Internet Marketing – Page 295

The trifecta of keyword research strategy: Volume, difficulty, intent

Search marketing is an ever-changing industry, but even amid the generative AI movement, one thing remains constant: keywords.

Identifying the most valuable keywords for your business can make or break your visibility and online presence and put distance between you and your competition. But only when it’s appropriately harnessed.

Learning to do strategic keyword research for SEO allows you to navigate the clutter and noise of search marketing, leading you to the treasure trove of targeted traffic, higher rankings, and increased conversions.

Keyword research goes beyond simply finding popular words or phrases, though. It involves understanding the trifecta of volume, difficulty, and intent.

Volume tells you how often people search for specific keywords.
Difficulty gauges the competition you’ll face.
Intent reveals the underlying purpose of user searches.

Clarifying how to use these three data points will help you create a crystal-clear keyword strategy for your business.

Understanding keyword volume

Keyword volume represents the number of times a keyword is searched for within a given time frame, providing valuable insights into user behavior and search trends and indicating the potential traffic and visibility that a given keyword can bring to your website.

High-volume keywords can be a goldmine, attracting significant organic traffic and potential customers.

On the other hand, low-volume keywords may have less competition (we’ll get to that next), allowing you to carve out a niche and target a specific audience.

Finding high-volume keywords relevant to your business is the ultimate goal of keyword research.

You want to uncover those hidden gems with a high search volume that align with your products, services, or industry.

To find these, start by brainstorming relevant terms and phrases that your target audience might use when searching for solutions or information related to your business.

Put yourself in your target customer’s shoes and think about the language they would use.

Then, leverage keyword research tools to explore the search volume for these keywords and identify the ones with substantial search traffic.

For example, if you’re a roofing company offering various types and styles of roofs, but you want to bring more traffic and awareness to your metal roofing option, you would want to explore a few variations of key phrases your customers might search to find the more commonly used terms.

Here are a few to consider:

Here you can see the average number of times per month each keyword is searched in the Volume column to assess what keyword you might like to go after with your metal roofing service page.

But remember, it’s not just about chasing the highest volume keywords mindlessly. You also need to consider the relevance and competition associated with those keywords.

Finding a balance between high volume and achievable competition is the key to success.

Evaluating keyword difficulty

Keyword difficulty measures how challenging it is to rank for a specific keyword. We turn to our trusty tools to assess keyword difficulty and calculate the factors influencing it.

We’re talking about things like the number of websites already ranking for the keyword, the quality and authority of those websites, SERP features, etc.

A good keyword research strategy is a balance of finding that sweet spot between high-volume and low-difficulty keywords.

You want to target keywords with decent search volume but aren’t overrun by fierce competitors. It’s about choosing your battles wisely and focusing on those keywords where you have a fighting chance.

Choose a keyword difficulty that isn’t more than 10-15% points higher than your current domain authority (a metric you can measure in those all-in-one search marketing platforms mentioned above). This will give you a fighting chance of ranking with the right content.

Following the metal roofing company example, if your domain authority score is sitting at 30, you’ll want to target keywords with a difficulty score between 20-40.

Your site should rank pretty quickly for the keywords with a difficulty under 30. Anything above that will provide a bit more of a challenge for those top 3 spots in the search results, but getting ranked higher for those terms will also help to grow your domain authority over time.

Looking at those same keywords, I would say “types of metal roofs” and “metal roofing contractors” are achievable to rank for with our current domain authority.

SEO is a long game. It’s about finding that delicate balance and adapting your strategy.

Start with a viable strategy now, and as your domain authority builds, you can go after more competitive terms in time.

Matching user intent

User intent refers to the underlying purpose or motivation behind a search query. This is where the scientific field of SEO turns into an art form, open to interpretation.

Identifying the keyword intent is all about deciphering the hidden meaning behind someone’s words.

Users who type their queries into search engines have a specific goal in mind. It could be:

Researching information.
Navigating to a particular website.
Finding a solution.
Completing a transaction.
And more.

User intent is most commonly broken down into four different types. Let’s break it down:

Informational intent

This is when users seek knowledge, answers, or solutions to their questions.

They might search for “how-to” guides, tutorials, or informative articles. Meet their search with a blog or long-form informational landing page on your website.

Navigational Intent

Users with navigational intent already have a specific website or brand in mind. They want to navigate directly to that website.

They might search for the brand name or particular URLs. Meet their search with your company information like an About or Location page.

Commercial Intent

These users are in the investigational research phase and are likely to consider a purchase. They’re looking for product comparisons, reviews, or pricing information.

For example, “best software for bookkeeping” or “top trail running shoes.”

Meet their search with a long-form service page, a UX-optimized homepage, or a great “top products” blog post, depending on your business.

Transactional Intent

Users with transactional intent are ready to take action. They want to make a purchase, sign up for a service, or complete a transaction.

They might search for keywords like “buy,” “order,” or “sign up.” Meet their search with a product or service page with an appropriate CTA.

Dig deeper: How to create and execute a buyer journey-based content strategy

You’ll want to analyze search engine results to align your keyword targeting with user intent. See what types of content are ranking for specific keywords.

Look at the top-ranking pages and ask yourself, “Does my content align with what users expect to find?”

It’s about stepping into the shoes of your target audience and providing them with the answers and solutions they seek.

