www.printful.com/shipping) page. Remember to set your shipping prices on your store so that you can set your profit margins.  Integrating shipping differs for each eCommerce platform. Navigate to the same shipping page, choose the platform of your choice, and follow the instructions to set up store shipping.  ## Printful: Customer support  There are mixed reviews pertaining to Printful’s customer support, but the majority say that [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is better than the competition. The website has a FAQ page, dedicated guides, and blog posts to make your experience easier and smoother.  Shipping is relatively fast, and the return policy gets a plus for me. It covers most of the events and circumstances where [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is at fault.   ![](/images/posts/inline/8a10f888-screenshot-www.printful.com-2020.06.18-18_18_01.png) Support is accessible in many ways. They have chat support specialists who can accommodate your needs through chat and email support. They are also available during the weekdays through telephone.  I have no significant doubts about the customer support of [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/); they are cheerful, helpful, and responsive to queries.  ## Who should use Printful?  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) could be for anyone. It has a dedicated marketplace, so you can purchase personalized apparel from the market. You can print items with your designs for different uses, such as prizes for giveaways, gifts, or souvenirs.  But people who can benefit from the full functionality [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) provides are the online store owners delving in the printing industry. If you are looking for a company that can help jumpstart your printed apparel online business, while also taking care of the inventory safekeeping and shipping to your customer, then [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is the one for you.  ## Alternatives to Printful  Yes, [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) provides stellar quality and service at a reasonable price. If I have to recommend printing and dropshipping solutions, I would recommend [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) 9 times out of 10.  [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) does stand out from the bunch, but it is not the only printing solution out there. You may not like [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) for whatever reason you may have, so here are comparisons with some of its competing and alternative providers.  ### Printify Both [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) and Printify provide answers to your printing needs. One edge of Printify over [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is the sheer quantity of its product offerings. Printify offers over 250 products.   Unline [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/), Printify outsources the printing and order fulfillment process. This means you are not working directly with the brand, but with its partners.  I don’t know how this impacts the pricing scheme, but this is something to keep in mind.  Additionally, Printify does not support screen printing, but [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) does. International delivery can take as long as 30 days under Printify.  Furthermore, one more service that [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) has over Printify is that while the former warehouses the products, the latter does not.  ### Teelaunch Teelaunch is relatively new, and also offers the same dropshipping model and option as [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/). Teelaunch has a wide array of unique products you can print on, including the unusual items such as headphones, speakers, and dog bowls.  However, unlike [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/), which can integrate into a lot of eCommerce platforms, Teelaunch can only be linked to Shopify. If you do not have a Shopify store, then you can’t use Teelaunch.   ### Print Aura Print Aura is another company for those who want to launch their clothing line. There are 100 different kinds of t-shirts to choose from, and the option for more types of merchandise, such as bags and hats.  Print Aura delivers the same quality and customer service. However, you cannot choose who will fulfill the order for you, and some of their items are more expensive than [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/).  If you are on a budget, or you just want to go for something cheaper, then stick with [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) instead.  ## Final Words [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) is an excellent service for those who would like to take advantage of the cheap and efficient dropshipping model. With it, you can design the products yourself and sell them to the different parts of the world without worrying about how to do it.  Expect quality prints every time, without needing your printers and other hardware. [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) blows the competition out of the water with its supreme quality and fast shipping.   I recommend [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/) to the store owners looking to try custom printing and dropshipping. There are three things: the product quality is an industry leader, it is easy to use, navigate, and link to your store and you receive welcome samples of your items.  Have you had experience with [Printful](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/printful/)? What are your thoughts?  Let me know in the comments below!  Here are more reviews for you. - [Reviewing MonsterInsights](https://alejandrorioja.com/monsterinsights-review/)  - [Screaming Frog – All you need to know](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-screaming-frog/)  - [Buzzstream – How it works](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzstream-review/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Quuu And Quuu Promote Review: Which One Do You Need? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/quuu-and-quuu-promote-review/ Published: 2020-06-16 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: SEO TL;DR: Quuu is a tool that curates content in more than 500 different interest categories, which gives businesses relevant post ideas at all times. ## Table of contents [Digital marketers and social media marketers](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) can all agree that producing content regularly can be a quite exhausting task, especially in a time where we have information overload.  The world of digital marketing is constantly changing and evolving, and staying in touch with that is of great importance for running a successful business.  That is why I like to keep up with what’s new and valuable out there when it comes to tools helping with automating content promotion and research.  One of the most talked-about tools in that area is Quuu, which is why I decided to review it and share my two cents on it.  In this article, you can read all about Quu- what is it, how does it work, what are the benefits, and the same about Quuu Promote. ## What is Quuu? Starting with the basics, Quuu is a content curation service that makes scheduling and planning of social media campaigns easier for businesses.  Now, you may wonder [what is content curation](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/)?  In simple terms, content curation means providing value and consistency to your viewers by sharing the right type of content.  It can make your business’ social media stand out from all the other social media profiles in your industry.  Doing content curation the right way can be too time-consuming for businesses which is why tools like Quuu are here to help out.  ![](/images/posts/inline/5b6e1cdf-screenshot-quuu.co-2020.06.16-18_10_25.png) Quuu is a tool that curates content in more than 500 different interest categories, which gives businesses relevant post ideas at all times.  The best thing about Quuu, is that all of the content is hand-reviewed by their team for real!  This means you will end up with [high-quality, relevant content](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/) that will make a difference to your business.  ### How to get started with Quuu? According to Quuu’s website, getting started with the tools is pretty easy and straightforward.  It takes four steps to start the process and those are:  1. **Connecting to your favorite social tool**: currently, the only places that you can connect to Quuu from are Buffer or HubSpot. The Quuu team is working on allowing more integrations in the near future. If you are using a different tool, they would appreciate your feedback for future decision-making.  2. **Select your interests**: the second step includes selecting interests from more than 500 categories on which you can receive content. Choose the categories according to which topics are important for your business and your target audience.  3. **Choose the number of suggestions:** you can choose several suggestions that you like to be sent to your social profiles every day using Buffer or HubSpot accounts.  4. **Choose the best option:** you can either choose automatic and let Quuu take care of everything, or you can manually approve suggestions from the dashboard that you agree with. ### Pricing When it comes to pricing, [Quuu offers](https://quuu.co/#findoutmore) three different plans that you can choose from depending on what your budget and goals are. The first one is the *Free Plan* which will cost you nothing. With this plan, you will get the following in return: 1. Up to 6 new content suggestions per day per profile  2. Sending the content to only 1 social media profile 3. 1 Pod included 4. RSS feeds If you feel like you would need a bit more than this, the second plan is the *Pro Plan* and it’s the most popular one they have.  The price of this plan is $8.33/month paid annually, or if you pay month after month it’s $19 per month.  With the Pro Plan you get the following:  1. Up to 6 new content suggestions per day per profile 2. Sending the content to 10 social media profiles 3. Up to 3 Pods included 4. RSS Feed Seeds The third option and the most expensive one is the *Business Plan.* The price for this plan is $40.83 per month paid annually, or if you’re paying month by month it’s $50 per month.  Of course, it has the biggest amount of advantages, and those are:  1. Up to 6 new content suggestions per day per profile 2. Up to 10 team members 3. Sending content to 100 social media profiles 4. Unlimited Pods 5. RSS feeds and teams ## What is Quuu Promote? As I told you previously, Quuu is a content curation service. Businesses are in need of quality content, and on the other side, the creators of that content always need promotion of their content.  Quuu Promote basically goes to the other side of the story, or the content promoting by the content creators.  It is basically a content marketing tool that will promote your content in all of those more than 500 categories that have been mentioned previously, and will give you a chance to have your content shared by a lot of users of Quuu. ![](/images/posts/inline/db3840d3-image5.png) In fact, Quuu Promote is the only tool of this kind that uses actual people to share the content on social media platforms getting content owners tons of shares, mentions, traffic visits, engagement, etc.  And the best thing is that those people are a part of your target audience because the content is relevant in the chosen category. ### What are the benefits of Quuu Promote? There are some benefits to using Quuu Promote and those are:  1. **Using real people to promote your blog**: there is no bot-sharing that can be too vague. Actual people that have Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn profiles are viewing and sharing the content that you see on your promotions.  2. **Promoting to the relevant audience:** Quuu Promote not only increases engagement and traffic to your blog, but that traffic is from the right audience. People who are interested in your content. The guided content promotion process will help you to optimize the content for the best results. That is how the content will get shared and liked by people. 3. **Higher SEO social signals:** the reason why companies love this tool is that it genuinely [improves the shares and likes from real people](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/). Good social signals from social media platforms can mean better rankings on the search engines.  4. **Boost your content marketing strategy:** it is very easy to boost your content marketing strategy by using Quuu Promote. There are more than 40,000 people who are sharing content every day in over 500 categories.  ### Pricing  When it comes to pricing, Quuu Promote operates on a different scale than Quuu. Basically, you pay per promotion in a month.  The pricing starts at $40 per promotion and for that price, it runs for 30 days.  They guarantee to promote it on social media platforms and reach the right audience, eliminating bots. This is Plan 1.  Plan 2 is paying $70 for2 promotions each in a month. Plan 5 is the most popular one where you pay $150 for 5 promotions per month.  Then there are Plan 11 which is $300 per 11 promotions in a month and Plan 20 which requires $500 for 20 promotions per month.  According to the quantity of content promotion, and your budget,  you can choose the best plan for your needs.  ## Guidelines for promoting content on Quuu Promote  You can’t just promote any content on Quuu Promote, of course. Actually, the tool has quite a few guidelines for determining what valuable and high-quality content is and how it can be promoted.  So, if you are considering using this tool, be aware of the following things:  1. Your content should not contain abusive language, adult content, or any other offensive words 2. It should not be promotional or sales-focused (it should focus on being helpful instead of selling a product/service) 3. It should be written in the English language  4. It should not be difficult to look at (having too many pop-ups, ads, etc) 5. The content should be relevant for at least the 30-day promotion period, and should not be outdated.  6. The content should be free of grammatical errors.  7. The promotion can’t be done for a home page, index page, or social media post (it has to be an individual piece of content, blog, or content platform) 8. The content shouldn’t be too specific for the intended category (eg. only relevant for the audience in one location) 9. The content should not have any dead links 10. The content should not be too biased or opinionated, stating one side of things  11. The content should not be a part of another category to avoid having duplicates (you can assign another category once the first promotion is done) 12. You should check if the interest category has over 33% of the content from this source (if there are too many posts from the same source, Quuu will let you know) Additionally, there are two more rules that are subjective and are for inclusion.  - The content should offer enough interest or value (usually content that helps, entertains, informs, or inspires) - The content itself should not be offensive, inappropriate, or shocking  ## How to get started with Quuu Promote?  The process is not too complicated so probably all of you can do it without any complications.  The first thing to do, of course, is to register. It’s a simple process just like any online registration.  Input your information, register, and voila!   Once you do that, try getting familiar with the dashboard and the guidelines. When you think you are ready to create a promotion click on “Promote a post”.  ![](/images/posts/inline/73012b53-screenshot-promote.quuu_.co-2020.06.16-18_16_35.png) The next step is to paste the URL of the content that you want to promote. ![](/images/posts/inline/0c35138c-screenshot-promote.quuu_.co-2020.06.16-18_18_10.png) Then pick the category of interest.  ![](/images/posts/inline/9af455e6-screenshot-promote.quuu_.co-2020.06.16-18_19_03.png) After that, you need to create one social media post for [Twitter (with shorter descriptions)](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) and another one for Facebook and LinkedIn. On the image below you can see what Quuu Promote recommends you to take into consideration when creating a Twitter post.  ![](/images/posts/inline/2de21f41-screenshot-promote.quuu_.co-2020.06.16-18_20_38.png) For Facebook and LinkedIn, Quuu Promote has different recommendations.  ![](/images/posts/inline/c02b82e6-screenshot-promote.quuu_.co-2020.06.16-18_21_44.png) Save what you just did. The post will be saved as a draft so you can make additional editing or just submit it.  After that, you need to wait for the review which can take anywhere from 3 to 5 days so you need to take this time into account if you have content that is time-sensitive.  Another option that you have is paying an additional fee to put your content at the front to the reviewing queue.  ![](/images/posts/inline/7356f17a-image6.png) Adding custom images in the content is something you can consider doing. There are preferred dimensions defined by Quuu Promote that you should take into account when creating graphics for Twitter or Facebook/LinkedIn.  ## Bottom line To sum up, both Quuu and Quuu Promote can be quite helpful tools that both – businesses and content creators can use.  If you need a content curation tool to take off the time-consuming efforts for you, giving Quuu a chance might be worth it.  It can work out for you and offer your audience valuable and consistent content that is relevant to their needs.  With this, your business has the chance to differentiate from the competition and [earn the loyalty of the customers.](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/)  When it comes to Quuu Promote, it is nice that they are offering a promotion of one single post.  This way, you can easily just go and try this once or a few times, and see the results for yourself.  If you found this post helpful and want to check out some other reviews I did, I recommend the following:  - [Find out if MonsterInsights is the right tool for your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/monsterinsights-review/).  - [Use Screaming Frog and take your website to new highs](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-screaming-frog/)  - [All you need to know about Buzzstream](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzstream-review/)  If you are interested in reading some other reviews, leave your suggestion for me in the comments below. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Shopify Vs. Wix: What Should You Choose For Your Online Business Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-wix/ Published: 2020-06-15 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: It has helped 600,000 businesses online with combined revenue of $55 billion. It is a complete framework that lets you start and grow your online business. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links through which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* I am going to say it again – I am an e-commerce junkie. I have tried one e-commerce platform to another in the pursuit of finding what would be the best for my store, and finding the one for me is not an easy task. If you realize that this is the best time to start your online shop, then you have already taken the first step to venture onto e-commerce. If you have been on my page, you know I already have a recommended list for you. What this entry will do is review top contenders for the [best e-commerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) – Wix and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/).  I understand that some of you would want choices but might get overwhelmed with all the platforms out there. I will give you a comparison of the two so you could make up your mind. Both platforms – Wix and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), can offer a lot for your online store’s success. To learn more about the advantages and features of these platforms, here is a review: ## How platforms help Ecommerce ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/trwGshAJ61IpzSnzCfVKvt-NfSYVvTwNkL0sNiu9Epb7-GRIexxU1GpvSeOakzhO4oAj3pMr07TNiwIpIySky5yBMf_ASlWJLKTbp5fj48t2ipvVi_8Wp8_hjTbcdQgzVcGKdqD0) You already have an idea for your store, and you have been [researching how to make it successful](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/). I know you have come across the term “e-commerce platform” more than once and have asked yourself what it is and what would be the best for you. A piece of software, an E-Commerce platform, lets you create and build your shop online and run it virtually. It provides you with the tools needed to successfully manage your business – from the inventory to your stocks, to sales and marketing, and the day-to-day business operations. An ecommerce platform lets you be competitive in the market. FIrst, decide what kind of e-commerce entrepreneur you want to be and how to get the ball rolling. Next, decide on the niche and [start building your store](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/). This chance to build your online business from scratch could all sound overwhelming. I could attest to that.  The good news is – these platforms do not require advanced skills on web designing to create one. There are many platforms to consider, and there are many features to weigh and consider. Here’s a rundown of the two of them. Relevant: Read the comparison of Shopify and Amazon [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) ## Shopify at a glance [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) was designed and launched as a platform for online businesses. It has helped 600,000 businesses online with combined revenue of $55 billion. It is a complete framework that lets you start and grow your online business. It allows you to do the selling, whether it be online, on your physical shop, or any of your social media accounts.  [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is better designed for full-time businesses. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/uzonDLgZHYRzbwVZKXr4AuZoPtbAkd6T-A_kqsXMAeX3TQEmOY-Rq6xqWnqjiGZoPTxSjXYhA_SUNtl5d3agcWrHYbAxEMluM3hL2EAcAwxms5bztJ_MQrTB2yWxW-zFsYogDfpE) ## Wix at a glance Wix’s primary function is to be a platform for content. It could accommodate you if you wish to create brochures, photographer’s portfolios, news sites, or even a straightforward blog site. You could say that this is a better option if your business grows around content or writing or if selling is not the main focus of your website. ![](/images/posts/inline/8d59eb24-screenshot-www.wix_.com-2020.06.15-16_59_12-1.png) ## Wix Vs. Shopify Wix builds websites that eventually came around as an e-commerce platform, while [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) was designed for this very purpose. Even with different initial functionality, Wix does not  offer you less than [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/).      The question now is: Are you a consistent user or a hopeful entrepreneur in the e-commerce world? I will go through the differences and possible deal breakers at an even closer look and help you decide.   ### Basic Functionality When talking about the ease of use, both platforms have good things to offer and can be impressive. Basic functionality is what lets you navigate the page quickly, which could also mean you spend more time selling than going around your page. .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_a2e842-87, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_a2e842-87{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_a2e842-87 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_a2e842-87 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_a2e842-87 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_a2e842-87 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. Structured fit for online selling 2. Easier to add products 3. Editing and dashboard interface is detached 4. Takes time in getting used to .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_9f3aca-92, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_9f3aca-92{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_9f3aca-92 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_9f3aca-92 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_9f3aca-92 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_9f3aca-92 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Wix 1. Simple drag-and-drop functionality – click on a feature and drag it wherever you want it to be. 2. Good for creativity but a little puzzling when it comes to adding goods. 3. Themes are less restrictive ### Customizability and designs The first thing that people notice is design. You are more likely to visit a shop that has everything in order and which the aesthetic appeals to you, rather than a shop that looked like it was not given a thought. .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_655857-44, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_655857-44{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_655857-44 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_655857-44 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_655857-44 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_655857-44 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. Specially designed for selling and themes are geared towards it 2.  Independent designers create the theme templates and have a more inclusive range of free and paid templates 3. No design skills necessary 4. [Easy to customize](https://getshogun.com/learn/shopify-theme-customization) themes 5. Designs cater mobiles, too ![](/images/posts/inline/34ffa23f-screenshot-www.shopify.com-2020.06.15-17_18_30-1.png) .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_241fb4-e0, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_241fb4-e0{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_241fb4-e0 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_241fb4-e0 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_241fb4-e0 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_241fb4-e0 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Wix 1. Unable to switch after initial design choice 2. Customizing the design plan can only be done by the Wix code. 3. Designs cater mobiles, too 4. Over 500 design templates available 5. Templates are of general models and need customization to turn it to an online shop ![](/images/posts/inline/8d456ddc-screenshot-www.wix_.com-2020.06.15-17_15_52.png) ### Sales and marketing capability You would think that [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) would be on the lead as e-commerce is its primary function. On the other hand, Wix has something up its sleeve. Sometimes, it all boils down to presentation. If your products look beautiful, they can be sold. - **Sales function** [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is a one-stop-shop for your online business. Wix, may not be powerful, but would still impress you with the things you can do on this platform. .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_784e55-fc, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_784e55-fc{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_784e55-fc mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_784e55-fc mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_784e55-fc img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_784e55-fc img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. Requires integration of a 3rd party to sell digital products 2.  Allows selling of physical, service, and digital products 3. Allows you to add limitless items of multiple variants 4. You’ll need an app to zoom photos and play videos .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_5a65e0-c2, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_5a65e0-c2{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_5a65e0-c2 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_5a65e0-c2 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_5a65e0-c2 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_5a65e0-c2 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Wix 1. Allows selling of tangible, service, and digital products 2. Requires an app to sell services and products 3. The video function is built-in in the site 4. Unique check out page for your brand **Marketing function** There are so many apps that you can use together with the e-commerce platform that can help you [promote your brand or shop](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/). .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_d3260e-21, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_d3260e-21{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_d3260e-21 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_d3260e-21 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_d3260e-21 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_d3260e-21 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. Heavily relies on 3rd party apps for marketing #### Wix 1.  Wix Ascend – a separate subscription that will let you manage your marketing campaigns as an all-in-one marketing solution ### Social media integration and email marketing [Connecting  to social media platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) like Facebook and Instagram and marketplaces like Amazon and eBay helps establish your business and boost sales. While Wix does not support social media integration, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) offers this feature. .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_adf8dd-a8, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_adf8dd-a8{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_adf8dd-a8 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_adf8dd-a8 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_adf8dd-a8 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_adf8dd-a8 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. Allows selling across different channels and platforms or multi-channel integration 2. Enables creation of email campaigns on the admin page 3. Can integrate with Omnisend Marketing and Privy .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_0c73d4-34, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_0c73d4-34{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_0c73d4-34 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_0c73d4-34 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_0c73d4-34 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_0c73d4-34 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Wix 1. No capability of linking to social media sites 2. Can only send three e-mails with no Ascend subscription 3. Needs to subscribe to Wix Ascent for premium features ### Blogging and SEO Blogging is the unique function of creating content to get the word out about your online shop.  [Search Engine Optimization (SEO)](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2020/03/02/how-does-e-commerce-seo-work/#2445e4166c6c) is the ability to rank solid in search engines .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_3d4499-59, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_3d4499-59{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_3d4499-59 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_3d4499-59 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_3d4499-59 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_3d4499-59 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. Blogging capability is not as impressive – no blog-specific and built-in analytics feature 2. Needs Liquid developer for blog customization .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_1443a4-49, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_1443a4-49{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_1443a4-49 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_1443a4-49 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_1443a4-49 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_1443a4-49 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Wix 1. Creates blogs beautifully and seamlessly built but there’s no archive option 2. Wix is built for novice users who want to design their page 3. No Archive functionality for blogs – saving old posts for future readability Both Wix and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) make it easier for your page to be searchable on search engines. They can also: - Customize URLs for easy search - Add and edit meta titles and headlines - Add alt text to the images attachment - Offer best SEO practice guidance ### Payment and shipping option Your online shop would need a facility to process credit and debit card payments. Shipping is the ability to transport the products to your customers after payment is processed. .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_75a264-b4, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_75a264-b4{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_75a264-b4 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_75a264-b4 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_75a264-b4 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_75a264-b4 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. Has coverage for 100 payment gateways but Square with transaction fees for 3rd party gateways 2. No charge for [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Payment 3. Offers free shipping to sync with other shippers .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_713636-92, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_713636-92{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_713636-92 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_713636-92 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_713636-92 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_713636-92 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Wix 1. Traditional payment options including Square, but does not accept Amazon and Apple Pay 2. No charge for 3rd party gateways 3. Does not offer printable labels and would need other apps for global shipping. **Selling in multiple currencies** More sales would usually mean more sales. This requires more effort and a whole lot of marketing strategies. This could also mean selling to more places and catering to potential customers, even from other countries. This feature allows consumers to see the price in their currency and check out and pay using the same. #### Shopify 1. The multi-currency payment option is built-in on other templates 2. Ability to sell in local currencies using a multi-currency app #### Wix 1. Will require a currency converter app to see local price 2. Does not allow for checking out on other currencies. **Point of sale function** This option will enable you to build a physical store or stall. POS allows you to accept payments using card readers installed on smartphones and still sync on your site’s inventory. Both have POS functionality, however, ####  Shopify 1. POS functionality is available on almost all countries 2. A key feature and integrated on [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) #### Wix 1. Only available in the US, using Square 2.  POS is an additional product, and you need to work with Square to make it work Dropshipping [Dropshipping](https://www.forbes.com/sites/theyec/2019/08/30/four-tips-for-starting-a-successful-dropshipping-business/#30469974f7fc) is best if you do not have the space to keep products, or you just want to keep less. It is an online retail approach that lets you take the order and forward it to your supplier so they can take care of the shipping. ####  Shopify 1. Lets you connect to multiple dropshipping companies using an app #### Wix 1. Recently integrated Modalyst in their features to allow dropshipping. ### Inventory and abandoned cart management It helps you manage and keep track of the products sold and goods that are still available. Your list would let you deliver your products promptly. Abandoned Cart Management is a vital feature that lets you send a follow-up email to your customers who have not checked out their carts yet. This enables you to recover lost sales. #### Shopify 1.  Lets you upload multiple products 2. Inventory gets updated even on stall or store sales 3. Lets you use the stock management tool, download revenue reports, and the inventory interface is easy to navigate. 4. Sends one follow up email for carts not yet checked out #### Wix 1. Limited stock inventory management functionality 2. Would require 3rd party apps if you need an inventory report or analysis of site visitors 3. Sends two automated emails for abandoned carts as follow up but requires a 3rd party app. ### Pricing and set-up fees Both Wix and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) are free of setting up fees for your first online store. You will only be charged for premium sites and if you wish to use the tools for your online shop. .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_358e4e-03, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_358e4e-03{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_358e4e-03 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_358e4e-03 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_358e4e-03 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_358e4e-03 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify [Three main plans](https://www.shopify.com/pricing) for [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/): 1. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Basic – $29/month 2. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) – $79/month 3. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Advanced $299/month [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Basic should be enough for your online store needs unless you’re a bigger store catering to a bigger market. It already has discount codes, unlimited storage for products, and integration of multi-channel. It is advisable to upgrade to [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and Advanced [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) if you want to get better data analytics and reporting. You can enjoy [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) [14-day free trial](https://www.shopify.com/free-trial?ref=wbe&subid1=wxvsshop&subid2=b8555057c786e3d268306d8d13b7c6e3) to get the hang of it. ![](/images/posts/inline/6183b1d6-image6.jpg) .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_f0ac04-ab, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_f0ac04-ab{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_f0ac04-ab mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_f0ac04-ab mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_f0ac04-ab img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_f0ac04-ab img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Wix  [Three main plans](https://www.wix.com/upgrade/website) for Wix 1. Basic business – $20/month 2. Unlimited business – $25/month 3. VIP Business – $35/month ![](/images/posts/inline/4e52fc0e-screenshot-www.wix_.com-2020.06.15-18_30_21.png) All three plans come with 20GB-50GB data storage, $300 ad vouchers, and unlimited bandwidth. The Business VIP plan would get you priority support and response. #### Both Shopify and Wix 1. No implemented charges for bandwidth 2. No transaction fee – only credit card processing fees 3. Free 14-day trial period **You can sign up for [Wix’s Premium Plan](https://www.wixanswers.com/) 14-day trial period and see if it suits you and your needs.** ### Apps and add ons Embedding apps on your online store allows you to access more tools and features to boost your shop’s performance. There are also mobile apps that you manage your shop on the go and at the palm of your hands. .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_16192b-17, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_16192b-17{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_16192b-17 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_16192b-17 mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_16192b-17 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading\_16192b-17 img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;} #### Shopify 1. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) App Store – allows your customer to create a wishlist, set delivery to dropship and use currency conversion 2. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) mobile app – you can manage your store wherever you are 3. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS mobile app – for [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) users with physical shops or market stalls and need to sync inventory and take payments ![](/images/posts/inline/0b03e433-screenshot-apps.shopify.com-2020.06.15-18_31_53.png) #### Wix 1. Ecwid – sets up your abandoned cart emails and gives access to global shipping payments 2. Wix has a multilingual app powerful enough that turns your site into any language. 3. Wix Mobile App can create blogs and manage events ![](/images/posts/inline/70cacd88-screenshot-www.wix_.com-2020.06.15-18_33_34.png) ### Technical and customer support It is possible that you have reached this part and still have not decided which e-commerce platform you will use to start your online business. The make or break of it all – customer service. #### Shopify 1. 24/7 Customer Support 2. Live chat support available 3. Need to sync inventory and take payments 4. Template support is 3rd party 5. Phone support avai;able for 7 regions only – North America, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, Singapore, HongKong, and New Zealand #### Wix 1. In-editor help which answers frequently asked questions 2. Wix Help Center has videos and articles to help you 3. Charges extra for VIP support and urgent response 4. Unable to call but you provide your number, and they will call you back #### Both platforms offer 1. Over the phone and email support 2. Dedicated social media accounts 3. Forums and a help center ## Alternatives to Shopify and Wix Wix and [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) are two of the top contenders in the sea of e-commerce platforms. However, you still have a lot more to choose from, if neither of these two appeals to you. Here are three more alternatives that you might want to consider: #### BigCommerce If you have a bigger business in mind and find [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) or Wix a little smaller-scaled than you want it to be, then BigCommerce is your guy. It’s perfect for rapidly growing enterprises. It has the best and most built-in features compared to any platform. It can help your shop become an e-commerce empire. For stores generating up to $1 million profit, the highest price plan is suitable for you. Here’s where you can check [BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bigcommerce/) and start your 15-day trial period now. #### Squarespace Boasting with the sleekest templates available, your online store would stand out. Although a little trickier to use compared to other e-commerce platforms because it demands more creativity, it still has superb built-in features and a reliable inventory management system. Here’s [Squarespace](https://www.squarespace.com/ecommerce-website). You would also like to read the comparison of Wix vs. Squarespace [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) #### Weebly If you are looking for a more cost-efficient alternative, you can consider Weebly. It is regarded as the best value for money choice out there. It’s easy to use and is for someone who wants to give building a website a chance and has a few sellable products on the side. Anything more complex than the primary e-commerce site [Weebly](https://www.weebly.com/online-store?c=mkt_w_chnl:aff_geo:all_prtnr:sas_subprtnr:611883_camp:brand_adtype:txtlnk_ag:weebly_lptype:hp_var:358504&sscid=31k4_nsj88) offers, you might want to consider other platforms. ## Frequently Asked Questions Here’s a quick question and answer for frequently asked questions: **1\. Can I code on any of these platforms?** A: Yes, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) has Liquid – [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) template language, accessible to make customizations on templates. Wix code can also be accessed to enhance themes and templates. **2\. Do Wix and Shopify support discount functionality?** A: Yes, for both. You can create discount codes for your customers to enjoy. For Wix, you have to set how much. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is more advanced as it lets you give out percentage discounts. **3\. Which is better for SEO functionality?** A: Wix has a bit more advantage here. Both platforms allow URL slugs and meta titles and descriptions; however, only Wix offers keyword support. Wix, since it is a content site, has more stable blogging features, which is essential for Search Engine Optimization. **4\. Will the themes respond to mobiles?** A: Yes. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) has ten free themes and 50+ options for themes with ecommerce capabilities, while Wix has 71. Each one of those themes will work on your phone, so the site looks good on handsets and tablets, too, and could mean an additional to your sale. **5\. Do these platforms support multilingual functionality?** A: Wix allows the set up of different versions of the same page in various languages. It can translate links, texts, SEO settings, and Wix Stores with just a click of a button. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), on the other hand, requires a third-party app, such as GTranslate, to offer this function.  ## Wrapping up These ecommerce platforms let you kickstart your online business. Both have pros and cons and would depend on the kind of entrepreneur that you are or want to be. Wix Vs. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is a battle between two outstanding platforms and great online shop builders.  These two powerful platforms can impact your online store and make a significant difference in its future. Wix Is more of a general-purpose platform and would be perfect if you are looking to build this kind of website. The layout tools and a more comprehensive range of templates make it suitable for this kind of business. Wix’s no transaction fee and abandoned cart recovery management that sends two follow up e-mails are plus sides on top of selling cheaper than [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/). [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), on the other hand, works with fully responsive templates, has multi-currency functionality, has a broader range of essential apps, and it’s AMP support on products, make it a more business-like choice. Wix is for entrepreneurs who want to start with simple brochures and are not dedicated to full-time selling, while corporate and power users use [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/). Let me know in the comments which of these two you ended up choosing. You can also tell me if there’s any other e-commerce platform you prefer over these so I can check out. Liked this article? Feel free to share it. You can also read more to prepare you on your online business journey. - [Amazon or Shopify? Which one should you choose and why?](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) - [Comparing Etsy and Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-etsy/) - [Wix or Squarespace? Find out which of the two is the best website builder](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) Want me to review any other ecommerce platform? Let me know in the comments below. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## MonsterInsights Review: Features, Pricing, And Competition Comparison Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/monsterinsights-review/ Published: 2020-06-11 Updated: 2024-06-03 Tags: Reviews, SEO TL;DR: MonsterInsights is a Google Analytics plugin for WordPress that is user-friendly and unique. It allows you to manage efficiently, add, and customize Google Analytics tracking services on your WordPress site. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. As a blogger, Google Analytics has been a go-to place for revisions and planning for my blog. However, using [MonsterInsights](https://www.monsterinsights.com/) has made Google Analytics a lot easier to use, and in this article, I will share my perspective on MonsterInsights.  Before going into the review, I will introduce MonsterInsights, and I urge you to watch this video below for a better understanding of my article. ## **MonsterInsights in a Nutshell** MonsterInsights is a Google Analytics plugin for WordPress that is user-friendly and unique.  