How Long Does SEO Really Take?

So, you’re delving into the world of SEO. You’re optimizing keywords, refining internal linking, and meticulously structuring your website’s architecture. Now, you’re curious: How long until you see results? And what can you expect those results to look like?

The short answer: SEO results usually start trickling in after about six months. But, you’ll likely see the best results in about two years.

Why the long wait, you ask? Let’s delve into it.

Why Does SEO Take So Long?

Ever wondered why SEO seems like such a slow burn compared to other digital marketing tactics? Well, there are a few reasons behind the scenes that shed some light on this.

First off, let’s talk about Google. When it comes to SEO, Google’s the big player, and it takes its sweet time to find, crawl, and index pages on your website. So, even if you’re churning out top-notch content, Google needs a bit of time to catch up and recognize your efforts.

Then there’s the matter of implementing SEO best practices. It’s not just a matter of flipping a switch and voila! Your site is optimized. Nope, it takes time to sprinkle those keywords, optimize those meta tags, and tweak those headings across all your pages. Plus, you’ve got to prove to Google that you’re in it for the long haul by consistently updating and improving your site.

And let’s not forget about content creation. Sure, you want to flood your site with fresh, juicy content, but that takes time too. From brainstorming ideas to writing and editing, each piece of content requires its own little slice of time before it’s ready to hit the web.

So, while SEO might not deliver instant gratification like some other marketing tactics, remember: good things come to those who wait (and optimize).

SEO Progress Over Time: Insights from Real Data

Let’s examine the data to gain insight into the time it truly takes to see results from SEO efforts. Drawing from a study conducted by Neil Patel, we’ll explore the progress of websites actively engaged in SEO activities, which includes regularly publishing new content, optimizing code, increasing backlinks, and improving loading times, among other strategies.

The results?

  • In the first 6 months, they saw an increase in organic search traffic by 11.4%.
  • In the second 6 months, they saw an increase of 9.58% over the first 6 months.
  • And in the second year, they saw an increase of 49.4% on average over the 1st year.
  • In year 3 they saw an increase of 30.7% over year 2.
  • And in year 4 they saw additional growth of 13.5%.

Keep in mind this data is averaged out. But, it can give you a good idea of what to expect when you consistently contribute to an efficient SEO strategy.

SEO Growth Timeline: What to Expect

Not sure exactly what to expect when you decide to focus on SEO? Let’s take a look at a potential timeline.

Month 1-6: Building a Foundation

During the initial six months of actively focusing on SEO, you’ll be laying the groundwork for future growth. This period is characterized by research, planning, and technical optimizations to improve your website’s visibility and performance.

Research and Planning: Conduct in-depth research on your industry, target audience, and competitors. Identify relevant keywords and develop a strategic SEO plan.

Technical Optimization: Implement technical improvements to enhance website performance, including on-page optimizations, mobile responsiveness, and site speed enhancements.

Content Creation: Develop high-quality, keyword-rich content to address user intent and improve search visibility. Create a content calendar and consistently publish new content.

Link Building: Begin building a diverse backlink profile through guest posting, content promotion, and outreach efforts. Focus on acquiring high-quality, relevant backlinks to boost authority.

Year 1: Initial Growth

In the first year of actively focusing on SEO, you’ll start to see modest yet noticeable improvements in organic search traffic.

Increase in Organic Traffic: Expect to see an average increase of 11.4% in organic search traffic during the first six months. This growth reflects the initial impact of your SEO efforts as search engines begin to index and rank your optimized content.

Continued Optimization: Throughout the year, continue to refine your SEO strategies based on performance data and insights. Fine-tune keyword targeting, content quality, and user experience to maximize results.

Year 2: Accelerated Growth

By the second year, your SEO efforts should yield more significant results as your website gains traction and authority in search engine rankings.

Accelerated Traffic Growth: Experience a 9.58% increase in organic search traffic during the second six months, building upon the momentum from the first year. This growth demonstrates the compounding effects of ongoing optimization and content creation efforts.

Enhanced Visibility: With a solid foundation in place, your website’s visibility in search results will continue to improve, leading to higher rankings and increased organic traffic.

Focus on ROI: Shift your focus towards optimizing for conversions and ROI, aligning your SEO strategy with broader business objectives.

Year 3 and Beyond: Sustained Growth

In the third year and beyond, your SEO efforts will contribute to sustained growth and continued success in organic search.

Consistent Improvement: Experience a 49.4% increase in organic search traffic on average over the first year, demonstrating the long-term impact of effective SEO strategies. Focus on maintaining momentum and capitalizing on opportunities for further optimization.

Adaptation to Trends: Stay abreast of evolving SEO trends and algorithm updates to ensure your strategies remain effective. Continuously monitor performance metrics and adjust your approach as needed to stay ahead of the competition.

Long-Term Strategy: Embrace SEO as an ongoing process and invest in long-term strategies that prioritize sustainable growth and brand visibility.

By following this timeline and leveraging data-driven insights, you can set realistic expectations for SEO growth and achieve lasting success in organic search. 

Now that we’ve covered the growth timeline and the key factors influencing it, let’s delve deeper into the specific elements that shape your SEO journey.

5 Factors That Affect Your SEO Timeline

Your goals, resources, strategy, competition, and website’s history all affect your SEO timeline.

Let’s explore each factor:

Goals

Your SEO objectives set the tone for your timeline. Whether you’re aiming for improved rankings, increased organic traffic, or higher conversion rates, each goal requires a different level of commitment and duration.

Resources

The amount of time, money, and expertise you invest in SEO significantly impacts your timeline. Adequate resources enable you to execute strategies effectively and expedite progress.

Strategy

A well-defined SEO strategy is paramount for success. From keyword research to content optimization and link building, each tactic plays a crucial role in shaping your timeline.

Competition

 The level of competition within your industry influences the time it takes to achieve SEO results. In highly competitive niches, outpacing rivals and gaining prominence in search results demands extra time and effort.

Website History

The age and history of your website also play a pivotal role. New domains may require more time to establish authority and credibility, while older websites might need to address past SEO issues before witnessing significant improvements.

Understanding the factors influencing your SEO timeline provides valuable insight into your strategy. Now, let’s explore practical ways to expedite your SEO results and achieve your objectives more quickly.

4 Ways to Get SEO Results More Quickly

While SEO may require time to yield significant results, there are strategies you can employ to expedite your journey towards success. Here are four tips to help you get SEO results more quickly:

Focus on Low-Difficulty Keywords

Targeting low-difficulty keywords can lead to faster improvements in rankings. Utilize tools like Semrush’s Keyword Magic Tool to identify relevant keywords with lower keyword difficulty scores.

Tweak Pages in Positions 4-10

Pages ranking in positions 4-10 are already deemed relevant by Google. Making minor tweaks to these pages can lead to significant improvements in rankings and click-through rates.

Fix Technical SEO Errors

Conduct a comprehensive technical SEO audit to identify and resolve any issues that may be hindering your site’s performance in search results. Tools like Semrush’s Site Audit can help streamline this process.

Delete or Improve Unhelpful Content

Identify and remove or improve content that fails to meet users’ expectations. Focus on creating high-quality, informative content that resonates with your target audience.

Need a Little Help With Your SEO?

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all this SEO talk? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. After all, if Google were easy, everyone would be ranking number one!

Enter Digital Storyteller.

Our outsourced digital marketing agency is here to help create content, optimize your site, and make you more relevant to search engines on all social fronts. To develop an organic content marketing strategy with the SEO you need to make your business thrive, reach out to our diverse team of marketing experts today!

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 Why Milikowsky Tax Law Trusts Digital Storyteller

John Milikowsky, founder of Milikowsky Tax Law, has worked with marketing agencies for years—but it wasn’t until he partnered with Digital Storyteller that he saw the results he was promised.

After cycling through agencies that reported inflated conversion numbers and underdelivered on actual qualified leads, John found that what his firm truly needed was not just traffic—it was clarity of message and alignment with the right audience.

That’s where Digital Storyteller delivered.