Coming back to the metal roofing example, if it’s between “types of metal roofs” or “metal roofing contractor,” we would choose “metal roofing contractor” based on the commercial user intent.

The intent on “types of metal roofs” does show possible commercial intent.

Still, after looking at the other content ranking for this keyword, we would quickly determine that this is a keyword for a blog or other content piece.

By understanding user intent and creating content that addresses it, you improve the user experience and increase your chances of conversions and customer satisfaction.

Dig deeper: There are more than 4 types of search intent

The trifecta in action: Best practices

With some background in making good keyword strategy decisions, here are some best practices to get going with your research.

Conduct comprehensive keyword research

Don’t limit yourself to a handful of keywords. Cast a wide net from the start to explore various keywords to ensure you get all hidden gems instead of only the obvious terms.

Use keyword research tools, brainstorming sessions with coworkers and customers, and competitor analysis to gather a diverse pool of potential keywords.

Prioritize keywords based on the trifecta

Not all keywords are created equal. You need to prioritize based on the trifecta factors.

Identify keywords with a decent search volume that align with your business goals and have a realistic difficulty level.

Also, consider different variations of words (e.g., past or present tense) as you explore the meaningful keywords for your business and audience.

Create content that addresses user intent

Develop content that satisfies the needs and intentions of your target audience. Whether it’s informative blog posts, engaging videos, or interactive guides, tailor your content to align with user intent.

Not sure what language your customers use or what questions they ask?

Talk to your sales and customer service teams to see if they have a list of common objections or frequently asked questions. That is a great place to create a keyword-focused and in-demand content plan.

After identifying your most valuable keywords, the last thing you want to do is target them with the wrong piece of content.

Don’t take that high-volume informational keyword and optimize your product page to get more purchases. Those users are merely looking for more knowledge and are not ready to buy.

Meeting the user intent with the right pieces of content satisfies the customer and rewards your website authority with positive ranking signals.

Dig deeper: Content mapping: Who, what, where, when, why and how

Monitor and adjust your keyword strategy

SEO is constantly evolving. Keep an eye on your keyword performance and be ready to make adjustments as needed.

In-market language can change over time as trends ebb and flow. Analyze the data, track rankings, and listen to what your audience is saying.

Keep your landing pages and content fresh with your top target keywords, but feel free to tweak those keywords as your audience broadens.

Remember to stay agile and adapt your keyword strategy as needed.

Keep experimenting, testing, and refining your approach to stay ahead of the latest search trends and ahead of your competitors.

Where to get your keyword data

You can choose a range of free and paid tools to gather the data points we discussed above. Below are a few options:

Google Keyword Planner

This free tool allows you to explore keyword ideas, analyze search volumes, and even get insights into the competitiveness of specific keywords.

Ubersuggest

This “freemium” tool allows you a few searches per month for data before needing a paid account. It’s a great introductory all-in-one tool if you’re starting out.

Search marketing platforms

A few all-in-one paid tools like Semrush, Ahrefs, and Moz provide all the data you need and some nifty tools for digging deeper when you conquer your keyword strategy, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the search landscape.

Consider volume, difficulty and intent for a solid keyword strategy

Keyword research is not a one-time endeavor. It’s a continuous journey of growth and optimization.

Keyword research isn’t going out of style anytime soon. Even generative AI needs to use language and commonly used search terms.

So if you’re starting to scratch the surface or are ready to dig deeper into keyword research and SEO, you’re on the right path. Just keep going.

Let your curiosity be your compass, your creativity be your fuel, and your commitment be your guiding light.

Soon, your expertly selected target keywords will help you connect with your audience, elevate your online presence, and drive more conversions for your business.

The post The trifecta of keyword research strategy: Volume, difficulty, intent appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/keyword-research-strategy-volume-difficulty-intent-431422

5 Small-But-Impactful Ways to Optimize Your Startup & Boost Success

Home Business Magazine Online

Have you recently launched a new business and don’t know how to make it more efficient? Or, are you having a hard time landing new customers and can’t quite figure out how to take your startup to the next level? You are not alone — many new entrepreneurs experience these struggles early on in their business journey and wonder if they should just go back to the comfort and security of a 9-to-5 job. Let me be the one to tell you this: DON’T give up on your entrepreneurial endeavors, as you can and will overcome these challenges.

I have launched and grown over a dozen businesses and know firsthand the struggles that so many new entrepreneurs face after they launch a startup. In my journey as the owner of Kairos Venture Studios, which specializes in launching new online businesses in the Latin American market, I have discovered a number of small-but-impactful ways entrepreneurs can optimize their startups and amplify business success. Here are 6 of them to keep in mind:

Ramp Up Productivity with Time Blocking

It is so easy for each day to fly by without finding the time for deep, uninterrupted work on projects that move your business forward. I get it — emails are constantly flooding your inbox, your business associates call at random times (and these phone conversations last over an hour), and so on. However, it is pertinent to make the time to check in with new client leads, plan and implement new marketing strategies, and work on other initiatives that lead to business growth. You can do this by scheduling your workdays two weeks out using time blocking.

Time blocking will help you stay on top of all of your work tasks, complete projects before their deadlines, and ensure that you never forget about projects that need to be worked on. To do this effectively, make sure to block out time in a scheduling tool (like Google Calendar) for the three most important tasks you need to complete every day, and also schedule blocks of time to answer emails and complete miscellaneous tasks. Since you already know what you need to work on each day from planning in advance, you will never waste time on trying to figure out the next task to work on.