It allows you to manage efficiently, add, and customize Google Analytics tracking services on your WordPress site. There are two versions of MonsterInsights—the free and Pro versions. The free version lets you install Google Analytics and track primary website data.  The features of the free plugin include simple installation, single click on/off tracking, visitor metrics and reports, and IP traffic control. The pro version comes with all these features and a lot more. ![](/images/posts/inline/1d175ada-screenshot-www.monsterinsights.com-2020.06.11-16_12_07.png) Also read [this guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) on optimizing your website speed. ## **Google Analytics** Google Analytics is an application that helps you understand your site better. It tracks your content, marketing performance, products, and more services to ensure you stay on top of your game.  Google Analytics gives you access to unique insights and capabilities by sharing the data of the visitors on your website. Analytics opens possibilities to share more [user-friendly content](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/) while giving you suggestions that can help improve your marketing. However, with Google Analytics, you have to utilize tracking codes, and if you have no coding experience, it will be difficult to use without help. Also, changing themes and templates on Analytics affects your tracking code. For more information on Google Analytics, here is an article by [**Forbes**](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-analytics-wordpress-plugins/346820/).  ### **Why Plugins and Tools Help** Google Analytics has so much valuable data and is such a powerful tool that it gets overwhelming. An analytics expert may not have so much hassle using the app, but a beginner will struggle with where to start or how to use the data. Because of these few limitations with Google Analytics, using plugins and tools makes the application more comfortable to use and more beginner-friendly. It gives you all your information at a glance. Having an excellent analytics tool will help you in the following areas: 1. Improving and optimizing your site by setting and tracking your conversion goals 2. Showing you the types of content your audience likes to help you in creating content.  3. Helping you with tactical marketing by showing you how people find your site ## **Review of MonsterInsights** MonsterInsights is a rebrand of Google Analytics by Yoast and has an essential goal of making analytics easy for beginners. Boasting over 2 million installations, MonsterInsights is one of the best Google Analytics plugins for WordPress.  [Search Engine Journal](https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-analytics-wordpress-plugins/346820/) named MonsterInsights as the number one of the three best Google Analytics plugins—comparing it to Analytify and Google Analytics Dashboard for WP, and I have to say I agree with them. ![](/images/posts/inline/ff513dbe-home-graph-preview.png) ### **Features** MonsterInsights comes with several features.  Some are universal tracking, Google Analytics dashboard, page-level analytics, real-time statistics, affiliate links and [Ads tracking](https://alejandrorioja.com/optinmonster-review/), Enhanced eCommerce tracking, EU compliance, custom dimensions, performance and optimization, and monitoring and integration with other popular WordPress plugins and services. In this section, I will highlight two broad features categories and shed light on them. #### 1\. **Dashboard** The dashboard offers the option of viewing your website’s data without logging in to Google Analytics. The dashboard has three main sections: overview, reports, and custom dimension report. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/MIB_FrI-rmFl2upeMTIxfMt-vBgUBAbc1_WaTHjGGAMio7cWB5LOMLOwW72n9Gji3KorXOe6lmCXjFDZLFt_jwB4fNXJ6qDsy5Q4G5-BW4OdZ7hm3wCMpNW_D46ZMSzffj0y7XjW) ##### **Overview Tab** Once you open the dashboard, there are two visible metrics for sessions and bounce rates 1. **Sessions** are known as individual visits to Analytics. It is a group of interactions that occur on your website. There are usually more pageviews than sessions because every interaction a single user has with your site takes place in a single session. The session metric gives you a general sense of your website’s traffic. It contains multiple clicks, multiple pageviews, and numerous conversions or purchases. 2. **Bounce Rate** measures the number of times a user opened a single page and left the site. If your website was among a Google search result and a user opened it and went back to Google, it counts as a bounce, except they open a second page from your website. Usually, the length of time spent on your page doesn’t matter, but this depends on your settings.  This metric is not very useful without additional information, but it is an excellent gauge for the usability and content quality of your website. A lousy bounce rate may be a good sign based on the content of your website; it could mean one page solved all the queries your viewer had. ##### **Reports Tab** The reports tab gives a three-dimensional traffic report on countries, accessible pages, and traffic sources. The specific report tab can be accessed from a “select dimension” dropdown menu.  In Google Analytics, metric refers to a numerical value, while dimension refers to a name. 1. **Traffic Sources Report** shows you the sources of your sites traffic and their session counts. Search engines are usually at the top of the list because your website could be included in their search results. Also, sites with links to your website can be a source of traffic. This feature is also useful in a case of spam websites linking to your page and skewing traffic data. You can set up data filters if the unrecognizable website activities continue.   2. **Popular Pages Report** shows the popular pages on your website. 3. **Countries Report** lets you see the countries that are the source of your website’s traffic. If you do not want a specific country to have access to your site, you can block them with an IP blocker. #### 2\. **Tracking** A few of the tracking features you can easily enable with MonsterInsights are: 1. With **EU compliance,** you can improve your accordance with privacy and GDPR. This feature is especially helpful with international clients. 2. Understanding which advert slot brings in the most revenue with **Ads tracking.** 3. **Forms tracking** helps you follow-up on-site forms while gathering data on them. 4. Tags, categories, logged in users, authors, searches and more on your website can be tracked with **Custom dimensions.** 5. **Google optimize** helps you to start conducting A/B tests on your site. 6. Using **File download tracking,** you can find out the number of times users download your files. 7. [**Ecommerce tracking**](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) can be enabled for WooCommerce or digital download stores.  8. **Facebook Instant Articles tracking** tracks your Facebook instant articles.  ### **Benefits** The people that need MonsterInsights include [Bloggers](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) and publishers, Business websites, eCommerce store owners, and Developers and agencies. In case you are in doubt of your need for a plugin, here are some of my reasons for recommending MonsterInsights. #### **MonsterInsights helps you Find Analytical Reports in Your WordPress Dashboard** Using MonsterInsights helps you avoid unnecessary logins to your analytics account because it displays the performance of your site on your dashboard. A simple login to your WordPress dashboard gives you all the performance statistics information of your site.  The dashboard also helps when you have multiple editors; you can let them view your insights without breaching unnecessary privacy. #### **MonsterInsights helps you Set up Google Analytics with Ease** Without having to set up codes, making a few clicks can connect your website with Google Analytics. Installing, setting up, and using MonsterInsights on your website and linking to Google Analytics is a straightforward process that I will discuss later in this article. #### **MonsterInsights Increases the Ease of Making Informed Decisions** With Google Analytics, there is a lot of data available to you, but the challenge is with interpretation into useful information. The data provided by Google Analytics is comprehensive and much more comfortable for an analytics expert to understand. Not having any experience in utilizing analytics data, converting the reports into a website helping information may be overwhelming. To make more informed business decisions, you need to separate vital information from redundant information, so you do not drown in the process of improving your webpage. MonsterInsights organizes crucial information and reports in a format that is easy to understand and use. #### **MonsterInsights Integrates Advanced Tracking Features** With MonsterInsights, you can enable several analytics tracking features that you may have missed on your website with ease. Setting up basic analytics tracking is quite simple but is limited and does not enable enhanced tracking reports like form tracking, download tracking, eCommerce tracking, and more. Without a plugin, adding new tracking codes on your site on Google Analytics would be a manual process. To err is human, so you could make slight mistakes that can mess up your Analytics data. MonsterInsights helps you avoid a human error that will skew your data because you will not have to use codes to set up.  Some tracking features enabled in MonsterInsights include EU compliance, custom dimensions, eCommerce tracking, Facebook Instant Articles tracking, Google optimize, Ads tracking, Google AMP tracking, File download tracking, and forms tracking. ### **What Could be Better** MonsterInsights is one of the few tools that have great features that work. For me, the only possible limitation with Analytics, in general, is the possibility of getting hacked and losing sensitive customer information that was saved as cookies. This possibility will cause a severe security breach. As a user, the best way to prevent the use of your data for anything other than business is to delete cache after browsing on cookies using pages. ### **Pricing** There are three payment options for MonsterInsights. These are, 1. **Agency** for companies and agencies at 399.50-799.00 USD every year. It can be used on 25 different sites and comes with all custom reports and tracking solutions. 2. **Pro** includes five sites and charges 199.50-399.00 USD annually. It also comes with fully supported tracking solutions and custom reports. 3. **Plus,** for growing businesses at 99.50-199.00 USD annually. It only supports a single site. This plan supports some tracking solutions except Ecommerce tracking, Enhanced Ecommerce, Form conversion, Google optimize, [SEO score tracking](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/), category/ tags tracking, custom post types, logged-in user tracking, author tracking, [WooCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/edit-remove-woocomerce-checkout-fields/), easy digital downloads, MembersPress, and custom dimensions. Apart from custom dimensions, form conversions, and Ecommerce reports, this plan supports all other custom reports. Due to the guarantee their product has, they offer a 14-days return policy. ## **Competition Comparison** There are multiple plugins on WordPress, but my preference for MonsterInsights is based on these factors. ### **It Doesn’t Require Third-Party Accounts** If you do not want to share your traffic statistics with WordPress, you cannot use a plugin like Jetpack Stats; because Jetpack Stats requires you to connect your site with WordPress to allow tracking. Google Analytics already does the tracking; MonsterInsights connects your website to it and avoids creating new accounts.  ### **Flawless User Experience** Due to ease of setup and beginner-friendly workflow, MonsterInsights tops its competition. Monsterinsights is point-and-click without the need to touch codes to set up Analytics. ### **It is Budget-Friendly and Suits all Website Sizes** There are different pricing for different features and the free lite versions that are all budget-friendly. You can also test the waters with the free version to see if it works for you. ### **It is a Single Product With all the Tracking Features you will Need** Whatever you do, you will find MonsterInsights useful because it helps you track multiple features at once. If you are a blogger and you get a publisher-specific plugin, you will not be able to enjoy some other features. ## **How to Use MonsterInsights** 1. Login to your WordPress admin dashboard and install the MonsterInsights plugin. 2. Activate the MonsterInsights plugin and click launch the wizard in the redirected page. 3. Configure settings and select whether your website is a business site, publisher site or eCommerce site. 4.  Connect MonsterInsights to your website. 5. Then connect your Google Analytics account. 6. Grant necessary permissions. 7. Pick your website profile and complete connection. 8. Modify recommended settings to install updates if you like or not, then save and continue. 9. Pick what every addon you want from the recommendations then save and continue. 10. Finish and exit. Then you can start your insights experience, and view reports from your dashboard directly. ## **Wrapping up!** Sometimes, you may doubt the worth of a plugin, but if you use MonsterInsights, you will get your money’s worth in site improvement choices you will make. As a blogger, I recommend MonsterInsight for your site business. Try not to fly blind and optimize a plugin made to help you get your best website growth yet.   If you have any questions or plugins you want me to feature, tell me in the comments. Also, be kind to share this article with someone that struggles with the use of Google Analytics. For further reading on website optimization, check out these articles.  - [Comparison of Shopify Vs. Amazon](https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/) - [Tips to increase your website traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/amp/) - [What is Screaming Frog and how to use it](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-screaming-frog/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Shopify Vs. Amazon: Which E-Commerce System Is Better Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/shopify-vs-amazon/ Published: 2020-06-10 Updated: 2024-06-01 Tags: E-commerce TL;DR: If you were to pick Amazon as your e-commerce partner, you could be a part of the other 1.7 million sellers that earned at least $118 billion in sales in 2018 in total. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* There are [various forms of businesses](https://www.volusion.com/blog/business-types/) that a person can start to earn money. Among them, starting an online store has been one of the most popular options to date due to the rise of the [computer](https://www.statista.com/statistics/610271/worldwide-personal-computers-installed-base/), [smartphone](https://www.statista.com/statistics/271405/global-mobile-data-traffic-forecast/), and [internet accessibility](https://www.internetworldstats.com/stats.htm) across the globe. In this article, I will help you learn about two of the most popular [e-commerce platforms](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/) to date: [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and Amazon. I will write about what are the differences between the two e-commerce companies based on seven things: expertise, experience, scalability, [SEO-friendliness](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/), mobile-friendliness, security, and support. Now, before that, if you are interested in starting an ecommerce business, watch the video below on strategies that you can use to start your own: ## How to Choose an Online Shopping Platform Before comparing which e-commerce website you should sign up for your future online business, I will give you tips on how to choose one. Do take note that you have to choose between all the available platforms wisely as it can be your most common tool when it comes to your business as it can help you execute your business strategy and plans for it to become successful. The first thing your e-commerce website should have support for is how it will cope with the pace of how your business will grow. The service should be able to keep your site loading as fast as possible while the number of your visitors increase. Aside from that, you should also take note of the plan you choose in the e-commerce website for you to build and maintain it. This event means that over time, while you keep updating the contents of your store, the cost-per-benefit ratio is constant. When you want to update your website, [the platform you choose](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) should also have a feature for you to create and manage ways for you to inform your past, present, and future visitors. Doing this will help you sort out shipping problems to customer inquiries. Finally, you need to choose the right platform that is flexible enough for you to sell what your business wants to provide. Whether you are selling a service or you are selling a product, you can create pages such as customer feedback, order list, and delivery forms. Relevant: [Also read how to set up your ecommerce business from scratch](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) ## What is Shopify ![](/images/posts/inline/e29dc391-shopify.png) [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) first started through Tobie Lütke in 2004. He created software to launch Snowdevil, an online snowboard store. Two years later, he and his founding team made the same software public in 2006.  Since then, more than one million who signed up for this service in around 175 countries have earned a total of $155 billion. You can depend on more than 5,000 of their employees and at least 780 experts in their network when you sign up for their service too. ## What is Amazon ![](/images/posts/inline/31b5ee4e-amazon.png) Known as one of the biggest online markets worldwide, Amazon contains at least 119 million live products as of April 2019, with more than 150 million users browsing every minute. With this massive inventory, they are known as the largest retailer with a $232.9 billion in revenue in 2018. Aside from that, they made sure to stay alive due to their ‘customer obsession’ principle with the support of their added products and services such as Amazon Echo and Alexa. If you were to pick Amazon as your e-commerce partner, you could be a part of the other 1.7 million sellers that earned at least $118 billion in sales in 2018 in total. ## Shopify vs. Amazon After learning the numbers between these e-commerce platforms, let’s dive right into what makes each one different from each other in terms of the following: ### Expertise and experience As an e-commerce partner, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) wants to be the one-stop service for anyone who wants to start their online business from scratch. From creating your [business website](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) and blog to making forms for filling out orders, they have modules to start and update your online presence. Meanwhile, Amazon’s strength is its ability to add more products to its already massive marketplace. Since they are one of the most popular online retailers, they aim for lower prices and product purchases. ### Scalability Whether you want to make your clothing brand or publish digital books, [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) can give you accounts for your staff, an online store, a blog, manual order creation, print shipping labels, their point-of-sale (POS) application, and third-party POS. Aside from that, you can also provide discount codes, gift cards, and mailing options depending on which plan you opt from [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) too. Meanwhile, you can add different types of media, including images, videos, and even a [3D model of your product](https://help.shopify.com/en/partners/resources/creating-media/3d-models/creating-3d-models), to help entice customers to buy from your listings. This freedom to produce your business’ content also lets you have complete control of your business as you can dictate which products to take down to how often your items will appear on your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) website. You can also opt for [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus, a custom-design solution for companies who are looking for a specific design based on their business strategy. [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Lite, on the other hand, can let you sell your items on Facebook or a blog for a subscription fee. If you are planning to sell to international customers through [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), you can also adjust your product pages to display the cost of your products and services in the customer’s local currency. Meanwhile, signing with Amazon for your business can help you access a third-party seller community. You can get deals and options for shipping and fulfillment as well. Signing up for Amazon can also give you access to their sizable day-to-day traffic and repeat business while saving effort in marketing at the same time. With that, you can get profit from selling and advertising. However, you cannot sell a service on Amazon as they allow only physical items on sale, with [restrictions](https://sell.amazon.com/sell.html#product-categories) depending on the category your future product will fall under it. Amazon also offers you the option for customers to display your product prices in the local currency of your customers automatically. Aside from that, you have the freedom to post product pictures to help the customer learn more about it. There are a lot of hurdles in maintaining your seller visibility on this platform. Some of these include competition with other sellers and keeping track of sale fees. They also allow you to reprice your products and clear out old inventory automatically. ### SEO-friendliness As [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) gives you full control of your future business website, you are responsible for applying an SEO strategy onto it from the start. You gain access to a range of applications from their application store that can assist you with this. Aside from that, you can update the website however you want with their in-built editor during your subscription. This feature also includes making your pages in different languages too. Meanwhile, you can rank high in future search engine results if you were to set-up with Amazon as your e-commerce partner. However, you are only given fewer options when it comes to layout and design options. At the bare minimum, you can edit what you want to write for your store’s product description and features. Your reply to customer questions can be applied with an [SEO strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/) too. This feature is at the expense that you would have to reply to customer inquiries within 24 hours. They added this measure to remind you that you have to continually engage with your future customers to increase your seller rank while increasing your visibility within Amazon. ### Mobile-friendliness Due to [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) policy of letting you take control of the website you got under their subscription, they let you host your site on a cloud network. This setup gives you a decreased risk against your website crashing during peak hours. Also, if you choose one of the millions of themes available on their Theme Store for your business, you can be assured that it can be viewed on mobile as well. This advantage means that customers on mobile devices can access your website, store, and blog with ease. Even if you are only limited to Amazon’s designs and layouts, this disadvantage is replaced by the fact that you can still be searched on mobile devices.  As they established their [cloud products](https://aws.amazon.com/products/), you can be reassured that all your customer and product data is available to you twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.  ### Security According to [Merchant Maverick](https://www.merchantmaverick.com/what-is-shopify-and-how-does-shopify-work/), [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) is compliant with Level 1 Payment Card Industry Data Security (PCI DSS). Your website, shop, and blog under your subscription with them also comes with a free 128-bit shared SSL certificate. You can also avail of their site-wide encryption feature if you are interested. With the help of Hackerone, they can keep your site protected from attacks from all angles. Meanwhile, [TechBoomers](https://techboomers.com/t/is-amazon-safe) claim that shopping on Amazon is safe for customers. They said that any customer that sends their sensitive information during checkout is transmitted securely within their network. The company also made it a rule that they and existing users on the website are not allowed to access any financial information outside of the online retailer’s marketplace. ### Support Once you sign up with [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/), you can learn how its features work through its [E-Commerce University](https://community.shopify.com/c/Shopify-Discussion/Welcome-to-Ecommerce-University/td-p/48636). It is a complete suite filled with articles, how-to guides, and training resources to equip you with the knowledge to make use of the platform to your advantage. Aside from that, you can contact their in-house support team any time of the day or any day throughout the week if you have problems from paying your next monthly subscription to customer complaints. When you become a seller on Amazon, on the other hand, you can gain knowledge by browsing their tutorials and coaching. Aside from that, they also have the Seller’s FAQ and Seller’s Forums, where you can interact with fellow subscription holders and learn from fellow businessmen. If you are planning to partner with them to sell in European countries, you can get support for this through one of their many account specialists to set up a viable channel to expand your customer network. ## Plans and Pricing **[Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) has six different subscription plans available:**  1. Basic 2. Shopify 3. Advanced 4. Shopify Plus 5. Shopify Lite Aside from these subscription plans, you can try out their system for 90 days for free before opting for any of their plans. ### 1\. Basic  As of the moment, this plan is priced at $29 per month. You can create an e-commerce website, online store, and blog with this plan. This plan allows you to post as many products for sale as you wish and access to sell any of them on other online marketplaces and social media. You can also get access to manual order creation, manage discount codes, and recover any abandoned carts. Aside from your account, you can add two staff accounts when getting this feature. For shipping, you can get up to a 64% discount and create shipping labels for every customer order. They will charge you a rate of 2.9% with 30 cents more for every online credit card purchase. For in-person, the rate is only 2.7%, while [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) gets 2% of every purchase done by any other payment provider. You are also given access to the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS application, where you can use it to manage the number of purchases done in your physical store. It also includes support for you to use any other third-party POS applications if those fit your business strategy better. ### 2\. Shopify With this plan, you can get all the features of the Basic [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) plan. Aside from that, you can get access to professional reports to learn how many visitors you have to how many items were purchased per day. They also increased the number of staff accounts that you can make from 2 to 5 under this plan. The shipping discount rate is increased to 72% from 64% in the first plan while you can get USPS Priority Mail Cubic pricing at the same time. Online purchases through [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) have a cost of 2.6%, while in-person purchases using this method is now at 2.5%. Other payment providers will now cost you 1% for this plan too. Aside from the POS application, you can also manage shifts, have multiple POS pins, up to five store locations, and hardware support. You can get all these options for $79 per month. ### 3\. Advanced  This final paid subscription at [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) costs $299 per month. In this plan, you get all the possible features [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) can provide. Aside from the features from the previous plan, you gain access to learning how much shipping is from third-party applications or your account. You can also create up to fifteen staff accounts to manage your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) website, store, and blog too. Shipping costs are the highest in this plan. It has a cap of up to 74%. Also, any purchase made by credit card will be charged with a rate of 2.4%. Meanwhile, all other payment methods will only get a rate of 0.5%. Finally, you can add up to eight store locations for this subscription account. ### 4\. Shopify Plus This plan is [suggested for](https://www.shopify.ca/plus/contact) companies who are dealing with a lot of transactions daily. It will be priced depending on your annual revenue volume, country, and other information regarding your business. It comes with the following [features](https://help.shopify.com/en/manual/intro-to-shopify/pricing-plans/shopify-plus): 1. Specialized [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) applications designed for businesses with high-growth merchants. 2. Enables you to create a customized checkout for your own business needs. 3. Better API integration due to added API calls. 4. Becoming a member of their Merchant Success Program. 5. Your launch engineer, a dedicated employee of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) who can assist you in setting your online business on this platform from third-party integrations to collaborations with designers and developers. 6. You can create as many staff accounts to gain access to your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) platform. 7. Allowance of nine expansion stores. 8. Make use of beta programs that aim to glance at customers’ picks and influence your products’ roadmap. 9. Becoming a member of the [Shopify Plus Partner Program](https://www.shopify.ca/plus/partners). 10. Learn through the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus Academy to boost your company’s growth. 11. Becoming a member of [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Plus Community on Facebook to talk to fellow merchants. 12. Be able to try as much as up to 100 themes, keep seasonal versions of your selected theme, or test changes to a copy of your current published theme. 13. Be able to limit which of your staff can export reports or make use of applications you have integrated into your [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) website. 14. Create your password-protected wholesale store with its channel. ### 5\. Shopify Lite For just $9, you can take advantage of the following features [using this plan](https://www.shopify.com/lite): 1. Link your business’ Facebook page for [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) to sell items right from the website or application 2. Gain access to Messenger chat support where customers can buy items from them and keep track of their orders 3. Create a customized “Buy Button” where you can add to any website to increase conversion rates 4. Accept credit card payments even from your phone using the [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) POS application 5. Create, edit, delete, and send invoices to your customers while accepting their payments at the same time These features come with resources for you to learn how to keep your business running while using [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) Lite, talk to a [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) representative through email or live chat for any problems, and sync orders, products, and inventory through all internal channels. **Meanwhile, Amazon provides two different programs** 1. Individual 2. Professional Depending on what type fits within your budget, these plans start at $39.99 per month. ### 1\. Individual If you intend to sell items by yourself, Amazon will get 99 cents for each product purchase through its platform. Any referral fee is charged depending on the category each product falls under it. Opting for this platform will help you put your products up on Amazon for sale. You can opt-in for their [Fulfillment by Amazon](https://sell.amazon.com/fulfillment-by-amazon.html) program too.  Entering the optional program, however, would mean that you would have to package your inventory and hand them over to the nearest fulfillment center near your business operations. You would also have to pay a per-unit shipping and warehousing fee on every order that would require them to deliver the order to your customer. ### 2\. Professional Instead of getting a portion for each successful purchase, you would have to pay $39.99 per month for this plan. You would still have to pay referral percentages as well. You can also get the benefits that come with the Individual plan. Aside from that, you get these extended privileges: 1. Sell products across North America. 2. Let customers buy from you in bulk. 3. Make use of their in-house reporting tools. 4. Learn about shipping rates that fit your business strategy to selling your products. 5. Manage special promotions. 6. Be able to get placed on top in various product pages. ## Bottom line In this article, I showed you how to choose an e-commerce platform to be your partner in your business. Then, I used those concepts to compare [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and Amazon against one another. While [Shopify’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) strength is its flexibility towards you and your business needs when it comes to owning your brand and identity, Amazon is known for its shipping support and online visibility. Do take note that even if they both serve a purpose to increase your company’s growth, there are limitations that are present in this platform that may hinder its growth instead. Make sure to establish yourself as a brand and have a concrete business plan first before thinking about investing in either of these options. Thinking about how to expand your online business? Read the following articles for you to learn more: - [Top marketing books to read in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/) - [Review of screaming frog and how to use it](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-use-screaming-frog/) - [Top growth hacking stories you should know](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/) Did you like this article comparing [Shopify](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/shopify/) and Amazon next to each other? Comment down below on what topic I should write about next. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top 10 Marketing Books To Read And Improve Your Marketing Strategies Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-10-marketing-books-to-read/ Published: 2020-06-08 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: SEO TL;DR: His books have been translated into more than 35 languages, and have changed the way people perceive marketing. He has plenty of experience in the subjects, and he has founded two companies called Squidoo and Yoyodyne which was acquired by Yahoo. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. There is a vast number of books on any subject in the world, and the same applies to marketing.  It is impossible to be able to read all of them, but it can be quite important to be aware of which books are actually going to make a difference in the way you see things when it comes to marketing.  Whatever problem it is that you’re facing, whatever challenge, whatever idea you wish to bring to life – chances are people have tackled with similar experiences in the past.  Some of those people, expert marketers, wrote down and explained those experiences offering solutions and ways of thinking that might be helpful to you.  In times when the world is experiencing a break from everyday life because of COVID-19 and more and more people are staying and [working from home](https://alejandrorioja.com/freeeup-review/), I thought I would share some helpful suggestions with you. Use the time at home wisely, and read some of these books that can take your business or idea to the next level. ## 1\. **All Marketers Are Liars (The Power of Telling Authentic Stories in a Low-Trust World)** by Seth Godin Seth Godin is not merely just an author, he is an entrepreneur, speaker, and a teacher.  He has written 19 books so far, many of which are some of the best books on marketing and are his best-selling books.  His books have been translated into more than 35 languages, and have changed the way people perceive marketing.  He has plenty of experience in the subjects, and he has founded two companies called Squidoo and Yoyodyne which was acquired by Yahoo.  Seth also has the most popular marketing blog in the world where he has some amazing content.  Just Google “Seth” and you will immediately come to know how famous his blog is.  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1s52Qy0A45LUpMsQV8oE4grehSmLIv_fVQKBwC5E_hakDgS78WbnGPFOw9VTSNzeaeja75thyUhOlxnxICwIfvK_Re7Hy01J1bcssiNunIfqOlz0iJrl027TaIjZpW7Ukucrr_Wg) When it comes to the book itself, it shows the power of good marketing. All marketers tell a story, and depending on how good that story is, we all believe them.  We believe that buying those expensive brand shoes is better for our feet and better for our style, as opposed to some unknown regular shoes. We often believe that for a higher price we automatically get higher quality. And the more we believe it as consumers, the truer it becomes.  The book shows an amazing perspective of [framing a story](https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/) in the right way to make the audience respond to it. How painting a vivid image of what the consumers want to hear is sometimes more successful than hearing about benefits and features even.  Seth lets you in when the lying and storytelling are getting too much and doing more damage to the authenticity of your brand that good.  All in all, it is an amazing book for people that want to learn the ways of real marketing story-telling.  [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3dVjRuW) ## 2\. **Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products** by Nir Eyal with Ryan Hoover Nyr Eyal is a best-selling author, lecturer, and investor and this book is what he’s known for the most.  He also has another book which is also best-selling called “Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life”.  He has given lectures at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design.  His written works are often featured on Harvard Business Review, Psychology Today, TechCrunch, and The Atlantic. Nir Eyal has a huge knowledge of business, technology, and psychology which is the perfect combination to apply to marketing.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1rC7-OyUtUFL49wBT31SPOm-kmlB3wGff_Uzr_rDKi_bjMmKZSXWdGBTfv-PKs3Vwkkbs-sBsEE6o_IpizbdLDpFp6OMUZMs0e63j0spJ868qgYILIjMRUgokvMmZRsFWa5NfBj6) [](https://www.amazon.com/Hooked-How-Build-Habit-Forming-Products/dp/1591847788) The book itself is about the Hook Model consisting of four steps that are used for encouraging your customers to behave in a certain way in a very subtle way. The book is basically a guide that companies can use to produce better products. Many managers, marketers, start-ups can take out a lot from this book by understanding how their product will influence the customers’ behaviors. [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3dX6L0c) ## 3\. **Buyology: Truth and Lies About Why We Buy and the New Science of Desire** by Martin Lindstrom Martin Lindstrom founded his first advertising agency when he was 12 years old.  He really loved Legos when he was a child and he decided to turn his garden into a Legoland where he built different attractions and advertised it in the local marketing to invite people over.  That got the attention of Lego’s lawyers and that’s how he learned about the power and consequences of marketing.  He decided to open his own advertising agency that he later sold.  He has been thinking as a marketer  since he was just a little boy, and to this day he is one of the best experts on the subject.  Prominent journals like the Wall Street Journal, The Economist, The Washington Post, New York Times, Forbes, Harvard Business Review and many others are featuring his work. ![](/images/posts/inline/3c9b468b-pasted-image-0-13.png) When it comes to the book itself, Buyology is a masterpiece on subjects like how much are we aware of why we buy things, and what are we truly influenced by when making our decisions.  The author presents amazing findings that he gathered in three years with the help of 2000 volunteers from around the world and their perceptions of ads, logos, commercials, products, brands, etc.  The results defy many of the things that marketers long believed about the [source of our drive to purchase something.](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) The whole book is a sneak peek into the mind of the consumer and is extremely helpful and amusing to read. [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/37m9wFQ) ## 4\. **DOTCOM Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Growing Your Company Online with Sales Funnels** by Russell Brunson Russell Brunson started his first online company when he was wrestling at Boise State University.  In the year that followed after he graduated, he sold products and services from his basement that were worth a million dollars.  He is a serial entrepreneur who knows a few secrets when it comes to online business and sales funnels. He has vast experience in starting and scaling companies online, and he owns a few companies himself.  He co-founded one of the best sales funnels companies of today, ClickFunnels. [ClickFunnels is a complete marketing software](https://alejandrorioja.com/clickfunnels-review/) that helps companies grow their sales and revenues.  ![](/images/posts/inline/f07eccd9-pasted-image-0-14.png) [](http://softstudio.giacomosuriano.it/prodotto/free-book-dotcomsecrets) His book DotCom Secrets has been helpful to countless people around the world in starting and growing their online businesses.  The book will let you in on the real problems that companies face when they have trouble with [increasing traffic or conversion](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/). According to Russell’s experience, the problem is not in the traffic or the conversion but there is a bigger underlying problem that he will try to point out to you.  With all the newfound perspectives and information, you can finally take that leap and start your own online company, or grow your already existing one. [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/2MRpkr0) ## 5\. **Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen** by Donald Miller ![](/images/posts/inline/cc50638b-34460583._uy2400_ss2400_.jpg) Donald Miller is the CEO of StoryBrand and he works every year on helping 3000+ business leaders communicate their brand messages properly.  Other than being a CEO, he is also an author, public speaker, and essay writer.  He has written several books which together have been a part of the New York Times Bestsellers list for an entire year.  Furthermore, he is considered to be a quite informative speaker that sprinkles entertainment into his speeches. Apparently, his words and thoughts infected many leaders across the world who work for prominent companies like Intel, Pantene, Steelcase, and many more. The book itself uses seven universal elements of powerful stories to educate the readers on how to improve the ways in which they connect with their audience and improve their business. He provides a framework with seven storytelling parts that any company can use in their benefit.   By using this type of storytelling your customers will get a clear message of what you’re trying to communicate. It is a revolutionary framework that will make you [connect with the customers](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) using the insight of why people make purchases in the first place. This is an easy, informational read for anybody that is in touch with marketing, whether it is a big successful company or a potential startup that hasn’t been started yet. [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/2AiNF6t) ## 6\. **Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion** by Robert Cialdini Dr. Robert Cialdini has a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina and he has held Visiting Scholar Appointments in prestigious schools like the Graduate School of Business of Stanford University.  He is currently teaching at Arizona State University. He is also the CEO and President of Influence at work. His clients are big companies like Microsoft, Google, Coca-cola, Kodak, AAA, Harvard University, NATO, and many more.  His books are also highly valued in the community. He has been listed in New York Times Business Best Seller Lists, Fortune Magazine, 100 best business books of all times, and many other high-quality lists.  He is considered to be an expert in persuasion, compliance, and negotiation.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/unzkPjjD41toPCdBvR3r_VQcRYHIHm6kobaotX6RoRX2xiS4Q6hqVRQYHVl3vDyyCUgcgyAog1jG7JeAOfvDxF9LFsTqfbgyfN-0pKT_vFmK0TVgqONlKV4sTbPKnLzsSWPme_wB) [](http://salvadorbriggman.com/review-of-influence-the-psychology-of-persuasion/) The book is a classic one that every marketer should read. The main focus of the book is on one of the fields of expertise of Dr. Cialdini – persuasion.  He explains in the book what makes people say yes to some things and how to apply this knowledge for your own progress.  He uses his long experience and research supported by evidence to teach you six universal principles to become a skilled persuader.  He also teaches you the other side of the things, or how to protect yourself from being persuaded.  [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3f7tOWu) ## 7\. **Ogilvy on Advertising** by David Ogilvy ![](/images/posts/inline/2c3da5fe-images-4-.jpeg) David Ogilvy was an advertising tycoon who founded Ogilvy & Mather. This was advertising, marketing, and public relations agency. He is considered to be the “father of advertising”. He was very passionate about his work, so much so that he would terminate contracts when he lost confidence in the product.  One of the earliest clients he had was Rolls-Royce. He terminated that contract when he felt that the company was not up to speed with quality. The book is a classic in the world of advertising. Anybody who wants to be successful in the field of advertising should read this book at least once.  He was considered to be the father of advertising for a reason. The book offers advice that spans into a whole decade which can be good for modern advertisers to look into the beginnings of advertising.  Simple things such as how advertising that works, how to get to your clients, how to run an advertising agency, and much more are explained in this timeless classic.  [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3fgsNvq) ## 8\. **Getting Everything You Can Out of All You’ve Got** by Jay Abraham  ![](/images/posts/inline/05a0fc39-pasted-image-0-16.png) Jay Abraham is a proven business leader and a top executive coach in the USA.  He is the founder and CEO of The Abraham Group, Inc and throughout his career, he managed to solve extremely complex problems for highly underperforming companies thus fixing their problems. He has done that for more than 10,000 clients all over the world in different industries so far. He has experience with every type of business and every type of problem.  That is why his knowledge is quite vast when it comes to business in general. His book *Getting Everything you can out of all you’ve got* is a methodological book filled with tactics and secrets that Jay Abraham has developed over the years to tackle the issues for his clients.[](https://www.amazon.it/Getting-Everything-You-Can-YouVe/dp/0312284543) He gives clear and in-depth examples that come from his vast experience and points out how to find new [opportunities for your business](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/).  