“For six years now, Digital Storyteller has helped us refine our messaging, improve our content strategy, and attract the right clients—people who understand our value and need our expertise.”

From simplifying complex legal services into compelling website copy to creating content that resonates with sophisticated business owners, Digital Storyteller helped transform how Milikowsky Tax Law shows up online.

John summed it up best: “They understand your business and know how to write a story that actually describes what you do.”

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How to Record a Great Zoom Testimonial

girl sitting at desk on zoom

The cat’s out of the bag. Video is the hottest media source out there right now—and therefore, should be an integral part of your digital marketing strategy.

The challenge that many business owners face, however, is not having the bandwidth or the knowledge on how to record quality video without breaking the bank. (No, you don’t have to pay a professional videographer for three hours of in-person recording…)

If you want to connect with your prospects, you have to use video. So, how can you do it yourself? Here are some suggestions on how to get the most out of a video that is recorded over Zoom, in-person, or even on an iPhone:

The Set-Up

Lighting, sound, and positioning are important. Here are some valuable, simple tips regarding each element.

  1. Make sure light comes from in front of you, not behind. A big window showcasing a garden behind you might serve as a lovely Zoom backdrop, but without lighting on your face, you’ll be washed out.
  2. Give yourself some space around your head. Frame yourself from mid-bicep up with a hand’s width of headroom above your head.
  3. Sit a little lower than the camera. There is a reason selfies are always up at a 45º angle—and while that’s a little extreme, a shot from below is rarely flattering.
  4. Give yourself some depth of field. Leave room behind you, it’s visually more interesting than a blank wall a foot behind you.
  5. When possible, forego the zoom background for something real. Unless you have piles of boxes or a messy bed, a real background looks better. Not going to work for you, we recommend one of these virtual zoom backgrounds. (Plus, they’re free!)
  6. If you have a lavalier mic or a stationary mic, use it. If you don’t, make sure the birds chirping, car horns tooting, and leaf blower blowing in the background is as muted as possible.

The Attire

Dress to the nines! Well, not quite to the nines… But you should certainly look presentable!

The Trunk Club recommends that you choose your meeting wardrobe the same as you would for an in-person work meeting or job interview.

Dress and prepare yourself as you would if you were meeting a prospect for a 9:00 am meeting in the office. 

Men, a collared shirt; ladies, a nice top. Do your hair and—if you choose—makeup.

What to Say in a Video Testimonial

This is where we find our clients get the most tripped up. Firstly, you want to showcase happy customers and success stories of yours. Why? You can build trust in a video testimonial by discussing your ideal client’s pain points and describing how your product or service helped them.

Here are a few examples of what to say in a video testimonial:

Start with your name, your company, and a brief description of what you do. For example: “Hi, I’m John Doe, founder of Awesome Company and we are a full-service Original Equipment Manufacturer located in Orange County, CA.”

State the “before.” “When we first met Brent at Innovative Capital, we had been looking for financing for a large equipment purchase to increase our manufacturing capacity in our Santa Ana Warehouse.”

State the problem.“We’d been to our regular business bank but, because of other debt and a sharp downturn in 2020 revenue, we were not able to secure the funds the old-fashioned way.”

Explain what the person you’re doing the video testimonial for offers. “We were referred to Innovative Capital by our Bank to help out. They said that Brent knew all about any kind of lending that you can think of.”

Tell the solution. “The whole process took about five weeks from the first meeting to funding. First, they got a ton of information about the company, historical and projected data, and put together a package that he was able to bring to a number of different lending institutions and funds… We couldn’t believe it when he came back with four options each with varying terms and rates after just 10 days.”

Explain how the solution helped you. “Without his help we would have spent countless hours going to banks, jumping through hoops only to get a loan that we couldn’t possibly benchmark against other offers. Brent helped us review the terms and rates and choose the funding source that suited our needs best.”

Share the final result—how did it impact your life and/or business? “We probably saved the business by getting this done so fast.”

How Long Should a Video Testimonial Be? 

No more than three minutes. We believe 90 seconds is best!

Final Tips for Recording Your Video Testimonial

  1. Know what you’re going to say but do NOT write a script. Actors spend a lifetime getting really good at seeming natural while saying memorized lines. The truth is, you will not seem natural and, since this is a genuine message, authenticity is important. 
  2. Make notes, don’t write a script. It’s OK to look down, but do not look off of the screen where your camera sits.
  3. Talk to someone specific.
  4. Don’t look at yourself in the camera. We can tell when people are looking at themselves.
  5. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Don’t record a ton of takes. If you stumble, that’s OK. That’s how people talk in real life (and we want you to come off like a real person, not a perfect, shiny robot!)
  6. It’s not that deep. It shouldn’t hurt, take forever, or be super stressful. 
  7. Have fun! Tell a short story and say thank you. Know that video helps people connect with businesses by increasing trust and reducing stranger danger.
  8. BEWARE OF THE BAD CAMERA ANGLE… Here, our kick*ss Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Amanda Rogers, is here to demonstrate…

A Final Word

There you have it! All of the tools to set yourself up for success when recording a Zoom testimonial for prospective customers to view. Interested in learning more? Read on to hear about the variety of different video types available for your business to record.

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Top 5 Things You Should Be Doing on Social Media as a B2B Business

We’ll be honest: you need social media to survive in business today. But here’s the thing—just having a profile doesn’t automatically translate to results. If you’re wondering why your social media presence isn’t moving the needle, you’re not alone. It’s time to stop guessing and start taking action with purpose. 

 Here are the top 5 things you should be doing to actually make social media work for you.

1. Follow and Actually Engage with Your Clients’ Company Pages and Personal Profiles on LinkedIn

Following your clients’ company pages and personal profiles on LinkedIn isn’t enough. Yeah, sure, you’ve clicked that “follow” button, but what now? It’s time to actually engage. Not just passively scroll through their updates like some kind of LinkedIn lurker, but really show up. Like their posts, drop a thoughtful comment, share their articles, and start meaningful conversations.

Listen, when you engage with clients and their stakeholders online, you’re showing them that you care. You’re not just some faceless company that does business with them—you’re a partner. By engaging consistently, you’re also staying on their radar and proving that you’re more than just a name on a contract.

Not sure where to start with LinkedIn? Check out our Guide to LinkedIn, right here.

2. Get Specific About What You Do

There’s this misconception that being super vague about your services is a good strategy, but it’s not. If you want people to actually understand what you do, you need to get specific. No one’s going to guess what you offer by skimming your LinkedIn bio. Make sure you’re crystal clear about your niche, and if they’re interested, they’ll know exactly how you can help them.

You’re not going to alienate people by being specific—what you’re doing is filtering out the people who aren’t a good fit, while helping those who are a perfect match know that you’re the person (or company) they need to connect with.

So, what does that mean? Don’t just say “We provide digital solutions.” No. Instead, say something like, “We help mid-sized B2B businesses automate their sales processes to improve lead conversion rates by 25%.” Now that sounds like something worth talking about, right? Specificity is your friend.

3. Use Video—With Captions (Seriously)

By now, you’ve heard it a thousand times—video is king. But there’s a secret ingredient you’ve got to add: captions. Why? Because most people are scrolling through their feeds in public or at work with their sound off. So, guess what? If you’re not adding captions, you’re basically sending your video into the void.

But it’s not just about adding captions for accessibility. It’s about ensuring that your message is still getting across, whether or not the sound is on. Plus, captions can make your video more engaging, especially on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, where people scroll fast and expect to grasp the main point in seconds.

Here’s the truth: people are watching, not listening. So make your videos eye-catching, get to the point quickly, and use captions to keep them engaged. The goal is to keep viewers from scrolling right past your content.

4. Be Professional, But Keep It On Brand

It’s important to show that your business is made up of real people. Social media is a great place to let your team’s personality shine—just be mindful of where you draw the line. Share behind-the-scenes moments, highlight team achievements, or give a glimpse into the work culture that makes your company unique.

But here’s the key: Don’t overdo it. No one needs to see your company’s entire retreat in Cancun, or your CEO celebrating with a margarita on a boozy boat ride. Keep it professional and purposeful. Social media is a great way to humanize your brand, but remember, you’re still here to showcase your expertise, not to become the subject of a reality TV show.