Hire a Freelance Virtual Assistant ASAP

Even though you are in the early stages of your business journey, you likely already know what tasks consume the most time in your workday. Are they answering emails? Data entry? Replying to comments on your business’s social media channels? Don’t let these everyday work tasks take up your time any longer. Hire a virtual assistant as soon as possible to take over these tasks, as they will help optimize workflow and amplify the success of your company.

Entrepreneurs should hire a virtual assistant when their companies start to grow and it’s no longer viable for them to handle all of the tasks required to keep operations running smoothly. You can find affordable virtual assistants from all over the world for your company on websites like UpWork and Fiverr. Even better, you can hire specialized virtual assistants to handle specific projects or administrative tasks (like updating the website and daily social media management), which can be more cost-effective than hiring full-time, salaried employees.

Keep in mind that when you are describing projects to your virtual assistant, it is paramount that instructions are very detailed, in depth, and easy-to-comprehend. This will help to eliminate a lot of the back-and-forth discussions that can cause projects to drag out for a long time, especially if your virtual assistant is in another country with a large time difference. There could be a bit of a language barrier if you work with a virtual assistant in another country, so make sure that instructions are very clear and easy to understand.

Automate Meeting Scheduling with Calendar Tools

Have you yet to adopt the use of a calendar tool like Calendly? Calendar tools are so useful for business leaders, as they streamline the process of setting up calls and greatly cut down on time-consuming back-and-forth emails. If you don’t use a calendar tool, you have to email a business associate to ask when they are available for a call, wait for an answer, then schedule the call yourself in your calendar. On the other hand, if you have a calendar tool, you can simply send its link to your associate and they can select a time that works for them, then the scheduled call automatically shows up on your schedule and theirs.

Even better, the calendar tool will email both you and your associate with info about your call. You can also segment your automated calendar “events” according to what the calls will be about, and ask the contact for necessary info in the event’s “description” box. For example, you can create an automated 15-minute call for new clients, an automated 30-minute call for onboarding a new client, etc. Then you can write in these events’ descriptions what kind of info will be needed for each call, what might be discussed, etc. This can help ensure you don’t have to email the contact before your call asking for these assets.

Land New Customers by Launching a Podcast and/or YouTube Channel

If you have been struggling to land new clients, use a YouTube channel and/or podcast to provide free value to your target audience. This may pique their interest in subscribing, visiting your business’s website, and making a purchase. For example, you can share informational how-to videos and weekly industry insights roundups on YouTube, which will help position you as a leader in your industry. You can then capitalize on this by including your business website in each video description, which can lead to a boost in website traffic (and therefore a greater ranking in search engines). This can ramp up business success.

Show Online Support to Other Company Leaders in Their Endeavors

Referrals from your business network can really help you grow your customer base. So network with other company leaders on social media and support them in their endeavors. Whether you are resharing an interesting article another entrepreneur posted or simply commenting “Congratulations!” when they share a major feat on Instagram, supporting and celebrating other business leaders is the best way to grow your network and potentially boost referrals. Those you connect with will know you are in their corner and will then be more inspired to want to support you as well and work with you. This can even lead to fruitful collaborations later on!

To Wrap It All Up

There are so many small-but-effective ways to optimize your startup and amplify business success. You can increase daily productivity and get more deep work on high-impact projects done by scheduling out each day with time blocking, hiring an affordable freelance virtual assistant, and using a calendar tool to streamline meeting scheduling. Also, you can land more customers by launching a podcast or YouTube channel and supporting other business owners in their endeavors. These are just a few ways to bring your startup to new heights.

The post 5 Small-But-Impactful Ways to Optimize Your Startup & Boost Success appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/success-tips/5-ways-optimize-startup-boost-success/

The Top 5 Keys in the Preconstruction Process

Home Business Magazine Online

Preconstruction is a foundational phase in the construction industry, shaping the trajectory of projects and influencing their ultimate success. This critical phase casts a powerful influence over the course of construction endeavors, dictating their costs, schedules, and ultimate outcomes. “Preconstruction is often overlooked,” states Ro Bhatia, CEO of Plan Hub. “Yet, it is the foundation on which the entire project is built.”

Accurate cost estimation and budgeting

A crucial element of preconstruction is to estimate costs and create a budget. Accurately estimating costs and creating a practical budget involves a detailed analysis of materials, labor, equipment, and other resources necessary for the project. “It’s not just about crunching numbers,” Ro Bhatia points out. “It’s about understanding the financial foundation of the project.”

Moreover, precise cost estimation can reveal opportunities for cost savings without compromising the project’s quality or objectives. These insights enable a project to be financially responsible while meeting its goals.

Meticulous project planning and scheduling

Another critical factor in the preconstruction phase is meticulous project planning and scheduling. It’s important to carefully map out the project’s scope, tasks, and timelines to properly plan the construction process. It’s not simply creating a list of things to do, but setting a clear roadmap for the entire process.

“Effective project planning ensures resources are correctly allocated, and tasks are completed logically,” shares Ro Bhatia. It helps prevent delays and keeps the project on track to meet its deadlines. Stakeholders can better manage their time and resources by breaking down the project into manageable tasks and assigning realistic timelines.

