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    Tag: Search Engine Optimization

    TikTok Shop in Canada: What It Is, How to Buy & Sell, and How to Get Started

    Posted on by Bernadette Galang

    In Canada, TikTok is immensely popular. According to Statista: “The number of TikTok users in Canada was forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2028 by a total of 1.7 million (+11.12 percent). After the tenth consecutive increasing year, the TikTok user base is estimated to reach 17.02 million and therefore a new peak in 2028.”

    With this kind of current popularity and projected growth, it’s no wonder that Canadian businesses are interested in starting TikTok Shops.

    What is a TikTok Shop?

    TikTok Shop is an in-app shopping feature. It lets brands, creators, and sellers sell directly on TikTok. The attraction that TikTok Shops have is that they combine entertainment with shopping. It’s a growing platform for businesses to reach engaged shoppers. When they shop on TikTok, users don’t have to leave the app so they get an easy shopping experience, and get to know their favourite brands, due to staying engaged with them via brands’ content posted to TikTok. 

    buy your goods using tiktok

    Is TikTok Shop Available in Canada? 

    If you’re wondering how you get a TikTok Shop in Canada, it is said to be on the horizon very shortly. Marketing News Canada reported on May 14, 2025 that it may come soon, so now is a good time to ramp up your TikTok marketing in anticipation of TikTok Shop’s availability. While it’s not a requirement, there are huge advantages to getting established with your business account on TikTok before opening your shop. 

    Why You Should Get Established on TikTok Before Opening Your Shop

    It’s likely you use a content calendar for planning, research, and audience understanding, for all your channels, so it’s important to do so for TikTok, too. Learning about what your target market likes and translating that research into compelling content is vital. Hootsuite recommends doing the same for TikTok while digging into its unique characteristics and tools. Getting your style, visibility and message right on TikTok so it aligns with your brand and your marketing goals is essential.

    Trek Marketing can help you tailor your content to your TikTok audience. Plus, we can help you repurpose your non-TikTok content for this platform. Another big plus Trek Marketing can provide is our understanding of what motivates people and the types of content and calls to action they respond to (what motivates people to buy). We know what works on TikTok and can get your business in front of your audience so they know you and trust you. People who trust you will be more likely to buy from you.

    selling your goods on titktok canada

    How to Sell on TikTok Shop

    To make your shop a success, it’s important to have a plan. Trek Marketing can help you focus on your goals. Who are you marketing to? What actions do you want interested people to take? Maybe you have a book you’re promoting. You might be a fitness guru or someone who provides self-help courses or beauty products and recommendations. Mapping out your goals and how you want to present yourself on TikTok is your first step. Creating content around those goals is next. You might even want to create some content around the theme “how do I buy from TikTok Shop,” to attract buyers searching for that when TikTok Shop becomes available in Canada. Then reviewing analytics and adjusting your content and shop offerings is an ongoing step to make your entire business presence on TikTok more effective.

    Now that you know you have a potential audience of engaged Canadians out there who use TikTok daily, and you’ve worked to establish your TikTok presence, how do you open your shop? Follow these tips:

    • Eligibility: You’ll need a valid Canadian business license and compliance with local rules.
    • Sign Up: Register as a seller, submit documents (like a business license), and get approved in 1–2 days. 
    • Add Products: Upload your items to TikTok Shop and link it to your account.
    • Promote: Use your own videos, LIVE streams, or team up with creators through TikTok’s Affiliate Program.

    So, if you’re asking “how do I sell stuff on TikTok?” the most important thing is to have a plan and align it with user intent.

    Trek Marketing Helps You Build TikTok Revenue

    For Canadians, TikTok Shop is a fresh way to shop or sell. Buyers enjoy a fun, fast shopping experience, while sellers can tap into an active, engaged audience. Start small with affordable items, test ads, and use tools like Shopify integration to simplify things. It’s an exciting opportunity to turn TikTok’s Canadian fan base into customers! 

    Make your TikTok Shop a success with Trek Marketing! Contact us to get your TikTok campaigns thriving, and all the marketing services, support and creativity you need to drive revenue with your shop!

    How to Effectively Present SEO Services to Clients

    Posted on by Bernadette Galang

    SEO is all about improving a website’s placement on search engines like Google so it reaches more people. Clients may not know much about it, and that’s okay. Your job is to make it clear, useful, and relevant to them. With these guidelines, you can learn how to pitch SEO services in a way that’s instructional, relatable, and focused on your clients’ needs.

    big data domain web page seo concept

    What SEO Is and Why It Matters

    SEO is the practice of updating a website so it ranks higher when people search for specific key phrase terms in search engines. This could mean adjusting content, improving site speed, or building links from other reputable sites. Why does it matter? Right now, there are people searching for your client’s products and services. It’s your job to connect customers to your client.

    Imagine a bakery. If it doesn’t show up when someone searches “fresh bread near me,” it’s losing customers to competitors who do. When you talk to clients, frame it simply: SEO makes their website easier to find, which can mean more visitors, more leads, and more sales.

    businessman strategy presentation and ceo

    Getting Ready to Talk to Clients

    The best way to pitch SEO services to clients is to show you understand their world. Preparation turns a generic conversation into one that feels personal and practical. Here’s how to do it:

    • Learn About Their Business: Go through each section of their website. Check their social media. Look at reviews. Notice what’s working—like a great blog they’ve got going—or what’s not, like a site that takes forever to load. Tools like Google’s “Site:” search (“site:theirwebsite.com”) can show you how they’re doing in search results already.
    • Know Their Customers: Figure out who they’re trying to reach. A landscaper’s audience might search “backyard design ideas,” while a dentist’s might look for “teeth whitening costs.” Understanding this helps you explain how SEO can connect them to those people.
    • Highlight Their Challenges: Look for areas that need improvement. Are competitors ranking higher for obvious terms? Is their site missing key information? These are opportunities to show how SEO can help, without making it about “selling” anything.
    • Match Their Goals: Ask what they want: more phone calls, online orders, or just a bigger online presence. Once you know, you can tie SEO directly to that. For example, “If you want more local customers, we can focus on terms that bring them to your door.”