Find a balance between fun and professionalism where your audience can connect with your team on a personal level, without losing sight of what you do best.

5. Keep Your Content Consistent and Value-Driven

Consistency is key, not just in your posting schedule but in the value you provide. Make sure your content consistently aligns with the interests and needs of your audience. It’s easy to get distracted by trends, but your followers are looking for valuable, relevant insights that they can apply to their business.

Whether it’s sharing industry news, offering tips and best practices, or showcasing case studies that highlight your expertise, always aim to deliver something your audience can learn from. Think of it this way: you’re not just filling up your social media calendar—you’re building trust and positioning your business as a thought leader.

Consistency also means staying true to your brand voice and values. If your company stands for integrity, make sure that’s reflected in everything you post. Your followers should know what to expect from you every time they engage with your content.

Any Questions?

The goal of an outsourced digital marketing agency is to understand your business and your brand voice to then let the world know how awesome you are.

We start every engagement with a Brand Storytelling Session where we identify your unique brand voice. Then, our team uses bi-weekly client calls, and shared content calendars to make sure you know what’s happening.

We’ll bring you fresh ideas from our kick-a** creative team from a relationship built on trust. Because that’s the beauty of digital marketing.

For those who are interested in learning more about the difference between outsourced marketing and in-house marketing, read on here.

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Top Social Media Mistakes You’re Probably Making

Let’s face it: social media can be tricky, especially for B2B businesses. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, unsure of what’s working, or worse, unknowingly fall into bad habits that do more harm than good. 

Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Let’s break down the common mistakes and help you steer clear of them.

1. Inconsistent Posting

If your posting schedule looks like a “when I feel like it” situation, we’ve got a problem. Showing up on social media once in a while and expecting engagement is like hitting the gym once a month and wondering why you don’t have abs. Consistency is key, folks.

Consistency builds trust, and trust builds engagement. But don’t confuse “posting regularly” with “spamming people’s feeds”—nobody wants to see your brand six times a day (seriously, don’t be that account). Instead, focus on posting content that’s relevant, valuable, and tailored to your audience.

LinkedIn isn’t TikTok, so leave the dance challenges behind.

Pro tip: Get a content calendar. Tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can save you from those “Oops, I forgot to post this week” moments. Bonus: We’ve got a Guide to Scheduling Tools, right here.

2. Overloading on Hashtags

But if your posts look like a #spilled #scrabble #board, you’re doing it wrong. Did you know Instagram is phasing out the “follow hashtags” feature? Probably because no one actually follows hashtags. Do you? Yeah, we didn’t think so.

Focus on a few targeted hashtags that make sense for your industry. For example, if you’re a SaaS company, stick to #SmallBizTips or #B2BSolutions. Leave the #YOLO and #Blessed for personal accounts. (Or better yet, leave them in 2014 where they belong.)

Quality over quantity, always. No one wants to read a caption that’s half hashtags.

3. Super Long, Tall Infographics

Infographics are meant to make information digestible, not give your audience a scrolling marathon. If your graphic feels longer than a CVS receipt, it’s time to simplify. People have short attention spans—keep your visuals clear, concise, and to the point.

We’ve been there, too. Take this infographic we made a few years ago—it’s a little… ambitious. Let’s just say it could’ve done with fewer words and less scrolling. Lesson learned.

Pro tip: Break giant infographics into a series of carousel posts. Not only is it easier for your audience to follow, but it also gives you multiple pieces of content to post. Win-win!

See the difference? Compare these first few slides to the old version:

Much better, right? It captures attention without making your audience work for it. 

4. Oversharing on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is not Facebook. Say it with me: LinkedIn is not Facebook. Yes, it’s great to show personality, but oversharing about your personal life—like your divorce or your cat’s health scare—is not what people signed up for. (Unless it’s me, because I secretly live for drama. But most people? Hard pass.)

That said, a little personality can go a long way. Share stories that resonate with your audience and tie back to your business values or lessons learned. Keep it professional yet relatable.

Remember: LinkedIn is where people look for value, not drama.

5. Mistaking Spam Followers for Real Engagement

Follower count can be deceiving. If you’re benchmarking your success against accounts with 20K followers, make sure they’re legit. Bots, fake accounts, and spam followers might inflate numbers, but they won’t engage, buy, or share your content.

Having 800 real, engaged followers is worth way more than 20,000 fakes. Real followers comment, share, and actually care about your content. Build relationships, not just numbers.

6. Wasting Time on X (Twitter)

Unless your target audience consists of journalists, politicians, or people who are weirdly into celebrity feuds, Twitter—sorry, X— might not be worth your time. We have to admit: for most B2B businesses, X isn’t the powerhouse platform it used to be. 

So, why bother? There are platforms that are far more conducive to reaching the audience you actually care about, like LinkedIn or Instagram, where professionals are actively engaging, networking, and sharing valuable content.

Instead: Redirect your precious time and energy into creating thought-provoking, share-worthy posts on LinkedIn. Engage with people who actually want to hear from you. It’s a far better investment of your time than trying to stand out in the noise on X. Trust us, your followers will thank you.

OK, Now You Know What Not to Do…

Avoiding these mistakes is a solid first step in leveling up your social media game. But we’re not leaving you hanging. We’ve got the answers to the burning question: “What should I actually be doing on social media to make it work for my B2B business?”

Good news: we’ve got a guide for that too. 

Click here for the Top XX Things You Should Be Doing on Social Media as a B2B Business.

Any Questions?

The goal of an outsourced digital marketing agency is to understand your business and your brand voice to then let the world know how awesome you are.

We start every engagement with a Brand Storytelling Session where we identify your unique brand voice. Then, our team uses bi-weekly client calls, and shared content calendars to make sure you know what’s happening.

We’ll bring you fresh ideas from our kick-a** creative team from a relationship built on trust. Because that’s the beauty of digital marketing.

For those who are interested in learning more about the difference between outsourced marketing and in-house marketing, read on here.

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15 Essential Questions to Ask Your Web Developer

Your website is often the first impression your customers or clients have of your brand, and we all know how important first impressions can be. But it’s not just about having a site that looks good—it’s about ensuring everything runs smoothly, is optimized for search engines, and delivers a top-notch user experience.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed? That’s where your web developer or manager comes in. Asking the right questions can make all the difference. 

Here are 15 thoughtful questions to help ensure your website is performing at its best. Let’s dive in. 

1. Have You Checked the Entire Site for Broken Links?

Broken links are more than an annoyance; they damage your credibility and can negatively affect your SEO. Regularly clicking through your website ensures everything leads to the right place. You can also use tools like Google Search Console or Broken Link Checker to make this process faster and more thorough.

Why it matters:

  • Visitors lose trust when they hit dead links.
  • Google may penalize you for poor user experience.

Pro Tip: Keep a list of key external links and update them quarterly to avoid surprises.

2. Are All Mentions of Covid-19 Removed?

Outdated references, like COVID-19 policies, can make your site look stale. If you had banners, announcements, or landing pages dedicated to pandemic-specific services, review them to ensure they’re still relevant—or remove them altogether.

Why it matters:

  • Modern customers expect up-to-date content.
  • Stale content can impact your brand’s image.

3. Are All Names, Alt Tags, and Metadata Accurate? 

Alt tags are vital for both accessibility and SEO. Make sure every image has a clear, descriptive tag that conveys its purpose. For example, “team-meeting.jpg” might become “Employees collaborating during a team meeting.” Similarly, check your meta descriptions and title tags for consistency and accuracy.

Why it matters:

  • Alt tags make your site accessible to users with disabilities.
  • Proper metadata improves your visibility in search results.

4. Are You Using the Yoast SEO Plugin Effectively?

Yoast SEO is a powerful tool for optimizing your site, but it only works if set up correctly. Ensure it’s being used to implement schema markup (which helps search engines understand your content) and optimize keywords and readability.

Why it matters:

  • Better schema markup can lead to rich search results (like FAQs or star ratings).
  • Yoast helps maintain SEO best practices across your pages.