This planning process also helps identify potential bottlenecks and challenges early on. By visualizing the project’s timeline, stakeholders can foresee potential task clashes, resource shortages, or other obstacles hindering progress. Proactive problem-solving and adjustments can be made before they become significant issues.

Furthermore, detailed project planning facilitates communication between various teams and stakeholders. Everyone involved can understand their roles, responsibilities, and timelines, leading to a smoother collaboration process. This alignment of efforts contributes to efficient execution and a higher likelihood of meeting project milestones.

Effective risk management

A fundamental aspect of preconstruction is effective risk management, where potential challenges and uncertainties are identified and addressed before they impact the project. This proactive approach helps minimize disruptions and ensure a smoother construction journey.

During this phase, thorough assessments are conducted to identify possible risks that could arise during the construction process. These risks could range from unforeseen weather events to supply chain interruptions or regulatory changes. By anticipating these scenarios, stakeholders can devise strategies to mitigate their impact or prevent them altogether.

Effective risk management involves developing contingency plans and fallback options. If a particular risk materializes, there’s a predefined plan in place to address it promptly. This level of preparedness reduces the likelihood of project delays and instills confidence among stakeholders and investors.

Furthermore, by addressing potential risks early on, preconstruction allows budget adjustments and resource allocation based on the identified risks. This prevents sudden financial strains and ensures the project remains on solid ground, even when facing unexpected challenges.

The collaboration between various stakeholders is crucial in this process. Architects, engineers, contractors, and other experts can contribute their insights to identify risks that might not be immediately apparent. This interdisciplinary approach enhances the project’s ability to anticipate and manage risks effectively.

Design coordination and collaboration

In the early stages of construction planning, design coordination, and collaboration are essential in defining the project’s direction. This crucial process involves bringing architects, engineers, contractors, and clients together to ensure that the project’s design aligns with its intended vision and practical feasibility.

By effectively coordinating the design, teams can ensure that the project’s design is visually appealing, but also functional and feasible within the constraints of the construction process. The key is to balance creative aspirations and practical implementation, ensuring that the project’s goals are met while staying within the scope of the construction timeline and budget.

Collaboration among different teams is essential to refine the design and address potential conflicts or challenges that might arise during construction. By working together, experts from various disciplines can provide insights that contribute to a more cohesive and viable design.

Design coordination also involves navigating any changes or adjustments that might be necessary based on technical requirements or budget considerations. By addressing these issues early on, the project can avoid costly redesigns or delays during construction.

Value engineering and optimization

The ultimate objective of value engineering is to maximize the value of every dollar invested in the project. This requires meticulously examining every project aspect to identify alternative materials, methods, or approaches that could achieve similar or superior results at a lower cost.

Preconstruction provides an excellent opportunity for value engineering, as stakeholders can explore these alternatives before settling on a specific design. Considering various options during this phase, any changes can be made without significant disruptions or delays during construction.

Value engineering isn’t just to reduce costs, but also to improve efficiency, functionality, and overall project performance. It encourages innovative thinking and problem-solving, leading to economical and effective designs.

Collaboration among different teams is critical to the success of value engineering. Architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders pool their expertise to identify opportunities for optimization. This interdisciplinary approach ensures the project benefits from diverse perspectives, resulting in a high-value outcome.

The five keys that unlock the potential of preconstruction hold the power to transform conceptual visions into tangible realities. Accurate cost estimation and budgeting serve as the financial compass, guiding projects toward fiscal stability and responsible resource allocation. Meticulous project planning and scheduling construct a roadmap for success, ensuring efficient resource management and timely completion. Effective risk management acts as a safeguard against unforeseen disruptions, bolstering project resilience. Design coordination and collaboration foster creativity and functionality, aligning visions with practical implementation. Value engineering and optimization act as architects of efficiency, honing projects for maximum value without compromising quality.

“Effective preconstruction planning lays a strong foundation for success in the rest of the construction process,” affirms Ro Bhatia.

The post The Top 5 Keys in the Preconstruction Process appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/management/operations/top-5-keys-preconstruction-process/

Universal Analytics still processing data two months after ‘sunset’

Universal Analytics is still processing data two months after Google advised it would sunset.

Google had warned that everyone would be forced to migrate over to Google Analytics 4 by July 1 or else they would lose the ability to track the performance of their websites and campaigns.

However, it’s now two months later and many marketers can still use their UA accounts as usual.

Why we care. The majority of marketers did not embrace the enforced migration to GA4 and many have found the new system difficult to use with complaints raised around its user interface, a lag in data and data discrepancies. Being able to still monitor campaign and website performance in UA will come as a huge relief to those that have been struggling with GA4. However, as tempting as it may be, it would be unwise for marketers to rely on UA for analytics purposes as it could stop processing data at any minute.

What’s the latest? Many search marketers and website operators received email notifications from Google starting around Aug. 22 that Universal Analytics properties have stopped processing data. The email read, in part:

“Your Universal Analytics property [UA property number] has now stopped processing new data. All remaining Universal Analytics standard properties will soon stop processing new data. If you haven’t yet, we encourage you to complete your transition to Google Analytics 4.”

Meanwhile. Shopify’s official support channel was recently asked by a marketer to comment on when UA data would stop processing data on its merchant platform. A spokesperson said on X:

“While the Universal Analytics properties will no longer process data on July 1st, merchants will still be able to see UA reports and historical data for the time being.”
“We don’t have a set date on when the feature will be completely removed from the admin. – Dirk.”