He focuses on things that are often overlooked: assets and opportunities that hadn’t been used to their full potential and he gives you the tools to see them. Reading this book will let you understand how to uncover these hidden treasures and use the tools he gives you to maximize your profits and success. [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/2XQDbnI) ## 9\. **The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing** by Al Ries and Jack Trout ![](/images/posts/inline/d1db536a-pasted-image-0-17.png) Al Ries is a top-notch strategist when it comes to branding and is a bestselling author.  He also came up with the concept of positioning. Back in 1972, he co-authored the three-part series of articles that declared the coming of the positioning era in advertising age magazine.  This concept made a revolution in terms of how people looked at marketing and advertising in general.  Since 1994, Al and his daughter Laura run the Ries & Ries consulting company that consults with Fortune 500 companies on branding and strategies connected to brands.  Jack Trout was also one of the founders and pioneers of the positioning theory, as well as the marketing warfare theory.  He was also an owner of a consulting firm called Trout & Partners before he passed away in 2017.[](https://www.amazon.in/22-Immutable-Laws-Marketing/dp/1861976100) The book is a product of Ries’ and Trout’s insight into the world of marketing.  They bring to life 22 tools and techniques that can be used in marketplaces all over the world.  They give their raw, not always successful wisdom and advice, and they explore campaigns in the area of marketing that were a success or failure giving their own ideas on how it would have been better. [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3dRTvu0) ## 10\. **Contagious: Why Things Catch On** by Jonah Berger ![](/images/posts/inline/5eb793b9-61qmvsg95kl.jpg) Johah Berger is a bestselling author and a professor at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.  He is a renowned expert on social influence, consumer behavior, word of mouth, how things catch on, and more.  He has published plenty of articles in prominent journals, and his work often appears in places like the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and The New York times He has written several books so far that have been extremely successful in the marketing world, and printed in over 35 counties around the globe. This book is closer to our time and explains why some things go viral. He dives into why some things become popular, why people talk good about some products, and bad about others. He further explains why rumors and [stories are viral](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-followers-on-tiktok/) easier, and how you can apply that to make your content go viral. He tells six basic principles that drive all sorts of attention that leads to contagion. He gives examples and provides actionable techniques for spreading information in a viral way.  A very good book for most recent times.  [Get this book on Amazon](https://amzn.to/30vtHQs) If you liked my suggestions about marketing books, you might be interested in learning some marketing tips from my blog:  - [Growth hacking stories you should learn from](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/)  - [Steps to choose the best YouTube channel name](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-growth-hacking-stories/)  - [Take your business to the next level with these great conversion tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/ways-to-improve-your-ecommerce-conversion-rate/)  Have you read any of these books? If you have a suggestion for a good marketing book, leave a comment and let me know. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Buzzstream Review: Features, Pros & Cons, And Pricing Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzstream-review/ Published: 2020-06-03 Updated: 2024-06-04 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents Content marketing is very important for any business. It is a way to [improve your brands’ reputation](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/) by building strong and lasting relationships with your visitors through relevant content.  Content marketing is one of the best ways to attract and convert customers. Companies realize the importance and benefit of this technique, and a lot of businesses have adopted and implemented it.  Another benefit of content marketing is that optimized content is always a good idea in terms of improving SEO. It is a very cost-effective way of bettering your business which is why more and more companies are adopting it.  Along with this, link building and influencer marketing can also be quite helpful for your business. The plenty of benefits that content marketing, link building, and influencer marketing offer combined with various digital [content marketing tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) help with build influencer relationships, drive word-of-mouth traffic, increase brand awareness, improve search performance, and do a lot more for businesses.  Today’s review is about [Buzzstream](https://www.buzzstream.com/)– a tool that offers great link building and digital PR tools to help businesses promote their products and services. I will explain what exactly Buzzstream is, how it works, the benefits and features it offers,  the pricing policies, and much more, but before that, you would like to check the BuzzStream tutorial here. ## What is Buzzstream?  ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Iq01GsskcN_GWhSJsCRSfv_quvIF5lNzOnABo0t5atz9o-yjRAPazpdboikKglM3TgBfzKihHR-MdLXAQ6g-Hb9jjJ601QKORuhhLlproNsil2yLulOg3PBJbzFRFN8CsL96cmI_) BuzzStream is basically a link building and digital PR tool that does research into influencers, manages your relationships, and conducts personalized outreach. So, if you need help with strategies like content marketing, influencer marketing, link building or public relations, BuzzStream can be the right tool for you.  Focusing on link building, the tool allows users to create and manage their link building campaigns and do it in one place.  Buzzstream team is constantly working and making efforts to better the tool and offer enhanced features to customers. ## What does Buzzstream do?  Buzzstream helps you get in touch with [influencers in your relevant niche](https://alejandrorioja.com/5-ways-to-become-a-trusted-influencer/), organize amazing outreach programs, personalize them, reach lots of prospects, schedule follow-ups for influencers, etc.  An interesting aspect is the reporting part of the tool where you can assess the performance of your campaign, and analyze what works or doesn’t work for you. The whole concept of the Buzzstream webpage is sectioned into four main parts of an outreach campaign.  ### Researching ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/pYGc4utReUjMc2LLoFIIr-U3FwC4zNCtCMQ7jX6vyIydmgbe7wUaGanFJWcPhhsnqYhwfXFvsqC2BC30u5shIwFBNT5t5ldMFFmbzwsUQnTrqgnXKArbMb_NKA5Db-l_ccvHVLE7) Buzzstream helps with one of the most time and effort consuming tasks in a link building campaign – finding relevant influencers in your niche.  Using the tool makes the process much easier for you.  Not only does the tool help you find influencers, but makes sure that they the relevant ones for your business..  Another option you have is to upload a list of URLs and the tool will provide you with the contact information of the prospects. ### Email Once you are done with  the research phase and have organized lists of prospects, the outreach emailing can be done immediately. You can either send the emails immediately or schedule a time and date in the future that you see fit. Automating follow-ups is another great option that Buzzstream offers.  You can play around with the prospects’ lists, you can segment it, filter it, etc. For example, you can only look for people that have over 10K followers on Twitter.  If you don’t feel like creating a new outreach email, you can choose a proven template from the Buzzstream library.  Additionally, you can further personalize the campaigns with notes and comments for every prospect that will make you form a better relationship. ### Managing You have an option to follow the status of the campaigns you have and see what the feedback from the prospects is.  In case where a huge team is working on the same platforms, you can also track each team members’ performance  and manage effectively.  ### Reporting ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/sxvM2NKJ5ishiIJhLX55YPZclwH_EcGRDCKhO4YhbRU7ZNr9LJAAsAyDqlfhhhDqQddAYpMnb9MIoJnmtCbzGQebZdZADOy_PxI1CMsOoa4r87QRrc5TykMH45eZK6CFXPHyB4c-) Analyzing results of any campaign is extremely important.  It might be one of the most important things, because seeing what worked and what didn’t work is an invaluable information for your future investments of time, energy, and money. With the clear reporting tools and performance metrics that Buzzstream provides, you can analyze how the campaign performed. It will also help you to get better results in the future.  This is a very useful feature as it helps improve and produce better results the next time around.  ## Advantages of Buzzstream  Buzzstream is an extremely helpful tool that many people use and recommend, and it is so popular  for a reason.  There are many advantages of Buzzstream and some of the most important ones are:  1. **Managing link building and outreach in one place**: automating these processes in one location is extremely effective and timesaving. The tool has a dashboard where you can manage these processes. The provider will find an email address, send follow-up emails, and monitor the rates of replying. This makes it easier for you to track everything in a single place. 2. **It has a user-friendly design**: the design is  easy on the eye and very clear for understanding which contributes to effortless navigation. Buzzstream features and updates, make the whole process of acquiring quality links quite easy. 3. **It saves you a lot of time**: the whole process of digging through the internet for proper sites, acquiring contact info, and working on launching a good campaign can be very time-consuming. This tool makes [link building and tracking](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) very easy, and fast. In addition, you can even get the Chrome extension which will allow you to send emails quickly via a pre-saved template. This  makes the outreach section easier and faster too.  4. **You can find information on influencers and bloggers quickly:** the platform works very well in this aspect too. After identifying prospects, the feature “BuzzMarker” will give you the correct e-mail address for the prospects where you send your pitch. You can install this feature on Google Chrome and it will either provide you with an email address or a contact form URL. This feature has some more advantages in this direction. 5. **You can build e-mail templates**: as I mentioned previously, you can create email templates and have them ready for  pitching. This is extremely time-saving, and even more so because it automatically fills the prospect’s important info. Using this type of template can really help you with tracking the campaign’s opening and response rates. 6. **Affordable and effective**: the basic plan is quite affordable for everyone, though they offer various other plans depending on business needs. It is also a great tool for a wide outreach and email blast.  7. **It makes the process of finding and evaluating prospects easier:** with a feature called “Discovery”, you can find and evaluate prospects all in one place. As an example, if you need to search for influential people in digital marketing, the platform will present to you a list of “influential” people in that area. The results you get can be shown based on different criteria like followers or others.  There are more advantages for sure, these are just the ones that I think are the most important.  ## Disadvantages of Buzzstream It is not realistic to say that Buzzstream doesn’t have any disadvantages. Even though it is a quite helpful tool to use, it can be improved and updated in some ways.  1. **Buzzstream platform tutorials**: I mentioned previously that has a user-friendly design and it’s relatively easy to work with and that’s true. However, there are times where if you miss one step in the process, you can get lost. You would need to spend some time figuring it out. It would be much easier if Buzzstream had a step-by-step tutorial on how to use all the features in the beginning.  2. **Can be slow**: according to many reviews out there of Buzzstream users, the platform can be a bit slow sometimes. This can be a bit of a problem sometimes. 3. **No pre-built campaign**: some of the competitors of Buzzstream offer pre-built campaigns where you can get everything on a specific campaign that you have in mind, from prospects to sequences. They should match the offers of their competitors. 4. **It gives 80% of prospects’ emails:** which is not bad at all. It’s just important to point out that it won’t give you 100% of the emails and contact for the prospects. This can still be highly useful and save you lots of time.  ## Pricing Plans  ![](/images/posts/inline/973575b1-screenshot-www.buzzstream.com-2020.06.03-13_08_13.png) BuzzStream has [several available plans](https://www.buzzstream.com/plans-pricing) that people and businesses can choose from.  ### Starter  This is the simplest and cheapest plan, made for those that are just starting and want to check out the tool.  It offers simple out of the box outreach with a maximum of two users. It costs $24 per month and it’s for one single user. Additionally, you can add another users for $24 each.  It can reach up to 1000 contacts, and it has the following features:  1. Contact info discovery 2. Open, click, & reply tracking 3. Email templates 4. Email scheduling & reminders 5. Automated followups 6. Publisher and influencer metrics 7. Twitter conversation tracking 8. Chrome extension 9. Email performance reports 10. Link monitoring (1,000 links) ### Group  The second pricing plan is focused on groups of people to up to 3 users.  The Group plan is the most popular choice of all the options, and it can reach 25,000 contacts.  It costs $99 per month and if you need more than 3 users to work with, you can get additional users for $33 each.  This plan offers you a complete outreach program that includes sharing data with your team, getting reports on projects, and much more. When it comes to features, other than all the previous ones mentioned Starter Plan, you get these additionally:  1. Bulk email send 2. Team template sharing 3. Project performance reporting 4. Link reporting 5. Customizable permissions 6. Phone and email support 7. Link monitoring (25,000 links) ### Professional  The third plan is the professional one and it is on a higher level. It offers advanced analytics, customizability to a high degree, API access, and support that is personalized.  It can reach 100,000 contacts.  It costs $299 per month and that is for 6 users, but if you need additional users they will cost you $50 each added to the price.  When it comes to features, it has all started and group features  plus the following:  1. Team performance reporting 2. Unlimited report customization 3. Integration via web services API 4. Dedicated account manager 5. Link monitoring (100,000 links) ### Custom  The most expensive and advanced plan that Buzzstream offers is the Custom Plan. It is a complete solution that can be totally customized to the needs of your business The starting price is at $999 per month and it’s for more than 15 users, reaching more than 300,000 contacts.  Other than all the previously mentioned plan features, it additionally has:  1. Implementation plan 2. Onboarding for new team members As you can see, Buzzstream thinks of all the different types of organizations and businesses that might be interested in the tool. As an even bigger plus, Buzzstream offers a free trial period on all the plans except the Custom one, where you can try the features for free and see how it goes.  Another option when it comes to payments is to pay 12 months in advance in which case you will get one month of free service. ## Data and data protection When working with confidential information you must always be careful. It is a thing you need to take into consideration even when it comes to new tools. According to Buzzstream, your data is very safe. It is backed up every day and kept in several locations.  The servers are located in data centers that are surveilled by closed-circuit television.  Moreover, the servers are guarded by onsite people 24/7 every day of the year.  In addition to all of these data protection features, more security is provided by military-grade pass card access and biometric finger scan units.  When you want to cancel your subscription, your data will be saved for 2 weeks in case you need it.  After these two weeks have passed, the data is completely wiped down to ensure highest security for everybody. ## Bottom line To sum it up, even though Buzzstream has a few disadvantages, it might be worth trying out.  The link building and outreach processes can be very time consuming and using a tool like Buzzstream can help you save time so that you can focus on other important aspects of your business.  Another great thing is the fact that there are several pricing plans that you can choose from according to your needs.  Even better, is the free trial option which will allow you to “get the feeling” on the platform, how it works, and the results that it may bring.  If in the end, Buzzstream doesn’t work for your needs, you can easily cancel your subscription and continue your search for another tool.  If you liked this post and you found it helpful, you might want to read my other reviews like:  - [Review of Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/) - [All you need to know about BigCommerce](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-review/) - [BuzzSumo – Is this the right tool for you?](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzsumo-review/) Comment below and let me know what other platforms or tools you would like me to review next. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Pick A Youtube Channel Name: A Step By Step Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-pick-a-youtube-channel-name/ Published: 2020-06-01 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: Do you think that a YouTube channel name is not important? Sometime last year, I was flitting around YouTube, for, well, not much. ## Table of contents Do you think that a YouTube channel name is not important? Well, think again.  Let me recount an instance.  Sometime last year, I was flitting around YouTube, for, well, not much. I was aimlessly searching until I came across this YouTube channel with an intriguing, and honestly quite funny, name.  Now, I was not a fan at first; the niche they are diving in, while it is not totally foreign to me, is not my specialty nor interest. But, over time, I grew fond of them.  I am now a subscriber to their channel for a little over a year, and will probably still be in the future. I am still not specifically interested in their niche, but I find myself searching about it sometimes.  I always click their new video releases at once, and I am proud to say that I have never missed an episode throughout my year of being a subscriber. Looking back and upon thinking about it, I might not have been able to discover and visit their channel if the name had been any different. You can say that the channel name was a significant influence on my choice of watching them.  Due to this, I will say that the YouTube channel name is essential, and may even be directly related and attributable to the subscribers and views you have.  Youtube has become a platform for personalities and celebrities, whether established veterans or new and upcoming stars. Posting videos online has also been a career for some, a career even the youngest of kids [make lucrative money](https://www.forbes.com/sites/maddieberg/2019/12/18/the-highest-paid-youtube-stars-of-2019-the-kids-are-killing-it/#191ae07e38cd) off of.   The most famous ones have millions of subscribers and earn thousands of dollars per month. Over the years, they have cultivated and imparted this sense of personal connectivity and relationships with their viewers, so it is no wonder how they blew up so fast like that. Well-known people inside of this space are dubbed as [Youtubers](https://www.businessinsider.com/most-popular-youtubers-with-most-subscribers-2018-2), and these people are composed mostly of vloggers, product reviewers, and video game personalities.  Their YouTube channel names are essentially brand names now, and who would want a lousy brand name? Of course, they will think of a catchy channel name! However, choosing a moniker for your YouTube channel can be as difficult as choosing one for your baby. There are some pointers you can follow, however, if you want a good YouTube channel name.  ## **Why is it important?** Remember my story? Well, your content is just one part of your branding.  Your channel name is how you are identified, called, and found inside this space. It appears on Youtube’s search results, your channel homepage, your videos, and in the comments section if you ever commented on a video.   So basically, it follows you wherever you go within Youtube. Now, you wouldn’t want to be called something uncool, would you?  That affects your “brand” negatively.  Also, your channel name is another [part of your brand](https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/). It is a significant and vital part and is a sort of primer of how viewers will understand and define what the channel is about.  Your name is their first look and first impression with the channel, its [content](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/), and the value it delivers. The name must represent your brand correctly.  ## **Channel name category**  Often, the first step in generating a channel name is to choose a channel name category, which generally falls into four types.  1. Name  2. Brand or Business 3. Explanatory or Descriptive  4. Categorical  Let me give some examples of some great YouTube channel names for each type.  ### **Name** ![](/images/posts/inline/e31e6706-screenshot-www.youtube.com-2020.06.01-19_57_50-5.png) If you are planning to be the face of your channel, then using your given name as your YouTube channel name works wonders. This works best, however, when you are already quite known even outside YouTube.  For example, Marie Forleo has a powerful personal brand, so when she created her YouTube channel, she simply named it as herself. That is one way to create a branding to make your name a brand in itself.  ### **Brand or business** ![https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/rRIIgwbEvo7Jqf-8FjQMfqoZf2TsX82fyAG5mnRbS8y9NamnDcYU\_77UaAYny0v7f3pIQEzME7wNCDfYKV\_aUTXJ441I71d7sBMtEyCxZ-GxEGxg0otlHRwIHAglLtJosBeFFDH5](/images/posts/inline/fa96b753-screenshot-www.youtube.com-2020.06.01-20_01_24.png) Naming your Youtube channel the same as your business is just like naming a channel with your given name. If your business brand is strong, then it would be wise to call your channel the same.  Not only will it be easy to recognize and search for, but if your business has positive news, values, reviews, and attributes to it, then the YouTube channel will carry the same prestige and power as well.  ### **Explanatory or descriptive** ![](/images/posts/inline/0a1f56da-screenshot-www.youtube.com-2020.06.01-20_47_29.png) A descriptive or explanatory name will show what your [channel is at once](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/). Viewers would not have to guess or expect anything else to be your content; it is literally in the name.  Take 5-Minute Crafts, for example. At a glance, you would know that these are videos about arts and crafts, which you can finish in five minutes.  Simple, right?  ### **Categorical**  ![](/images/posts/inline/8338f993-screenshot-www.youtube.com-2020.06.01-20_48_17.png) With Categorical names, you would know what their niche and target audience is. For example, with The Food Ranger, you would instantly know that this channel is for foodies or those who love food.  Now, there are variations, and names may fall between two categories or none at all. When starting, though, these four divisions are enough to pinpoint the category of your channel name.  ## **Generating a personal channel name**   ### **Understand what is in a username** Again, your username is how you are identified. Channel names are more than just being unique.  They must be creative, punchy, and easy to remember. Sometimes, a funny or intriguing nickname will be enough to get attention and makes your YouTube channel easy to find.   ### **Incorporate your personal traits** Learning how to [market yourself](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) is a part of a Youtube channel. How would you want to portray yourself on your channel and the site as a whole?  Finding the answer to this can bring you closer to your desired moniker.  ### **Think about your content**  The traits of the content you will be having will also make an impact on choosing a channel name. For instance, if your channel will focus on the reviews of children’s movies, then you may use words the same as “family-friendly,” “for kids,” etc.   ### **Don’t jam in too many words**  Putting too many words on your username will severely impact name recall. Your viewers would have a harder time searching for you.  This is a smaller problem if you have been subscribed to by the watcher, but they will most likely come up with shorter names to call you, anyway. So right off the bat, it is better to go shorter.  ### **Look for ways to be unique** ![https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/FE9CuS6G5VmI-tktvQ1E5KW1m1M45ID6OF41dgPFkidC2drY9pmqvDncbq7jxIjhKNkZt4FXHfwHQINg96VrwrclOMvbcLUgDP5OXNEsige6l\_eYTTYFi\_ROgm8xMJFwzfPmif8A](/images/posts/inline/efe2b8e9-screenshot-www.youtube.com-2020.06.01-20_49_27.png) See the photo above? They are two different channels with almost the same name.  Your name should stand out from others on YouTube. Look for ways to differentiate yourself.  ### **Use concatenations**  Concatenations are a great way to stand out from the bunch on YouTube. You can combine your name and initials with other words to create a unique identifier.  ![https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/AsBPmMaV63YBHx-NRrEHTkEGAYoCurA\_o9wMvtL2IyrLUJ14ytXqIl8toROIsLsqm2sNzT012wVKqfYB90cKyncCANA-dMM4jWFb6-s0rMTkGQhiCWpyq62rXqjatm5zYCpHpMJa](/images/posts/inline/63d50294-screenshot-www.youtube.com-2020.06.01-20_50_35.png) Check out this channel MKBHD. His name is a concatenation of his initials (MKB for how Marques Brownlee sounds) and HD for the fact that he only uploads videos in HD quality.  ## **Keep these in mind** 1. Avoid profanity and vulgarity. You want people to share your videos, and obscenity deters that. 2. Make it easy to spell. People need to be able to find your channel. 3. Make it easy to pronounce. You want to have a channel name that people can talk about without any difficulty in pronunciation.  4. Do not add too many numbers and strange symbols. One or a few is enough, but too many should not even be an option. 5. Take care of domain availability. Make sure that the name is available and would not be confused for another domain or name inside or outside the site.  Also Read: [How to Get 250,000+ Visits (My Best Growth Hacks)](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) ## **Youtube name generators** If you still need some help and inspiration for your channel name, then you can always turn to technology for assistance. Consider the use of Youtube name generators.  ### **Spinxo** ![https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/VFaZr1aJTkQh6yH346XJ0nTz0nU18TEg7uD460TvzBs9bZ7q7mixDZu3d9HTh3UMUKidYeYG-PokVnN6J2hQkL4Oe7NxknoLrav4HU8YAFVE1okbYccpyi2Ft4\_SBNXez4oNV71S](/images/posts/inline/057153b1-screenshot-www.spinxo.com-2020.06.01-20_51_53.png) A go-to tool for YouTube channel name ideas is Spinxo. Just enter the information the tool needs on the answer bars and let it do the work.  Spinxo gives you 30 unique channel names with just a click. If you did not like any of them, then click on “Spin Again” for another set of names.  ### **Name Generator** ![https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/CWlB94PnbOFYd\_Uedyz3wss83XuPbg4adNjhpbtfwuY8EPQRgGt8oz3AGnmKyn1wiq1RJT6iU-BdhvSoe33V\_8L9G3qf5wavkcW8QROJCp1QwsfiUq9zNreH0BOAwIndKQL-d18H](/images/posts/inline/acd4c915-screenshot-businessnamegenerator.com-2020.06.01-20_54_34.png) Another simple tool for generating names is through the use of Name Generator. Just put in the words you would like as a prefix and suffix, then click on the “Generate YouTube Names” button. You will have to click on the same button every time you want another suggestion because it doesn’t display more than one result at once.  ### **Kparser** ![https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/jZcM\_D4BQy41U5swfUwXx1JvmvFL422\_nk61hJnYpQSjeRdmAPrZqz0xlKaU3moFcJ1c-BlmQSUKIpWYLrhHjOnpPSho2Abkdbxi0fsAP6l9DoZxF8OV03SlO095MYwrNACMslXl](/images/posts/inline/7bf2e4dc-screenshot-kparser.com-2020.06.01-20_55_53.png) Kparser is a little bit more complex than the first two tools because it deals with SEO. If you are looking for SEO-optimized and specific names, though, then there is no other tool better than this one.  Just enter seed keywords related to your target niche, and click start to see a list of [SEO-related keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-keyword-clustering/). Now what you want to do is to mix and match the words, or put it in a YouTube name generator like Spinxo, for the suggestions you need.  And that is it! I hope you enjoyed this guide in creating your very own YouTube channel name.  Want more reviews and guides? Check out these articles!  - [Top tips on getting Tiktok followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-followers-on-tiktok/) - [Review of Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/) - [How can you unhide instagram likes](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-see-instagram-likes-count-hidden/) Did this guide help you choose a name for your YouTube channel? Let me know in the comments below. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Top 15 Tips To Get More Tiktok Followers And Create Viral Content Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-gain-followers-on-tiktok/ Published: 2020-05-27 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: SEO, Social Media Marketing TL;DR: This challenge is also seen in platforms like Tiktok as well. Like Youtube or Instagram, Tiktok can help you to be an online celebrity with hundreds or thousands of followers. **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Reaching millions of people is a challenge to Social Media lately. It requires lots of effort, creativity, and planning. This challenge is also seen in platforms like Tiktok as well. Like Youtube or [Instagram](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/), Tiktok can help you to be an online celebrity with hundreds or thousands of followers. But there is a catch to make this goal come to fruition; you must find a way to get ahead of the saturated competition. There are various strategies to use your following on TikTok, including creating excellent video clips with ideas and tips. In this article, I am going to show you the best ways to get more Tiktok followers. ## Tips to get more Tiktok followers ![](/images/posts/inline/40b5ac80-screenshot-www.tiktok.com-2020.05.27-21_42_14.png) Producing short music videos and publishing them online, demands hard work because you have to select the song that you will use, capture the footage smoothly and edit it before sharing the video on your TikTok profile. Through this process, there are multiple things that you can do to help you attract a vast audience. Without further ado, here are some of the easiest ways to reach more people to reach your videos: ### **1.** Fill out your profile comprehensively There are plenty of Tiktok users that try to make viral content, but they have partially completed profiles. You will not attract a massive audience if your Tiktok profile is not attractive enough. A pattern that is not filled out correctly will appear uninteresting and almost similar to a bot and will make others not want to watch or follow at all. Spend some energy and time to complete your profile, making your profile as enjoyable as you can have it be. Build your profile to grab attention and be genuine with quality and caliber content. Through filling your profile correctly, you will be able to invite people to visit it more often. Moreover, you would want to ensure that you have an attractive looking profile photo in place, including a custom username for it to appeal to potential followers! ### 2\. Follow and unfollow popular Tiktok users This a cost-efficient way to get the attention of Tiktok’s most influential users. Identify the most successful Musers in your particular niche and simply follow or unfollow them until they follow your profile back. It may seem weird how this strategy works because, after sufficient attempts from your favorite platform, members may look at your profile and like what you post. Commenting on Tiktok video stars can potentially increase the chances of being followed back, mainly if your comments are attention-grabbing and on point. Some of the people whose work you support may even be willing to share secrets and help you gain additional followers. ### 3\. Set up a charming profile Every small detail is essential when it comes to profile optimization. The profile username, picture, and personal information you provide can all leave a strong impact or impression on people who go to your profile. A very long username is challenging to remember and won’t help you to gain more recognition because people tend to forget long names. Choose a catchy and short username that would stand out and try to maintain the same usernames on different social media platforms. Let other users know what type of videos they would expect from you by mentioning that you like making videos on fitness, music videos, or vlogs that showcase you. It is essential to be as specific as you can. Your profile is your first step to establishing communication with new followers. This approach is necessary for you to encourage watchers to follow and start communicating with you. ### 4\. Engage with your followers As said in every social media platform, one of the most vital things to do when gaining fans and subscribers is to ensure that you engage with them regularly. Followers love being able to communicate with their favorite content creators. It makes you as a creator more attractive, genuine, and more attractive as a Tiktok user for people to subscribe to. That being laid out, ensure to stick your “brand” as well when speaking to your followers and remember that anything that is uploaded online will never be erased. Also Read [Top 13 Tips for Increasing Social Media Engagement Rate](https://alejandrorioja.com/social-media-engagement-rate/) ### 5\. Use the “for you” page. TikTok’s “For you” page is the central page where Tiktok users head to discover new and fresh content. This is a page that shows a constant stream of videos that Tiktok has selected to highlight for several reasons. I have yet to determine the factors that Tiktok considers highlighting videos. Still, eventually, by publishing regular and high-quality content, you could end up on the “For You” page. By being featured on this page, you get your content in front of more eyes and, consequently, more new followers. ### 6\. Do viral challenges Knowing that social media trends are significant, it enables you to see what content types are popular currently. Viral challenges such as the Kiki challenge, often involve dancing and singing to a pop song. Using hashtags with trends on your profile will make your videos visible to others. Moreover, a challenge may inspire you to explore specific topics in a genre of music even further and assist you in building an identifiable style that can expand your audience. #### Take advantage of hashtags! You would want to ensure that you are harnessing trending and hot hashtags when creating Tiktok content. If you use hashtags that most people don’t visit, you are not going to get plenty of views on your videos, and even much less potential followers. Using trending hashtags will get more eyes on your content. Try to learn to monitor and identify which hashtags are usually visiting at any given time. ### 7\. Create original content The most significant difficulty in Tiktok is the presence of users that are merely lip-syncing in their content and are copying the content of other viral uploaders. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as I detailed out previously when following trends. You must find the balance of finding your niche, [creating your original content](https://alejandrorioja.com/pillar-content/), and developing trendy themes in your videos. Creating and copying content from others may get you likes, but being innovative and forging a genuine identity will undoubtedly spice up your profile and make you stand out. ### 8\. Stay active on TikTok This may seem self-explanatory, but let me expound further. Your new followers would want to see growth and trajectory in your content. Persistence and consistency make your audience know that you continuously want to grow as an entertainer on the app. Give your audience a reason that stays and follow you. To gain a quick following, it is essential to post a video clip at least once a day. If posting once daily is too much for you, you can choose to display at specific times in the week. This way, you can form a regular fan base that continuously watches and checks up on your profile. If you post only 4 or 3, high quality, and unique videos in a week, that is completely fine too! Those four will get more views and likes and net more followers than five or seven low-quality videos. The key is to identify your priorities: quality vs. quantity. The key is to share high-quality content regularly and not merely unpredictably or occasionally. ### 9\. Post your videos on other social media platforms Do not limit your content on one social media account because if you do this, you will not be able to reach audiences on massive platforms such as Youtube, Facebook, or Instagram. [Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) alone boasts 2 billion active users each month, while the audience size on [Youtube](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) is not small at all. Managing accounts on several social media sites under the similar name is also an efficient way to develop your online reputation because people will remember the name they would see on one platform. Posting music and other kinds of videos on many social media accounts also means a massive amount of users will share them. You may already have a fair amount of followers on other platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, share your Tiktok content to those who can boost new viewers as well. It will get your Tiktok videos into more eyes and perhaps encourage viewers to follow you on those platforms as well. Fans may even share your Tiktok content, making it viral on different platforms! Relevant: [How to Get verified on Instagram](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) ### 10\. Collaborate with others Being a solo show does not always pay off, especially if you are a beginner. Recording a duet with a friend or any type of collab can have a positive impact on your fanbase size. It is significant to select the people you collaborate with carefully because creators already have plenty of followers who may not want to collab with you if you have fewer followers than them. Know your collaborator’s interests to gauge your chemistry and consistent branding. ### 11\. Utilize video editing apps All videos benefit from video editing. The TikTok app allows you to remove all unnecessary portions of your video clips, and it features a rich library of visual effects, but it lacks advanced video editing tools. If you aim to clone yourself, using apps like Triller is a much better choice since they offer a massive range of video editing options than what Tiktok offers. ### 12\. Be innovative and unique Try to find your voice. If you try to copy the content of others fully, you’ll never find your own distinctive identity. Moreover, video viewers can easily see if you genuinely enjoy what you make. Choose topics that you are genuinely passionate about, because if you are merely following trends, the content you produce may appear generic. Do not fret to think outside the box and try to challenge yourself. Exploring content challenges allows you to grow and would attract new followers as you have an eagerness to try new things. ### 13\. Keep things short and sweet Recording Tiktok videos that last longer than a minute is not possible. There is no time limit for your clips, so you can use your phone camera app to make videos that would be longer than 1 minute, but you should move it carefully. Producing music video shorts can be challenging, but it is also good to showcase your knack for creating an inspire followers to watch your work. ### 14\. Act like an entertainer Be Spontaneous! How can you expect others to have fun watching your videos if you don’t enjoy them yourself? Enjoy your time in front of your Camera! Put on a good show that you would enjoy filming. You can do this by adding some humor or merely enjoying the moment as you film. Even if there are no specific recipes to success on Tiktok, focus on your content and performance, and that will help you get more followers. ### 15\. Schedule your content Sharing fresh content at least twice per day will get you a considerable fanbase since it will boost your exposure to more audiences with a level of consistency. The identified magic posting times are between 11 am to 5 pm as your followers tend to use the app in these times. Know your audience and understand how frequently they use the app. This will assist you in creating a specific posting timeslot during parts of the day. ## All in all Unfortunately, gaining plenty of followers simply isn’t guaranteed to happen overnight. As in any social media site, it takes lots of hard work, excellent quality content, and on some rare occasions, a lucky break! By staying consistent and posting quality content regularly, you can start upping your audience count slowly but surely. When it comes to posting on social media, you have to be unique and provide high-quality content to your audience. Try to give off something new and fresh that will sweep your audience! The Tiktok app features an endless supply of video and music editing options that you can use to show your creativity. However, creating great videos will not be enough to attract a massive audience since you must also employ marketing skills for fanbase growth. Liked this article? Read more to see tips on optimization on other social media platforms: - [How to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) - [Review of Surfer SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/surfer-seo-review/) - [Earning Through Snapchat](https://flux.la/how-to-make-money-on-snapchat/) If you want to read more reviews and tips about a specific topic, let me know in the comments below. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Get Sitelinks On Google Search Results: A Step By Step Guide Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-sitelinks-on-google-search-results/ Published: 2020-05-21 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: Scripts, SEO TL;DR: As it is the widely used search engine on the internet, every website owner tries their best to make their pages at the top of their every Google search result page. ## Table of contents There has been no doubt that Google has an important role in our lives today. Especially for website owners like us. As it is the [widely used search engine](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/) on the internet, every website owner tries their best to make their pages at the top of their every Google search result page. While I was learning how to increase my visitor and click-through ratio, I learned that I could do more than just use it as a tool for researching. This video can explain some of the tips I have used to keep my website ranking high. Today, I will share with you the importance of getting your website’s sitelinks in Google search results.  I will discuss it in three parts: what are sitelinks, why do you need them, and my tips on how you can get them when someone searches your website on Google. ## What are Google sitelinks? These [links are defined](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sitelink) as a way for your users to be able to navigate your site. Aside from that, they added this feature as a time-saving feature for its users while informing them of website contents. An example of a Google sitelink is shown below. When I searched for “Amazon” on Google, it showed me the website and some of the links below it. ![Amazon's homepage site is shown, following two other sites within it, Amazon Prime and Wish List. ](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fYmSXoSPGXv9Qj7S1XTVDbU3TMaGWKaoO4e_DbBCBc7UpUDtU4iOUuw0FI_CKb8fJJlQYbYw9aF4CvtW5qfyjUJDNTURJDYDAylqxFcDlfoxXKcTHu_eAkv3BoKFSceDpnprVu86 "Search Results for Amazon ") If you noticed, aside from linking the main homepage of [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/), it also shows [Amazon Prime](https://www.amazon.com/gp/prime) and [Wish List](https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/ls?ref_=navm_ftr_wl). Apart from that, you can see each of their meta descriptions and a link to Amazon’s search results too. The next image features another form of sitelinks. Unlike the first example, this simply adds the links to any page within the featured website URL.  ![The other form of sitelinks only shows them as hyperlinks below the search result's meta description. ](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QfoES7kOeN2dSFP28r44AGG0YqyGNSpwP5bmyFvpfIUbGYn2RZPU8naFqJq9tVtDC9q2W-wqZBJizKP3ndGS4plDluYrpOw0QwsBVRAkihtNgF4a1aO7weNm2QDhjxB6WHyQiZ6X "Another form of sitelinks ") ## Why should you have Google sitelinks? There are several reasons as to why you should invest the time to add sitelinks to your entire website. First, it can increase your overall click-through rates. If your website appears as the first three in a search result, having sitelinks will help increase your chances of growing your organic traffic. Second, having sitelinks under your website as a search result is a sign that it is trustworthy. At best, since your website showed up higher in the search results, it will give you more screen real estate. Third, it will help everyone be aware of you, the website owner, and any product you are trying to sell. For example, you can let other people know of your first book in your “About” page once it becomes a sitelink. Fourth, it will help you gain traffic to pages that would help you get more leads and subscribers in the long run. They can help you bring more visitors by sharing your newest content around the internet, which in turn will help your trustworthiness. ## Steps on how to get Google to show sitelinks After learning the importance of why you need sitelinks, let me show you how to do this to your website. ### 1\. Opt for a unique business and website name The first step has something to do with what name you used for your website and business. You should opt for a name that only a few or no other company has adopted yet. For example, if you own a hair salon and you opted for “Dorothy’s Hair Salon” for your business and website name, this will compete against other business names that have “hair,” “salon,” or “hair salon” in it. Do take note that Google only lets the top search result show its backlinks, so ranking first in your [business name](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/) is your first step into getting more visitors into your website. ### 2\. Optimize the internal linking structure This next step involves two things that would give Google a hint of which pages to add as one of the backlinks in future search results. - **Create the most links to your most valuable site** For this step, choose which site you want to focus on and add it to every other site you have as a link. As an example, in my [best Articles](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) post, I created several mentions of other content creators that I have [worked with](https://alejandrorioja.com/press) in the past. Aside from that, I even added my post about [increasing your traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-increase-website-traffic/) to your website. Doing these things helped me not only keep my website on top of my search results but also let every one of my posts on my site become featured at the same time. Aside from that, make sure to avoid diverting most of your traffic to a single page. Doing this will not let Google display some of your sites, even if you have more than one as your content. - **Adjust your site’s anchor and alt text** After adding links to which sections you want Google to notice for its search results, the next step is to give each of them the right anchor and alt text. Anchor text is what the user sees if they hover over your link while alt text is what the user sees if an image or video in your site does not load properly. Thinking of a creative, unique anchor and alt text will convince the user to click it more. Aside from that, it lets Google know that the link is essential, and make it know to add it in future search results. ### 3\. Optimize your titles and meta descriptions Similar to the step where I explained about improving on your anchor and alt text, you should then proceed to start [creatively changing your titles and meta descriptions](https://alejandrorioja.com/white-hat-seo-techniques/). For titles, keep in mind the following: 1. Make sure it is relevant to the page’s content 2. Keep it at six to seven words 3. Make it different compared to your other sites and your competitor’s sites. For descriptions, follow these tips: 1. Make it relevant and clear on the site’s contents. 