5. Is the Footer Page Set to No-Follow, No-Index?

Many websites include footer links to pages like privacy policies or terms and conditions. These pages don’t add value to search engines and can dilute your SEO efforts. Confirm they’re tagged as no-follow and no-index.

Why it matters:

  • It prevents irrelevant pages from appearing in search results.
  • It strengthens the focus on your high-value content.

6. Are Template Pages from the Website Theme Showing Up?

Default template pages from your website’s theme (like “sample page”) should never be live or indexed by search engines. Ensure your developer deletes or blocks these placeholder pages.

Why it matters:

  • Indexed template pages confuse search engines.
  • They make your site appear unfinished.

7. Do Key Stakeholders Have Their Own Pages?

If you have team leaders, board members, or important contributors, dedicating a page to each person can enhance credibility and make it easier for visitors to find relevant information.

Why it matters:

  • Personalized pages highlight your team’s expertise.
  • They’re great for SEO if optimized with keywords related to each individual’s role.

8. Are Categories and Tags Being Indexed?

Indexing blog categories or tags may seem harmless, but Google can see this as duplicate content. For example, if your blog is tagged with “Marketing Tips” and categorized under “Digital Marketing,” both might show similar posts, triggering duplicate content penalties.

Why it matters:

  • Prevents unnecessary duplication in search results.
  • Protects your site’s ranking from Google penalties.

9. Are Placeholder or Unfinished Pages Being Indexed?

Pages with “Coming Soon” text or placeholder content shouldn’t be accessible or indexed. They offer no value and can harm your SEO rankings.

Why it matters:

  • Placeholder content looks unprofessional.
  • It signals to search engines that your site isn’t ready.

Pro Tip: Use a password-protected staging site to preview incomplete pages instead of publishing them live.

10. Are URLs Clean and Date-Free?

A clean URL structure is critical for both user experience and SEO. Avoid URLs that include dates (like “/2024/01/”) or numbers (“top-5-tips”) as they can quickly become outdated. Instead, opt for timeless, descriptive URLs like “/website-management-tips.”

Why it matters:

  • Clean URLs improve click-through rates.
  • They’re easier to remember and share.

11. Are Reposted Blogs Updated with Fresh Dates?

When you republish old blog content, it’s essential to change the posting date to signal its relevance to search engines. However, the update should go beyond just the date—add new insights, statistics, or examples to make it worthwhile for readers.

Why it matters:

  • Google prioritizes fresh content.
  • Updated blogs can attract new traffic without creating brand-new content.

12. Have You Checked Domain Authority Before Migrating?

Before switching domain names, compare the domain authority (DA) of your current and potential new domains. A sudden drop in DA can negatively impact your SEO, so plan your migration carefully.

Why it matters:

  • Protects the SEO equity you’ve built.
  • Minimizes traffic loss during the transition.

Pro Tip: Use tools like Moz or Ahrefs to check domain authority.

13. Are Deleted Pages Redirected?

Never delete a page without setting up a redirect. Redirects ensure that visitors and search engines are guided to the next most relevant page, keeping traffic flowing smoothly.

Why it matters:

  • Prevents 404 errors, which frustrate users.
  • Helps preserve SEO rankings for the deleted page.

14. Do You Have a Custom 404 Page?

No matter how carefully you manage your site, users will occasionally land on 404 pages. Make the most of these moments with a custom page that includes helpful navigation links or redirects to your blog.

Why it matters:

  • Keeps users engaged instead of losing them.
  • Reflects your brand’s tone and personality.

15. Are Stakeholders Actively Involved?

Your website isn’t just a technical asset—it’s a reflection of your organization. Key stakeholders (like team leaders or executives) should periodically review the site to ensure it aligns with your brand’s goals and messaging.

Why it matters:

  • Fresh perspectives can spot overlooked issues.
  • Helps align your website with business objectives.

Final Notes

Managing a website is a continuous process. By asking these 15 questions, you can catch potential problems early, ensure a polished user experience, and improve your site’s search engine performance. Regularly revisiting these areas with your web developer ensures your website stays up-to-date, functional, and aligned with your goals. After all, a well-maintained website isn’t just good for SEO—it’s good for your audience and your bottom line.

Need a Little Help With Your Website?

At Digital Storyteller, we recognize that these changes might be beyond your team’s expertise. We know, it’s a lot of work—which is why we’re here to help.Contact our team at Digital Storyteller today to learn more about how we can support your upcoming website design

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7 SEO Challenges (And How to Overcome Them)

Let’s be real: SEO can feel like trying to win a race while the finish line keeps moving. It’s not easy, and there’s no magic formula. From getting your boss to understand why SEO is important, to keeping up with Google’s ever-changing mood swings, SEO presents plenty of roadblocks. 

But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this blog, we’re breaking down the biggest SEO headaches you’ll face and offering up some simple, actionable tips to help you tackle them head-on. So grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of SEO challenges (and how to kick them to the curb).

1. Getting Buy-In From Stakeholders

SEO can work wonders for business, but getting your higher-ups on board is often easier said than done. Why? Because results take time, and some people just don’t get how SEO makes an impact.

How to Overcome It 

Here’s your strategy: Speak their language. Talk about how SEO impacts things like revenue, customer acquisition, and market share. Show how your efforts align with business goals (who doesn’t love a good business goal?).

Give them a timeline and measurable KPIs (key performance indicators) like organic traffic growth, keyword rankings, and conversions. These are numbers they can get behind.

And hey, if all else fails, point to the competition. We’ll be honest: your competitors are likely optimizing their websites (and you should be too). Don’t believe us? You can use a tool like SEMrush to check it out.

2. Keeping Up With Google Algorithm Updates

Google’s algorithm updates feel like that friend who’s constantly changing their mind. You think you’ve got it figured out, and then—bam—another update rolls through. These changes impact your SEO strategy and can make or break your search visibility.

How to Overcome It 

Stay ahead of the game by following reputable SEO news sources like Search Engine Land or Google’s own Search Central Blog. When a new update drops, keep an eye on your site’s performance. Drops in traffic or rankings could signal that the update has affected you.

Use Google Search Console or Semrush’s Position Tracking tool to keep tabs on how things are shifting. Pro tip: Set up alerts to track keyword rankings in real time, so you’re never caught off guard.

Don’t panic when things dip! Give it a few days to see if the fluctuation is temporary. If it doesn’t bounce back, take action. Identify the pages that took a hit and compare them to the pages now outranking you. Review Google’s guidelines for the latest update, revise your content, and fill in the gaps.

3. Standing Out in a Sea of Similar Content

Google search results are like a crowded party, and everyone’s shouting the same thing. You’ll find a ton of content covering the same topics, often in a very similar way. It’s like trying to stand out at a karaoke bar with the same old song everyone else is singing.

How to Overcome It You need to make your content pop—and that means offering something different. Here’s how:

  • Focus on Information Gain: Do original research, provide in-depth analysis, or include expert commentary to give your content that extra edge.
  • Find Your Unique Angle: Go beyond the basics. Offer a fresh perspective, or dive deeper into the topic. Ask, “What’s missing here, and how can I fill that gap?”
  • Satisfy the Search Intent: Answer the exact questions users are asking. If you understand what they want, your content will hit the mark.
  • Visual Appeal: A picture is worth a thousand words—so add infographics, videos, and even GIFs to keep things interesting.

4. Adapting to Zero-Click Searches

Zero-click searches are the SEO equivalent of a party crasher. Google now answers many queries directly on the SERP (Search Engine Results Page), so users don’t have to click through to your site. Goodbye organic traffic, right? Well, not necessarily.

How to Overcome It

 Zero-click searches may sound like a nightmare, but there are still ways to snag attention. Google’s AI overviews and SERP features (like featured snippets and People Also Ask boxes) are great opportunities if you know how to play the game.

For featured snippets, structure your content in a way that’s ready to be snatched up by Google. If it’s a paragraph, give a concise, direct answer. If it’s a list, use bullet points. If it’s a table, make sure it’s well-formatted and easy for Google to pull.