Word of warning. Although it does appear to be business as usual for many using UA, a warning that started appearing on the tool at the start of the month is still there, warning users to migrate to GA4. It reads:

“This property is scheduled to stop processing data very soon.”
“Any conversions and audiences you use with Google Ad campaigns will stop working.”
“To avoid serious disruption to your ads, book a free support session to to complete your move to Google Analytics 4 today.”

UA sunsets for some. While many marketers can still access their data on UA, others have confirmed to Search Engine Land that their accounts have stopped processing data. James Brockbank, managing director of Digitaloft, told us last month:

“I can still see realtime for this UA property but it’s no longer tracking data.
“This has been showing as 0 (same across a few different sites’ properties) since midnight in the properties’ time zone.”

For marketers still using UA as opposed to GA4, it looks as though their accounts may very well be on borrowed time.

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What has Google said? Google has confirmed that the sunset of UA has already begun but that properties are being removed in stages. All access to UA will be completely be gone by July 1, 2024. The search engine confirmed on the Analytics Help Center:

“Universal Analytics properties will stop processing hits, including standard properties in accounts that also contain 360 properties starting 1 July 2023.”
“Some properties will continue to process data for a short period after this as we stage the shutdown of Universal Analytics.”
“You’ll be able to access your previously processed data in your Universal Analytics property until July 1, 2024.”
“Starting on 1 July 2024, all users, including those accessing 360 properties, will lose access to the Universal Analytics user interface and API.”
“We know your data is important to you, and we recommend that you export your historical reports before this date.”

Deep dive: For more information on how to migrate to GA4, read Google’s ‘Learn how to make the switch‘ guide.

The post Universal Analytics still processing data two months after ‘sunset’ appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/universal-analytics-processing-data-one-month-on-430025

Increasing SERP visibility with structured data and schema testing

A steady decline in organic click-through rate has posed a real challenge for SEOs over the last few years.

With organic ranking becoming increasingly competitive, the best way SEOs can continue to excel is to shift their focus to SERP features and rich results, according to Tanner Zoromski, SEO manager at Merkle, a customer experience management company.

Technical SEO is an effective way to increase this type of visibility, using structured data and schema markup. He explained:

“Essentially we want to make search engines’ lives easier by using these techniques because as a result, they will reward us with our content ranking higher in the SERP and we’ll have more interaction from searchers.”

Below is a summary of how structured data and schema testing can increase SERP visibility, as presented by Zoromski at SMX Advanced.

Search is changing

Search is always evolving. As new features are deployed, structured data can provide sites with the edge needed to effectively and efficiently communicate with search engines, Zoromski explained:

“I want to highlight here that Google is continuing to test and implement search changes, relying more on information scraped from sites. And we are seeing more results resembling product listing pages – which lends clues to the direction Google is looking to take its product.”
“This means we need to question how to stay at the forefront of this. How do we communicate most effectively with search engines? And how do we make sure that despite these different changes, we’re still present and showing up first?”

Understanding the breadth of schema

The SEO expert went on to explain the importance of knowing what schemes are available and how to correctly deploy them for maximum impact:

“There are more than 32 different types of schema that can be implemented to interact with over 16 different SERP features.”
“Whether we’re publishing articles or blogs or we’re reviewing movies, it’s important to understand what schema we can leverage to help search engines to index our sites.”

Winning with product schema

SEOs can implement product schema, images and descriptions across all pages to win feature snippets – otherwise known as position zero, as Zoromski explained:

“Implement this type of schema to prevent traffic from going to competitors.”
“Make sure your brand is putting its best foot forward and answering the questions that consumers want to know about their products.”
“Additionally, make sure that the narrative stays on-site and on-topic for what your brand needs, so you are winning at position zero. Schema is the way to do that on this one.”

Results to shout about

Zoromski shared a case study that he had personally worked on, in which his team was able to double organic sessions for a recipe website by correcting microdata and replacing it with structured data:

“My team were presented with a challenge – to review and address some improperly nested microdata that was causing error recipe videos and article markup on a blog.”
“When we looked at the SERP for this keyword, the top organic listings all had structured data – there wasn’t an organic listing in the top search results, which hammers home the need to implement structured data and be visible.”
“Our approach was to recommend the client remove the microdata and replace it with the JSON LD markup instead. As a result, we provided JSON-LD templates for the structured data types Article, Video, Recipe as well as Recipe with Nested Video.”
“As a result, the recipe and article structured data returned 101% increase in organic sessions.”
“This is a pretty clear demonstration that having schema on those pages really elevated their visibility and their engagement with searchers.”

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Tracking performance

From a testing standpoint, Zoromski advised building and monitoring your own SEO testing to track performance and taking multiple factors into consideration, such as:

Establishing the metrics and dimensions being impacted.
Building customized reports to monitor KPI performance.
Defining testing timelines to ensure results within a specific period.
Controling for internal and external variables such as dev releases and site promotions.
Allowing room for assumptions that could impact results.
Relaying findings across teams.

AI and the future of schema

Following recent advancements in AI, Zoromski added that schema will most certainly play a role in this area moving forward – and it’s a situation SEOs need to monitor closely. He concluded:

“With all the buzz around ChatGPT, Bing and Bard, we are seeing ramifications and effects across digital – and SEO is absolutely going to be affected.”
“Search behavior is going to change as AI provides more natural language answers as opposed to a list of links.”
“As SEOs, we need to make sure that in the future, our sites are equipped and able to effectively interact with these different changes. So keep on the lookout and make sure that you’re at the forefront of this.”