2. Keep it within 160 characters in total. 3. Write one before making it live to your new site. Doing these things will make your website more valuable for present and future visitors. These steps, in turn, will increase your chances of having sitelinks due to how relevant your content is. ### 4\. Optimize the website for better user experience This step will involve you diving into your website’s code once again and establishing a clear path throughout your site to Google and users at the same time. The first step is to get an [SEO audit](https://alejandrorioja.com/technical-seo-audit/). After that, make the necessary changes as I outlined in my [SEO guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/). Finally, use tools such as [Google Webmaster](https://www.google.com/webmasters/) to monitor when you need to update your website again or not. Aside from that, you should also focus on cleaning your website’s navigation menu. Two ways to do this include keeping it a 3-level hierarchical structure and replicating this structure to the list. Then, add pages you want Google to add in your sitelink to your website’s sidebar. Doing this will not only avoid clutter in your main navigation but also alert Google of which sites they can promote on their search results at the same time. Finally, add a table of contents with links pointing to different sections on your sites with long-form posts. Doing this will help Google be able to navigate through it quickly while making it a candidate as a sitelink. Relevant: [Also read how to optimize your website for better speed](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-optimize-your-website-speed/) ### 5\. Submit XML sitemap to Google This final step has to do with creating an XML for your entire website. Doing this will help Google and other search engines index it for future search results. To create a sitemap, check if your website has a sitemap.xml file. Doing this involves going to a browser window and entering “http://www.yourwebsite.com/sitemap.xml.” If it displays a 404 error, that means you would have to look for a plugin or software that can help generate a basic one for you while following Google’s guidelines. If there is one, update it at least once a month while keeping in mind the following tips: 1. Include the pages that have high-quality content and can bring organic traffic to your website 2. Exclude pages with duplicate content such as archive pages, tag pages, and author pages 3. Exclude pages that have no to little content in them such as error pages and redirecting pages Then, follow the steps [here](https://support.google.com/webmasters/answer/34592?hl=en) to submit your site’s XML to Google. ## Summing up! In this article, I showed you one of the many ways to rank up by introducing sitelinks to your website’s Google search results. All in all, it takes constant effort from updating your sitemap to adding definitive meta descriptions to your posts. Also, this strategy can bring you lots of organic clicks and future subscribers to your website at the same time. It will also ensure that past visitors can see that you have added new content too. Did this article help convince you to add this strategy for your website’s growth? Here are a few more articles you can read as a supplement: - [Your SEO guide for 2020](https://flux.la/seo/)  - [Tips to get featured on Forbes, TechCrunch, Mashable Inc](https://flux.la/get-featured-forbes-techcrunch-mashable-inc/) - [Comparison of Wix vs. Squarespace](https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/) Have you tried any or all of the tips shown above? Comment below on how it improved your website’s visibility! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Become A Freelancer? A Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-a-freelancer/ Published: 2020-05-19 Updated: 2024-05-24 Tags: Business, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.*  Freelancing has been around for some time now, and with the advancement of the internet and the technologies, it can be fairly easy to start with it.  Now, amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, more and more people are reconsidering their job choices and looking into freelancing.  But even before that, the trend of people switching from 9 to 5 work schedules and the traditional models of a working week has been on the rise. If done right, freelancing can be the freedom ticket you need to travel and explore the world while at the same time getting a steady income to support yourself. How cool does it sound? ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/K-CfdmaWCPidpY6_o7PLeFwppAJf09hYqfp1qmIXyKTDgnHS2fXmMmK36gyzQSfGzDe6B8Kgjf56UkCzRGioVjvdEK-CmVwXMNwrTEH6zoF49wZQQ9PuHhgERdZkjPczvoPWMsAM) I personally have some experience from both sides of freelancing, and I think it’s the future of working.  In this article, I will briefly mention the history of freelancing, explain what is freelancing, discuss the pros and cons, and give you tips on how you can become a freelancer from home.  ## Beginnings of Freelancing  The word “[freelance](https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/freelance-origin-meaning)” dates back to the early 1800s when it was first used referring to medieval mercenaries who fought for whoever paid them the most.  The first written evidence of the word is in Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Ivanhoe. In the novel, a feudal lord refers to the paid army as “Free Lances”. The word and practice took root fast, and broader meanings were applied to it as time passed by. It was for example used for politicians that didn’t have a political affiliation nowadays known as independent.  Additionally, the word was used for people that did any type of work on their own terms with no permanent employer.   This meaning sticks perfectly around in current times as well.  ## What is freelancing? Freelancing refers to working for different clients without committing to a single employer. It is basically a contract-based profession where a person uses their education, skills, and experience to offer services to different clients.  Usually, freelancing is done remotely from home. This is of course not always the case and depends on the type of freelancing services that you’re offering and essentially the preferences of the client.  Many people think that freelance by default means working from home. That is not true. You can work a regular job remotely too. The fact that you’re freelancing doesn’t automatically mean that it’s working from home.  The reason why a huge portion of freelancing jobs are also done from home is that usually, the services can be delivered through the internet.  For example, content writing, [graphic design](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/), social media management, any type of digital ads or content creation, etc can be done remotely very easily.  Whereas if you’re a photographer freelancer, you would be mainly working outside home, logically.  Relevant: [Read about the top Fiverr gigs of 2020 here](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-fiverr-gigs/) ## Pros and Cons of Freelancing  Like everything else, freelancing has its own pros and cons. If you are considering starting a freelancing career, it might be good to first learn the advantages and disadvantages of this type of work.  ### Pros 1. You call the shots  2. You have flexible working hours 3. You can select the clients you want to work with 4. You can work on any preferred location for remote working 5. You are not limited in your earnings 6. You don’t have to commute to work 7. You can choose different projects that make you happy 8. You don’t have office policies and evaluations  9. You don’t have a dress code 10. You are in charge of all the aspects of your working  11. You can take breaks whenever you want to 12. You can try something different, something you’re passionate about  13. You can work while traveling ### Cons 1. You can feel isolated 2. Sometimes it’s not easy to find new gigs 3. You don’t have a regular, steady paycheck  4. Working with multiple clients can be overwhelming  5. You answer to multiple clients  6. The time you take off is not paid (vacations, maternity leave, etc) 7. You have no company health benefits  8. If you are sick, you don’t have income 9. It can be hard to motivate yourself and push yourself  10. You need to make your own deadlines and schedules 11. You can feel like you lack structure or social contact 12. You have to be in charge of all the aspects of your business There is no right or wrong decision when it comes to freelancing. It can even be your side gig, if you are looking to make some extra money.  The best thing you can do when making your decision is to point out the most important benefits that you want from your job and see in which category they fit. ## How to Become a Freelancer? If you took into consideration all the pros and cons of freelancing and you want to pursue a freelancing career, here is a step-by-step guide on how to achieve that.  ### 1\. Find the right platform  Even though there are a lot of legit companies that offer freelancing gigs nowadays, if you are just starting out with freelancing you’d want to choose a platform that will be the “middle man”.  These platforms are making it much easier to get connected with potential clients and build up a rating that can help you out with experience and good reviews.  In the end, that will raise your prices, and clients will be willing to pay more to have work done by you. [![](/images/posts/inline/6c130a5a-screenshot-freeup.net-2020.05.19-22_30_08.png)](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/freeeup) There are a few platforms out there where you can start your freelancing career: 1. **Fiverr-** is the largest marketplace with a lot of active freelancing jobs that you can fairly easily get. All you have to do is create an account, choose what you want/can do, and that’s basically it. If you are interested in a full Fiverr review, click [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/).  2. **Freelancer.com**– This platform is one of the first sites of this kind on the internet. The first thing you have to do is create an account, and point out your skill sets so they can match you with the right types of gigs.  3. **UpWork-** if you want a more professional marketplace, UpWork is for you. You can find different types of gigs, and plenty of business clients that are sometimes looking for long-term relationships with freelancers. Not all the people that apply for creating an account are getting one due to the high number of freelancers applying. 4. **[Freeup](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/freeeup)–** is the hardest platform to get into. It is made to only accept the most professional and experienced freelancers. In fact, they claim that they only accept the top 1% of all applicants. This makes the platform very high-quality, with extremely fair prices. You should first build up your ratings and experience on other platforms before trying to get into Freeeup. For a full review on the site, click [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/freeeup-review/).  5. **99Designs-** if you are into design, then this platform is specifically for you. There, people are designing everything from logos and product packaging, to t-shirts and app designs.  ### 2\. Pick the right category/categories On any of the before mentioned platforms or any other that you might find out there, the possibilities for work are divided into categories.  In general, there is work for many different careers and fields of work.  However, some categories are more present than others.  Some of the most developed freelance categories are: 1. Computer and IT 2. [Digital Marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com/digital-marketing/) and Social Media Marketing 3. Project Management 4. Content writing, editing, proofreading  5. Software Development  6. Tech support 7. Accounting and Finance 8. Administrative 9. Data Entry  10. Virtual Assistance  11. HR and Recruiting 12. Analyst 13. Graphic Design When you are choosing what categories you want to get gigs in, be honest.  You can’t lie because when you get new clients and they see you can’t perform the tasks, your overall reputation will suffer. If you want to start in a new category, make sure that you always point out that you are a beginner and charge the smallest rates until you build up experience.  ### 3\. Find the right rates  We all want to be paid fairly according to our efforts and experience.  However, sometimes on freelancing platforms, you literally have to start from the bottom until you build up a good rating and become a trusted freelancer.  This also applies to trying out new types of tasks that are outside of your area of expertise.  As I previously mentioned, freelancing doesn’t have to be the only type of work you do. In the beginning, you can start doing a few projects on the side and see how it goes. If you see that it works for you and you make enough money to live off freelancing, then you can decide to do it full-time.  Whatever you decide it’s okay, but I strongly advise against adding extremely high rates to overcompensate for quitting your job.  ### 4\. Pay Taxes  When you’re working freelance, you have to make sure that you are doing it legally.  You’re not working in a company where they take care of the taxes instead of you.  Here, you have to do it yourself.  It doesn’t matter from which country you’re freelancing, paying taxes is a must everywhere.  The best thing you can do is get informed with the correct institutions in your country to learn how exactly you can pay taxes since the regulations vary all over the world.  The same thing applies to insurance, and retirement plans especially if you are doing freelance full-time.  ### 5\. Build long-term relationships Once you get started with freelance, most of the platforms offer lowered fees and other amenities when you are creating long-term relationships with clients.  That means that you will pay less for fees and your earnings will be higher with those clients.  Also, it is quite nice when you already know that you get along with a certain client and that both of you are satisfied with your relationship.  It gives a better sense of stability and comfort, making you motivated to be the best version of yourself over and over again.  ### 6\. Aim higher Once you get comfortable with the whole freelancing dynamic, don’t be afraid to aim higher.  You think you deserve a higher rate? Ask for it.  You don’t like a certain client? Look for another one.  That’s one of the best advantages of freelancing in my opinion- the freedom to work and coexist with people that you find comfortable.  Another one is that through freelancing, you make interesting and important collaborations with people from all around the world.  Those contacts can help you out in the future, and many times, that’s how cool startups get born.  ## Summing up! Freelancing has both positive and negative sides to it exactly like any other regular job.  The only thing that is on you to decide is which things you prefer over which.  Do you want more freedom in your projects more than you need stability? Do you prefer to have paid health insurance and paid leave more than you want to travel?  The answers to these questions will vary a lot depending on each person.  That is why I encourage you to think it through and the best solution is to always try a few freelance projects or even freelance part-time to see how it goes.  Maybe once you start doing it you will realize that it’s the right thing for you or vice versa.  Enjoyed this post? Read other helpful guides and reviews here:: Leave a comment and let me know what else you want to know about freelancing.  - [How to create a great logo for your WordPress site?](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/) - [How to remove/edit WooCommerce checkout fields](https://alejandrorioja.com/edit-remove-woocomerce-checkout-fields/)? - [How to delete or deactivate your facebook or messenger?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Wix Vs. Squarespace: What’s The Best Website Builder In The Market? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/wix-vs-squarespace/ Published: 2020-05-19 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Business, SEO TL;DR: Today, Wix stands as the biggest competitor in website creation, with over 160 million forums it moderates. Wix offers a sterling drag-and-drop site creator to start small websites. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. I think you’ll agree when I say [setting up a website](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) as an amateur is exhaustingly difficult! As an entrepreneur, I had to take the bold step to build my own website. This was intimidating, what with my little tech skills and non-existent coding skills. However, there’s a solution! Website builders like [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and Squarespace simplify this process, providing you with tools to set up your page quickly and hassle-free. [Business Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-set-up-a-professional-website-2014-4) affirms the importance of these forums when starting your company. If you are not familiar, a website builder is a tool (program, software, etc.) that helps you to create websites visually without writing code or having to download/install anything. This cuts out the middleman and helps you grow your online presence, accessible to both beginners and entrepreneurs. They are super versatile too, allowing you to build blogs, stores, and many other forums smoothly. In this article, I will [compare website builders](https://www.mybestwebsitebuilder.com/website-builder-comparison) that are currently known as the best on the market: [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and Squarespace. I’ll start with a brief background of each platform, and follow up with eight comparison points: ease of use, design flexibility, SEO-friendliness, blogging, stock photography libraries, add-ons, E-commerce & pricing, and support. Before getting into that, here’s a video showing you the steps to make a website in minutes: ## Wix at a glance ![](/images/posts/inline/66eff2b0-wix-website-builder.png) [Wix’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) popularity has escalated over the last few years, partly due to budget-busting marketing campaigns starring stars like Gal Gadot, better known as Wonder Woman, among others. Today, Wix stands as the biggest competitor in website creation, with over 160 million forums it moderates. Wix offers a sterling drag-and-drop site creator to start small websites. It provides 100s of free templates, plus its own web hosting as well as domain names (free and paid). The App Market further simplifies integrating extra features like photo galleries or E-commerce. ## Squarespace at a glance ![](/images/posts/inline/b1279f3c-squarespace-website-builder.png) Virtually no other site understands how to organize its product with such excellence. Every bit looks chic, fresh, and flawless. Their latest version 7 introduces some new features like a Cover Page Builder, G Suite, and Getty Images.  Squarespace has an impeccable blogging tool, with less abstract and faster online editing. They offer 100+ flexible templates that fully adapt to mobile devices. It enables live content editing, without shifting between the site manager and preview mode. [Also read how you can generate leads using OptinMonster here](https://alejandrorioja.com/optinmonster-review/) ## Top 6 benefits of using a website builder  A well planned out webpage has the power to transform dull pages into attractive ones. And if you’re an entrepreneur with limited time, you’ll want one that saves you time, while still guaranteeing potential customers that you’re legitimate and established. So instead of sitting and giving yourself a headache trying to understand coding, here are great reasons to invest in a good website builder: ### 1\. No programming or technical skills required Website builders are tailored explicitly with individuals with little to no technical skills in mind. They ship the drag-and-drop technology while presenting a user-friendly interface design.  Even the average person can write, upload pictures, and alter and move items with a simple click and drag feature without having to learn code and all the other technical stuff. ### 2\. You can Edit anywhere, anytime   The online management allows your web files to be posted and kept on the service provider’s server – not your computer. That way, you can access your account from as many devices as you want and make changes without worrying about losing the data. ### 3\. No need to be design savvy Creating a catchy, exciting website will challenge you to bring out your creative side with basic know-how in graphic design. But even if you’re confused with where to start or lack confidence in your design skills, you can easily select an expertly-designed template and take it from there.  Templates at their best, provide you with a starting point in creating your page. And they’re flexible, so you can adapt it to fit your style and needs best. While you are at it, do check out my guide on creating a great landing page [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/). ### 4\. Libraries and collections of applications All website builders come with a library of free apps and accessories that enhance your site’s functionality. Some are free, and others need to be purchased, while others are built into the website builder, and others are fully-integrated third-party tools.  You can incorporate pre-designed templates, pre-populated web pages, and ready-to-use applications and tools and have your website up and running in no time. ### 5\. They effortlessly help you maintain your website Routine website upkeep is a must if you want your website to flourish. Customers are always on the lookout for trendy things, so your site must provide them with the latest news, products, features, or info.  The drag-and-drop editor function with the clear, easy-to-use interface makes rearranging and updating your website is easy. ### 6\. Affordable Building a website with a website builder won’t drain your wallet. You’ll have plenty of free and paid plans to choose from.  Compared to hiring professional help, having your own website builder will be a lot more budget-friendly. As part of your subscription, they’ll throw in a domain (i.e., yourwebsitename.com), templates, a content management system, hosting, and even e-commerce features (depending on the plan). That sounds like a pretty good deal, right? ## Wix vs. Squarespace ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/2jmY0SkcWyfIS4jL7h-FMGsp9s4USqduTdTEJ-IEKse2ao0sGaLdjAdYo3RwaQiv34oWpdv5saxBM30A0tVOYnh_u2WeRfJl1Vc_JuMxFfQXxDYFlm9ILc8nzEwLJzuSye3p0Bte) So now that you have looked into the benefits of creating your own webpage, what do you do when both platforms offer fresh, sleek, and stylish templates? Let us dive into what makes each platform stand out. ### Ease of use ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/C2C0nlwJmSyCnhJYJjOjVL_pSRMpskGWaaQrjVqB1nr97tig91Faejat6Yz04GU310k8cb3zFGh_L8UTkE-QAd07kDLvZlqIdIZI-xiSphnsyBx-Udbd2n6XJAqkia94lBX-WHzP) To help you build a website without breaking a sweat, [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and Squarespace come with intuitive drag-and-drop visual page builders. This is topped off with the *Undo button* in case you mess up.  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) is like a blank canvas that affords creatives full reigns as you can drag and drop elements as you please. Your only limit is your imagination. Though perfect for experienced designers, it can be overwhelming for first-time rookies. To solve this problem, [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) made Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence), a smart tool that makes significant design decisions for you. It works as a virtual assistant, asking you several questions and then presenting you with a website. Squarespace, on the other hand, isn’t as much of a technical nightmare. It’s perfect for newbies who want professional-looking websites without the hassle of fixing errors like aligning margins. Exporting products is also straightforward enough in Squarespace, although digital goods can’t be shipped. Overall, the Squarespace interface is cleaner and decreases the scope for design errors when you’re creating the website. ### Image libraries and galleries ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/pKjtakmf0vqjxo5501CuwiWiQr_8PxKH_4pD2kokWI_Ap_8-vS6iXbfGbqPe5s3O1PmBxpGdWGCbmlxpmMvONwIgOe7-JsY-SQqYKz24kK_dswXu9w_-gJy4SZF_Dm1T-Nb1Gg2k) Uploading and manipulating images in both is straightforward, providing you with a good range of options, including a carousel, grid, and masonry formats, amongst others. [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) scores more highly in terms of where you can source your images from — you can connect it to a wide range of social media accounts and import content directly from them. It also allows you to apply a broader range of filters to your images and use an ‘auto cut out’ feature to remove backgrounds from pictures (this can be useful for headshots). Squarespace is better when it comes to optimizing images for use across multiple devices, allowing you to set a ‘focal point’ for your pictures. This ensures that the most critical part of your image is foregrounded whenever your image is automatically cropped for viewing on smaller screens. ### Templates, layout & design flexibility ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ZfxbIq_WSxUN2O1N8TzUdfNvqM94iKI_PQJmpw-FfSV9XxRNVJ57_LKx_IqvPvSdQ-5sLoflGaM53oNzW-8XTiP3P2qxJl0DDDk-hBU8S_vzt2hcjnp25sFH-0TnPc2_-vVkmwKP) I love variety, and so do you, which means  – for this section – we are picking one that offers more design and layout options. If you value quantity, then [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) takes the cup with over 500 highly-customizable templates to get you started, divided into 17 main categories. The downside, however, is, once you pick your template, you’re stuck with it. Switching to another one means building your site from scratch.  Squarespace templates outperform [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) in the aesthetics department. Instead of the traditional choose-a-template-then-customize approach, Squarespace takes a modular approach to web design, which is efficient in its own way, giving a framework-style method. On top of that, the content blocks are thoughtful and full-featured, allowing you to build your website block by block. Where [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) allows you to take a template and completely customize it, Squarespace will enable you to make big modular changes on a per-element basis. ### SEO-friendliness ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/4zDmt039Gc1E6zTF3vkpsAs24pLPNMq3RrxZfmkQlctRuFtWP4f0nmKPl_BIobrCpBsNpilU05lrVrfX8xDKK12F1zbwB10WEPB19sj04Fp1NoSO2T5kr4baXVYjKU_80NowRn4V) Which has better rankings, and how can you get google to notice you? Website owners and marketers invest a lot of time and money, generating consistent traffic because it is the lifeblood of any website. According to [Entrepreneur.com](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/348203), keeping your eye on SEO could make or break your success as a franchisor. If you fail to [rank highly in search engines](https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/), then your website becomes obsolete, regardless of how appealing or functional it is.  Both tools allow you to do the basics perfectly well, i.e., add headings, change page titles, edit page URLs, add meta descriptions, add alt text, and create 301 redirects. They allow you to display your blog posts in AMP format, which can speed up delivery in mobile search results (something that Google, with its ‘mobile-first’ approach to indexing content, approves of). However, Squarespace’s approach to SEO is quite bare, which means you’ll need to put in a bit more effort. Changing alt text (the text used to describe images to search engines and screen readers) is quite complicated — it’s doable, but a complex process is involved. But you’ll have to add tags and page descriptions manually. [Wix’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) weakness lies in its display on mobile versions, which is ‘absolute positioning’ rather than responsive. Google prefers the latter where the size adapts automatically to the device it’s being viewed on.  [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and Squarespace both have room for improvement when it comes to URL creation. Google likes URLs to be as ‘clean’ and as relevant as possible, but both platforms insert prefixes into your URLs in certain contexts (for example, with blog posts, Wix sticks ‘/posts/’ into your URL and Squarespace inserts ‘/blog/’ into it). It would be good to see more flexibility on this front. Whether you choose [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) or Squarespace, you get email marketing, Google Ads, Google Analytics, MailChimp integration, logo maker, Facebook ads, and social sharing out of the box. ## Blogging ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Q5TyJ_2XDRk113cFmRAfWKLcNGFQldS_UeKYs7oQHKB9rEPCPD4xG51n-wSvpTwaVwt67Ya4l4Juif-ImSUpsRNBt19mk_LBf-LvnuBdzEsF7ZGkOKI0rnrb0Z9BEBUbPc4xQ82l) I love blogging, so I’m constantly on the hunt for tools that make it easy to publish and manage content. What you’ll want is a platform that allows you to share your thoughts with the least hassle. Both tools help you create and edit your posts while looking at how the post appears to readers. With either service, you’ll have a fully functioning blog, with options to save drafts, schedule your posts for publishing, add categories, and generally just manage a blog. One big difference is that [Wix’s](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) blog post editor is a separate interface from the rest of your site. It’s not a bad post editor at all, but while you’re writing, you can’t get a clear idea of how your content will look to your users.  Squarespace comes with built-in blogging features, while the [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) blog depends on an app for the potent blog tool. On the back end, where you manage all of your posts, Squarespace has a search bar to help you find older posts faster. Wix doesn’t have one, and believe me, if you blog for long enough, you’ll need one! ### Integrations and add-ons ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pf0lUsNjsw6c1z8XJy6b3vTxUbKvMPcNuJKGNleK9MeEa7AEKZm5uNnIGXNIryEcBpvJA-4znqrM_R0hexR6RZiS1v6Q0qW4A74Kmw_lyThZ_xVXZneDVBsBHD7oDxJA91gvjpFN) A great website is more than just great aesthetics. Most website builders offer you the most basic functionality, but when you’ve exhausted these and need more power, you’ll need 3rd-party apps. If you want to enhance functionality to a Squarespace or [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) website, you’ll be pleased to learn that both platforms integrate with a range of other third-party services.  A great way to add functionality to a Squarespace site is to make use of Squarespace plugins — simple code snippets that you add to a Squarespace site to make it behave in ways that are not usually possible out of the box.  Installing these usually requires code insertion and a bit of configuration by the end-user. But setting them up isn’t too complicated. If you want to learn how other successful entrepreneurs are being hyper-productive with third-party add-ons, visit [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alejandrocremades/2019/02/11/if-you-want-to-be-awesome-at-emails-add-these-10-plugins-to-your-gmail-today/). The integration is smooth, almost seamless. Even when you use a third-party service, it still feels like you’re using Squarespace, and not jumping over to a different site. As a designer, I truly appreciate that.  It’s a user-friendly system that won’t take you long to get used to at all. And importantly, all official integrations include full support from the Squarespace team. With [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/), you make use of an app store — the Wix ‘App Market’ — to add functionality or integrate third-party services. While the Wix app store contains many add-ons (with a couple of hundreds available), there are some noticeable omissions in the integrations on offer. For example, there’s no official integration for Opentable. On the plus side, the Wix app store offers many other useful apps that add the kind of functionality provided by these services. Another way to integrate services, of course, is to use an HTML block and copy and paste code from third-party services into it. Both [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and Squarespace facilitate this. ### E-Commerce and pricing ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/nj8KLJwV-ClqCWPYdUf34KL1RIrakUkyBgYekFWmEFZKDUKXrrT1_HnLjhb_goUA57tg1eNG1eoLoJI6gz_-NnHKmeeTgj7TTerMSgKVF1ILCMvrv7vxpTAco-1PUHWujdV_kEDj) #### Wix Business & E-Commerce Plans
 Business BasicBusiness UnlimitedBusiness VIP
Free Domain (1yr)YesYesYes
BandwidthUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Storage20GB35GB50GB
Total Video Storage5 hours10 hoursUnlimited
SEO AppYesYesYes
Analytics AppYesYesYes
Priority SupportNoNoYes
Logo from Wix Logo MakerYesYesYes
Google Ads Vouchers300 USD300 USD300 USD
Google AnalyticsYesYesYes
#### Wix Website Plans
ComboUnlimitedProVIP 
Free Domain (1yr)YesYesYesYes
Bandwidth2GBUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Storage3GB10GB20GB20GB
Remove Wix AdsYesYesYesYes
Total Video Storage30 Minutes1 hour2 hours2 hours
SEO AppNoYesYesYes
Analytics AppNoYesYesYes
Priority SupportNoNoNoYes
#### Squarespace Plans
 PersonalBusinessBasic CommerceAdvanced Commerce
Free Domain (1yr)YesYesYesYes
Bandwidth & StorageUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Contributors2UnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Basic Website MetricsYesYesYesYes
24/7 SupportYesYesYesYes
GSuite and Pro GmailNoYesYesYes
Premium Integrations/BlocksNoYesYesYes
JS and CSS CustomizationNoYesYesYes
Advanced AnalyticsNoYesYesYes
Google Ads VouchersNo100 USD100 USD100 USD
Accept DonationsNoYesYesYes
E-Commerce FeaturesNoYesYesYes
Customer AccountsNoNoYesYes
Products on InstagramNoNoYesYes
Label PrintingNoNoYesYes
### Squarespace pricing There are four monthly Squarespace plans available: 1. Personal 2. Business 3. Basic Commerce 4. Advanced Commerce These plans work out cheaper if you pay on an annual basis. While deciding whether Squarespace is the right product for you, you’ll get a two-week free trial. (This can be extended if you don’t finish your project in time.)  The key differences between the Squarespace plans involve:  1. The number of contributors to your site you can have 2. Whether you can add custom CSS and scripts 3. Integrations with third-party apps 4. E-commerce features. As you might expect, you get more functionality in the above areas as you go up the pricing ladder. ### Wix pricing [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) fees vary by location — but generally, they have nine plans available. These are as follows: 1. Free 2. Combo 3. Unlimited 4. Pro  5. VIP 6. Business Basic 7. Business Unlimited 8. Business VIP 9. Enterprise You also get a free domain voucher with all the Wix paid-for plans, which gives you a year’s free domain registration. The main thing to note about the [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) pricing structure is that the ‘Business’ and ‘Enterprise’ plans all facilitate e-commerce; the others don’t.  The differences between the other plans generally revolve around how much file storage you get, the ability to host and sell video content from your site, and access to premium support.  If you need a website to accompany a birthday party, wedding, or garage sale, Wix’s free plan is wonderful; however, due to lack of features, it’s not the best option for professional users. A key e-commerce feature, abandoned cart recovery, is available at a considerably lower price point in Wix. You can recover abandoned carts on the cheapest [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) ECommerce plan. Squarespace, by contrast, restricts this functionality to its most expensive plan — the ‘Commerce Advanced’ offering. Squarespace doesn’t impose any limits on file storage; Wix does (the amount you get varies considerably by plan). ### They both have robust Ecommerce options [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) and Squarespace both offer these e-commerce features: 1. Accepting payments 2. Automatic tax calculation 3. Digital products 4. Import catalog 5. Mailing lists 6. Physical products 7. Appointment scheduling 8. Subscriptions 9. Selling via social media As you can see, the basic e-commerce features are all there on both platforms. They work in very similar ways since both services have separate interfaces for managing your store, your products, and so on. ### Support ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/mBFtvSSCEzFF7tb1OCxHrF4F0nXlWgC4TLSdHRZgmxiuik8qpfMYbJVmg1fufUx6EC0de4l0ezOVBctEIp4F89tXJMo06AjmSak4E_CPycvavDL78EoUzfk5-A_76C5MkE8lWJtN) When it comes to customer support, you can contact [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) by phone or email. Squarespace lets you get in touch via live chat or email. You generally have to search for a solution to your problem in the platform’s help material before you are given the option to contact the support team. If being able to speak to somebody is very important to you, then ultimately, [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) has a slight edge over Squarespace in the support department. You also get the option to pay more for premium support, which some users find helpful. ## Summing up! The choice between the two should depend on your design and coding skill level, what you seek from your website, and how important is optimization for you. I hope you’ve found our Squarespace vs. [Wix](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/wix/) comparison helpful — thank you for reading!  Leave a comment below if you have any feedback or thoughts on either product (or any queries I might be able to help with). Did this article help you plan out how to start creating your own website? I’ve got more to help you with the rest of the way: - [Which E-Commerce Platform to Pick](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) - [How to become a freelancer? A complete guide for beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-become-a-freelancer/) - [How to Make a Million Dollars With Your E-Commerce Store](https://alejandrorioja.com/create-million-dollar-ecommerce-business/) Want me to cover another e-commerce platform that has not been reviewed yet? Comment below to let me know! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Create An Awesome Logo For Your WordPress Site Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/create-an-awesome-logo-for-wordpress/ Published: 2020-05-18 Updated: 2024-05-26 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: There are three types of logo designs you can use: Over 70% of the logos you see every day are combination marks, made up of an icon, and either a word or a slogan. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. OK, you know why you need a logo, but your start-up budget doesn’t allow for hiring graphic and website designers, what do you do next?  Start by asking yourself: How do I design my logo and add it to my website? You do it by learning what types of logos there are, and what elements make up a logo, how to put them together so they work, and how to add it to your theme. And that’s what this article is going to tell you. ## Start by choosing your logo type ![](/images/posts/inline/00601634-caucasian-woman-creative-shoot_53876-12684.jpg) There are three types of logo designs you can use: ### Combination marks Over 70% of the logos you see every day are combination marks, made up of an icon, and either a word or a slogan. They are favored because they simultaneously advertise both company name and symbol, enforcing the connection of the two with the viewer; they are also suitable for logotype to use on your WordPress website. But, as it is a combined logo, designing one is a little more challenging and requires research into the method of [harmoniously bringing text and pictures together](https://alejandrorioja.com/designing-a-landing-page/). You can also avail the services of a [logo maker](https://www.adobe.com/express/create/logo) to do the job for you. ### Icon marks These types of logos are generally used by well-established and globally known brands. Think of Apple, Nike, and McDonald’s, you don’t always see the name but you know who the logo represents. Designing this style of logo is the domain of experienced designers that can capture the essence of a company’s brand by using just a single image—due to the reasons just mentioned they are not usually appropriate for a first-time logo. ### Wordmark IBM, Disney, eBay, all use wordmark logotypes. This technique uses uniquely designed fonts and colors to represent a brand without the need of an additional icon. It’s an excellent way of using a generic name and making it your own or for using an abbreviated version, for instance, International Business Machines (IBM) is quite memorable.  Relatable: [Read guidelines on designing a great Facebook cover photo](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/) ## Three elements you need to know when making a logo ### 1\. Logo size Your logo will be used in many places and in different sizes, and the simpler the design, the better it will scale for use throughout your branding campaigns.  But as we are talking about a logo for your website, clarity and speed of loading is most important. - **File format** Use a PNG format for a graphically designed logo as it compresses without affecting clarity, unlike a JPEG image. A PNG image will look better when used as a small header logo, and as it’s file is compressed, it will not slow down the loading time of your website.   - **Image pixels** WordPress processes your images in a way that prevents problems with pixel distortion by generating three additional sizes: Large, medium, and thumbnail. Your picture also remains in its original scale, providing you with multiple image options throughout your website. ### 2\. Color The rule of simplicity runs throughout the logo design process, and the color is of no exception. Color speaks without words and conveys [strong subliminal messages](https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/psychology-of-color) to the viewers. Choose ones that align with your business, your branding, and your target audience, also use no more than two colors to keep the design crisp and clean. Alternate shading is an effective method for minimizing colors. A white background provides versatility; however, you can use a dark background with a lightly colored logo just as effectively. ### 3\. Fonts When first choosing a font type, consider how effectively it will scale, as it needs to be eligible for all marketing types. Next, you can think about style. The same rules apply to the font as they did to color. It should align with your business, be attractive to your target market, and use no more than two fonts throughout your branding. Also think about abbreviation, as you might want to change your logo from a combination mark to a wordmark at a later stage. ## Making a logo and adding it to your WordPress theme You have three choices when making your logo. ### DIY To do this, you will need a basic level of logo design knowledge, a graphic editor like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Try to create multiple iterations before you settle on the logo you like, and show friends and family to make sure that the message of your brand is coming across through the logo. Also, bear in mind that you’ll need several file types (EPS for offline printing, PNG or SVG for your WordPress site, etc.). ### Hire a designer If you can afford to outsource at this stage, go for it! There are a number of websites—like [Fiverr](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/) and Upwork—that let you choose from a range of designers based on your budget and their skill level. Or, you can run a [design contest](https://www.designcrowd.com/) on a site like Dribble; you’d submit your design brief and deadline and have to wait a few days for the designs to pour in. If you find one you love, you can pay the designer who created it and make it yours. [Also read my review of one of the top freelance marketplace here](https://alejandrorioja.com/freeeup-review/) ### Use a logo design tool Online logo tools are the preferred choice of most new website owners, as you get the best of both worlds at an affordable price. Most of these platforms only take 5 minutes to use, and you come out with a logo that’s tailored to your preferences. [You can use a tool](https://www.tailorbrands.com/logo-maker) to take an idea you have and conjoin it with a database packed with different design techniques, colors, fonts, and styles, all proven to work in your marketplace, and design a logo that’s ready to upload onto your WordPress site within a couple of hours. ### How to add your logo to your WordPress theme Now the easy part. Some WordPress themes have slightly different back end setups and the process may vary a little from one to the next. But overall, it is straightforward to do that. If what I describe doesn’t work for your theme, go to [WordPress support](https://wordpress.com/support/site-logo/) to find out more. 1\. Log into your WordPress control panel. 2\. Open Appearances. 3\. Select theme options. 4\. Click on Upload a logo. 5\. Click “to select image” button 6\. Click save options. ### Wrapping up! Now you know what the steps to designing and uploading your logo are, your next job is to put them together in a way that represents the personality of your brand and resonates with your target audience. To help yourself gain a deeper understanding of what is going to work for your business, spend time researching brands within your niche and the social networks that your potential customers hang out on. These will help you narrow down your design choices by giving you a better understanding of what’s already working in your market. Learned from this article? Read other helpful guides here? - [Review of BigCommerce: Key features](https://alejandrorioja.com/bigcommerce-review/) - [How to deactivate your Facebook page?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/) - [Review of BuzzSumo: Pricing and pros & cons](https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzsumo-review/) You can also drop your feedback or recommendation in the comments below! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## BuzzSumo Review: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/buzzsumo-review/ Published: 2020-05-12 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Every day, various brands reach out to [top influencers](https://soinfluential.com/top-10-instagram-influencers-by-followers/) like Cristiano Ronaldo, the Kardashians, and David Beckham, to do affiliate marketing. While creating my website when I learned this, I thought, “How can I apply their strategy in making my own website as high-tier as my competitors?” Later, when I was catching up on SEO, I found a tool to help me gain leverage from a partnership between my brand and any influencer. That tool was [BuzzSumo](https://buzzsumo.com/) and since then I have been quite fond of it! Today, I’ll be discussing BuzzSumo’s features and functions and review its pros and cons for users. ## About BuzzSumo Brandwatch, a London-based social intelligence company, is the mastermind behind this software suite. Following their industry experience that helped [Whirlpool](https://www.whirlpool.com/), [Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/), and [Dell](https://www.dell.com/) grow, their product serves as the capstone for their users in order to [increase their productivity, workflow, and content success.](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) ![Screenshot taken from the BuzzSumo website that showcases the application.](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ZmZjOCcwdFXbdaY3v_2HI9ceXIzl4_dOgDUUsZEnmArRK3X2_c2mdtotiJdFbvO3wNZZ5fVvt-VprLGWRKwP5h06LQszvVZfNWl0JMvkQwhr3fnkKuEfXzXYCetSoYjaxNS9IA0v "Screens from BuzzSumo") ## Features This software suite includes four main elements that will help you learn the current trend in content across social platforms and search results.  It will help you keep track of your website’s growth and learn strategies from your competition at the same time. ### Discovery ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xr2I_yGUytQA6U1PFbYi0oycvVQ8q3V6MzaPuVDxNUSvsGq5hE-U7j7FEtW8_TDLZYNJXuZDwEyNZlN7p0CHwjRP1hu_gn2DOOaCLh7KrYCEMnof79RTmVF2Zt4mCX_nygmg_R69) This section on BuzzSumo it shows all the up-to-date content depending on which one of these three tabs you want to select: 1. Trends 2. Topics 3. Questions Let’s have a look at them individually. #### Trends This subcategory of Trends in BuzzSumo displays a list of different articles with their respective metrics such as its trending score and engagement.  ![](/images/posts/inline/43702030-pasted-image-0-11.png) As an example, we have one of the results that can appear on their platform. The labeled circles are what one can see for each result they show in this module. In order, they are: 1. Title of article 2. Author 3. Date Posted 4. Origin website 5. Number of shares to Facebook 6. Number of shares to Twitter 7. Number of shares to Pinterest 8. Number of shares to Reddit 9. Links that can be found within the article 10. Evergreen score 11. Total Engagement 12. Save to a BuzzSumo project 13. Share results Among these, there are two items that can only be found within this application: Evergreen score and Total Engagement.  Evergreen score, as [defined](https://help.buzzsumo.com/en/articles/1633271-buzzsumo-glossary-of-terms) by its developers, is the app’s own ranking score based on the number of shares on social media and backlinks it has received within one month after it is published. Total Engagement, on the other hand, specifies the amount of overall interaction between social sites from the specified article alone. #### Topics This part of the application focuses on [which keywords or topics are available](https://alejandrorioja.com/ahrefs-review/) amongst their massive database. Below is an example of how this section looks. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0_EedN0_h5vXLAOnUiqWcvCRtZf9XHW2RxGoiG3d9WCeTb1w8b5ekYz89s7xHGGAIMv6xb333Z3amRDw-r0ec8jqw9dgiDGlROunhqk5VcYGta-PQB3vPrCzjU-8US_db0GtojVW) This part informs the users about which topics using the entered [keyword produce the most traffic](https://alejandrorioja.com/whatsmyserp-review/). A result from this screen can look something like this: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/3zIRruXrLWQaQNwM-uXB15FRVm0n6iGhTH8ReXuWwf06X74DRCtcQN-QEUSfE8gJlnGKMuIbjJWe2KMz2JHsk92rceraoJqRFGH7IPOS6jrhWQFteBiUSSGsSf1KCCfGfJ1NSPha) These can be retrieved either from popular articles that talk about the keyword, critical questions asked in forums about the keyword, or related keywords people are searching. It consists of the following elements: 1. Phrase that contains the specified topic or keyword you entered earlier 2. Article that talks about the phrase 3. Question that is related to the phrase 4. Keywords that are linked to the phrase 5. Other ideas that BuzzSumo can recommend as content starters #### Questions ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/E194nbmIIIGekmGm3HKN4fkZnCFJuUbnyTQNQvBGO7KZ2_ajIM5X88I0MBdf_YADi8FLEdn4dkQ2h61REqqWIrG5Toub2cqR-ZecDsOZYk5QV_Cvf2XrxElq5fIjZ9Pd9axU5uhU) This part of the module lets you search by keyword or phrase to learn what are the most common questions about the topic. You can sort the results, as shown by the screen above, by time, country, site type, and sources. ### Research While the previous module in BuzzSumo asks you for data based on forum questions and articles about the topic, this section focuses on the effect of these articles on its social media audience. It is divided into three smaller modules: 1. Web 2. Facebook 3. Backlinks #### Web The left-most tab in this section, as shown in the picture below, can help you learn how popular a certain keyword is based on the number of clicks amassed by the articles regarding the keyword or topic. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/JceMjj4OYfokgl6s54fsUSIvn7-OiNmoZ7jUc4qXw2t1s-YDh85UjvCX8Dsmv106LYIBz-arYjZoYKi9w68sOiw_ReIm7yzpAtWArWdgW2kaESP6pO0RVgbXHQJFO3gSKGAGMy1j) After entering a word or phrase in its search box, it shows a chart of published articles and the times any of them were shared. Using a database of 5 million articles spanning domains and time, BuzzSumo can deliver up-to-date content that website owners, including you, can use for audience research. This result can also be filtered based on several filters, such as by country, language, and month. #### Facebook Meanwhile, this feature of this system filters only content that has been produced within Facebook. As shown by the sample screen below, its search results are similar to those of the Discover module. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fQZk1AaLsJdLT635HicJew9pbUuTrxajTrZ8oO050JSIe6mp6tp4aObHmPVY5fn09xoGefbHI3MMRL2vMycVpScmwQC2vRaIhn30W8EivSqyMVg78WuMLTl4984Pdlmida9k3pSO) This screen shows the frequency of visitor interactions, the times they have reacted, shared, and/or commented on the content. #### Backlinks This part of the module features a screen similar to the one shown below. Unlike the previous parts, this focuses on which links are used within each article. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/O07RGSs7rZXMpdSuyS3k_LhQ6sN-1jlNstifg5BpfqShKjHAuLWjt-lyshfx7gHrGekKKoTZDMJ7_sDMz1H4PPQyuzHQvAYGZUBirNtSpDJVr9qMYrDwml7GCGYQ5UVLzQWD4dwa) Aside from that, it also shows a detailed list of engagement with the audience based on their specific platform of choice (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or Reddit). Aside from that, you can also do the following: 1. Follow articles to monitor their growth 2. Be notified of any new links created on followed articles 3. Export the results as an Excel file ### Influencers In this section, I will feature BuzzSumo’s pool of information that introduces a [list of various influencers that you can utilize for your content.](https://alejandrorioja.com/contact-bloggers/) A common strategy when using this information, you can opt to create strong partnerships with them to increase both your visibility among your respective audiences. There are three parts that make up this module as a whole: 1. Twitter 2. Facebook 3. Authors #### Twitter In this tab, you can visit which influencer from this platform drives the most engagement over time by including the following metrics: 1. Page Authority – a score originally developed by Moz that predicts how well the page will rank on search engines. 2. Domain Authority – another Moz score that predicts how the webpage will rank on search engines. 3. Followers – the number of followers the influencer has. 4. Retweet Ratio – how much of the influencer’s tweets are retweets from other Twitter users. 5. Reply Ratio – how much of the influencer’s tweets are retweeted from other Twitter users. 6. Average Retweets – a number based on the influencer’s total number of retweets of their own content by Twitter users. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/lODdDjDOj0tTbOw0mvtuvDrQmFCid7z1SmcLxudekLDdMD-HLk8frX1R8nY5vDxk6F0DSBouiXBwoPt_C1tjw14df_EDtccLBocH8P_-lcLl863c0HlBEEPu0NKGoALlJrRWUhKA) As shown in the example screen above, you can have the option to search among their database of influencers based on whether their profile includes a certain keyword or whether their content contains that keyword. It also includes several filters, including by country and activity. #### Facebook ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/jBtRlrVJ1gLHuxhC7UIVSalfjSRGmf9I3J2cUM2z9PVrwwE8LsF7dHLy_N2yNVxusHO-AJyZrGS4B1aJql0n_wvml-etUWbjKdpuhO4mjrND_sZAEKRL4zi8NBwTIHYJkUNPabKo) Similar to how the Twitter part of this module works, this screen shows information about different influencers hailing from Facebook. You enter a phrase or keyword that appears either in their description or in their content and it will show you the results. You can also find how many likes they have garnered in their respective pages and filter depending on relevance and languages. Aside from that, you can also find out which of their content boosts their competitor’s content, which will be useful for backlinks for your future content. #### Authors ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/cVPnVAZ_Jad5ce7ZtbujHVAouZ0-FZcgTNATKF8mqE7jgCZc6Afgn--P6HgWxLsBakRWqdc7ALi4gN84XRd5nKC6fBbQqPQuwCSv04Fd7GJXH92p1rTW1QetXXfshPxXoJcfTVq8) The influencers featured here are those who produce the relevant articles throughout the Internet. If you try to look up, say “digital marketing,” on this screen, it will produce a list of people who have written about it before. You can also browse which specific article they have written and learn its evergreen score, engagement score across different platforms, in addition to the backlinks present in said content. BuzzSumo also includes filters to search for language, domains, and total engagement for every result. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/8Q3SaAUOSbTMFw5FeC1WPT5f5nKgwYTgOm6FjW6iyGYSGBEpP6x8lhS7OHiy3gBIU1GguDpimWeD95LJAiLOxwfM1a6BaHcNzoTCxEvEt5ZALH0C2fho4iuVGRkH2dtfxrsLruOm) ### Monitoring This feature tracks all saved search results gathered following the research.  This module in the software suite helps you track all the information you have saved during your use of this tool. There are three parts to this: keywords, authors & outlets, and backlinks. #### Keywords For this part, you can choose between a combination or brands and/or trending topics. You can simply navigate to the “Create New Alert,” enter the brand name to be followed and add in the email you want to receive the alerts from. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/gO6NqmtK5scz5dONCm8olmR7TovIVdqHp8NBRRhFm9trXU30hnWwxBpDY4DzMnbjB8dZV7-l2dSogb-KTBURnuq5uqYVT7H0AFBl4YnmSNoNymNEznI3w3KjZNq8zwqVlW0RAH7J) ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Uc7z2e0cZ7FQq5StjZm4hd3-5yPmqLptUCRBYv9zVVKXmr2emH7ZAQ91ITtaZpSnrUiSs6ZQYfV1UrX4vXooJFC8FiEMkpRFuqqrZBjWR7CggB38CgcK_T-cPuE_6-pyuLsCbYsF) #### Authors & Outlets This part of the module lets you keep alerts of whether a certain influencer or author has written about your brand, products, and/or articles. Creating one is as simple as making a keyword alert too. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2SaZX72El9y11kvkl3V_uyrEr0oTpusrjZCHUAuHcjs9-zxX_FPFSLzZxXULTQ1b9q5SZc1bbsv3QshpTOQkVNu7q0SLMaPrlrQVxdJMsVJP0FmR2mPf0AaJYbOvBlBiVQeWFUIu) #### Backlinks Finally, this module takes care of monitoring how well your website’s articles have engaged its users. Aside from that, you can also set up an alert to know which person browsing search results or social media content said something about your content as well. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/TsbkTIXWBdLh4-UkkuG8ztUxy4JRHyafrGugIlBYlQpEF8laMzXH46caxthgUGfnL7sTNys0QTrFr_g46Qf087vwrj3mXfRCUJVRxQUEfA8SBKIsbWSq4UiUlLBOjTG36ZKHnvCT) Aside from that, it includes the following information as well: 1. Engagement across Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Reddit 2. Number of links that were made with it 3. Evergreen score ## Pricing As mentioned earlier in this review, BuzzSumo is not available for free. Its plans range from $79 to $499+ per month, depending on which features you want in-store. If you’re going to try out its features, you can opt for a trial version first to get used to it for your growth strategy. If you are planning to get this product, do take note that their Pro plan does not include the Question Analyzer, Youtube Analyzer, Facebook Analyzer, Top Author Search, and Advanced Trending Filters. Getting these features would require you to start paying at least $140 to $499+ as you invest in a Plug, Large, or Enterprise plan. ## Strengths Looking back at it as a whole, I find it satisfying to learn that I can export any of my search results to an Excel file, filter my results by domain, and filter my results by language. Doing this can also help me think about localizing my growth strategy by targeting a particular country. Aside from that, I find it unique that there are notifications from different writers across several industries. Knowing this, I can think of a lot of possible backlinks to increase my visibility for my future content. [Also, read Ezoic review here and know how to increase your earnings per thousand visitors](https://alejandrorioja.com/ezoic-review/) ## Weaknesses So far, they have included data from several social pages, as I have discussed in the previous sections. It would be great to include information from websites such as LinkedIn or WordPress.  Doing this will help them get a better scope of the social media audience as well. Aside from that, it would be a tool that only website owners who actively apply SEO to their website’s growth strategy. Meaning, there is both a learning curve to actively use this tool for its true purpose. ## Wrapping Up! In summary, BuzzSumo is a software suite dedicated to helping direct yourself to which topics, influencers, and authors to follow. Aside from that, it provides a helpful hint based on their current data on how to write the next article that will bring the most engagement to your website and your visitors. Overall, this is a good product that can contribute to the success of many website owners. However, do keep in mind that you have to pay for this service for either monthly or yearly. Aside from that, you would have to learn how SEO works to make use of its features in the long run proactively. I do hope that my review of BuzzSumo helped you in your decision in investing in your website. Speaking of websites, learn more on how to make it grow by reading these articles: - [5 Must-Try Content Marketing Trends  in 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/must-try-content-marketing-trends/) -  [Tips to Make Money on Snapchat](https://flux.la/how-to-make-money-on-snapchat/) - [The Best-Paying Adsense Keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) Have you used BuzzSumo before? Share your experience in the comments below. --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How To Deactivate Or Delete Facebook And Messenger Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-deactivate-or-delete-facebook-and-messenger/ Published: 2020-05-12 Updated: 2024-05-25 Tags: SEO TL;DR: The social media site has recently revealed that up to 87 million Facebook users had their information improperly accessed. Cambridge Analytica was able to harvest data belonging to millions of Facebook users to determine and influence how they would vote during US President Donald Trump’s campaign. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. Have you ever wanted to leave Facebook for good? Temporarily perhaps? Here, I will teach you how to delete your Facebook and Messenger permanently or deactivate it for a few weeks. At a time when Facebook has been mishandling its user data, you may feel the need to delete your account on the social media site. The social media site has recently revealed that up to 87 million Facebook users had their information improperly accessed.  [Cambridge Analytica was able to harvest data belonging to millions of Facebook users](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/mar/17/the-cambridge-analytica-scandal-changed-the-world-but-it-didnt-change-facebook) to determine and influence how they would vote during US President Donald Trump’s campaign. Since then, the scandal has poorly affected Facebook’s stock price and trust with its users. ## Deactivating vs. Deleting Facebook allows its users to disable or delete their accounts. Before you can cancel your account, here are the differences and details you must know about deactivating and deleting: ### Deleting your account Deleting your Facebook account removes the account from public view, along with anything you have uploaded or posted to its servers. Since some data like messages are not stored in your account, your friends may still be able to access them. When you delete your Facebook account, you cannot retrieve access once it is removed on the social media site.  It is important to note that some posts and data just cannot be deleted entirely. #### Instructions to delete your Facebook Account ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cI7S4hgJlQ44Xu2t2HY-hhhQZcE7GcWj1p6RiFU1Loe9zr3rhjj2uoXXUMe9WksAs_yqbHRI_hPMCvsNaYEBvZSe3kXC4UZj96kp_lFNvLhJKNyJdr9W2-TXYPb2nYUQuLGd5VtN) 1. Login to your Facebook account with your username and password 2. Head to Facebook’s delete account page 3. Confirm that you want to delete your Facebook account and data To delete your Facebook account, you must submit a form to Facebook. Upon submission, you will acknowledge that Facebook is deleting your account for you, and you will not be able to retrieve or reactivate the account.  Before deleting your account, make sure to download your information from Facebook. According to Facebook, it would take up to 90 days from the start of the deletion process to delete all your posts, including status updates, photos, and other data stored in the backup systems. While Facebook removes your account information, it will be inaccessible to other people using the website.  If you are linked to Facebook apps, these will also be deleted permanently. [Also read how you can download Facebook videos here](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/) ### Deactivating your account Deactivating your Facebook account allows you to hide your posts, timeline, and profile from public view. You can reactivate your account whenever you prefer.  However, some content such as messages may still be [visible to friends](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/). When a Facebook account is deactivated: 1. Information, such as messages you have sent to friends, can still be visible. 2. No one else will see your profile. 3. Group or Page admins would still be able to see [your name with posts and comments](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/). 4. Your friends can still see your name in their friends’ list. Even if your account is deleted, you will only be visible to your friends and only from their own friend’s list. 5. Since most of the information is still public, you must only deactivate your Facebook account if it’s for a temporary break from the social media site or if you are uncertain. #### How to deactivate your Facebook account: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9-RkTrWdwKR5vFMUMMIRIF3pyUq0MiS4tLGeRCQRiK1Hz0XmV168SO6--IfoQjcz9ajdQjAzMM9QaCxiBzU8lMeLzUuSrOZkxINaa42QCMNF7ZzlDO-1wG2B2-emtGufRHicSq4c) 1\. Tap the ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/re4AmE895oZ5nhY-dlPwfr6zx-E_3AfnElBvmfaj4WfZKnRBUPxA5XwQZoyzn_WvMJz9FEd3DY0Gkd5xdmSZErd4Du5hdq9dPyG0FYrLTwEgEHrnmVYNbGr6kR6CpgIeptM3sgtu) at the top right of your Facebook page 2\. Click Settings then tap on Your Facebook Information at the left column 3\. Click on Deactivation and Deletion 4\. Select Deactivate Account, then click on Continue to Account Deactivation and follow featured instructions to confirm. You can still use Messenger with a deactivated Facebook account. Deactivating your Facebook account does not entirely delete it. Once you deactivate your account, Facebook saves your photos, information, and settings in case you choose to reactivate your account.  You will not lose your data; it is simply hidden. However, it is also possible to permanently delete your account with [no chance of recovery.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-avoid-facebook-jail/) You can still use Messenger and chat with friends, and your Facebook profile will always be accessible in your conversations in Messenger. Other people will also be able to search for you and send you messages too. ## Instructions to Deactivate Facebook Messenger Messenger can only be deactivated if you have also deactivated your Facebook account and here are the steps to do so: 1. Open Messenger 2. Tap on your profile picture at the top left corner 3. Click Privacy & Terms 4. Tap Deactivate Messenger 5. Enter your password and click Continue 6. Click Deactivate ## Can People Still See you if you Deactivate your Facebook account? People can search for you, but your profile will not show up in the search. Your timeline will not be seen, along with your list of “likes.”  Once you deactivate your account, that would happen immediately.  Likewise, if you delete your Facebook account, your account will permanently vanish. However, the full deletion will not happen for a few days because the social media site provides you some leeway.  If you log back in shortly right after deactivating, the account will be automatically reactivated. Otherwise, it would take 90 days for the full deletion of information from Facebook servers. Some data or information will still exist, but any personal identifiers shall vanish. Your account will become static. ## Will my Comments Vanish once I Deactivate Facebook? Your timeline posts will not be visible publicly, and your friends will not see them either. Your profile will disappear but not the comments you have made to others. ## How to Identify if a Person Deactivated their Facebook account If you would like to know why someone has been oddly quiet on Facebook, there are three possibilities to consider: First is they may simply be busy. Second is the possibility that they have blocked you. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xiMIqgyeI7hR5N8tGyl5733Ij9wYY4-cuzjNaghUiSZmNooMBQEKMRVubRuUUdKpu0t04pw_RuyPPqccObRJ-St9Ve-CBWO_H1sKc2p4hDhuAA7lZJIsoGHQtFb3O-onRpn19hbZ) But before discussing that, question if they have gotten rid of their entire account. With this, how would you know if someone blocked you or someone from your friends’ list deactivated Facebook account?  Head to a mutual friend’s profile and see if the person in question is there in the friends’ list. With finding yourself in that list, you were likely blocked. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/oiHVPJ-rCK6HNkUa68txvts29m5V_huf7xAjbPsoAvZnbSW4skDN36pDm17QXuN6NcJlRnQDW_n_2V1BngnpaTByNOpTMKCMmn7xMjA_eB_eanTgYqCPsVux6oys6BY8pXU25DQ7) You can check on Messenger, too; there could also be a technical issue. You cannot send a message if you have been blocked, the person’s profile picture will be replaced by any comments they have posted in your timeline. ## What Happens to Your Tagged Photos Upon Deactivation Since Facebook has saved your data for your prospective reactivation, tags in photos will still exist. However, these tags will be converted to plain text. No one will be able to link those photos as a profile. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tgu5uOEuLL11cGdf1LCQns5p9W_g3u_wMpGqVGJGz3tPm7C07dgYDrVs6EYbuTq7IL4D_v-65GuZHWxn79dE3G0OYd6iCf0lmAGD1pg40-l8mhZGab_dlFQiizf51XtgBtT-NhgM) Your profile will not be visible to anyone. The visibility of your account also applies to any other post you may be tagged in. Once you reactivate your Facebook account, the tags will resurface. This rule applies the same after deletion; tickets will become plain text.  If you decide to open a new account, the original tags will not automatically link to your name anymore. Consider the people with the same name as you. At the moment you have deleted your profile and decided to reactivate, you will need to ask your contacts to remove original tags and update them to your new profile. ## How to Reactivate your Facebook account If you would like to return to Facebook after deactivating your account, you can reactivate it anytime by logging in to Facebook or by using your account to log in somewhere else.  To reactivate your Facebook, you will need to access the mobile number or email you use to log in to complete reactivation. ## What’s Next? Ever since the [grilling in Capitol Hills](https://www.wired.com/story/mark-zuckerberg-endures-another-grilling-capitol-hill/), Facebook has come under controversy for allowing politicians’ presence in ads during a time when Twitter has decided to ban all [political advertising](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-advertising/). Zuckerberg continuously speaks out about Facebook’s determination to its policy to uphold encryption and free expression. His words in Utah came days later and said on Facebook’s recent earnings determine that his focus for the upcoming decade is not to be liked but simply understood. Learned a lot from this post? You can learn more about online reviews and hacks here: 1. [How to invite all your friends to like a page on Facebook](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) 2. [How to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) 3. [Get more Snapchat followers](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) Drop a comment below what hacks you would like to see next! --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## How to Edit/Remove Woocomerce Checkout Fields Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/edit-remove-woocomerce-checkout-fields/ Published: 2020-05-10 Updated: 2024-05-28 Tags: Scripts TL;DR: You won’t need to spend a ridiculous $49 to edit your fields. Here’s how you can do that for free. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. If you are regular reader of my site you will have noticed that I recently added [a Shop page](https://alejandrorioja.com/shop/) to my site to start selling some digital products. If you see the default checkout form that Woocomerce comes with, it has way too many fields which [hurts conversion rates](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/). ![](/images/posts/inline/c355210f-image.png) Today I’ll show you how to remove any unwanted fields. You won’t need to spend a ridiculous $49 to edit your fields. ![](/images/posts/inline/227685ac-image-2.png) Here’s how you can do that for free. ### 2 ways to edit your checkout - Using the Customizer on WordPress - Using a few lines of code if you need further customization ## Easily tweak your Woocomerce checkout form with Customize 1. Go to Appearance > Customize 2. Then go to Woocomerce > Checkout 3. Then select the fields to Hidden / Optional / Required ![](/images/posts/inline/2a777b2f-edit-woocomerce-checkout-form.png) If you need better granularity, you can use the following steps. ## Steps to edit Woocomerce checkout fields 1. Download and activate the [My Custom Functions](https://wordpress.org/plugins/my-custom-functions/) plugin (or alternatively edit the functions.php file on your Child Theme) 2. Once in the plugin (which you can find on Settings > PHP inserter) or in your *functions.php*, paste the code below and save changes. 3. Done! /\* WooCommerce: Remove Checkout Fields \*/ add\_filter( 'woocommerce\_checkout\_fields' , 'custom\_override\_checkout\_fields' ); function custom\_override\_checkout\_fields( $fields ) { unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); return $fields; } Note that the above code removes all fields, if you want to keep a few (for instance: First Name, Last Name, Email) simply delete the corresponding lines like I did here: ![](/images/posts/inline/4efe1967-custom-functions-woocomerce.png) That code is this one /\* WooCommerce: The Code Below Removes Checkout Fields \*/ add\_filter( 'woocommerce\_checkout\_fields' , 'custom\_override\_checkout\_fields' ); function custom\_override\_checkout\_fields( $fields ) { unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); unset($fields); return $fields; } Now your checkout should look a lot cleaner! ![](/images/posts/inline/9a625239-reduced-checkout-fields-woocomerce.png) ## Bottom line Hope you enjoyed this quick trip to customize your Woo-commerce checkout fields. Which other scripts you want me to share? Let me know in the comments! Are you a marketer? Here are [other scripts](https://alejandrorioja.com/scripts) you will enjoy: - [How to invite all your FB friends to like your page](https://www.alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) - [Scripts for Twitter growth](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Ezoic Review: Features & How To Use For Beginners Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/ezoic-review/ Published: 2020-04-14 Updated: 2024-05-31 Tags: Advertising (SEM), SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.*  You’re on the internet, browsing through the search engine for whatever content you’ve taken interest in lately. You open a few websites: some sites you read through the end, and other sites you click back without bothering to scroll down.  What could be the difference? Of course, it could simply be that the site did not offer the information you were looking for, but here’s a few more reasons that may also be true - The site looks messy and full of annoying ads. - The ads displayed are either too large and overbearing or sensitive and sketchy, or both. - The layout is all over the place, and you don’t know where to click.  Now let’s say you’ve just created a blog that you plan to monetize. There’s a lot of things you have to set up. In the world of online marketing, one of these is a reliable and competent ad-testing platform.  (While you’re at it, read about earning money online [here](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jrose/2018/04/24/make-money-online/#17a20d9c4954)?  Essentially, you need one that tells you: - Where to put your ads? - How to make the most money from your content by presenting you with specific advertisers to work with? - How to optimize your ad displays and make more money without cluttering your website design? When I started paying more attention to the look and feel of my site, within a month, I was earning more than I usually did once I monetized my site. Within two years, the rates kept rising. Here is where my experience with [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) comes in. Today, I will be sharing how [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) and its handy features have overall helped my site’s ad revenue, and how you can also increase your EPMV (earnings per thousand visitors). ## **What is Ezoic?** [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) is an ad-testing platform that lets you test ad placements and layouts of different types of ads from different ad networks on your website. Think of it as a win-win situation: it optimizes your revenue from your website’s advertisements by trying out different website layouts and positions, as well as improves user experience by presenting ad combinations that will most likely get the most engagement. Relevant: [Read my Facebook advertising guide for beginners here](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-advertising/) ## **How does Ezoic work?** ![](/images/posts/inline/b3aab98b-new-ezoic-logo.png) Here’s why you need to have a test ad platform: by taking into account all of the important variables, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) knows how to maximize your money by split testing many ad placements at a time because of the multiple ads on your page. By comparing all ads on one page at the same time, you see how much money that an entire visit makes! ![](/images/posts/inline/f2fcdd74-ezoic.png) Each unique visit makes money, because they usually have to click to another page. It’s the user visit that you need to maximize to get the most revenue. In a nutshell, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) uses machine learning algorithms to see which ads people will most likely click on by testing different ad placements, sizes and combinations. Over time, it stores information about your users, and uses this information to tailor ads that will appeal to each user. Ezoic offers mainly four types of ad placements: 1. Native ads – These are often used in social media feeds or in the recommended content of a website. They match the look and the feel of the format they appear in. 2. Banner ads – Image-based ads whose purpose is to get users to go from the current website to the advertiser’s website. 3. Link ads – Text-based ads displaying a list of topics that are related to your website’s content. 4. Sticky ads – Usually found on the sidebar or the in screen, these are fixed within the page and stay visible while the user scrolls up or down. Here’s what the ad options look like: As an automated testing tool, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) lets you see: 1. Each experiment (different combinations of website design and layout), the type of device it’s displayed on, and how much money it has made. 2. How long people browse your site and how many pages they click through in each visit to come up with a “performance metric.” Here’s what the reporting section looks like by using colors to represent layouts: [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) basically lets the statistics speak for themselves and will use the performance metrics to display the layout that tends to get the most engagement on your site and view more pages the most. [Also read about how to increase your adsense revenue here](https://alejandrorioja.com/adsense-revenue/) ### Will Ezoic make me money?  Yes.  Will it improve my revenue?  Yes! Think about it this way: many users stay away from websites crammed with random, sketchy advertisements. This makes the site get less engagement and less visits, and therefore less revenue. Because [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) partners with a lot of high-quality ad networks, you get ads on your website that are actually attractive to potential visitors. Your website is also arranged optimally so ad placements don’t bother the website content that the visitor actually wants to see. [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) promises an increase in ad revenue between 60% to 200%. I’ve noticed the drastic change of my site revenue over time, once [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) got used to the kind of visitors that my site gets. The revenue I get from each visit has steadily gone up in the span of a few years, mostly because the time on site has improved as well. I think the best part about all this is that I still get to maintain control on my own website. ## How to Make the Most out of Ezoic **1\. Ad Tester vs. Layout Tester** [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) gives you two different set ups: the Ad Tester or the Layout Tester. By choosing the Ad Tester, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) will only test ads instead of layouts or themes. If you want to retain how your website page design and control, you can choose where to put your ads. This will improve your ad revenue, but not much, because it limits the effects it will have on user experience. The Layout Tester is where you can get the best from [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/). Though you may have to relinquish some of the control on your website design, the automated, intelligent machine testing will test different types of ads, along with different layouts.  It can take a few days for [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) to store information and find better combinations based on visitors, so patience is important. **2.    Load your site up with more ad placeholders** This will really let [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) split test more combinations and come up with better results. Again, give it time. Extensive testing will take weeks up to a month. It will all depend on the user traffic on your website, so if you don’t have much yet, you’ll have to let it run a little longer. **3.    Make use of the Big Data Analytics feature.** You can pull data reports from the Big Data Analytics dashboard and closely review the revenue by changing the categories: by each page or post, by device, by traffic source, by UTM medium tracking, URLs, and by country. These detailed reports will tell you what kind of articles earn more. ### Advantages and Disadvantages Let’s talk about the pros and cons and [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) to see if it would be a great fit for you and your project.  **Pros**: ●    Mobile friendly. Ezoic tests with the type of device in mind (desktop, mobile and tablet) to find the combinations that will make the most money for you as well as make it the most appealing for visitors.  ●     You are still in control of your site. You can adjust the percentage of traffic that should go to your original site and the percentage that goes to [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/). These adjustments can vary depending on the type of device.  ●     [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) works with lots of ad networks (instead of say, just AdSense or Media.Net). Having more advertisers to choose from means the ads on your site will be of higher quality and higher pay. **Cons**: ●     There is no live chat support. This feature was replaced with a ticket system, and though the customer reps were still insightful and friendly, all responses were delayed.  ## Ezoic FAQs #### How do you get paid? [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) supports cheques, PayPal, or international bank transfers. Payments are received at the end of the month, and the minimum payout is $20. #### Why is my Google Analytics account required? [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) does have a few rules before letting you use its features. Your Analytics account has to show that your site gets 10,000 monthly visits before you can join. #### Is it free?  It’s free. There is no contract, and you can simply turn it off with one click. However, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) does have a premium version ($49/month) that can improve your revenue even more. #### Will Ezoic take a percentage off my revenue?  Good news! Instead of taking a percentage off your revenue, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) will get its revenue by simply displaying a small ad at the bottom of your site (if you want to remove that ad, you’ll have to get premium). #### Can I use Ezoic along with other ad networks (e.g. AdSense)? Yes. You will, however, have to install an add-on app into your [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) account.  The Mediation app will allow you to link your other existing ads [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) can include them in its testing. Mediation makes sure you get paid the most for every ad impression that your site gets by letting your ad network accounts compete against other ad partners that [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) has. ## Is Ezoic Worth Trying? Absolutely. Using the latest update of [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) has worked wonders. It may have gotten a lot more complicated, but that’s only because its upgrades have added a lot of helpful tools and addon apps to maximize the whole [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) experience. Compared to other ad platforms, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) provides more features that will surely increase your ad revenue within a certain time period. I get to enjoy all the benefits while maintaining control of the overall look and feel of my site design (this is really crucial to certain sites). ## How do I Use Ezoic? 1. Head over to their [main website](https://www.ezoic.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=g&utm_term=ezoic&utm_content=381284801193&utm_campaign=194679837&gclid=Cj0KCQiAkePyBRCEARIsAMy5ScvQvcN8cHeiIzwVtz56fwNQEN-rtHV64mwtHeXqfbUvS1NcyJkGvbsaAptYEALw_wcB) to create an account. You must have an AdSense account and proof of 10,000 monthly visits. 2. Integrate your site: [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) works with any platform. You can use CloudFlare to integrate Ezoic into your site, just so you can have a few safety measures. Ezoic is already partnered with CloudFlare, so that it makes it easier. 3. Set up Ad Testing 4. Replace all existing ad units on your site with a wrapped ad unit before creating new ad units. Make sure you create just enough so your website will not look too cluttered and random. [Follow this Youtube tutorial on wrapping ad units before Ad Testing Setup](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2VZR6--nWU). 5. Install the [Ezoic Chrome addon](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/ezoic-ad-tester/nbccjeeblefkmoohdiipbghgikopimnd?hl=en) for easier access. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/4Up1v-IKEOZeZ7yFo9jM67cbGBg7cWqHhlya88qmS5FglKPpqQT_FUkae2JSXduGhRz2NqXKW9bOQAH98SrtBvkudA-eTOaBhtFJCUQWiLTpKxiDXDtinxoymrOcQr32WgPRAYeV) Here is an in-depth tutorial on getting started with Ezoic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=No7ZglU1cDc ## Should I try Ezoic Premium? [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) Premium offers several plan options, with each plan having three tiers. For a fee, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) displays higher paying ads on your layout, thus getting you more profit. It’s not a total shot in the dark, however, because Ezoic actually tells you how much you’re earning from the premium ads. To be honest, using [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) for free has already done wonders for me. I don’t mind the logo on the bottom part of my site, either.  The thing with [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) Premium, however, is that you need to be eligible to get an invitation. You need to have a certain amount of engagement and ad revenue to qualify. Still, if you place a lot of value on how your site revenue adds to your income, then it’s worth investing on Premium. Here are a couple of pros and cons to help you decide:  **Pros:** - Credit card rewards - Still no revenue share - Profit from paid traffic **Cons:** - Can’t downgrade plan - Month/year commitment (depending on your plan) ## Bottom line Here’s what I’ve learned: you can have the best content on your site but receive little to no recognition. External factors matter. Because the digital world is so fast-paced, you need to learn the algorithm to make sure your content platform remains relevant. Ultimately, [Ezoic](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/ezoic/) is one efficient and powerful tool to help you stay afloat. The tips shared here will help you reap the benefits of online content providing. Let me know in the comments about your experience with Ezoic! Like this article? Explore more tips about online revenue platforms here: 1. [Top e-commerce platforms of 2020](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/) 2. [Best CPC keywords and Adsense Niches](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/)   3. [Best SEO tips for beginners](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## Top Search Engines in 2026 (and Why ChatGPT Search Just Made the List) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/top-search-engines/ Published: 2020-04-09 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: SEO, Search Engines TL;DR: Google: ~88%. Bing: ~4%. Yandex: ~2.5%. ChatGPT Search: ~1.8% (and growing). Baidu and Naver dominate their home regions (China, South Korea). For SEO operators in 2026, the practical game is Google + AI engines — everything else is a long-tail. ## Table of contents The search engine landscape changed more in 2024 than in the previous 15 years combined. Google still owns it — but ChatGPT Search hit measurable share for the first time, Perplexity matured into a real product, and AI Overviews fundamentally reshaped what "search" means. This is the 2026 operator-grade view of which engines actually matter and how to think about each. ## The 2026 global market share
Google
~88%
Bing
~4%
Yandex
~2.5%
ChatGPT Search
~1.8%
Baidu
~1.5%
DuckDuckGo + others
~2.2%
_Statcounter global, Q1 2026. Region-specific shares differ dramatically — see below._ For the first time since the 2000s, the global search market has a new entrant with measurable share. ChatGPT Search isn't a "search engine" in the Google sense (no ranked list of 10 blue links), but it's where commercial queries are increasingly routing. ## 1 · Google — still ~88% globally Google's worldwide dominance is essentially unchanged from 2010. What changed in 2024 is **what happens on the SERP**: - **AI Overviews are default** on ~60% of US informational queries. The classic "ten blue links" still exist below, but most user attention captures inside the AI Overview box. - **People Also Ask + Knowledge Panels + Featured Snippets** have continued expanding. - **Sponsored placements inside AI Overviews** started testing in late 2024 — Google's plan to capture the monetization upside of the AI-search shift. For SEO in 2026, the question isn't "how do I rank on Google" — it's "how do I get cited inside the AI Overview that Google now serves." The schema and structural patterns are different from classic SEO. ## 2 · Bing — ~4%, the underdog with AI Microsoft Bing has held ~4% global share for years. Two things make Bing matter in 2026 disproportionately to its share: - **Bing is the underlying index for ChatGPT Search.** When ChatGPT cites a URL, it found it via Bing. So Bing's index quality is now strategically important even for users who never use Bing.com directly. - **Bing Image Creator + Copilot** are the consumer interfaces; Bing search is the substrate. ## 3 · Yandex — dominant in Russia / CIS Yandex owns Russia and the CIS (~65% share within Russia). For most Western businesses, Yandex doesn't matter. For: - Businesses serving Russian-speaking markets - Companies in Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan - E-commerce targeting CIS region …it's the primary engine and you can't ignore it. Yandex has its own image search, ad platform (Yandex Direct), and analytics (Yandex Metrica). ## 4 · ChatGPT Search — the new entrant ChatGPT Search launched November 2024 and reached **measurable global share by 2026** — ~1.8% according to Statcounter, though every methodology has issues measuring this. What makes ChatGPT Search structurally different:
Classic search engine
  • 10 ranked links per query
  • User clicks one (or more)
  • Source sites get the traffic
  • Ads above + within the results
vs
ChatGPT Search
  • One synthesized answer with 2–5 sources cited
  • User reads the answer, sometimes clicks a citation
  • Source sites get attention, not always clicks
  • No ads (yet)
The implication for SEO is significant: you optimize for *being cited inside the answer*, not for ranking. That's a different content discipline — see [GEO consulting](/generative-engine-optimization-consultant/). ## 5 · Perplexity — the dedicated AI search engine Perplexity doesn't show up in classic share measurements (the user base is small relative to Google), but it's strategically important because: - It's the **dedicated AI-search product** (vs ChatGPT, which is also a chatbot) - Perplexity Pro ($20/mo) has a measurable paying user base (millions) - Tech-savvy / research-heavy users use Perplexity *as their primary research engine* If you're in B2B SaaS, devtools, professional services, or any vertical where buyers do research before purchase, your presence in Perplexity matters more than its raw share would suggest. ## 6 · Regional powerhouses Outside the global top list, three regional engines are dominant in their geographies:
  1. 01
    Baidu (China). Dominant in mainland China at ~60% share. Google is largely blocked. Bing is the major Western alternative at ~15%. If you're targeting China, Baidu SEO is its own discipline.
  2. 02
    Naver (South Korea). ~55% share in South Korea — the dominant local search portal. Google is ~30%. Both matter for Korean-targeted businesses.
  3. 03
    Yahoo Japan. ~22% share in Japan (Google ~75%). Yahoo Japan has its own backend infrastructure and serves a distinct audience demographic in Japan.