Don’t worry about AI overviews. Just follow Google’s regular search guidelines, and you might just get your content featured in those handy overviews.

5. Earning Quality Backlinks

Backlinks are like the currency of the SEO world. But for newer websites, it can feel like you’re a broke college student trying to find the best deals. Earning quality backlinks from trusted sites is tough, especially when bigger sites have the resources to attract them effortlessly.

How to Overcome It 

You’ve got to get creative. Create “linkable assets” that people want to link to. Think original datasets, in-depth guides, or interactive tools. These types of content are perfect for grabbing the attention of other websites that want to reference your work.

Once you have a solid resource, be proactive. Reach out to other relevant sites and tell them how your resource can benefit their audience. Tools like Semrush’s Link Building Tool can help you identify potential link opportunities.

6. Effectively Using AI

AI tools like ChatGPT are a game-changer, but let’s be real—not all SEO professionals are using them right. Sure, AI can churn out content, but often it’s generic and, let’s face it, a little boring.

How to Overcome It 

Use AI tools as a creative partner, not a content generator. For example, have AI generate a draft, but then add your own unique insights and edits. Fact-check everything (because AI is not always accurate) and make sure the content fits your brand voice. If you’re using AI for keyword research, always double-check search volumes with a tool like Semrush’s Keyword Overview.

AI can help with brainstorming, generating content outlines, or even rephrasing text to match your tone. But remember, AI is just a tool—your expertise is what makes your content shine.

7. Growing Competition

The SEO battlefield is more crowded than ever. Whether you’re in a niche market or a highly competitive industry, chances are your rivals are gunning for that top spot on Google. And they probably have bigger budgets, dedicated SEO teams, and more resources at their disposal.

How to Overcome It

 While you can’t eliminate competition, you can make sure you’re playing the game smartly. One key strategy is to focus on long-tail keywords. These more specific phrases may have lower search volume, but they also come with less competition and are easier to rank for.

Next, analyze your competitors. You can use a tool such as Semrush’s Organic Research tool to spy on their top-performing keywords and pages. If they’re ranking for keywords you haven’t targeted, it’s time to step up your content game. Create better, more relevant content, and watch those rankings rise.

Need a Little Help With Your SEO?

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all this SEO talk? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. After all, if Google were easy, everyone would be ranking number one!

Enter Digital Storyteller.

Our outsourced digital marketing agency is here to help create content, optimize your site, and make you more relevant to search engines on all social fronts. To develop an organic content marketing strategy with the SEO you need to make your business thrive, reach out to our diverse team of marketing experts today!

Any questions? Check out our guide to SEO, here.

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10 Actionable Digital Marketing Trends for 2025

Today’s B2B buyers are more informed and demanding than ever. They want transparency, personal touches, and content that’s right on target. Cold calls and vague mass emails? Those are so last decade. With information overload at an all-time high, buyers are on the lookout for genuine value.

So, how do you keep up? By embracing the trends that’ll shape digital marketing in 2025. Here’s a look at what’s coming up and how you can stay ahead of the game:

1. Rise of the Machines: AI and Automation

Say hello to your new digital coworkers! AI and automation are shaking up the marketing world and making life a whole lot easier. In 2025, expect AI to be everywhere, from chatbots that answer customer questions 24/7 to smart tools that whip up content while you take a coffee break.

Action Tip: Let AI handle the grunt work like personalizing content, fine-tuning email campaigns, and scheduling social media posts. You’ll have more time to focus on the fun stuff, like brainstorming your next big idea.

2. Hyper-Personalization at Scale

Personalization isn’t new, but the level of precision and depth is evolving. In 2025, hyper-personalization will go beyond just using a customer’s name in an email. Marketers will harness data to offer tailored content, recommendations, and product offerings based on specific buyer behaviors, preferences, and real-time actions.

Action Tip: Get serious about data analytics and CRM tools. They’ll help you keep tabs on your customers’ every move and craft experiences so personalized, your audience will feel like you’ve read their minds.

3. Video Dominance Continues

Video has been a dominant trend for years, and in 2025, it’s going to take center stage. Whether through live streams, interactive video content, or short, engaging clips, video content will be the go-to medium for B2B marketers to engage audiences and drive conversions.

Action Tip: Mix it up with product demos, customer success stories, and expert insights. And don’t forget: make sure your videos look great on mobile and across all platforms. Your audience is watching, so give them something worth their time!

4. Interactive Content Takes Off

In 2025, interactive content will be all the rage. Quizzes, polls, and calculators aren’t just fun—they keep your audience engaged and coming back for more. These interactive elements let your buyers dive in, making their experience with your brand more engaging and memorable.

Action Tip: Spice up your landing pages, email campaigns, and social media with interactive features. Not only will they keep people engaged, but they’ll also give you some great insights into what your prospects are interested in.

5. The Power of Conversational Marketing

In 2025, expect conversational marketing to become your best friend. Buyers want quick answers and genuine conversations, and AI chatbots and real-time messaging are here to deliver just that. These tools help you chat with prospects in real-time, answer their burning questions, and guide them smoothly through the sales funnel.

Action Tip: Set up chatbots on your site to tackle FAQs and steer leads to the right spots. Use conversational marketing platforms to provide personalized support that scales with your business.

6. Data Privacy Becomes a Differentiator

In 2025, keeping your data practices above board isn’t just good manners—it’s a competitive edge. With privacy regulations tightening, respecting user privacy will set you apart from the pack. Businesses that are clear about how they handle data will build trust and stand out in the crowded digital space.

Action Tip: Make sure your marketing complies with GDPR and other privacy laws. Be upfront about how you collect, use, and protect customer data to win over your audience.

7. Account-Based Marketing (ABM) Gets Smarter

Account-based marketing will remain a top strategy in 2025, but it’s going to get more intelligent. With enhanced data analytics and AI, marketers will be able to target accounts more precisely, delivering personalized content to key decision-makers at the right time.

Action Tip: Refine your ABM approach by investing in tools that allow you to segment high-value accounts, track their behaviors, and create personalized outreach plans.

8. Voice Search Optimization

Voice search is gaining momentum as more people use smart speakers and voice assistants to find information. By 2025, optimizing for voice search will be a critical part of SEO strategy. B2B buyers will increasingly rely on voice search for quick answers, so marketers need to ensure their content is ready for this shift.

Action Tip: Optimize your website content for voice search by focusing on conversational keywords and long-tail phrases that mirror how people naturally speak.

9. Social Media Becomes a B2B Powerhouse

Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even emerging platforms like TikTok are becoming key channels for B2B marketing. In 2025, social media will continue to be essential for building brand awareness, engaging with prospects, and driving thought leadership.

Action Tip: Develop a robust social media strategy that includes content sharing, influencer collaborations, and targeted advertising to reach your ideal audience.

10. Sustainability and Ethical Marketing

Buyers are becoming more socially conscious, and they want to engage with brands that reflect their values. In 2025, companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical business practices will have a competitive edge.

Action Tip: Showcase your brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical marketing by highlighting eco-friendly initiatives, social responsibility, and transparent business practices.

Final Thoughts

The future of B2B marketing is all about leveraging technology, personalizing at scale, and creating meaningful, value-driven engagement. As we move towards 2025, staying ahead of these trends will help your business attract the right customers, build trust, and drive long-term success.

Start adapting these trends into your strategy now, and you’ll be ready to thrive in the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape.

Looking for help navigating these trends?

Our team at Digital Storyteller specializes in helping businesses like yours implement cutting-edge digital marketing strategies. 

The goal of an outsourced digital marketing agency is to understand your business and your brand voice to then let the world know how awesome you are.

We start every engagement with a Brand Storytelling Session where we identify your unique brand voice. Then, our team uses bi-weekly client calls, and shared content calendars to make sure you know what’s happening.

We’ll bring you fresh ideas from our kick-a** creative team from a relationship built on trust. Because that’s the beauty of digital marketing.

For those who are interested in learning more about the difference between outsourced marketing and in-house marketing, read on here.

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WTF is SEO?