    Your conversation needs to be about solving their problems, not pushing your services.

    view of seo manager holding a paper

    Explaining SEO Services Clearly

    When it’s time for your sales pitch for SEO services, think of it less as a pitch and more as a helpful explanation. Here’s how to approach it:

    • Start with Something They’ll Get: Open with a fact or idea like: “Most people searching for a business like yours will pick one from the first page of Google. SEO can help you be that business.” 
    • Keep It Simple: Skip the tech language unless they ask. Say something like, “We’ll make your website show up higher when people search for what you offer, so more of them visit you.” That’s easier to grasp than talking about meta tags or backlinks.
    • Link It to Their World: For a gym owner, you might say, “We could target ‘fitness classes near me’ so locals find you first.” For a consultant, “We’ll aim for ‘business coaching tips’ to draw in clients who need your expertise.” 
    • Describe What You Do: Highlight benefits. Such as, “We’ll research the best search terms for your business and update your site so it ranks for them. That means more people see you as a trusted option.” 
    • Answer Their Questions: They might ask, “How long will this take?” Be straight: “SEO builds over time. Initial progress can often be seen in 3–6 months.” Case studies can help, but try not to overload people.
    • Wrap Up Simply: End with an easy next step: “If this sounds useful, we can set up a time to dig into what’d work best for you.” It’s low-pressure and keeps things moving.

    This approach makes your SEO services sales pitch feel like a conversation with a purpose. It can help potential clients see how SEO fits their needs.

    Key Takeaways to Share

    Talking about SEO doesn’t need to be complicated or pushy. Focus on what your prospects care about and show how you can make that happen. Explain it in terms they’ll relate to, and let them connect the dots. You can try these steps next time you’re discussing SEO with a client, and you’ll find it’s less about convincing and more about collaborating on something that works for them.

    Maybe you need SEO services and want a personal approach like the one we’ve outlined here. Contact Trek Marketing for a free custom proposal now.

    Top 15 Industries That Highly Need Local SEO

    Posted on by Bernadette Galang

    Just a few years ago, people were still looking up local businesses in the phone book. Pretty soon, everyone had a smartphone and local search went from something we did only on a desktop computer or laptop to second nature. Now we quickly grab our phone or other mobile device and check for “plumber in Vancouver,” or “Vancouver bank,” or whichever local business type we need. We don’t even think about it, and we expect to see a list of search results that answer our query. If you are a business that’s trying to get found and your company name doesn’t come up in local search, that’s definitely costing you business. That’s especially true for certain industries. They face stiff competition and could really benefit from a local SEO company Vancouver competitors likely use to get their businesses visible online.

    Team of professionals discussing customer retention strategies

    Top Industries That Need Local SEO

    Which industries are facing tough competition in local search? Is your industry one of these 15 on the list? Not to worry, because we’ll tell you how to ace local search in a few steps!

    First, we’ll list 15 industries that have a tough time rising to the top in local search:

    • Physicians
    • Dentists
    • Locksmiths
    • Emergency HVAC repair
    • Roofers
    • Restaurants
    • Insurance agents
    • Financial advisors
    • Attorneys
    • Home improvement companies
    • Plumbers
    • Boutique shops
    • Local small retailers
    • Landscape services
    • Veterinary clinics

    These aren’t the only ones who have problems getting found in local search engine search results. There are others, and often they face the same predicaments that plague the listed industries: they’re in competitive markets, and their potential clients frequent review sites (that their local business might not be rated on). Plus, these local companies fight for visibility against national brands and aggregator sites.

    So what’s a Vancouver local business to do? There’s a key method that gets the job done in local search, and that is: consistency.

    Person using tablet to review user-generated content for brand building

    Why Local Search in Vancouver is Important

    Let’s say you own a local pizza restaurant. Maybe you’ve even set up a Google Business Profile and submitted your website to a few local directories. It can be tough keeping all your information consistent. You want to have the same business name, address, phone number and other identifying data identically input in all of your local business profiles. If you misspell a word, or write the address a bit differently, or present your business in a slightly different way on each local site you promote yourself on, you won’t be able to take advantage of a unified business presence online. That’s super important, because search engines like Google won’t be able to connect the dots and push you up in search results. If your hours of operation are outdated or other data is incorrect, people will get confused, and that can keep you from getting business. 

    The answer: A local SEO company, Vancouver situated and aware of how competitive this area can be, will stay on top of every detail. They will diligently and consistently keep your business information accurate and attractive to searchers, and easily digestible to search engines.

    Professional optimizing ecommerce site strategy on MacBook for global reach

    What Can a Local SEO Campaign Do for Your Business?

    What’s fascinating is right now there are people in Vancouver searching for what you do. People are querying for “Vancouver restaurant,” “plumber in Vancouver,” and many other services. You don’t want to miss out on these potential customers. Here are a few strategies a Vancouver local SEO firm can implement for you, so you can keep making pizza, installing roofs, fixing broken pipes, practicing dentistry or whatever it is you do, without concerning yourself with day-to-day SEO tasks. The goal is to get you found online so your phone rings and your contact forms come in with the leads you want.

    How do local SEO services work?

    1. Your SEO company will set up and maintain your Google Business Profile. Even if you already have one, it’s important to keep it up to date and check that it’s accurate.
    2. Your SEO provider will ensure you’re in the local directories and local review sites that relate to your business. So, if you’re a roofer, and there’s a local building association website that offers a resource page, they’ll work to get your website linked there. Plus, there are many local directories and organizations, such as the boards of trade, where your SEO agency can list your business.
    3. Onsite work: This means content that is built for, or updated on, your website. It includes checking and updating your current website copy and creating blogs, articles, and other content assets that reinforce your local business’s expertise.
    4. Your SEO company will also check technical aspects of your website that may be blocking you from being indexed on search engines. Slow site speed is another area that can keep you from reaching clients. All technologically-based barriers to visibility will be reviewed.