The post Increasing SERP visibility with structured data and schema testing appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/increasing-serp-visibility-structured-data-schema-testing-431349

MoneyMagpie’s Free Cash Giveaway

Money Giveaway: The cost of living crisis is really getting people down now. With a record number of people taking on second jobs and people frantically googling ‘quick ways to make cash’, we at MoneyMagpie have again decided to put our hand in our pocket and offer some help to readers.

In July we had a record number of people entering our cash giveaway and whilst it never quite feels enough. We are back again this month with the chance to win some free money… no strings attatched.

Therefore, it is double the amount this time and we are offering 10 readers £10. There are no strings attached at all. Simply comment on the article with what you would spend the fiver on, and then in four weeks, 10 people will be selected to win the money.

MoneyMagpie founder Jasmine Birtles says: ‘It really doesn’t feel much in the greater scheme of things, but if it helps a few people then we are more than happy to step in. We have had a record number of people writing in and asking us how to access quick cash, and in reality there aren’t many ways that are safe to the consumer. Therefore we just wanted to offer them a chance. We are strongly against gambling so didn’t want our readers to go there, therefore it’s simply cash.’

We will get the money to you in the form of Paypal or an Amazon Voucher.

So, as stated above, for your chance to get your hands on a tenner, just answer ‘what would you spend an extra tenner on this month?’ in the comments below. The comments will close at midnight on Oct 1, 2023.

We will notify the winners on October 2, 2023.

Good luck. We look forward to hearing your answers.

The post MoneyMagpie’s Free Cash Giveaway appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/money-magpies-free-cash-giveaway

Replacement Windows Grants Types for Your Home

Home Business Magazine Online

Replacing windows Grants are available to help homeowners replace their outdated windows with energy-efficient versions such as triple glazing, helping reduce utility bills and environmental impact while saving money in the process. They’re offered by government departments, Section 504 programmes, and non-profit organisations alike.

These grants are beneficial to households living on tight budgets seeking to reduce their energy bills. Be sure to review any documentation requirements before making an application.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Programme

Many low-income families and seniors struggle to pay their energy bills each month, leading to thousands of families having their electricity and heating shut off each year due to their inability to pay energy costs. To provide assistance for such households, government programmes offer utility bill help as well as energy-saving upgrades that aim to decrease expenses while making homes more comfortable.

These programmes are funded and implemented by local companies and prioritise elderly households, physically disabled residents, households with children under 12, and those who receive high utility bills. Furthermore, the programmes aim to promote energy efficiency as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing other benefits like window replacement services.

These programmes typically provide energy bill assistance for electricity, natural gas, propane, fuel oil, wood, or water users, as well as home weatherization assistance and energy crisis support services to keep families healthy and safe, especially those on fixed incomes or facing health conditions that hinder heating or cooling their home properly.

Due to all the various programmes available, it can be daunting trying to decide which is right for you. To gain more insight, start by searching for local providers offering these services; this can be accomplished using websites that list state agencies as well as providers locally.

Department of Energy

The Department of Energy provides grant funding for individuals looking to improve the energy efficiency of their home through window replacement. Grants are offered to low-income households that meet certain government criteria relating to income, homeownership status, and energy use; for instance, fuel allowance payments, working family payments, one-parent family payments, or domiciliary care payments may qualify for funding through this department.

An energy audit should be the starting point in applying for a home energy improvement grant, helping you identify which areas of your house are the least energy-efficient as well as cost-effective strategies to save energy (like replacing windows). You should be able to find low- or no-cost energy audits through local utility companies, state governments, and non-profit organisations.

New York offers numerous programmes that provide financial assistance to homeowners looking to make energy-efficient upgrades like window replacements. These grants can increase the value of your home while decreasing energy use, resulting in savings on energy bills.

The programme also offers tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements installed by qualified contractors. Credits can reach $600 per project, with up to $3,200 claimed annually on energy-efficient improvements.

Non-Profit Organisation

Many non-profit organisations provide window replacement grants to low-income individuals. Their goal is to reduce energy usage by replacing outdated windows with energy-efficient ones and saving money on electricity bills while conserving natural resources. Some programmes even offer incentives to promote renewable sources of energy, such as sunlight or wind, for home owners.

Local government assistance programmes may offer grants to low-income individuals in need of replacing their windows. Such grants prioritise the welfare of low-income individuals while understanding the significance of having safe, decent, energy-efficient, well-maintained housing that’s energy-efficient and safe.

Habitat for Humanity and Volunteers of America have established programmes to assist low-income individuals with replacing their windows, typically providing funding for materials as well as labour costs associated with the installation of the new windows. You may contact either of these nonprofit organisations directly for more information regarding these initiatives.

The Weatherization Assistance Programme (WAP), administered by the Department of Energy, assists low-income households by encouraging alternative energy usage and improving home efficiency through insulation, air sealing, and window replacement. WAP can reduce energy costs while simultaneously improving comfort; local WAP agencies can be found by visiting the USDA website or calling a toll-free number; some local governments also have LIHEAP grants available that may help pay utility bills to avoid disconnection of power to homes.