## 7 · DuckDuckGo, Brave, Kagi, and the privacy tier A category worth flagging: - **DuckDuckGo** — ~0.7% global share but a meaningful "privacy-first" audience. Indexes are Bing + their own crawl. - **Brave Search** — Independent index. Smaller share but growing. - **Kagi** — Paid search engine ($10/mo). Small but high-quality engineering-focused user base. These don't move the needle for most SEO strategies, but knowing they exist matters for completeness. ## What disappeared since 2020 Several engines that you might find in older "top search engines" lists no longer matter or are gone entirely: - **AOL** — Effectively dead as a search engine - **Ask.com** — Pivoted away from search - **WebCrawler** — Defunct - **Ecosia** — Still exists (plants trees per search) but tiny ## The 2026 operator playbook Here's how I'd think about search engine priority in 2026 for a US-based business:
  1. 01
    Google + AI Overviews (must). Still where most traffic decisions happen. Get cited inside the AI Overview, not just ranked beneath it.
  2. 02
    ChatGPT Search + Perplexity (matters in 2026). If your buyers research before purchase, citation matters here.
  3. 03
    Bing (cheap insurance). Submit your sitemap, run Bing Webmaster Tools. Marginal effort, real upside via ChatGPT Search.
  4. 04
    Regional (if relevant). Yandex if Russia / CIS, Baidu if China, Naver if Korea, Yahoo Japan if Japan.
  5. 05
    Don't bother optimizing for (yet). DuckDuckGo, Brave, Kagi, Ecosia. Be indexed; don't optimize separately.
## Bottom line Google still owns search globally, but the shape of "search" itself is changing — AI Overviews on Google, ChatGPT Search and Perplexity as new entrants, and Bing's strategic importance as the index behind ChatGPT. For SEO operators in 2026, the practical game is Google + the AI engines. Everything else is a long-tail to be indexed by but not heavily targeted. > Related: [The 2026 SEO Guide](/seo-tips/) · [GEO consulting →](/generative-engine-optimization-consultant/) · [How does Google make money?](/how-does-google-make-money/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## Calendly Review: Looking Into The Benefits And Features Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/calendly-review/ Published: 2020-03-24 Updated: 2024-06-02 Tags: Marketing, SEO, affiliate marketing, calendly, how to blog, social media tools TL;DR: Calendly is linked to Office 365, Google, Outlook, and apps such as Zapier, Salesforce, and Stripe. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukDt2lGfwG4 Professionals have and use Calendly to schedule events, outline meeting parameters, rules, and designate tasks. ## Table of contents During days that I am flooded with tasks, I take them on with checklists and proper scheduling! > Scheduling tasks can be daunting when you don’t have the proper tools, and there is nothing more satisfying than finding the online scheduling tool that is right for you. I stumbled upon [Calendly](https://calendly.com/) recently and decided to review it here for you. Calendly is a simple scheduling tool that takes the work out of connecting with other people so you can focus more on daily tasks. Users benefit from Calendly with an enjoyable scheduling process. Calendly is linked to Office 365, Google, Outlook, and apps such as Zapier, Salesforce, and Stripe. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukDt2lGfwG4 ## How to Use Calendly? Professionals have and use Calendly to schedule events, outline meeting parameters, rules, and designate tasks. Calendly conforms schedules meetings involving various parties and adds accordingly to their calendars. Moreover, the scheduling tool ensures that no event is booked twice and sets notifications and reminders to keep individuals on track. Relevant: [You would also like to read my guide on getting your Facebook page verified.](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) ## Who Uses Calendly? Calendly is a scheduling tool that can be used in teams and departments at a company so groups can set meetings and distribute tasks. It works for individual professionals, such as myself, who actively schedule appointments apart from their other business practices. Calendly is very simple and easy to use for anyone with a hectic, busy schedule who does not want to worry about the bothersome process of scheduling tasks manually. ## Calendly Features With Calendly, you are empowered to take ownership of your scheduling, and here are some of the features to help you do so: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/LRY10MT1gLwkxo_e8veJp3E84rWAG-fnO1NWGBcL41pklVqPJoEY2QbHT_UC5BNNgSjKaiaGl5qUSt_lytdno2Ooqbbq9i0CIvFToYmZKZr_IAGoSrK7JKP6maQonu6bZk4TB8TC) ### 1\. Profile Customization Calendly delivers a scheduling experience that aligns your brand through removing Calendly branding and customizing your profile. ### 2\. Time zone detection This feature displays the availability of your invitee’s timezone with automated, intelligent time zone detection. ### 3\. Scheduling notice Calendly helps you avoid last-minute meetings and gives you enough time to prepare for scheduled tasks and meetings. ### 4.Notifications This Calendly feature sends you reminders, texts, and confirmation to improve on no-show rates. ### 5\. Streamlining collaboration With Calendly , you can empower your team to create a streamlined and efficient workflow with the following sub-features: **A. Team pages** This offers a single view of various types of meetings, which allows invitees to properly schedule with the relevant individuals, events, or topics. **B. Admin Features** This allows users to get existing and new team members to set up for scheduling for all types of events. **C. Unified Billing** It eliminates expense reports from specific team members with one simple payment that covers each user. **D. Metrics and reporting** This allows parties involved to gain insight with campaign tracking correlating to scheduling and invitee engagement.  ### 6\. Payment integration ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/5IYop5AXqnt10LnthiRRfCvfKcfr1i7m_5LiYqqb60ke8l2zftEnvY9W-1HD3aEfI3v4q0V1M4Jqd_X1Z8SLT0lG77oqmL3-3I1RVmvj8FRY4216Ft04KiuPf6gWT4gs__zhlsqF) With the Payment integration feature, invitees can submit partial or full payments whenever they would schedule an event with you. With this feature, you can accept payments across a team or one-on-one activities with your invitee’s PayPal account, debit, or credit card. You may streamline the billing process into a single step with Calendly’s PayPal integration. The benefits and subfeatures with payment integration are: 1. Collection of payments in USD 2. Including payment terms in line with the scheduling process 3. Making payment optional or required 4. Payment will be automatically routed to your linked account; a receipt will be sent to your invitee from PayPal 5.  Arranging various types of meetings You can hold these types of various meetings with Calendly: 1. One-on-one- allows users and their invitees to schedule individual slots for meetings 2. Round robin- automatically distributes your sessions based on equity, priority, and availability 3. Collective- enables the invitee to schedule time with your multiple members at the same time 4. Group- you can host numerous invitees at once for training, webinars, and much more. ### 7\. Business platforms Calendly business platforms are the following: **A. Calendar integration** This enables you to connect to six Google, Office 365, Outlook, or iCloud calendars so you will not be double booked. **B. Website Embed** This feature allows your customers to schedule from your website directly **C. Integration with existing services** Get directly integrated with Salesforce and with GotoMeeting and connect with other apps with the help of Zapier. **D. Calendly with Chrome** You may access Calendly links with one click and indicate specific available times in line with [ad hoc meetings](https://gizmodo.com/meetings-are-not-going-anywhere-so-here-are-a-few-ways-5960920) to embed into one email **E. Webhooks + API** You can create customized integrations with the assistance of Calendly’s API ## Connecting Calendly and GoToMeeting Connecting your GoToMeeting with Calendly allows you to generate a highly dynamic conferencing link to any type of event. Invitees will be able to receive details of location after scheduling with you. The link will appear along with the event details of the scheduled events tab found on the homepage.  The following are the benefits and features when you connect Calendly and GoToMeeting: - Parties involved can gain access to conferencing details - You and your invitee can instantly access meeting details - Your teams can connect to multiple Calendly accounts to GoToMeeting - You can have real-time updates to support cancellations and reschedules [Also, read how to find and validate someone’s emails](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-find-email/) ## Connecting Calendly and Zoom When a Zoom account is connected to Calendly, video conferencing is made simpler. Having Zoom as your event location automatically outlines conference derails and saves them directly to your calendar event. This feature allows your invitees to instantly have access to these details and protect your effort, time, and help avoid meeting no-shows. Once you have scheduled an event, the circumstances in Zoom will be automatically shown in the confirmation notifications and calendar event details forwarded to your invitees. Here are some of the sub-features and benefits from connecting your Calendly to Zoom: 1. Generate Zoom video conference details for each scheduled meeting 2. Eliminate the need to remember and set video conferencing details for meetings 3. Update meeting details when canceling, postponing or rescheduling ## Advantages of Calendly Here are some of the advantages of Calendly that I’ve found as I navigate through the platform: **1\. Adaptability of scheduling** The best advantage with Calendly is it enables you to set schedules for all sorts of event types. You can allocate available times, blackout dates, automatically add buffer time, limit the number of events to the calendar within a day, and much more. **2\. Efficient for Ongoing Events** This scheduling tool is perfect for setting-up live meetings or events continuously but giving the user enough flexibility and heads up to be in control. Calendly helps facilitate programming in any company because of the versatile interface that makes it user-friendly. The Calendly interface can integrate standard tools such as Outlook for organizational optimization.  **3\. Practicality** Mostly, you are given the freedom to choose a date and time but ensure that is pragmatically first your schedule as well. Calendly is perfect for live scheduling demos for training events, clients, and webinars. It’s great for small to medium-sized sales teams that need a well-maintained flow of sales demos or calls. Calendly makes it easy to communicate with clients since it adjusts and notifies your time with the timezones of your invitees. **4\. Integrated with Numerous Platforms** Calendly can be integrated with popular apps and programs such as Zoom and Paypal. This integrated feature helps you acquire multiple business-related responsibilities while you set up appointments. The more you can automate in Calendly with various platforms, the more energy and time you save. **5\. Fewer emails** Calendly works for scheduling and is integrated with other platforms so you can accomplish tasks altogether. Calendly helps cut down the messages in your inbox and save you the time by scheduling online and not through the back and forth mail **6\. Free version** Calendly’s free version is relatively useful. This makes it a budget-friendly choice for any person who may need further assistance with scheduling. ## Areas Calendly Can Improve Upon Calendly is already a simple and powerful tool, but there is always room for improvement. Some areas that Calendly could improve on are: 1. More variety in scheduling options- there could be much efficient, flexible ways for teams in Calendly if the site expands its group scheduling features. For instance, it would be much better to allow users to set up meetings with someone in their group but not require each of the members to be there.  2. Integrating branded content- For organizations, it could be helpful to have branded Calendly pages, so they can send links to customers and clients with pages that look like they were sourced from the company. This would entail being able to include graphics, colors, typeface, and much more into Calendly pages. ## Wrapping up! All in all, Calendly provides a highly smooth interface that quickly shows users and your teammates your availability and allows them to schedule events with you. Calendly helps users tremendously to simplify their scheduling process by providing a platform to coordinate meetings and calendars with others online. When you use Calendly to schedule, it enables you to skip lengthy emails and long phone calls and veers you straight to multi individual events through sharing custom links. Let me know in the comments if you use Calendly or another scheduling platform. Liked this article? Read more to expand on your platform knowledge: - [How to go viral on Linkedin](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-boost-your-chances-of-going-viral-on-linkedin_us_59a8090ae4b096fd8876c0c9) - [What are Twitter scripts for growth](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/) - [Understanding Youtube SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/youtube-seo/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How To Write An Impressum For Your Company On Facebook Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-write-an-impressum-for-facebook/ Published: 2020-03-18 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO, affiliate marketing, facebook budget, Facebook Cover Photo TL;DR: In 2015, Facebook started adding the “Impressum”, a new feature for business pages, and it led to most users asking what it was for and was it necessary to fill out. ## Table of contents You have made your [business Facebook page](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/), filled out all the details, and even began putting together content. Great! Everything looks good! Have you created an Impressum yet? If your answer is no, this guide will tell you what exactly is an Impressum and why is it important! Google first added the Impressum as part of the page description setting, and it aimed to help create pages that centered on the organization, the brand, or the business. In the early days of the platform, Facebook started adding the “Impressum”, a new feature for business pages, and it led to most users asking what it was for and was it necessary to fill out. The Facebook Impressum requires users to go to the settings and click on the “add Impressum” option, a part of the process to make Facebook page descriptions. ### If you’re a business owner, creating a page warrants the creation of an Impressum as well.  ### This article will help you with the following: 1. Writing and setting up an Impressum for Facebook. 2. Understand the importance of Impressum. 3. Determine the reasons why Facebook added Impressum to its features. 4. Understand the definition and meaning of Impressum. So, how do you set up and write an Impressum for Facebook? Read Below. ## What ‘Impressum’ Means Impressum is originally a Latin word that means ‘Legal Notice,’ ‘Legal Disclosure,’ ‘Credits,’ ‘State of Ownership,’ or ‘Imprint.’ Generally, Impressum is a more refined and fancier version of a page’s terms of conditions and “about us” feature. Although some pages don’t put too much thought into an Impressum, they should use this section as [a way to thoroughly show viewers their backstory, mission, etc](https://www.businessinsider.com/what-your-about-us-page-says-about-your-company-2013-9). ## Using An Impressum For Business ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Fzi6JWVBeO8q08FehPsThsH8eY2vrn6b5JU9O1i1QX5zZG9LQrhv1T4IccIRGN2BW4DA-NHuPefjpOD89YBkqXFnYTlDQz2B14RONPfbqcrcvoVT9A_NEU4liz_T1AdCvon4ks9v) In Germanic countries, owners and authors of data or documents have an Impressum to indicate legal ownership. As required by the law, there should be an Impressum in magazines, newspapers, websites, and books. A website that contains an Impressum is like having a page dedicated to the business or company’s terms and conditions or “about us” page. Unfortunately, English-speaking countries don’t have laws that require having an Impressum. ### However, countries without an Impressum have rules and regulations that protect an owner or author’s rights. Here are a few examples: 1. Having a section dedicated to the website’s “Legal notice,” “Legal Disclosure,” and “Site Notice.” 2. All books should contain critical information (name of the publisher and printer, as well as the date of publication). 3. Both the newspaper and magazines include a list of board members. This list appears most commonly on the editorial page. 4. UK Printer’s Imprint Act 1961 wherein printers should put their name and address on each book they print. 5. Political Parties, Elections, and Referendums Act 2000 wherein promoters must show their names on all election materials. If your country doesn’t have laws that make business owners create an Impressum, it would be best to create a page that’s similar and displays information about the company or brand. Relevant: [Do you know how Facebook makes money? Read here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) ## Why Facebook Added An Impressum? In Germany, lawyers often scrutinize website owners that do not have a proper Impressum. Also, if the Impressum lacks essential information or is wrongly made, a competitor’s lawyer can send a cease and desist order to stop the business from continuing. Due to the issues as mentioned earlier regarding an Impressum, Facebook decided to include it in their public page settings. This feature allows a business owner to state their ownership of a product or business publicly. Adding an Impressum on your business’ Facebook profile lets viewers and profile visitors a detailed presentation of data regarding the company, brand, or website. If your country allows it, you may build an Impressum using several support tools.  ## How To Start Writing An Impressum For Your Page ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8VsRrg7JqRXldyuN2pN8MWUgCg_DGY6SPnfwlAyiXydAaaXJKf4Cij6880vrvcagjh9Dr1MlwyxqtJsOtxmRZ3u4EUOJE_Ga2iuBbKd90a-IlqRfBfygrSLpSeJpHAOcM1cDU0ss) Creating an Impressum on Facebook is both comfortable and convenient. Here are the steps you should follow: 1. Go to Facebook.com and log in to your business account. 2. Click on your profile. 3. [Below your page’s cover photo](https://alejandrorioja.com/facebook-cover-photo-guidelines/), there is an “about” button. Click on it. 4. You will now see the page’s information section plus several features to help edit your Facebook page. Locate the ‘Short Description Option.’ 5. Under the ‘Short Description Option’ and above the ‘Company Overview Option’ is where you can edit your Impressum. Click on “Input Impressum.” 6. Once you click the “Input Impressum,” you can now type in or copy and paste your company’s Impressum on the blank box. Facebook allows a maximum of 2,000 characters for an Impressum so that you can fully express and show what your company is all about.  ### What to add in the Impressum? ### However, it’s important to always include the following information in the Impressum: 1. The name of the company/ business/organization 2. The address of the company/ business/organization 3. Contact number/s, fax number/s, email address 4. The owner’s name 5. The manager’s name 6. The license and registration number of the company/ business/ organization 7. Several links that direct to the official website of the company/ business/ organization. Adding the information mentioned above helps Facebook handle situations such as a business getting involved in a jurisdiction that requires an Impressum. Having an Impressum lets Facebook use the links provided by the company as well as the information posted. In the end, there is a transfer of liability to the company/ business/ organization. ## The Role Of Impressum Generators Believe it or not, the majority of page visitors do take the time to read about a business’s information. Owners should see the Impressum as an essential aspect of the company’s page.  Sometimes, creating a compelling and exciting Impressum is a difficult task. Business owners also don’t have an idea regarding the laws that involve an Impressum. Thanks to Impressum generators, business owners have access to endless guides and support. These programs aid in creating an outstanding, exceptional, and effective content. Also, [Facebook allows owners to retain a business profile](https://www.businessinsider.com/facebook-launches-business-page-migration-tool-2011-4) by offering to help a user switch or migrate from one profile type to another. This program allows owners to abide by Facebook’s terms of service (TOS) and make use of the platform’s functionality. ## Bottom line As the years go by, more business owners are turning to social media platforms such as Facebook as a way to endorse and display essential company information. If you have a company or business, make sure that you include an Impressum on your Facebook page. However, if your country does not have Impressum laws yet, the next best thing would be to include information that’s similar to the content of an Impressum.  If you loved this article, here are other great posts for you: - [How To Change Your Facebook Page Name](https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/) - [What is Facebook jail and how can you avoid it?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-avoid-facebook-jail/) - [Invite All Your Facebook Friends To Like A Page Or Event](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-event-facebook-script/) Make sure to leave a comment or message on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) or [Twitter](https://twitter.com/riojaalejandro) for other topics requests. Also, don’t forget to submit suggestions and comments regarding my site! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## BlueHost Review: Your Effective Web Hosting Solution Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/bluehost-review/ Published: 2020-03-07 Updated: 2024-05-29 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: Even more, it was the first hosting company to earn an official recommendation from the makers of WordPress. Matt Heaton first thought of BlueHost in 1996 but only started seven years later in 2003. ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. *This post contains affiliate links in which I receive commissions. The reviews and opinions expressed in this article are my own.* When launching my site, I spent a good amount of time looking and comparing reliable web hosting service companies. > But why spend so much time on something as simple as hosting you ask? Well, because if your website frequently goes down or face other similar issues, your potential customers will not be able to even visit the site. Based on my experience, I can vouch for a handful of Hosting service providers and [Bluehost](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bluehost/) tops the list for affordable and simple hosting. BlueHost is definitely one of the largest and most popular web hosting service companies in the world – [keeping more than two million websites up and running](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bluehost-develops-open-source-script-to-update-two-million-wordpress-sites-300219229.html). Even more, it was the first hosting company to earn an official recommendation from the makers of WordPress. Matt Heaton first thought of BlueHost in 1996 but only started seven years later in 2003. Since then, BlueHost has been at the forefront of web hosting technology – they introduced CPU throttling in 2009 and VPS and dedicated hosting in 2013.  Also, they have acquired some of their competitors over the years, further increasing their reach and capabilities. While a lot of other web hosting companies have sprung up over the years, BlueHost remains among the best choices for casual users and experienced developers.  Here you will find a  summary of one of BlueHosts’ most popular services – managed WordPress hosting. Also included are its strengths and weaknesses compared to most of its major competitors in the same area of service. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBDUuT3NOIA ## BlueHost Managed WordPress Hosting While there are other web hosting engaged in the WordPress content market, from the all-around GoDaddy to WordPress-specific hosts such as Kinsta and WPEngine, a lot of users still choose BlueHost as their managed WP host provider.  From features to pricing plans, I have put together a breakdown of BlueHost Managed WP so you can see if it fits your needs. [Relevant: Read all the reasons that make WordPress great here!](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-features/) ### Features with WP users in mind One of the questions WordPress users ask is if they can expect a lot of trouble adjusting to an external web hosting service provider. The fact is BlueHost allows a smooth transition for first-time users with its extensive knowledge base, excellent customer support, and WordPress-specific features.  In terms of features, BlueHost does keep the users of WordPress in mind with these designs and functionalities: - **WordPress custom control panel** BlueHost offers a custom dashboard designed in a way that is familiar with most WordPress users, making tasks and controls intuitive and easy to learn. [![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pRE0d39CHN8LLXJqjO3AryJIGyU6YPC2Elrb7by9G6uIeSyNss4DA0pPSPfUYvPTpBbbrWF0WB-1bhy14uoO-htK3tOU8OVQOwuVkMnhhqf_eMPTVQ51Sceg1pd6_0fdbruP1rML)](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/uIdCYpXK4x458zmweN6Fddk9QPxry3CoLRaOFgb4BqfgYkg_5pIYLQEjG5fSmFfS4v3OKEjgC0rkUGcN4asTOL0SVSMEuD2tEfHPqX0j3Faif61ZDBDW4W17ZEZpxhDljHl1v8hA) - **ManageWP integration** ManageWP is an integrated management dashboard that allows WordPress users to streamline and automate their tasks across multiple WordPress sites. It is among the first WordPress management tools available in the market with the intention of managing two or more sites seamlessly. Some of the capabilities of ManageWP include an overview of critical data for your websites such as the number of spam comments appearing on each of your pages, the overall number of revisions for all contents on the site, and the overall file size of your database.  You can also view the data via its analytic dashboard which you can further connect with Google Analytics for a more thorough breakdown. ### Support Options One of the strengths of your WordPress website hosted by BlueHost is its support service, which is among the best you can find in the market today.  A huge share of percentage in any of the tech services often stay for longer because of excellent customer support and subscribers can be assured that BlueHost maintains: - A customer support portal available via phone and live chat, 24/7. - An extensive and in-depth [help database](https://my.bluehost.com/hosting/help) ### Performance BlueHost maintains a custom-tailored approach to its WordPress users to give them the best performance and experience using their services. There are some  excellent services you can expect from WordPress hosting managed by BlueHost like: 1. A Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) Hypervisor – it is an open-source virtualization technology included in Linux. Initially, it was designed to use the Linux operating system as a hypervisor for running separate guest sites called virtual machines (VM). For online users, the [KVM Hypervisor](https://www.redhat.com/en/topics/virtualization/what-is-KVM) allows BlueHost servers to isolate their hardware resources and run multiple virtual machines without the guests experiencing delays or degraded performance. 2. NGINX – it is an online web server that is used for a variety of improving client experience – from load balancing, reverse proxy servers, and HTTP cache. It is often viewed as the more streamlined alternative to older Apache HTTP Server 3. Virtual Private Server (VPS) – all websites hosted by BlueHost with its WordPress Managed hosting have their very own VPS. Having their own virtual private server means that they do not share online resources with their co-WordPress users. This is important in keeping their privacy and increases both speed and security. ### Pricing BlueHost’s managed WordPress hosting is available in three levels:
 Bluehost Managed WordPress Hosting
PlanBuildGrowScale
Price (month)$19.99 $29.95 $49.95 
No of WP sitesUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
No of Domain namesUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Free DomainYESYESYES
Monthly avg. traffic100 million600 millionUnlimited
FeaturesJetpack Site Analytics (Basic)Marketing Center100+ Free WP ThemesDaily Scheduled BackupsMalware Detection and RemovalDomain Privacy + Protection1 Office 365 Mailbox free for 30 DaysEverything in Build Plus:
Jetpack PremiumBusiness Review ToolsBluehost SEO ToolsJetpack Ads Integration		Everything in Grow Plus:
Jetpack Pro IncludedUnlimited Backups and RestorePayPal Integration
The price is average for managed WordPress hosting, mainly because it uses more resources and offers more features compared to shared hosting. It is highly recommended to start out with the Build Plan.  Should your traffic increase, or if you need more tools for customization and analytics, you can move to the higher plans as you see fit. ## BlueHost vs GoDaddy [![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/XG_iHLInzJd54Ya2jnYpXfrYWlOahbWJIF25CvOwpsIGHh4YO4nuL589NjpisXJicigNOkmuu5OkwIa7ujodKpG4UYDZ3sK15CrP_Ft7wkRnNjTbVP8Jz9jKZbXAUEm5q4W7VIS-)](https://www.ukwebhostreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Bluehost-vs-Godaddy.jpg) GoDaddy, with its wide range of plans and services and its aggressive marketing campaigns, have grown to become the to-go web hosting service provider for most people, especially for beginners.  ### BlueHost vs GoDaddy: Pricing Plans You should know that the prices compared are only for Managed WordPress hosting, shared hosting for both web hosting companies are a different matter altogether.  However, while GoDaddy offers flexible and cheap plans for most of their services compared to other companies, in the arena for managed WordPress hosting, BlueHost takes the lead.
 GoDaddyBluehost 
PlanPro 5Pro 10Pro 25Pro 50BuildGrowScale
Price (month)$24.99 $49.99 $89.99$169.99 $19.99 $29.95 $49.95 
No of WP sites5102550UnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
No of Domain namesN/AN/AN/AN/AUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Data Storage5080100200UnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
Free domainYESYESYESYESYESYESYES
Monthly avg. trafficN/AN/AN/AN/A100 million600 millionUnlimited
### BlueHost vs GoDaddy: Features Of course, managed hosting is usually used by developers and owners planning to set up a business website. They expect to manage more than one website and project a large number of online traffic to come in. Both BlueHost and GoDaddy offer SSL certificate for all their plans which makes your site authentication easier. BlueHost, however, boasts unlimited websites and unlimited storage which is unavailable with [GoDaddy’s managed WP hosting](https://www.godaddy.com/hosting/pro-wordpress-hosting), as reflected in the limits in each of their plans. Also, malware protections come with all plans on both providers, so the risk of malware harming your site is another problem taken care of. On the other hand, [BlueHost’s managed hosting](https://www.bluehost.com/wordpress/managed-hosting?utm_source=%28direct%29&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=affiliate-link_aleriojablue_notype) has prescribed traffic volume for its managed hosting plans except for Scale. However, there’s no need to worry since exceeding your limits does not necessarily translate to additional charges. GoDaddy on this front relies on its seamless scalability made possible by its large number of servers which manage traffic and adjusts accordingly. ## BlueHost vs Kinsta ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rFXoYxXhaxxAOZpIQZylf4G_HnJQ1ajEXVYurJ8y9xGTtQf8jW9cgiWBa6EhwdOPKHInarjhtXu6YGIAucz6V0UMmNwnL9UvQzm-HfZeX97AG3MwnUnB-0rgwqBGxy85zfNF3JaF) While BlueHost maintains traffic and keeps its servers in-house in Utah, Kinsta offers cloud-based hosting. Even better, Kinsta offers its hosting services via the Google Apps servers.  This means that your WordPress websites are basically hosted and run using the same infrastructure as Google. So you need to see which company suits your needs and your budget.  In the entire web hosting industry, BlueHost has the upper hand in terms of reach and flexibility – offering plans for web hosting outside WordPress, and even their WP hosting can come in shared or in managed options to cater to a wider range of users and developers. Kinsta, meanwhile, solely focuses on managing WordPress websites but it does so with a clear advantage in terms of tech and security features. ### BlueHost vs Kinsta: Pricing Plans Right off the bat, [Kinsta](https://kinsta.com/plans/) offers more costly plans for its managed WordPress hosting. It has plans starting from Starter, Pro, then Business 1 to 4, then Enterprise 1 to 4. Starter plans for WP hosting are at 30 USD per month while the Enterprise 4 pricing plan is at 1,500 USD.  Of course, the higher upfront costs are quite understandable with Kinsta, given the technology and the infrastructure they use for their managed WP hosting. Basically, if you’re not looking to utilize the cloud-based hosting as strongly advertised by Kinsta, you might not be getting the most out of your money’s worth.

Kinsta
PlanStarterProBusiness 1Business 4Enterprise 1Enterprise 4
Price per Month30601004006001500
No of WP Websites1254060150
Storage (in GB)10203060100250
Monthly Traffic20K40K100K600K1M3M
BackupAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one click restoreAutomatic/ Manual backups available with one click restore
Malware ProtectionYesYesYesYesYesYes
SSL Certificatesfreefreefreefreefreefree
### BlueHost vs Kinsta: Features Data backups, malware protection, and SSL certificates are already available even with the lowest price plans from both providers. In terms of technological advantage, Kinsta expectedly gains the upper hand over BlueHost. The Google-based WP hosting company has already laid out PHP 7.3 over its competitor’s PHP 7.0.  To put it simply, Kinsta already has a significant advantage in terms of processing speed and security. Also, the use of lower versions of PHP poses significant security threats. In the BlueHost community, a lot of old accounts still use PHP 5.6 even though support for versions until PHP 7 has already ended last December. Updating to the latest PHP 7.3 would require the user to either create a new account or pay a one-time bill of 150 USD for server upgrades. On the plus side, for users with less technological concerns, BlueHost more than makes up for it with their storage and websites. BlueHost offers limitless storage size as well as the ability to host as many sites as you want.  To put it in perspective, Kinsta’s starter plan only supports one WordPress website and has a monthly limit of only 10GB. ## BlueHost vs WPEngine ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/1uxSHnMX_bkb-jdiSuu2_uLXo2BEdHhhrGZmLW8avhRJo6B97WXWMJG3MV-VmF_BN3nvZrEXYkfLp66u62BhLHDWrPzeeEUjkMS5ZTihC1--mUYPWCEXTG0qc6gz_7KbdRMPkh4j) BlueHost, like GoDaddy, offers a wider range of services in the domain registry and web hosting industry. WPEngine, like Kinsta, is a dedicated web hosting service provider for managed WordPress content. To compare both, let’s focus only on their managed WordPress hosting plans and see if the top two hosting providers meet your requirements. [](https://alejandrorioja.com/set-up-ecommerce-store/) ### BlueHost vs WPEngine: Pricing Plans In the managed WordPress hosting arena, [WPEngine](https://wpengine.com/plans/) starts out just a little above BlueHost’s with 35 USD for its Startup plan. However, it scales and escalates immediately, going up to 290 USD a month for the Scale plan.  This lack of flexibility between WPEngine’s pricing plans will require careful study before changing plans, or starting one. BlueHost keeps afloat of the competition due to the features they offer across the board, at the prices indicated in the above table.