    Those are but a few strategies; your campaign will be customized to your needs. Results depend on a consistent local SEO for local industries campaign. It must signal that you are the one to call; you are the local expert people need. 

    The result: All parts of your campaign will work together to send consistent trust signals to humans and search engines. Trust is a great motivator to get people to buy.

    MacBook screen showing brand strategy tools for digital equity

    Consistent Campaigns = Measurable Success

    Finally, your SEO provider will keep an eye on how everything’s performing. Using tools like Google Analytics and GBP insights, they’ll track how many people see your profile, click to call, or ask for directions. They’ll note what is working (for example, if reviews increase your calls) and what needs tweaking (such as if a nearby town starts searching more) from this data. You’ll get regular updates so you can see how your campaign is bringing in new leads. Built for results, this strategy increases your local visibility and builds your authority.

    Group discussing social media engagement strategy in a meeting

    Next Steps: Get Your Own Local SEO Campaign

    Local SEO can be a tough nut to crack when you do it on your own. Often, that’s because you’re paying attention to running your business and the consistency that needs to happen with a local SEO campaign (onsite, offsite, directory submissions, content creation, link building and much more) can easily fall through the cracks when you’re busy. 

    Trek Marketing offers extensive local SEO experience. In fact, we’re experts at optimizing a website for specific local geographic searches. Plus, we have the client testimonials that prove we get results.
    Done looking for “local SEO services near me” or “local search engine optimization Vancouver” without success? Call Trek Marketing today (855.686.4649 ext.707) or contact us online and see how we can drive more revenue to your business.

    How do you know if you need local SEO?

    Posted on by Alex Wilks

    If your business serves a specific geographic area, like Greater Vancouver, having a strong online presence in local search results is essential. Whether you own a small coffee shop, a law firm, or a retail store, potential customers are searching for services like yours online every day. But if your business isn’t appearing in search results, you’re missing out on valuable traffic. This is where local SEO services come in. By investing in local SEO Vancouver strategies, you can help to improve visibility, attract more local, desirable customers, and essentially grow your business overall. But how do you know if local SEO is needed? Here are the key signs to indicate that it’s time to start investing in and optimizing your online presence.

    Your Business Relies on Local Customers

    If you operate a brick-and-mortar business or serve a specific area, local SEO is a must. Whether you operate a restaurant, dental clinic, or boutique shop, your customers are likely searching for businesses near them. By working with a local SEO company in Vancouver, you can ensure your business ranks higher when users search for services in your area. Optimizing your mobile local SEO will also help you to reach potential customers who search for businesses on their smartphones.

    Signs You Need Local SEO: 

    • You serve a specific region, city, or neighbourhood.
    • You want more foot traffic to your physical store.
    • You rely on in-person interactions with customers. 

    Your Business Doesn’t Show Up in Local Search Results

    Try searching for your business category followed by your city—for example, “plumbing in Vancouver” or “best coffee shop near me.” If your business isn’t showing up on the first page of Google, you’re losing potential customers to competitors. 

    Having a professional local SEO marketing Vancouver strategy ensures that your business appears in relevant searches. By using local SEO optimization tips, such as optimizing your Google My Business profile and getting local backlinks, you can significantly improve your ranking. 

    Signs You Need Local SEO: 

    • Your business doesn’t appear in Google Maps or local search results.
    • Competitors rank higher than you for industry-related keywords.
    • Customers say they had trouble finding your business online. 

    You Have a Google My Business, But It’s Not Optimized

    Google My Business (GMB) is one of the most important tools for SEO services for local business success. If your listing is incomplete or lacks customer reviews, you’re missing out on valuable search visibility. Be sure to optimize your GMB profile with updated contact information, high-quality images, and customer reviews to boost your rankings. A local SEO company in Vancouver, like Trek Marketing, can help to manage your profile and ensure that it performs and continues to perform well in search results.  

    Signs You Need Local SEO:

    • Your Google My Business listing is incomplete or outdated.
    • You’re not receiving customer reviews or engagement.
    • You haven’t optimized your listing with keywords and images. 

    Your Website Isn’t Mobile-Friendly 

    Most local searches happen on mobile devices, making mobile local SEO essential for your business. If your website isn’t mobile-friendly, potential customers may leave before taking any time to explore your vast services and products. However, this is easily avoided by optimizing for mobile search, which includes faster page loading, easier navigation, and click-to-call features. A provider of local SEO optimization services can help to ensure your website meets these standards and improve the user experience overall.  

    Signs You Need Local SEO:

    • Your website loads slowly on mobile devices.
    • Users struggle to navigate or contact your business from their phones.
    • Your site isn’t optimized for mobile search queries. 

    You’re Not Using Location-Specific Keywords

    Keywords play a critical role in local SEO. If your website content doesn’t include location-based terms like “best bakery in Vancouver” or “Vancouver roofing services,’ you’re missing out on local traffic. A local SEO services Vancouver provider can conduct keyword research for you and implement other local SEO optimization tips to help you better rank for relevant searches. Optimizing content with geographic keywords ensures that customers in your area can easily find you, which is better for your business!

    Signs You Need Local SEO:

    • Your website doesn’t include location-based keywords.
    • You’re not ranking for searches specific to your city or neighbourhood.
    • Competitors are ranking for your target keywords instead. 

    You’re Not Getting Enough Local Leads

    Even if you have a website, are you getting enough calls, inquiries, or foot traffic? If not, your local SEO strategy may be lacking. Additionally, local SEO services help you attract high-quality leads by ensuring your business appears higher up in search results. Through local SEO optimization services, businesses can improve visibility, drive more relevant traffic, and increase conversions. 