Who doesn’t love a good, long acronym, right? But what the f#$%  is SEO, and why should you care? It’s true, that people often try to sell SEO as this incredibly complex concept, but let’s break it down to its essence.

Amanda Rogers, Owner and Chief Creative Officer, and Andrew Marr, Owner, and CEO, dive into all the details in the video below:

Read on to learn what the F*#% SEO is, why you should care, and how you can use it.

First, WTF is SEO?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the process of optimizing your website and its content to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). In simpler terms, it’s about making your website more visible to users searching for relevant topics on search engines like Google.

At its core, SEO involves various techniques and strategies aimed at improving your website’s relevance, authority, and user experience. From keyword research and on-page optimization to technical SEO and link building, there are numerous factors that influence your website’s performance in search results.

Why Should You Care About SEO?

Today, nearly 93% of online experiences begin with a search engine. So, having a strong SEO strategy is essential. Here’s why:

Increased Visibility

Ranking higher in search results means more visibility for your website, leading to increased organic traffic and potential customers.

Credibility and Trust

Websites that appear at the top of search results are often perceived as more credible and trustworthy by users, boosting your brand’s reputation.

Cost-Effective Marketing

Unlike paid advertising, SEO offers long-term benefits without the ongoing costs. Once you’ve optimized your website, you can continue to attract organic traffic without additional investment.

Better User Experience

SEO isn’t just about pleasing search engines; it’s also about enhancing the user experience. By optimizing your website for SEO, you’re creating a seamless and intuitive browsing experience for your visitors.

How to Use SEO: A Practical Guide to Optimizing Your Content

So, you want to leverage SEO to enhance your online presence and attract more visitors to your website? Let’s dive into practical steps to help you maximize your SEO efforts effectively.

1. Understand the Core Concept

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, boils down to creating content that resonates with your audience and structuring it in a way that search engines can easily comprehend. It’s about writing relevant content and optimizing it for search engines to find.

2. Craft Relevant Content

Start by producing content that addresses the needs and interests of your target audience. Conduct thorough keyword research to identify the terms and phrases your audience is searching for, and incorporate them naturally into your content.

3. Organize Your Content Effectively

Structure your content with clear headings and subheadings (H1, H2, H3 tags) to enhance readability and navigation. Utilize descriptive headings to outline the main topics and key points of your content.

4. Optimize Meta Tags

Craft enticing meta titles and descriptions that accurately represent the content of your page and encourage clicks. Incorporate relevant keywords into your meta tags to improve your page’s visibility in search results.

5. Prioritize User Experience

Ensure your website offers a seamless browsing experience for visitors. Optimize page speed, enhance mobile responsiveness, and prioritize intuitive navigation to enhance user satisfaction.

6. Build Quality Backlinks

Acquire backlinks from authoritative websites within your industry to enhance your site’s credibility and authority. Focus on fostering relationships with other website owners and producing high-quality content that naturally attracts links.

7. Monitor Performance

Regularly track your website’s performance using tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Analyze key metrics such as organic traffic, keyword rankings, and conversion rates to gauge the effectiveness of your SEO strategies.

8. Stay Informed and Adaptive

Stay updated on the latest SEO trends and algorithm changes to remain competitive in the digital landscape. Continuously explore and experiment with new strategies to optimize your website’s visibility and performance.

Need a Little Help With Your SEO?

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all this SEO talk? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. After all, if Google were easy, everyone would be ranking number one!

Enter Digital Storyteller.

Our outsourced digital marketing agency is here to help create content, optimize your site, and make you more relevant to search engines on all social fronts. To develop an organic content marketing strategy with the SEO you need to make your business thrive, reach out to our diverse team of marketing experts today!

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Favorite Holiday Traditions from the Digital Storyteller Team

The holiday season is a time to unwind and celebrate with family, friends, and familiar traditions. We asked the team here at Digital Storyteller to share some of their favorite holiday rituals, and here’s what they had to say. From matching pajamas to a family baking day, these rituals make the season feel a little brighter every year. Here’s a peek into how we celebrate.

Kosche’s Family Color Theme

Kosche’s family keeps things interesting each year with a coordinated color theme. According to Kosche, “My favorite holiday tradition is that every year, my family would decide on a color that everyone would wear. Last Christmas 2023, we opted for Red and White, then the year before that we all wore pajamas.”

Taylor’s Christmas Pajamas and Family Games

Taylor shares, “Every Christmas Eve, my family unwraps a new set of pajamas, and the next morning, we wear them to open presents. After gifts and breakfast (with mimosas, of course), we head to the movies in our PJs. Later, we gather with my dad’s side of the family for a night full of food, games, and endless laughter—like blindfolding ourselves to pick up cotton balls with a spatula. It’s always a fun, unforgettable time.”

Thirdy’s Celebrations at Home

For Thirdy, the holidays revolve around family and tradition. 

He shares, “My mom’s birthday is on December 23. When I was a kid, we always celebrated her birthday with a Christmas children’s party in our front yard. My cousins, titos, titas, childhood friends, and neighbors were all invited. We enjoyed karaoke, fun games, delicious food and drinks, and gift-giving. As the years passed and the kids in our neighborhood grew up and moved away, the children’s party tradition came to an end. Nowadays, we celebrate my mom’s birthday in a more intimate setting but with the same joyous energy we had as kids. It has become my personal tradition to always come home for Christmas and New Year, despite living far away from my family. I also have the honor of cooking the Christmas ham.”

Magdi’s Christmas Eve Game Night

The holidays bring joy in many forms, and for Magdi, it’s all about laughter, games, and cherished family moments.

She shares, “One of my favorite holiday traditions is spending Christmas Eve with my dad’s side of the family, where we always have a blast playing fun, lighthearted games. Quarter Pass with dice is a classic, and it often leads to tie-breakers, doubling or even tripling the winner’s pot. When someone finally wins, they get a jackpot of money! We also play a hilarious blinded marshmallow scoop game, which can get pretty competitive. Between the laughter, jokes, and prizes, it’s impossible not to have an amazing time!”

Maddie’s Sugar Cookie Decorating

For Maddie, holiday prep isn’t complete without a cookie-decorating day.

She shares, “One of my favorite holiday traditions is baking and decorating the famous Tomasek sugar cookies. As a kid, we’d crank out dozens, spend hours decorating them with detailed designs while blasting Christmas music, and then pass them out to friends and family.

Now, as a seasoned (self-proclaimed) cookie decorator, I get to share my expert skills with my nieces and nephew—who seem to think more frosting automatically means better cookies. It’s messy, chaotic, and everything I love about the holidays.”

These holiday rituals are simple, but they add meaning and connection each year. However you celebrate, we hope this season brings you time with loved ones, good food, and a few laughs along the way.

Happy Holidays from everyone at Digital Storyteller!

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What Are Algorithms—and How Do They Work?

Algorithms

If you have social media of any kind, chances are you’ve heard people talk about “algorithms” pretty regularly. When someone posts content and it performs poorly, whether they be a business, an influencer, or your Average Joe, you might hear them blame it on the algorithm.

“Oh, the algorithm hates me… I can’t figure out the algorithm… The algorithm is always changing, I can’t keep up!” And so on and so forth.

At Digital Storyteller, we recognize that there is some truth in these statements. Algorithms are always changing. But first, what are algorithms—and how do they work?

What is an Algorithm?

While the word “algorithm” is thrown around a lot today, it can be hard to fully grasp what this term even means.

Kristien Matelski at Vizion puts it perfectly. An algorithm “is a pattern or set of rules that problem-solving operations (especially computers) use to make calculations.”

Let’s dive into what this definition means for Google and social media specifically.

The Google Algorithm

The Google algorithm is “a complex system that allows Google to find, rank and return the most relevant pages for a certain search query.”

Like we mentioned, algorithms are constantly changing. In fact, Marketing Whiz Neil Patel shares on his blog that Google makes minor changes to its algorithm daily!

Google “might even release multiple updates in 24 hours,” says Patel. “These changes are usually small, and you probably won’t notice a drop in search page rankings due to these updates alone.”