Weatherization Assistance Programme

In the US, low-income households can often struggle to cover heating and cooling expenses. Draughty windows, poorly insulated walls, and outdated appliances are major contributors. While it can be costly to fix these issues alone, help is available through the Weatherization Assistance Programme (WAP), which offers insulation installation, air sealing services, and new doors and windows to reduce energy bills and save on energy costs.

WAP is funded by the Department of Energy and implemented locally by local companies following federal guidelines, prioritising projects based on their savings potential, and providing free services to income-eligible homeowners, renters, and landlords who receive Supplemental Security Income or Aid to Families with Dependent Children benefits who are automatically eligible to take part.

So many programmes now focus on meeting the needs of disadvantaged families by working alongside community organisations, health care providers, and social service agencies to reach these communities. Their efforts play a vital role in increasing equity in homeownership by targeting redlined neighbourhoods to boost homeownership rates while supporting economic development. Furthermore, these efforts allow more families to access affordable mortgages and loans for home improvements, so they can create more comfortable environments while saving energy costs.

windows in room — Photo by Curtis Adams from Pexels

How Much Does It Cost to Install New Windows in a House?

Cost factors associated with installing new windows in your home can depend on a number of different variables, including type, frame material and size of window chosen.

Older homes typically need full-frame replacement windows while new construction projects may use insert or pocket replacements instead. Furthermore, window locations play an important part in installation — hard-to-reach ones may take more time and incur higher labor costs.

Cost of Materials

Cost of materials for replacement windows varies significantly based on frame material (vinyl, fibreglass or wood), window design/size/style/brand and local differences that influence price (such as sliding, single/double hung/casement windows etc). Furthermore, labour expenses also impact replacement window prices.

Depending on its condition, window frames that have become rotten will incur more costs as new frames must be constructed — an unexpected but significant expense that many homeowners don’t plan for.

Another consideration when replacing windows is the number being installed at once. Purchasing multiple units at the same time can lower per window costs since window companies will usually offer discounts. Window sizes also play a factor as larger windows require additional materials that need to be cut on site — increasing labor costs considerably for this project. Aesthetic and energy efficiency options will have their own impactful costs that must be factored into consideration as part of this total price tag for replacement window installation projects.

Cost of Installation

Costs associated with window installation depend heavily on their size and type, as well as any optional extra features or accessories chosen. Window size will determine which frame and trim materials will be needed, along with glass type and grid pattern; any extra trim pieces or labour costs incurred from taking down existing trim could increase this total amount further.

Location plays a role in installation costs as well. Reaching hard-to-reach windows may require scaffolding or crane services and will increase overall project costs; replacing windows in historic homes may be more complex due to specific code requirements and may incur higher replacement costs than usual.

Some home improvement contractors provide volume discounts for those opting to replace all their windows at once, helping reduce overall costs while making the project easier and more manageable. Installing new windows also increases resale value of homes significantly and can yield excellent returns on investments.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficient windows can significantly cut home heating and cooling expenses. Unfortunately, energy-efficient windows tend to cost more than their counterparts; however, homeowners can offset any extra cost with the federal tax credit for Energy Star-qualified windows.

Window type and style also play an integral part in determining replacement window costs, with standard single- and double-hung windows being among the least expensive choices available; other possibilities may include awning, bay, bow, casement, circle garden glass block jalousie picture pocket skylight sliding.

Retrofit windows can be cost-effective as they use existing frames and trim, while full-frame windows require taking down and installing a completely new brickmould and trim system, both which require extra expense and work on new construction homes. Some home improvement companies provide different styles and price tiers to fit each homeowner’s individual needs and can also provide quotes that cover installation as well as additional services like siding repair and replacement or damage repair/replacement as part of their package deal.

Warranty

When replacing windows in your home, there are a number of important considerations. Selecting the appropriate style and frame material are both key aspects to consider, with manufacturers offering numerous options tailored towards homeowners as well as different warranty packages.

Many companies will provide rebates and discounts when customers purchase new replacement windows from them, while some even provide workmanship warranties to cover labour costs related to the installation of these windows.

Workmanship warranties typically offer one year of coverage. To make an informed decision about which product or contractor to select, be sure to ask about any warranties that come with their products, or additional coverage such as double lifetime warranties that can even transfer onto subsequent homeowners — these will help maintain home value while offering peace of mind — many contractors also provide such warranties beyond manufacturer guarantees.

The post Replacement Windows Grants Types for Your Home appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/lifestyles/home-improvement/replacement-windows-grants-types-home/

Google introduces new Limited Ads Serving policy

Google Ads is introducing a new policy to combat scams and help prevent misleading ads.

The platform will now have a “get-to-know-you” period for advertisers it doesn’t know well. During this time, Google Ads may limit how many impressions unfamiliar advertisers receive.

The Limited Ads Serving policy will apply when an advertiser targets specific brands in their campaign but the relationship between the ad and brand is unclear, Google said.

This gradual rollout aims to curb bad actors while giving legitimate advertisers time to clarify their branding strategies on the platform before they’re rewarded with full reach.

Why we care. Implementing stricter ad policies could build user trust, giving people more confidence to click on buy from brands advertising on Google. The actual impact will likely be small for advertisers, but this could help some brands by reducing the reach of low-quality advertisers targeting them.