    Signs You Need Local SEO

    • You have low website traffic despite being in a busy area.
    • Your online leads are not converting into customers.
    • You’re struggling to compete with other local businesses. 

    Your Competitors are Investing in Local SEO

    If your competitors rank higher in search results, they’re likely investing in local SEO marketing in Vancouver. Businesses that prioritize local SEO gain a competitive edge by appearing in more searches, earning more reviews, and generating more traffic. It’s best to work with a local SEO company in Vancouver, you can implement a tailored strategy to outrank competitors and establish a more dominant presence in local searches.  

    Signs You Need Local SEO

    • Your competitors dominate search results for local keywords.
    • They have more customer reviews and online visibility. 
    • You’re losing potential customers to competing businesses. 

    So, Do You Need Local SEO?

    Local SEO is essential for any business that relies on local customers. Whether you’re looking to improve your search rankings, optimize your Google My Business profile, or enhance your mobile local SEO, the right strategy makes all the difference. So, if your business is struggling with online visibility, is receiving low website traffic, or is ranking behind competitors, it may be time to invest in local SEO services in Vancouver. Partnering with a professional local SEO company in Vancouver ensures that your business is optimized for local search success. Just watch your local visibility grow!

    Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Drop a comment below to let us know which signs you ticked in our blog. 

    What is affiliate marketing and how does it work?

    Posted on by Alex Wilks

    Affiliate marketing has emerged as a lucrative opportunity for businesses looking to monetize their online presence. But what is affiliate marketing and how does it function? While not challenging to understand, it’s best to spend some added time exploring the mechanics and potential benefits. Especially for companies who’re looking to utilize this digital marketing strategy to grow and build their businesses. 

    A Better Understanding of Affiliate Marketing 

    Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing strategy where businesses reward affiliates for driving traffic or sales to their products or services through the affiliate’s marketing efforts. It operates on a mission basis, meaning that the affiliates earn a percentage of the revenue that’s generated from their referrals. 

    Key Players in Affiliate Marketing 

    1. Advertisers (Merchants): These are businesses or individuals who create products or services. They leverage affiliate marketing to expand their reach and boost sales through the efforts of affiliates. 
    1. Affiliates (Publishers): Affiliates are individuals or companies that promote advertisers’ products or services through various marketing channels. These channels can include websites, blogs, social media, email newsletters, and more. 
    1. Affiliate Networks: Often acting as intermediaries, affiliate networks connect advertisers with affiliates. They provide the infrastructure and tools necessary for tracking affiliate activities, managing payments, and ensuring smooth collaboration between parties. 

    How Does Affiliate Marketing Work?

    The mechanics of affiliate marketing are straightforward and powerful:

    1. Affiliate Links and Tracking: Advertisers provide unique affiliate links to affiliates. These links contain special codes that track when a user clicks on them and makes a purchase. 
    1. Visitor Conversion: When a visitor referred by an affiliate makes a purchase or performs a desired action (such as signing up for a newsletter), the affiliate earns a commission. This is tracked through cookies or other tracking methods implemented by the affiliate network. 
    1. Commission Structure: Commissions can vary widely, depending on the agreement between the advertiser and the affiliate. They may be based on a percentage of sales, a fixed amount per conversion, or other performance metrics. 

    Benefits of Affiliate Marketing

    1. Cost-Effective: For advertisers, affiliate marketing minimizes upfront costs since payment is based on performance. 
    1. Expanded Reach: Affiliates can leverage their existing audience or marketing channels to promote products, reaching potential customers who might not have encountered the product otherwise. 

    3. Diverse Marketing Channels: From blogs and websites to social media platforms and email newsletters, affiliates can utilize various channels to maximize exposure.

    Challenges and How to Overcome Them

    Despite the above advantages, free affiliate marketing programs have their challenges:

    1. High Competition: To stand out, we recommend that you create high-quality content and focus on niche products.
    1. Traffic Generation: Use SEO, social media, and affiliate marketing ads to drive targeted visitors.
    1. Tracking Issues: Ensure you use reliable affiliate marketing tools for accurate tracking and reporting. 

    Affiliate Marketing Tools and Programs

    To succeed, both advertisers and affiliates should utilize a variety of affiliate marketing tools and programs:

    1. Affiliate Marketing Tools: These include tracking software, analytics tools, and performance dashboards provided by affiliate networks or third-party providers.
    1. Affiliate Marketing Websites: Platforms like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, and Commission Junction connect advertisers with a vast network of affiliates, facilitating collaboration and growth.
    1. Free Affiliate Marketing Programs: Some affiliate networks offer free entry for affiliates, allowing them to join without upfront costs and start promoting products immediately.

    Top Affiliate Marketing Tools for Success

    To maximize earnings, affiliates rely on affiliate marketing tools like:

    • Google Analytics: Tracks website traffic and user behaviour. 
    • SEMrush: Helps with SEO optimization and keyword research.
    • ThirstyAffiliates: Manages cloaks affiliate links.
    • ClickMeter: Tracks and optimizes affiliate campaigns. 

    Choosing the Best Affiliate Marketing Program

    When selecting an affiliate program, consider factors like commission rates, product relevance to your audience, cookie duration (the time frame during which affiliates can earn commissions after a click), and the reputation of the advertiser. 

    Summary

    In conclusion, affiliate marketing represents a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership between advertisers and affiliates. By understanding its mechanism and leveraging the right tools, businesses can expand their market reach, while affiliates can monetize their online presence effectively.  

    Don’t forget to harness the power of affiliate marketing ads by utilizing effective affiliate marketing tools and forging strong partnerships with affiliate marketing partners and/or business to unlock new growth opportunities. 

    Do you need help choosing the best affiliate marketing program? Drop a comment below to get in contact with a team member who knows the ins and out of affiliate marketing partners and affiliate marketing websites.