However, knowing that the algorithm can literally change overnight (and multiple times at that!), it can feel impossible to keep up. (We know our social team at Digital Storyteller works hard every day to stay fresh with new updates and trends you can’t ignore.)

Google holds over 70% of the search market share and therefore, is the most popular search engine, according to Hubspot. This considered, how can you use the algorithm to your advantage? What does the algorithm take into account when ranking content?

Well, you’re in luck! According to an explainer video posted by Google titled “How Google Search Works,” there are hundreds of factors that go into determining what pops up on a search engine. Here are a few.

  • Keywords: Keywords play a significant role in the optimization of your content. You want to ensure you’re paying close attention to the keywords you choose to use. For example, if you own a smoothie bar in downtown San Diego, you probably want to rank for “good smoothies San Diego” or “downtown San Diego smoothies,” as opposed to keywords like “pizza” and “tacos!” For more on keywords, visit our article on how to optimize your content for search.
  • Meta Descriptions: Keywords aren’t the only thing Google looks for when curating a search engine results page (SERP). Meta descriptions, sometimes called a meta description attribute or tag, “is an HTML element that describes and summarizes the contents of your page for the benefit of users and search engines,” according to WordStream. Write meta descriptions carefully, as you only get about 155 words to show off what your content is about!
  • Images and Alt Text: Google LOVES images, and so do humans! Think, if you’re looking up a recipe on how to make the ‘World’s Best Lasagna,’ would you be more likely to click on the recipe with or without photos? Alt Text, or alternative text, is also important. It’s a short written description of the image that Google can read to help rank your page.
  • Title: Your title needs to be well thought out and something people would actually search for. Your title should summarize your content and include your target keywords.
  • Meta Tags: “Meta tags are invisible tags that provide data about your page to search engines and website visitors.”
  • Backlinks: The Google algorithm also looks for backlinks. Backlinking is the action of linking back to another external site on your own and is an extremely valuable tactic to use in sharing your site content. Backlinking helps position you as a trustworthy, authoritative source. For more on backlinking, visit our blog titled “PR vs Backlinking Strategies: What’s the Difference?”
  • Site Health: A site with a score of 80% or above is typically considered “good” site health. Site health is determined by the number of errors and warnings found when your site is crawled.
  • Site Authority: Google also cares about your site authority score. Authority is built slowly over time but is determined by your site’s backlinks and organic keywords. For more on how to build your domain authority, visit our article to get the secret sauce behind improving organic search rankings.

For our friends who are interested in watching Google’s quick explainer video for more information on how Google search works, here it is.

Social Media Algorithms

So, what’s a social media algorithm? “A social media algorithm is the mathematical calculation that sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and [Snapchat] use to understand user habits and to customize the social experience,” says Matelski.

“Social media algorithms work seamlessly behind the scenes, optimizing the user experience without them knowing the system is at work.”

No two algorithms are identical but they all use similar structures to determine what content you see, to organize the way you see it, and when you see it. Here are a few elements to consider.

  • Social Signals: Social shares, likes, tweets, and pins on search engine rankings have been shown to increase SEO through several case studies. Social sharing helps boost your SEO ranking significantly if you stay consistent with organic content and ask people to share your content. For two more content marketing SEO tips, read on here.
  • Hashtags: Hashtags help categorize your content and will help users discover your business. Using hashtags in your social posts can also place your content higher in SERPs.
  • Captions: While it may be trendy to keep your captions simple (*cough cough* influencers who write one-word captions or only use emojis!), this is not the best practice for SEO and algorithm purposes. Great captions are engaging, SEO friendly, and memorable. Great captions take time and effort. Don’t underestimate the power of a great caption!
  • Video Content: We all know that video content is the number one media being pushed right now. So, get your business ready to push out some awesome video content if you haven’t already—Instagram reels, TikToks, explainer videos, testimonials, culture videos, the list goes on. Bonus tip? Use trending music in your videos to rank higher!

For those of you whose business is ready to take advantage of the benefits of video content, check out our article on Instagram Reels to learn how video content supports your social strategy.

At Digital Storyteller, digital marketing is our specialty, and we know that staying ahead of algorithms can feel like a full-time job. Whether it’s Google or social media platforms, algorithms determine how your content is ranked and seen.

Understanding and adapting to these changes is essential for success. From keywords and backlinks to hashtags and video content, each platform has its own rules—but we’re here to decode them for you.

If you’re ready to take your digital marketing to the next level, reach out to our team.

Interested in learning more? Check out our guide, The Linkedin Algorithm Explained: How to Make it Work for You, here.

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How to Use ChatGPT with Integrity: A Guide for Marketers

Whether you need a quick idea for your next campaign or want to draft content in record time, ChatGPT can seriously lighten your workload. But before you start pumping out copy faster than you can say “Is this even ethical?”, let’s chat about some important guidelines.

Think using ChatGPT is cheating? We have to disagree. At Digital Storyteller, we see it as a handy tool— if you play by the rules. We believe you can use AI with integrity and still produce authentic content that reflects your unique voice.

So, how do you make the most of this powerful tool while keeping your marketing efforts above board? Let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts of using AI responsibly. Plus, we’ll share some examples of how we use this tool ethically at our marketing company.

Avoid Plagiarism

It might be tempting to copy and paste paragraphs of what ChatGPT generates, especially when it seems to fit perfectly. 

But trust us, plagiarism isn’t just frowned upon; it’s a slippery slope that can seriously damage your credibility. When you pass off someone else’s words as your own, you risk losing the trust of your audience, who expect authenticity from you. Plagiarism can lead to severe consequences, including legal issues, professional disgrace, and more.

Instead, use ChatGPT to spark ideas, then put your spin on it. Your voice is what matters most, and your audience wants to hear from you, not a machine.

Protect Sensitive Information

When you’re using ChatGPT, remember to keep sensitive information private. Just like you wouldn’t spill the beans about your company’s secrets to a stranger, don’t share confidential data with AI. Keep your private matters private—your business will thank you!

Fact-Check Everything

Fact-check everything—yes, we mean everything. If you’ve ever seen ChatGPT flub some basic math or get a historical fact completely wrong, you know it can’t be trusted blindly. That’s why you need to fact-check everything, no exceptions.

In the marketing world, accuracy is non-negotiable. Using incorrect stats or claims can not only embarrass you but also mislead clients, and that’s a no-go. So, before you roll with whatever ChatGPT serves up, take the time to verify the facts. Trust us, a little diligence goes a long way in protecting your credibility.

Maintain Ethical Standards

Always prioritize ethics in your marketing efforts, especially when using ChatGPT. Know your company’s policies and the industry standards that apply to your work. If you’re using AI for client projects, make sure your clients are informed and agree to it.

Maintaining high ethical standards protects your reputation and builds trust in your marketing practices. Being transparent about how you use AI is essential for fostering positive relationships with clients and audiences.

Use It for Collaboration, Not Replacement

Think of ChatGPT as a helpful assistant rather than a replacement. Sure, it can generate ideas and draft content quickly, but it can’t replicate your unique insights and expertise. Your creativity is what sets your work apart, and that’s not something AI can replicate.

Use ChatGPT to enhance your work by bouncing around ideas or refining drafts, but don’t let it overshadow your own voice. The best results come when you combine your knowledge with AI-generated suggestions, ensuring your content remains authentic and engaging.

How We Use ChatGPT Ethically in Marketing

At Digital Storyteller, we like doing things efficiently. This means using ChatGPT for most members of our team – from proofreading webcopy, SEO keyword lists to brainstorming, here is how we use ChatGPT ethically.

First as a Tool, Not a Crutch

In our team, we treat ChatGPT as a helpful assistant, not a replacement for our creativity. It’s there to support us in brainstorming or refining ideas, but it won’t do our jobs for us. Our unique insights and expertise are what make our work stand out. We leverage AI for some of the legwork, but we always remain in control of the direction and outcome.

Editing and Grammar

ChatGPT is great for proofreading. It helps us polish our writing, ensuring we sound professional instead of like we’re typing with our elbows. We run our content through it to catch any typos or grammatical errors, but we always give it a final read to catch any quirks or style inconsistencies.