WPEngine
PlanStartupGrowthScale
Price per Month30115290
No of WP Websites11030
Storage (in GB)102050
Monthly Traffic25K100K400K
BackupN/AN/AN/A
Malware ProtectionN/AN/AN/A
SSL Certificatesfreefreefree
### BlueHost vs WPEngine: Features WPEngine also falls short in the same category as the first two competitors – the number of websites. While not every user will go and put up websites one after the other, the idea of being able to set up another site without changing plans keeps BlueHost ahead of the rest.  The same idea can also be applied to the storage limitations, which BlueHosts advertise they do not have on all plans. Meanwhile, it is important to note that WPEngine is focused more on enterprise-level business and high-traffic sites. As the owner, you no longer need to worry about performance-enhancing plugins like W3 Cache or CDN, as is usually the case with WordPress websites.  Their content delivery network features are only enabled for subscribers of Growth and Scale pricing plans. This feature is one of WPEngine’s strengths in terms of fasting content delivery from their managed websites anywhere in the world by utilizing a system of interconnected servers that defines the fastest route to its end-users based on their geographic locations. In terms of extending reach for your WordPress sites, WPEngine will keep you on top of the line technology in marketing and delivery speeds. BlueHost, on the other hand, might lag in terms of tech but gives its users a pretty neat marketing incentive. Their managed WP hosting plans come with a free search engine submission tool, a 100 USD Google Ads Credit, a 50 USD Facebook Ads Credit, and a free listing for Yellowpages. Another testament to WPEngine’s focus and commitment to its enterprise-scale websites is its proprietary EverCache technology. This front-end system they use for their managed WordPress sites significantly reduces the page-load times for their websites.  If you are after fast and secure delivery of your content to your market, WPEngine definitely delivers and more, but at a price. Lastly, BlueHost gains the upper hand in terms of customer support services. The best part is it maintains 24/7 voice and chat support for their users, regardless of the plan subscription. WPEngine, unfortunately, only offers chat support for Startup plan subscribers.  Although their support is also available anytime, voice support is only available on the next two plans, which start at 115 USD per month. ## Wrapping it up! BlueHost maintains its lead in the industry by diversifying the services it offers while keeping investments in its technology and infrastructure. This way, it achieves the pricing range second only to GoDaddy but can still keep up with WordPress-focused managed web hosting entities such as Kinsta and WPEngine.  Also, among their strongest points in terms of general marketability lies in its limitless storage space and website building. Although storage sizes of 10GB a month are quite high and are rarely exceeded, except for media-heavy websites, BlueHost’s promise of limitless storage from its most basic plan at only less than 20 USD a month is enough to draw the market in. I hope this review will help you decide if you should go for BlueHost as your hosting service company. Don’t forget to drop your feedback below in the comment section. Sign up for Bluehost [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/recommends/bluehost/). You would also like to read: - [My guide to get 250,000+ visits to your website](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-website-traffic/) - [What are the best E-Commerce Platforms currently?](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-ecommerce-platforms/)  - Check other [useful SEO tools](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tools/) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## ClickFunnels Review: What’s All The Hype About? Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/clickfunnels-review/ Published: 2020-03-03 Updated: 2024-05-30 Tags: Marketing, SEO ## Table of contents **[Operator's read]** This is from inside an actual P&L I'm responsible for — not theory. If something doesn't earn its keep on a live revenue line, it's not in here. One thing I can’t stress enough in my [digital marketing guides](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/) is knowing how to sell your products and services smartly. If you ask me, you can sell anything to anyone, provided you are familiar with the right tools and know your way around [creative sales technique which I recently talked about here.](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/)  If you are trying to sell things online and looking for ways to do it more successfully, you must be familiar with [ClickFunnels](https://www.clickfunnels.com/). If not, you must have definitely seen a business using ClickFunnels and maybe even have bought an informational product or service through it.  Rings a bell? Let me remind you!  You see a cool call to action button with a video on a side or a pop up of a course description along with testimonials about how it helped someone else make money. And finally the “Today Only” discounted pricing with a timer which may tempt you to opt for it! Now you know what I am talking about! This conversion formula of call-to-actions, social proof and urgency is mastered by Clickfunnels, which is a tool that essentially helps you build proven landing pages.  > Given its simplicity and effectiveness, Clickfunnels made quite the fuss and became one of the largest SaaS companies in a short period of time. The whole goal of using this software is to nudge your customers in the right direction when it comes to making the purchasing decision without being too pushy and [building proper trust in your brand.](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/) This is what many businesses need, which is why ClickFunnel became a go-to platform for many users. I decided to put together this guide to explain everything you need to know about sales funnels, and how you can use ClickFunnels to deliver highly converting landing pages.  ## What Are Sales Funnels? A [sales funnel](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/296526) is one of the core digital marketing industry concepts that can transform your business from an unknown company to a successful multi-million business and this can happen quite fast. It’s just a series of steps that your prospects take from the first time they interact with your brand to the time they purchase.   For instance, someone can see your ad on Facebook, click on it, get to a landing page, fill out their info, buy your product.  It works like a  normal funnel. You pour something from one side, and get the filtered content from the other end! As simple as that! Similarly, a sales funnel lets you filter a larger audience into those individuals who will actually make the purchase. ### Stages of a Sales Funnel There are 4 stages in a sales funnel : ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/l6rbA78bA7ficn3q2KICzF0Ww7OKZG-c3w6Y7Z34r5AtYrswLIlyZy_hgelPtigjpVawHcu89Na4QuxTuGx3od8Lj4_JY2lj5fsmUiQyktPjYQS77pMMhYC-8IHBg0QrR3YswIqz) - **Awareness**— people come to the sales funnels through different channels such as advertisements, newsletters, e-mails, eBook downloads, online quizzes, etc. There is always an enticing offer that brings them to the funnel. One thing I would suggest here is to always be aware of your customers’ problems and try to solve them through your funnel. In order for that to happen, they need to be aware of your business.  Once the prospects are aware of your business and offering, it is your job to make them go through the multiple stages and turn them into buyers.  The prospects won’t buy just anything that is offered to them unless it [has a lot of (perceived) value](https://alejandrorioja.com/brand-equity/), so you need to think about how best to market the value that you’re offering. -  **Interest**— once people are aware and see the value, you need to keep them engaged. Try to be relatable and start telling your story on how you’ve arrived at this point.  The message that you are conveying has to be consistent throughout the whole sales funnel and you mustn’t lie. These are ways through which you can “hook” the prospects to turn into buyers. Now I know this won’t be easy, but it’s necessary. -  **Decision**—the third stage in the process is the decision. Pushing your customers to [make a purchasing decision](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/) is always a hard thing to execute.  There are some things that you can do to try and convince them to make a decision. A good story-telling, encourage them to click links, and most of all having reviews or testimonials of your existing customers.  Let me add here that word-of-mouth is always the best marketing tactic. You can also try some retargeting ad strategy to try and change the minds of those who are interested in a particular subject but don’t opt to buy your offer for any reason. - **Action**— is the final stage of the sales funnel and in most cases, this end in a  purchase. Otherwise, it’s basically any other action that you’re hoping to inspire in your prospects(Which could be signing up for a free volunteering event, for instance)  The conversion in this stage will be based on how well you performed in all the previous stages. A good marketer knows their conversion value and they try to perfect their sales funnel according to it.  Getting here is pretty complicated and requires a lot of work. You need to put an effort and do a lot of tracking in order for it to work. That’s where sale funnel software comes in.  [](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/) ### Difference between Sales Info and Sales Funnel By now, you might be wondering what is the difference between a simple website where you have all the sales info, and a sales funnel? The difference is that when your website is the landing page, it might be offering general information. On the website, you will find information about the company,  But when it comes to a sales funnel, it is like the equivalent of an experienced salesperson in a store that can identify the needs of the customers. Now, if you’re thinking well I can just run ads for that purpose, no? Sure, you can. But the question is how likely you are to convince people to actually make a purchase through those ads? I have to go a little off track and plugin the metaphor or marriage here! Yes, you will understand this even better, trust me! You can ask any stranger to marry you right away, but are they going to say yes? And even if they do, will that marriage work? A better way would be to meet somebody you like, get to know each other, start a relationship, maybe move in together, and then make a big commitment. That’s how sales funnel works; by nurturing the customers stage by stage until they are ready to commit. ## **Background of ClickFunnels** ClickFunnels was launched in 2014 and in the span of three years, it revolutionized the online marketing industry. It provides an online sales funnel for businesses and entrepreneurs making it easier for them to sell their products online. Russell Brunson is the man behind ClickFunnels, and this is not his only success. He is a great marketer that has had other marketing adventures as well. He is also a bestselling author of two books: DotCom Secrets and Expert Secrets. In the beginning, ClickFunnels was supposed to be a way for Brunson and his teammates to quickly create different funnels for different purposes. Once they developed it, they got the realization that it can be a great product that other people can find useful as well. ### How does **ClickFunnels** work? ClickFunnels basically automate the entire sales process while providing you the control over all the stages of the buying process of your customers. It is a software that is quite simple, and it grants you leads through a very simple process. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Fh2UmpJlMEvNQaBNVkGZtL-bkqLGGVTube4V_6IoQj-t9Vhnd8u8twE8e70Xmpy0qvGU3gTJazuotOCP2h1Joxz-fSJ_TCsBOmGT1147yRAUBVsWtTY7aO-SiHXgIvYm7_YYiHnd) Let me explain how the process usually works. - **You run an ad**—drive traffic to your ClickFunnels landing page. For the sake of the explanation, let’s imagine that we’re selling an SEO course. (Hint: you can [create beautiful imagery using Canva](https://alejandrorioja.com/canva-review/)) - **Landing page**—when people click on the ad, they go to the ClickFunnels landing page where you, according to our example, offer a free trial of the course or a free first SEO lesson. When people click on the button for free access to the lesson or trial, they need to leave their e-mail for registration. You can use this later for retargeting. - **First sales page**—once they leave the e-mail and continue to the next page, they get the first sales page where you offer them a special type of course for only $30. Here they give credit card info and proceed. - **Upsell**—this is the original product or the best product that you want to push on people. Here, we might sell the one month course or advanced course for $400. The page remembers the credit card info so customers only need to click a button. - **Downsell**—if they refuse the big offer, they are sent to a downsell page where you’re saying *“oh if you don’t want that $400 course, maybe you’d be interested in a cheaper course of $50”*. -  **Thank you page**—the last page is like a thank you page, giving the free course we offered, our links to social media, etc. [Relevant: Read On-Page SEO tips here](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) ## Ready to see what this looks like in action? Here are some great Sales Funnels Examples There are many companies that use sales funnels very well, so I will just introduce a few good examples that do it right - ***Groupon*** Groupon has one of the best CTA buttons. They are clear, large, and smartly positioned. They draw a lot of attention from the customers and sure enough, they work. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/J-5b7ZuxlKhTo7bSJbVnMGemM87VRVRJ62GW6hMGlyFiBlTsLsd75SHn5nWQL0wHr0JYQoVx9qfK0RvX8qaUVjg7gxRRnAw1ptHsv9ppWngBopx3ysHZJCFpBLCRH5s0QVv7jV6X) In addition, Groupon uses non-intrusive pop-ups that combined with the ClickFunnels produce amazing results. The reason this works is that they always use the perfect balance between pushing customers and being too pushy and scaring them off. - ***Netflix*** Netflix is already a very successful company, and they have the expertise needed to create a profitable sales funnel. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/0LwzNvVRb8fWTOC50Hl1j66Cu-ZfJ9mmRDn7cDKPSxeYPfBJl5AtPJ-YsXbRJI4wrNMyhmK4P75RNur84RVphwkPui9s7ia6hizUDNh8TikMkdP60nCsg9oWaO9IrIT8VKPAlcck) The main selling point of their sales funnel is the fact that you can cancel the subscription any time you want at no cost. Also, the pages are created in a way that is very simple without too much text, but at the same time, they leave nothing for the users to guess about. It is basically a three-step process where the customer only submits the absolutely necessary info.  However, they could use some [A/B](https://flux.la/how-to-ab-test/) [testing](https://flux.la/how-to-ab-test/) since one page has a white background and the next has black, making in a bit unharmonious.  - ***Mixergy*** Mixergy made something a bit different. They are straight to the point with a huge CTA button and they offer a video for the users’ information. All of this looks visually appealing, and it comes naturally with the website. That is of course only the first step of the funnel, and after that sale, pitches follow. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dDdv1QHd-Z3AY6fZTgv_8zJIHseDb5_YHYqTyXrgCuXzShiu4glEOfiuRm7bOyYSxlAWAt2PKQr5Uvr0SqOFTnolQvAhkEiFKvnHyVRiOouAn_Mss_7xfNFW1hsAc2BiBVnGFYx6) They are doing it in a way to not spam the users. The prospects know what they are getting into from the start. - ***Harvest*** They have a very simplistic design that is pleasant to the eye. But the real thing here is their social value which is one of the best-selling points of the company. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/1ZSbSk4PyDsl4bOaFcTsrxIX_KBX3vO4_7FUrCBNSdj73FrwiyyaX-Bv8dtyomrs1PHWItIPR8NF-8wqwW2tXwYYWB85lgK1lIUQQu7LbAmLN6nGqwFzYphr8s339XQGA-INkI3Z) User reviews and testimonials are included along with a few CTAs that make Harvest look inviting but not pushy. ## Some of the best ClickFunnel experts  - **Bryan Dulaney:** is considered to be in the top 1% of all marketers and funnel experts currently. He launched a very successful ClickFunnel for Russell Brunson that achieved more than 95.000 members. He also helped in the biggest launch in history when it comes to CF, selling over 500 courses for Tony Robbins & Dean Graziosi. The price of these courses was$1997 each, so he generated more than $1MM.  - **Wes Bewley:** is an entrepreneur from Texas who earned his first million by the time he was 28. He is an expert in building ClickFunnels. So much so, that he has the infamous membership into the Two-Comma Club for earning over $1M with CF for his Entrepreneur Fight Club CF. - **Jason Fladlien:** is another name on this list. The CF for his company RapidCrush functions all too well-offering webinars to people. His success with this CF is why he is on this list of the best CF experts. He is also a member of the Two-Comma Club.  - **Adrian Morrison:** another member of the $1M CF club. The CF that he succeeded with is on his own webpage. He is one of the top Facebook marketers in the world, generating millions of dollars via Facebook Ads. His vast marketing knowledge applies to CF as well apparently. - **Alex & Leila Hormozi:** are in this list as members of the Two-Comma Club for their GymLaunch CF. They use their gym expertise to teach other gym owners on how to build profitable gym models with high profitability. What takes it to the next level are the interactive elements and professional graphics that are included. ## Features and Pricing   ClickFunnels has these main features: - Activity Dashboard - A/B Testing  - Auto-Responders  - CRM Integration  - Conversion Rate Optimization - Conversion Tracking - Custom Landing Pages - Customer Database - Drag & Drop Interface  - E-mail Tracking  - Monitoring  - Performance Reporting  - Referral Tracking  - SEO Management  - Web Analytics  - Web Forms  - Website Management  These are just some of the most frequently used features, but there are a lot more in addition to them.  ## ClickFunnels Pricing When it comes to pricing, ClickFunnels has different models based on the features offered in each plan.  The most affordable one is $97 per month and is for startups.  The Full Suite option will cost you $297 per month, the Funnel Hacks option is $997 per 6 months, and the priciest option Funnel Hacks 1 Year will cost you $1997 per year.  ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/NuYaV1XbHXWQv-dK6qLEVIaELC6y2kWr7d2QT1US2raQnhVRnd-4W-bA4sG0cTxbl13QMl_iz4MUgf0tyBJzRzEMSinEFGlcfMrlOSnrB_mnNly_SYfpEHysi4FNKM3nMMG4ADaN) The main difference among these options is the number of landing pages and the sales funnels per month.[](https://www.markinblog.com/clickfunnels-price/) ## Is ClickFunnels Worth the Hype? -  I really believe that ClickFunnels makes it very easier to generate leads and scale your offerings. - According to their [website](https://www.clickfunnels.com/blog/affiliates-making-bank/), in 2017 they paid out more than $11 million in commissions to affiliates. By this year, this number is probably much higher. - And according to their statistics, the average payout was $2,552 and the median payout was $458. So, even if you are a starter you could make some additional revenue for sure, but if you master the usage of ClickFunnels then you can make a substantial amount of money. ***I recommend giving Clickfunnels a try***. If you found this post helpful, I am sure you will also find these reviews and guides that I have written handy - [Should you outsource your tasks for $5? A Fiverr Review](https://alejandrorioja.com/fiverr-review/) - [Audible Review](https://alejandrorioja.com/audible-review/): How I read 30-40 books per year. - [Amazon SEO Guide](https://alejandrorioja.com/amazon-seo/) If you have any suggestions or want me to review something, leave a comment below. You can also follow me on Facebook [here!](https://www.facebook.com/riojaalejandro) --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. --- ## 500+ Best Instagram Captions for Every Occasion Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/best-instagram-captions/ Published: 2020-02-09 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: If you are new to this, let me share with you some tips and examples of over 500+ IG captions that you can use for various occasions. Here are some recommendations on how you can create captions that will generate comment and interest from your audience: 1. ## Table of contents Instagram captions are essential to all the pictures that you want to post because they help the audience understand the context of the photos.  It may tell the story in detail, or it could be a short explanation of the situation.  Bundling the right pic, with the right caption and hashtags can help you [grow your Instagram account](https://flux.la/how-to-get-more-instagram-followers/).  If you are new to this, let me share with you some tips and examples of over 500+ IG captions that you can use for various occasions. ## Tips on How to Write Instagram Captions Here are some recommendations on how you can create captions that will generate comment and interest from your audience: 1. Questions are encouraged since they can engage the viewers. 2. Keep it under 330 words, or 2,200 characters. 3. Utilize various [emojis](https://www.newsweek.com/facebook-instagram-really-banning-sex-emoji-sexual-solicitation-policy-1468608) to help support the message you are trying to get across to the audience. 4. Try to get inspiration from existing typical captions that many people around the world use.  ## Best Instagram Captions for Every Occasion ### Selfies: 1. Me, myself, and I 2. I woke up like this. 3. You do you. 4. I was born to stand out. 5. But, first, let me take a selfie. 6. In terms of looks, I’m second to none. 7. Too glam to give a damn. 8. Self-love is just as important as any other type of love. 9. Change starts from within.  10. No ounce of insecurity here.  11. Here I am just looking like a flower.  12. Look at me now.  13. Oh hi. 14. How do I look? 15. Born to be me. ### Instagram Quotes: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/29QgcLQvis_19aeUTVJKpnFhSxKTl6jOGN6nsPj7316Qj9CDHtYJEnN87Nvmx0m7spsPTvy4IC8DMIQcmCm2sJ4uYaubnLWp_zLEAAth_PAt82qMJC94xxdf8_nMJPP-2HjJp_Ok) 1. Better an oops than a what if. 2. Do it now. Sometimes later becomes never. 3. You have what it takes. 4. Stay Positive. 5. The one who seeks shall find. 6. Do what you love with people you love. 7. You can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets. 8. I’m coming for everything they said I couldn’t have. 9. The chase was tough, so is life.  10. Enjoy the little things. 11. I realize now that dying is easy. Living is hard. 12. Self-confidence is the best outfit. 13. Life is too short. Smile while you still have teeth. 14. There are no shortcuts to any place worth going. 15. It’s going to be hard, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. ### Success: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/h6uNeXTDiaIU1QeDhA2shqoEa9KyzEOI-0QZoChRDINz0KyZ6lJWBpeRJjBZiqDLioUg__TQUFCcxYtFvl0neTvq0buL6S5FGI6s3e5V_IGs4W1LvHCw4X2HUP04fdAQ-1ZCHkZO) 1. All our hard work has paid off. 2. Every ounce of effort didn’t go to waste.  3. Everything is hard before it becomes easy. 4. Show them your results instead of your plans. 5. Plan. Act. Hustle. Succeed 6. Be productive, and you’ll achieve your dreams sooner than later. 7. Success doesn’t come easy. It takes your blood, sweat, and tears. 8. Never quit on your daydreams.  9. Always remember why you started.  10. Sacrifices are necessary to become successful. 11. Success is sweeter after many hardships. 12. Entrepreneur life. 13. Perseverance is everything. 14. Nothing ever comes easy. 15. I’ve achieved the impossible. ### New Couples: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ifWYLTvRHbj-T91FwIqKL1okc3hO8JAgWQOxmq5JVT-L4HNb8F7OD4aSPW_p6PKNCIbP_BBjPz0av1gWdMujf_s42dAgDrHW1RdsJ8E4mOcnA09Rwes0S2hxlmy2QcjnyJIL4Z6x) 1. Couple goals. 2. I’ve finally found you. 3. Everything has fallen into place.  4. You’re my one and only. 5. Strangers turned into lovers. 6. You’re my lobster. 7. Love you to the moon and back. 8. You make me the happiest.  9. My bae. 10. Meeting you was not a coincidence. It was fate. 11. You are my destiny. 12. Love someone who treats you extraordinarily well. 13. You are my person, as I am yours.  14. You changed my life as soon as you stepped into my life. 15. Always better together. ### Engagement: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/argMRz4_2z0VV5NjQTI60V2PTjX80KjXk8EbRe6NaOaiKOA2jFOVyOACNAIJ3u2TO-T5rtr_37hLH096WWFPjOxjPgcaW6AhYtylg3fNkw3gRmjPfqu0_0PNP0RuDmCjsuBDqZvi) 1. I said yes! 2. He finally put a ring on it. 3. Meet my fiance. 4. Can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you. 5. Well, boys, I’m officially off the market. 6. I’ll start preparing to become your Mrs. 7. Fairytales are real. 8. Guess why my hand is so heavy. 9. Shine bright like the diamond on this ring. 10. We’re soulmates, alright. 11. Pop the champagne and let’s celebrate.  12. I’m engaged to my one true love. 13. On the road to forever.  14. Thanks to you, I experienced my dream proposal. 15. Engaged has a nice ring to it.  ### Weddings: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mrM5at3TmMcClU5i9KGPUOMblzU9bUlKOlwIW6t6_-KyEyHsWF1d278t_Tk1KARshkHgClFMMlY5vYK3BFaMZiDFWsLVcSiRqd-hAFNjG2xzRUlljhI1qFhTjatw56Hsl361m68X) 1. Now, you’re stuck with me forever. 2. I do. 3. I’ll love you forever and always. 4. I may not be your first, but I will be your last. 5. Wedding bells are ringing! 6. Spending my life with you doesn’t seem to be a bad idea at all. 7. Cheers to us! 8. Our relationship is forever. 9. You are my dream come true. 10. Newlyweds. 11. Today’s our big day. 12. ‘Til death do us part. 13. Two hearts become one. 14. You are my other half. 15. It’s time to change my last name. ### Anniversaries: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/WKcFJ_mlab0moIti8lIKF_3ABlSzWSA4tV9NNPodr7nlNSD6Cs3QjEkQXRFsntmVNmUUsxRaa9o7_8k9ubv5LmhWXOZgVLKUS9VHUxagSJJqaEo8VPL_rnGrJNCsEcz_f8UbpQEA) 1. Happy x years together, my love! 2. Cheers to x years! 3. Today, we’re celebrating another year of you tolerating me. 4. You’ve made me smile for another 365 days. 5. Thank you for another year of love and laughter. 6. Let’s grow old together. 7. I want to spend even more years with you. 8. Don’t worry. We’ve got forever to go. 9. Every moment with you has been memorable. 10. One year down. 11. Love like ours lasts for eternity. 12. My love for you will never change. 13. Celebrate another year full of love. 14. Forever yours. 15. Let’s keep at it. ### Best Friends: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/PI09dQuaVPe1P_T6VVwznX9AhvcBhJKFpddg1BIu9UgaL_L2c10-Hcm_SYahUdhuwJlURbYYCjGLRTCa_TwxDTss8qZk-YlrES6gr9EGILVYOScj3H5lWizpJvd-Ecmnv6EpLhzD) 1. Hoes before bros. 2. BFFs  3. Thanks for doing all the stupid things with me. 4. It must’ve been tough putting up with me all these years. 5. Ours is the best friendship.  6. Sister from another mother. 7. Best friends are like diamonds. They’re forever. 8. You’ve made a significant impact on my life. 9. You’re the only one who can call me out on my flaws. 10. I’ve got your back, babe. 11. I’m only one call away. 12. I’m always here for you. 13. My main gal. 14. Partners in crime. 15. Girl power. ### Birthdays: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Kogq1u6fk0vCn_Qw1c2_3D5lpZFA6e6Qq_oUJPRPsQLtTcfhRnsvmbhNL-h_bhPSF0d0NxqUa3TILU4xLCi1ac7oNLuzJI1WLkYZKWLw5fCrrWXUZTn-tRzglm3YW1h-jH-PnQJt) 1. Blessed to be given another year to live. 2. Sweeter than my birthday cake. 3. Make way for the birthday queen. 4. It’s not about age. 5. Celebrate life. Happy birthday to me! 6. I may be a year older, but I’ve still got the heart of a child. 7. One year older, but am I wiser? 8. I’m wearing my birthday crown. 9. Let’s eat cake. 10. Birthday girl. 11. Today is a special day, says Facebook. 12. Age is merely a number. 13. My birthday is complete because of you. 14. Birthday glow. 15. What should my birthday wish be? ### Graduation: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Fn1_vRhz9e65JltzTbNXdLo7a3IeA81qPIOXNoeHqnGHXQpvoFbeY74GFgl9sMfCONe5y13z1GGr_Pn1qjByr2F60wzZ5csv9_TlgtqaSSjupejfD5aL8t9ExI_IaeUSonzuaHh8) 1. I made it. 2. Congrats to me! 3. What’s next? 4. It’s time for us to spread our wings and fly. 5. It wasn’t easy at all, but it was worth it. 6. I’ve made my parents proud. 7. All the sleepless nights paid off. 8. I’m officially unemployed. 9. It’s only the beginning. 10. I’ve never imagined coming this far. 11. I’m an experience-less professional. 12. End of chapter. 13. Miracles do happen. 14. It’s just as emotional as the end of High School Musical. 15. Get a degree, check! ### Valentines: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/H5wmoukB_E_mSxJuUvRzMekwXm4_w1mbAvxrzpeHf_pOC3h-YAauqSn0XjYBPEApy3Ptg0ezZ9HsmAe0BmZeX1Lj-koBWX_Jb3qmTlWt7dlC6K2ydnYrkaLeZYCSy_eIIM3STtpu) 1. My Valentine. 2. I love you, and I like you. 3. It’s Galentine’s Day! 4. My Valentine’s date is cuter than yours. 5. Will you be my Valentine? 6. I’m the luckiest to be yours. 7. There’s nothing more special than being loved by the person you love. 8. Looking forward to more Valentine’s Day with you, boo. 9. Happy Valentine’s Day to me! 10. Spending another Valentine’s Day alone. 11. I love everything about this day. 12. You’re so sweet, like the chocolates you gave me. 13. My handsome Valentine’s date. 14. These roses are for the most beautiful flower in the world. 15. There are heart-shaped items everywhere! ### Halloween: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/d_l6fICg1hoejApl5yf5ENzkM1hD11Wpmpcb5WbhKaIex7a5uOuMsXBGEMLJmX4U7QfuL5iQ5btSctW9lycJm0RAKC-6E_4crOUV_6_S_HRoKVIRSoW6r0lHrJz2NH2GrI7ae-ju) 1. Boo! 2. Trick or treat. 3. Scary or cute? 4. I’m bootiful. 5. Spooky night. 6. Excuse me. Witch way to the boos? 7. We’re going haunting. 8. This is my resting witch face. 9. Happy Halloween! 10. Who’s got the best costume? 11. Fly that broomstick, witch. 12. Jack-o-lantern. 13. I can’t wait to pick out my costume for the next one. 14. Bugs and hisses. 15. I’m under your spell. ### Christmas: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xUZZBq_fe5OID8GmZcocciI_OaQGFWB9PrqFKBA1Uhb-hBxuoMsK640p-xAJy28A5qsB9m_SI_YcP1SCxhIjzq83Z4CzjlnE_3NP7LEVYKLHlkYNR7kzgR9AJ2RRiZnXbPIkmDvo) 1. ‘Tis the season to be jolly. 2. Have yourself a Merry little Christmas. 3. Christmas feast! 4. Happy birthday, Jesus! 5. Today, I sleigh. 6. Santa, I’ve been a good girl all year. 7. Merry Christmas from our family to yours. 8. Sleighbells ring. 9. Sweater weather. 10. White Christmas. 11. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. 12. Kiss me under the mistletoe. 13. O Holy Night. 14. The Christmas season has emptied my wallet. 15. Nothing makes me happier than Christmas lights. ### New Year’s: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/fS05tO8URISjsGP-pQQtMxBP1DDD5ILtI3b5zoiOmmixt6w1W25sN-FXpWP1RpavL6VK_f0yv02M86nWvWkQBR3DQn5tuuxmxnxK8RnqwVVGhxfO-JZSByJ6F-7KohnCPHiR5QpW) 1. New year, new look. 2. Another year full of opportunities. 3. Pop the champagne! 4. Give me a New Year’s kiss. 5. Thankful for a fruitful year. 6. Heading into the new year looking like… 7. Cheers! 8. Bigger goals for the new year 9. Page 1. 10. In with the new 11. New Year feast! 12. Glitter. 13. Let’s hope I can finally accomplish all my resolutions this year. 14. Happy New Year to all! 15. Bring it on, 2020. ### Photography: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aj6OVP662ZF-rtn856vzoDaLhB8qdAlLN3uPnJRq2Zkai-02q2Z3yPldYVYNxQkbbQXpvd8JuGak1lxjDYsmuGYyjvDUTdztMRu7R6ZxdPsjFWAs1m-gfDQCdfbWOAaqR_2rtTt3) 1. We need the negatives to develop, just like photos. 2. Pictures allow us to revisit significant moments in life. 3. Your eyes are the best cameras. 4. Photography is meant to capture more than the view. 5. “Photography is the story I fail to put into words.” -Destin Sparks 6. Photograph things that make you happy. 7. This never fails to bring a smile on my face. 8. Photos bring out more emotions than you think. 9. Reliving past experiences through pictures. 10. Photography is like a pause button in life. 11. Freeze this perfect moment. 12. Stunning visuals. ### Travel: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/HQMbpQuDgz29VmRw8B0GVFC7eI9s2pnQ-7yJuWTLedlCxedYQMEgIk9Zz87LeTS1NjBwwXD4F-0-KVNT_b8orj2EEltNMFeXvTIqBKUC7nbN5jIilHexYSwG9uKi9k_dJr4XXXJa) 1. Where to next? 2. Travel while you’re still young. 3. Goal in life: travel 4. Wanderlust 5. My happy place. 6. Explore the world while you still can. 7. Jetlags don’t matter. 8. Live life to the fullest and travel. 9. Traveling is the best medicine for boring routines. 10. May these memories last forever. 11. Travel addict. 12. Road trip. 13. Keep calm and travel on. 14. Discover what the world has to offer. 15. Guess where ### Nature: 1. Nature is the art of God. 2. Get lost in the beauty of nature. 3. Our souls need nature. 4. Be in one with nature. 5. Mother Earth and her spectacular views 6. Cabin in the woods. 7. The mountains. They call to me. 8. Get lost in nature. 9. Get out and experience nature 10. Beautiful sceneries 11. Nature is the best therapy 12. How gorgeous this world is 13. Love of nature 14. Heaven on earth. 15. Explore the wonders of the world. ### Motivational: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/dbDfSx9g_9JNR7jAev7EP85isBQS2zIB9i-cTLJz3K8ww5ZDcxDJb2EyP7P_tXkvm3mrqcUtOeAG57j7XdDU86OZAjXO1dVGZ0nYnf_bp6f7rugGG2TKQc5e_fyXBBG6Fe1MSTd5) 1. It’s free to dream. 2. Don’t let anyone define who you are. 3. Make the most out of the talents you were blessed with. 4. Fall down and get right back up. 5. Never allow anyone to take advantage of your kindness. 6. Always stand for what you believe in. 7. Anything is possible with hard work. 8. Dream big. 9. Focus on the present instead of regretting the past. 10. Do what you love. 11. Winning isn’t everything. 12. Follow your heart. 13. Learn from your past mistakes. 14. There’s a rainbow after the rain. 15. Focus on the light at the end of the tunnel. ### Girls: ![](/images/posts/inline/d1af11a8-girl-power-insta-pics-603x1024.jpg) 1. Who run the world? Girls! 2. I’m one in 7 billion. 3. Always dress to impress. 4. Girls’ night out! 5. Slay girl. 6. I’m a strong confident woman. 7. Confidently beautiful. 8. Wonder woman. 9. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. 10. Feeling fresh 11. I’m the prettiest. 12. My soul is just as beautiful. 13. It girl 14. Be both classy and beautiful. 15. I got it from my mama. ### Boys: ![](/images/posts/inline/e995c376-best-instagram-captions.jpg) 1. Always a gentleman. 2. Haters are my motivators. 3. Provider and protector 4. Suit up. 5. Hanging out with my bros. 6. Be a warrior. 7. Swag. 8. Boys will be boys. 9. No guts, no glory 10. Be a man. 11. Messy hair 12. Happy wife, happy life! 13. I’m the luckiest man. 14. Chillax 15. Bulk-up. ### Song Lyrics: This is the space to post all your favorite Drake lyrics. 1. My heart will go on. 2. You can count on me. 3. You’re beautiful. 4. When you look me in the eyes 5. Isn’t she lovely 6. Love me tender, love me sweet 7. I’m on top of the world, hey! 8. All you need is love. 9. Always be my baby 10. One less lonely girl. 11. Two is better than one. 12. Love of my life 13. Nothing’s gonna change my love for you. 14. All you need is love, love. 15. This is our house. This is our rules. 16. Here for a good time, not a long time.  ### Rap Lyrics: 1. You gotta be able to smile through the bullsh\*t 2. Life without dreaming is a life without meaning 3. I apologize even though I know it’s lies. 4. Immigrants, we get the job done. 5. Last night I saw you in my dreams, now I can’t wait to go to sleep. 6. We gonna party like it’s your birthday 7. Drop it like it’s hot. 8. To live doesn’t mean you’re alive. 9. I’m not a businessman. I’m a business, man. 10. Girl, you standin’ right here lookin’ so amazing. 11. My excuse is that I’m young. 12. Living off borrowed time, the clock tick faster. 13. Any lyric by [Young Slacker](https://youngslacker.com/) ### Summer: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ORJY2d8BCg2OvXTsVrbb0SV9SmwWZ_n_AX0Mk0ChOa0IYbE5MemOr0K0qhx6PRJNYAAEpH46ZR59UoMvDGnoiBXZpc5XRKBCI8eQwddoEsCHojpLbHRYlDl0z6IQOcQzf_frSUjt) 1. I’m just as hot as the sun. 2. Beachin’ 3. Hello, sunshine. 4. High tides and good vibes. 5. Sunkissed skin. 6. Sunshine state of mind. 7. Time to hit the beach. 8. Season of ice creams! 9. Summer vacay. 10. Ready for summer. 11. Paradise at the beach. 12. The calming sounds of the waves 13. Salty hair. 14. I want to be a mermaid. 15. By the beach with my coconut drink. ### Food: 1. Good food puts me in a good mood. 2. Comfort food. 3. Unhealthy food always tastes better. 4. I think about food all day long, every single day.  5. I love you berry much. 6. Donut worry and be happy. 7. Count only the memories not the calories. 8. Don’t be upsetti. Eat some spaghetti. 9. Pasta la vista, baby. 10. Food is fuel. 11. Nothing is better than eating good food. 12. Food tastes a lot better when it’s free. 13. I’m soy into you. 14. Homemade. 15. It’s essential to have a balanced diet.  16. Get in ma belly!  ### Coffee: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/PThGyXbSA4c76hdnQ5XHmusrj-PumzrFj87EXOqkdbAQ6Mc4qwsY-DaNUickIZWW71SD9_cDwI6qajra-vVwSoDpJZH6l_0hEgfATmsMnghxBgVaoTE2NXl7uGvWTKjeiMrsmI5y) 1. Coffee, tea, or me? 2. I couldn’t have gone this far if not for coffee. 3. Coffee flows through my veins. 4. It’s coffee o’clock! 5. Always start your day with a cup of coffee. 6. The smell of coffee gravitates me towards it. 7. I’m a caffeine freak. 8. Caffeine rush! 9. Waking up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee is the best sensation. 10. I need coffee to function. 11. Coffee, coffee, coffee! 12. Resting coffee face. 13. I’ll be taking my coffee break, thank you. 14. Caffeine queen 15. Coffee keeps the mind working. ### Gym: ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/KZK6SUqYzwr9BrRCIwnPYasTPRvWwEFU8J_oGIyjSJQEci8tHLwGbNJzI7Qy77UXbhLVQA5klJd3i6G9_tSTLB1-DcI3WrLpqdbiYlPgmBwQQC0Y5z_Yy95kofTr2YmFXuE1TSy8) 1. Hustle. 2. Workout to make yourself feel good about your body. 3. Gym buddies! 4. Never quit. 5. You can do it! 6. Train like a beast. 7. Leg day. 8. Every day is abs day. 9. Keep yourself fit and exercise. 10. Results don’t show after one session. 11. Keep at it. 12. Glow up. 13. Sweat is the tears your fats cry. 14. Build your muscles. 15. Sweat like there’s no tomorrow. 16. Suns out, guns out.  ### Dogs: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/3tjcB4xj0HJmz9IG-u_ztRQiLZTeYmE_IiJTtAjGCwqUr3QkFw87gkvvfKKKDjEP5A6p_AEHfwgGhCRcrgoeHd_mJzKgRBcOglD6YNxsbMwtlgH7IQblckXHFzELKnuQptUymk6T) 1. Who let the dogs out? 2. Dogs are man’s best friend. 3. I will always woof you. 4. No one adores me more than my dog. 5. My furry best friend. 6. I wish dogs could talk. 7. Our friendship is fur real. 8. My loyal pet companion. 9. Woof! Woof! 10. Men don’t deserve dogs. 11. Dogs have shown me the true meaning of loyalty. 12. You can see their emotions through their eyes. 13. My furry therapist. 14. The love I have for my dog is immeasurable. 15. I’ll see you in heaven, my furry best friend. ### Cats: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/o41cHAWio7lnc8g62HjJS3HrD9eTN4pEJhw_VrWtGAPI1xdccgGHDIZIvJ-zyUCl_noBH9fsmCZqgzM6SPtVyCKvZ03Bm6NBOW6cfpEgakRAIp5KrK96t8f9_6jEhz_wjnhZs9by) 1. Stop it with your cattitude. 2. Meow. 3. Purr all day, every day. 4. I’ve got cat scratches everywhere. 5. You’re purrfect. 6. I’m feline happy today. 7. Cats make our lives whole. 8. My smitten kitten. 9. Some angels have whiskers instead of wings. 10. My cat can’t be bothered. 11. If only cats lived as long as humans. 12. Let’s spend all your nine lives together. 13. Crazy cat lady. ### One-Word Caption: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6oMX3VvTjJlTYF2FDo2Om_kRkYnmZ9p3SOvLW9Lnb7Lk7F2trbeFz6el2CpQ3tGiHkrm_S6XwGZw0w7z34f0XN-j7mFDmNIKlURhgDCdPSjdTSmh-FAlyPCj6yaT5wXWbMuj7Ze5) 1. Exploring 2. Happy 3. Relax 4. Love 5. Glam 6. Wise 7. Handsome 8. Life 9. Us 10. OMG! 11. Awkward 12. Surprise! 13. YOLO 14. Breathtaking 15. Smile ### Happy: 1. Fill your mind with happy thoughts. 2. Happiness is doing what you love. 3. Eternal bliss. 4. Live life to the fullest. 5. Live. Laugh. Love 6. It’s the little things in life that count. 7. I’m feelin’ good. 8. Everyone deserves to be happy. 9. Laughter is the best medicine. 10. Everything becomes easier once you smile. 11. Best day ever! 12. T.G.I.F. 13. Freedom equals happiness. 14. Time to partaaay 15. In paradise. ### Sad: ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/RSSc2Roh8AGMyimViLXMejv3SqnLUWdo52dpfoUsUfahB55XfpP21SPXFyPUMjFO3fv60y1CQjZyYt5S94HP4JeOjwfuVA4k-nvcmkB9QiUOuj_vxM6vRWPm1PtCeH65bW6wwMbp) 1. My loneliness is killing me. 2. Being lonely is better than being in pain. 3. Emptiness 4. Deafening silence 5. Drowning in the darkness. 6. A rollercoaster ride of emotions. 7. All the tears obstruct my vision. 8. Where there are positives, there are also negatives. 9. Sometimes I feel sad for no particular reason. 10. There are days that you just want to cry. 11. I’m a big blob of sadness. 12. What is the meaning of life? ### Sassy: ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L1-LSUlnqWHT0QZIwo3gYwOGrJxOwIUicxZ-5yxcGvD3m6shilRAD2H8ydTqnXt8llaWP9Tr3usk5z4hUHuCHKKAwMcKklXHo3Nic45rFRjRTDc6fgKm_cMZnv3A7Pq-Un3Z0GS7) 1. Looks may not be everything, but I have it just in case. 2. I’m sassy yet classy but never trashy. 3. It isn’t the well-behaved people that get written into history books. 4. Be a queen regent instead of depending on a king. 5. Be a bit selfish sometimes and do what you want. 6. Be you. Don’t depend on what others think about you. 7. Life is a b\*tch sometimes. Deal with it. 8. Act like you don’t care. 9. I decide the vibe. 10. I’ve got pretty high standards. 11. Everything that you do, I can do better. 12. Thank you, but no. 13. I’m a sinner, you say. Well, aren’t we all? 14. I wasn’t born to make you feel good about yourself. 15. Never settle for less. ### Clever: 1. One day or day one. You pick. 2. Never search for happiness in the exact place you lost it. 3. Nobody gets out of life alive. 4. It’s Monday. It will be Friday soon. 5. Don’t try to fit in. Strive to stand out. 6. Some storms come into your life to clear your path, not to destroy it. 7. On top of being a daydreamer, I’m a night thinker as well. 8. Your past may be carved on stone, but your end surely isn’t. 9. Stop wasting your time looking back at your past. 10. Have courage and be a soft-hearted person in this vicious world. 11. My dream is to die young, but as late as possible. 12. Life is a reality to be experienced, not a problem to be solved. 13. Persevere, the weekend is near! ### Funny: 1. If only we could have two six-month holidays annually. 2. Namast’ay in the bed today. 3. Everyone is born a tad crazy, but some people more than others. 4. Selfie. The best one out of 50 takes. 5. Can’t it be Sunday all week long? 6. Smile like you actually know what’s going on. 7. He said I was his type. Next thing I knew, I was donating blood. 8. My brain says go but my body says no. 9. I don’t make mistakes twice. I do it a lot more. 10. Stop trying to make me work. I’m on energy-saving mode. 11. When nothing in life goes right, take a left. 12. Of course, I do marathons. Does Netflix count? 13. It’s okay to follow your heart, just don’t forget to bring your brain along. 14. Sleep is for the weak. 15. Being normal is boring. ### Cute: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/a5w3h9F3LcY0WP1Tt50oh7OzCde-JR1bc9hLEQdevzMBxVVa21eiJKFrIPpAFQQiE2H9YihdYdf26LDvaMNz-_HBXz9gvDRYUw9iXySbnuMdbDoTitdIiMbITC6_31y41nDVM1Gc) 1. Dream big, little one. 2. I’ve got all I’ve ever wanted right here. 3. You’ve given me a reason to smile again. 4. Partners bring out the best in each other. 5. You are an angel. 6. Everything small is cute. You’re cute. 7. Words cannot express how much I love you. 8. Mommy always has your back. 9. I wonder how I was able to live before I met you. 10. My life is full. 11. I caught a glimpse of heaven in your eyes. 12. You found me in the darkness. 13. You pulled me back into the light. 14. Go out and dance in the rain. 15. Reminisce how easy life was in our childhood. Related: [Learn how Instagram makes money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-instagram-make-money/) ## Bottom line These are all sample IG captions that people have used countless times before, and you can do the same.  However, if you want to be original or unique, you can create one on your own. You may also rephrase these sentences into your own words, and add some more of your personality into it.  Just always remember that it would have a more significant impact if you place captions that correctly represent who you are or how you are feeling.  Like this post? Read about topics similar to this one here: - [How to get more snapchat followers and make money](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-snapchat-followers-make-money/) - [How to get verified on Instagram for free](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-get-verified-on-instagram/) - [Spice up your brand with a unique personality](https://flux.la/spice-up-your-brand-with-a-unique-personality/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 The 2026 Instagram reality: **Reels are the discovery primitive**, Stories carry retention, Feed is for credentialing. The "hidden likes" toggle is still in account settings (Privacy → Posts) — Meta has kept it. Verification flipped to the **Meta Verified subscription** in early 2024 (~$14.99/mo on iOS/Android in the US), so any post still saying "free blue tick" is outdated. The contact-Instagram-support flow is markedly better now: in-app **Help → Report a problem** routes most issues to a real human within ~48h for Meta Verified accounts. ~2.4B MAU as of Meta's Q4 2025 disclosure. If you're trying to grow in 2026, the share of organic reach coming from Reels vs. Feed is roughly:
Reels