    Long-Tail Keywords: Key Benefits and How to Use Them

    Posted on by Alex Wilks

    When orchestrating an effective SEO strategy, understanding the importance of long-tail keywords is crucial for driving targeted traffic to your website. These keywords might seem like small details, but they hold immense power in improving your search rankings and attracting the attention of your target audience. So, whether you’re just starting your online business venture or you’re a skilled specialist who is looking for some added pointers, we’re here to help you enhance your strategy in a way that works. 

    What are Long-Tail Keywords?

    Long-tail keywords are phrases that contain three or more words and are highly specific to a particular topic. Unlike broad or generic short-tail keywords, which typically consist of one or two words (ex. Digital marketing), long-tail keywords are more descriptive and focused. This means that instead of targeting a simple word like “shoes”, you can target “best running shoes for the gym.”

    The key difference between long-tail keywords vs. short-tail is their level of specificity. Short-tail keywords have high search volume but are very competitive and general. In contrast, long-tailed keywords are less competitive, targeting more specific queries that often result in higher conversion rates because the search intent is clearer. When users search for long-tail keywords, they are often closer to making a purchase decision, which makes these keywords more valuable for your business. 

    Benefits of Long-Tail Keywords

    Using long-tail keywords in your content offers several benefits that possess the power to enhance your website’s SEO performance. 

    Here are some advantages:

    • Less Competition: Since long-tailed keywords are more specific, they typically face less competition compared to short-tailed keywords. This makes it easier for your website to rank high in search engine results pages (SERPs).
    • Higher Conversion Rates: Long-tail keywords often lead to higher conversion rates because they match the exact intent of users. For example, someone searching for “best running shoes for the gym” is likely looking to buy, whereas someone searching for “shoes” might just be in the browsing phase. 
    • Improved Search Engine Rankings: Focusing on long-tail keywords for SEO can help to improve your overall rankings. Since search engines prioritize content that is highly relevant to specific queries, you’re more likely to be seen as an authoritative source for that particular topic. 
    • Better User Engagement: Long-tail keywords often result in better user engagement, as users who find exactly what they are looking for are more likely to stay on your site longer and engage with your content.
    • Better User Engagement: Long-tail keywords often result in better user engagement, as users who find exactly what they are looking for are more likely to stay on your site longer and engage with your content.
    • Cost-Effective: If you’re using paid search advertising (PPC—Pay-per-click advertising), targeting long-tail keywords is typically more cost-effective. These keywords tend to have lower cost-per-click (CPC) rates due to less competition, which makes them a great choice for PPC campaigns.  

    How to Find Long-Tail Keywords

    Now that we understand the benefits, the next step is to learn how to find long-tail keywords that will help drive targeted traffic to your website. 

    Here are some methods to get started:

    1. Use Keyword Research Tools: One of the most effective ways to find long-tail keywords is by using keyword research tools. Google’s Keyword Planner and/or SEMrush are great platforms for discovering long-tail variations of your primary keywords. These tools also help to give you insights into keyword volume, competition, and related searches. 
    1. Google Autocomplete: This feature is a simple but powerful tool for discovering long-tail keywords. Start typing a query into Google’s search bar and note the suggestions that are popping up. These are actual search terms that people are using and can help you identify long-tail keywords related to your business. 
    1. Use Google “People Also Ask” and “Related Searches”: When you perform a search on Google, you’ll often see a “People Also Ask” section. This provides a list of related questions that users commonly ask. These questions can serve as great long-tail keywords to target in your content. Additionally, scrolling to the bottom of the search results page will show “Related Searches,” which can offer further ideas for long-tail keywords in SEO. 
    1. Analyze Competitors: Analyzing the keywords that your competitors are ranking for can also provide you with valuable insights. Tools like SEMrush allow you to see what keywords are driving traffic to other websites in your field, which helps you discover these missed opportunities. 
    1. Answering Common Questions: If you frequently get questions from your customers or audience, these queries can be excellent sources for long-tail keywords. Consider using platforms like Reddit to see what your audience is asking and incorporate these ideas as part of your expanding content strategy.

    How to Search for Long-Tail Keywords

    Once you’ve identified potential long-tail keywords, the next step is to determine how to strategically use them in your content.

    Here’s how you can search long-tail keywords to achieve optimal results for SEO: 

    • Check Search Volume: Not all long-tailed keywords are created equal. Before integrating them into your content, check their search volume to ensure there’s enough demand. You can use tools like Google Keyword Planner to assess this. 
    • Focus on Intent: When searching for long-tail keywords in SEO, it’s important to understand the intent behind the search. Are people looking for information, products, services, or solutions? By aligning your long-tail keywords with the user’s intent, you can create content that meets their needs and increases your chances of ranking. 
    • Long-Tail Keyword Variations: Don’t just target one specific long-tail keyword. Include variations of that keyword throughout your content. For example, instead of focusing solely on “best running shoes for the gym,” consider using related variations like “top shoes for the gym” or “running shoes for people who love the gym.” This will help broaden your search while maintaining specificity. 

    What are your plans to drive more targeted traffic back to your website? Drop a comment below to tell us more.

    Your complete guide to creating the best seasonal content

    Posted on by Alex Wilks

    Seasonal content marketing is one of the most effective strategies for engaging your audience, driving traffic, and boosting sales throughout the year. By leveraging the natural rhythm of holidays, seasons, and cultural events, businesses can create timely and relevant content that resonates with their target demographic. So, if you’re looking to learn more about how to effectively plan and orchestrate seasonal content for your brand, continue reading the layout of our guide below.  

    What is seasonal content?

    Seasonal content refers to the creation of marketing materials—such as blog posts, social media updates, product promotions, videos, and more—that are centered around specific times of the year. This could include holidays like Halloween or Christmas, or broader seasonal themes like summer, back-to-school, or Valentine’s Day. It also extends to cultural events, awareness months, and even weather-related events like “spring cleaning.”