Brainstorming

When it comes to brainstorming, ChatGPT can generate ideas quickly and offer angles we may not have considered. A steady stream of suggestions never hurts, whether it’s for blog topics, social media post ideas, or campaign concepts. It allows us to explore various directions without getting bogged down in our usual thought patterns.

We might use it to develop themes for upcoming campaigns or to brainstorm content that aligns with current trends. While we appreciate its contributions, we ensure that our unique voices and insights shape the final output. The goal is to enhance our creative process, not to rely solely on AI-generated suggestions. In short, we treat it as a helpful resource to expand our thinking, not as a substitute for our creativity.

Data Collection and Formatting

ChatGPT can assist in organizing and formatting data to make it more digestible. By transforming raw data into clear, actionable insights, we can save time on busy work and focus on making informed decisions. While we always double-check the accuracy, having ChatGPT streamline this process allows us to prioritize strategic actions over tedious tasks.

But with ChatGPT handling the formatting, we spend less time wrestling with spreadsheets and more time making decisions.

Final Notes

Using ChatGPT with integrity is all about balancing its benefits with your commitment to ethical marketing practices. By being open, avoiding plagiarism, protecting sensitive information, and maintaining high ethical standards, you can take full advantage of what ChatGPT offers without compromising your integrity.

As you bring this tool into your marketing routine, keep in mind that it should enhance your work, not replace your personal touch. Stick to these principles, and you’ll navigate the world of AI successfully. Happy marketing!Read on to learn about the ROI of organic digital marketing (yes, it can be measured!) Then, get in touch with our team to schedule your FREE Brand Storytelling Session.

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How to Use an Organic Marketing Strategy to Build Brand Awareness

Amazon, Apple, and Google. We’re assuming you, like pretty much everyone else, know about each of the aforementioned companies. They have some of the highest global brand awareness. 

Everyone wants more brand awareness. Why? The more people who know about your brand, the more likely they are to engage with you and ultimately purchase your services or product(s). Let’s discuss more on how you can use an organic social strategy to build your brand awareness. 

What is Brand Awareness? 

Brand awareness is how consumers recognize or remember your business. The more brand awareness you have, the more people are familiar with your logo, who you are, what you do, and most importantly- your products and services. 

Why is Brand Awareness Important?

Brand awareness is a vital part of your overall marketing plan. The goal with bringing awareness to your brand is to increase the number of people who are familiar with your business. This familiarity breeds trust, which, in turn, creates deals. 

Toobla Blog says it best, “If you can build brand awareness among your target demographic, you can help your brand become top-of-mind when these consumers are ready to research and make a purchase.”

Consumers are more likely to buy from a brand they are familiar with than a brand they have never heard of. 

For more secret sauce tips on brand awareness, watch our Chief Creative officer speak more about it in the video series here. 

Now, that you’re a brand awareness expert, let’s discuss how an organic social strategy is one of the best ways to build it. 

What is an Organic Marketing Strategy?

An organic marketing strategy is essentially the opposite of paid advertising and with more benefits (woohoo!) Learn more about the difference between paid and organic social media marketing here. 

Examples of organic marketing include:

  • Blog posts optimized for SEO
  • Website (optimized) 
  • Landing Pages
  • Email campaigns
  • Eye-catching social posts
  • Articles you write for other publications or industry blogs
  • Videos you post on YouTube 
  • Instagram Reels or TikToks

All of these items combined help increase your business’ visibility digitally. When you share your organic content to social media and your website, it will be seen by the following consumers: 

  • Existing followers/clients 
  • Followers of your followers 
  • People following the hashtags or locations you mention

It’s not enough to show up online a few times, you need consistent content to help create a consistent brand message and build an engaged community. 

Inconsistent messaging confuses your audience. It makes it harder for them to understand who you are and what your business does. This inconsistency leads to a lack of trust among your audience and therefore fewer leads. 

Best practice is to choose your brand archetype and stick with it. Your audience will thank you for it.

Content that is consistent and aligned with your brand voice performs. Every time. Keep in mind that it won’t happen overnight. Be patient with the timeline because the rewards are worth it.

When working with our clients, here’s a typical timeline of what we see and when.

Read on for more information on how each media platform and what each should be used for your business.

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Outsourced VS In-House Marketing: What’s Best For Your Business?

Outsourced VS In-House Marketing: What's Best For Your Business?

So you’re wondering what type of marketing you should implement for your business? Well, you’ve come to the right place.
The two biggest types of marketing are outsourced and in-house. Both want to promote your business to the best of their ability, but they have a few big differences. Learn more about the differences between outsourced and in-house marketing below!

Read more
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Storytelling: What is it and Why is it Important?

Storytelling

It would feel morally wrong to write an article about storytelling and not tell you how our company came to be… Digital Storyteller starts with our Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Amanda Rogers.

In 1997, when the actors union was on strike, Amanda taught herself how to code from a book. (Yes, these were the days before WordPress, Squarespace, and WIX—scary times…)

Anyway, Amanda’s martial arts teacher was an 8th degree blackbelt teaching amazing Tang Soo Do in New York City—and had only five students. Amanda knew he needed a website—so she taught herself to write HTML, CSS, and Javascript to try to help him build a studio.

A year later when Amanda moved to Los Angeles, the studio was thriving. In fact, 80% of the students came to him through the website. She was hooked.

After a few twists and turns, Digital Storyteller was born—an organic digital marketing agency in Encinitas, California.

Today, the team has grown from one to nearly 15. On our team, we’ve got content specialists, social media experts, a client success manager, SEO team, as well as a website and graphic design team to continue what Amanda started.

That’s our story.
If you haven’t already recognized the importance of storytelling within a business, we’ll continue on for you. Better yet, we snagged the CEO and Owner of Digital Storyteller to chat about storytelling on camera, Andrew Marr.

What is Storytelling? 

At its core, storytelling is (you guessed it!) about telling stories. Yoast tells us that storytelling is “about using stories to engage your audience, or to make something more clear.”

As humans, we’re wired for story. From each of our early days, it’s likely we recall our parents and the people around us sharing and telling stories. We love to read books and see movies and musicals—why? Because people are addicted to stories.

But what does storytelling look like when it comes to marketing for your business? When it comes to marketing for financial services companies, we see storytelling as making what you do and the services you provide:

  • Relatable 
  • Easy to understand by your audience

Why is Storytelling Important in Marketing?

Storytelling builds trust. Here are some of the stories you can share in your marketing strategy as well as how you can share them:

  • Share your stories on your website
  • Share your origin story
  • Share how you’ve grown
  • Share the challenges your business has faced (How did you overcome these challenges? Did any positives come out?)
  • Share how you help your clients (A lot of companies don’t share how they help their clients. Come on, boast a little!)

As the old adage goes, sharing is caring… Communicating your story with your audience.

A Word of Advice from Our CEO and Owner

So, how important is it to share your company story with your digital followers? (i.e. prospects, people in similar industries, current clients, etc.)

According to Andrew, it’s extremely important if you want to build trust and if you want to build a following. We believe in the power of storytelling. In fact, we start all of our partnerships with a Brand Storytelling Session.

Picture this: You go onto a website. For ease, let’s say it’s a digital marketing agency. You’re looking at their services, considering partnering with this company but you don’t find anything about their story.

There’s nothing about their employees or how the company came to be. Does that make you want to partner with that company even more? No, of course it doesn’t. That’s not the way things go.

For those who feel like it’s weird to talk about yourself or what you bring to the table as a business, for fear of coming off as arrogant or boastful, think about it… It’s your website. That’s kind of the point! 

Let go of the taboo you were taught in grade school, that it’s bad to talk about yourself.

In business, it’s important that you share your success stories and tell people how you help them.

Lastly, share your company culture. People want to know what it’s like to work with you. People wanna know if your employees are happy. Are they going to do a great job for them if they decide to partner with you? Share stories, story after story.

Interested in learning how to build more trust with your prospects and clients? Check out this article on how pricing transparency builds trust.

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