~78%
Feed
~14%
Stories
~8%
_Directional, based on creator-tool analytics published by Later + Buffer in late 2025. Optimize accordingly._ --- ## How To Change Your Facebook Page Name Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/change-facebook-page-name/ Published: 2020-02-09 Updated: 2024-05-27 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: - Length—even though you can use 75 characters on Facebook, which can be up to 10 words depending on the length, my advice is to not use them all. Did you make your Facebook page a while ago when you hadn’t a clear idea what your business was about?  Many people have the impression that once they choose their page name it’s something they should be stuck with forever.  After all, you spent a lot of effort [building trust in your brand](https://flux.la/how-to-build-trust-in-brand/) and changing your page name might confuse your followers and lose your hard-earned brand equity.  But changing brand names happens more often than you’d think.  In the past, it was impossible to change the name of your Facebook page.  Luckily, Facebook updated its policy and now changing the name of your FB page can be done in a few steps that I will explain today.  Changing the name of your Facebook page is an **easy process** from a technical perspective, and it won’t hurt your reputation either as long as it’s done properly.  Note that changing the name of a [verified Facebook page](https://alejandrorioja.com/get-facebook-verified/) will likely need to go through more reviews from Facebook to ensure that you didn’t just buy a page and changed the name, but rather is a business you own and rebranded (like when [Brad’s Drinks became Pepsi Co](https://www.cnbc.com/2015/05/26/19-famous-companies-that-originally-had-different-names.html).)  # Step 1: The “Edit” Option The first step that you need to take is going to the page and choosing the “About” section on the left side.  *Note that you have to be an admin to make changes of this type.* Once you’re in the “About” section, click the “Edit” button displayed next to your page’s current name.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/SJ5JdnseurqPxLu227t-6dVoUBRh6LDv5SYRu1Dg04Hm3YDsXScLVBww2PilNWz4ezT5e6Wlag3p6CDYqqR5vdeJoLf4TIWSOVi4ngqOf_Txwe3FL-bKGmG3HZBdXOn34mu4ExyX) # Step 2: Come up with a new name Once you click the “Edit” button, a new window will pop up looking like this: ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/CFQBljXaWyfK6VlY7bLQytfTZE7NpZWDZ3hP3glXC0fzFCCH37lZ40GZpPN_Bhsyev6k6NJ-fbY0mC3iR7TqPuPKejrytQ9vpDLzAFLfWQroVKYYQ_HWzZbH5IznZq4lk4t7SLny) As you can see, there are some Do’s and Don’t suggested by Facebook, and you have 75 characters for a new name. ### How to choose a good name? When it comes to [choosing a good name](https://blog.fptraffic.com/how-to-choose-a-facebook-page-name/) for your Facebook page, the processes differ depending on the type of the page that you are creating.  If you are thinking about creating a page for business purposes, try the following tips: - **Simplicity**— the title of the page is not the right place to get creative and talkative. Make sure that you put the name of your business so your page is easily found. Get inside the brain of your customers and try to think about how they will search for your business.  - **Length**—even though you can use 75 characters on Facebook, which can be up to 10 words depending on the length, my advice is to not use them all. Try to limit the name to a few words at best, because otherwise, your page might appear like spam. - **Specificity**— the best thing to do is to avoid terms that are too generic and don’t distinguish your business from the general term. For example, “Digital Marketing”, “Sports”, “Cooking”, are bad names. They can mean anything. Also, Facebook is not allowing updates for pages like these because they want more authenticity. Try to use a specific name that is both short and simple. (like [my company Flux Chargers](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-build-profitable-business/))  When you’re in this phase, make sure that you listen to your customers.  Do [keyword research](https://alejandrorioja.com/keyword-research/) on how they are searching for you, is it by the full name, is it maybe a shortcut, etc. When it comes to Facebook, it is better to use spaces in your name because people search for things on Facebook as they do on Google. On the other hand, when it comes to [Twitter](https://alejandrorioja.com/twitter-scripts/), names are best written altogether. You can also use [Google Trends](https://trends.google.com/trends/?geo=US) to see if adding Paleo or Vegan to your name could help with impressions.  # Step 3: Submit the name Once you click “Continue” the following window will appear. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/PFPMVBJdgci6Du9ePuXDbl9hR6M0iAaWQ4ITlf5yQzhnPgLfdgfO1RXuBD7gPtiYVN3yxY9UbFobhmqhUcpcdG0OUc3a1nOU7rPRH17CIq1_hBRrd8trzyf_FqmxFjQWA6rrXVk3) **How long does it take to change your Facebook page name?** The review process might take up to three days and Facebook might contact you for further information. If you are sure about your new chosen name, go ahead and press the “Request Change” button. After you do that, you’ll receive this notification window that lets you know that the review process has started.  ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/u8P5rvx_3i_k4yu_hq8KaCYMswWNiXHfgLp4WG1t2yysNxIaMea5Ad5TxHxGXeOQ-u0VvqxWp-ursPBsmboS76uvi5DL3eqx_hm7KbIkQfSDVfPj4Tokjr9sRyQCGW4xza0VU1JH) Usually, these things go quite fast especially when the request has been denied. Anyway, in the span of a maximum of three days, you will know the outcome of the name change request. # Denied request If you are requesting to change your name to a new one that is completely different from the original, the likelihood of your request being denied is extremely high.  The reason behind this is that Facebook flags this as against the Page guidelines. What this means basically is that they perceive your new name as misleading since it’s so drastically different from the first one.  In the explanation from Facebook about why they denied your request they give an example:  “*Page name change requests that don’t meet our guidelines include changes that may be misleading (example: renaming “I Love New York” to “I Love San Francisco”). Requests that meet our guidelines include removing descriptions from a Page’s name (example: renaming “John Smith, Trainer” to “John Smith”)*.” One way to go about this is to send an Appeal to Facebook. ![](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ChI2xuufGfhGxcbvA1wH-9aPq_971BG65UZrnThraK3ID-e1vEr_gbSWQcgHnlsam6jNo6Ydtx1ScwmSkTBrfyehdRj0UhmaWt8Yh5WA4ihNg88lsnT7PVv43GQLdgEel0oUsD27) However, it looks like many people are getting the same explanation of why their requests were denied.  So, the chances of this working are also not very good. Now, I am aware that this can be quite frustrating and stressful, and that is why I will share a bit of a time-consuming trick to go around these Facebook guidelines and have the name that you want. ### How to change your Facebook name if it gets denied A handy trick to rename your page is changing it word-by-word.  So for example, let’s assume that the current name of my page is *Alejandro Rioja Blog* and I want to change it into *Best Growth Guides.*  What I would do is go and request the changes word by word (you can let a few weeks pass in between each change): - Alejandro Rioja Blog Guides - Alejandro Rioja Blog Growth Guides - Alejandro Rioja Growth Guides - Rioja Growth Guides - Best Rioja Growth Guides - Best Growth Guides Make sure that you combine the words in a way that is not too weird standing alone.  All of these could potentially be names of my page on their own.  You can also try to add two words at a time or add one take one out, but the chances of denial are higher. I am aware that this is not an ideal way to change a simple name, but it might be what you have to do in order to make the change.  Keep in mind that you are allowed to make one change per 24 hours, or sometimes in 2-3 days. This means that this process of changing the name might take you anywhere from a few days to more than a week or two.  All of this depends on how drastic the name change is. If you need just one or two words exchanged, you’ll be done in a few days. Btw, if you are curious about my best growth guides, they are [here](https://alejandrorioja.com/best-articles/)!  ### How to see if a page changed its name? You can head to the Page Transparency section on the right hand side on any page, then click to see more info about any name changes.  ![](/images/posts/inline/49a1e581-page-transparency-facebook-1024x553.png) Then click on See More and then on Page History. ![](/images/posts/inline/842dce73-page-history-1024x517.png) ## Bottom line Changing your Facebook page is doable.  If you are a big brand and have documentation to show Facebook that you changed your name, they will likely accept it.  If not, then you can try changing your name and wait to hear back in 3 days.  If you get denied, try changing your page name one word at the time. This usually works.  — Found this post helpful? Read some of my other posts with tips and tricks: - [My best productivity tips](https://alejandrorioja.com/productivity-tips/) - [11 simple on-page SEO tips to rank first on Google](https://alejandrorioja.com/on-page-seo/) - [3 Psychology Tricks You Should Implement in Your Marketing Strategy](https://alejandrorioja.com/psychology-tricks-marketing-strategy/) **Comment below** what kind of tips and tricks you want to read next on my blog. --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## How to Do a Reverse Image Search on Google, Facebook, and Pinterest Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/reverse-image-search-on-google-facebook-pinterest/ Published: 2020-02-07 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing, SEO TL;DR: We have start this tutorial by covering the largest search engine of all… You can also find the image you are looking for using Google’s image search engine. ## Table of contents With all this technology, we are used to having all the information on hand. That is why, a lot of the times we are digitally “stalking” people from an array of different reasons. And sometimes, we don’t have all the information necessary to find the people we are looking for on Facebook or we don’t know what a particular picture represents (such as a picture of a place) Maybe you just want to put a face behind the person who will be interviewing you tomorrow, or maybe you are looking for your old friend that apparently has a new Facebook profile. Perhaps you were reading this cool blog and you saw an interesting image and you want to find out where it comes from.. The reason is not so important, what’s important is if you have an image of the person or a thing you’re trying to find, then it can be done. If you want to find out **how to do a reverse image search**, keep reading as I explain the process step by step. We have start this tutorial by covering the largest search engine of all… ## Reverse image search using Google You can also find the image you are looking for using Google’s image search engine.  *Related:* [*how does Google make money?*](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-google-make-money/) This is considered to be one of the easiest ways to find an image that you’re interested in, and chances are you have been in contact with this process before. For those of you who really haven’t, what you want to do is go on the image that you want to know more data about and right click it. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/df8lARpZ9o3AyzlYblR5Myd36FApGq1ymqN4-LXFUcrMYuWV8oUm0jeT1iPEkZ4c3PcpjgLrCu0FJqfXgblrpeyFP7dZ0vCxaWc3HjyD1Af1gfqL6VjrWphxtfdIHNErYt3YY9ad) ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Weh5k127vJSV66dXy77xAc9ecx9Fdzd4jgBF4uZHCbV2uHv2v2aiHQKW0lXvAf-6WsuyzmyhLrppC8p-DxaAsgPzd8vHhljPkufbHwSeYKpAZpkG9yQ9HMQgToF7HZZZ_ECw5o39) Click the “Search Google for image” option and another window will open giving you information on the image you selected. As you can see, Google told us plenty of information about the searched image. It found the exact location of the image, what else people search for related to this, and visually similar images. If you scroll further down, you can see the websites that used this particular image in their posts. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CPlj_pN_Yy3VwYDblOiMKC8MHyEjBlgfTIc1Ysk8bnhMUK5Htg-ppi5vmU-uu_myaMVJQynVJ8s1BHpv41c33bIDt432qBu0QVlEy7dekOy2aGGFbGJGsZIoF4XeIsWoRxXT9SW3) Sometimes data like this can be of extreme importance when it comes to a certain image, depending on the reason. Another way you can do this is the following: - Go to [https://images.google.com/](https://images.google.com/) - Click the camera icon ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/B1zWESctKkqlAIGfqJC9jwFS2EjAepFMvDu4OUEN2G66sf_h5N1CnPsMiGCGcZXJp98vN3tr6bY7iOHIZG2X-xCk3PrTyg2jqL3InEuXoGZPW4dkGJQMgdQVrZHXayQtsz_xZa2J) -  Paste the URL of the image in the box ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/U5UQQ4ER5wQDnUytiSoEv0-BqCXjqhqejE-7NDm2WfCGpXuOYb94_81ocXcvzur1rmmlPWnP54X-xCQ8IlK_2_TbsdvanxomdOP0VK1l039qrJg3mqJlajhY6p2ZqGRPEM5sYokK) -  If you have the image in your computer, then go to the “Upload an image” section and upload it from your device - As soon as the image is uploaded, Google will show you the results ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kU6OLQ1R3cm9IHkU9jkjcEnvOVgVnee6W_sSeH__VbifmGMGPv23pxbflqrFssIhv-kDGCm3gPIEBpzctu-IoT61cwV-hNMZ4HTcSB2A0czFq_gAdsmnNCf6GjViiTY0M8tXXIKL) If you want to get more customized results, you can go a step further and change the Search keyword to something else. For example, if you want to get the image results only from Facebook.com and not from other sites on the internet, you should change the keyword to site:facebook.com, and Google will work its magic. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mSqaXKNhvhsHHzLhWpM-1XQegj-nS8P_S8rjNzpk9GgRAD3TMUoOgo_38OB1QNxK48CYfSDN7KgiCfFRR2u5d4iKhhb6C3_mNnkGqOqp98U39mzZAOfI1PprZYcLOuhp2krTe83H) ## Facebook Image search and how does it work Facebook Image Search is simply a method by which images posted by Facebook users can be found through a specific image ID. As we are all aware, Facebook is a huge platform in this day and age with more than two billion Facebook users. (Learn [how they make money](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/)) Every single image that is posted by those 2 billion users and that is an estimate of 200 million photos every single day, has a unique image ID. If you want to find out more about some particular picture, its location, or other data you first need to find out the unique image ID of that image. ### 1\. See if the image is from Facebook In order to perform a reverse image search on Facebook, you first need to find out if the image is posted on Facebook in the first place. This can be done in the following way. Once you find the image that you want to dig deeper into, right click it and press “*Open image in new tab*.” ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/OTTue_vAW91CsXCGYw3Rj9hqzm_6ocwA4fwJgABBdZiEnBUYG560kqs52L1toZKSOiPPE1c659mIKhOaCxQ1nGZBF2Uj-_bFN1Ll6iCu7htJHIXJOkoMjEts64qD-MRUEB1KAXEA) This is valid for Google Chrome. If you have other browsers the name of the option may vary, but in general it should mean the same. Look into the top left corner to see if the image is actually coming from Facebook. ![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XCVxTzckH80TMkiUcWiGAVh1cWRkRQv3ff9f9C6jAE05EHaNNDQ6WVtZQUM1IC_EtwUyPc71p5_apdgfJM2GEllDLGRgbR6QuTu7AOC4OErALn4Agg2X4u3798k8zVLLCPUE3fD) If it has the “FBcdn” there, the original image is posted on the Facebook platform. ### 2\. Look for the ID number Like every person, every image posted on Facebook has a unique ID number. This number is unique for every single picture and it is very important in this reverse image search process. ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_jI9tLhrRpAWarK7yxGakonxMGA_7OqweGASBeuyBrierYRNpnoZ3Klw3cMJTj2YuI5wAPhhPcwzHChwnvjas-BHn4_onGVgFBenxeazgz3fgLt2c-wj4ouBsaXGsjCQRY_RKepG) To find the image ID number, look into the link and find the numbers in between the two underscores, or the second series of numbers. In this case those numbers are 3168730543151388. This is the unique ID number of this particular Facebook image. ### 3\. Search for the image   Once you discover the unique number of the image, paste or type the following link into your search box **https*****://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=****.* Next, add the image ID after the = sign on the link above, so it looks like this: ***https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=587639955405406*** Once you have this, it’s time to find the image you’re looking for on Facebook. Type the link into your browsers’ search box and voila! ## Privacy Settings Even though this is likely to work, if the person or a page on which the picture is has limited privacy setting it can prevent you from accessing it. The image has to be public and the owner has to not have blocked your account in order for it to be visible. If the settings of the profile are set to “Friends” or “Friends of Friends” you won’t be able to find it. In case you can’t access the image this way, don’t worry since there are some other things that you can do. ## Other ways to Image Search Except the most well-known ways to reverse search an image, there are some other ways as well: ### TinEye [TinEye](https://tineye.com/) is a reverse image search website that works on a similar mechanism as Google. It is very easy to use, and it will show you where your specific picture appears on the internet. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xyCZKNOXgfBkVKTpmm7ALtiJ76RpDRh7tNevNtH7QjMikQwn_78SsaIWtUaURBHAk_2q8IaNPLvFYhNOJddYrF8Pc-DlAnUrLr7oaS6ZDvakGmGG5HZN-V3yW1ucVMTAS4iUYRTC) You can either upload an image or paste an URL link. ![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/QBczWw7aNoBvpU8DdJqUUC6NXlkq1NYAsibqJ_RdAkMnAOV7uspp0nxBy9B8YngllN-mn3xgYiRHlTg0cARbk_N2O9Ot27mm3AQlFTG688f8BdzGAqd_JxYy670-H7ng2RQR8C5n) Once you upload your image or paste the URL, TinEye will let you know where exactly the image appears on the internet and how many images it searched for it. A [TinEye Chrome Extension](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/tineye-reverse-image-sear/haebnnbpedcbhciplfhjjkbafijpncjl?hl=en) is also available if you are in need of faster reverse image searches. Other extensions that it has are for Firefox and Safari. If you have it, the only thing you need to do is just right-click the image and search it through TinEye. Per the claims of TinEye, they were the first website that uses image identification technology. Many formats are supported like JPEG, PNG, GIF and the size is up to 20 MB.  Many people use it to look for illegal use of copyrighted images which makes it very valuable and useful. If you find other blogs using your images without permission, you can message them to take them down or just give you credit with a link (and [build an easy backlink](https://alejandrorioja.com/link-building-techniques/)!)  ### Pinterest Considering the fact that Pinterest is an image based platform, it is not surprising to know that they have a huge database of images. Moreover, Pinterest’s database is user-created since users upload pins, so this can be potentially a very good source if you are looking for something in particular. The process is very easy, all you need to do is: - Have an account and log into it - Choose the image you’re interested - Find the icon in the corner on the right bottom corner and click it ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qw0XIjfYlHZsOYN4q0x0BLuBeptWPag0dzFEP4iUz7ejYfOxt4GBe2Efp7AL1ttLCFVKIskmpMUUuHCCNqMUaJECT2DelbeQQEHzSsc7QlhtpGnc1TlcVpXeckh9g1IFfzdOtOm9) Pinterest will automatically show you related images to the one that you’ve chosen. The [special power of Pinterest](https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/google-pinterest-image-search/3816317.html) is that it lets you zoom in a specific image and drag the zoom tool over a chosen part of the image and search only for that particular part! ### Bing Image Match I am aware that not many people use Bing, at least compared to Google. However, Bing does have their reverse photo search tool called Bing Image Match. Here, you are also given the opportunity to either upload an image or copy the link and the engine will display matching search results. The only downfall is that the results won’t be as good as if you’re using Google or TinEye. ## Bottom line Today you learned how to do a reverse image search on your favorite platfoms (Google, Facebook, Pinterest, Tineye and even Bing). If you liked this article and you are interested in more Facebook related posts, check these: - [How does Facebook make money?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-does-facebook-make-money/) - [Learn how to download Facebook videos to your computer](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-download-facebook-videos/) - [How to cancel all pending friend requests on Facebook?](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-cancel-all-pending-friend-requests-on-facebook/) Leave a comment letting me know what other “How to” post you want me to write next! --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ ## Updated for May 2026 A few things have shifted since this post first went up. **Meta dropped the legacy "Page" verification track in 2024** and folded it into **Meta Verified** ($14.99–$19.99/mo depending on tier and country) — the blue check is now a subscription, not a one-time review. Friend-request flows still work as described, though Meta moved the bulk-cancel UI deeper into mobile settings; the desktop `m.facebook.com/friends/center/requests/outgoing` route still works (2026-04 spot check). Worth knowing in 2026: ~3.07B Facebook MAU (Meta Q4 2025 earnings), but the share of *time-on-platform* relative to Reels and WhatsApp has continued sliding. If this post is part of an outreach strategy, weight WhatsApp and Threads (yes — Threads survived the 2024 pivot speculation and crossed 200M MAU) accordingly. --- ## The Evolution and History of Blogging Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/history-of-blogging/ Published: 2020-01-07 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Marketing TL;DR: Here’s a short history of how blogging has evolved (especially WordPress blogs) and changed into what it is today. The very first blog (Links.net) can be traced to the year 1994, created by Justin Hall, a US freelance journalist. ## Table of contents Blogs have been integrated into all cultures today and are accessible from any part of the world. They have become such an integral part of our societies such that almost everyone reads blogs. Whether you are looking for weather forecasts or [digital marketing](https://alejandrorioja.com), blogs have got you covered. From their initial inception until today they have evolved and are expected to continue changing in the future. What we consider a blog today is not what was not the same ten years ago. Blogs, just like [SEO](https://alejandrorioja.com/what-is-seo/), continue evolving. Here’s a short history of how blogging has evolved (especially WordPress blogs) and changed into what it is today. ## 1994 – 1999 The Early Ages of Blogging The very first blog (Links.net) can be traced to the year 1994, created by Justin Hall, a US freelance journalist. During this time he was a student at Swarthmore University and the content he created was not referred to as a blog. It was just listed as a personal homepage. **When was the word “blog”** **first used?** The next milestone taken towards the invention of blogs occurred in 1997. The word ‘weblog’ [was invented on December 17, 1997](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blog) by Jorn Barger who also invented his own blog labeled Robot Wisdom. The name was believed to have been derived from the act of logging the web during browsing hence web+log. The Charlotte Observer posted a blog on their news website during the same year. The journalist behind this was Jonathan Dube who covered the tragic Hurricane Bonnie. In 1999, the word blog came to life. Peter Merholz a programmer rebranded the term ‘weblog’ to ‘blog’. Later on, approximately after five years, the term blog, was declared the word of the year by Merriam-Webster.  Blogs at this time were difficult to upload as it had to be done manually and they were linked to the homepage unless one had a programmer to invent custom blogging platforms. There were no blogging platforms as there are today to support such content sharing. Several blogging platforms later came up. LiveJournal was amongst the first platforms to gain popularity. Blogger later emerged into the blogging industry. It was invented by Evan Williams and supported so many blogging websites in the year 1999. ## 2000 – 2004 Growth Stage The year 2000 marked the beginning of the growth stage for blogging. A total of 23 blogs were listed on the internet. This later grew to 50 million by 2006. Listing this as an exponential growth in the industry is quite an understatement. The political based blogs were among the earliest blogs invented. Politicians such as Howard Dean and Wesley Clark, were amongst the first to use blogs. One major event that increased blogging popularity was in 2001, when the comments US Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott made in regards to the then senator Strom Thurmond. He had given rather controversial statements claiming US would be in a better place if Thurmond had been elected President back in the year 1948. This sparked up so much conversation and bloggers broke the internet with the story. In 2001, blogging hit a new level when several other types of blogs came up, such as how to guides. Meta blogs also became popular during this era. The most popular blogs during this time were Boing Boing, Gizmodo, Huffington Post and Gawker. 2003 saw the invention of Weblogs Inc. which was invented by Jason Calacanis. It was later sold off for a staggering $25 million, this sale made people realise blogs were becoming a force to reckon with. Alejandro’s beloved WordPress was launched in 2003, the developments however had began in the year 2001. In the early 2000’s, several other peripheral services for blogging were established, such as Technorati which was a search engine for blogs. Audio Blogger was released in 2003, it was the very first podcasting service. In 2004, video blogs emerged. This was 12 months before YouTube came into the scene. Adsense was also launched around the same time, making it the first ad network. Bloggers were able to make money from advertisements on their platforms using Adsense. The establishment of sources of income from blogs, skyrocketed the use of meta blogs. Darren Rowse and John Chow, made lump sums of money just by training people on how to make money from blogs. The institutions they used to teach people are [Problogger.net](http://problogger.net/) and Digital-Photography School. ## 2005 -2010  Blogs Reach the Mainstream The late 2000’s was when blogs reached the mainstream. Statistics indicated that on 2005, 32 million Americans were regular blog readers. 2005, was also the year when the very first blogger Garret M. Graff was granted the press credentials for White House. Several media websites now owned blogs and had full story coverage with online commentary options. By the end of 2010 there over 152 million active blogs online. Major media sites such as CNN partnered with other established blogs rather than creating their own. By the end of this year almost all major companies and media sources had their own blogs. ## The Rise of Microblogs and Tumblogs Tumblogs often referred to as microblogs were established too within this era. These are smaller blogging platforms with the social media additional features. One great example of a tumblog is Tumblr which was established in 2007. The platform allowed bloggers to create short posts with images, videos and later gifs.  Users were able to visit blog based on the subjects they posted on, comment of posts and also reblog content that appealed to them. Tumblr is still in existence today with over 30 million monthly active users. The second major tumblog that was not  popular as Tumblr is Posterous. It was released in the year 2008 it allowed bloggers to post content through email or via the online editors. This app is listed as both a blogging and lifestream platform.  ## 2010 – 2020 Where Blogging is Today Ten years ago blogs were the only source of content and communication for internet users. With the increase of social media use, social networking has emerged as a popular source of information. In 2012, Medium was established as a new platform by Evan Williams and Pyra Labs. Today it has evolved into a great blogging platform where users can publish their own content.  This platform however blurs the thin line between news reporting sites and blogging. Their policy however describes their platform as a centre where news are reimagined right from the people creating and living through it. Major developments in the blogging industry have taken place especially within the major blogging platform WordPress. Only a few months ago, late 2017, they ruled out the use of the TLD .blog and bloggers would have to apply for the domain and pay renewal fees. *Related: [How to do SEO for your WordPress blog](https://alejandrorioja.com/wordpress-seo-tips/)*  ## What Does The Future Hold? We have definitely come a long way from blogging inception in 1994. The future though uncertain looks promising. I personally can’t wait to see what happens next within this industry. What we know for sure is that the job titles around the blogging industry will for sure increase. Currently, almost every company has at least one employed or outsourced blogger who creates relevant content for their brand. We can also for-see the establishment of blogging as a strong marketing channel. Currently there are over 3 billion people on the world using the internet, 75% of them are reading or posting blogs. What a great market for goods and products! *Related: [How to sell your products online](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell/)* However, nothing is certain what we can only make are assumptions and our own predictions about the industry. After reading through several articles about the future of blogging and doing my own personal research I can only derive at the fact that readers will need more transparency and authenticity from their preferred bloggers. False advertising and fake reviews have in the recent past lead to several frustrated consumers. This is bound to increase the demand for more transparency and factual reviews on blogs. Well, just because someone posted  a picture with a teeth whitening device next to their crystal white teeth matched up with a bunch of words of how the device worked won’t ascertain sales as it did in the past. Readers will source out for the traditional blogger who shares experiences rather than stories. In the early days of the platform, blogging increased the lead flow up of brands online by 700%. It is also the year when internet users spent 3x more time on blogs than on email. On average based on the best case study people read 10 blogs per day claims [WordPress hosting](https://websitebuilder.org/resources/blogging/). A lot more is expected in the future of blogging, let’s sit back, relax and watch this space. Here is an infographic about the history of blogging: ![](/images/posts/inline/1a78d85a-history-of-blogging-infographic.png) What do you think will happen to the blogging industry in the next 5-10 years? Drop a comment below! If you liked this article, check out: - [How to increase your Alexa ranking](https://alejandrorioja.com/increase-alexa-rank/) - [Why you still aren’t on first page of Google and how to fix that](https://alejandrorioja.com/seo-tips/) - [Mobile SEO mistakes you might be making](https://alejandrorioja.com/mobile-seo-mistakes/) - How to make money blogging with [the best Adsense keywords](https://alejandrorioja.com/high-cpc-adsense-keywords/) --- _This guide is part of [alejandrorioja.com](/) — written by [Alejandro Rioja](/about/), who now builds [AI agent systems for founders](/services/#agent). Including the agent that keeps this site current. [How it works →](/agentic/)_ --- ## What Flux Ventures was: Dreams and Plans (2016 memoir) Source: https://alejandrorioja.com/flux-ventures/ Published: 2016-11-17 Updated: 2026-05-28 Tags: Business, home TL;DR: Written in 2016. Preserved as a historical memoir — Flux Ventures is no longer operational. Today I run Pickleland and build AI agent systems. ## Table of contents **[2026 note]** Flux Ventures is no longer operational. This post is preserved as a 2016 memoir — the vision, the brands, the energy of a 22-year-old founder. If you're reading it now in 2026, the operating focus has shifted to [Pickleland](https://pickleland.com) (an indoor pickleball facility I opened in Pflugerville) and the [AI agent systems](/services/) I build for founders. The historical record below stands as written. ![flux logo banner](/images/posts/inline/9d3f0605-flux-logo-banner-300x300.png) *Written circa 2016.* A lot of people have been asking me what Flux Ventures is, what the plans for the future are and what I envision Flux Ventures to become. I decided to write this blog post to answer these questions and hope that this serves as a memoir when Flux Ventures starts trading on the NASDAQ within the next ten years (ticker: FLXV). ## **A little bit of history about Flux Ventures, LLC.** Flux Ventures was envisioned to emulate the [Virgin Group](https://www.virgin.com/). I am a big fan of what [Richard Branson](https://www.everipedia.com/Richard_Branson/) has done with the Virgin brand and I want to follow his footsteps. > *Flux Ventures’ mission is to disrupt multiple industries and become a market leader in them. We don’t fear any big players (perhaps because we’re naive or just stubborn). Eventually, we want Flux to become a worldwide recognizable brand associated with innovation and high quality.* Throughout the past year and a half, we have focused on developing skills that allow us to discover market inefficiencies on which to capitalize. We are big on [A/B testing](http://flux.la/6-simple-steps-successful-ab-testing/) and [automation](https://alejandrorioja.com/invite-friends-like-page-facebook-script/). Flux Ventures is currently valued at $6-9M. Miles Anthony is my co-founder. ## **Current companies** ### **Flux Chargers** [![Flux Portable Charger](/images/posts/inline/eaa5e9fd-screenshot-2016-11-01-20.36.34-300x237.png)](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers) In June 2015, during the [StartupUCLA summer accelerator](http://startupucla.com), we launched our first product and company: a [portable charger](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers) named the [Flux Charger](https://twitter.com/fluxchargers). Although most people considered the portable charger market to be very saturated and dominated by big corporations, we saw potential to innovate on branding and with a memorable form factor. In less than a year, we captured a very sizable portion of the market and gained #1 rank across the board in over 70 countries and publications like [Yahoo Tech, Digital Trends, MobileMag, GizMag](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/) and others. Not to mention dozens of 5-star reviews on [Amazon](https://www.instagram.com/fluxchargers/). Flux Chargers is evolving into Flux Electronics over the next few months to include more consumer electronics under the Flux brand. This company is set to make over $1M in revenue in the next 12 months. ### **Flux.LA** [![dowa-mockups](/images/posts/inline/e6061ba4-dowa-mockups-300x200.jpg)](http://flux.la) Taking the knowledge and reputation that we built from Flux Chargers, we expanded our brand by providing the services that we saw people needed the most: development and social media marketing. Thus, in December 2015, we launched [Flux.LA](http://flux.la) a software and design consulting firm that specializes in [SEO, design and marketing](http://flux.la). We’ve had the privilege to work with companies and organizations like Google Glass, UCLA, and other Fortune 1000 companies and startups. ### **Young Slacker Media** [![](http://youngslacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/youngslacker-logo.png)](http://youngslacker.com) Flux Ventures is also in charge of [Young Slacker Media](http://youngslacker.com), a very [profitable snapchat channel](https://alejandrorioja.com/make-money-on-snapchat/) that helps connect brands with younger audiences through clever, raw and unedited marketing. Although the Young Slacker channel started mainly as my personal hobby, I saw an opportunity to monetize on my audience so I decided to build this Young Slacker persona about my life. Young Slacker owns [So Influential](https://soinfluential.com/) and [Future Sharks](https://futuresharks.com/). ### **Flux Capital** ![flux-capital-logo](/images/posts/inline/7f4cd597-flux-capital-logo-300x68.png) [Flux Capital](https://www.everipedia.com/flux-capital/) is our venture capital fund. With this venture, we like to fund projects that resemble the same hustling values that we praise at Flux Ventures. Following the steps of Buffett, we only invest in projects that we fully understand. Moreover, we only invest if we know for a fact the founders are [bauses](http://everipedia.com/baus), which means never using excuses and using all the tools (i.e. Google, connections) to learn how to do something and get it done. My favorite investment thus far has been [Everipedia](http://everipedia.com), a fast growing company that recently received a $30M Series A.  ## **Big vision** *“So Alejandro, where do you envision Flux Ventures in 5 and 10 years? What other companies do you plan to build?”* I am a very inquisitive and excited person; and so is everyone on the Flux team.  Every time we have a meeting we like to bounce off ideas of what other ventures we would like to start. So here are some of the ideas I have for companies in the future: Ever since I was 14, I wanted to build my own **restaurant chain**. Not a junk-food chain but rather a high quality and healthy fast food chain. The restaurants I look up to right now are: Eatsa (they employ “no” humans) and [Cava](https://cava.com/) (really good food and perfect branding). Furthermore, to follow that trend, I would like to produce a **superfood product sold at stores**, like a healthy and not overpriced cereal bar. Pardon the pun, but I would like to *raise the bar* on cereal bars. I would also like to create my own **accelerator**. I learned a lot during the summer at StartupUCLA. Now, I want to teach founders [how to sell](https://alejandrorioja.com/how-to-sell-anything/) and help their startups grow so that later on Flux Capital can make an institutional investment in their companies. Other companies include: Flux Real Estate, Flux Records (just like the OG Virgin Records since I really want to release my own rap song), Flux Hotels and a mobile app/ SaaS product (because it wouldn’t be a real startup unless I am trying to acquire millions of users, would it?). Here are some other [great ideas that I might not have the time to pursue](https://alejandrorioja.com/ideas-to-steal/). ## **Last words** I am Flux and Flux is me. There is nothing that I enjoy more than working towards this dream. It is because I want Flux Ventures to become the worldwide brand I just described that I am able to put 10, 14 even sometimes 17 hours of work per day. I sincerely want Flux to transform the world. And I won’t stop until it happens. Sign up here and get my free ebook on “How to find a niche and ways to determine if your niche is indeed profitable” --- ## The shorter version If you're reading this because the workflow it describes is eating your week, that's the kind of loop I [build AI agents for](/services/#agent). Two build slots open at a time. ---