    Seasonal content marketing allows you to tap into the heightened emotions, shopping behaviours, and interests that naturally occur during these periods. For example, content about summer travel might be popular in the months leading up to kid’s summer break, while back-to-school content will resonate most in the late summer weeks

    What do you need to consider about plotting your seasonal content for the whole year?

    When planning your seasonal content strategy, it’s essential to take a long-term, year-round approach. You should map out the entire year to ensure that you’re covering key dates and periods relevant to your audience. 

    Here are some important factors to consider:

    • Know your audience: Before you plot out your seasonal content calendar, you should first understand the preferences, interests, and behaviours of your audience. If you’re targeting parents, back-to-school season and holidays like Mother’s Day might be more important. For e-commerce businesses, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas might be your focus. Just be sure to tailor your seasonal content to the specific needs and desires of your audience at various points throughout the year.  
    • Timing is everything: One of our key seasonal content tips is to release content in advance. For example, if you plan to create content around Christmas, aim to publish or promote it well before the holiday. This gives your audience time to digest the content, make purchases, or engage with your promotions. Similarly, don’t forget to prepare for “off-season” times, when people might be looking for something different, such as post-holiday deals or early spring content. 
    • Balance evergreen with seasonal content: While seasonal content is timely, it’s also important to maintain evergreen content that can be promoted year-round. For instance, if you’re running a clothing store, your winter collection might be seasonal, but tips on how to dress for cold weather can be a year-round post that can be linked to seasonally relevant promotions. A good mix of both types of content will keep your site fresh and engaging all year long. 
    • Leverage SEO opportunities: Creating a seasonal SEO content strategy is critical for maximizing the organic reach of your posts. As the seasons change, people search for relevant terms on search engines. Optimizing your content with seasonal keywords, such as “summer fashion trends” or “Christmas gift ideas,” will help your content rank higher and attract more traffic. The right seasonal SEO content can give you a competitive edge and boost visibility during busy times of the year. 

    Things to consider when creating seasonal content marketing 

    Creating compelling seasonal content marketing requires more than just brainstorming ideas and publishing them at the right time. 

    Here are some things to keep in mind when crafting your content:

    • Relevance and timeliness: Seasonal content needs to speak to what your audience is thinking about and doing during that specific time. Don’t force a connection that doesn’t naturally exist. Instead, focus on how your products or services can meet their needs during that time of year. If you sell swimwear, focus on summer vacation content; if you sell gadgets, target back-to-school tech items. Keep the content relevant and it will naturally attract the right audience. 
    • Multi-channel approach: Your seasonal content marketing needs to be seen across multiple platforms. Be sure to publish your seasonal content across your website, social media, email newsletters, or podcasts. Since each platform has its format and audience, you must maximize your content’s reachability by making it adaptable. 
    • Creative visuals and themes: Seasonal content is all about setting the right mood and visuals play a huge role in conveying that. Use holiday-appropriate imagery, colours, and designs that evoke the feelings of the season. For example, cozy fall imagery featuring warm colours and textured backgrounds would be ideal for autumn content, while bright, sunny visuals with beach settings are perfect for summer. Make sure your visuals are aligned with the tone of the season and be consistent across all marketing channels. 
    • Optimize for seasonal SEO: Seasonal SEO content is vital to the success of your marketing efforts. People are actively searching for content that aligns with the season. Ensure your content is optimized for season-specific keywords, meta descriptions, and alt texts. For example, if you’re targeting a summer campaign, include phrases like “summer sale 2025” to rank better on search engines. Using a strong seasonal SEO content strategy will aim to increase visibility, boost website traffic, and potentially lead to more conversions. 

    Through planning, creativity, and attention to SEO, you can map out a year-long content calendar, better understand your audience, and keep your brand at the top of the minds of your customers. Don’t forget to rely on our seasonal content tips if you need help crafting an engaging and thriving strategy. 

    What SEO content techniques do you think will be most effective for your strategy planning? Let us know in the comments below. 

    What are Google Shopping results and how can they affect your brand?

    Posted on by Alex Wilks

    In the world of e-commerce, visibility is key. As consumers increasingly turn to Google to search for products, businesses must understand how Google Shopping results can impact their brand and sales. Whether you’re a small business owner or a large retail operation, knowing how to navigate Google’s shopping results can make a significant difference in how potential customers discover your products. Let’s explore this concept, how it works, and how it can influence your brand’s online presence. And then if you need added assistance, contact us to get you started. 

    What are Google Shopping results?

    Google Shopping results are the product listings that appear when a user searches for a specific product on Google. These results typically show up in the “shopping” tab or on the Google result page itself, often in a carousel format, displaying images of products, prices, ratings, and merchant names. These results are distinct from organic search results and are directly linked to Google’s paid advertising platform, Google Ads. However, there are also organic options available for product listings, which are referred to as Google Shopping organic results.

    While paid listings can drive immediate traffic to your site, Google Shopping organic results provide a valuable alternative for brands that want to achieve visibility without the ongoing cost of ads. Organic shopping results are based on the relevance of a product to the search query overall quality of the listing, including factors like product data accuracy, website user experience, and SEO efforts. 

    How can Google Shopping results affect your brand?

    Google Shopping results can significantly affect your brand’s visibility, traffic, and sales. Appearing in Google Shopping local results or Google Shopping organic results can help your products stand out, especially for users who are actively looking to make a purchase. 