What’s next? Google Ads will notify advertisers impacted by the new policy. Those advertisers will get guidance on meeting the requirements to reach what Google calls “qualified status.”

Google Ads plans to slowly phase in enforcement before gradually expanding the policy’s reach.

Measuring trust. Google Ads shared how it will gauge an advertiser’s trustworthiness based on its track record:

User feedback: Google Ads will closely monitor user feedback and consider negative and positive reviews.
Advertising history: Google Ads will analyze whether advertisers have a good track record of adhering to its advertising policies.
Advertiser Identity Verification: The platform confirmed that completing this step is an “important” factor in establishing trust between users and advertisers.

Help for advertisers. Google Ads stated that it will provide advertisers with advice on how to create clear ads – for example, pinning their domain to the title of the ad, especially if they are not a widely known brand.

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What Google is saying? Advertisers without a record of good behavior could have their impressions limited under this policy until they build their track record, a Google Ads spokesperson told Search Engine Land:

“While we want to allow users the opportunity to interact with relevant and helpful ads, this policy will reduce the chance that they’ll see a misleading or confusing ad from an advertiser with an unproven track record.”
“It’s important to us that we keep our platform open to new advertisers and give them the opportunity to deliver a helpful experience. This policy won’t block or remove any ad from our platform, and any limitations on an ad will only apply in certain scenarios like when a user could be confused by an advertiser’s brand identity. We’ll be rolling out this policy gradually and making adjustments to ensure it’s working effectively.”

The post Google introduces new Limited Ads Serving policy appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-new-policy-scams-misleading-ads-431463

Discover the benefits of consent-based marketing: Privacy and personalization by Cynthia Ramsaran

In the age of data privacy regulations and increasing consumer concerns, brands must find ways to use first-party data while protecting consumer rights.

Join experts who will dive into the power of first-party data and how to use it in a privacy-first manner. The panel will explore the importance of transparency, consent, and data security and offer practical tips for implementing responsible data practices.

Learn more by registering and attending “Privacy & Personalization: How to Benefit from Consent-Based Marketing,” presented by OneTrust.

Click here to view more Search Engine Land webinars.

The post Discover the benefits of consent-based marketing: Privacy and personalization appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/discover-the-benefits-of-consent-based-marketing-privacy-and-personalization-431501

Your Comprehensive Guide to Long-Lasting Workspace Essentials

Home Business Magazine Online

In today’s fast-paced world, a well-organized workspace is essential for productivity and long-term success. The right tools and resources not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable work environment. This comprehensive guide explores key essentials that can help you craft a workspace that stands the test of time.

The Foundation of Ergonomics: Comfortable Furniture

Investing in ergonomic furniture is paramount for creating a workspace that not only bolsters your productivity but also nurtures your physical well-being. A well-crafted ergonomic setup can significantly enhance your work experience, especially during extended hours.

Consider acquiring a high-quality adjustable chair that provides optimal lumbar support, encouraging a healthy posture that minimizes back strain. Pair it with an ergonomic desk designed to accommodate both standing and sitting positions. Such a desk promotes movement and prevents the stiffness that can arise from prolonged sitting. Complement these essentials with a monitor stand that aligns your screen at eye level, reducing the strain on your neck and preventing eyestrain.

When selecting ergonomic furniture, prioritize items that can be tailored to your specific needs. Customizability ensures that the furniture adapts to your body, reducing discomfort and fatigue. By nurturing your physical well-being, you’re paving the way for heightened concentration and efficiency. Remember, your workspace should be a haven that nurtures your body, mind, and work performance.

High-Quality Technology and Accessories

Equipping your workspace with reliable technology is a non-negotiable aspect of modern work life. A powerful laptop or desktop computer, a high-resolution monitor, and a responsive keyboard and mouse setup are essential. Additionally, investing in cable management solutions can help keep your workspace organized and clutter-free. When it comes to printing needs, Cartridge People can help you find the right printer cartridges, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted work processes.

Effective Storage Solutions

An organized workspace is a sanctuary of focus. It minimizes distractions and maximizes efficiency, ensuring you can dive into your tasks with a clear mind. To achieve this, incorporate ingenious storage solutions that seamlessly blend functionality and aesthetics. Opt for shelves to display frequently used reference books or decorative items that resonate with you, infusing a personal touch amid the practicality. Drawers and filing cabinets are indispensable for neatly housing documents, invoices, and notes, while desk organizers keep pens, sticky notes, and gadgets tidily arranged.

Personalization for Inspiration

Your workspace is an extension of your personality, and personal touches can greatly contribute to your motivation and creativity. Decorate your workspace with artwork, plants, or meaningful objects that resonate with you. Natural light can also significantly impact your mood and productivity, so if possible, position your workspace near a window. Creating a workspace that feels uniquely yours enhances your overall well-being and enthusiasm for work.

Crafting a workspace designed for longevity and efficiency involves careful consideration of furniture, technology, storage, and personal touches. Investing in ergonomic furniture and high-quality technology creates a foundation for productivity, while effective storage solutions keep clutter at bay. By infusing your workspace with elements that inspire you, you’ll create an environment that supports not only your work tasks but also your overall well-being. Remember, a well-designed workspace is an investment in your present and future success.

The post Your Comprehensive Guide to Long-Lasting Workspace Essentials appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/home-office/home-office-set-up/comprehensive-guide-long-lasting-workspace-essentials/