    Here’s how these results can impact your business: 

    • Increased visibility and traffic: When your product appears in Google Shopping results, you’re placing your brand directly in front of potential customers who are already interested in purchasing. The presence of a product image, price, and rating can catch the eye of users and encourage them to click through to your website. Higher visibility in Google Shopping organic results means more organic traffic, which can lead to more conversions without the need for a hefty ad spend. 
    • Enhanced trust and credibility: Products that appear in Google Shopping local results or organic shopping listings often convey a sense of credibility. If your product is showcased in a prominent spot, it signals to consumers that your brand is relevant, trusted, and competitive within your category. 
    • Better local reach for businesses with physical stores: Google Shopping local results can be particularly impactful. These results show product availability in nearby stores, which can encourage local shoppers to visit your location and make a purchase in person. Optimizing your Google Merchant Center account and providing accurate location details can help increase your chances of appearing in Google Shopping local results, giving you an edge in local search. 
    • Competitive Advantage: Appearing in both organic and paid Google Shopping results puts you ahead of competitors who may not have optimized their listings. By making your product easy to find through both organic and paid channels, you ensure that potential customers are more likely to discover your brand before they encounter your competitors. 

    How to get Google Shopping results?

    The key to achieving a presence in Google Shopping results lies in understanding how the platform works. Whether you aim to rank in Google Shopping organic results or pay for placement through Google Ads, the process requires strategic optimization.

    Here’s how to get started:

    • Set up Google Merchant Center: To get listed in Google Shopping results, you first need to set up a Google Merchant Center account. This platform is where you upload your product feed, including details such as product names, prices, descriptions, and images. Your product data needs to be accurate and up-to-date to ensure that your listenings meet Google’s quality standard for visibility.  
    • Optimize product listings: If you want to rank in Google Shopping organic results, it’s essential to optimize your product listings for relevance. This involves using high-quality images, accurate product descriptions, and detailed product attributes like sizes, colors, and materials. Additionally, product reviews and ratings can improve your chances of ranking higher in Google mobile search results. 
    • Improve your website’s SEO: Google also uses your website’s SEO to determine which products appear in Google Shopping organic results. Make sure your website is optimized for mobile and desktop, as Google prioritizes sites that provide  a good user experience. Fast load times, easy navigation, and clear calls to action are essential to improving your rankings in both organic and local results. 
    • Leverage Google Ads for paid listings: If you want immediate visibility, setting up a Google Ads campaign is an effective way to get your products featured in Google Shopping results. Paid ads can place your products in the premium spots of the Google result page, which increases the likelihood of clicks and sales. 

    How does your business increase brand visibility for potential customers? Drop a comment below to share with our readers. 

    How Core Web Vitals Impact your SEO rankings

    Posted on by Alex Wilks

    In 2024, Google continues to prioritize user experience and one of the most significant ways it measures this is through Core Web Vitals. These are a set of metrics designed to assess the speed, responsiveness, and visual stability of a webpage. Core Web Vitals play a crucial role in determining how well users interact with your website, and, as of this year, they have become a key ranking factor in Google’s search algorithm. 

    For website owners and digital marketers, understanding how to optimize Core Web Vitals is now more critical than ever. In this post, we’ll break down the Core Web Vitals metrics, explain their impact on your SEO rankings, and provide actionable tips on improving your site’s performance. Whether you’re looking to boost your search engine visibility or create a smoother user experience, optimizing Core Web Vitals is essential for success in 2025. Are you ready to start exploring how to enhance them for better performance and rankings? Continue reading to learn more. 

    What are Core Web Vitals?

    Core Web Vitals are a set of performance metrics created by Google to measure key aspects of user experience, focusing on loading speed, interactivity, and visual stability. As Google Core Web Vitals have become a crucial ranking factor in 2024, understanding how important Core Web Vitals are for SEO is essential for website owners. 

    Here’s a quick overview of the three primary Core Web Vitals metrics: 

    • Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): LCP measures how quickly the largest content element (like an image of text) loads. A good LCP is under 2.5 seconds for a better user experience and SEO performance.
    • First Input Delay (FID): FID tracks the time it takes for your page to respond to the first user interaction (ex. clicking a button). An optimal FID is under 100 milliseconds, ensuring smooth interactivity. 
    • Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): CLS measures visual stability by tracking unexpected layout shifts while the page loads. A CLD score below 0.1 ensures a stable and pleasant browsing experience.

    Understanding how important Core Web Vitals are and optimizing the Core Web Vitals metrics can significantly improve your site’s user experience and SEO rankings. 

    Why are Core Web Vitals Important for SEO?

    Google Core Web Vitals are now integral to SEO because they directly impact how Google ranks pages in search results. This is why understanding Core Web Vitals for SEO is essential when webmasters are aiming to improve their site’s performance and visibility. 

    Google’s Focus on User Experience (UX) 

    Google has increasingly prioritized user experience (UX) as a key factor in determining search rankings, and Google Core Web Vitals are a crucial part of that. With Core Web Vitals in SEO, optimizing for speed, interactivity, and stability ensures your site meets the high stands that Google sets for a seamless UX. 

    Correlation Between Good CWV Scores and Higher Rankings

    There is a strong correlation between good Core Web Vitals scores and higher search rankings. When you focus on how Core Web Vitals are a ranking factor, you’re not just improving performance but also boosting your chances of ranking higher in Google’s search results. 

    Impact on Bounce Rates and Engagement

    Poor Core Web Vitals scores can increase bounce rates, as users are less likely to stay on slow, unstable websites. Core Web Vitals in SEO helps to reduce these bounce rates by ensuring a smoother, more engaging browsing experience, leading to longer site visits and better user retention.

    How Core Web Vitals Affect Your Website’s SEO Rankings

    • Direct Impact: Core Web Vitals directly contribute to overall page experience signals, helping Google evaluate factors like loading speed, interactivity, and visual stability, which impact a site’s ranking.
    • Indirect Impact: User behaviour metrics, such as dwell time and click-through rate, are influenced by Core Web Vitals, as faster, smoother pages encourage users to stay longer and engage more with your content.
    • Local SEO Implications: For mobile users in local searches, Core Web Vitals play a crucial role in improving the user experience, which can directly affect rankings since mobile-friendly and fast-loading pages are prioritized in local results. 

    Tools to Measure Core Web Vitals

    These tools not only show how well your site performs but also offer recommendations on how to fix Core Web Vitals, helping you optimize for better user experience and higher search rankings. 

    • Google PageSpeed Insights: Google PageSpeed Insights provides detailed performance data on your website’s Core Web Vitals, offering suggestions on how to improve loading speed, interactivity, and visual stability. 
    • Lighthouse (via Chrome DevTools): Lighthouse performs an in-depth audit of your site’s performance, including Core Web Vitals, and provides actionable recommendations for optimization. 
    • Web Vitals Chrome Extension: The Web Vitals Chrome Extension offers real-time data on your site’s Core Web Vitals, allowing you to quickly track LCP, FID, and CLS directly in your browser. 
    • Search Console’s Core Web Vitals Report: Google Search Console’s Core Web Vitals Report offers insights into how your site is performing across all pages, highlighting areas for improvement based on real user data. 

    The Role of Professional SEO Services in Optimizing Core Web Vitals

    Optimizing Core Web Vitals (CWV) can be a complex task, especially for businesses that may not have the time or expertise to manage performance issues. While tools like PageSpeed Insights and Search Console provide valuable insights, professional SEO services bring a deeper understanding and more effective strategies to tackle these problems. Experts can analyze your site thoroughly, identifying specific CWV-related issues that may not be immediately apparent and can implement targeted solutions to improve loading speed, interactivity, and visual stability. 

    One such service, offered by Trek Marketing, is designed to enhance your site’s performance through ongoing Core Web Vitals monitoring and tailored SEO strategies. Our team of professionals uses advanced tools and techniques to pinpoint areas for improvement, helping businesses understand how to fix Core Web Vitals quickly. With our in-depth expertise,they ensure that your website meets the latest SEO standards, leading to better user experience, higher search rankings, and improved conversion rates. 

    By partnering with experts like Trek Marketing, businesses can stay ahead of the competition, ensuring their sites are optimized for both users and search engines. Whether you’re looking for analytics reports or a comprehensive SEO strategy, we provide reports that can be used to boost your Core Web Vitals and enhance your website’s performance. 

    Do you have any other questions about how our SEO service works? Drop a comment below to get in touch with an SEO Specialist. 

    How to incorporate search marketing into your business strategy

    Posted on by Alex Wilks

    Consumers today rely heavily on search engines to discover and purchase products. They use search to find information, compare prices, read reviews, and identify brands that match their needs. A strong search marketing strategy is key in guiding consumers through this journey. By optimizing content for relevant keywords, brands increase their visibility and attract potential buyers at the moment of intent. Search marketing influences buying decisions by ensuring products appear in front of consumers when they’re actively looking to buy. This helps create trust and drives conversions, making a search a critical component of the modern shopping experience. 

    What is search marketing?

    Search marketing is the practice of using search engines to promote and advertise products or services. It includes both Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM) strategies. SEO strategies focus on optimizing website content to rank higher in organic search results, improving visibility without paying for ads. In contrast, SEM strategies involve paid advertising, such as Google Ads, to increase visibility through sponsored lists. By combining SEO and SEM, businesses can effectively drive traffic to their websites, enhance brand awareness, and ultimately increase conversions. A well-rounded search marketing strategy helps businesses connect with customers at the right moment. 

    How can businesses take advantage of search marketing?

    Businesses can take advantage of search marketing by understanding “what is search marketing” and leveraging both SEO and SEM strategies to reach potential customers. By optimizing their online presence, businesses can increase visibility, drive more traffic, and ultimately boost sales.

    Here’s how businesses can benefit: 

    • Increase visibility: Through SEO strategies, businesses can optimize their website to rank higher in organic search results, making it easier for customers to find them.
    • Target intentional customers: SEM strategies, like Google Ads, allow businesses to target specific keywords and show ads to users who are actively searching for similar products or services.
    • Improve credibility: A well-executed search marketing strategy builds trust with consumers, especially through high organic rankings and relevant paid ads.
    • Cost-effective marketing: Search marketing is often more cost-effective than traditional advertising because businesses pay only when customers click on ads (PPC).
    • Measure success: Both SEO and SEM allow businesses to track results and optimize campaigns for better ROI.

    By combining both, businesses can maximize their search marketing efforts and drive long-term growth. 

    The role of SEO and PPC in search marketing

    SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and PPC (Pay-Per-Click) are both essential components of search marketing, each playing a unique role in driving traffic and conversions. SEO focuses on optimizing website content to improve organic search rankings, increasing visibility without direct costs. It’s a long-term strategy that builds credibility and trust. On the other hand, PPC is a paid strategy where businesses bid on keywords to display ads at the top of search results, offering immediate visibility and targeted reach. Combining both services ensures a comprehensive search marketing approach, maximizing both organic and paid opportunities to capture potential customers. 

    Building an effective search marketing strategy

    Building an effective search marketing strategy involves a mix of SEO and PPC tactics designed to increase visibility, drive traffic, and convert leads.

    Here are some key tips to create a successful strategy:

    • Keyword research: Identify relevant, high-traffic keywords to target both organically and through paid ads. 
    • Optimize website content: Use SEO strategies to enhance your website’s content and improve its ranking in search results. 
    • Leverage paid ads: Use PPC campaigns like Google Ads to target specific audiences and drive immediate traffic. 
    • Track performance: Monitor metrics like click-through rates, conversion rates, and ROI to refine your strategy. 

    For expert guidance and tailored solutions, we can help you build a search marketing strategy that aligns with your business goals and drives results. Our team specializes in both SEO and PPC to create a comprehensive approach that maximizes your online presence and growth. 

    Are you ready to incorporate search marketing into your business strategy?

    Does your current search marketing strategy include all the relevant steps? Drop a comment below to start a conversation and get advice from our team.